President Joe Biden welcomed 49 leaders from Africa on Wednesday for US-Africa Leaders Summit. Biden told African leaders that the United States is "all in on Africa’s future".

President Joe Biden welcomes African leaders for US-Africa leaders summit in Washington

U.S. President Joe Biden is hosting 50 African leaders for a summit. The aim is to pull African nations back into America's ambit. Priyanka Sharma tells you how U.S. is playing catch-up with China.

Gravitas: Biden hosts 50 African leaders for a summit

On the tenth-year anniversary of the Sandy Hook elementary school tragedy that shocked America, U.S. President Joe Biden said that the country should feel a "collective guilt" for its failure to tackle gun violence.&nbsp;Biden said that he is "determined" to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines like the ones used in what is often considered US' worst-ever school shooting.

Watch |&nbsp;Survivors recount horrors of Sandy Hook School Shooting after 10 years

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He added the nation has a "moral obligation to pass and enforce laws that can prevent these things from happening again."

20 first graders, aged six or seven years, and six school employees lost their lives in the deadly shooting in Newton, Connecticut. Armed with an AR-15 assault rifle, a 20-year-old man named Adam Lanza went on a shooting spree before killing himself.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/conspiracy-theorist-alex-jones-ordered-to-pay-965-million-in-damages-to-sandy-hook-victims-families-524925">Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones ordered to pay $965 million in damages to Sandy Hook victims' families</a>

The shooting as per AFP not only shocked America but also renewed the divisive fight between pro-life and pro-gun supporters. A decade later, the debate still continues.

Another thing it did was led to a heightening of security measures at schools; schools reinforced their doors, and windows, students were taught how to respond to an "active shooter" situation, while staff underwent training on how to barricade classrooms.

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However, tougher restrictions on guns remained missing.

In May of this year, a similar shooting in Uvalde, Texas claimed the lives of 19 children and two teachers. In the&nbsp;aftermath of this tragedy, tougher national restrictions on guns expanding background checks and reinforcing measures to take away dangerous weapons from potentially dangerous people were passed.

But still, a law that expired in 2004, which banned military-style large-capacity weapons remains missing from action. Even after the country suffers through mass shootings, the vital law hasn't been renewed as it falls short of winning the backing of the second amendment supporting Republicans.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On the tenth-year anniversary of the Sandy Hook elementary school tragedy that shocked America, U.S. President Joe Biden said that the country should feel a "collective guilt" for its failure to tackle gun violence.

On the tenth-year anniversary of the Sandy Hook elementary school tragedy that shocked America, U.S. President Joe Biden said that the country should feel a "collective guilt" for its failure to tackle gun violence. Biden said that he is "determined" to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines like the ones used in what is often considered US' worst-ever school shooting. Watch | Survivors recount horrors of Sandy Hook School Shooting after 10 years He added the nation has a "moral obligation to pass and enforce laws that can prevent these things from happening again." 20 first graders, aged six or seven years, and six school employees lost their lives in the deadly shooting in Newton, Connecticut. Armed with an AR-15 assault rifle, a 20-year-old man named Adam Lanza went on a shooting spree before killing himself. Also read | Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones ordered to pay $965 million in damages to Sandy Hook victims' families The shooting as per AFP not only shocked America but also renewed the divisive fight between pro-life and pro-gun supporters. A decade later, the debate still continues. Another thing it did was led to a heightening of security measures at schools; schools reinforced their doors, and windows, students were taught how to respond to an "active shooter" situation, while staff underwent training on how to barricade classrooms. Also read | American conspiracy theorist Alex Jones declares bankruptcy in Texas court However, tougher restrictions on guns remained missing. In May of this year, a similar shooting in Uvalde, Texas claimed the lives of 19 children and two teachers. In the aftermath of this tragedy, tougher national restrictions on guns expanding background checks and reinforcing measures to take away dangerous weapons from potentially dangerous people were passed. But still, a law that expired in 2004, which banned military-style large-capacity weapons remains missing from action. Even after the country suffers through mass shootings, the vital law hasn't been renewed as it falls short of winning the backing of the second amendment supporting Republicans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

10 years after Sandy Hook school shooting, Biden says ‘determined’ to ban assault weapons

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed legislation protecting same-sex and interracial marriage. Thousands of people gathered on the White House South Lawn to commemorate the Respect for Marriage Act becoming law.

US President Joe Biden signs historic same-sex marriage bill at White House

U.S.-Africa summit kicks off in Washington. President Joe Biden hosts dozens of regional leaders at the second U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. The aims is to boost cooperation with African nations.

With China as unstated focus, U.S.-Africa summit begins in Washington

President Joe Biden stated on Tuesday (13 December) that although there is still work to be done, the inflation rate in the United States is decreasing and things are moving in the right direction.

‘Economic plan is working’ to slow inflation, says Biden

Following up on the recent talks between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, a high-level delegation from the United States will now visit Beijing, announced the US State Department on Saturday.&nbsp;

Daniel Kritenbrink, assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, and Laura Rosenberger, senior director for China and Taiwan at the National Security Council, will visit China, South Korea, and Japan from December 11 through 14, according to a statement from the State Department.

Watch |&nbsp;China's 'heavenly palace' space station; US space command says 'Our space assets at risk'

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The high-level delegation will prepare the ground for US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China early next year.

Last month, at the sidelines of the Indonesia G20 summit, the US and Chinese presidents engaged in "blunt talks" over Taiwan and North Korea, reports Reuters. Reportedly, the talks aimed to prevent the strained ties between the two nations from spilling into a "new cold war".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/chinas-attempt-to-challenge-the-usds-dominance-as-xi-jinping-calls-for-oil-trade-in-yuan-541922">China's attempt to challenge the USD's dominance as Xi Jinping calls for oil trade in yuan</a>

In addition to laying the stage for Blinken's visit, the State Department stated that the delegation will follow up on the meeting "to continue responsibly managing the competition between our two countries and to explore potential areas of cooperation."

The visit comes as a senior US official recently remarked that given the domestic economic challenges China faces in the country and the pushback it faces in the Asian continent due to its assertive diplomacy, Bejing is seeking stabilised relations with Washington.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-chinese-officials-over-serious-human-rights-abuse-in-tibet-541677">US imposes sanctions on Chinese officials over 'serious' human rights abuse in Tibet</a>

As per White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell, China's slowing economy over its stringent coronavirus action plan, along with the perception that it has enraged many of its neighbours, indicated that Beijing was looking for more stable relations with Washington in the "short term."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Following up on the recent talks between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, a high-level delegation from the United States will now visit Beijing, announced the US State Department on Saturday.

Following up on the recent talks between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, a high-level delegation from the United States will now visit Beijing, announced the US State Department on Saturday. Daniel Kritenbrink, assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, and Laura Rosenberger, senior director for China and Taiwan at the National Security Council, will visit China, South Korea, and Japan from December 11 through 14, according to a statement from the State Department. Watch | China's 'heavenly palace' space station; US space command says 'Our space assets at risk' The high-level delegation will prepare the ground for US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China early next year. Last month, at the sidelines of the Indonesia G20 summit, the US and Chinese presidents engaged in "blunt talks" over Taiwan and North Korea, reports Reuters. Reportedly, the talks aimed to prevent the strained ties between the two nations from spilling into a "new cold war". Also read | China's attempt to challenge the USD's dominance as Xi Jinping calls for oil trade in yuan In addition to laying the stage for Blinken's visit, the State Department stated that the delegation will follow up on the meeting "to continue responsibly managing the competition between our two countries and to explore potential areas of cooperation." The visit comes as a senior US official recently remarked that given the domestic economic challenges China faces in the country and the pushback it faces in the Asian continent due to its assertive diplomacy, Bejing is seeking stabilised relations with Washington. Also read | US imposes sanctions on Chinese officials over 'serious' human rights abuse in Tibet As per White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell, China's slowing economy over its stringent coronavirus action plan, along with the perception that it has enraged many of its neighbours, indicated that Beijing was looking for more stable relations with Washington in the "short term." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

High-level US delegation to visit China next week to prepare ground for Blinken’s trip

The United States recognised China's alleged human rights violations on Tibetan people and imposed fresh sanctions on Chinese Communist Party officials linked with reported persecution of people in Tibet and Xinjiang. The US also imposed sanctions on Russia's election commission and Iranian entities for allegedly supplying drones to help Russian assault in Ukraine.&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (December 9) that Russia could include possibility of a pre-emptive strike in its military doctrine, in an apparent reference to nuclear attack. He was speaking with reporters in Kyrghyzstan. Meanwhile, the number of marine species threatened with extinction may even overwhelm Qatar's stadium 974 beyond its full capacity where FIFA Football World Cup is being held at present. More than 42,000 marine species may go extinct in the near future, according to the global conservation body, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-china-over-iranian-drones-rights-abuses-in-tibet-541443">China's rights abuses in Tibet, Russia's use of Iranian drones draw fresh US sanctions</a>

<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/09/316848-untitled-design-13.jpg" />

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on dozens of Russia, Iran and China-based people and entities over alleged rights abuses, including Russia's Central Election Commission, Iranian officials and Chinese nationals.

