<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the United States for a state visit. Amid the much-awaited visit, the White House, in a statement, said that India, like the United States, is a vibrant democracy and that the two nations are going to continue to work on their bilateral relations.</p>

<h2><strong>The world and democracies</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing a press conference, on Tuesday, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said: "Democracy is tough. We know that. We have seen it firsthand here in this country. It is tough. You have got to work at it."</p>

<p>"India has a vibrant democracy, and they, too, work at it. No democracy at any given point in time reaches perfection," he added, as reported by PTI news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-obama-trump-biden-and-more-narendra-modi-in-us-over-the-years-606408">Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips&nbsp;unfolded</a></strong></p>

<p>Further describing what the idea of democracy entails, he said: "You try to become more perfect... So we are going to continue to work on this bilateral relationship between these two vibrant, relevant, strong, and influential democracies in the world to improve the relationship."</p>

<h2><strong>I</strong>mproving relations&nbsp;between 'influential democracies'</h2>

<p>As per Kirby, improving the relationship between the "influential democracies" means, "We are also going to have conversations, we can have and we need to have somewhat uncomfortable conversations with our partners and our friends and our allies."</p>

<p>"That is what you can do when you have, when you are partners and friends and allies, is have conversations about uncomfortable issues," said the US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications.</p>

<h2><strong>US and human rights</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to a question about human rights, Kirby said President Joe Biden raises concerns over human rights wherever he goes around the world and with whatever world leader he is in communication with.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-in-us-indian-prime-minister-arrives-in-new-york-for-state-visit-606630">PM Modi lands in New York, begins landmark State visit to US</a></strong></p>

<p>"Human rights are a foundational element of this (Biden) administration's foreign policy, and you can certainly expect that the president will, as he always does and as you can do with friends and partners like Prime Minister Modi in India, raise our concerns about that," he added.</p>

<p>Kirby said that the US routinely raises human rights concerns with its friends, allies, partners and even nations that it is not so friendly with.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not bashful about raising those concerns, and we will continue to do that," he remarked.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi in USA</strong></h2>

<p>Indian PM Narendra Modi is visiting the US from June 21-24 at the invitation of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. The two will also&nbsp;host Modi at a State Dinner on June 22. On the same day, Modi is also scheduled to address the joint session of the US Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the United States for a state visit. Amid the much-awaited visit, the White House, in a statement, said that India, like the United States, is a vibrant democracy and that the two nations are going to continue to work on their bilateral relations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the United States for a state visit. Amid the much-awaited visit, the White House, in a statement, said that India, like the United States, is a vibrant democracy and that the two nations are going to continue to work on their bilateral relations. The world and democracies Addressing a press conference, on Tuesday, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said: "Democracy is tough. We know that. We have seen it firsthand here in this country. It is tough. You have got to work at it." "India has a vibrant democracy, and they, too, work at it. No democracy at any given point in time reaches perfection," he added, as reported by PTI news agency. Also read | Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips unfolded Further describing what the idea of democracy entails, he said: "You try to become more perfect... So we are going to continue to work on this bilateral relationship between these two vibrant, relevant, strong, and influential democracies in the world to improve the relationship." Improving relations between 'influential democracies' As per Kirby, improving the relationship between the "influential democracies" means, "We are also going to have conversations, we can have and we need to have somewhat uncomfortable conversations with our partners and our friends and our allies." "That is what you can do when you have, when you are partners and friends and allies, is have conversations about uncomfortable issues," said the US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications. US and human rights Responding to a question about human rights, Kirby said President Joe Biden raises concerns over human rights wherever he goes around the world and with whatever world leader he is in communication with. Also read | PM Modi lands in New York, begins landmark State visit to US "Human rights are a foundational element of this (Biden) administration's foreign policy, and you can certainly expect that the president will, as he always does and as you can do with friends and partners like Prime Minister Modi in India, raise our concerns about that," he added. Kirby said that the US routinely raises human rights concerns with its friends, allies, partners and even nations that it is not so friendly with. "We are not bashful about raising those concerns, and we will continue to do that," he remarked. Modi in USA Indian PM Narendra Modi is visiting the US from June 21-24 at the invitation of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. The two will also host Modi at a State Dinner on June 22. On the same day, Modi is also scheduled to address the joint session of the US Congress. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US says 'India has vibrant democracy,' both nations will continue to work on bilateral relations

