<p lang="en-US">United States President Joe Biden, along with his administration, has been working very hard to stop the attacks on Indian and Indian-American students, said the White House.<br />
<br />
Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, John Kirby made the announcement in the wake of numerous attacks on Indian-origin students in various parts of the country.<br />
<br />
"There is no excuse for violence, certainly based on race or gender or religion or any other factor. That's just unacceptable here in the United States," said Kirby, while speaking to the reporters when asked about the multiple attacks on Indian-origin students.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-quad-bill-what-does-it-mean-for-india-690743">US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India?</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"The president and this administration have been working very, very hard to make sure we're doing everything we can to work with state and local authorities to try to thwart and disrupt those kinds of attacks and make it clear to anybody who might consider them that they'll be held properly accountable," said Kirby.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Indian-origin students under attack in the US?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Five Indian-origin students have till now been reported dead in the United States this year.<br />
<br />
Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University was found dead in a nature preserve.<br />
<br />
Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play.<br />
<br />
Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother.<br />
<br />
A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US braces for winter storms: Flights canceled, heavy snow blankets north-east region</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-braces-for-winter-storms-flights-canceled-heavy-snow-blankets-north-east-region-690748/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January.<br />
<br />
Speaking about the issue, Indian American community leader Ajay Jain Bhutoria said that he was troubled by the news of the deaths of these students and emphasised the need for enhanced safety measures for those people who are pursuing education in the US.<br />
<br />
"These incidents understandably worry parents and families in India, and their concerns are shared. It's crucial to address safety issues to ensure the well-being of Indian students studying in the USA," he said, further stating that the Indian American community has united in the call for improved support systems and safety measures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, along with his administration, has been working very hard to stop the attacks on Indian and Indian-American students, said the White House.

United States President Joe Biden, along with his administration, has been working very hard to stop the attacks on Indian and Indian-American students, said the White House. Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, John Kirby made the announcement in the wake of numerous attacks on Indian-origin students in various parts of the country. "There is no excuse for violence, certainly based on race or gender or religion or any other factor. That's just unacceptable here in the United States," said Kirby, while speaking to the reporters when asked about the multiple attacks on Indian-origin students. Also Read: US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India? "The president and this administration have been working very, very hard to make sure we're doing everything we can to work with state and local authorities to try to thwart and disrupt those kinds of attacks and make it clear to anybody who might consider them that they'll be held properly accountable," said Kirby. Indian-origin students under attack in the US? Five Indian-origin students have till now been reported dead in the United States this year. Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University was found dead in a nature preserve. Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play. Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother. A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16. Watch: US braces for winter storms: Flights canceled, heavy snow blankets north-east region Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January. Speaking about the issue, Indian American community leader Ajay Jain Bhutoria said that he was troubled by the news of the deaths of these students and emphasised the need for enhanced safety measures for those people who are pursuing education in the US. "These incidents understandably worry parents and families in India, and their concerns are shared. It's crucial to address safety issues to ensure the well-being of Indian students studying in the USA," he said, further stating that the Indian American community has united in the call for improved support systems and safety measures. (With inputs from agencies)

President Biden working 'very hard' to thwart attacks on Indian students: White House

<p lang="en-US">In a major setback for the impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden being carried out by the House Republicans, Justice Department special counsel has indicted a former FBI informant for allegedly lying about the overseas business dealings of the US president and his son Hunter Biden.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Special Counsel David Weiss has charged 43-year-old Alexander Smirnov of giving&nbsp;false statements and making a fictitious record in what is called the “FBI 1023 report”, which is based on the false information provided to the investigators by him.</p>

<p lang="en-US">On Wednesday (Feb 14), Smirnov was arrested at a Nevada airport, stated the Justice Department.</p>

<p lang="en-US">As per a grand jury indictment, which was unsealed in the Central District of California, Smirnov allegedly spoke with his FBI handler in 2017 regarding Burisma Holdings Limited, which is a Ukrainian holding company where Hunter Biden was appointed on the board.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Three years later in June 2020, Smirnov allegedly informed the FBI regarding the two meetings held in 2015 or 2016 in which he claimed that he was informed about the company paying Hunter Biden to serve on Burisma's board so as to "protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems."</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-20-per-cent-of-americans-believe-in-taylor-swift-joe-biden-election-conspiracy-theory-poll-finds-690644">Nearly 20 per cent of Americans believe in Taylor Swift-Joe Biden election conspiracy theory, poll finds</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">Smirnov later also informed the investigators that "they had specifically paid $5 million each to Public Official 1, when he was in office, and Businessperson 1 so that [Businessperson 1] will take care of all those issues through his dad," as per the charging documents.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The indictment fails to specifically identify President Biden as well as his son, however, the descriptions in court papers appear identical to their identities.</p>

<p lang="en-US">"The Defendant made these statements to the Handler in June 2020, when Public Official 1 was a candidate for President of the United States and the presumptive nominee of one of the two major political parties," alleged the indictment.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Statements memorialised in FBI record form 'false'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">According to the prosecutors, the two statements memorialised in an FBI record form, "were false, as the Defendant knew."</p>

<p lang="en-US">"No such statements were made to the Defendant because, in truth and fact, Defendant met with officials from Burisma for the first time in 2017, after Public Official 1 left office in January 2017, and after the then-Ukrainian Prosecutor General had been fired in February 2016," said the special counsel.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Till September 2023, Smirnov gave false statements to federal investigators and&nbsp;the indictment said that he, "repeated some of his false claims, changed his story&nbsp;as to other of his claims, and promoted a new false narrative after he said he met with Russian officials."</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin says he prefers Joe Biden over Donald Trump in the White House</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-says-he-prefers-joe-biden-over-donald-trump-in-the-white-house-690483/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">He has been accused by the special counsel of "expressing a bias" against Biden in May 2020 text messages with his FBI handler, and saying that the then-presidential candidate was "going to jail." However, Smirnov has pleaded not guilty to all charges.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Responding to the charges made on Thursday, Hunter Biden's attorney Abbe Lowell said, "For months we have warned that Republicans have built their conspiracies about Hunter and his family on lies told by people with political agendas, not facts. We were right and the air is out of their balloon."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major setback for the impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden being carried out by the House Republicans, Justice Department special counsel has indicted a former FBI informant for allegedly lying about the overseas business dealings of the US president and his son Hunter Biden.

