Top Biden administration officials spent last weekend in Europe trying to soothe jitters over the prospect of U.S. military aid to Ukraine ending, assuring counterparts from Paris, Berlin and Kyiv as the war enters its third year that Washington will somehow come through.

G7 eyes Russian assets for Ukraine aid; Biden warns about 'dire consequence of inaction' on aid

The political spotlight in the US has now shifted to Michigan, where the presidential primary is now in its last leg. President Joe Biden faces protest over Gaza in the Michigan primary contest which is home to a large Arab-American population.

US: Joe Biden faces protest over Gaza | Biden competes with Trump in Michigan Primary

<p>Donald Trump and Joe Biden won&nbsp;the Republican and Democratic primaries, respectively, in the US&nbsp;state of Michigan on Tuesday (Feb 27).&nbsp; While the GOP primary was all along expected to be yet another ticker-tape parade for Trump, Biden's Democratic candidacy was shadowed by anger over his stand on the Gaza war.</p>

<h2><strong>Democratic Primary Election Results</strong></h2>

<p>Biden won 80 per cent of the vote, according to projections, but the "uncommitted" exceeded expectations with 13 per cent.</p>

<p>Uncommitted is registered when a voter votes for the party, but not the candidate on the ballot.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-warns-of-dire-ukraine-fate-in-white-house-showdown-694514">Biden warns Congress leaders of ‘dire’ Ukraine fate as govt shutdown looms</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Republican Primary Election Results</strong></h2>

<p>Trump appeared on path to win roughly 70 percent in the state’s GOP primary.</p>

<p>Trump's win will now increase the pressure on Haley to exit the race..</p>

<p>Haley, however, says that she plans to remain in it at least through the March 5 "Super Tuesday" primary, when 15 states hold nominating contests.</p>

<p>Edison Research has called the elections, projecting Joe Biden and Donald Trump as the winners for Democrats and Republicans, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The "uncommitted option"</strong></h2>

<p>Michigan, as per Reuters, offers an "uncommitted" option to test whether a named candidate has the support of the party's base.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Preliminary results showed the number of uncommitted votes is higher in the Democratic race.</p>

<p>As per media reports, activists disappointed with the US President's handling of the Gaza war initiated the "uncommitted" campaign, which had already far surpassed the protest effort's goal of 10,000-vote margin&nbsp;— in 2016,&nbsp;Trump won Michigan by this margin.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-ken-buck-calls-on-kamala-harris-to-oust-biden-for-being-too-old-incapable-694533">Republican Ken Buck calls on Kamala Harris to oust Biden for being ‘too old,’ ‘incapable’</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking to AFP news agency, Rashida Tlaib, the only Palestinian-American in Congress, said, "I was proud today to walk in and pull a Democratic ballot and vote 'uncommitted'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When 74 per cent of Democrats in Michigan support a ceasefire, yet President Biden is not hearing us, this is the way we can use our democracy to say, 'Listen — listen to Michigan'."</p>

<p>Michigan is expected to play a decisive role in the head-to-head November 5 US presidential election — a likely rematch between Biden and Trump.</p>

<p>The battleground state could swing toward either party. In their previous showdown in 2020, Biden beat Trump narrowly by just 2.8 percentage points.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Donald Trump and Joe Biden won the Republican and Democratic primaries, respectively, in the US state of Michigan on Tuesday (Feb 27). While the GOP primary was all along expected to be yet another ticker-tape parade for Trump, Biden's Democratic candidacy was shadowed by anger over his stand on the Gaza war.

Donald Trump and Joe Biden won the Republican and Democratic primaries, respectively, in the US state of Michigan on Tuesday (Feb 27). While the GOP primary was all along expected to be yet another ticker-tape parade for Trump, Biden's Democratic candidacy was shadowed by anger over his stand on the Gaza war. Democratic Primary Election Results Biden won 80 per cent of the vote, according to projections, but the "uncommitted" exceeded expectations with 13 per cent. Uncommitted is registered when a voter votes for the party, but not the candidate on the ballot. Also read | Biden warns Congress leaders of ‘dire’ Ukraine fate as govt shutdown looms Republican Primary Election Results Trump appeared on path to win roughly 70 percent in the state’s GOP primary. Trump's win will now increase the pressure on Haley to exit the race.. Haley, however, says that she plans to remain in it at least through the March 5 "Super Tuesday" primary, when 15 states hold nominating contests. Edison Research has called the elections, projecting Joe Biden and Donald Trump as the winners for Democrats and Republicans, respectively. The "uncommitted option" Michigan, as per Reuters, offers an "uncommitted" option to test whether a named candidate has the support of the party's base. Preliminary results showed the number of uncommitted votes is higher in the Democratic race. As per media reports, activists disappointed with the US President's handling of the Gaza war initiated the "uncommitted" campaign, which had already far surpassed the protest effort's goal of 10,000-vote margin — in 2016, Trump won Michigan by this margin. Also read | Republican Ken Buck calls on Kamala Harris to oust Biden for being ‘too old,’ ‘incapable’ Talking to AFP news agency, Rashida Tlaib, the only Palestinian-American in Congress, said, "I was proud today to walk in and pull a Democratic ballot and vote 'uncommitted'." "When 74 per cent of Democrats in Michigan support a ceasefire, yet President Biden is not hearing us, this is the way we can use our democracy to say, 'Listen — listen to Michigan'." Michigan is expected to play a decisive role in the head-to-head November 5 US presidential election — a likely rematch between Biden and Trump. The battleground state could swing toward either party. In their previous showdown in 2020, Biden beat Trump narrowly by just 2.8 percentage points. (With inputs from agencies)

Michigan primary elections: Joe Biden and Donald Trump win in Democratic and Republican primaries

Donald Trump has scored a victory in his fight against challenges to his eligibility to run for the White House again when Michigan's top court declined to hear a case seeking to disqualify him from the state's presidential primary ballot.

US: Biden trails Trump in Michigan in hypothetical 2024 rematch; spotlight on 1st major swing state

<p>US President Joe Biden on Monday expressed hope for a ceasefire in Gaza, which he said may happen by the beginning of next week.</p>

<p>This comes amidst escalating humanitarian concerns in the Palestinian territory. In recent days, representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the United States, and France have been mediating between Israel and Hamas, seeking to halt the violence and secure the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>The deal</strong></h2>

<p>As per an AFP report, a potential deal could involve the exchange of dozens of hostages for several hundred Palestinian detainees held by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a visit to an ice cream shop in New York City with comedian Seth Meyers, when asked about when a ceasefire might start, Biden said that his national security advisor told him "We're close, we're close, we're not done yet."&nbsp;He expressed optimism that it could be achieved by next Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-offers-plan-to-evacuate-gaza-civilians-as-netanyahu-says-rafah-offensive-vital-for-total-victory-693822">Israel Army offers plan to evacuate Gaza civilians as Netanyahu says Rafah offensive vital for 'total victory'</a></strong></p>

<p>"My hope is by next Monday we'll have a ceasefire," Biden said.</p>

<p>Previously, on Sunday, talking to CNN, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan revealed that during the meeting in Paris, representatives from several parties, not including Gaza rulers Hamas, "came to an understanding... about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like."</p>

<p>Additionally, "experts" from Egypt, Qatar, and the US met in Doha for talks attended by Israeli and Hamas representatives, hoping to secure a truce before the onset of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | ICJ hears final arguments on Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icj-hears-final-arguments-on-israeli-occupation-of-palestinian-territories-694151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>What Israel and Hamas said</strong></h2>

<p>However, talking to AFP, a Hamas source revealed that while "some new amendments" were proposed on contentious issues, "Israel did not present any substantive position on the terms of the ceasefire and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip."</p>

<p>While the group is insisting on the withdrawal of Israeli forces, this demand has been dismissed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "delusional". Instead, he has been adamant that a ceasefire, if reached, will only delay an incursion into Rafah.</p>

<p>In an interview with CBS Sunday, Netanyahu said that a ground invasion of Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city, would put Israel within weeks of "total victory" over Hamas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-satellite-images-show-uk-ship-rubymar-abandoned-in-red-sea-after-houthi-missile-strike-693847">Middle East crisis: Satellite images show leaking UK ship Rubymar abandoned in Red Sea after Houthi attack</a></strong></p>

<p>"If we have a (truce) deal, it will be delayed somewhat, but it will happen," he said, adding, "It has to be done because total victory is our goal and total victory is within reach -- not months away, weeks away, once we begin the operation."</p>

<p>However,&nbsp;aid organisations and foreign governments have repeatedly expressed fears that a ground invasion of Rafah will inflict mass casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden on Monday expressed hope for a ceasefire in Gaza, which he said may happen by the beginning of next week. This comes amidst escalating humanitarian concerns in the Palestinian territory.