<p>United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two counts of failure to pay federal income tax on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also admitted to possessing a gun illegally, said the prosecutors.</p>

<p>In a plea agreement with the US Attorney's Office in his home state of Delaware, Hunter Biden accepted owning a firearm in spite of being a drug user.</p>

<p>The agreement between the 53-year-old Biden and US prosecutors will still need to be approved by a federal judge.</p>

<h2><strong>Joe Biden expresses 'love and support' for son</strong></h2>

<p>Biden expressed love and support for his son after he pleaded guilty to tax crimes.</p>

<p>In a statement released by the White House, the POTUS and the First Lady said that they love and support their son and will have no further comment over this.</p>

<p>"The President and First Lady love their son and support him as he continues to rebuild his life. We will have no further comment," the White House said in a statement.</p>

<p>United States Attorney David Weiss said Hunter Biden had agreed to plead guilty to "two counts of willful failure to pay federal income tax".</p>

<p>As per the charges, Hunter did not file his tax returns on time, for the years 2017 and 2018, on earnings of more than $1.5 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In both years, he owed more than $100,000 in taxes on those earnings, as per news agency AFP.</p>

<p>Each count brings up to 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 or double.</p>

<p>Weiss said Hunter Biden was also facing one count of "possession of a firearm by a person who is an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance."</p>

<p>Hunter has also accepted that he used to struggle with drugs in the past.</p>

<p>He will not be indicted on the gun charge but will enter what is known as "pretrial diversion," which often involves counselling or rehabilitation.</p>

<p>Christopher Clark, Hunter Biden's lawyer, in a statement to US media, said "Hunter will take responsibility for two instances of misdemeanour failure to file tax payments."</p>

<p>"I know Hunter believes it is important to take responsibility for these mistakes he made during a period of turmoil and addiction in his life," Clark said. "He looks forward to continuing his recovery and moving forward."</p>

<p>Hunter Biden has been facing the wrath of the investigation since 2018, and later again in 2022.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>]</p>


United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two counts of failure to pay federal income tax on Tuesday. He also admitted to possessing a gun illegally, said the prosecutors.

United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two counts of failure to pay federal income tax on Tuesday. He also admitted to possessing a gun illegally, said the prosecutors. In a plea agreement with the US Attorney's Office in his home state of Delaware, Hunter Biden accepted owning a firearm in spite of being a drug user. The agreement between the 53-year-old Biden and US prosecutors will still need to be approved by a federal judge. Joe Biden expresses 'love and support' for son Biden expressed love and support for his son after he pleaded guilty to tax crimes. In a statement released by the White House, the POTUS and the First Lady said that they love and support their son and will have no further comment over this. "The President and First Lady love their son and support him as he continues to rebuild his life. We will have no further comment," the White House said in a statement. United States Attorney David Weiss said Hunter Biden had agreed to plead guilty to "two counts of willful failure to pay federal income tax". As per the charges, Hunter did not file his tax returns on time, for the years 2017 and 2018, on earnings of more than $1.5 million. In both years, he owed more than $100,000 in taxes on those earnings, as per news agency AFP. Each count brings up to 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 or double. Weiss said Hunter Biden was also facing one count of "possession of a firearm by a person who is an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance." Hunter has also accepted that he used to struggle with drugs in the past. He will not be indicted on the gun charge but will enter what is known as "pretrial diversion," which often involves counselling or rehabilitation. Christopher Clark, Hunter Biden's lawyer, in a statement to US media, said "Hunter will take responsibility for two instances of misdemeanour failure to file tax payments." "I know Hunter believes it is important to take responsibility for these mistakes he made during a period of turmoil and addiction in his life," Clark said. "He looks forward to continuing his recovery and moving forward." Hunter Biden has been facing the wrath of the investigation since 2018, and later again in 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ]

US President Joe Biden's son Hunter agrees to plead guilty to tax offenses

<p>A man allegedly wounded three women in a series of subway slashing incidents in Manhattan late on Sunday afternoon.</p>

<p>The New York Police Department (NYPD) officials while releasing the pictures of the suspect, said they were on the lookout for the man.</p>