In a major setback for the impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden being carried out by the House Republicans, Justice Department special counsel has indicted a former FBI informant for allegedly lying about the overseas business dealings of the US president and his son Hunter Biden. Special Counsel David Weiss has charged 43-year-old Alexander Smirnov of giving false statements and making a fictitious record in what is called the “FBI 1023 report”, which is based on the false information provided to the investigators by him. On Wednesday (Feb 14), Smirnov was arrested at a Nevada airport, stated the Justice Department. As per a grand jury indictment, which was unsealed in the Central District of California, Smirnov allegedly spoke with his FBI handler in 2017 regarding Burisma Holdings Limited, which is a Ukrainian holding company where Hunter Biden was appointed on the board. Three years later in June 2020, Smirnov allegedly informed the FBI regarding the two meetings held in 2015 or 2016 in which he claimed that he was informed about the company paying Hunter Biden to serve on Burisma's board so as to "protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems." Also Read: Nearly 20 per cent of Americans believe in Taylor Swift-Joe Biden election conspiracy theory, poll finds Smirnov later also informed the investigators that "they had specifically paid $5 million each to Public Official 1, when he was in office, and Businessperson 1 so that [Businessperson 1] will take care of all those issues through his dad," as per the charging documents. The indictment fails to specifically identify President Biden as well as his son, however, the descriptions in court papers appear identical to their identities. "The Defendant made these statements to the Handler in June 2020, when Public Official 1 was a candidate for President of the United States and the presumptive nominee of one of the two major political parties," alleged the indictment. Statements memorialised in FBI record form 'false' According to the prosecutors, the two statements memorialised in an FBI record form, "were false, as the Defendant knew." "No such statements were made to the Defendant because, in truth and fact, Defendant met with officials from Burisma for the first time in 2017, after Public Official 1 left office in January 2017, and after the then-Ukrainian Prosecutor General had been fired in February 2016," said the special counsel. Till September 2023, Smirnov gave false statements to federal investigators and the indictment said that he, "repeated some of his false claims, changed his story as to other of his claims, and promoted a new false narrative after he said he met with Russian officials." Watch: Russian President Putin says he prefers Joe Biden over Donald Trump in the White House He has been accused by the special counsel of "expressing a bias" against Biden in May 2020 text messages with his FBI handler, and saying that the then-presidential candidate was "going to jail." However, Smirnov has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Responding to the charges made on Thursday, Hunter Biden's attorney Abbe Lowell said, "For months we have warned that Republicans have built their conspiracies about Hunter and his family on lies told by people with political agendas, not facts. We were right and the air is out of their balloon." (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-FBI informant indicted for lying about business dealings of President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden

Kamala Harris says she is 'ready to serve'. The U.S. Vice President is ready to run for President. But is Harris the Democrats' best bet against former President Donald Trump?

Gravitas | Kamala Harris to run against Biden for Democratic nomination?

US Vice President Kamala Harris says that she's ready to be president if needed the remarks come amid concerns over President Biden's age and mental acuity in an interview with the media.

No question about it: Kamala Harris says ready to serve as President

In the United States with special Cousel report putting President Biden's age in memory back into the spotlight. The focus is yet again shifting to his well documented history of confusing and embarrassing gaps. Now here are some of the most recent...Watch to know more!

US President Biden 'poor memory' row: Joe Biden forgets Hamas' name, says Opposition instead

Snap elections are underway in Azerbaijan. Months after a conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh brought the Armenian separatist region under Azerbaijan's control. Voters are still queuing up to cast their ballots. But it is widely expected that President Ilham Aliyev would return to power for another 7 years.

Azerbaijan's president speculated to return to power for 7 more years

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

US Elections 2024: Joe Biden has lower approval than all recent sitting Presidents: Gallup poll

Voters in El Salvador are set to cast their ballots and victory for the incumbent President appears to be in the bag...El Salvador's youngest President is the front runner in Sunday's election. Watch to know more!

El Salvador: Nayib Bukele set to win second term

<p>Kenyan President William Ruto on Saturday blamed incompetent and corrupt government officials for a deadly gas blast in Nairobi that killed three people and injured 280.</p>

<p>A truck laden with gas canisters exploded just before midnight Thursday in Embakasi, a densely populated Nairobi district, unleashing a trail of destruction and sending people running for their lives.</p>

<p>The Petroleum Institute of East Africa said on Friday that the explosion occurred at an "illegal LPG refilling and storage site" whose owner and some customers had been convicted and sentenced in May 2023.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;Kenya's National Environment Authority (NEMA) on Saturday said Maxxis Nairobi Energy had obtained permission on February 2 last year to operate the site.</p>

<p>"Preliminary investigations have revealed that four NEMA officers unprocedurally processed the licence and are therefore culpable," NEMA Board Chairman Emilio Mugo said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The board therefore, directs that the implicated officers step aside immediately pending further investigation by the relevant government agencies," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Incompetence and corruption'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>President Ruto, without mentioning NEMA, said: "Government officials issued licences for gas installations in residential areas when it was very clear that it was the wrong thing to do, but because of incompetence and corruption they issued licences," he said.</p>