The U.S. Treasury Department said it imposed sanctions on Li Zhenyu and Zhuo Xinrong, both Chinese nationals, and 10 entities linked to the two, including Nasdaq-listed Pingtan Marine Enterprise (PME) (PME.O), over what Washington says are human rights abuses tied to China-based illegal fishing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-toys-with-idea-of-pre-emptive-nuclear-strike-541732">Vladimir Putin toys with idea of 'pre-emptive' nuclear strike</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/10/317089-vladimir-putin-3.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (December 9) that Russia could include possibility of a pre-emptive strike in its military doctrine, in an apparent reference to nuclear attack. He was speaking with reporters in Kyrghyzstan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humanity-is-decimating-marine-life-reveals-iucns-updated-red-list-541741">Humanity is 'decimating' marine life, reveals IUCN's updated Red List</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/10/317104-untitled-design-21.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The number of marine species threatened with extinction may even overwhelm Qatar's stadium 974 beyond its full capacity where FIFA Football World Cup is being held at present. More than 42,000 marine species may go extinct in the near future, according to the global conservation body, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).&nbsp;

The IUCN statement released on Friday said that human activity, including illegal and unsustainable fishing, pollution, climate change and diseases have been threatening the survival of marine species and shut the prospect of their thrivings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-cop-who-kneeled-on-george-floyd-jailed-for-three-and-a-half-years-541743">Former US cop who knelt on George Floyd jailed for three-and-a-half years</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/10/317105-floyd.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A former US police officer has been sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison for his role in the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man whose killing in 2020 sparked the “Black Lives Matter” movement across the country.

In October, J Alexander Kueng, a former Minneapolis police officer, had pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter, and in exchange, a charge of aiding and abetting murder was dropped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-journalist-who-was-detained-in-qatar-for-wearing-gay-pride-shirt-dies-brother-suspects-foul-play-541751">US journalist who was detained in Qatar for wearing gay pride shirt dies, brother suspects foul play</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/10/317115-journalist.png?imwidth=1920" />

A US-based sports journalist, who was briefly detained in Qatar for wearing a rainbow shirt as a way of expressing support for LGBTQ, has died.&nbsp;Grant Wahl (49) collapsed on Friday while covering the World Cup match between Argentina and the Netherlands.

According to media reports, Wahl suddenly lost consciousness while being seated in the press box at Lusail Iconic Stadium during extra time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-president-bolsonaro-breaks-post-election-silence-541733">Brazil: President Bolsonaro breaks post-election silence</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/02/12/240341-brazil.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro finally broke his post-election silence on Friday (December 9) as he spoke to his supporters who called for a military coup against Brazil's president-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Bolsonaro said he had kept silent for almost 40 days, adding, "it hurts my soul."

"Who decides where I go are you. Who decides which way the armed forces go are you," Bolsonaro told his supporters at the gates of the presidential residence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-beat-netherlands-on-penalties-to-reach-world-cup-semis-541730">Argentina beat Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup semis</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/10/317088-lionel-messi.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Argentina will face Croatia in the World Cup semi-finals after beating the Netherlands 4-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 extra-time draw on a night of high World Cup drama.&nbsp;Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was the hero in the shootout after the South Americans let a two-goal lead slip in the final minutes of normal time after Lionel Messi had put them on the brink of the last four.

The United States recognised China's alleged human rights violations on Tibetan people and imposed fresh sanctions on Chinese Communist Party officials linked with reported persecution of people in Tibet and Xinjiang.

The United States recognised China's alleged human rights violations on Tibetan people and imposed fresh sanctions on Chinese Communist Party officials linked with reported persecution of people in Tibet and Xinjiang. The US also imposed sanctions on Russia's election commission and Iranian entities for allegedly supplying drones to help Russian assault in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (December 9) that Russia could include possibility of a pre-emptive strike in its military doctrine, in an apparent reference to nuclear attack. He was speaking with reporters in Kyrghyzstan. Meanwhile, the number of marine species threatened with extinction may even overwhelm Qatar's stadium 974 beyond its full capacity where FIFA Football World Cup is being held at present. More than 42,000 marine species may go extinct in the near future, according to the global conservation body, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Click on the headlines to read more: China's rights abuses in Tibet, Russia's use of Iranian drones draw fresh US sanctions The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on dozens of Russia, Iran and China-based people and entities over alleged rights abuses, including Russia's Central Election Commission, Iranian officials and Chinese nationals. The U.S. Treasury Department said it imposed sanctions on Li Zhenyu and Zhuo Xinrong, both Chinese nationals, and 10 entities linked to the two, including Nasdaq-listed Pingtan Marine Enterprise (PME) (PME.O), over what Washington says are human rights abuses tied to China-based illegal fishing. Vladimir Putin toys with idea of 'pre-emptive' nuclear strike Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (December 9) that Russia could include possibility of a pre-emptive strike in its military doctrine, in an apparent reference to nuclear attack. He was speaking with reporters in Kyrghyzstan. Humanity is 'decimating' marine life, reveals IUCN's updated Red List The number of marine species threatened with extinction may even overwhelm Qatar's stadium 974 beyond its full capacity where FIFA Football World Cup is being held at present. More than 42,000 marine species may go extinct in the near future, according to the global conservation body, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The IUCN statement released on Friday said that human activity, including illegal and unsustainable fishing, pollution, climate change and diseases have been threatening the survival of marine species and shut the prospect of their thrivings. Former US cop who knelt on George Floyd jailed for three-and-a-half years A former US police officer has been sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison for his role in the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man whose killing in 2020 sparked the “Black Lives Matter” movement across the country. In October, J Alexander Kueng, a former Minneapolis police officer, had pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter, and in exchange, a charge of aiding and abetting murder was dropped. US journalist who was detained in Qatar for wearing gay pride shirt dies, brother suspects foul play A US-based sports journalist, who was briefly detained in Qatar for wearing a rainbow shirt as a way of expressing support for LGBTQ, has died. Grant Wahl (49) collapsed on Friday while covering the World Cup match between Argentina and the Netherlands. According to media reports, Wahl suddenly lost consciousness while being seated in the press box at Lusail Iconic Stadium during extra time. Brazil: President Bolsonaro breaks post-election silence Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro finally broke his post-election silence on Friday (December 9) as he spoke to his supporters who called for a military coup against Brazil's president-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro said he had kept silent for almost 40 days, adding, "it hurts my soul." "Who decides where I go are you. Who decides which way the armed forces go are you," Bolsonaro told his supporters at the gates of the presidential residence. Argentina beat Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup semis Argentina will face Croatia in the World Cup semi-finals after beating the Netherlands 4-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 extra-time draw on a night of high World Cup drama. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was the hero in the shootout after the South Americans let a two-goal lead slip in the final minutes of normal time after Lionel Messi had put them on the brink of the last four.

Morning brief: Fresh US sanctions, Putin's idea of pre-emptive nuclear strikes, George Floyd's cop & more

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States has announced new aid for Kyiv. $275 million will be sent to strengthen air defences.

Russia-Ukraine war: Washington announces new aid for Kyiv

Is Russia changing its nuclear doctrine amid the ongoing Ukraine war President Putin mulls adopting a 'Washington-like' concept. In this video, have a look at the US & its policy of 'calculated ambiguity'.

Is Russia changing its nuclear doctrine? Putin mulls adopting a 'Washington-like' concept

The Biden-administration is reported to have held a high-level meeting to discuss how to engage with the new Israeli government and the question of whether to meet directly with some of its ultra-nationalist ministers. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to form a coalition government which will include the religious Zionism.

US decides on how to handle new Israeli govt; Netanyahu-Biden relations face differences

Taiwanese chipmaking giant TSMC is building a second U.S. facility in the southwest state of Arizona, highlighting the Biden Administration’s push to bring more of the semiconductor supply chain to the United States. But are there enough trained workers there to meet the demand? Michelle Quinn has our story from Arizona, where they are ramping up training for workers and students at all levels.

WION-VOA Co-Production: US President Joe Biden plans 'Make in America' chips at TSMC plant

US&nbsp;basketball star Brittney Griner has been released in a prisoner swap with Russia's Viktor Bout,&nbsp;a former arms dealer, on Wednesday. As per a joint UAE-Saudi statement, the release of the US&nbsp;basketball star was led by mediation involving The United Arab Emirates president and Saudi crown prince.

US President Biden also tweeted about her return and said, "She is safe. She is on a plane. She is on her way home."&nbsp;

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Moments ago I spoke to Brittney Griner. 
 