US President Joe Biden on Monday expressed hope for a ceasefire in Gaza, which he said may happen by the beginning of next week. This comes amidst escalating humanitarian concerns in the Palestinian territory. In recent days, representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the United States, and France have been mediating between Israel and Hamas, seeking to halt the violence and secure the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The deal As per an AFP report, a potential deal could involve the exchange of dozens of hostages for several hundred Palestinian detainees held by Israel. During a visit to an ice cream shop in New York City with comedian Seth Meyers, when asked about when a ceasefire might start, Biden said that his national security advisor told him "We're close, we're close, we're not done yet." He expressed optimism that it could be achieved by next Monday. Also read | Israel Army offers plan to evacuate Gaza civilians as Netanyahu says Rafah offensive vital for 'total victory' "My hope is by next Monday we'll have a ceasefire," Biden said. Previously, on Sunday, talking to CNN, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan revealed that during the meeting in Paris, representatives from several parties, not including Gaza rulers Hamas, "came to an understanding... about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like." Additionally, "experts" from Egypt, Qatar, and the US met in Doha for talks attended by Israeli and Hamas representatives, hoping to secure a truce before the onset of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Watch | ICJ hears final arguments on Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories What Israel and Hamas said However, talking to AFP, a Hamas source revealed that while "some new amendments" were proposed on contentious issues, "Israel did not present any substantive position on the terms of the ceasefire and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip." While the group is insisting on the withdrawal of Israeli forces, this demand has been dismissed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "delusional". Instead, he has been adamant that a ceasefire, if reached, will only delay an incursion into Rafah. In an interview with CBS Sunday, Netanyahu said that a ground invasion of Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city, would put Israel within weeks of "total victory" over Hamas. Also read | Middle East crisis: Satellite images show leaking UK ship Rubymar abandoned in Red Sea after Houthi attack "If we have a (truce) deal, it will be delayed somewhat, but it will happen," he said, adding, "It has to be done because total victory is our goal and total victory is within reach -- not months away, weeks away, once we begin the operation." However, aid organisations and foreign governments have repeatedly expressed fears that a ground invasion of Rafah will inflict mass casualties. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Biden expresses hope, says a ceasefire may happen 'by next Monday'

Biden makes appearance on 'Late Night With Seth Meyers' for interview. Pressed by Meyers about calls for an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war, Biden said, "There is a path forward, with difficulty," and he commented on the ongoing hostage situation.

Biden sits down with TV comic Meyers to woo voters

<p>Nearly half of Democrat voters do not want US President Joe Biden to go into a run-in with his predecessor Donald Trump for the keys to the White House, come November, a new poll has revealed. Instead, the Democrats want former first lady Michelle Obama to replace him as the party's frontrunner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poll survey data released by&nbsp;Rasmussen Reports on Monday (Feb 26) shows&nbsp;that about 48 per cent of Democrats approve of the party&nbsp;“finding another candidate to replace Joe Biden before the election in November", compared to 38 per cent who disapprove.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, only 33 per cent believe that such a ballot shakeup, this late in the presidential campaign was likely to happen.</p>

<p>The poll conducted on 960 voters found little consensus on who should replace Biden on the ballot but Obama, 60, led with 20 per cent of respondents voting for her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She emerged as the leading candidate amongst the likes of Vice President Kamala Harris, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, “none of the above” and “not sure”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433"><strong>Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>A difficult climb for Biden</strong></h2>

<p>At least 12 per cent of Democrats said they were game for a possible rematch of the 2016 presidential race when Clinton squared up against Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Republican Senator Ted Cruz had argued in September last year that Obama might be "parachuted in" at the&nbsp;Democratic National Convention and announced as the&nbsp;party’s nominee for president in place of Biden.</p>

<p>Despite Obama's repeated insistence that she wants to remain away from politics, her name keeps popping up - leading to routine speculations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hypocrisy-us-president-joe-biden-joins-tiktok-to-power-re-election-campaign-689374"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Hypocrisy? US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign joins TikTok even as govt cracks down on app</strong></a></p>

<p>With US presidential elections scheduled for November, the war of words has intensified between Biden and Trump. While the Republican nomination seeker is breaking all records in the primaries and caucuses, his Democrat counterpart has been witnessing a severe dip in approval ratings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Gallup poll revealed that Biden has less approval than all recent presidential incumbents. The poll results showed that only 38 per cent of respondents felt that Biden deserved a second term as US president.&nbsp;His predecessor, former US president Donald Trump had an approval rating of 50 per cent in January 2020, the beginning of the election year last time.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nearly half of Democrat voters do not want US President Joe Biden to go into a run-in with his predecessor Donald Trump for the keys to the White House, come November, a new poll has revealed.

Nearly half of Democrat voters do not want US President Joe Biden to go into a run-in with his predecessor Donald Trump for the keys to the White House, come November, a new poll has revealed. Instead, the Democrats want former first lady Michelle Obama to replace him as the party's frontrunner. The poll survey data released by Rasmussen Reports on Monday (Feb 26) shows that about 48 per cent of Democrats approve of the party “finding another candidate to replace Joe Biden before the election in November", compared to 38 per cent who disapprove. However, only 33 per cent believe that such a ballot shakeup, this late in the presidential campaign was likely to happen. The poll conducted on 960 voters found little consensus on who should replace Biden on the ballot but Obama, 60, led with 20 per cent of respondents voting for her. She emerged as the leading candidate amongst the likes of Vice President Kamala Harris, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, “none of the above” and “not sure”. Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill A difficult climb for Biden At least 12 per cent of Democrats said they were game for a possible rematch of the 2016 presidential race when Clinton squared up against Trump. Notably, Republican Senator Ted Cruz had argued in September last year that Obama might be "parachuted in" at the Democratic National Convention and announced as the party’s nominee for president in place of Biden. Despite Obama's repeated insistence that she wants to remain away from politics, her name keeps popping up - leading to routine speculations. Also read | Hypocrisy? US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign joins TikTok even as govt cracks down on app With US presidential elections scheduled for November, the war of words has intensified between Biden and Trump. While the Republican nomination seeker is breaking all records in the primaries and caucuses, his Democrat counterpart has been witnessing a severe dip in approval ratings. A Gallup poll revealed that Biden has less approval than all recent presidential incumbents. The poll results showed that only 38 per cent of respondents felt that Biden deserved a second term as US president. His predecessor, former US president Donald Trump had an approval rating of 50 per cent in January 2020, the beginning of the election year last time. (With inputs from agencies)

Almost half of Democrats don't want Joe Biden in presidential race, reveals poll

With a sweeping of early states under his belt, the former president is speeding toward the Republican nomination. Nikki Haley, though, declared she was going to keep fighting. The former president has emerged victorious in all of the GOP nominating contests held so far. Watch to know more!