<p>Ruto said they should be sacked and "prosecuted for the crimes they have committed".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A joint statement by the interior and energy ministers said that according to preliminary findings, "the refilling of LPG cylinders was done using direct manifold connections to LPG tanker increasing the risk of leakage and explosion".</p>

<p>"Twice in March 2020 and January 2021, the plant that was illegally constructed at the said location was demolished... the operators charged in court," it added.</p>

<p>"As we call for caution and adherence to the rule of law, those culpable in this unacceptable occurrence will be held accountable,"&nbsp;Kenya's Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter.</p>

<p>Government spokesman Isaac Maigua Mwaura said three Kenyans died and 280 others were taken to hospital after the explosion ignited a "huge ball of fire that spread widely".</p>

<p>The inferno damaged vehicles and many businesses, with a garment and textile factory burned to the ground.</p>

<p>Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector of Police, said a guard at the gas site had been arrested and investigations were ongoing.</p>

<p>Residents said they had long feared such a disaster, accusing the government of being "irresponsible" by allowing inflammable products to be stored near their homes.</p>

<p>"Why do we have gas plants in the middle of estates?&nbsp;This&nbsp;is a residential area and that is a gas plant right there. And it is not one, there are several," Magdalene Kerubo,&nbsp;34, told AFP.</p>

<p>Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) also said it had denied permission three times last year for the construction of an LPG storage and filling plant at the site.</p>

<p>"The main reason for the rejection was failure of the designs to meet the safety distances stipulated," it said, noting "the high population density around the proposed site".</p>

<p>Embakasi is a residential and industrial area with a population of about one million according to the 2019 census and lies 10 kilometres (six miles) from&nbsp;Kenya's main international airport.</p>


Kenyan President William Ruto on Saturday blamed incompetent and corrupt government officials for a deadly gas blast in Nairobi that killed three people and injured 280.

Kenyan President William Ruto on Saturday blamed incompetent and corrupt government officials for a deadly gas blast in Nairobi that killed three people and injured 280. A truck laden with gas canisters exploded just before midnight Thursday in Embakasi, a densely populated Nairobi district, unleashing a trail of destruction and sending people running for their lives. The Petroleum Institute of East Africa said on Friday that the explosion occurred at an "illegal LPG refilling and storage site" whose owner and some customers had been convicted and sentenced in May 2023. But Kenya's National Environment Authority (NEMA) on Saturday said Maxxis Nairobi Energy had obtained permission on February 2 last year to operate the site. "Preliminary investigations have revealed that four NEMA officers unprocedurally processed the licence and are therefore culpable," NEMA Board Chairman Emilio Mugo said in a statement. "The board therefore, directs that the implicated officers step aside immediately pending further investigation by the relevant government agencies," he said. 'Incompetence and corruption' President Ruto, without mentioning NEMA, said: "Government officials issued licences for gas installations in residential areas when it was very clear that it was the wrong thing to do, but because of incompetence and corruption they issued licences," he said. Ruto said they should be sacked and "prosecuted for the crimes they have committed". A joint statement by the interior and energy ministers said that according to preliminary findings, "the refilling of LPG cylinders was done using direct manifold connections to LPG tanker increasing the risk of leakage and explosion". "Twice in March 2020 and January 2021, the plant that was illegally constructed at the said location was demolished... the operators charged in court," it added. "As we call for caution and adherence to the rule of law, those culpable in this unacceptable occurrence will be held accountable," Kenya's Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter. Government spokesman Isaac Maigua Mwaura said three Kenyans died and 280 others were taken to hospital after the explosion ignited a "huge ball of fire that spread widely". The inferno damaged vehicles and many businesses, with a garment and textile factory burned to the ground. Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector of Police, said a guard at the gas site had been arrested and investigations were ongoing. Residents said they had long feared such a disaster, accusing the government of being "irresponsible" by allowing inflammable products to be stored near their homes. "Why do we have gas plants in the middle of estates? This is a residential area and that is a gas plant right there. And it is not one, there are several," Magdalene Kerubo, 34, told AFP. Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) also said it had denied permission three times last year for the construction of an LPG storage and filling plant at the site. "The main reason for the rejection was failure of the designs to meet the safety distances stipulated," it said, noting "the high population density around the proposed site". Embakasi is a residential and industrial area with a population of about one million according to the 2019 census and lies 10 kilometres (six miles) from Kenya's main international airport.

Kenyan president criticises 'incompetence', 'corruption' after deadly blast

Maldives prosecutor general Hussain Shameem, who was appointed by former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government, was brutally attacked by unidentified miscreants in the capital city of Male. He was rushed to the Maldives's ADK Hospital and is currently receiving treatment.

Maldives Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem attacked in Male

A drone strike on the Al-Tanf military base killed three US troops and injured 34 others, Washington said on Sunday (Jan 28). This was the first deadly strike against US forces since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct 7 last year. US President Joe Biden blamed Iran-backed militants for the strike and vowed that Washington would respond. Watch to know more!

West Asia Crisis: Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone strike in Jordan

US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump attacked each other a day after the New Hampshire Primaries indicating a likely election rematch between Trump and Biden. Watch in for more details!

US Presidential race heats up post-New Hampshire

146 Opposition MPs were suspended from Parliament for 'unruly behaviour' and 'misconduct'. The government said they had broken rules, opposition leaders have called it a 'murder of democracy'. Vikram Chandra speaks to PDT Achary, a former Lok Sabha Secretary General to understand what the incidents in Parliament this week mean for its future.