She is safe. 
She is on a plane. 
She is on her way home. <a href="https://t.co/FmHgfzrcDT">pic.twitter.com/FmHgfzrcDT</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1600841306560937986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke by phone with Griner from the Oval Office, a U.S. official said, adding that the call included Griner's wife, Cherelle. The White House released a photo of the telephone call as well.&nbsp;Speaking shortly after Griner was released, Biden in an address at the White House said that he was “glad to be able to say Brittney is in good spirits”,&nbsp;and was looking forward to getting home.&nbsp; 
 
For Griner’s release, the U.S. president ordered notorious arms dealer Victor Bout to be freed and returned to Russia. Biden signed the commutation order cutting short Bout’s 25-year federal prison sentence.&nbsp;The Griner-for-Bout exchange leaves retired U.S. Marine Paul Whelan imprisoned in Russia. Whelan, convicted on espionage charges that the U.S. terms false, has been in Russian custody for nearly four years.&nbsp; 
 
“We’ve not forgotten about Paul Whelan,” Biden said, adding “we will never give up” on securing his release.

Meanwhile, the brother of 52-year-old Whelan&nbsp;praised the Biden administration for its successful efforts to free Brittney Griner. He, however, called his brother's continued detention "a catastrophe".

"I am so glad that Brittney Griner is on her way home," David Whelan wrote. "As the family member of a Russian hostage, I can literally only imagine the joy she will have, being reunited with her loved ones, and in time for the holidays."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also praised the release of Brittney Griner from Russian detention and said the administration will continue efforts to bring Paul Whelan and other detainees back to the US.

“I am grateful to the State Department team and to our colleagues across the government who worked tirelessly to secure her release. I especially commend Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens, who is accompanying Brittney back to the United States, as well as his entire team,”. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-receives-massive-boost-as-raheem-sterling-set-to-return-ahead-of-france-last-8-match-fa-541321">England receives massive boost as Raheem Sterling set to return ahead of France last-8 match – FA</a>

32-year-old Griner, a star of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on February&nbsp;17. Talks to secure her release were complicated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24th,&nbsp;and the subsequent deep souring of ties between Washington and Moscow. A two-time Olympic gold medallist, Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia, were found in her luggage.

She was later sentenced on August&nbsp;4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. Griner&nbsp;had pleaded guilty and admitted&nbsp;she had made an 'honest mistake'&nbsp;and that she had not meant to break the law. In November, she was taken to a penal colony in the Russian region of Mordovia to serve her prison sentence.

While she is on her way, a lot of her teammates are posting tweets for her,&nbsp;welcoming her. Here is what they wrote -

"My best friend is on the way Home!!!!! I love you BG!!!" Emma Cannon, who plays for the Indiana Fever and was previously on Griner's Phoenix Mercury, wrote on Twitter.

"Thank you to every single person that kept Brittney Griner’s name alive," her Phoenix Mercury teammate Brianna Turner tweeted.

The WNBA and its men's counterpart, the National Basketball Association (NBA), had advocated for the release of the eight-times All-Star.

"BG is FREE!!! 294 days and she is coming home!!!" tweeted twice WNBA champion and finals MVP Breanna Stewart of the Seattle Storm, who was among the league's vocal advocates for her release.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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US basketball star Brittney Griner has been released in a prisoner swap with Russia's Viktor Bout, a former arms dealer, on Wednesday. As per a joint UAE-Saudi statement, the release of the US basketball star was led by mediation involving The United Arab Emirates president and Saudi crown prince.

US basketball star Brittney Griner has been released in a prisoner swap with Russia's Viktor Bout, a former arms dealer, on Wednesday. As per a joint UAE-Saudi statement, the release of the US basketball star was led by mediation involving The United Arab Emirates president and Saudi crown prince. US President Biden also tweeted about her return and said, "She is safe. She is on a plane. She is on her way home." Moments ago I spoke to Brittney Griner. She is safe. She is on a plane. She is on her way home. pic.twitter.com/FmHgfzrcDT — President Biden (@POTUS) December 8, 2022 × Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke by phone with Griner from the Oval Office, a U.S. official said, adding that the call included Griner's wife, Cherelle. The White House released a photo of the telephone call as well. Speaking shortly after Griner was released, Biden in an address at the White House said that he was “glad to be able to say Brittney is in good spirits”, and was looking forward to getting home. For Griner’s release, the U.S. president ordered notorious arms dealer Victor Bout to be freed and returned to Russia. Biden signed the commutation order cutting short Bout’s 25-year federal prison sentence. The Griner-for-Bout exchange leaves retired U.S. Marine Paul Whelan imprisoned in Russia. Whelan, convicted on espionage charges that the U.S. terms false, has been in Russian custody for nearly four years. “We’ve not forgotten about Paul Whelan,” Biden said, adding “we will never give up” on securing his release. Meanwhile, the brother of 52-year-old Whelan praised the Biden administration for its successful efforts to free Brittney Griner. He, however, called his brother's continued detention "a catastrophe". "I am so glad that Brittney Griner is on her way home," David Whelan wrote. "As the family member of a Russian hostage, I can literally only imagine the joy she will have, being reunited with her loved ones, and in time for the holidays." US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also praised the release of Brittney Griner from Russian detention and said the administration will continue efforts to bring Paul Whelan and other detainees back to the US. “I am grateful to the State Department team and to our colleagues across the government who worked tirelessly to secure her release. I especially commend Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens, who is accompanying Brittney back to the United States, as well as his entire team,”. ALSO READ: England receives massive boost as Raheem Sterling set to return ahead of France last-8 match – FA 32-year-old Griner, a star of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on February 17. Talks to secure her release were complicated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24th, and the subsequent deep souring of ties between Washington and Moscow. A two-time Olympic gold medallist, Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia, were found in her luggage. She was later sentenced on August 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. Griner had pleaded guilty and admitted she had made an 'honest mistake' and that she had not meant to break the law. In November, she was taken to a penal colony in the Russian region of Mordovia to serve her prison sentence. While she is on her way, a lot of her teammates are posting tweets for her, welcoming her. Here is what they wrote - "My best friend is on the way Home!!!!! I love you BG!!!" Emma Cannon, who plays for the Indiana Fever and was previously on Griner's Phoenix Mercury, wrote on Twitter. "Thank you to every single person that kept Brittney Griner’s name alive," her Phoenix Mercury teammate Brianna Turner tweeted. The WNBA and its men's counterpart, the National Basketball Association (NBA), had advocated for the release of the eight-times All-Star. "BG is FREE!!! 294 days and she is coming home!!!" tweeted twice WNBA champion and finals MVP Breanna Stewart of the Seattle Storm, who was among the league's vocal advocates for her release. (With inputs from Reuters) ×

Brittany Griner freed for Russian arms dealer in mediation led by UAE president, Saudi crown prince

German Chancellor Olaf Sholz believes that the risk of Russian President Vladimir Putin using Nuclear weapons during his ongoing invasion of Ukraine has gone down.

While the war was still raging with "undiminished brutality," Scholz said in an interview with Funke Media to commemorate his first year in office that one thing had changed: "Russia has stopped threatening to use nuclear weapons."

Watch |&nbsp;West-Russia rivalry: Arctic the new battlefield, Putin inaugurates nuclear-powered icebreakers<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-russia-rivalry-arctic-the-new-battlefield-putin-inaugurates-nuclear-powered-icebreakers-536587/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

He chalked this up to "the international community marking a red line."

Reiterating his earlier stand of continued communications with Moscow, he said that despite deep divisions the importance of maintaining dialogue with the Kremlin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-scholz-says-completely-stopping-talks-with-putin-would-be-a-grave-mistake-540088">German chancellor Scholz says completely stopping talks with Putin 'would be a grave mistake'</a>

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Scholz defended Germany's support for Ukraine, which has been criticised in Kyiv and elsewhere in Europe for being too cautious. He claimed that, after the United States, Germany was one of the country's biggest backers, including with regard to the provision of weapons.

"We are doing everything we can to prevent a direct war between Russia and NATO. Such a conflict would have only losers – all over the world."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slams-russian-loose-talk-on-nuclear-weapons-after-putin-remarks-541057">US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks</a>

He further said that Putin must halt the conflict, adding that he (Scholz) will be ready to speak with Russia about arms control in Europe, adding that this was also an offer made prior to the conflict.

In spite of his assertion that a nuclear war was becoming more likely, Putin emphasised on Wednesday that Russia had not "gone mad" and that its nuclear weapons were only meant to serve as a defensive deterrent.

(With inputs from agencies)

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German Chancellor Olaf Sholz believes that the risk of Russian President Vladimir Putin using Nuclear weapons during his ongoing invasion of Ukraine has gone down.