<p>In a press release, the NYPD said that the man, in separate incidents, slashed three women at the 86th Street-Lexington Avenue subway station between 4 and 5 pm&nbsp;on Sunday.</p>

<p>The police said that the first woman, who was the victim of the slashing, was attacked from behind in the right leg when she was getting off a train.</p>

<p>Moments later, the accused again slashed a 48-year-old woman's right leg as she was waiting for her train, as per NYPD.</p>

<p>Then the alleged assailant went on to attack another 28-year-old woman who was sitting in a southbound car.</p>

<p>Police said that the woman was immediately rushed to the hospital with a severe injury on her leg.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨WANTED for ASSAULT: On 6/18/23 the suspect slashed two women on the leg, in two separate incidents. First at 4:14 PM at the 86 St/Lexington Ave subway station, then at 4:32 PM on a '4" train near Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall station. Any info? DM <a href="https://twitter.com/NYPDTips?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NYPDTips</a>, or call 800-577-TIPS. <a href="https://t.co/d9R1L0Zy1X">pic.twitter.com/d9R1L0Zy1X</a></p>
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYPDnews/status/1670779753601589251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>NYPD released surveillance images on Twitter after the suspect left the scene of the attack, said the police as per Fox News.</p>

<p>According to the police, the suspect was later seen fleeing through another station at Chambers Street before he disappeared.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-injuries-reported-after-shooting-incident-in-us-amid-juneteenth-celebration-reports-605772">At least one killed, 20 shot after mass shooting in US amid Juneteenth celebration</a></p>

<p>The police said that he was last seen wearing a Boston Red Sox hat and white T-shirt with an orange-and-yellow character on the front.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Three mass shootings in a day rock US</strong></h2>

<p>The United States on Saturday recorded three mass shootings in Illinois, Missouri and Washington in a day, leaving four dead, and at least 38 injured.</p>

<p>The first shooting occurred in central Pennsylvania on Saturday morning where two state troopers were shot, one fatally, in a multi-scene shootout with a man who initially fired bullets into state police vehicles outside police barracks, reported CNN on Sunday.</p>

<p>The accused, identified as 38-year-old Brandon Stine, got out of the vehicle and shot a long rifle into marked police cars, Col. Christopher Paris, the Pennsylvania State Police commissioner, said at a news conference on Sunday.</p>

<p>He then fled the scene, prompting the authorities to launch a wide manhunt that is said to have included helicopter reinforcement.</p>

<p>One of the state troopers, Lt James Wagner, located Stine early that afternoon and they exchanged gunfire. A shot from Stine’s gun struck and critically injured Wagner, Paris said.</p>

<p>“At this point in the incident, multiple citizens and witnesses arrived to provide aid to Lt. Wagner and use the radio that was in his car to summon additional troopers, (emergency medical services) and first responders to help,” Paris said. Stine fled the scene again.</p>

<p>The second shooting occurred on Saturday around 8.25 pm near Washington State during an electronic dance music festival in which two people were killed and three injured.</p>

<p>The incident occurred a few hundred yards from the Gorge Amphitheater near Georgetown after the shooter “randomly” started shooting at the crowd.</p>

<p>After firing the initial shots, the suspect started moving through the campground and “continued to shoot randomly into the crowd” until he was eventually confronted by police and taken into custody, Sheriff’s Office spokesman Kyle Foreman said.</p>

<p>At least 20 people were shot, one fatally, during an overnight shooting in the US state of Illinois southwest suburban Willowbrook, on Sunday (June 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local media reported citing witnesses that over 200 teens and young adults were gathered for a Juneteenth celebration when over two dozen shots were fired into the crowd. The incident took place at the intersection of Honeysuckle Rose Lane and Route 83 (Kingery Highway) in DuPage County.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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A man allegedly wounded three women in a series of subway slashing incidents in Manhattan late on Sunday afternoon. The New York Police Department (NYPD) officials while releasing the pictures of the suspect, said they were on the lookout for the man.