Record suspensions in Indian Parliament: Opposition benches empty, key bills passed | India Story

Parliament row | Highest suspensions in a session: 146 MPs suspended from both houses | India Story

<p>Liberia's new president Joseph Boakai on Monday (Jan 22) froze on the podium as he was delivering his inauguration speech. In the visuals from the outdoor inauguration ceremony,&nbsp;Boakai could be seen facing a challenge to continue his speech and paused in between.&nbsp;The 79-year-old president paused twice due to the sweltering heat. Ultimately the ceremony had to be cut short.</p>

<p>Later, in a statement, his office said that the president experienced heat exhaustion during his inauguration speech in the capital, Monrovia. His aides assisted him in leaving the podium.</p>

<p>The president's office released a statement on Monday (Jan 22) reassuring that Boakai had suffered from heat exhaustion and had since been declared "perfectly fine" by doctors.</p>

<p>He has swiftly "resumed" his regular work, according to the statement.</p>

<p>"We see hard times, we see dysfunctioning... we see corruption in high and low places. And (it's) in these and similar conditions that we have come to the rescue," Boakai said following the heat exhaustion.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇱🇷‼️🚨 80-year-old Liberian President Joseph Boakai fainted and felt ill right during his inauguration:<br />
<br />
“The inauguration ceremony of President Joseph Boakai was temporarily stopped because the head of Liberia suffered a heatstroke during his speech.<br />
<br />
After the incident, the… <a href="https://t.co/FVdpfPJFq3">pic.twitter.com/FVdpfPJFq3</a></p>
— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MyLordBebo/status/1749526106561019987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Boakai, a seasoned politician who narrowly defeated former football star George Weah in a runoff election in November, faced criticism&nbsp;about his age and energy during the election campaign.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-uk-conduct-fresh-series-of-air-strikes-against-houthi-targets-in-yemen-682642">US and UK conduct fresh series of air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen</a></p>

<p>Boakai previously served as vice president from 2006 to 2018 and held the position of minister of agriculture.</p>

<h2><strong>Boakai's age concerns&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to the election, Boakai dismissed concerns about his health, asserting that "age should be a blessing to this country".</p>

<p>He portrayed himself as "a man who is old, wise, sound",&nbsp;and "committed to the cause of the country".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-shot-dead-in-chicago-suburbs-authorities-say-suspect-armed-and-dangerous-682626">Eight shot dead in Chicago suburbs, authorities say suspect 'armed and dangerous'</a></p>

<p>He has also served as vice-president in Nobel Peace Prize-winner Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's government until 2018. Boakai contested the presidency under the United Party (UP).</p>

<p>Despite being mocked by critics as "Sleepy Joe," the 79-year-old Joseph Boakai has been inaugurated as Liberia's oldest-ever president.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-vessel-heads-towards-maldives-concerns-india-682646">Chinese vessel heads towards Maldives, concerns India</a></strong></p>

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<p>He secured a victory with the help of a former rebel commander. Liberia continues to struggle with high levels of poverty and unemployment.&nbsp;Corruption also remains a challenge in Liberia, impacting various sectors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Liberia's new president Joseph Boakai on Monday (Jan 22) froze on the podium as he was delivering his inauguration speech. In the visuals from the outdoor inauguration ceremony, Boakai could be seen facing a challenge to continue his speech and paused in between.

Liberia's new president Joseph Boakai on Monday (Jan 22) froze on the podium as he was delivering his inauguration speech. In the visuals from the outdoor inauguration ceremony, Boakai could be seen facing a challenge to continue his speech and paused in between. The 79-year-old president paused twice due to the sweltering heat. Ultimately the ceremony had to be cut short. Later, in a statement, his office said that the president experienced heat exhaustion during his inauguration speech in the capital, Monrovia. His aides assisted him in leaving the podium. The president's office released a statement on Monday (Jan 22) reassuring that Boakai had suffered from heat exhaustion and had since been declared "perfectly fine" by doctors. He has swiftly "resumed" his regular work, according to the statement. "We see hard times, we see dysfunctioning... we see corruption in high and low places. And (it's) in these and similar conditions that we have come to the rescue," Boakai said following the heat exhaustion. 🇱🇷‼️🚨 80-year-old Liberian President Joseph Boakai fainted and felt ill right during his inauguration: “The inauguration ceremony of President Joseph Boakai was temporarily stopped because the head of Liberia suffered a heatstroke during his speech. After the incident, the… pic.twitter.com/FVdpfPJFq3 — Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) January 22, 2024 × Boakai, a seasoned politician who narrowly defeated former football star George Weah in a runoff election in November, faced criticism about his age and energy during the election campaign. Also Read | US and UK conduct fresh series of air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen Boakai previously served as vice president from 2006 to 2018 and held the position of minister of agriculture. Boakai's age concerns Prior to the election, Boakai dismissed concerns about his health, asserting that "age should be a blessing to this country". He portrayed himself as "a man who is old, wise, sound", and "committed to the cause of the country". Also Read | Eight shot dead in Chicago suburbs, authorities say suspect 'armed and dangerous' He has also served as vice-president in Nobel Peace Prize-winner Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's government until 2018. Boakai contested the presidency under the United Party (UP). Despite being mocked by critics as "Sleepy Joe," the 79-year-old Joseph Boakai has been inaugurated as Liberia's oldest-ever president. Watch | Chinese vessel heads towards Maldives, concerns India × He secured a victory with the help of a former rebel commander. Liberia continues to struggle with high levels of poverty and unemployment. Corruption also remains a challenge in Liberia, impacting various sectors. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Liberia's President Joseph Boakai freezes at inauguration speech

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr drew flak on social media for his use of a presidential helicopter to attend a concert by British rock band Coldplay in Manila. Watch to know more!