German Chancellor Olaf Sholz believes that the risk of Russian President Vladimir Putin using Nuclear weapons during his ongoing invasion of Ukraine has gone down. While the war was still raging with "undiminished brutality," Scholz said in an interview with Funke Media to commemorate his first year in office that one thing had changed: "Russia has stopped threatening to use nuclear weapons." Watch | West-Russia rivalry: Arctic the new battlefield, Putin inaugurates nuclear-powered icebreakers He chalked this up to "the international community marking a red line." Reiterating his earlier stand of continued communications with Moscow, he said that despite deep divisions the importance of maintaining dialogue with the Kremlin. Also read | German chancellor Scholz says completely stopping talks with Putin 'would be a grave mistake' Scholz defended Germany's support for Ukraine, which has been criticised in Kyiv and elsewhere in Europe for being too cautious. He claimed that, after the United States, Germany was one of the country's biggest backers, including with regard to the provision of weapons. "We are doing everything we can to prevent a direct war between Russia and NATO. Such a conflict would have only losers – all over the world." Also Read | US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks He further said that Putin must halt the conflict, adding that he (Scholz) will be ready to speak with Russia about arms control in Europe, adding that this was also an offer made prior to the conflict. In spite of his assertion that a nuclear war was becoming more likely, Putin emphasised on Wednesday that Russia had not "gone mad" and that its nuclear weapons were only meant to serve as a defensive deterrent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

German chancellor Scholz says 'Russia has stopped threatening to use nuclear weapons'

United States President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have agreed to increase gas exports between the two countries. According to the agreement, the amount of gas exported from the US to UK will increase substantially in the near future to offset the crisis caused by the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. With Russia cutting off gas supply to Europe, the gas bills in the UK have skyrocketed and to counter the crisis, the two countries announced the “energy security and affordability partnership” and will also set up a joint action group including officials from both sides.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-major-shift-from-zero-covid-policy-china-scraps-several-controversial-rules-540823">In major shift from zero-Covid policy, China scraps several contentious rules</a>

“Together the UK and US will ensure the global price of energy and the security of our national supply can never again be manipulated by the whims of a failing regime,” Sunak told reporters.

While the UK was not overly reliant on Russian gas supplies, the competition in the market for alternate sources following the sanctions imposed on Russia left the country in a tough situation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-before-anti-regime-agitation-1200-students-in-iran-get-sick-due-to-food-poisoning-540828">1,200 Iranian students 'poisoned' day before anti-govt agitation</a>

However, under the new deal, the amount of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exported to the UK from the US is expected to be double the amount exported in 2021. The two countries will also be looking to collaborate on green initiatives with special focus on finding alternate fuel sources.

“During this global energy crisis, brought on by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, it is more important than ever for allied countries to deepen their cooperation to ensure resilient international systems which reflect our shared values,” Biden and Sunak said in a joint statement.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

United States President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have agreed to increase gas exports between the two countries. According to the agreement, the amount of gas exported from the US to UK will increase substantially in the near future to offset the crisis caused by the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

United States President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have agreed to increase gas exports between the two countries. According to the agreement, the amount of gas exported from the US to UK will increase substantially in the near future to offset the crisis caused by the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. With Russia cutting off gas supply to Europe, the gas bills in the UK have skyrocketed and to counter the crisis, the two countries announced the “energy security and affordability partnership” and will also set up a joint action group including officials from both sides. Also read | In major shift from zero-Covid policy, China scraps several contentious rules “Together the UK and US will ensure the global price of energy and the security of our national supply can never again be manipulated by the whims of a failing regime,” Sunak told reporters. While the UK was not overly reliant on Russian gas supplies, the competition in the market for alternate sources following the sanctions imposed on Russia left the country in a tough situation. Also read | 1,200 Iranian students 'poisoned' day before anti-govt agitation However, under the new deal, the amount of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exported to the UK from the US is expected to be double the amount exported in 2021. The two countries will also be looking to collaborate on green initiatives with special focus on finding alternate fuel sources. “During this global energy crisis, brought on by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, it is more important than ever for allied countries to deepen their cooperation to ensure resilient international systems which reflect our shared values,” Biden and Sunak said in a joint statement.

Joe Biden, Rishi Sunak agree to double gas exports from US to UK, work on fuel alternatives

The Republicans plan to question three Twitter executives in congress over the suppression during the 2020 US election of data from a laptop belonging to Hunter Biden.

Biden family most corrupt in history, claim Republicans

Actor George Clooney, singer Amy Grant, singer Gladys Knight, composer Tania León and rock group U2 were honored by U.S. President Joe Biden at the 45th Kennedy Center Honors show.

White House hosts 45th Kennedy Centre Honors

US President Joe Biden on Monday (December 6) invited Brazil's president-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to visit the White House. Lula da Silva may visit US after he assumes offic on January 1.

US National Security adviser Jake Sullivan met Lula in Brasilia. Both discussed strengthening democracy in the Americas combating climate change and addressing the situation in Haiti and Venezuela.

On behalf of Biden, Sullivan extended the invitation to visit Washington

"He congratulated the President-elect on his election victory and discussed the importance of keeping open channels of communication between the two countries during the transition," said White House in a statement. No exact date has been announced.

Lula welcomed the invite on social media.

"I am excited to talk with President Biden and deepen the relationship between our countries," he tweeted.

Even though Lula has yet to be inaugurated, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said it made sense to invite him now.

"We want to hit the ground running with that relationship, that important bilateral relationship that we have with Brazil," she told reporters during a briefing.

The leftist leader won Brazil's presidential election in October, defeating far-right incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro, who was an ally of former President Donald Trump and was the last G20 leader to recognize Biden's 2020 victory.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden on Monday (December 6) invited Brazil's president-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to visit the White House. Lula da Silva may visit US after he assumes offic on January 1.

US President Joe Biden on Monday (December 6) invited Brazil's president-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to visit the White House. Lula da Silva may visit US after he assumes offic on January 1. US National Security adviser Jake Sullivan met Lula in Brasilia. Both discussed strengthening democracy in the Americas combating climate change and addressing the situation in Haiti and Venezuela. On behalf of Biden, Sullivan extended the invitation to visit Washington "He congratulated the President-elect on his election victory and discussed the importance of keeping open channels of communication between the two countries during the transition," said White House in a statement. No exact date has been announced. Lula welcomed the invite on social media. "I am excited to talk with President Biden and deepen the relationship between our countries," he tweeted. Even though Lula has yet to be inaugurated, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said it made sense to invite him now. "We want to hit the ground running with that relationship, that important bilateral relationship that we have with Brazil," she told reporters during a briefing. The leftist leader won Brazil's presidential election in October, defeating far-right incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro, who was an ally of former President Donald Trump and was the last G20 leader to recognize Biden's 2020 victory. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Biden invites Brazil president-elect Lula to visit White House

The race for the Republican candidacy for the 2024 Presidential election is heating up. Former President Donald Trump is trailing behind in the White House race as DeSantis emerge as a top challenger.

Trump trailing in White House race; DeSantis seen as a top challenger to Trump

German chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday said that it would be a grave mistake to completely stop talking to Russia and its President Vladimir Putin. &nbsp;

Scholz's remarks come just two days after he held a telephone conversation with Putin. During their conversation on Friday (December 2), the chancellor reportedly pressed the Russian leader to seek a diplomatic end to the war in Ukraine.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia denounces oil price cap agreed by EU, G7; Zelensky says 'price cap on Moscow not serious'

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Referring to the call, Scholz as per Reuters said "I have spoken to him (Putin) repeatedly since then because I am firmly convinced that it is a grave mistake if, despite all the differences, and this is, after all, a small word for huge differences, we no longer talk to each other at all."

He added that "it is also important that the French president and I, as representatives of the G7 countries, as two NATO countries, keep seeking dialogue again. However, we do so without any illusions because they are always long conversations and because all the public statements we hear to justify this war are repeated there."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-strikes-civilian-areas-including-apartment-block-in-kherson-says-kyiv-540037">Russia strikes civilian areas, including apartment block, in Kherson, says Kyiv</a>

In a statement released after the one-hour call, Scholz's spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit said that the chancellor condemned Russian airstrikes on civilian infrastructure "and stressed Germany's determination to support Ukraine in ensuring the defence capability against Russian aggression".

However, as per AFP Putin accused the West of pursuing "destructive policies" and also warned that the attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure are "inevitable", adding that thanks to the "political and financial support" from its western allies, " Kyiv completely rejects the idea of any negotiations".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-says-will-not-accept-western-price-cap-on-its-crude-claims-russian-oil-will-continue-to-be-in-demand-540030">Moscow says will not accept western price cap on its crude, claims 'Russian oil will continue to be in demand'</a>

Hebestreit also said that the two leaders have agreed to "remain in contact".