US Elections 2024: Donald Trump wins South Carolina Primary, defeats Haley in her home state

<p>Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years&nbsp;and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Better positions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A Russian defence military report said that its troops had pushed back Ukrainian forces near Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka, villages south of Bakhmut.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-rare-admission-says-31000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-war-with-russia-693799">Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia, pegs Moscow casualties at 180,000</a></strong></p>

<p>"In the Donetsk direction, units of the Southern grouping of troops improved the situation along the front line and defeated formations of the 22nd, 28th and 92nd mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka."</p>

<p>It also said that the nation's troops had taken better positions near Avdiivka.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-makes-crucial-advances-in-ukraine-pushes-further-in-west-693312/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"In the Avdiivka direction, units of the Centre group of forces occupied more advantageous lines and positions, and also defeated manpower and equipment of the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the 107th Air Defence Brigade."</p>

<p>As per the ministry, the Russian forces had repelled seven Ukrainian counterattacks in the area. In the process, 77 of Kyiv's drones were destroyed, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's report</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine, on the other hand, made no mention of Russian gains in the Donetsk region in its report. However, it noted clashes around Avdiivka, which was reportedly captured by Russian forces last week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-presidential-election-early-voting-begins-in-occupied-ukrainian-region-of-zaporizhzhia-693789">Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia</a></strong></p>

<p>In its evening report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said that the embattled nation's forces had repelled 18 attacks near Avdiivka. A Reuters report also said that five Russian attacks had been beaten back near Bakhmut, referring to Klishchiivka, Kurdiumivka and other localities.</p>

<p>Just last Tuesday, Putin said Russian troops would push further into Ukraine to build on their success after the fall of Avdiivka — Moscow's biggest gain in recent days — where he said Ukrainian troops had fled in chaos.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine.

Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine. Better positions A Russian defence military report said that its troops had pushed back Ukrainian forces near Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka, villages south of Bakhmut. Also read | Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia, pegs Moscow casualties at 180,000 "In the Donetsk direction, units of the Southern grouping of troops improved the situation along the front line and defeated formations of the 22nd, 28th and 92nd mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka." It also said that the nation's troops had taken better positions near Avdiivka. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West × "In the Avdiivka direction, units of the Centre group of forces occupied more advantageous lines and positions, and also defeated manpower and equipment of the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the 107th Air Defence Brigade." As per the ministry, the Russian forces had repelled seven Ukrainian counterattacks in the area. In the process, 77 of Kyiv's drones were destroyed, it added. Ukraine's report Ukraine, on the other hand, made no mention of Russian gains in the Donetsk region in its report. However, it noted clashes around Avdiivka, which was reportedly captured by Russian forces last week. Also read | Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia In its evening report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said that the embattled nation's forces had repelled 18 attacks near Avdiivka. A Reuters report also said that five Russian attacks had been beaten back near Bakhmut, referring to Klishchiivka, Kurdiumivka and other localities. Just last Tuesday, Putin said Russian troops would push further into Ukraine to build on their success after the fall of Avdiivka — Moscow's biggest gain in recent days — where he said Ukrainian troops had fled in chaos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia claims its troops have advanced to better positions in Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk

As 40 per cent of the world's population are casting their vote in 2024 recent incidents have once again raised concerns about the misuse of AI-powered technology. Bad actors are using videos to deceive people, spread misinformation and influence public opinion.

AI deepfakes pose threat to elections worldwide

Steve Kramer, a veteran Democratic operative, admitted to being behind the fake robocalls of US President Joe Biden that were made to New Hampshire voters last month. Watch in for more details!

US: Democratic operative admits to being behind fake Biden robocall

US: Steve Kramer admits to orchestrate fake Biden robocall

U.S. and British forces carried out a new round of strikes in Yemen, targeting a Houthi underground storage site as well as missile and surveillance capabilities used by the Iran-aligned group against Red Sea shipping, the Pentagon said.

US, UK retaliate to surge in Red Sea attacks by Yemen's Houthis, strikes target their Air Defence

In January what authorities believe might be the first known attempt to use AI to interfere with the US election, thousands of people in the US received a robocall. The robocall used fake audio of US President Joe Biden asking voters to save their ballot for the general election scheduled to take place in November. While the authorities have issued cease and desist orders to two Texas companies. A New Orleans magician named Paul Carpenter has come forward to take responsibility for the same.

Magician responsible for AI-generated Joe Biden calling voters

<p>Veteran political consultant Steve Kramer has admitted to commissioning a robocall that impersonated President Joe Biden using artificial intelligence (AI). The call, which appealed to&nbsp;New Hampshire&nbsp;voters&nbsp;to not vote in the presidential primary&nbsp;and save their votes for the general elections to be held in November,&nbsp;sparked investigations and backlash from election officials and watchdogs.</p>

<p>Not just the US, in the UK as well there is concern over AI-generated content. Recently, voicing concern over AI generated deepfakes, James Cleverly, the UK home secretary during a recent interview, warned that criminals and "malign actors" working on behalf of malicious states like Russia and Iran could these to hijack the general election.</p>

<p>Speaking to the Times, he said that "The era of deepfake and AI-generated content to mislead and disrupt is already in play".</p>

<h2><strong>A revolutionary hero?</strong></h2>

<p>In a conversation with NBC News, Kramer, who was reportedly working for a rival Biden candidate, expressed no remorse for the deepfake call. Instead, he compared himself to American Revolutionary heroes Paul Revere and Thomas Paine and claimed that he had planned the call as an act of civil disobedience to highlight the dangers of AI in politics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a way for me to make a difference, and I have," he said, adding "For $500, I got about $5 million worth of action, whether that be media attention or regulatory action."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ai-scare-for-us-elections-fake-robocall-imitating-biden-asks-voters-not-to-vote-in-new-hampshire-primary-682665">AI scare for US elections? Fake robocall imitating Biden asks voters not to vote in New Hampshire primary</a></strong></p>

<p>He asserted that the call, which he planned from the start, had nothing to do with his client, Biden's long-shot primary challenger, Dean Phillips, the Democratic representative from Minnesota.</p>

<p>The call, made to over 5,000 New Hampshire voters, was reportedly part of Kramer's strategy to draw attention to AI's potential misuse in politics. He acknowledged facing potential legal consequences but said he remained committed to working in politics.</p>

<p>As per the report, he said he has received a subpoena from the Federal Communications Commission, and said he suspected that he might get sued by a half-dozen people and could even face jail time.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Fake Joe Biden robocall told voters to stay home for primary election</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fake-joe-biden-robocall-told-voters-to-stay-home-for-primary-election-682749/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Kramer confirmed that he hired a Texas telemarketing company, Life Co,&nbsp;to distribute the calls, but said they were unaware of the call's content before delivery.</p>

<p>"They had no knowledge of the content of this call prior to delivery," Kramer wrote in his statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'd use them again, but they are done with my business."</p>

<h2><strong>Street magician was the voice of Biden robocall</strong></h2>

<p>Paul Carpenter, a New Orleans street magician, created the AI-generated audio file replicating Biden's voice for the robocall. He read from a script provided to him by Kramer. Carpenter, paid $150 for the work, believed Kramer was working for the Biden campaign.</p>

<p>The call, Kramer stated, aimed to provoke regulatory action and raise awareness about AI's misuse.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-allegedly-a-us-air-force-member-sets-himself-on-fire-outside-israeli-embassy-in-washington-dc-693816">Man, allegedly a US Air Force member, sets himself on fire outside Israeli embassy in Washington, DC</a></strong></p>

<p>"Even individuals acting alone can quickly and easily use AI for misleading and disruptive purposes," he said.</p>

<p>Authorities in New Hampshire are investigating the call for potential violations of state laws against voter suppression laws, and the Federal Communications Commission has reportedly accelerated plans to outlaw AI robocalls in response to the Biden robocall.</p>

<p>Kramer's admission comes after NBC News linked him to the fake Biden robocall. He revealed that he also commissioned an earlier deepfake robocall impersonating Senator Lindsey Graham as a test, which received a significantly higher response rate than an automated call.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Veteran political consultant Steve Kramer has admitted to commissioning a robocall that impersonated President Joe Biden using artificial intelligence (AI). The call, which appealed to New Hampshire voters to not vote in the presidential primary and save their votes for the general elections to be held in November, sparked investigations and backlash from election officials and watchdogs.