Philippine President Marcos slammed for using official chopper for Coldplay concert

<p>Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quit the 2024 US Republican presidential campaign,&nbsp;hours after suffering a heavy defeat in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy finished fourth in the race, mustering only eight per cent of votes. He endorsed frontrunner Donald Trump for another term at the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old had made waves after joining the race as a relatively unknown face in February 2023. He quickly gained prominence among first-time and young voters by aligning his campaign to that of former president Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is true that we did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight. As of this moment, we are going to suspend this presidential campaign," Ramaswamy told his supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaswamy called Trump to congratulate him on his victory and endorsed his candidature as well.</p>

<p>"There needs to be an America First candidate in this race.&nbsp;Going forward, he will have my full endorsement for the presidency," Ramaswamy said, adding that he will attend the New Hampshire rally alongside Trump.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaswamy had high hopes from Iowa as he held the most public events out of all his GOP rivals. He hit all 99 counties in the state twice and created an elaborate social media campaign to enter the big leagues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-projected-to-win-republican-presidential-caucuses-in-iowa-680330"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump wins Republican presidential caucuses in Iowa, DeSantis secures second spot</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>How Ramaswamy's campaign came to a halt</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaswamy, a US citizen born and raised in&nbsp;Cincinnati, Ohio, had put his hat in the ring to secure a nomination from the Republican party. He was up against former president Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence and other heavyweights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Known for his outspoken views against woke culture, Ramaswamy became a familiar face on news shows, engaging in debates across a spectrum of political perspectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While he gained attention as an "interesting candidate" in the US media, characterised as "intelligent, highly unconventional, and less like any of the others," Ramaswamy also faced sharp criticism from political rivals and commentators.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vivek-ramaswamy-i-want-to-revive-our-nations-patriotism-and-pride-613452"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Vivek Ramaswamy: I want to revive our nation's patriotism and pride</strong></a></p>

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<p>A section of Republicans also accused him of being an outsider who had been propped up by the opponents to derail the campaigns of other established players. During the first presidential debate, Chris Christie mockingly referred to him as an AI app and accused him of&nbsp;borrowing Obama's line about his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikki Haley, who came third in Iowa causes behind Trump and Ron DeSantis, criticised Ramaswamy for his perceived lack of foreign policy experience while labelling&nbsp;him "scum" for discussing her daughter's TikTok usage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quit the 2024 US Republican presidential campaign, hours after suffering a heavy defeat in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy finished fourth in the race, mustering only eight per cent of votes.

Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quit the 2024 US Republican presidential campaign, hours after suffering a heavy defeat in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy finished fourth in the race, mustering only eight per cent of votes. He endorsed frontrunner Donald Trump for another term at the White House. The 38-year-old had made waves after joining the race as a relatively unknown face in February 2023. He quickly gained prominence among first-time and young voters by aligning his campaign to that of former president Donald Trump. "It is true that we did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight. As of this moment, we are going to suspend this presidential campaign," Ramaswamy told his supporters. Ramaswamy called Trump to congratulate him on his victory and endorsed his candidature as well. "There needs to be an America First candidate in this race. Going forward, he will have my full endorsement for the presidency," Ramaswamy said, adding that he will attend the New Hampshire rally alongside Trump. Ramaswamy had high hopes from Iowa as he held the most public events out of all his GOP rivals. He hit all 99 counties in the state twice and created an elaborate social media campaign to enter the big leagues. Also read | Donald Trump wins Republican presidential caucuses in Iowa, DeSantis secures second spot How Ramaswamy's campaign came to a halt Ramaswamy, a US citizen born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, had put his hat in the ring to secure a nomination from the Republican party. He was up against former president Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence and other heavyweights. Known for his outspoken views against woke culture, Ramaswamy became a familiar face on news shows, engaging in debates across a spectrum of political perspectives. While he gained attention as an "interesting candidate" in the US media, characterised as "intelligent, highly unconventional, and less like any of the others," Ramaswamy also faced sharp criticism from political rivals and commentators. Watch | Vivek Ramaswamy: I want to revive our nation's patriotism and pride A section of Republicans also accused him of being an outsider who had been propped up by the opponents to derail the campaigns of other established players. During the first presidential debate, Chris Christie mockingly referred to him as an AI app and accused him of borrowing Obama's line about his name. Nikki Haley, who came third in Iowa causes behind Trump and Ron DeSantis, criticised Ramaswamy for his perceived lack of foreign policy experience while labelling him "scum" for discussing her daughter's TikTok usage. (With inputs from agencies)

Vivek Ramaswamy drops out of 2024 race after Iowa caucuses, endorses Trump for US president

The wave of violence currently sweeping through Ecuador, attributed to the activities of powerful gangs, has thrown the country into a state of fear. This unprecedented surge in violence is tied to several incidents, including prison riots, kidnappings of police officers, and a brazen storming of a TV station. In an attempt to regain control and restore peace, the Ecuadorian President, Daniel Noboa, has ordered the military to confront these powerful criminal organizations, now branded as "terrorist" groups.

Ecuador violence: Ecuador enters third day of the cartel terror campaign

The country has fallen to cocaine gangsters. On Tuesday, a masked gunman stormed a tv studio during a live broadcast, with long-range guns and grenades. Eventually, the police came to their rescue and arrested the attackers but the whole episode reveals the challenges the country's president faces.

Gravitas | Cocaine gangsters take over in Ecuador | Hostage crisis at Ecuadorian TV station

Dozens of armed men stormed a TV broadcast in Ecuador just a day after President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day National Emergency. The Ecuadorian President has ordered that all the criminal gangs involved in the attack be neutralized after the country exploded into what he called an internal armed conflict.

