Oil and gasoline prices are climbing. Energy company profits are surging. President Joe Biden, who came into office promising to reduce the use of fossil fuels, has effectively joined the “drill, baby drill” chorus. Europe would love to end its dependence on Russia.

Is this the moment the U.S. oil business has been waiting for? Not exactly.

Production of oil by U.S. energy companies is essentially flat and unlikely to increase substantially for at least another year or two. If Europe were to stop buying Russian oil and natural gas as some of its leaders have promised, it won’t be able to replace that energy with fuels from the United States anytime soon.

U.S. oil production is up less than 2%, to 11.8 million barrels a day, since December and remains well below the record 13.1 million barrels a day set in March 2020 just before the pandemic paralyzed the global economy. Government forecasters predict that American oil production will average just 12 million barrels a day in 2022 and increase by roughly 1 million barrels a day in 2023. That would be well short of the nearly 4 million barrels of oil that Europe imports from Russia every day.

“You had this bombastic, chest-pounding industry touting itself as the reincarnation of the American innovative spirit,” said Jim Krane, an energy expert at Rice University. “And now that they could be leaping into action to pitch in to bring much needed oil to the world, they are being uncharacteristically cautious.”

The biggest reason oil production isn’t increasing is that U.S. energy companies and Wall Street investors are not sure that oil prices will stay high long enough for them to make a profit from drilling lots of new wells. Many remember how abruptly and sharply oil prices crashed two years ago, forcing companies to lay off thousands of employees, shut down wells and even seek bankruptcy protection.

Executives at 141 oil companies surveyed by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas in mid-March offered several reasons for why they weren’t pumping more oil. They said they were short of workers and sand, which is used to fracture shale fields to coax oil out of rock. But the most salient reason — the one offered by 60% of respondents — was that investors in oil companies don’t want companies to produce a lot more oil, fearing that it will hasten the end of high oil prices.

The Dallas Fed survey found that U.S. companies need oil prices to average just $56 a barrel to break even, a little more than half the current price. But some are worried that the price could fall to as little as $50 by the end of the year.

“There is a tremendous amount of muscle memory from COVID and the dramatic drop in prices,” said Ben Shepperd, president of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association in Midland, Texas. “If we were convinced oil prices would hold at levels of $75 a barrel or more for another three years, you would see a higher level of capital deployment.”

U.S. oil companies are not alone. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries have also refused to pump a lot more oil since Russia’s war began in late February.

This deep-seated reluctance stands in contrast to how the oil industry has typically behaved when prices have surged.

Over the past two decades, oil companies almost always responded to higher prices by investing and pumping more. A drilling frenzy accompanied the rise in prices in the early 2000s, and again in the recovery that followed the 2008 financial crisis. U.S. oil production has doubled since 2006, and the country has become a major exporter of oil, natural gas and petroleum products like gasoline and diesel.

But every price boom was followed by a huge crash — three in just the past 14 years. Scores of companies have filed bankruptcy cases. Only two years ago, oil prices plummeted by more than $50 a barrel in a single day to less than zero as the pandemic took hold and producers had no place to store oil that nobody needed to buy.

Exxon Mobil’s stock fell so much that the keepers of the Dow Jones Industrial Average kicked it off the index. The company had been in the average in one form or another since 1928, and its departure became a symbol of Wall Street’s growing distaste for fossil fuel stocks as more investors demand that companies reduce the emissions causing climate change.

Oil executives and investors cite a number of scenarios under which prices could again fall quickly. For example, Russia could lose the war and have to retreat. COVID outbreaks and lockdowns in China could hobble that country’s economy, driving down global growth and demand for energy. A new nuclear deal with Iran could open a spigot of oil exports.

Pioneer Natural Resources, a major Texas producer that last year acquired two other oil companies, is no longer aiming to increase production by 20% as it had in years past. It now aims to grow by just 5%. The company’s chief executive, Scott Sheffield, said he aimed to return 80% of its free cash flow — the cash left over after it pays its operating expenses and capital expenditures — to shareholders.

“The model has totally changed,” he said.

Oil executives also argue that they are spending a lot of money on new oil and gas production but that inflation is undercutting their efforts. Exploration and production spending will rise by more than 20% this year but about two-thirds of that increase will go toward paying higher prices for labor, materials and services, among other costs, according to RBN Energy, a research firm based in Houston.

“It is a bit of a sticker shock because we’re seeing inflation across the entire sector,” Jeff Miller, the CEO of Halliburton, which drills wells and performs other services for oil companies, told analysts on a recent conference call.

Smaller private companies, financed by private equity, are responsible for much of the new activity. According to the Dallas Fed survey, the median growth rate for companies that produce fewer than 10,000 barrels a day was projected at 15% this year, compared with only 6% for firms that produce more than 10,000 barrels a day.

Larger oil companies complain that even if they wanted to invest more, it would be hard to because Wall Street isn’t keen on financing new fossil fuel projects. Some investors who are concerned about climate change are instead choosing to put their money into renewable energy, electric cars and other businesses.

It is not that investors have become environmentalists. Many have run the numbers and concluded that the recent jump in fossil fuel prices will be short-lived and that they are better off investing in companies and industries that they believe have a brighter future.

“If you are an investor, has your view of the next five to 10 years actually changed? I think the answer is no,” said Amy Myers Jaffe, managing director at the Climate Policy Lab at Tufts University’s Fletcher School. “History tells us that oil shocks accelerate a shift to alternative energy, not the opposite.”

Many oil executives also complain that the future of their industry is clouded by political and regulatory uncertainty. They acknowledge that Biden has been calling on them to produce more but fear that his administration will go back to emphasizing the need for less oil and gas when prices fall.

“During Earth Day, the president said we have got to get off oil, and at the same time he’s begging us for 2 million additional barrels to send to Europe,” said Kirk Edwards, CEO of Latigo Petroleum, a West Texas producer. “You cannot have it both ways.”

The tension between the strategic advantages of domestic oil and gas production and the environmental costs of fossil fuel use are not likely to go away soon. Environmentalists are worried that awarding more permits for oil drilling on public lands and building new terminals to export natural gas to Europe will increase the world’s dependence on fossil fuels. But administration officials have countered that their emphasis on increasing oil and gas production will not deter longer-term efforts to make a transition to cleaner energy.

“We just can’t transition to green energy in a way that leaves us and our allies dependent on the oil of geopolitical rivals,” said Evan Ellis, a researcher at the U.S. Army War College and former State Department planner. “The ability of the U.S. to put more oil and gas into the market would be a useful weapon, enabling the Europeans to wean themselves off of Russian energy.”

David Braziel, CEO of RBN Energy, said the United States had the capacity to export more than 6 million barrels of oil a day, roughly twice what it is exporting now. While ramping up production will take time, he said the industry could produce 16 million barrels a day by 2027, more than 4 million barrels more than now, assuming prices remain high and investments increase.

“We have plenty of capacity to get extra crude oil out,” Braziel said. “We could be doing much more now than we are currently doing.”

Oil and gasoline prices are climbing. Energy company profits are surging. President Joe Biden, who came into office promising to reduce the use of fossil fuels, has effectively joined the “drill, baby drill” chorus.