Veteran political consultant Steve Kramer has admitted to commissioning a robocall that impersonated President Joe Biden using artificial intelligence (AI). The call, which appealed to New Hampshire voters to not vote in the presidential primary and save their votes for the general elections to be held in November, sparked investigations and backlash from election officials and watchdogs. Not just the US, in the UK as well there is concern over AI-generated content. Recently, voicing concern over AI generated deepfakes, James Cleverly, the UK home secretary during a recent interview, warned that criminals and "malign actors" working on behalf of malicious states like Russia and Iran could these to hijack the general election. Speaking to the Times, he said that "The era of deepfake and AI-generated content to mislead and disrupt is already in play". A revolutionary hero? In a conversation with NBC News, Kramer, who was reportedly working for a rival Biden candidate, expressed no remorse for the deepfake call. Instead, he compared himself to American Revolutionary heroes Paul Revere and Thomas Paine and claimed that he had planned the call as an act of civil disobedience to highlight the dangers of AI in politics. "This is a way for me to make a difference, and I have," he said, adding "For $500, I got about $5 million worth of action, whether that be media attention or regulatory action." Also read | AI scare for US elections? Fake robocall imitating Biden asks voters not to vote in New Hampshire primary He asserted that the call, which he planned from the start, had nothing to do with his client, Biden's long-shot primary challenger, Dean Phillips, the Democratic representative from Minnesota. The call, made to over 5,000 New Hampshire voters, was reportedly part of Kramer's strategy to draw attention to AI's potential misuse in politics. He acknowledged facing potential legal consequences but said he remained committed to working in politics. As per the report, he said he has received a subpoena from the Federal Communications Commission, and said he suspected that he might get sued by a half-dozen people and could even face jail time. Watch | Fake Joe Biden robocall told voters to stay home for primary election Kramer confirmed that he hired a Texas telemarketing company, Life Co, to distribute the calls, but said they were unaware of the call's content before delivery. "They had no knowledge of the content of this call prior to delivery," Kramer wrote in his statement. "I'd use them again, but they are done with my business." Street magician was the voice of Biden robocall Paul Carpenter, a New Orleans street magician, created the AI-generated audio file replicating Biden's voice for the robocall. He read from a script provided to him by Kramer. Carpenter, paid $150 for the work, believed Kramer was working for the Biden campaign. The call, Kramer stated, aimed to provoke regulatory action and raise awareness about AI's misuse. Also read | Man, allegedly a US Air Force member, sets himself on fire outside Israeli embassy in Washington, DC "Even individuals acting alone can quickly and easily use AI for misleading and disruptive purposes," he said. Authorities in New Hampshire are investigating the call for potential violations of state laws against voter suppression laws, and the Federal Communications Commission has reportedly accelerated plans to outlaw AI robocalls in response to the Biden robocall. Kramer's admission comes after NBC News linked him to the fake Biden robocall. He revealed that he also commissioned an earlier deepfake robocall impersonating Senator Lindsey Graham as a test, which received a significantly higher response rate than an automated call. (With inputs from agencies)

Democratic political consultant Steve Kramer owns up to Biden robocall, says wanted to flag dangers of AI

Gallup poll has revealed that Joe Biden has less approval than all recent presidential incumbents. The poll, as reported in media, has revealed that only 38 per cent of respondents felt that Biden deserved a second term as US president. Watch to know more!

US Elections 2024 | 59% of voters disapprove of Joe Biden's Presidency: Gallup poll

US Elections 2024: Majority of voters unhappy with Biden's immigration policies: Gallup poll

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an&nbsp;impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.</p>

<p>As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback.</p>

<p>Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent,&nbsp;followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent.</p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modis-mann-ki-baat-wont-be-broadcast-for-next-three-months-heres-why-693667">Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why</a></p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving.</p>

<p>As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5.</p>

<p>In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>A consistent triumph for Modi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult. As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent, followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent. United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president. Also read: Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving. As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5. In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent. A consistent triumph for Modi Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said. These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi emerges as most popular global leader, tops the charts with high 78% approval rating

The percentage of Americans who approve of President Joe Biden's job performance has decreased by three points to 38%, which is only one point over his all-time low and far below the 50% mark that usually results in incumbents being reelected.

Joe Biden's rating for his job as a president drops to 38%

<p>The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.</p>

<p>Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What Biden said</strong></h2>

<p>Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home."</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-to-impose-sanctions-on-over-500-targets-on-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-693074">US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues.</p>

<p>"We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/frances-defence-minister-lecornu-slams-moscow-693162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Russia and Sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports.</p>

<p>The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-daughter-offers-tribute-to-late-father-in-first-public-statement-693120">Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement</a></strong></p>

<p>Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California.</p>

<p>After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage."</p>

<p>Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.

The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison. Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents." What Biden said Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home." Also read | US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues. "We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden. Watch | France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow × Russia and Sanctions Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports. The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny. Also read | Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California. After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage." Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine. "History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces over 500 sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'

<p>Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>'Fruitless attempts'</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions."</p>

<p>"The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a></strong></p>

<p>"In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state."</p>

<p>As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-touts-russias-new-nuclear-bomber-zelensky-pleads-for-ammo-has-nato-lost-ukraine-war-693276/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement.</p>

<h2><strong>EU's sanctions on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc. 'Fruitless attempts' In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions." "The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said. Also read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' "In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state." As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list. Watch | Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war? × "The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement. EU's sanctions on Ukraine On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow responds to EU's 'unfriendly actions,' bans bloc members from entering Russia

<p>US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny,&nbsp;who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House, in a statement, wrote, "President Biden met with Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya today in San Francisco to express his heartfelt condolences for their terrible loss following the death of Aleksey Navalny in a Russian prison. The President expressed his admiration for Aleksey Navalny’s extraordinary courage and his legacy of fighting against corruption and for a free and democratic Russia in which the rule of law applies equally to everyone."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-at-least-four-killed-in-deadly-blaze-at-residential-block-in-valencia-692917">WATCH | At least four killed in deadly blaze at residential block in Spain's Valencia</a></p>

<p>"The President emphasised that Aleksey’s legacy will carry on through people across Russia and around the world mourning his loss and fighting for freedom, democracy, and human rights," the statement added.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/odysseus-us-spacecraft-makes-historic-landing-on-moon-marks-1st-american-touchdown-in-over-50-yrs-692914">Odysseus: US spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon, marks 1st American touchdown in over 50 yrs</a></p>

<p>In the private meeting, Biden also reaffirmed that his administration will impose fresh sanctions against Russia on Saturday (February 24). Calling out Russia’s "repression and aggression", the White House said that the ongoing war by Russia in Ukraine is "brutal and illegal."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sanctions against 500 targets</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The United States, in commemoration of the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, will impose sanctions on over 500&nbsp;targets, according to Deputy US Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-after-capturing-avdiivka-russia-sets-eyes-on-southern-ukraine-692905">Russia-Ukraine war: After capturing Avdiivka, Russia sets eyes on southern Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-after-capturing-avdiivka-russia-sets-eyes-on-southern-ukraine-692905/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>These sanctions, executed in collaboration with other nations, will specifically target Russia's military-industrial complex and entities in third countries that facilitate Russia's procurement of desired goods. The objective is to hold Russia accountable for its role in the Ukraine conflict and for Navalny's death.</p>

<p>“Tomorrow we’ll release hundreds of sanctions just here in the United States, but it’s important to step back and remember that it’s not just America taking these actions,” Adeyemo said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed.