Armed men wearing balaclavas disrupt live TV broadcast in Ecuador

<p>United States President Joe Biden's issue of age was once again re-ignited on social media after video footage of First Lady Jill Biden escorting him off stage, after he delivered the January 6 anniversary remarks, went viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>RNC Research's X account shared a video which included the footage in which Biden just ended his speech near Valley Forge in Pennsylvania on Friday (Jan 5) after which his wife held his hand and led him away from the podium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media users were left amused by the fact that Joe Biden's wife was allowed by the White House staff to rush to the stage and lead President Biden away from the podium before he by any chance hesitated awkwardly or walked towards the stage's wrong end in confusion, reported Fox News.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jill, Ed.D., escorts Biden off the stage following his remarks <a href="https://t.co/jCaV2Rtk49">pic.twitter.com/jCaV2Rtk49</a></p>
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) <a href="https://twitter.com/RNCResearch/status/1743376556553031769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the video, Jill Biden is seen climbing the stage as soon as the president has ended his speech, grabbing his hand and taking him to the back of the stage where the two disappeared behind the American flags that were kept on display.</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens react to the video, call it 'pathetic'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sharing the video, The Daily Mail US on X wrote, “Jill Biden rushed to embrace zoned-out Biden after he finished the speech, then went into trance-like state on-stage." Quickly responding to the trolling of Biden, some netizens wrote, “Remember the many times Melania wouldn’t hold Trump’s hand?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jill Biden rushed to embrace zoned-out Biden after he finished speech, then went into trance-like state on-stage <a href="https://t.co/fYJ1zrdQwL">https://t.co/fYJ1zrdQwL</a> <a href="https://t.co/aBELRccmER">pic.twitter.com/aBELRccmER</a></p>
— Daily Mail US (@DailyMail) <a href="https://twitter.com/DailyMail/status/1743667700071621022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, other netizens taking a subtle dig at Donald Trump, wrote, “Yeah wives actually want to hold the hands of their husbands when their husbands are faithful and didn't raw dog a pornstar when they were home with their infant son. Crazy."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-joe-bidens-age-in-focus-yet-again-as-us-prez-celebrates-81st-birthday-ahead-of-2024-elections-660845">Explained | Joe Biden’s age in focus again as US president celebrates 81st birthday ahead of 2024 elections</a></p>

<p>“Couples that actually love each other still hold hands. It's a thing Repukes don't comprehend because you are not capable of love," said another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, many others joined the trolling of Biden ahead of the US Presidential elections which are set to be held this year and in which President Biden is seeking another term at the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tried to cover it by running on stage to hug him beforehand. I bet we'll see more of these "displays of love" to help him exit," netizens wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Xi Jinping, Joe Biden vow to promote bilateral ties | WION</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/xi-jinping-joe-biden-vow-to-promote-bilateral-ties-wion-675567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“It's pathetic to see the Commander in Chief being led off the stage. But Jill is there specifically to make sure Biden finds his way off of the stage and doesn't get distracted trying to shake hands with invisible people," another user said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden's issue of age was once again re-ignited on social media after video footage of First Lady Jill Biden escorting him off stage, after he delivered the January 6 anniversary remarks, went viral.

United States President Joe Biden's issue of age was once again re-ignited on social media after video footage of First Lady Jill Biden escorting him off stage, after he delivered the January 6 anniversary remarks, went viral. RNC Research's X account shared a video which included the footage in which Biden just ended his speech near Valley Forge in Pennsylvania on Friday (Jan 5) after which his wife held his hand and led him away from the podium. Social media users were left amused by the fact that Joe Biden's wife was allowed by the White House staff to rush to the stage and lead President Biden away from the podium before he by any chance hesitated awkwardly or walked towards the stage's wrong end in confusion, reported Fox News. Jill, Ed.D., escorts Biden off the stage following his remarks pic.twitter.com/jCaV2Rtk49 — RNC Research (@RNCResearch) January 5, 2024 × In the video, Jill Biden is seen climbing the stage as soon as the president has ended his speech, grabbing his hand and taking him to the back of the stage where the two disappeared behind the American flags that were kept on display. Netizens react to the video, call it 'pathetic' Sharing the video, The Daily Mail US on X wrote, “Jill Biden rushed to embrace zoned-out Biden after he finished the speech, then went into trance-like state on-stage." Quickly responding to the trolling of Biden, some netizens wrote, “Remember the many times Melania wouldn’t hold Trump’s hand?" Jill Biden rushed to embrace zoned-out Biden after he finished speech, then went into trance-like state on-stage https://t.co/fYJ1zrdQwL pic.twitter.com/aBELRccmER — Daily Mail US (@DailyMail) January 6, 2024 × Meanwhile, other netizens taking a subtle dig at Donald Trump, wrote, “Yeah wives actually want to hold the hands of their husbands when their husbands are faithful and didn't raw dog a pornstar when they were home with their infant son. Crazy." Also read: Explained | Joe Biden’s age in focus again as US president celebrates 81st birthday ahead of 2024 elections “Couples that actually love each other still hold hands. It's a thing Repukes don't comprehend because you are not capable of love," said another. However, many others joined the trolling of Biden ahead of the US Presidential elections which are set to be held this year and in which President Biden is seeking another term at the White House. "Tried to cover it by running on stage to hug him beforehand. I bet we'll see more of these "displays of love" to help him exit," netizens wrote. Watch: Xi Jinping, Joe Biden vow to promote bilateral ties | WION “It's pathetic to see the Commander in Chief being led off the stage. But Jill is there specifically to make sure Biden finds his way off of the stage and doesn't get distracted trying to shake hands with invisible people," another user said. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Biden ‘escorted’ off stage by First Lady, age debate sparks on social media ahead of polls