During an award ceremony for the Marion Doenhoff Prize, he expressed hope that the&nbsp;Russian war of aggression against Ukraine will be over soon. "We don't know when it will end, but it will end. And one thing is already absolutely clear: this war will not end with a victory for the great Russian expansionism. Putin's great Russian mission will fail. It has already failed dramatically."

This Marion Doenhoff Prize has been awarded to Irina Scherbakowa, a founding member of the Russian human rights organisation Memorial.

(With inputs from agencies)

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German chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday said that it would be a grave mistake to completely stop talking to Russia and its President Vladimir Putin. Scholz's remarks come just two days after he held a telephone conversation with Putin.

German chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday said that it would be a grave mistake to completely stop talking to Russia and its President Vladimir Putin. Scholz's remarks come just two days after he held a telephone conversation with Putin. During their conversation on Friday (December 2), the chancellor reportedly pressed the Russian leader to seek a diplomatic end to the war in Ukraine. Watch | Russia denounces oil price cap agreed by EU, G7; Zelensky says 'price cap on Moscow not serious' Referring to the call, Scholz as per Reuters said "I have spoken to him (Putin) repeatedly since then because I am firmly convinced that it is a grave mistake if, despite all the differences, and this is, after all, a small word for huge differences, we no longer talk to each other at all." He added that "it is also important that the French president and I, as representatives of the G7 countries, as two NATO countries, keep seeking dialogue again. However, we do so without any illusions because they are always long conversations and because all the public statements we hear to justify this war are repeated there." Also read | Russia strikes civilian areas, including apartment block, in Kherson, says Kyiv In a statement released after the one-hour call, Scholz's spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit said that the chancellor condemned Russian airstrikes on civilian infrastructure "and stressed Germany's determination to support Ukraine in ensuring the defence capability against Russian aggression". However, as per AFP Putin accused the West of pursuing "destructive policies" and also warned that the attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure are "inevitable", adding that thanks to the "political and financial support" from its western allies, " Kyiv completely rejects the idea of any negotiations". Also read | Moscow says will not accept western price cap on its crude, claims 'Russian oil will continue to be in demand' Hebestreit also said that the two leaders have agreed to "remain in contact". During an award ceremony for the Marion Doenhoff Prize, he expressed hope that the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine will be over soon. "We don't know when it will end, but it will end. And one thing is already absolutely clear: this war will not end with a victory for the great Russian expansionism. Putin's great Russian mission will fail. It has already failed dramatically." This Marion Doenhoff Prize has been awarded to Irina Scherbakowa, a founding member of the Russian human rights organisation Memorial. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

German chancellor Scholz says completely stopping talks with Putin 'would be a grave mistake'

Gladys Knight, Singer Amy Grant, activist-actor George Clooney and Irish band U2 were honoured at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday. The honorees were given heartfelt tributes by their peers and friends. Patti LaBelle praised Gladys Knight, Matt Damon teased his friend George Clooney and Sheryl Crow sang a heartfelt rendition of 'Baby Baby' for Amy Grant.&nbsp;

Groundbreaking composer and conductor Tania León was also part of this year’s class. Every year the Kennedy Center honours a select group of people for their artistic influences on American culture. President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and their respective spouses were in attendance.

On the red carpet ahead of the Kennedy Center show, Clooney, with his wife, Amal, beside him, joked that after seeing friends like Don Cheadle and Julia Roberts in attendance he was worried his tribute would be more of a “roast.” And it was indeed a bit of a roast for Clooney, though his friends and family showed evident respect.

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Please join us in congratulating your 45th class of Kennedy Center Honorees. 🤩🌈✨ 
 
Tune in Dec. 28 at 8 p.m. EST as a star-studded <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KCHonors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KCHonors</a> lineup pays tribute to <a href="https://twitter.com/U2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@U2</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/amygrant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmyGrant</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/MsGladysKnight?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MsGladysKnight</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GeorgeClooney?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GeorgeClooney</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TaniaLe%C3%B3n?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TaniaLeón</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/CBS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CBS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/paramountplus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ParamountPlus</a>. 
 
📸 Gail Schulman <a href="https://t.co/1OMUVoJS9H">pic.twitter.com/1OMUVoJS9H</a>
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Longtime friend Julia Roberts set the tone by coming out onstage with a dress decorated with photos of Clooney all over it. After an introduction that alternated between funny and heartfelt, she turned to a set designed to look like a smoky bar — the type Clooney might enjoy. The actor’s father regaled the crowd with stories of a young George, including the time the 7-year-old — heartbroken over Martin Luther King Jr. assassination in 1968 — gave his father all his toy guns.

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So this is kind of amazing: George Clooney was among the honorees at tonight’s Kennedy Center Honors, so Julia Roberts wore a custom Moschino gown adorned with … framed photos of George Clooney. Great sense of humor … <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KennedyCenterHonors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KennedyCenterHonors</a> <a href="https://t.co/UaM3R6c7IC">pic.twitter.com/UaM3R6c7IC</a>
— 🌻🌻 Laurie Brookins 🌻🌻 (@StyleWriterNYC) <a href="https://twitter.com/StyleWriterNYC/status/1599604050634211329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Miss Gladys Knight looked extremely beautiful last night being honored at the Kennedy Center Honors! <a href="https://t.co/hPZsF4pmk4">pic.twitter.com/hPZsF4pmk4</a>
— 𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚝𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚜 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚓𝚎𝚌𝚝. (@travisfromdabk_) <a href="https://twitter.com/travisfromdabk_/status/1599465398550032384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Damon took the funny road, joking about how Clooney once stole then-President Bill Clinton’s stationery and wrote notes to fellow actors on it. Cheadle highlighted Clooney’s philanthropic work.

LaBelle called Knight her “everything,” saying they had been friends for six decades and seen each other through laughter and tears. “We do everything together,” LaBelle said. “I am honoured to honour you tonight.”

Actor and hip-hop star LL Cool J said that whenever Knight sings she connects with people. “I once heard Gladys sing the ABCs and I thought I was in church,” he said.

Country music superstar Garth Brooks, citing Knight’s “roots in country music,” sang her classic “Midnight Train to Georgia.”

Crow sang one of Grant’s most famous songs, “Baby Baby,” while veteran news anchor Katie Couric talked about how young Grant was when she was discovered.

The honorees came to the theater from a White House reception where Biden praised them before a star-studded East Room crowd as an “exceptional group of artists.”

“Thank you for showing us the power of the arts and ‘We the People,’” Biden said.

(With agency inputs)

Gladys Knight, Singer Amy Grant, activist-actor George Clooney and Irish band U2 were honoured at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday. The honorees were given heartfelt tributes by their peers and friends.

Gladys Knight, Singer Amy Grant, activist-actor George Clooney and Irish band U2 were honoured at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday. The honorees were given heartfelt tributes by their peers and friends. Patti LaBelle praised Gladys Knight, Matt Damon teased his friend George Clooney and Sheryl Crow sang a heartfelt rendition of 'Baby Baby' for Amy Grant. Groundbreaking composer and conductor Tania León was also part of this year’s class. Every year the Kennedy Center honours a select group of people for their artistic influences on American culture. President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and their respective spouses were in attendance. On the red carpet ahead of the Kennedy Center show, Clooney, with his wife, Amal, beside him, joked that after seeing friends like Don Cheadle and Julia Roberts in attendance he was worried his tribute would be more of a “roast.” And it was indeed a bit of a roast for Clooney, though his friends and family showed evident respect. Please join us in congratulating your 45th class of Kennedy Center Honorees. 🤩🌈✨ Tune in Dec. 28 at 8 p.m. EST as a star-studded #KCHonors lineup pays tribute to @U2, @AmyGrant, @MsGladysKnight, #GeorgeClooney, and #TaniaLeón on @CBS and @ParamountPlus. 📸 Gail Schulman pic.twitter.com/1OMUVoJS9H — The Kennedy Center (@kencen) December 4, 2022 × Longtime friend Julia Roberts set the tone by coming out onstage with a dress decorated with photos of Clooney all over it. After an introduction that alternated between funny and heartfelt, she turned to a set designed to look like a smoky bar — the type Clooney might enjoy. The actor’s father regaled the crowd with stories of a young George, including the time the 7-year-old — heartbroken over Martin Luther King Jr. assassination in 1968 — gave his father all his toy guns. So this is kind of amazing: George Clooney was among the honorees at tonight’s Kennedy Center Honors, so Julia Roberts wore a custom Moschino gown adorned with … framed photos of George Clooney. Great sense of humor … #KennedyCenterHonors pic.twitter.com/UaM3R6c7IC — 🌻🌻 Laurie Brookins 🌻🌻 (@StyleWriterNYC) December 5, 2022 × Miss Gladys Knight looked extremely beautiful last night being honored at the Kennedy Center Honors! pic.twitter.com/hPZsF4pmk4 — 𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚝𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚜 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚓𝚎𝚌𝚝. (@travisfromdabk_) December 4, 2022 × Damon took the funny road, joking about how Clooney once stole then-President Bill Clinton’s stationery and wrote notes to fellow actors on it. Cheadle highlighted Clooney’s philanthropic work. LaBelle called Knight her “everything,” saying they had been friends for six decades and seen each other through laughter and tears. “We do everything together,” LaBelle said. “I am honoured to honour you tonight.” Actor and hip-hop star LL Cool J said that whenever Knight sings she connects with people. “I once heard Gladys sing the ABCs and I thought I was in church,” he said. Country music superstar Garth Brooks, citing Knight’s “roots in country music,” sang her classic “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Crow sang one of Grant’s most famous songs, “Baby Baby,” while veteran news anchor Katie Couric talked about how young Grant was when she was discovered. The honorees came to the theater from a White House reception where Biden praised them before a star-studded East Room crowd as an “exceptional group of artists.” “Thank you for showing us the power of the arts and ‘We the People,’” Biden said. (With agency inputs)