Oil and gasoline prices are climbing. Energy company profits are surging. President Joe Biden, who came into office promising to reduce the use of fossil fuels, has effectively joined the “drill, baby drill” chorus. Europe would love to end its dependence on Russia. Is this the moment the U.S. oil business has been waiting for? Not exactly. Production of oil by U.S. energy companies is essentially flat and unlikely to increase substantially for at least another year or two. If Europe were to stop buying Russian oil and natural gas as some of its leaders have promised, it won’t be able to replace that energy with fuels from the United States anytime soon. U.S. oil production is up less than 2%, to 11.8 million barrels a day, since December and remains well below the record 13.1 million barrels a day set in March 2020 just before the pandemic paralyzed the global economy. Government forecasters predict that American oil production will average just 12 million barrels a day in 2022 and increase by roughly 1 million barrels a day in 2023. That would be well short of the nearly 4 million barrels of oil that Europe imports from Russia every day. “You had this bombastic, chest-pounding industry touting itself as the reincarnation of the American innovative spirit,” said Jim Krane, an energy expert at Rice University. “And now that they could be leaping into action to pitch in to bring much needed oil to the world, they are being uncharacteristically cautious.” The biggest reason oil production isn’t increasing is that U.S. energy companies and Wall Street investors are not sure that oil prices will stay high long enough for them to make a profit from drilling lots of new wells. Many remember how abruptly and sharply oil prices crashed two years ago, forcing companies to lay off thousands of employees, shut down wells and even seek bankruptcy protection. Executives at 141 oil companies surveyed by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas in mid-March offered several reasons for why they weren’t pumping more oil. They said they were short of workers and sand, which is used to fracture shale fields to coax oil out of rock. But the most salient reason — the one offered by 60% of respondents — was that investors in oil companies don’t want companies to produce a lot more oil, fearing that it will hasten the end of high oil prices. The Dallas Fed survey found that U.S. companies need oil prices to average just $56 a barrel to break even, a little more than half the current price. But some are worried that the price could fall to as little as $50 by the end of the year. “There is a tremendous amount of muscle memory from COVID and the dramatic drop in prices,” said Ben Shepperd, president of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association in Midland, Texas. “If we were convinced oil prices would hold at levels of $75 a barrel or more for another three years, you would see a higher level of capital deployment.” U.S. oil companies are not alone. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries have also refused to pump a lot more oil since Russia’s war began in late February. This deep-seated reluctance stands in contrast to how the oil industry has typically behaved when prices have surged. Over the past two decades, oil companies almost always responded to higher prices by investing and pumping more. A drilling frenzy accompanied the rise in prices in the early 2000s, and again in the recovery that followed the 2008 financial crisis. U.S. oil production has doubled since 2006, and the country has become a major exporter of oil, natural gas and petroleum products like gasoline and diesel. But every price boom was followed by a huge crash — three in just the past 14 years. Scores of companies have filed bankruptcy cases. Only two years ago, oil prices plummeted by more than $50 a barrel in a single day to less than zero as the pandemic took hold and producers had no place to store oil that nobody needed to buy. Exxon Mobil’s stock fell so much that the keepers of the Dow Jones Industrial Average kicked it off the index. The company had been in the average in one form or another since 1928, and its departure became a symbol of Wall Street’s growing distaste for fossil fuel stocks as more investors demand that companies reduce the emissions causing climate change. Oil executives and investors cite a number of scenarios under which prices could again fall quickly. For example, Russia could lose the war and have to retreat. COVID outbreaks and lockdowns in China could hobble that country’s economy, driving down global growth and demand for energy. A new nuclear deal with Iran could open a spigot of oil exports. Pioneer Natural Resources, a major Texas producer that last year acquired two other oil companies, is no longer aiming to increase production by 20% as it had in years past. It now aims to grow by just 5%. The company’s chief executive, Scott Sheffield, said he aimed to return 80% of its free cash flow — the cash left over after it pays its operating expenses and capital expenditures — to shareholders. “The model has totally changed,” he said. Oil executives also argue that they are spending a lot of money on new oil and gas production but that inflation is undercutting their efforts. Exploration and production spending will rise by more than 20% this year but about two-thirds of that increase will go toward paying higher prices for labor, materials and services, among other costs, according to RBN Energy, a research firm based in Houston. “It is a bit of a sticker shock because we’re seeing inflation across the entire sector,” Jeff Miller, the CEO of Halliburton, which drills wells and performs other services for oil companies, told analysts on a recent conference call. Smaller private companies, financed by private equity, are responsible for much of the new activity. According to the Dallas Fed survey, the median growth rate for companies that produce fewer than 10,000 barrels a day was projected at 15% this year, compared with only 6% for firms that produce more than 10,000 barrels a day. Larger oil companies complain that even if they wanted to invest more, it would be hard to because Wall Street isn’t keen on financing new fossil fuel projects. Some investors who are concerned about climate change are instead choosing to put their money into renewable energy, electric cars and other businesses. It is not that investors have become environmentalists. Many have run the numbers and concluded that the recent jump in fossil fuel prices will be short-lived and that they are better off investing in companies and industries that they believe have a brighter future. “If you are an investor, has your view of the next five to 10 years actually changed? I think the answer is no,” said Amy Myers Jaffe, managing director at the Climate Policy Lab at Tufts University’s Fletcher School. “History tells us that oil shocks accelerate a shift to alternative energy, not the opposite.” Many oil executives also complain that the future of their industry is clouded by political and regulatory uncertainty. They acknowledge that Biden has been calling on them to produce more but fear that his administration will go back to emphasizing the need for less oil and gas when prices fall. “During Earth Day, the president said we have got to get off oil, and at the same time he’s begging us for 2 million additional barrels to send to Europe,” said Kirk Edwards, CEO of Latigo Petroleum, a West Texas producer. “You cannot have it both ways.” The tension between the strategic advantages of domestic oil and gas production and the environmental costs of fossil fuel use are not likely to go away soon. Environmentalists are worried that awarding more permits for oil drilling on public lands and building new terminals to export natural gas to Europe will increase the world’s dependence on fossil fuels. But administration officials have countered that their emphasis on increasing oil and gas production will not deter longer-term efforts to make a transition to cleaner energy. “We just can’t transition to green energy in a way that leaves us and our allies dependent on the oil of geopolitical rivals,” said Evan Ellis, a researcher at the U.S. Army War College and former State Department planner. “The ability of the U.S. to put more oil and gas into the market would be a useful weapon, enabling the Europeans to wean themselves off of Russian energy.” David Braziel, CEO of RBN Energy, said the United States had the capacity to export more than 6 million barrels of oil a day, roughly twice what it is exporting now. While ramping up production will take time, he said the industry could produce 16 million barrels a day by 2027, more than 4 million barrels more than now, assuming prices remain high and investments increase. “We have plenty of capacity to get extra crude oil out,” Braziel said. “We could be doing much more now than we are currently doing.”

Why US oil companies aren’t riding to Europe’s rescue

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States has hosted over 40 military leaders in Germany. The West has vowed to bolster Ukraine's defence.

US hosts over 40 military leaders as West vows to bolster Ukraine's defence

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has successfully purchased Twitter for $44 billion. The deal will give the world's richest person control of the social media platform populated by millions of users and global leaders.

Now that the Tesla CEO&nbsp;has purchased Twitter, the US government has expressed some concerns.

During a Monday press briefing, the White House said that US President Joe Biden was concerned about the power that large social media outlets hold.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wion-explains-the-elon-musk-controversy-and-the-current-top-shareholders-of-twitter-471576">WION explains: The Elon Musk-Twitter controversy</a> 
&nbsp; 
Dismissing that this concern had anything to do with the billionaire, spokesperson Jen Psaki said the White House would not comment on an individual transaction.

"Our concerns are not new," said Psaki.

"No matter who owns or runs Twitter, the President has long been concerned about the power of large social media platforms, that power they have over our everyday lives."

She added that Biden "has long argued that tech platforms must be held accountable for the harm they cause."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk's mission Twitter: Musk to seal the deal with Twitter? Twitter shares jump over 3%

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musks-mission-twitter-musk-to-seal-the-deal-with-twitter-twitter-shares-jump-over-3-473852/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Just a few hours ago on Monday, Musk successfully clinched a deal to purchase micro-blogging site Twitter for $44 billion.&nbsp;

His takeover of Twitter is the culmination of a whirlwind of announcements and counter-announcements, punctuated by gleefully fired punches at the company, that too on its own platform.

Musk's new character as a social media tyrant is sure to stoke a debate over his political leanings, corporate practices, and outsized personality.

Even as he touts himself as an advocate of free speech, he is known to be libertarian, anti-woke, and impulsive. His critics describe him as autocratic and bullying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-is-what-free-speech-means-elon-musks-appeal-to-worst-critics-as-he-nears-deal-with-twitter-473789" hreflang="en">'That is what free speech means': Elon Musk's appeal to 'worst critics' as he nears deal with Twitter</a>

Officials in the Biden administration believe that more vigilance will help to avoid the spread of misleading information about political concerns and the COVID-19 epidemic.

According to Psaki, the White House continues to push for the repeal of Section 230, a rule that protects online corporations from liability for user-submitted content, as well as more anti-trust and transparency enforcement against digital giants.