US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss. The White House, in a statement, wrote, "President Biden met with Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya today in San Francisco to express his heartfelt condolences for their terrible loss following the death of Aleksey Navalny in a Russian prison. The President expressed his admiration for Aleksey Navalny’s extraordinary courage and his legacy of fighting against corruption and for a free and democratic Russia in which the rule of law applies equally to everyone." WATCH | At least four killed in deadly blaze at residential block in Spain's Valencia "The President emphasised that Aleksey’s legacy will carry on through people across Russia and around the world mourning his loss and fighting for freedom, democracy, and human rights," the statement added. Also Read | Odysseus: US spacecraft makes historic landing on Moon, marks 1st American touchdown in over 50 yrs In the private meeting, Biden also reaffirmed that his administration will impose fresh sanctions against Russia on Saturday (February 24). Calling out Russia’s "repression and aggression", the White House said that the ongoing war by Russia in Ukraine is "brutal and illegal." Sanctions against 500 targets The United States, in commemoration of the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, will impose sanctions on over 500 targets, according to Deputy US Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: After capturing Avdiivka, Russia sets eyes on southern Ukraine × These sanctions, executed in collaboration with other nations, will specifically target Russia's military-industrial complex and entities in third countries that facilitate Russia's procurement of desired goods. The objective is to hold Russia accountable for its role in the Ukraine conflict and for Navalny's death. “Tomorrow we’ll release hundreds of sanctions just here in the United States, but it’s important to step back and remember that it’s not just America taking these actions,” Adeyemo said. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia

US President Joe Biden attacked former President Donald Trump's remarks equating himself with the Russian opposition leader who passed away last week in an Arctic prison during a fundraiser for his reelection campaign on Wednesday night. Biden also referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “crazy SOB”.

In a verbal spat, Biden calls Putin a "crazy SOB," while Kremlin denounces him as "Hollywood cowboy"

US President Joe Biden held a private meeting with the wife and daughter of the Kremlin opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who recently died in a Russian prison. Yulia and Dasha Navalnaya met Biden in San Francisco, the White House confirmed. During the meeting, Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences for their loss.

<p>In the United States, Nikki Haley, a Republican Presidential hopeful has courted controversy by stating that she believes frozen embryos created through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) were babies. Her comments echo a recent controversial ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court.</p>

<p>Haley, the last major 2024 Republican presidential challenger to frontrunner Donald Trump, has added fuel to the debate over the status of embryos in IVF procedures and the legal implications of considering them as children. With the 2024 presidential race gaining heat in the US, the issue is likely to remain contentious.</p>

<p>Here's all you need to know about the 'embryos are babies' issue.</p>

<h2><strong>What is IVF, and what are embryos?</strong></h2>

<p>IVF or In-vitro fertilisation is a popular fertilisation method available to childless individuals. It uses eggs from a biologically female individual and sperm from a biologically male person to create embryos.</p>

<p>Here, embryos refer to the initial stage of development of a multicellular organism. In humans, the term embryo is used to refer to a pregnancy until the end of the seventh week following conception.</p>

<p>IVF combines egg and sperm to grow embryos in the culture medium until they are implanted in the uterus.</p>

<h2><strong>Alabama Supreme court ruling on embryos</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday (Feb 16), the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos can be considered children under the state's laws, and that they are entitled to the same right as other unborn children.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-supreme-court-rules-frozen-embryos-are-children-692287">US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children'</a></strong></p>

<p>Passing the 7-2 majority ruling, Justice Jay Mitchell wrote "Unborn children are 'children'… without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics".</p>

<p>The ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court was issued in response to wrongful death cases involving destroyed embryos. In 2021, a patient at a fertility clinic in Mobile had allegedly broken into an IVF freezer and dropped several trays containing embryos. The case was brought against the fertility clinic, and after the top court ruling, three couples can now sue the facility for wrongful death.</p>

<h2><strong>Nikki Haley's comments&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (Feb 21), speaking during a TV interview with NBC News, the presidential candidate addressing the Alabama court ruling remarked, "Embryos, to me, are babies."</p>

<p>"When you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me, that's a life. And so I do see where that’s coming from when they talk about that," said Haley.</p>

<p>However, when asked about the potential ramifications of the decision, she chose a softer approach and said: "This is one where we need to be incredibly respectful and sensitive about it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/embryos-are-babies-nikki-haley-agrees-with-alabama-supreme-court-ivf-ruling-692583">'Embryos are babies': Nikki Haley agrees with Alabama Supreme Court's IVF ruling</a></strong></p>

<p>In another interview later the same day — with CNN, she clarified that her remarks didn't mean she agreed with the court ruling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I didn't say that I agreed with the Alabama ruling," she said, adding "Our goal is to always do what the parents want with their embryo. It is theirs."</p>

<p>Nikki has campaigned as an anti-abortion presidential contender, reports ABC News. However, seeking to differentiate herself from the Republican field, she tends to voice a less strict tone on the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns over the court ruling</strong></h2>

<p>The Alabama Supreme Court ruling on embryos has raised concerns among IVF patients and doctors, with some unsure about how to proceed with treatments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the ruling, the University of Alabama at Birmingham has&nbsp;temporarily stopped IVF treatments due to fears of legal repercussions and said: "We must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/are-frozen-embryos-children-alabama-supreme-court-gives-first-of-its-kind-decision-692484/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The&nbsp;decision has been met with criticism, from experts who warn that it could have a devastating impact on people suffering from infertility and hoping to utilise IVF.</p>

<p>"We know for all these years that we've been doing IVF not only in the United States, but around the world, there is no moment of conception. This is a group of cells. We know that not every embryo even gets to a stage of several days, let alone a live birth. And so to say that every single embryo is a child is just factually incorrect, flies in the face of science, and it is an affront to the millions of babies that have been born through IVF and this process," Barbara Collura, President and CEO of infertility advocacy group Resolve, told Reuters.</p>

<p>On X, Vice President Kamala Harris called the decision "outrageous" and said it would rob "women of the freedom to decide when and how to build a family."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This decision is outrageous—and it is already robbing women of the freedom to decide when and how to build a family. <a href="https://t.co/N04pReaM2B">https://t.co/N04pReaM2B</a></p>
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1760417615019757924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Criticising the decision, the White House, said it would create chaos for American families.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the decision reflected the consequences of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade and blamed Republican elected officials from blocking access to reproductive and emergency care to women.</p>

<p>"This president and this vice president will continue to fight to protect access to reproductive health care and call on Congress to restore the protections of Roe v. Wade in federal law for all women in every state," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabamas-largest-hospital-pauses-ivf-after-sc-says-frozen-embryos-are-children-692515">Alabama's largest hospital pauses IVF after SC says frozen embryos are children</a></strong></p>

<p>In the upcoming elections, abortion rights is likely to be a key issue. On one hand, Democrats are likely to utilise it to draw more Democrats and some independent and Republican voters to US President Joe Biden.</p>

<p>His likely opponent, former President Donald Trump, however, is known for his anti-abortion stand, and has gone as far to take credit for the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Polls have shown that most voters oppose candidates who favour strict abortion restrictions. Will the issue sway the 2024 US Presidential elections? Only time will tell.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the United States, Nikki Haley, a Republican Presidential hopeful has courted controversy by stating that she believes frozen embryos created through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) were babies.