Biden honours Gladys Knight, George Clooney, U2 at Kennedy Center 

Russia has denounced the West's price cap on its oil and said it "will not accept" it. The Kremlin also reportedly said that it was analysing how to respond.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as per a report by the Russian news agency TASS said that his country has made preparations for the price cap that goes into effect on Monday (December 5th).

AFP reports that this price cap agreed by the EU, G7 and Australia will go into effect on Monday alongside an EU embargo on maritime deliveries of Russian crude oil. Under the cap, Russia can only continue delivery of oil sold at $60 per barrel or less.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia denounces oil price cap agreed by EU, G7; Zelensky says 'price cap on Moscow not serious'

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Peskov said "We will not accept this cap," adding that Moscow will conduct a rapid analysis of the agreement and respond.

Russia has insisted that it will stop oil supplies to nations that have participated in the price cap. Mikhail Ulyanov, Moscow's ambassador to international organisations in Vienna, also confirmed this stance in social media posts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-60-price-cap-on-russian-oil-is-not-serious-as-it-is-quite-comfortable-for-moscow-539969">Zelensky says $60 price cap on Russian oil is ‘not serious’, won’t push Moscow into ending war</a>

"Starting from this year Europe will live without Russian oil," he said in one post, in another he claimed that Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak too has confirmed that Moscow will cut supplies to countries supporting the price cap.

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Starting from this year <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Europe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Europe</a> will live w/o Russian oil. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Moscow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Moscow</a> has already made it clear that it will NOT supply <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/oil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#oil</a> to those countries who support anti-market price cap. Very soon the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> will blame <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> for using oil as a weapon.
— Mikhail Ulyanov (@Amb_Ulyanov) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amb_Ulyanov/status/1599025369272979456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Deputy Prime Minister of Russia A.Novak confirmed today that Moscow would not supply oil to countries supporting price cap.They can make politically motivated anti-market decisions putting at risk stability of the oil market, Russia has the right to react accordingly.
— Mikhail Ulyanov (@Amb_Ulyanov) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amb_Ulyanov/status/1599435772699893763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Reuters reports that as per US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen the price cap will be particularly beneficial to low and medium-income countries and would "cut into" the Russian President's most important source of revenue.

"With Russia's economy already contracting and its budget increasingly stretched thin, the price cap will immediately cut into (President Vladimir) Putin’s most important source of revenue."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-agrees-to-stick-to-its-oil-output-targets-amid-market-uncertainties-539992">OPEC+ agrees to stick to its oil output targets amid market uncertainties, energy crisis</a>

On Friday, Russian Urals crude was traded at approximately $67/barrel.

Russia's embassy in the United States criticised the cap and called the move "dangerous", adding that in spite of it Moscow is "confident" it will find buyers for its oil.

"Steps like these will inevitably result in increasing uncertainty and imposing higher costs for raw materials' consumers," it said."Regardless of the current flirtations with the dangerous and illegitimate instrument, we are confident that Russian oil will continue to be in demand."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has denounced the West's price cap on its oil and said it "will not accept" it. The Kremlin also reportedly said that it was analysing how to respond. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as per a report by the Russian news agency TASS said that his country has made preparations for the price cap that goes into effect on Monday (December 5th).

Russia has denounced the West's price cap on its oil and said it "will not accept" it. The Kremlin also reportedly said that it was analysing how to respond. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as per a report by the Russian news agency TASS said that his country has made preparations for the price cap that goes into effect on Monday (December 5th). AFP reports that this price cap agreed by the EU, G7 and Australia will go into effect on Monday alongside an EU embargo on maritime deliveries of Russian crude oil. Under the cap, Russia can only continue delivery of oil sold at $60 per barrel or less. Watch | Russia denounces oil price cap agreed by EU, G7; Zelensky says 'price cap on Moscow not serious' Peskov said "We will not accept this cap," adding that Moscow will conduct a rapid analysis of the agreement and respond. Russia has insisted that it will stop oil supplies to nations that have participated in the price cap. Mikhail Ulyanov, Moscow's ambassador to international organisations in Vienna, also confirmed this stance in social media posts. Also read | Zelensky says $60 price cap on Russian oil is ‘not serious’, won’t push Moscow into ending war "Starting from this year Europe will live without Russian oil," he said in one post, in another he claimed that Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak too has confirmed that Moscow will cut supplies to countries supporting the price cap. Starting from this year #Europe will live w/o Russian oil. #Moscow has already made it clear that it will NOT supply #oil to those countries who support anti-market price cap. Very soon the #EU will blame #Russia for using oil as a weapon. — Mikhail Ulyanov (@Amb_Ulyanov) December 3, 2022 × Deputy Prime Minister of Russia A.Novak confirmed today that Moscow would not supply oil to countries supporting price cap.They can make politically motivated anti-market decisions putting at risk stability of the oil market, Russia has the right to react accordingly. — Mikhail Ulyanov (@Amb_Ulyanov) December 4, 2022 × Reuters reports that as per US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen the price cap will be particularly beneficial to low and medium-income countries and would "cut into" the Russian President's most important source of revenue. "With Russia's economy already contracting and its budget increasingly stretched thin, the price cap will immediately cut into (President Vladimir) Putin’s most important source of revenue." Also read | OPEC+ agrees to stick to its oil output targets amid market uncertainties, energy crisis On Friday, Russian Urals crude was traded at approximately $67/barrel. Russia's embassy in the United States criticised the cap and called the move "dangerous", adding that in spite of it Moscow is "confident" it will find buyers for its oil. "Steps like these will inevitably result in increasing uncertainty and imposing higher costs for raw materials' consumers," it said."Regardless of the current flirtations with the dangerous and illegitimate instrument, we are confident that Russian oil will continue to be in demand." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow says will not accept western price cap on its crude, claims 'Russian oil will continue to be in demand'

U.S. Prez Joe Biden praises the five honorees at the 45th Kennedy Center Honors

Former US President Donald Trump on Saturday called for the Constitution's termination so that the 2020 election can be overturned and he can be reinstated back to power. 
 
In a post on the social network Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution.” 
 
He further accused “Big Tech” of closely working with Democrats. He added, “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False &amp; Fraudulent Elections!” 
 
The post on the social platform came after internal Twitter emails were released which showed deliberation over a story in the New York Post that talked about material discovered in Hunter Biden's laptop in 2020. 
 
On Saturday, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said that the remarks made by Trump are “anathema to the soul of our nation, and should be universally condemned.” 
 
“You cannot only love America when you win. The American Constitution is a sacrosanct document that for over 200 years has guaranteed that freedom and the rule of law prevail in our great country. The Constitution brings the American people together – regardless of party – and elected leaders swear to uphold it. It’s the ultimate monument to all of the Americans who have given their lives to defeat self-serving despots that abused their power and trampled on fundamental rights,” said Bates in a statement. 
 
Employees in the legal, communications and policy teams of Twitter debated and even disagreed over whether the article should be restricted under the hacked materials policy of the company. This incident took place weeks before the 2020 elections when the US President and father of Hunter Biden, Joe Biden, was running in the elections against then-President Trump. 
 
Last month, Trump declared his third presidential bid and is still considered the Republican Party's leader widely. The party leaders were hoping that Trump would give up his election denialism rhetoric after the midterm elections' lacklustre results.

Former US President Donald Trump on Saturday called for the Constitution's termination so that the 2020 election can be overturned and he can be reinstated back to power.