"We engage regularly with all social media platforms about steps that can be taken," Psaki added. "That has continued, and I'm sure will continue, but there are also reforms that we think Congress could take."

Watch WION, Live:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has successfully purchased Twitter for $44 billion. The deal will give the world's richest person control of the social media platform populated by millions of users and global leaders.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has successfully purchased Twitter for $44 billion. The deal will give the world's richest person control of the social media platform populated by millions of users and global leaders. Now that the Tesla CEO has purchased Twitter, the US government has expressed some concerns. During a Monday press briefing, the White House said that US President Joe Biden was concerned about the power that large social media outlets hold. Also read | WION explains: The Elon Musk-Twitter controversy Dismissing that this concern had anything to do with the billionaire, spokesperson Jen Psaki said the White House would not comment on an individual transaction. "Our concerns are not new," said Psaki. "No matter who owns or runs Twitter, the President has long been concerned about the power of large social media platforms, that power they have over our everyday lives." She added that Biden "has long argued that tech platforms must be held accountable for the harm they cause." Watch | Elon Musk's mission Twitter: Musk to seal the deal with Twitter? Twitter shares jump over 3% Just a few hours ago on Monday, Musk successfully clinched a deal to purchase micro-blogging site Twitter for $44 billion. His takeover of Twitter is the culmination of a whirlwind of announcements and counter-announcements, punctuated by gleefully fired punches at the company, that too on its own platform. Musk's new character as a social media tyrant is sure to stoke a debate over his political leanings, corporate practices, and outsized personality. Even as he touts himself as an advocate of free speech, he is known to be libertarian, anti-woke, and impulsive. His critics describe him as autocratic and bullying. Also read | 'That is what free speech means': Elon Musk's appeal to 'worst critics' as he nears deal with Twitter Officials in the Biden administration believe that more vigilance will help to avoid the spread of misleading information about political concerns and the COVID-19 epidemic. According to Psaki, the White House continues to push for the repeal of Section 230, a rule that protects online corporations from liability for user-submitted content, as well as more anti-trust and transparency enforcement against digital giants. "We engage regularly with all social media platforms about steps that can be taken," Psaki added. "That has continued, and I'm sure will continue, but there are also reforms that we think Congress could take." Watch WION, Live: (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk takes over Twitter: White House says concerned over 'power of large social media platforms'

War is made up of more than two sides battling for victory; it also includes hundreds of thousands of refugees fighting for their lives.

Ukraine is Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.&nbsp;

The United Nations predicted Tuesday that more than eight million Ukrainians may flee as refugees this year. The organisation has also doubled its relief request for those trapped in the war-torn country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-defence-ministry-investigating-russian-hack-targeting-its-army-recruits-473963" hreflang="en">United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits</a>

More than 5.2 million Ukrainians have already fled the nation in the two months since Russia launched its full-fledged invasion on February 24.

The UN refugee agency had predicted that up to four million people would migrate this year and had initially estimated that $1.85 billion would be required to support refugees in neighbouring countries.

On March 1, the United Nations again issued an urgent appeal for $1.1 billion to support six million people within the country over the next three months.

Watch | Russian rockets target residential buildings in Kharkiv; 5 dead, several injured

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-rockets-target-residential-buildings-in-kharkiv-5-dead-several-injured-473950/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now, on Tuesday, the UN's humanitarian office, OCHA, said it estimates that more than $2.25 billion is needed to meet the country's growing requirements and that the appealed amount would last through August.

This is significant because it implies the UN's humanitarian agency has more than doubled its estimate for the amount of money required to help people within Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-of-world-war-iii-is-real-warns-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-473854" hreflang="en">Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov</a>

In Ukraine, the number of individuals who require humanitarian assistance has also risen to 15.7 million, up from 12 million previously.

UNHCR spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo told reporters in Geneva that the new predicted number was reached "in collaboration with the authorities and neighbouring countries."&nbsp;

"But it is important to remember that this situation is highly dynamic," she added.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

War is made up of more than two sides battling for victory; it also includes hundreds of thousands of refugees fighting for their lives. Ukraine is Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.

War is made up of more than two sides battling for victory; it also includes hundreds of thousands of refugees fighting for their lives. Ukraine is Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II. The United Nations predicted Tuesday that more than eight million Ukrainians may flee as refugees this year. The organisation has also doubled its relief request for those trapped in the war-torn country. Also read | United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits More than 5.2 million Ukrainians have already fled the nation in the two months since Russia launched its full-fledged invasion on February 24. The UN refugee agency had predicted that up to four million people would migrate this year and had initially estimated that $1.85 billion would be required to support refugees in neighbouring countries. On March 1, the United Nations again issued an urgent appeal for $1.1 billion to support six million people within the country over the next three months. Watch | Russian rockets target residential buildings in Kharkiv; 5 dead, several injured Now, on Tuesday, the UN's humanitarian office, OCHA, said it estimates that more than $2.25 billion is needed to meet the country's growing requirements and that the appealed amount would last through August. This is significant because it implies the UN's humanitarian agency has more than doubled its estimate for the amount of money required to help people within Ukraine. Also read | Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov In Ukraine, the number of individuals who require humanitarian assistance has also risen to 15.7 million, up from 12 million previously. UNHCR spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo told reporters in Geneva that the new predicted number was reached "in collaboration with the authorities and neighbouring countries." "But it is important to remember that this situation is highly dynamic," she added. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

UN expects 8 million refugees to flee Ukraine this year, doubles its appeal for funds

It has been several weeks since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Now, the US Secretaries are going to visit Kyiv today.

US Secretaries to visit Kyiv today: Zelensky seeks heavy weapons from US

United States is further helping the warn-torn country to fight Russian invasion. Joe Biden will be providing Ukraine with another $500 MN to help continue with critical operations.

United States extends $500 MN aid to help Kyiv run government

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is visiting India - as the British Parliament discusses his political future. Can a trip to India revive Johnson's fortunes? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Can a trip to India revive Johnson's fortunes

With Russian forces claiming to have taken control of Ukrainian city of Mariupol, there are reports of people being trapped in the city. Several Ukrainian defenders are also reportedly trapped inside Azovstal power plant. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said there are defenders still inside Mariupol. Is this the end of battle in the besieged city?

Mariupol: Is this end of battle? What Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelensky, Joe Biden are saying

Since he took office in 2021 and in the past few days in particular, US President Joe Biden, 79, has been the butt of online jokes and trolling for his so-called gaffes.

Sample some of the latest: Biden calls Vice President Kamala Harris, the president. Biden has bird poop on his jacket but carries on with his speech. Biden speaks about Afghanistan and Pakistan but is diverted away by an Easter bunny. Biden appears to shake hands in the air with nobody, yet goes ahead with it anyway.

But look at these facts. 
 
What happens when a person ages? 
 
Human cognitive activity declines with age but there are variations. Generally, it starts at age 60 but some people can be fine even into their 80s. 
 
Brain power declines with age with shrinking of the organ starting from the 30s or 40s in some cases and worsening from the 60s onward in most cases.

Our memory - short term and long term - starts fading, and it’s perfectly normal and a consequence of lesser brain activity caused partly by the shrinkage.

Age-related forgetfulness is not always a cause of Alzheimers’ disease or any such ailment. It just happens.

And the involuntary loss of muscle mass, which in fact starts in the 30s, becomes worse in the 60s onwards and leads to several mishaps and accidents that lead the elderly to be less active, wheel-chair bound, or bed-ridden. 
 
Bone density starts to decline in the 50s. 
 
I can go on, but you get the idea.

Now, what's a typical day for the president of the United States? 
 
Much of it is not known to the public, but let's take a random day from what is.

The schedule of Biden on 21 April 2022 looks something like this: 
 
9:00 AM -Receives the President’s Daily Brief; 9:45 AM&nbsp; - Provides an update on Russia and Ukraine at Roosevelt Room; 10:20 AM - Departs the White House en route Joint Base Andrews; 10:40 AM - Departs Joint Base Andrews en route Portland, Oregon; 3:40 PM - Arrives in Portland, Oregon; 4:05 PM - Visits Portland International Airport ; 5:10 PM - Delivers remarks on the investment that has been made thanks in part to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law; 6:30 PM - Participates in a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee; 7:25 PM - Departs Portland, Oregon en route Seattle, Washington; 8:15 PM - Arrives in Seattle, Washington; 9:30 PM - Participates in a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee

I’ve cut some parts to bore you less, but you get the point. It’s a 12-hour work day. Some days are less packed than the others, but it’s generally a busy schedule.