In the United States, Nikki Haley, a Republican Presidential hopeful has courted controversy by stating that she believes frozen embryos created through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) were babies. Her comments echo a recent controversial ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court. Haley, the last major 2024 Republican presidential challenger to frontrunner Donald Trump, has added fuel to the debate over the status of embryos in IVF procedures and the legal implications of considering them as children. With the 2024 presidential race gaining heat in the US, the issue is likely to remain contentious. Here's all you need to know about the 'embryos are babies' issue. What is IVF, and what are embryos? IVF or In-vitro fertilisation is a popular fertilisation method available to childless individuals. It uses eggs from a biologically female individual and sperm from a biologically male person to create embryos. Here, embryos refer to the initial stage of development of a multicellular organism. In humans, the term embryo is used to refer to a pregnancy until the end of the seventh week following conception. IVF combines egg and sperm to grow embryos in the culture medium until they are implanted in the uterus. Alabama Supreme court ruling on embryos On Friday (Feb 16), the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos can be considered children under the state's laws, and that they are entitled to the same right as other unborn children. Also read | US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children' Passing the 7-2 majority ruling, Justice Jay Mitchell wrote "Unborn children are 'children'… without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics". The ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court was issued in response to wrongful death cases involving destroyed embryos. In 2021, a patient at a fertility clinic in Mobile had allegedly broken into an IVF freezer and dropped several trays containing embryos. The case was brought against the fertility clinic, and after the top court ruling, three couples can now sue the facility for wrongful death. Nikki Haley's comments On Wednesday (Feb 21), speaking during a TV interview with NBC News, the presidential candidate addressing the Alabama court ruling remarked, "Embryos, to me, are babies." "When you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me, that's a life. And so I do see where that’s coming from when they talk about that," said Haley. However, when asked about the potential ramifications of the decision, she chose a softer approach and said: "This is one where we need to be incredibly respectful and sensitive about it." Also read | 'Embryos are babies': Nikki Haley agrees with Alabama Supreme Court's IVF ruling In another interview later the same day — with CNN, she clarified that her remarks didn't mean she agreed with the court ruling. "I didn't say that I agreed with the Alabama ruling," she said, adding "Our goal is to always do what the parents want with their embryo. It is theirs." Nikki has campaigned as an anti-abortion presidential contender, reports ABC News. However, seeking to differentiate herself from the Republican field, she tends to voice a less strict tone on the issue. Concerns over the court ruling The Alabama Supreme Court ruling on embryos has raised concerns among IVF patients and doctors, with some unsure about how to proceed with treatments. Following the ruling, the University of Alabama at Birmingham has temporarily stopped IVF treatments due to fears of legal repercussions and said: "We must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments." Watch | Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision × The decision has been met with criticism, from experts who warn that it could have a devastating impact on people suffering from infertility and hoping to utilise IVF. "We know for all these years that we've been doing IVF not only in the United States, but around the world, there is no moment of conception. This is a group of cells. We know that not every embryo even gets to a stage of several days, let alone a live birth. And so to say that every single embryo is a child is just factually incorrect, flies in the face of science, and it is an affront to the millions of babies that have been born through IVF and this process," Barbara Collura, President and CEO of infertility advocacy group Resolve, told Reuters. On X, Vice President Kamala Harris called the decision "outrageous" and said it would rob "women of the freedom to decide when and how to build a family." This decision is outrageous—and it is already robbing women of the freedom to decide when and how to build a family. https://t.co/N04pReaM2B — Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) February 21, 2024 × Criticising the decision, the White House, said it would create chaos for American families. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the decision reflected the consequences of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade and blamed Republican elected officials from blocking access to reproductive and emergency care to women. "This president and this vice president will continue to fight to protect access to reproductive health care and call on Congress to restore the protections of Roe v. Wade in federal law for all women in every state," he added. Also read | Alabama's largest hospital pauses IVF after SC says frozen embryos are children In the upcoming elections, abortion rights is likely to be a key issue. On one hand, Democrats are likely to utilise it to draw more Democrats and some independent and Republican voters to US President Joe Biden. His likely opponent, former President Donald Trump, however, is known for his anti-abortion stand, and has gone as far to take credit for the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Polls have shown that most voters oppose candidates who favour strict abortion restrictions. Will the issue sway the 2024 US Presidential elections? Only time will tell. (With inputs from agencies)

WION Explains: The 'embryos are babies' debate and how it will affect 2024 US Presidential elections

<p>Taking inspiration from his&nbsp;predecessor Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden is considering an executive action to address the border crisis. In other news, several people were killed in southern Venezuela after an illegal 'open-pit' gold mine collapsed in the Angostura municipality.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taking-leaf-out-of-trumps-book-biden-considers-executive-action-to-restrict-asylum-at-border-692520"><strong>Taking leaf out of Trump's book? Biden considers executive action to restrict asylum at border</strong></a></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden is mulling executive action that would prevent illegal migrants from seeking asylum in the country after they have crossed the southern border, according to US media reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/21/413347-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-02-21t100259345.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/southern-venezuela-illegal-gold-mine-collapse-kills-dozens-in-bolivar-state-692504"><strong>Southern Venezuela: Illegal gold mine collapse kills dozens in Bolivar state</strong></a></p>

<p>Several people were killed in a devastating incident in Venezuela as an illegal 'Bulla Loca' gold mine collapsed on February 20 in the state of Bolivar, which requires a seven-hour boat journey from the nearest town, La Paragua.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413546-venezuela.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-officer-who-struck-and-killed-indian-student-jaahnavi-kandula-wont-be-charged-692499"><strong>Jaahnavi Kandula's death: US police officer who struck and killed Indian student won't face criminal charges</strong></a></p>

<p>The Seattle police officer who killed&nbsp;Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian student last year, won't be criminally charged, the prosecutors informed&nbsp;on Wednesday (Feb 21).</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/17/380284-succession-2023-09-17t012245279.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/wion-world-of-sports/biden-announces-fresh-student-loan-relief-for-150000-americans-692498"><strong>Biden announces fresh student loan relief for 150,000 Americans</strong></a></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Feb 21) announced he was extending his student loan forgiveness programme by cancelling loans of an additional 150,000 Americans worth $1.2 billion.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/12/411606-untitled-design-8.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icj-should-not-order-israeli-withdrawal-from-occupied-palestinian-territories-us-says-692505"><strong>Watch | ICJ should not order Israeli withdrawal from occupied Palestinian territories, US says</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icj-should-not-order-israeli-withdrawal-from-occupied-palestinian-territories-us-says-692505/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Taking inspiration from his predecessor Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden is considering an executive action to address the border crisis. In other news, several people were killed in southern Venezuela after an illegal 'open-pit' gold mine collapsed in the Angostura municipality.

Taking inspiration from his predecessor Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden is considering an executive action to address the border crisis. In other news, several people were killed in southern Venezuela after an illegal 'open-pit' gold mine collapsed in the Angostura municipality. Click on headlines to read more: Taking leaf out of Trump's book? Biden considers executive action to restrict asylum at border US President Joe Biden is mulling executive action that would prevent illegal migrants from seeking asylum in the country after they have crossed the southern border, according to US media reports. Southern Venezuela: Illegal gold mine collapse kills dozens in Bolivar state Several people were killed in a devastating incident in Venezuela as an illegal 'Bulla Loca' gold mine collapsed on February 20 in the state of Bolivar, which requires a seven-hour boat journey from the nearest town, La Paragua. Jaahnavi Kandula's death: US police officer who struck and killed Indian student won't face criminal charges The Seattle police officer who killed Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian student last year, won't be criminally charged, the prosecutors informed on Wednesday (Feb 21). Biden announces fresh student loan relief for 150,000 Americans US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Feb 21) announced he was extending his student loan forgiveness programme by cancelling loans of an additional 150,000 Americans worth $1.2 billion. Watch | ICJ should not order Israeli withdrawal from occupied Palestinian territories, US says ×

Morning news brief: Biden's proposed border plan; Venezuela illegal gold mine collapse, and more

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidNK7ToNQWoR6d" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden is mulling executive action that would prevent illegal migrants from seeking asylum in the country after they have crossed the southern border, according to US media reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move, reminiscent of his predecessor Donald Trump is expected to invite backlash from the liberal Democrats who have batted for assimilating the migrants for a long time.</p>