<p>Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu departed for China along with First Lady Sajidha Mohamed on Sunday night (Jan 7) which marked the beginning of a state visit. He had received an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping. The official visit comes at a time when the country is engaged in a diplomatic row with its closest neighbour and a major source of tourism - India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Muizzu, who came to power with his 'Out India' campaign, suspended the government's three deputy ministers - Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoon Maajid, after they posted derogatory comments on social media platform X in reaction to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealing the world to visit Lakshadweep islands, which is the archipelago for tourism.</p>

<p>The prime minister's visit was seen by some as an effort to attract tourism to the island but some also viewed it as a step to take away tourists from the globally popular Maldives, whose 1,192 islands in the Indian Ocean are filled with luxury resorts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-govt-suspends-ministers-who-made-racist-remarks-against-indians-to-target-pm-modis-lakshadweep-visit-677475">Maldives govt suspends three ministers over derogatory remarks on PM Modi</a></p>

<p>"The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives," stated the Maldives Foreign Ministry, while responding to the controversial social media posts.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian celebrities call for local tourism</strong></h2>

<p>Many prominent Indian personalities, including cricketer Hardik Pandya and actor Akshay Kumar, expressed dismay at the comments posted by the Maldivian officials. In an online campaign aimed at promoting local tourism, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actor Salman Khan and others appealed to people to visit their own islands and not to travel abroad.</p>

<p>#ExploreIndianIslands became the second largest trending hashtag on social media platform X in India and some users also started sharing screenshots of cancelled bookings of Maldivian holidays.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi | India-Maldives derogatory comment row</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-sacks-3-ministers-for-insulting-comments-on-pm-modi-india-maldives-derogatory-comment-row-677615/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>India, which is a crucial ally of Maldives, has been contributing significantly to the country's economy through tourism as the Indians form the biggest group of tourists who visit the island nation. However, the relations between the two countries have strained since Muizzu came to power in November. The president had been seen as pro-Chinese, and in his election campaign had vowed to remove a small contingent of Indian military personnel which is stationed in the Maldives.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu departed for China along with First Lady Sajidha Mohamed on Sunday night (Jan 7) which marked the beginning of a state visit. He had received an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu departed for China along with First Lady Sajidha Mohamed on Sunday night (Jan 7) which marked the beginning of a state visit. He had received an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping. The official visit comes at a time when the country is engaged in a diplomatic row with its closest neighbour and a major source of tourism - India. President Muizzu, who came to power with his 'Out India' campaign, suspended the government's three deputy ministers - Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoon Maajid, after they posted derogatory comments on social media platform X in reaction to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealing the world to visit Lakshadweep islands, which is the archipelago for tourism. The prime minister's visit was seen by some as an effort to attract tourism to the island but some also viewed it as a step to take away tourists from the globally popular Maldives, whose 1,192 islands in the Indian Ocean are filled with luxury resorts. Also read: Maldives govt suspends three ministers over derogatory remarks on PM Modi "The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives," stated the Maldives Foreign Ministry, while responding to the controversial social media posts. Indian celebrities call for local tourism Many prominent Indian personalities, including cricketer Hardik Pandya and actor Akshay Kumar, expressed dismay at the comments posted by the Maldivian officials. In an online campaign aimed at promoting local tourism, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actor Salman Khan and others appealed to people to visit their own islands and not to travel abroad. #ExploreIndianIslands became the second largest trending hashtag on social media platform X in India and some users also started sharing screenshots of cancelled bookings of Maldivian holidays. Watch: Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi | India-Maldives derogatory comment row India, which is a crucial ally of Maldives, has been contributing significantly to the country's economy through tourism as the Indians form the biggest group of tourists who visit the island nation. However, the relations between the two countries have strained since Muizzu came to power in November. The president had been seen as pro-Chinese, and in his election campaign had vowed to remove a small contingent of Indian military personnel which is stationed in the Maldives. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives president departs for China amid diplomatic row with India

<p>The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity.</p>

<p>He said that the migrants, who were found on Wednesday, were abandoned by their kidnappers in a parking lot in a shopping center in the northern city of Reynosa in the state of Tamaulipas.</p>

<p>"Because there was a strong deployment (from Mexican authorities), they decided to free them, safe and sound," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in his morning press conference.</p>

<p>The case has highlighted the risks faced by the hundreds of thousands of migrants who cross through Mexico en route to the U.S. border each year, who are targets of extortion and kidnapping by powerful criminal groups.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-calls-for-more-production-of-missile-launchers-amid-us-south-korea-wargames-676745">Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames</a></p>

<p>Human rights activists have been warning for months about an escalating kidnapping crisis in Reynosa, where last year Reuters documented a pattern of kidnappings - and at times sexual assault - of migrants and asylum seekers.</p>

<p>The 32 migrants were abducted on Saturday from a commercial bus that had departed the northern city of Monterrey for Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas, according to Mexican officials. They were forced off the bus while traveling through Reynosa and whisked away in cars by armed men, officials added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/indonesia-bandung-train-collision-three-dead-on-java-island-several-others-injured-676750">Indonesia Bandung train collision: Three dead on Java Island, several others injured</a></p>

<p>In a separate case, authorities in the border state of Sonora said on Thursday they had rescued around 20 migrants, many also kidnapped off busses.</p>

<h2><strong>Investigation opened&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The group kidnapped in Reynosa was discovered after an anonymous caller tipped off authorities to their whereabouts, the state security agency's spokesman told Reuters.</p>

<p>The 32 migrants ranged in age from a 71-year-old man to a 1-year-old baby girl, with a total of 11 minors, he said, adding 26 were from Venezuela and six from Honduras.</p>