This is in addition to the many other news interviews, speeches, public appearances, planned and unplanned media interactions.

Biden is no stranger to any of these. He is one of the longest-serving senators, and is not new to the White House, as he has been vice president before.

It's OK to make a political point against him. But to stalk his every move and troll him for being an elderly man smacks of ageism. 
 
Such micro-analyses may have cost Hillary Clinton the presidency when she contested against Donald Trump. When on the grueling campaign trail, a video caught her appearing to faint. She said she is fine, but the damage had been done, and may have contributed to a perception she's not fit to be president. Ageism, mixed with sexism, is a deadly cocktail. 
 
Similar attacks were made about Trump being overweight, having lost his marbles and being out of touch. But then, Trump kind of invited such criticism, almost reveling in it, as long as he is the headline. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-biden-interrupted-by-easter-bunny-while-answering-questions-on-afghanistan-471978">Watch: Biden interrupted by Easter Bunny while answering questions on Afghanistan</a> 
 
Old people can rule

The issue here is the public perception that elderly people are senile. So let’s now look at the oldest heads of governments and heads of state. 
 
A random check reveals many of them ruled past 80. 
 
Queen Elizabeth II of Britain just turned 96. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is 83. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas is 86. The age range of the top 10 oldest leaders currently living and ruling is from 96 to 83. I rest my case.

May be the cultural insensitivity towards older people is what's reflected in the constant attention to Biden's gaffes. 
 
So, what is ageism? 
 
Simply put, it is the mental or attitudinal bullying of people based on their age. It may be active, passive, or passive-aggressive. 
 
World Health Organization defines ageism as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” 
 
We live in a youth-obsessed society. Looking younger and fitter than your age is a million-dollar industry. 
 
At the same time, we also live in a world where several countries have ageing populations, and it’s also an era of medical advancements that makes longevity possible. 
 
And the younger ones should not forget that, with some luck, we will all reach where Biden is now.

Watch | How did Joe Biden become so unpopular?

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(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Since he took office in 2021 and in the past few days in particular, US President Joe Biden, 79, has been the butt of online jokes and trolling for his so-called gaffes.

Since he took office in 2021 and in the past few days in particular, US President Joe Biden, 79, has been the butt of online jokes and trolling for his so-called gaffes. Sample some of the latest: Biden calls Vice President Kamala Harris, the president. Biden has bird poop on his jacket but carries on with his speech. Biden speaks about Afghanistan and Pakistan but is diverted away by an Easter bunny. Biden appears to shake hands in the air with nobody, yet goes ahead with it anyway. But look at these facts. What happens when a person ages? Human cognitive activity declines with age but there are variations. Generally, it starts at age 60 but some people can be fine even into their 80s. Brain power declines with age with shrinking of the organ starting from the 30s or 40s in some cases and worsening from the 60s onward in most cases. Our memory - short term and long term - starts fading, and it’s perfectly normal and a consequence of lesser brain activity caused partly by the shrinkage. Age-related forgetfulness is not always a cause of Alzheimers’ disease or any such ailment. It just happens. And the involuntary loss of muscle mass, which in fact starts in the 30s, becomes worse in the 60s onwards and leads to several mishaps and accidents that lead the elderly to be less active, wheel-chair bound, or bed-ridden. Bone density starts to decline in the 50s. I can go on, but you get the idea. Now, what's a typical day for the president of the United States? Much of it is not known to the public, but let's take a random day from what is. The schedule of Biden on 21 April 2022 looks something like this: 9:00 AM -Receives the President’s Daily Brief; 9:45 AM - Provides an update on Russia and Ukraine at Roosevelt Room; 10:20 AM - Departs the White House en route Joint Base Andrews; 10:40 AM - Departs Joint Base Andrews en route Portland, Oregon; 3:40 PM - Arrives in Portland, Oregon; 4:05 PM - Visits Portland International Airport ; 5:10 PM - Delivers remarks on the investment that has been made thanks in part to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law; 6:30 PM - Participates in a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee; 7:25 PM - Departs Portland, Oregon en route Seattle, Washington; 8:15 PM - Arrives in Seattle, Washington; 9:30 PM - Participates in a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee I’ve cut some parts to bore you less, but you get the point. It’s a 12-hour work day. Some days are less packed than the others, but it’s generally a busy schedule. This is in addition to the many other news interviews, speeches, public appearances, planned and unplanned media interactions. Biden is no stranger to any of these. He is one of the longest-serving senators, and is not new to the White House, as he has been vice president before. It's OK to make a political point against him. But to stalk his every move and troll him for being an elderly man smacks of ageism. Such micro-analyses may have cost Hillary Clinton the presidency when she contested against Donald Trump. When on the grueling campaign trail, a video caught her appearing to faint. She said she is fine, but the damage had been done, and may have contributed to a perception she's not fit to be president. Ageism, mixed with sexism, is a deadly cocktail. Similar attacks were made about Trump being overweight, having lost his marbles and being out of touch. But then, Trump kind of invited such criticism, almost reveling in it, as long as he is the headline. Watch: Biden interrupted by Easter Bunny while answering questions on Afghanistan Old people can rule The issue here is the public perception that elderly people are senile. So let’s now look at the oldest heads of governments and heads of state. A random check reveals many of them ruled past 80. Queen Elizabeth II of Britain just turned 96. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is 83. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas is 86. The age range of the top 10 oldest leaders currently living and ruling is from 96 to 83. I rest my case. May be the cultural insensitivity towards older people is what's reflected in the constant attention to Biden's gaffes. So, what is ageism? Simply put, it is the mental or attitudinal bullying of people based on their age. It may be active, passive, or passive-aggressive. World Health Organization defines ageism as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” We live in a youth-obsessed society. Looking younger and fitter than your age is a million-dollar industry. At the same time, we also live in a world where several countries have ageing populations, and it’s also an era of medical advancements that makes longevity possible. And the younger ones should not forget that, with some luck, we will all reach where Biden is now. Watch | How did Joe Biden become so unpopular? (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Gaffe-porn: Are those making fun of Joe Biden ageist?

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that it is restoring parts of a bedrock environmental law, once again requiring that climate impacts be considered and local communities have input before federal agencies approve highways, pipelines and other major projects.

The administration has resurrected requirements of the 50-year-old National Environmental Policy Act that had been removed by President Donald Trump, who complained that they slowed down the development of mines, road expansions and similar projects.

The final rule announced Tuesday would require federal agencies to conduct an analysis of the greenhouse gases that could be emitted over the lifetime of a proposed project, as well as how climate change might affect new highways, bridges and other infrastructure, according to the White House Council on Environmental Quality. The rule, which takes effect in 30 days, would also ensure agencies give communities directly affected by projects a greater role in the approval process.

Brenda Mallory, chairwoman of the council, described the regulation as restoring “basic community safeguards” that the Trump administration had eliminated.

“Patching these holes in the environmental review process will help projects get built faster, be more resilient, and provide greater benefits to people who live nearby,” she said in a statement.

Administration officials said the new rule would not have major immediate impacts since the Biden administration had already been weighing the climate change impacts of proposed projects. But it would force future administrations to abide by the process or undertake a lengthy regulatory process and possibly legal challenges to again undo it.

The National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, was signed into law by President Richard Nixon in 1970, after several environmental disasters.

Under the changes announced Tuesday, agencies would have to consider the direct, indirect and cumulative impacts of a decision — including the effect a new project would have on neighborhoods already burdened by pollution.

The administration’s changes also encourage agencies to study alternatives to projects that are opposed by local communities, and it says the law’s requirements are “a floor, rather than a ceiling” when it comes to environmental reviews.

Republicans and some business groups are hostile to the changes, arguing that additional reviews would delay the development of badly needed infrastructure.

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that it is restoring parts of a bedrock environmental law, once again requiring that climate impacts be considered and local communities have input before federal agencies approve highways, pipelines and other major projects.