A man allegedly wounded three women in a series of subway slashing incidents in Manhattan late on Sunday afternoon. The New York Police Department (NYPD) officials while releasing the pictures of the suspect, said they were on the lookout for the man. In a press release, the NYPD said that the man, in separate incidents, slashed three women at the 86th Street-Lexington Avenue subway station between 4 and 5 pm on Sunday. The police said that the first woman, who was the victim of the slashing, was attacked from behind in the right leg when she was getting off a train. Moments later, the accused again slashed a 48-year-old woman's right leg as she was waiting for her train, as per NYPD. Then the alleged assailant went on to attack another 28-year-old woman who was sitting in a southbound car. Police said that the woman was immediately rushed to the hospital with a severe injury on her leg. 🚨WANTED for ASSAULT: On 6/18/23 the suspect slashed two women on the leg, in two separate incidents. First at 4:14 PM at the 86 St/Lexington Ave subway station, then at 4:32 PM on a '4" train near Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall station. Any info? DM @NYPDTips, or call 800-577-TIPS. pic.twitter.com/d9R1L0Zy1X — NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) June 19, 2023 × NYPD released surveillance images on Twitter after the suspect left the scene of the attack, said the police as per Fox News. According to the police, the suspect was later seen fleeing through another station at Chambers Street before he disappeared. Also read: At least one killed, 20 shot after mass shooting in US amid Juneteenth celebration The police said that he was last seen wearing a Boston Red Sox hat and white T-shirt with an orange-and-yellow character on the front. Three mass shootings in a day rock US The United States on Saturday recorded three mass shootings in Illinois, Missouri and Washington in a day, leaving four dead, and at least 38 injured. The first shooting occurred in central Pennsylvania on Saturday morning where two state troopers were shot, one fatally, in a multi-scene shootout with a man who initially fired bullets into state police vehicles outside police barracks, reported CNN on Sunday. The accused, identified as 38-year-old Brandon Stine, got out of the vehicle and shot a long rifle into marked police cars, Col. Christopher Paris, the Pennsylvania State Police commissioner, said at a news conference on Sunday. He then fled the scene, prompting the authorities to launch a wide manhunt that is said to have included helicopter reinforcement. One of the state troopers, Lt James Wagner, located Stine early that afternoon and they exchanged gunfire. A shot from Stine’s gun struck and critically injured Wagner, Paris said. “At this point in the incident, multiple citizens and witnesses arrived to provide aid to Lt. Wagner and use the radio that was in his car to summon additional troopers, (emergency medical services) and first responders to help,” Paris said. Stine fled the scene again. The second shooting occurred on Saturday around 8.25 pm near Washington State during an electronic dance music festival in which two people were killed and three injured. The incident occurred a few hundred yards from the Gorge Amphitheater near Georgetown after the shooter “randomly” started shooting at the crowd. After firing the initial shots, the suspect started moving through the campground and “continued to shoot randomly into the crowd” until he was eventually confronted by police and taken into custody, Sheriff’s Office spokesman Kyle Foreman said. At least 20 people were shot, one fatally, during an overnight shooting in the US state of Illinois southwest suburban Willowbrook, on Sunday (June 18). Local media reported citing witnesses that over 200 teens and young adults were gathered for a Juneteenth celebration when over two dozen shots were fired into the crowd. The incident took place at the intersection of Honeysuckle Rose Lane and Route 83 (Kingery Highway) in DuPage County. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Man slashes three women's legs from behind in New York

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the United States for a visit that is being billed as a turning point for Washington-New Delhi bilateral relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the Indian PM embarks on a visit that is anticipated to provide India with access to essential American technologies typically shared only with allied nations — a development that will enhance the growing relationship between the two countries — let's take a look at Modi's previous visits to the US.</p>

<h2><strong>Narendra Modi in US: The current visit</strong></h2>

<p>To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India.</p>

<p>However, the visit from June 21 to June 24 holds special importance due to its classification as a 'state visit,' which, as per diplomatic protocol, is the highest-ranked visit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-9-years-more-than-100-trips-here-are-indian-pm-narendra-modis-foreign-visits-in-numbers-604764">Explained: 9 years, over a 100 trips. A look at Indian PM Narendra Modi's foreign tours in numbers</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Modi in US: The previous visits</strong></h2>