<p>Biden is expected to cite a law dating back to 1952, known as 212(f) to reduce the intake of migrants. The specific law allows the&nbsp;president to "suspend the entry" of foreigners when their arrival is not in the country's best interest.</p>

<p>The Trump administration repeatedly used this&nbsp;law to ban migrants and those travelling from certain countries, predominantly Muslim nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the proposals being discussed at the White House, the ban on migrant entry would only kick in after a certain number of illegal crossings had been made over an unknown period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If approved, the executive action could be announced in the next 14 days, according to a report in <em>CBS News</em>. However, the action might be legally challenged akin to the way Trump's move was blocked by federal courts in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433"><strong>Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Bipartisan bill to address migrant issue</strong></h2>

<p>The $118 billion bipartisan bill passed in the Senate earlier this month had measures to overhaul the immigration policy as well as provide emergency aid for Ukraine, Israel and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Of the total amount, $20 billion had been earmarked for shoring up the US border areas to prevent illegal migration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden justified the contents of the bill, saying it would&nbsp;give him authority to “shut down” the border when it gets overwhelmed. He added the bill made the asylum process “fairer and more efficient” while&nbsp;expediting&nbsp;work permits for those already in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Republican-dominated House of Representatives tanked the bill, forcing the Biden administration to look for alternatives. The GOP lawmakers were majorly influenced by Trump who argued that&nbsp;measures in place in the bill to address the illegal migration issue were largely 'insufficient'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-homeland-security-chief-alejandro-mayorkas-impeached-in-republican-majority-house-690050"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Biden's Homeland security chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached in Republican-majority House</strong></a></p>

<p>Experts are of the view that Biden is now attempting to change his image on the immigration issue which has tanked his approval ratings. Statistics showed that migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December last year at the southern border. It was one of the reasons why Biden's Homeland Security chief was impeached by the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden is mulling executive action that would prevent illegal migrants from seeking asylum in the country after they have crossed the southern border, according to US media reports.

US President Joe Biden is mulling executive action that would prevent illegal migrants from seeking asylum in the country after they have crossed the southern border, according to US media reports. The move, reminiscent of his predecessor Donald Trump is expected to invite backlash from the liberal Democrats who have batted for assimilating the migrants for a long time. Biden is expected to cite a law dating back to 1952, known as 212(f) to reduce the intake of migrants. The specific law allows the president to "suspend the entry" of foreigners when their arrival is not in the country's best interest. The Trump administration repeatedly used this law to ban migrants and those travelling from certain countries, predominantly Muslim nations. Under the proposals being discussed at the White House, the ban on migrant entry would only kick in after a certain number of illegal crossings had been made over an unknown period. If approved, the executive action could be announced in the next 14 days, according to a report in CBS News. However, the action might be legally challenged akin to the way Trump's move was blocked by federal courts in 2018. Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill Bipartisan bill to address migrant issue The $118 billion bipartisan bill passed in the Senate earlier this month had measures to overhaul the immigration policy as well as provide emergency aid for Ukraine, Israel and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Of the total amount, $20 billion had been earmarked for shoring up the US border areas to prevent illegal migration. Biden justified the contents of the bill, saying it would give him authority to “shut down” the border when it gets overwhelmed. He added the bill made the asylum process “fairer and more efficient” while expediting work permits for those already in the US. However, the Republican-dominated House of Representatives tanked the bill, forcing the Biden administration to look for alternatives. The GOP lawmakers were majorly influenced by Trump who argued that measures in place in the bill to address the illegal migration issue were largely 'insufficient'. Also read | Biden's Homeland security chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached in Republican-majority House Experts are of the view that Biden is now attempting to change his image on the immigration issue which has tanked his approval ratings. Statistics showed that migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December last year at the southern border. It was one of the reasons why Biden's Homeland Security chief was impeached by the House. (With inputs from agencies)

Taking leaf out of Trump's book? Biden considers executive action to restrict asylum at border

<p>US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Feb 21) announced he was extending his student loan forgiveness programme by cancelling loans of an additional 150,000 Americans worth $1.2 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement is aimed at Biden's vote bank of young voters who cast ballots for him in large numbers during the 2020 presidential election.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While a college degree is still a ticket to a better life, that ticket is too expensive.&nbsp;And too many Americans are still saddled with unsustainable debt in exchange for a college degree," said Biden.</p>

<p>Despite the high-flying announcement, the debt relief only applies to those enrolled in a specific repayment plan who meet certain requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The loan relief applies to those who enrolled in the voluntary Saving on a Valuable Education (Save) repayment plan and have been regularly making payments for at least 10 years, In addition, those who originally borrowed $12,000 or less for school are only allowed exemption under the scheme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Department of Education, 7.5 million people are enrolled in the repayment programme, which was created by the Biden administration.</p>

<p>Notably, the debt relief programme was not scheduled to kick into effect until July but the Biden administration last month said it would start ahead of schedule in February. Experts said the loan relief was a way for Biden to resurrect his plummeting approval ratings in the presidential race.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-bidens-student-loan-deductions-to-affect-already-skyrocketing-inflation-509993"><strong>Watch | Joe Biden's student loan deductions to affect already skyrocketing inflation?</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-bidens-student-loan-deductions-to-affect-already-skyrocketing-inflation-509993/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Biden's poll plank</strong></h2>

<p>After the new debt relief measure was announced, Biden's campaign shared a statement from Maxwell Frost, the first Generation Z member of the US Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President's actions on student&nbsp;debt are in stark contrast with Trump, who spent his entire time in office sabotaging efforts to aid borrowers who are just trying to make ends meet," said the 27-year-old congressman from Florida.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-bidens-game-changing-student-loan-forgiveness-progamme-launched-8-million-applications-in-already-526307" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Joe Biden's 'game-changing' student loan forgiveness progamme launched; 8 million applications in already</strong></a></p>

<p>Ever since the announcement regarding the programme was first made by Biden, Republicans have trashed it saying it is a waste of government funds that could be put to better use.</p>

<p>However, Biden has stuck with his poll promise and so far, nearly $138 billion of federal student loan debt has been cancelled for almost four million borrowers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Feb 21) announced he was extending his student loan forgiveness programme by cancelling loans of an additional 150,000 Americans worth $1.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (Feb 21) announced he was extending his student loan forgiveness programme by cancelling loans of an additional 150,000 Americans worth $1.2 billion. The announcement is aimed at Biden's vote bank of young voters who cast ballots for him in large numbers during the 2020 presidential election. "While a college degree is still a ticket to a better life, that ticket is too expensive. And too many Americans are still saddled with unsustainable debt in exchange for a college degree," said Biden. Despite the high-flying announcement, the debt relief only applies to those enrolled in a specific repayment plan who meet certain requirements. The loan relief applies to those who enrolled in the voluntary Saving on a Valuable Education (Save) repayment plan and have been regularly making payments for at least 10 years, In addition, those who originally borrowed $12,000 or less for school are only allowed exemption under the scheme. According to the Department of Education, 7.5 million people are enrolled in the repayment programme, which was created by the Biden administration. Notably, the debt relief programme was not scheduled to kick into effect until July but the Biden administration last month said it would start ahead of schedule in February. Experts said the loan relief was a way for Biden to resurrect his plummeting approval ratings in the presidential race. Watch | Joe Biden's student loan deductions to affect already skyrocketing inflation? Biden's poll plank After the new debt relief measure was announced, Biden's campaign shared a statement from Maxwell Frost, the first Generation Z member of the US Congress. "The President's actions on student debt are in stark contrast with Trump, who spent his entire time in office sabotaging efforts to aid borrowers who are just trying to make ends meet," said the 27-year-old congressman from Florida. Read more: Joe Biden's 'game-changing' student loan forgiveness progamme launched; 8 million applications in already Ever since the announcement regarding the programme was first made by Biden, Republicans have trashed it saying it is a waste of government funds that could be put to better use. However, Biden has stuck with his poll promise and so far, nearly $138 billion of federal student loan debt has been cancelled for almost four million borrowers. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden announces fresh student loan relief for 150,000 Americans

US President Joe Biden's brother, James Biden, testified Wednesday in a closed-door interview with the House Oversight and Judiciary committees as part of their impeachment probe into the president.