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that it is restoring parts of a bedrock environmental law, once again requiring that climate impacts be considered and local communities have input before federal agencies approve highways, pipelines and other major projects. The administration has resurrected requirements of the 50-year-old National Environmental Policy Act that had been removed by President Donald Trump, who complained that they slowed down the development of mines, road expansions and similar projects. The final rule announced Tuesday would require federal agencies to conduct an analysis of the greenhouse gases that could be emitted over the lifetime of a proposed project, as well as how climate change might affect new highways, bridges and other infrastructure, according to the White House Council on Environmental Quality. The rule, which takes effect in 30 days, would also ensure agencies give communities directly affected by projects a greater role in the approval process. Brenda Mallory, chairwoman of the council, described the regulation as restoring “basic community safeguards” that the Trump administration had eliminated. “Patching these holes in the environmental review process will help projects get built faster, be more resilient, and provide greater benefits to people who live nearby,” she said in a statement. Administration officials said the new rule would not have major immediate impacts since the Biden administration had already been weighing the climate change impacts of proposed projects. But it would force future administrations to abide by the process or undertake a lengthy regulatory process and possibly legal challenges to again undo it. The National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, was signed into law by President Richard Nixon in 1970, after several environmental disasters. Under the changes announced Tuesday, agencies would have to consider the direct, indirect and cumulative impacts of a decision — including the effect a new project would have on neighborhoods already burdened by pollution. The administration’s changes also encourage agencies to study alternatives to projects that are opposed by local communities, and it says the law’s requirements are “a floor, rather than a ceiling” when it comes to environmental reviews. Republicans and some business groups are hostile to the changes, arguing that additional reviews would delay the development of badly needed infrastructure.

Biden restores climate to landmark environmental law, reversing Trump

US is all set to welcome and host G20 financial leaders amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia will join G20 meetings virtually.

Washington, D.C. to welcome G20 financial leaders, Russia to join G20 meetings virtually

US President Joe Biden held the traditional Eastern Egg roll at the White House on Monday. The Easter Egg roll was held after a hiatus of two years due to coronavirus pandemic. Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden welcomed families to the South Lawn.

Joe Biden holds traditional Easter Egg roll at White House after gap of 2 years

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview, asked United States President Joe Biden to visit the war-torn nation and witness the destruction caused by Russian forces. Zelensky stated that the visit will be good for Biden to do it as a leader of the US.&nbsp;

In an interview with CNN that aired Sunday (April 17), Zelensky was asked about Biden's plans to visit Ukraine. The Ukrainian President said, "I think he will. I mean, it's his decision, of course."&nbsp;

"And about the safety situation, it depends. I mean that. But I think he's the leader of the United States, and that's why he should come here to see," Zelensky added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-calls-for-anti-radiation-medicine-amid-russian-nuclear-threat-471761">Zelensky calls for 'anti-radiation medicine' amid Russian nuclear threat</a>

Meanwhile, important to note that the US has already weighed in on the reports and Biden's speculative plans to visit Ukraine. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on April 10 that Biden has "no plans" to visit Ukraine.&nbsp;

Sullivan had told NBC, "President Biden doesn't currently have any plans to travel to Kyiv. But I will tell you he sits in the Oval Office and in the Situation Room on a daily basis, organising and coordinating the world when it comes to the delivery of weapons."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/city-still-has-not-fallen-mariupol-may-be-a-red-line-in-talks-says-ukraine-471755">'City still has not fallen': Mariupol may be a red line in talks, says Ukraine</a>

Recently, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Kyiv and met with Zelensky. The meeting had come as a surprise to the world. After his visit, many speculated that other leaders might also visit Ukraine.&nbsp;

Johnson's extremely crucial visit to Ukraine was revealed to the world when the photos of the British PM walking on the streets of the Ukrainian capital were published. It was not announced earlier.&nbsp;

A Downing Street spokesman had said: "The prime minister has travelled to Ukraine to meet President Zelensky in person, in a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian people."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia conflict: Russian missile attack kills 5 In Ukraine's Kharkiv

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview, asked United States President Joe Biden to visit the war-torn nation and witness the destruction caused by Russian forces.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview, asked United States President Joe Biden to visit the war-torn nation and witness the destruction caused by Russian forces. Zelensky stated that the visit will be good for Biden to do it as a leader of the US. In an interview with CNN that aired Sunday (April 17), Zelensky was asked about Biden's plans to visit Ukraine. The Ukrainian President said, "I think he will. I mean, it's his decision, of course." "And about the safety situation, it depends. I mean that. But I think he's the leader of the United States, and that's why he should come here to see," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | Zelensky calls for 'anti-radiation medicine' amid Russian nuclear threat Meanwhile, important to note that the US has already weighed in on the reports and Biden's speculative plans to visit Ukraine. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on April 10 that Biden has "no plans" to visit Ukraine. Sullivan had told NBC, "President Biden doesn't currently have any plans to travel to Kyiv. But I will tell you he sits in the Oval Office and in the Situation Room on a daily basis, organising and coordinating the world when it comes to the delivery of weapons." ALSO READ | 'City still has not fallen': Mariupol may be a red line in talks, says Ukraine Recently, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Kyiv and met with Zelensky. The meeting had come as a surprise to the world. After his visit, many speculated that other leaders might also visit Ukraine. Johnson's extremely crucial visit to Ukraine was revealed to the world when the photos of the British PM walking on the streets of the Ukrainian capital were published. It was not announced earlier. A Downing Street spokesman had said: "The prime minister has travelled to Ukraine to meet President Zelensky in person, in a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian people." WATCH | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Russian missile attack kills 5 In Ukraine's Kharkiv ×

'Come here to see': Volodymyr Zelensky asks Joe Biden to visit Ukraine

On Monday, at least seven people were killed, and another 12 have been injured, including a toddler in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv after it was hit by a Russian missile bombardment early in the morning, a strike that comes ahead of the invading Russian forces' fresh assault on the country's eastern side.

The onslaught was a terrible extension of the war into a city that has become a haven for thousands of refugees escaping from the east, as well as a vital supply and logistics hub.

"5 aimed missile strikes on Lviv," Mayor of Lviv Andriy Sadovy said in an update on his official Twitter account this morning, adding that authorities are seeking more detailed information.&nbsp;

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According to Lviv Regional Governor Maksym Kozytskyy, three of which damaged military infrastructure installations and one of which hit a tyre shop.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-fighters-who-fought-against-islamic-state-sign-up-to-fight-alongside-russian-troops-in-ukraine-report-471848">Also read | Syrian fighters who fought against Islamic State sign up to fight alongside Russian troops in Ukraine: Report</a> 
 
Firefighters were putting out fires caused by the hits, he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/city-still-has-not-fallen-mariupol-may-be-a-red-line-in-talks-says-ukraine-471755" hreflang="en">'City still has not fallen': Mariupol may be a red line in talks, says Ukraine</a>

According to officials, the strikes occurred near railway facilities.

Lviv's transportation hubs have been critical in evacuating Ukrainians escaping the conflict. 
 
Watch | Ukraine-Russia war: What are anti-radiation medicines? Side effects &amp; availability

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On Monday, at least seven people were killed, and another 12 have been injured, including a toddler in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv after it was hit by a Russian missile bombardment early in the morning, a strike that comes ahead of the invading Russian forces' fresh assault on the country's eastern side.

On Monday, at least seven people were killed, and another 12 have been injured, including a toddler in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv after it was hit by a Russian missile bombardment early in the morning, a strike that comes ahead of the invading Russian forces' fresh assault on the country's eastern side. The onslaught was a terrible extension of the war into a city that has become a haven for thousands of refugees escaping from the east, as well as a vital supply and logistics hub. "5 aimed missile strikes on Lviv," Mayor of Lviv Andriy Sadovy said in an update on his official Twitter account this morning, adding that authorities are seeking more detailed information. According to Lviv Regional Governor Maksym Kozytskyy, three of which damaged military infrastructure installations and one of which hit a tyre shop. Also read | Syrian fighters who fought against Islamic State sign up to fight alongside Russian troops in Ukraine: Report Firefighters were putting out fires caused by the hits, he said. Also read | 'City still has not fallen': Mariupol may be a red line in talks, says Ukraine According to officials, the strikes occurred near railway facilities. Lviv's transportation hubs have been critical in evacuating Ukrainians escaping the conflict. Watch | Ukraine-Russia war: What are anti-radiation medicines? Side effects & availability

Five 'powerful' missiles hit Lviv as Russia bombards multiple Ukrainian cities

US Vice-President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff together earned more than twice of that of US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden in the year 2021, it has emerged. The tax return documents released on Friday (April 15) have made the detail public.&nbsp;

As per the records, Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden earned USD 610,702 in Biden's first year as president of the US. The couple paid USD 150,439 in federal income taxes in the same year. This brings the rate of income tax to 24.6 per cent. It is well over the average rate of interest for all Americans (14 per cent).