<p><em><strong>26–30 September 2014</strong></em></p>

<p>In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit. During the visit, delivered his maiden speech in the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly on 27 September 2014.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi UN speech 2014" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2a000f2-6d24-4e90-9d20-9017401a8451" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_32.png" /></p>

<p>As per the UN website, in his speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the global surge of democracy, expressed India's willingness to engage in bilateral dialogue with Pakistan, emphasised the need for global partnership to combat terrorism and pursue inclusive development, and promoted the practice of yoga for a sustainable world.</p>

<p>He also met with the-then US President Barack Obama and sought investment from prominent CEOs.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi-Obama first meet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="040daa79-fe8e-4cdb-b396-44d28fc4df85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_28.png" /></p>

<p><strong><em>24–30 September 2015</em></strong></p>

<p>In 2015, Narendra Modi commenced his visit to the United States of America on September 24th. It was part of a trans-Atlantic trip that included a visit to Ireland.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-us-share-unprecedented-trust-says-prime-minister-narendra-modi-606318">India and US share ‘unprecedented’ trust, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>During the first leg of the visit, in New York, he had a roundtable meeting with top American CEOs from the financial sector. As per narendramodi.in, he also had "extensive talks" with the-then PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, PM of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves and Guyana resident David Arthur Granger.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi 2015 us" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81aebb00-7bd8-4341-a73a-5de7d6c809da" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/7_0.png" /></p>

<p>Modi also met heads of various business firms.</p>

<p><em><strong>March 31 - April 1 2016</strong></em></p>

<p>The following year, Modi was in the US for the Nuclear Security Summit. During the official working visit, during which he met with Barack Obama at the White House.</p>

<p>As per the Obama White House archive website, during their third bilateral meeting, the two leaders reviewed and reaffirmed their deepening strategic partnership.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi US 2016" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11c2f13d-d535-49dd-a06c-cf91d9c2c8c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/10.png" /></p>

<p>On the sidelines of the Nuclear summit, he also held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister David Cameron of the UK and Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada.</p>

<p><em><strong>6–8&nbsp;June&nbsp;2016</strong></em></p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi held a progress review meeting with President Barack Obama, focusing on defence, security, and energy. They discussed the advancement of these key areas of cooperation between India and the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Modi congress US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3626da09-7c86-430c-a092-dbeef948db55" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/9.png" /></p>

<p>Additionally, Prime Minister Modi addressed a joint session of the United States Congress, where, as per the House of Representatives website, he promoted a strong relationship between the United States and India focused on cooperation, connectivity, respect for global commons, inclusiveness, and adherence to international rules and norms.</p>

<p>"Our relationship is primed for a momentous future," he said.</p>

<p><em><strong>25–26 June&nbsp;2017 </strong></em></p>

<p>During the second leg of his three-nation tour, Narendra Modi visited America, where he had his first bilateral meeting with the-then President Donald Trump. The two met at the White House for a 'working dinner'. His visit led to the US declaring the Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin as a "global terrorist".</p>

<p><img alt="Modi-Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16cc5859-8af9-49cb-a8a6-8ba2a857a56e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/11.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>20–27 September 2019</strong></em></p>

<p>Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. He was there to attend the 74th United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="2019 Modi-Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c66d391d-ce02-49ab-949c-3458b5ccaae8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/12.png" /></p>

<p>During the visit,&nbsp;he participated in a significant event called "Howdy, Modi"&nbsp;in Houston, Texas.&nbsp;The event&nbsp;garnered attention both in India and the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="2019 Modi-Trump Howdy Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98ad3694-f4eb-45f7-a8cf-da3dbb29cf33" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/13.png" /></p>

<p>The event took place on September 22nd at the NRG Stadium and attracted a crowd of over 50,000 people, making it one of the largest gatherings for a visiting foreign leader in the United States, excluding the Pope. The summit, supported by numerous volunteers and partner organizations, aimed to strengthen the relationship between India and the United States.</p>

<p><em><strong>23–25 September 2021</strong></em></p>

<p>On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi-Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="55224e1a-01c1-462b-97fc-d6da60cfd0dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/14.png" /></p>