Joe Biden's brother James Biden testifies in impeachment inquiry

<p>US President Joe Biden's dog Commander reportedly bit US Secret Service agents in at least 24 incidents before he was removed from the White House, new documents reveal.</p>

<p>The newly released United States Secret Service (USSS) documents, which came out to the public through Freedom of Information requests, showed that there were nearly 24 occasions where the German shepherd either bit or attempted to attack Secret Service staff members or others between October 2022 and July 2023.</p>

<p>These incidents include members of the Secret Service being bitten on the forearm, wrist, waist, elbow, shoulder, thigh and chest.</p>

<p>Biden's pet dog left the White House in October 2023 following an incident where a Secret Service agent was immediately rushed for medical treatment following a severe bite.</p>

<p>In June 2023, one of the agents required stitches on the forearm after a "deep bite" by the dog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another incident that took place in July 2023, an agent developed a severe deep open wound and needed six stitches after being bitten in the hand by the dog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also lost a significant amount of blood due to the dog bite.</p>

<p>An unnamed senior agent had in an email, suggested that agents safeguarding Biden and his family "must be creative to ensure our own personal safety".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-commander-on-rampage-secret-staff-member-bit-in-11th-such-attack-640021">&nbsp;Biden's dog Commander on rampage? Secret staff member bit in 11th such attack</a></p>

<p>"The recent dog bites have challenged us to adjust our operational tactics when Commander is present - please give lots of room (staying a terrain feature away if possible)," the agent wrote.</p>

<h2><strong>Commander attacked officer in the presence of Jill Biden</strong></h2>

<p>In an October 26, 2022, Secret Service email, an unnamed officer recounted Commander charging at him in the presence of First Lady Jill Biden, CBS News reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: US President Biden's dog removed from White House | Is the secret service scared of a dog?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-president-bidens-dog-removed-from-white-house-is-the-secret-service-scared-of-a-dog-643065/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another incident on December 11, 2022, involved an agent being bitten twice in the Kennedy Garden of the White House while in the presence of President Biden after Commander was taken off his leash, as described in emails.</p>

<p>The president showed concern for the injured agent, who received medical attention from White House personnel and was able to complete his shift.</p>

<p>In an official statement, the US First Lady spokesperson Elizabeth Alexander conveyed that "the First Family is actively working on strategies to help Commander adapt to the often unpredictable nature of the White House grounds."</p>

<p>Commander was gifted to the Bidens as a puppy in December 2021 following the passing of their German Shepherd, Champ. In the same year, Biden's other German Shepherd, Major, was relocated to Delaware to live with friends of the Bidens after being involved in multiple biting incidents at the White House.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden's dog Commander reportedly bit US Secret Service agents in at least 24 incidents before he was removed from the White House, new documents reveal.

US President Joe Biden's dog Commander reportedly bit US Secret Service agents in at least 24 incidents before he was removed from the White House, new documents reveal. The newly released United States Secret Service (USSS) documents, which came out to the public through Freedom of Information requests, showed that there were nearly 24 occasions where the German shepherd either bit or attempted to attack Secret Service staff members or others between October 2022 and July 2023. These incidents include members of the Secret Service being bitten on the forearm, wrist, waist, elbow, shoulder, thigh and chest. Biden's pet dog left the White House in October 2023 following an incident where a Secret Service agent was immediately rushed for medical treatment following a severe bite. In June 2023, one of the agents required stitches on the forearm after a "deep bite" by the dog. In another incident that took place in July 2023, an agent developed a severe deep open wound and needed six stitches after being bitten in the hand by the dog. He also lost a significant amount of blood due to the dog bite. An unnamed senior agent had in an email, suggested that agents safeguarding Biden and his family "must be creative to ensure our own personal safety". Also read: Biden's dog Commander on rampage? Secret staff member bit in 11th such attack "The recent dog bites have challenged us to adjust our operational tactics when Commander is present - please give lots of room (staying a terrain feature away if possible)," the agent wrote. Commander attacked officer in the presence of Jill Biden In an October 26, 2022, Secret Service email, an unnamed officer recounted Commander charging at him in the presence of First Lady Jill Biden, CBS News reported. Also Watch: Gravitas: US President Biden's dog removed from White House | Is the secret service scared of a dog? × Another incident on December 11, 2022, involved an agent being bitten twice in the Kennedy Garden of the White House while in the presence of President Biden after Commander was taken off his leash, as described in emails. The president showed concern for the injured agent, who received medical attention from White House personnel and was able to complete his shift. In an official statement, the US First Lady spokesperson Elizabeth Alexander conveyed that "the First Family is actively working on strategies to help Commander adapt to the often unpredictable nature of the White House grounds." Commander was gifted to the Bidens as a puppy in December 2021 following the passing of their German Shepherd, Champ. In the same year, Biden's other German Shepherd, Major, was relocated to Delaware to live with friends of the Bidens after being involved in multiple biting incidents at the White House. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden's dog bit Secret Service members at least 24 times in less than a year

President Joe Biden's dog Commander bit US Secret Service agents on at least 24 occasions, new documents show. Watch in for more details!

Joe Biden's dog bit U.S. secret service agent 24 times

joe-biden

Joe Biden, News on Joe Biden, stories on Joe Biden, articles on Joe Biden, Joe Biden stories at Wion, Joe Biden news, Joe Biden latest news

joe biden

G7 eyes Russian assets for Ukraine aid; Biden warns about 'dire consequence of inaction' on aid

US: Joe Biden faces protest over Gaza | Biden competes with Trump in Michigan Primary

Michigan primary elections: Joe Biden and Donald Trump win in Democratic and Republican primaries

US: Biden trails Trump in Michigan in hypothetical 2024 rematch; spotlight on 1st major swing state

Israel-Hamas war: Biden expresses hope, says a ceasefire may happen 'by next Monday'

Biden sits down with TV comic Meyers to woo voters

Almost half of Democrats don't want Joe Biden in presidential race, reveals poll

US Elections 2024: Donald Trump wins South Carolina Primary, defeats Haley in her home state

Russia claims its troops have advanced to better positions in Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk

AI deepfakes pose threat to elections worldwide

US: Democratic operative admits to being behind fake Biden robocall

US: Steve Kramer admits to orchestrate fake Biden robocall

US, UK retaliate to surge in Red Sea attacks by Yemen's Houthis, strikes target their Air Defence

Magician responsible for AI-generated Joe Biden calling voters

Democratic political consultant Steve Kramer owns up to Biden robocall, says wanted to flag dangers of AI

US Elections 2024 | 59% of voters disapprove of Joe Biden's Presidency: Gallup poll

US Elections 2024: Majority of voters unhappy with Biden's immigration policies: Gallup poll

PM Modi emerges as most popular global leader, tops the charts with high 78% approval rating

Joe Biden's rating for his job as a president drops to 38%

US announces over 500 sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'

Moscow responds to EU's 'unfriendly actions,' bans bloc members from entering Russia

US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia

In a verbal spat, Biden calls Putin a "crazy SOB," while Kremlin denounces him as "Hollywood cowboy"

US President Biden meets Navalny's wife and daughter, vows sanctions against Russia

WION Explains: The 'embryos are babies' debate and how it will affect 2024 US Presidential elections

Morning news brief: Biden's proposed border plan; Venezuela illegal gold mine collapse, and more