Former US President Donald Trump on Saturday called for the Constitution's termination so that the 2020 election can be overturned and he can be reinstated back to power. In a post on the social network Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution.” He further accused “Big Tech” of closely working with Democrats. He added, “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False & Fraudulent Elections!” The post on the social platform came after internal Twitter emails were released which showed deliberation over a story in the New York Post that talked about material discovered in Hunter Biden's laptop in 2020. On Saturday, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said that the remarks made by Trump are “anathema to the soul of our nation, and should be universally condemned.” “You cannot only love America when you win. The American Constitution is a sacrosanct document that for over 200 years has guaranteed that freedom and the rule of law prevail in our great country. The Constitution brings the American people together – regardless of party – and elected leaders swear to uphold it. It’s the ultimate monument to all of the Americans who have given their lives to defeat self-serving despots that abused their power and trampled on fundamental rights,” said Bates in a statement. Employees in the legal, communications and policy teams of Twitter debated and even disagreed over whether the article should be restricted under the hacked materials policy of the company. This incident took place weeks before the 2020 elections when the US President and father of Hunter Biden, Joe Biden, was running in the elections against then-President Trump. Last month, Trump declared his third presidential bid and is still considered the Republican Party's leader widely. The party leaders were hoping that Trump would give up his election denialism rhetoric after the midterm elections' lacklustre results.

Trump appeals to terminate Constitution, make him president

Former U.S. president Donald Trump upped his election denialism and pushed fringe conspiracy theories citing the release of internal emails showing that Twitter suppressed the New York Post story about material found on Hunter Biden’s laptop and called for the termination of the Constitution to overturn the 2020 election and reinstate him to power. 
 
Calling for the Constitution's termination so that the 2020 election can be overturned and he can be reinstated back to power, Trump wrote in a&nbsp;post on the social network Truth Social on Saturday, “Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution.” 
 
He further accused “Big Tech” of closely working with Democrats. He added, “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False &amp; Fraudulent Elections!”

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-informs-its-adversaries-of-a-rare-submarine-port-visit-in-indian-ocean-539848">US Navy informs its adversaries of a rare submarine port visit in Indian Ocean</a> 
 
The post on the social platform came after internal Twitter emails were released which showed deliberation over a story in the New York Post that talked about material discovered in Hunter Biden's laptop in 2020. 
 
On Saturday, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said the remarks made by Trump are “anathema to the soul of our nation, and should be universally condemned.” 
 
“You cannot only love America when you win. The American Constitution is a sacrosanct document that for over 200 years has guaranteed that freedom and the rule of law prevail in our great country. The Constitution brings the American people together – regardless of party – and elected leaders swear to uphold it. It’s the ultimate monument to all of the Americans who have given their lives to defeat self-serving despots that abused their power and trampled on fundamental rights,” said Bates in a statement.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-building-massive-army-based-in-occupied-mariupol-show-satellite-images-539823">Russia building massive army base in occupied Mariupol, show satellite images</a> 
 
Employees in the legal, communications and policy teams of Twitter had debated and even disagreed over whether the article on Hunter Biden should be restricted under the hacked materials policy of the company. This incident took place weeks before the 2020 elections when the US President and father of Hunter Biden, Joe Biden, was running in the elections against then-president Trump. 
 
Last month, Trump declared his third presidential bid and is still considered the Republican Party's leader widely. The party leaders were hoping that Trump would give up his election denialism rhetoric after the midterm elections' lacklustre results. 
&nbsp;

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Former U.S. president Donald Trump upped his election denialism and pushed fringe conspiracy theories citing the release of internal emails showing that Twitter suppressed the New York Post story about material found on Hunter Biden’s laptop and called for the termination of the Constitution to overturn the 2020 election and reinstate him to power.

Former U.S. president Donald Trump upped his election denialism and pushed fringe conspiracy theories citing the release of internal emails showing that Twitter suppressed the New York Post story about material found on Hunter Biden’s laptop and called for the termination of the Constitution to overturn the 2020 election and reinstate him to power. Calling for the Constitution's termination so that the 2020 election can be overturned and he can be reinstated back to power, Trump wrote in a post on the social network Truth Social on Saturday, “Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution.” He further accused “Big Tech” of closely working with Democrats. He added, “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False & Fraudulent Elections!” ALSO READ| US Navy informs its adversaries of a rare submarine port visit in Indian Ocean The post on the social platform came after internal Twitter emails were released which showed deliberation over a story in the New York Post that talked about material discovered in Hunter Biden's laptop in 2020. On Saturday, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said the remarks made by Trump are “anathema to the soul of our nation, and should be universally condemned.” “You cannot only love America when you win. The American Constitution is a sacrosanct document that for over 200 years has guaranteed that freedom and the rule of law prevail in our great country. The Constitution brings the American people together – regardless of party – and elected leaders swear to uphold it. It’s the ultimate monument to all of the Americans who have given their lives to defeat self-serving despots that abused their power and trampled on fundamental rights,” said Bates in a statement. ALSO READ| Russia building massive army base in occupied Mariupol, show satellite images Employees in the legal, communications and policy teams of Twitter had debated and even disagreed over whether the article on Hunter Biden should be restricted under the hacked materials policy of the company. This incident took place weeks before the 2020 elections when the US President and father of Hunter Biden, Joe Biden, was running in the elections against then-president Trump. Last month, Trump declared his third presidential bid and is still considered the Republican Party's leader widely. The party leaders were hoping that Trump would give up his election denialism rhetoric after the midterm elections' lacklustre results.

Trump cites Twitter row to appeal for termination of US Constitution, reinstatement as president

US President Joe Biden on Friday appealed to the country's political leaders to denounce anti-Semitism, in the wake of Donald Trump hosting a Holocaust denier and rapper Kanye West declaring his admiration for Adolf Hitler and the Nazis.

US President Joe Biden on Friday appealed to the country's political leaders to denounce anti-Semitism, in the wake of Donald Trump hosting a Holocaust denier and rapper Kanye West declaring his admiration for Adolf Hitler and the Nazis. The warning was issued by Biden at a time when concerns are being raised over anti-Semitic discourse's normalisation in the United States. "I just want to make a few things clear: The Holocaust happened. Hitler was a demonic figure. And instead of giving it a platform, our political leaders should be calling out and rejecting antisemitism wherever it hides,” tweeted Biden. "Silence is complicity," he added. Biden made the statement a day after West, who is now known by the name Ye, was thrown out of Twitter after he tried to incite violence with his post which displayed a Nazi swastika interlaced with a Star of David. ALSO READ | Twitter suppressed Hunter Biden laptop story in 2020, internal emails reveal This Twitter ban was immediately followed by another unhinged interview taken by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, in which West was seen covering his complete face with a black mask and professing his "love" for the Nazis and strongly stating "I like Hitler." Previously, Donal Trump faced backlash from the White House for hosting the Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes and West at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida last week. In his defence, Trump said that West brought along several of his friends uninvited, among which one was Fuentes, who is an outspoken anti-Semite and a white supremacist and whose YouTube channel was suspended permanently over hate speech in 2020. West has not been the only celebrity to have caused an uproar with an anti-Semitic statement of late, another such celebrity is NBA star Kyrie Irving who recently faced suspension and apologised for linking to a movie, which was labelled as anti-Semitic. White supremacist ideology Elon Musk's decision to cut back moderation after he bought Twitter has led to an exacerbation of unease about the spread of hate speech. The Anti-Defamation League published data on Friday which said that there has been a surge of more than 60% in anti-Semitic tweets which are related to Judaism and Jews in the past two weeks after Musk's takeover of Twitter. The rhetoric matches the steady increase in the occurrence of hateful incidents targeted towards Jews. It was discovered by the Anti-Defamation League that reports related to vandalism, harassment and violence against Jews increased drastically, reaching an all-time high, in the United States in 2021. In 2019, the country had to deal with a shocking incident of deadly shootings which targeted synagogues in Pittsburgh and California. ALSO READ | Trump knew about tax fraud in his company, says prosecution in closing arguments In both scenarios, the attackers belonged to the far-right that supports hate against African Americans, Jews, Muslims and immigrants and advocates for a Christian, Caucasian society which is based on European culture. After the twin attacks, concerns were reinforced about anti-Semitic hatred becoming a rallying point for resurged white supremacists, who had received encouragement after Trump had failed to condemn their ideology unequivocally. The former president's critics, which include Republican rebels like Liz Cheney, have slammed the party for enabling anti-Semitism and white supremacy under Trump's sway. Biden, who has himself claimed that he decided to run for president after hearing Trump's refusal to denounce a neo-Nazi rally organised in Charlottesville in 2017, has spoken repeatedly against the ideology which he believes "tears at the soul" of the nation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joe Biden says 'silence is complicity' in his call to denounce anti-semitism

US President Joe Biden has urged American political leaders to actively denounce antisemitism. He made the statement in the context of former president Donald Trump hosting the Holocaust denier and far-right commentator Nick Fuentes and disgraced rapper<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-heil-hitler-kanye-wests-new-slogan-says-i-love-nazis-and-hitler-539555"> Kanye West</a> openly expressing admiration of Adolf Hitler after a series of statements against Jews.&nbsp;

On Twitter, Biden wrote, "I just want to make a few things clear: The Holocaust happened. Hitler was a demonic figure. And instead of giving it a platform, our political leaders should be calling out and rejecting antisemitism wherever it hides. Silence is complicity."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-suspends-kanye-wests-twitter-account-after-rapper-posts-swastika-image-539387">Elon Musk suspends Kanye West's Twitter account after rapper posts Swastika image</a>

Trump had hosted West and Fuentes at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, prompting outraged reactions from even Republican Party members.&nbsp;

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I just want to make a few things clear: 
 
The Holocaust happened. 
 