<p>The state attorney general's office said the migrants had given their testimonies and that the office has opened an investigation. No one has been arrested so far, Cuellar said.</p>

<p>Late on Thursday, Mexico's national migration institute said it would grant the migrants humanitarian visas.</p>

<p>A record number of migrants traveled across Central America and Mexico in 2023 aiming to reach the United States, fleeing poverty, violence, climate change and conflict.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, a 4,000-person caravan traveling through southern Mexico dispersed after leaders said migration authorities had promised to provide travel permits.</p>

<p>But the caravan's leader, Luis Garcia, said in a statement on Thursday that some migrants were "abandoned on the street" by authorities.</p>

<p>Mexico's migration institute did not respond to a request for comment.</p>

<h2><strong>"So scared"</strong></h2>

<p>The mass kidnapping has sparked increased fear among migrants in Mexico.</p>

<p>Diego Vargas, 25, of Colombia, said that just after Christmas, he and his wife landed a coveted appointment on a U.S. government app called CBP One, allowing them to approach a port of entry and cross into the United States legally.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-foreign-ministry-issues-warning-to-houthis-us-joe-biden-urges-to-strike-houthis-wion-676747">UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION</a></strong></p>

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<p>The appointment is scheduled at the Matamoros crossing in mid-January, he said.</p>

<p>But after learning of the kidnapping, he says he and his wife are faced with an impossible choice: risk their lives traveling on the same highway, or return to their country, where he says they fled death threats by a paramilitary group.</p>

<p>"We're so scared to try to reach the border," he said.</p>


The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity.

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity. He said that the migrants, who were found on Wednesday, were abandoned by their kidnappers in a parking lot in a shopping center in the northern city of Reynosa in the state of Tamaulipas. "Because there was a strong deployment (from Mexican authorities), they decided to free them, safe and sound," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in his morning press conference. The case has highlighted the risks faced by the hundreds of thousands of migrants who cross through Mexico en route to the U.S. border each year, who are targets of extortion and kidnapping by powerful criminal groups. Also Read | Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames Human rights activists have been warning for months about an escalating kidnapping crisis in Reynosa, where last year Reuters documented a pattern of kidnappings - and at times sexual assault - of migrants and asylum seekers. The 32 migrants were abducted on Saturday from a commercial bus that had departed the northern city of Monterrey for Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas, according to Mexican officials. They were forced off the bus while traveling through Reynosa and whisked away in cars by armed men, officials added. Indonesia Bandung train collision: Three dead on Java Island, several others injured In a separate case, authorities in the border state of Sonora said on Thursday they had rescued around 20 migrants, many also kidnapped off busses. Investigation opened The group kidnapped in Reynosa was discovered after an anonymous caller tipped off authorities to their whereabouts, the state security agency's spokesman told Reuters. The 32 migrants ranged in age from a 71-year-old man to a 1-year-old baby girl, with a total of 11 minors, he said, adding 26 were from Venezuela and six from Honduras. The state attorney general's office said the migrants had given their testimonies and that the office has opened an investigation. No one has been arrested so far, Cuellar said. Late on Thursday, Mexico's national migration institute said it would grant the migrants humanitarian visas. A record number of migrants traveled across Central America and Mexico in 2023 aiming to reach the United States, fleeing poverty, violence, climate change and conflict. Earlier this week, a 4,000-person caravan traveling through southern Mexico dispersed after leaders said migration authorities had promised to provide travel permits. But the caravan's leader, Luis Garcia, said in a statement on Thursday that some migrants were "abandoned on the street" by authorities. Mexico's migration institute did not respond to a request for comment. "So scared" The mass kidnapping has sparked increased fear among migrants in Mexico. Diego Vargas, 25, of Colombia, said that just after Christmas, he and his wife landed a coveted appointment on a U.S. government app called CBP One, allowing them to approach a port of entry and cross into the United States legally. Watch | UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION × The appointment is scheduled at the Matamoros crossing in mid-January, he said. But after learning of the kidnapping, he says he and his wife are faced with an impossible choice: risk their lives traveling on the same highway, or return to their country, where he says they fled death threats by a paramilitary group. "We're so scared to try to reach the border," he said.

Armed men kidnapped 32 migrants in Mexico for extortion, president says

Harvard's first Black president, Claudine Gay, resigned after criticism regarding her response to anti-semitism on campus. Gay is the second Ivy League president to resign in the past month following the congressional testimony.

Harvard President Claudine Gay quits amid row over response on anti-semitism

Russian president Putin vows to scale up attacks against Ukraine. Russia blames Ukraine for attack in Belgorod. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine attacks Russian territory on New Year

What do mass suspensions mean for Parliamentary democracy? | The India Story

Three Congress MPs were suspended from Lok Sabha on Thursday, taking the total number of suspended Opposition MPs from Parliament to 146. Over 140 Opposition MPs have been suspended since December 14 for causing disruptions to the functioning of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha and raising slogans while demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the December 13 Parliament security breach.

Opposition MPs protest suspensions: Opposition demands Home Minister's statement

Parliament row | Opposition MPs protest suspensions: Total number now at 146

Three more MPs suspended from Indian Parliament | Race to Power

Former US President Donald Trump is now ineligible to run for the 2024 Presidential polls because of his actions surrounding the 2021 attack on the Capitol, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday.

Donald Trump to run for US Presidential poll 2024 after Colorado ruling?

Harvard President Claudine Gay under microscope over plagiarism. According to reports, Gay committed plagiarism as a student. Plagiarism discovered in Gay's Doctoral Dissertation.

Harvard President scholarly work under microscope over plagiarism

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