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US Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff earned USD 1,655,563 in 2021 as per the tax records. They paid taxes of USD 523,371 at the rate of 31.6 per cent. They also paid USD 120,517 in California income tax and USD 2,044 in New York income tax.

This is the second year Biden has released his tax records. In the run-up to 2020 US Presidential Election, Biden released his tax records going back 22 years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-earned-more-than-president-joe-biden-in-2020-406421">Also read |&nbsp;US Vice President Kamala Harris earned more than President Joe Biden in 2020</a>

This was in stark contrast to former US president Donald Trump who has steadfastly declined to release his tax records claiming that he was under audit. He face strong allegations of tax avoidance from his opponents.

Bidens gave USD 17,394 to 10 different charities in 2021. The largest gift was $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, a nonprofit that works to combat child abuse named for their son, Beau, who died of brain cancer in 2015 at age 46.

The Bidens also released their 2021 Delaware income tax return and reported paying $30,765 in state income tax there. The first lady released a Virginia return showing she paid $2,721 in Virginia state income tax. 
&nbsp;

US Vice-President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff together earned more than twice of that of US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden in the year 2021, it has emerged.

US Vice-President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff together earned more than twice of that of US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden in the year 2021, it has emerged. The tax return documents released on Friday (April 15) have made the detail public. As per the records, Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden earned USD 610,702 in Biden's first year as president of the US. The couple paid USD 150,439 in federal income taxes in the same year. This brings the rate of income tax to 24.6 per cent. It is well over the average rate of interest for all Americans (14 per cent). US Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff earned USD 1,655,563 in 2021 as per the tax records. They paid taxes of USD 523,371 at the rate of 31.6 per cent. They also paid USD 120,517 in California income tax and USD 2,044 in New York income tax. This is the second year Biden has released his tax records. In the run-up to 2020 US Presidential Election, Biden released his tax records going back 22 years. Also read | US Vice President Kamala Harris earned more than President Joe Biden in 2020 This was in stark contrast to former US president Donald Trump who has steadfastly declined to release his tax records claiming that he was under audit. He face strong allegations of tax avoidance from his opponents. Bidens gave USD 17,394 to 10 different charities in 2021. The largest gift was $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, a nonprofit that works to combat child abuse named for their son, Beau, who died of brain cancer in 2015 at age 46. The Bidens also released their 2021 Delaware income tax return and reported paying $30,765 in state income tax there. The first lady released a Virginia return showing she paid $2,721 in Virginia state income tax.

Kamala Harris, husband earned twice as much as Bidens last year

US border authorities have made a record number of arrests, and over 210,000 migrants have been put behind bars. This is the highest monthly tally in two decades. Joe Biden's good intentions have backfired because many people believe that Biden's easing has prompted more illegal migrations.

US witnesses rise in illegal migration, arrests 210,000 migrants at Mexico border

Democrats have raised concern over Biden's approval ratings as Gen Z lost confidence in Biden's administration. Biden's approval ratings are at the lowest since January 2021.

US President Joe Biden's approval ratings fall to 42%, loses support of Gen Z

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times.

Let's find out more.

What exactly is genocide?

According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, it is defined as crimes done with the goal to eliminate, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.

Killing members of a group, causing substantial bodily or mental injury to them, establishing conditions meant to destroy them, preventing births, or forcibly transferring children to other groups are all examples of genocide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-armenia-to-myanmar-accusations-of-genocide-in-the-past-464634">From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past</a>

What criteria are used to determine genocide?

Prosecutors must first show that the victims were members of a distinct national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in order to prove genocide. This rule does not apply to organisations targeted based on their political ideas.

"Genocide is a difficult crime to prove. Parties have to bring a lot to the table," explained Melanie O'Brien, head of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, citing the combined need of demonstrating intent, targeting a protected group, and crimes such as murder or forcible removal of minors.

Who made the allegation against Russia?

Multiple people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden and even UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have accused Russian forces of genocide, citing evidence of rape, torture, and executions in districts near Kyiv regained by Ukrainian troops earlier this month.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden

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"Yes, I called it genocide because it has become clearer and clearer that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of being able to be Ukrainian and the evidence is mounting," said Biden.

The scope of the horrors "doesn't look far short of genocide," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week.

What is Russia's response to these accusations?

Moscow claims the West fabricated evidence to defame its troops, calling the war on its smaller neighbour "a special operation" to stop genocide against Russian speakers in Ukraine.

Will the&nbsp;allegations against Russia&nbsp;be investigated?

In February, the International Criminal Court launched a probe into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine. It has authority over genocide as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-ukraine-and-russia-to-fight-again-but-over-genocide-claim-459711">At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’</a>

Are there any old cases of genocide?

Yes, the international courts have had three cases meet their threshold:

-The Cambodian Khmer Rouge slaughter of&nbsp;minority Cham and Vietnamese people in the 1970s. An estimated&nbsp;1.7 million people were murdered in this genocide.

-&nbsp;Rwanda's mass massacre of Tutsis in 1994, which resulted in the deaths of 800,000 people.

-The 1995 Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which claimed the lives of 8,000 Muslim men and boys.

Since the 1990s, the US administration has declared genocide in seven situations: Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Sudan's Darfur area, Islamic State's massacres, particularly against the Yezidi, Myanmar's crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Only time will tell if the Russian violence against Ukraine will be categorized as a 'genocide'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times.

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times. Let's find out more. What exactly is genocide? According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, it is defined as crimes done with the goal to eliminate, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group. Killing members of a group, causing substantial bodily or mental injury to them, establishing conditions meant to destroy them, preventing births, or forcibly transferring children to other groups are all examples of genocide. Also read | From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past What criteria are used to determine genocide? Prosecutors must first show that the victims were members of a distinct national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in order to prove genocide. This rule does not apply to organisations targeted based on their political ideas. "Genocide is a difficult crime to prove. Parties have to bring a lot to the table," explained Melanie O'Brien, head of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, citing the combined need of demonstrating intent, targeting a protected group, and crimes such as murder or forcible removal of minors. Who made the allegation against Russia? Multiple people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden and even UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have accused Russian forces of genocide, citing evidence of rape, torture, and executions in districts near Kyiv regained by Ukrainian troops earlier this month. Watch | Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden "Yes, I called it genocide because it has become clearer and clearer that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of being able to be Ukrainian and the evidence is mounting," said Biden. The scope of the horrors "doesn't look far short of genocide," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week. What is Russia's response to these accusations? Moscow claims the West fabricated evidence to defame its troops, calling the war on its smaller neighbour "a special operation" to stop genocide against Russian speakers in Ukraine. Will the allegations against Russia be investigated? In February, the International Criminal Court launched a probe into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine. It has authority over genocide as well. Also read | At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ Are there any old cases of genocide? Yes, the international courts have had three cases meet their threshold: -The Cambodian Khmer Rouge slaughter of minority Cham and Vietnamese people in the 1970s. An estimated 1.7 million people were murdered in this genocide. - Rwanda's mass massacre of Tutsis in 1994, which resulted in the deaths of 800,000 people. -The 1995 Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which claimed the lives of 8,000 Muslim men and boys. Since the 1990s, the US administration has declared genocide in seven situations: Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Sudan's Darfur area, Islamic State's massacres, particularly against the Yezidi, Myanmar's crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Only time will tell if the Russian violence against Ukraine will be categorized as a 'genocide'. (With inputs from agencies)

WION explains: The ultimate, yet hard to prove war crime called 'genocide'

The job approval ratings of United States President Joe Biden have dropped since the start of his presidency among young generations - the Gen Z and millennials - as per the new Gallup poll released on Thursday (April 14).&nbsp;