Hitler was a demonic figure. 
 
And instead of giving it a platform, our political leaders should be calling out and rejecting antisemitism wherever it hides. 
 
Silence is complicity.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1598714500286406657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Meanwhile, West was kicked out from Twitter for the second time in two months. In October this year, he was barred from Instagram for saying rapper Puff Daddy is controlled by Jews. He then logged in to his dormant Twitter account, sharing that he will be "going death con 3" on the jews (presumably misspelling DEFCON or defense readiness condition). He was suspended from Twitter too. He was reinstated after Elon Musk took charge of the microblogging site.

But on Friday, he shared an image of Star of David with a swastika etched inside of it. Before that, he had already earned the ire of many by saying he likes Hitler in an interview with far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-kanye-west-expresses-admiration-for-hitler-he-did-good-things-too-539321">Kanye West expresses admiration for Hitler: 'He did good things too'</a>

Jones was saying that he does not believe West is a Nazi and does not deserve to be demonised. To which West, his face completely covered in a black mask, countered, "Well, I see good things about Hitler also. The Jews...I love everyone, and the Jewish people are not going to tell me ‘You can love us and you can love what we are doing to you with the contracts, and you can love what we are pushing with the pornography’, but this guy that invented highways, invented the very microphone that I use as a musician, you can’t say out loud that this person ever did anything good and I am done with that."

In response, Jones said he did not like Nazis or Hitler. But West was not backing down. “I like Hitler. They did good things too, we’ve got to stop dissing the Nazis all the time. The Jewish media has made us feel like the Nazis and Hitler have never offered anything of value to the world.” he said. 
&nbsp;

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US President Joe Biden has urged American political leaders to actively denounce antisemitism. He made the statement in the context of former president Donald Trump hosting the Holocaust denier and far-right commentator Nick Fuentes and disgraced rapper Kanye West openly expressing admiration of Adolf Hitler after a series of statements against Jews.

US President Joe Biden has urged American political leaders to actively denounce antisemitism. He made the statement in the context of former president Donald Trump hosting the Holocaust denier and far-right commentator Nick Fuentes and disgraced rapper Kanye West openly expressing admiration of Adolf Hitler after a series of statements against Jews. On Twitter, Biden wrote, "I just want to make a few things clear: The Holocaust happened. Hitler was a demonic figure. And instead of giving it a platform, our political leaders should be calling out and rejecting antisemitism wherever it hides. Silence is complicity." Also Read: Elon Musk suspends Kanye West's Twitter account after rapper posts Swastika image Trump had hosted West and Fuentes at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, prompting outraged reactions from even Republican Party members. I just want to make a few things clear: The Holocaust happened. Hitler was a demonic figure. And instead of giving it a platform, our political leaders should be calling out and rejecting antisemitism wherever it hides. Silence is complicity. — President Biden (@POTUS) December 2, 2022 × Meanwhile, West was kicked out from Twitter for the second time in two months. In October this year, he was barred from Instagram for saying rapper Puff Daddy is controlled by Jews. He then logged in to his dormant Twitter account, sharing that he will be "going death con 3" on the jews (presumably misspelling DEFCON or defense readiness condition). He was suspended from Twitter too. He was reinstated after Elon Musk took charge of the microblogging site. But on Friday, he shared an image of Star of David with a swastika etched inside of it. Before that, he had already earned the ire of many by saying he likes Hitler in an interview with far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. Also Read: Kanye West expresses admiration for Hitler: 'He did good things too' Jones was saying that he does not believe West is a Nazi and does not deserve to be demonised. To which West, his face completely covered in a black mask, countered, "Well, I see good things about Hitler also. The Jews...I love everyone, and the Jewish people are not going to tell me ‘You can love us and you can love what we are doing to you with the contracts, and you can love what we are pushing with the pornography’, but this guy that invented highways, invented the very microphone that I use as a musician, you can’t say out loud that this person ever did anything good and I am done with that." In response, Jones said he did not like Nazis or Hitler. But West was not backing down. “I like Hitler. They did good things too, we’ve got to stop dissing the Nazis all the time. The Jewish media has made us feel like the Nazis and Hitler have never offered anything of value to the world.” he said.

Joe Biden condemns Kanye West's admiration for Hitler: 'He was a demonic figure'

Nine months into the Ukraine-War conflict, Moscow's Defence Ministry and the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, said that on Thursday, the two nations swapped 50 prisoners of war in the latest prisoner swap.

The swap as per Reuters comes after the top Russian official in charge of the partially occupied Ukrainian region of Donetsk announced earlier on Thursday that 50 prisoners of war would be exchanged between Moscow and Kyiv.

Watch |&nbsp;NATO to boost its support to Ukraine amid Russian strikes

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Russia said that it will fly freed detainees to Moscow for rehabilitation and medical examinations.

Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, announced the release of 50 "protectors of Ukraine" and promised that further prisoners of war will be exchanged "until the liberation of the last Ukrainian".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-wives-encouraging-their-husbands-to-rape-ukrainian-women-alleges-first-lady-olena-zelenska-539149">Russian wives encouraging their husbands to rape Ukrainian women, alleges first lady Olena Zelenska</a>

Yermak posted on the Telegram messaging service, "The defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal have returned, also those captured ... in the battles in the Donetsk, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia directions."

Yermak further stated that among the newly released an unidentified number of Ukrainian prisoners of war were detained at the Olenivka detention centre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-beefs-up-security-due-to-letter-bombs-ukraine-ambassador-pohoreltsev-blames-russia-539178">Spain beefs up security due to letter bombs; Ukraine ambassador Pohoreltsev blames Russia</a>

In a July attack in the eastern frontline town of Olenivka, close to Donetsk, dozens of Ukrainian prisoners held by Moscow-backed separatists were killed.

Earlier as per an AFP report, Russia had accused Kyiv of executing several surrendering soldiers.

A UN report published last month alleged that prisoners of war on both sides have been subject to torture and ill-treatment.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nine months into the Ukraine-War conflict, Moscow's Defence Ministry and the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, said that on Thursday, the two nations swapped 50 prisoners of war in the latest prisoner swap.

Nine months into the Ukraine-War conflict, Moscow's Defence Ministry and the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, said that on Thursday, the two nations swapped 50 prisoners of war in the latest prisoner swap. The swap as per Reuters comes after the top Russian official in charge of the partially occupied Ukrainian region of Donetsk announced earlier on Thursday that 50 prisoners of war would be exchanged between Moscow and Kyiv. Watch | NATO to boost its support to Ukraine amid Russian strikes Russia said that it will fly freed detainees to Moscow for rehabilitation and medical examinations. Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine's presidential administration, announced the release of 50 "protectors of Ukraine" and promised that further prisoners of war will be exchanged "until the liberation of the last Ukrainian". Also read | Russian wives encouraging their husbands to rape Ukrainian women, alleges first lady Olena Zelenska Yermak posted on the Telegram messaging service, "The defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal have returned, also those captured ... in the battles in the Donetsk, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia directions." Yermak further stated that among the newly released an unidentified number of Ukrainian prisoners of war were detained at the Olenivka detention centre. Also read | Spain beefs up security due to letter bombs; Ukraine ambassador Pohoreltsev blames Russia In a July attack in the eastern frontline town of Olenivka, close to Donetsk, dozens of Ukrainian prisoners held by Moscow-backed separatists were killed. Earlier as per an AFP report, Russia had accused Kyiv of executing several surrendering soldiers. A UN report published last month alleged that prisoners of war on both sides have been subject to torture and ill-treatment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia, Ukraine swap PoWs; Kyiv says exchange will continue 'until the liberation of the last' protector

U.S. President Joe Biden says he is open to meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a way to end the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin says Putin too remains open to talks, but with condition. Molly Gambhir tells you all about it.

Gravitas | Ukraine war: Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin to meet soon?

US President Joe Biden said that he would be willing to speak to Vladimir Putin for the first time since the Ukraine invasion if the Russian leader truly wants to end the war.

Russia Ukraine War: Moscow accuses US, NATO of being directly involved in conflict

The US President Joe Biden had his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron hail the essential Washington and Paris ties. Watch this video to know more.

US, France can 'Succeed Together, Not Against Each Other', says Macron

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