Gallup released the data after interviewing around 6,000 adults in the first and third of these periods. The report states that over 2,000 are in the middle period.&nbsp;

As per the poll, 39 per cent of Generation Z respondents (born 1997-2004) approved of the job Biden has done as president. But now there's a decline of 21 points.&nbsp;

When Biden first took office, 60 per cent of Gen Z respondents had approved of his handling of the job.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/gujarat-first-stop-on-uk-pm-boris-johnsons-india-visit-india-highly-valued-strategic-partner-for-the-uk-471574">Gujarat first stop on UK PM Boris Johnson's India visit: 'India highly valued strategic partner for the UK'</a>

On the other hand, 41 per cent of Millennials (born 1981-1996) approve of Biden's job as president. But just like the Gen Z, there's a decline in this category as well. In January-June 2021 poll, 60 per cent of respondents had approved of his job.&nbsp;

During his initial days in the White House, 60 per cent of both Generation Z adults and millennials approved of the job he was doing.&nbsp;

The approval kept falling ever since as coronavirus (COVID-19) and withdrawal from Afghanistan in late August 2021 might have acted as catalysts for such a fall in ratings.&nbsp;

Important to note that Biden's approval rating held steady among baby boomers (born 1946-1964) and traditionalists (born before 1946).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-supervises-new-weapon-test-to-enhance-nations-tactical-capabilities-471531">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervises new weapon test to enhance nation's 'tactical capabilities'</a>

A part of the report noted: "All generational groups have become less approving of Biden since the summer, after the troubled U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in late August 2021, with the exception of traditionalists, whose approval has not changed."&nbsp;

Apart from a decline in approval rating among various generations, Black and Hispanic adults also show a significant fall. The reports show that during the start of his term, 87 per cent of Non-Hispanic Black adults approved of the job he was doing. That fell to 74 per cent in the summer of 2021 and is now at 67 per cent.&nbsp;

The report further states that among Hispanics, Biden's job approval has slumped from 73 per cent in early 2021 to 52 per cent now — a 21-point fall.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Elon Musk's Twitter play sparks controversies, Tesla owner to modify social media for his interests?

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The job approval ratings of United States President Joe Biden have dropped since the start of his presidency among young generations - the Gen Z and millennials - as per the new Gallup poll released on Thursday (April 14).

The job approval ratings of United States President Joe Biden have dropped since the start of his presidency among young generations - the Gen Z and millennials - as per the new Gallup poll released on Thursday (April 14). Gallup released the data after interviewing around 6,000 adults in the first and third of these periods. The report states that over 2,000 are in the middle period. As per the poll, 39 per cent of Generation Z respondents (born 1997-2004) approved of the job Biden has done as president. But now there's a decline of 21 points. When Biden first took office, 60 per cent of Gen Z respondents had approved of his handling of the job. ALSO READ | Gujarat first stop on UK PM Boris Johnson's India visit: 'India highly valued strategic partner for the UK' On the other hand, 41 per cent of Millennials (born 1981-1996) approve of Biden's job as president. But just like the Gen Z, there's a decline in this category as well. In January-June 2021 poll, 60 per cent of respondents had approved of his job. During his initial days in the White House, 60 per cent of both Generation Z adults and millennials approved of the job he was doing. The approval kept falling ever since as coronavirus (COVID-19) and withdrawal from Afghanistan in late August 2021 might have acted as catalysts for such a fall in ratings. Important to note that Biden's approval rating held steady among baby boomers (born 1946-1964) and traditionalists (born before 1946). ALSO READ | North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervises new weapon test to enhance nation's 'tactical capabilities' A part of the report noted: "All generational groups have become less approving of Biden since the summer, after the troubled U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in late August 2021, with the exception of traditionalists, whose approval has not changed." Apart from a decline in approval rating among various generations, Black and Hispanic adults also show a significant fall. The reports show that during the start of his term, 87 per cent of Non-Hispanic Black adults approved of the job he was doing. That fell to 74 per cent in the summer of 2021 and is now at 67 per cent. The report further states that among Hispanics, Biden's job approval has slumped from 73 per cent in early 2021 to 52 per cent now — a 21-point fall. WATCH | Elon Musk's Twitter play sparks controversies, Tesla owner to modify social media for his interests? ×

A matter of concern? Decline in Joe Biden's approval rating among Gen Z and millennials

Recently, US President Joe Biden announced $800 mn worth of military aid to Ukraine. Russia sent a diplomatic note to the United States to stop arming Ukraine. To get more details, we're joined by Fred Weir, Russian Affairs Expert.

Russia warns US to stop arming Ukraine, sends formal letter warning

Did Joe Biden 'shake hands' with thin air? A viral video claims to show Biden shaking hands with 'nobody'. American Citizens have gone on a rampage, they're calling Biden a 'gaffe machine'. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Biden trolled for 'shaking hands' with thin air

A state-run Saudi TV network openly ridiculed Joe Biden & U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in a comedy sketch. Molly Gambhir tells you how.

Gravitas: 'Sleepy Joe' Saudi TV ridicules Joe Biden

President Joe Biden said Thursday he was considering sending senior US officials to Ukraine, in what would be a major show of support to Kyiv.

"We're making that decision now," Biden replied when asked if he would send officials to the war-torn European nation. He did not specify which officials might be under consideration.

In a brief back-and-forth with a reporter, Biden appeared to suggest he might also be willing to travel to Kyiv.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-putin-may-use-nuclear-weapons-says-cia-chief-471114">Desperate Putin may use nuclear weapons, says CIA chief</a>

When asked if he were ready to go, Biden said, "Yeah," although White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki ruled out that possibility as recently as Monday.

Potential US officials on any visit to Kyiv could include Secretary of State Antony Blinken or Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. State Department spokesman Ned Price declined to comment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moskva-russian-navys-black-sea-fleet-flagship-has-sunk-defence-ministry-471089">Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry</a>

Biden on Wednesday announced a new $800 million military aid package for Ukraine.

The Pentagon said it has been looking to provide Ukraine with weapons that would "give them a little more range and distance," with Kyiv girding for an escalation of Russia's offensive in the eastern Donbas region.

President Joe Biden said Thursday he was considering sending senior US officials to Ukraine, in what would be a major show of support to Kyiv. "We're making that decision now," Biden replied when asked if he would send officials to the war-torn European nation.

President Joe Biden said Thursday he was considering sending senior US officials to Ukraine, in what would be a major show of support to Kyiv. "We're making that decision now," Biden replied when asked if he would send officials to the war-torn European nation. He did not specify which officials might be under consideration. In a brief back-and-forth with a reporter, Biden appeared to suggest he might also be willing to travel to Kyiv. Also Read | Desperate Putin may use nuclear weapons, says CIA chief When asked if he were ready to go, Biden said, "Yeah," although White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki ruled out that possibility as recently as Monday. Potential US officials on any visit to Kyiv could include Secretary of State Antony Blinken or Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. State Department spokesman Ned Price declined to comment. Also Read | Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry Biden on Wednesday announced a new $800 million military aid package for Ukraine. The Pentagon said it has been looking to provide Ukraine with weapons that would "give them a little more range and distance," with Kyiv girding for an escalation of Russia's offensive in the eastern Donbas region.

Biden says US deciding on sending envoy to Ukraine

30 members of Congress have criticised the Joe Biden administration. United States officials have urged US President Joe Biden to rebalance ties with Saudi Arabia.

US officials urge Joe Biden to rebalance ties with Saudi Arabia

To provide security assistance to Ukraine, the United States on Wednesday (April 13) announced an additional $800 million in military aid for the war-torn country.&nbsp;

Important to note that the US is providing Ukraine with heavier, high-power capabilities equipment for the first time since Russia began its invasion.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden announced the latest military aid for Ukraine and shared its details. Previously also, the US has had sent military assistance and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

The new package includes 11 Mi-17 helicopters, 18 155mm howitzers, 40,000 artillery rounds, counter-artillery radars, 200 armoured personnel carriers and 300 additional "Switchblade" drones. This is the first time howitzers have been provided to Ukraine by the US.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-hit-russian-warship-with-neptune-missiles-russia-claims-otherwise-470848">Ukraine says it hit Russian warship with Neptune missiles, Russia claims it was ammunition explosion</a>

The US President had a telephonic conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. After the call, the White House released a statement revealing all the details.&nbsp;

"I just spoke with President Zelenskyy and shared with him that my Administration is authorizing an additional $800 million in weapons, ammunition, and other security assistance to Ukraine," Biden said.&nbsp;

He added, "As Russia prepares to intensify its attack in the Donbas region, the United States will continue to provide Ukraine with the capabilities to defend itself."&nbsp;

Biden says that the steady supply of weapons provided by the US and its allies have provided to Ukraine has been critical in resisting the Russian invasion.&nbsp;

He said, "It has helped ensure that Putin failed in his initial war aims to conquer and control Ukraine. We cannot rest now. As I assured President Zelenskyy, the American people will continue to stand with the brave Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viktor-medvedchuk-ukraine-captures-vladimir-putin-zelensky-offers-to-swap-him-for-captured-ukrainians-470643">Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians&nbsp;</a>

John Spencer, who is a retired US Army major and expert on urban warfare at the Madison Policy Forum think tank, weighed in on the latest military assistance.&nbsp;

He told Reuters: "In this phase, I think it is a shift in policy, say, absolutely we recognize that Ukraine needs the ability to fight Russia in the open and prevent basically their loss in Eastern Ukraine, right?"&nbsp;

"I think this is a shift in policy and recognizing the tools that are needed -- that's different, for sure," he added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

To provide security assistance to Ukraine, the United States on Wednesday (April 13) announced an additional $800 million in military aid for the war-torn country.

To provide security assistance to Ukraine, the United States on Wednesday (April 13) announced an additional $800 million in military aid for the war-torn country. Important to note that the US is providing Ukraine with heavier, high-power capabilities equipment for the first time since Russia began its invasion. US President Joe Biden announced the latest military aid for Ukraine and shared its details. Previously also, the US has had sent military assistance and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The new package includes 11 Mi-17 helicopters, 18 155mm howitzers, 40,000 artillery rounds, counter-artillery radars, 200 armoured personnel carriers and 300 additional "Switchblade" drones. This is the first time howitzers have been provided to Ukraine by the US. ALSO READ | Ukraine says it hit Russian warship with Neptune missiles, Russia claims it was ammunition explosion The US President had a telephonic conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. After the call, the White House released a statement revealing all the details. "I just spoke with President Zelenskyy and shared with him that my Administration is authorizing an additional $800 million in weapons, ammunition, and other security assistance to Ukraine," Biden said. He added, "As Russia prepares to intensify its attack in the Donbas region, the United States will continue to provide Ukraine with the capabilities to defend itself." Biden says that the steady supply of weapons provided by the US and its allies have provided to Ukraine has been critical in resisting the Russian invasion. He said, "It has helped ensure that Putin failed in his initial war aims to conquer and control Ukraine. We cannot rest now. As I assured President Zelenskyy, the American people will continue to stand with the brave Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom." ALSO READ | Viktor Medvedchuk: Ukraine captures Vladimir Putin ally; Zelensky offers to swap him for captured Ukrainians John Spencer, who is a retired US Army major and expert on urban warfare at the Madison Policy Forum think tank, weighed in on the latest military assistance. He told Reuters: "In this phase, I think it is a shift in policy, say, absolutely we recognize that Ukraine needs the ability to fight Russia in the open and prevent basically their loss in Eastern Ukraine, right?" "I think this is a shift in policy and recognizing the tools that are needed -- that's different, for sure," he added. WATCH | Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO × (With inputs from agencies)

In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine

Saudi state tv aired an episode that openly ridiculed US president Joe Biden and that program goes viral on the internet. In the comedy sketch, Biden's character appeared sleepy and forgetful.

Saudi state TV airs episode that openly ridicules Joe Biden

Members of Joe Biden's team have defended 'genocide' remarks made by US President Biden. However, the US state department has declined to comment on Biden.

Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the show, Biden is portrayed as a forgetful old man who fell asleep at the podium. He was woken up by a woman, who is apparently playing the role of US Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-800-million-in-military-assistance-us-gives-heavier-high-power-capabilities-equipment-to-ukraine-470855">In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine</a>

In the one-minute clip, reel-life Biden can be seen moving about on the stage. He seems to be forgetting the name of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that, he falls asleep while speaking. Also, called VP his 'First Lady'.&nbsp;

In the viral clip, he said, "Listen to me [forgets Putin's name]. I have a very important message for you. The message is…" [still don't remember Putin's name].&nbsp;

He starts again and then said that "we are going to talk about the crisis in Africa," only to be corrected by Harris again as earlier he said "the crisis in Spain." In the clip, Harris can be seen bringing Biden back to address Russia.&nbsp;

In the end, the fake president wraps up the news conference by thanking everyone. He says, "Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless…"

He again dozes off in the arms of Harris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-is-how-a-nasa-sample-of-lunar-dust-came-to-be-sold-at-a-public-auction-for-500000-470899">This is how a NASA sample of lunar dust came to be sold at a public auction for $500,000</a>

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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For the first time i see the Saudi TV mocking the US administration. <a href="https://t.co/8vPtU0txJ8">pic.twitter.com/8vPtU0txJ8</a>
— Asaad Sam Hanna (@AsaadHannaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsaadHannaa/status/1513681354348716035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This isn't mocking, this is truth
— Σαπφώ_K 🍫 (@Q_sappho) <a href="https://twitter.com/Q_sappho/status/1513683088928387075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While he's begging them for oil, they mock him. 
 
So he resorts to burning our emergency oil reserves in a desperate attempt to keep control of Congress 
 
Which will just make the Saudis more powerful.
— Zugly747 (@zugly747) <a href="https://twitter.com/zugly747/status/1513707968189153284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The clip is an apparent reference to the various verbal gaffes done by US President Biden in the recent past.&nbsp;

Not so long ago, he mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake, however, was corrected by the White House.&nbsp;

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden. The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US.

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden. The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US. In the show, Biden is portrayed as a forgetful old man who fell asleep at the podium. He was woken up by a woman, who is apparently playing the role of US Vice President Kamala Harris. ALSO READ | In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine In the one-minute clip, reel-life Biden can be seen moving about on the stage. He seems to be forgetting the name of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that, he falls asleep while speaking. Also, called VP his 'First Lady'. In the viral clip, he said, "Listen to me [forgets Putin's name]. I have a very important message for you. The message is…" [still don't remember Putin's name]. He starts again and then said that "we are going to talk about the crisis in Africa," only to be corrected by Harris again as earlier he said "the crisis in Spain." In the clip, Harris can be seen bringing Biden back to address Russia. In the end, the fake president wraps up the news conference by thanking everyone. He says, "Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless…" He again dozes off in the arms of Harris. ALSO READ | This is how a NASA sample of lunar dust came to be sold at a public auction for $500,000 Watch the video here: For the first time i see the Saudi TV mocking the US administration. pic.twitter.com/8vPtU0txJ8 — Asaad Sam Hanna (@AsaadHannaa) April 12, 2022 × This isn't mocking, this is truth — Σαπφώ_K 🍫 (@Q_sappho) April 12, 2022 × While he's begging them for oil, they mock him. So he resorts to burning our emergency oil reserves in a desperate attempt to keep control of Congress Which will just make the Saudis more powerful. — Zugly747 (@zugly747) April 12, 2022 × The clip is an apparent reference to the various verbal gaffes done by US President Biden in the recent past. Not so long ago, he mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake, however, was corrected by the White House.

Watch: Saudi TV show pokes fun at Joe Biden, shows him as sleepy and forgetful old man

US president Joe Biden has escalated rhetoric against Russia's President Putin and termed Russian acts as 'genocide' several times. However, Emmanuel Macron has refused to term Russian acts as 'genocide'.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: US President Joe Biden escalates rhetoric against Putin

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold a virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden on Monday (April 11, 2022) to further deepen ties between the both nations.

Modi to hold virtual meeting with Biden ahead of 2+2 dialogue

To reduce gun deaths and violent crimes in the US, the Biden administration has now introduced an executive order to bring in new restrictions on the sales of so-called Ghost Guns

Biden administration vows to tackle growing threat of 'Ghost Guns'

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