<p>In Washington, he met Biden and also held a meeting with United States Vice President Kamala Harris.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi-Harris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1fb12e6d-60fa-44e1-a485-cdf620b7ba51" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/16_0.png" /><br />
&nbsp;<br />
He also held bilateral meetings with several tech CEOs, Australia's Scott Morrison, America's VP Kamala Harris, and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Modi US 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="477f51f9-3349-4b3f-9112-72ac8cee9d1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/15_0.png" /></p>

<p>Modi also participated in the first in-person QUAD leaders' summit at the White House and addressed the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the United States for a visit that is being billed as a turning point for Washington-New Delhi bilateral relations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the United States for a visit that is being billed as a turning point for Washington-New Delhi bilateral relations. As the Indian PM embarks on a visit that is anticipated to provide India with access to essential American technologies typically shared only with allied nations — a development that will enhance the growing relationship between the two countries — let's take a look at Modi's previous visits to the US. Narendra Modi in US: The current visit To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India. However, the visit from June 21 to June 24 holds special importance due to its classification as a 'state visit,' which, as per diplomatic protocol, is the highest-ranked visit. Also read | Explained: 9 years, over a 100 trips. A look at Indian PM Narendra Modi's foreign tours in numbers Modi in US: The previous visits 26–30 September 2014 In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit. During the visit, delivered his maiden speech in the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly on 27 September 2014. As per the UN website, in his speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the global surge of democracy, expressed India's willingness to engage in bilateral dialogue with Pakistan, emphasised the need for global partnership to combat terrorism and pursue inclusive development, and promoted the practice of yoga for a sustainable world. He also met with the-then US President Barack Obama and sought investment from prominent CEOs. 24–30 September 2015 In 2015, Narendra Modi commenced his visit to the United States of America on September 24th. It was part of a trans-Atlantic trip that included a visit to Ireland. Also read | India and US share ‘unprecedented’ trust, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi During the first leg of the visit, in New York, he had a roundtable meeting with top American CEOs from the financial sector. As per narendramodi.in, he also had "extensive talks" with the-then PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, PM of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves and Guyana resident David Arthur Granger. Modi also met heads of various business firms. March 31 - April 1 2016 The following year, Modi was in the US for the Nuclear Security Summit. During the official working visit, during which he met with Barack Obama at the White House. As per the Obama White House archive website, during their third bilateral meeting, the two leaders reviewed and reaffirmed their deepening strategic partnership. On the sidelines of the Nuclear summit, he also held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister David Cameron of the UK and Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. 6–8 June 2016 Prime Minister Modi held a progress review meeting with President Barack Obama, focusing on defence, security, and energy. They discussed the advancement of these key areas of cooperation between India and the United States. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi addressed a joint session of the United States Congress, where, as per the House of Representatives website, he promoted a strong relationship between the United States and India focused on cooperation, connectivity, respect for global commons, inclusiveness, and adherence to international rules and norms. "Our relationship is primed for a momentous future," he said. 25–26 June 2017 During the second leg of his three-nation tour, Narendra Modi visited America, where he had his first bilateral meeting with the-then President Donald Trump. The two met at the White House for a 'working dinner'. His visit led to the US declaring the Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin as a "global terrorist". 20–27 September 2019 Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. He was there to attend the 74th United Nations General Assembly. During the visit, he participated in a significant event called "Howdy, Modi" in Houston, Texas. The event garnered attention both in India and the United States. The event took place on September 22nd at the NRG Stadium and attracted a crowd of over 50,000 people, making it one of the largest gatherings for a visiting foreign leader in the United States, excluding the Pope. The summit, supported by numerous volunteers and partner organizations, aimed to strengthen the relationship between India and the United States. 23–25 September 2021 On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office. In Washington, he met Biden and also held a meeting with United States Vice President Kamala Harris. He also held bilateral meetings with several tech CEOs, Australia's Scott Morrison, America's VP Kamala Harris, and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga. Modi also participated in the first in-person QUAD leaders' summit at the White House and addressed the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips unfolded

In Pics | Most patriotic states in America

<p>An ardent fan of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maryland, United States, got a car number plate 'NMODI'.<br />
<br />
NRI Raghavendra, speaking to the news agency ANI, said that the prime minister is an inspiration to him and he has been waiting eagerly to welcome PM Modi in the US.<br />
<br />
"I took this plate back in 2016, November. Narendra Modi is an inspiration to me. He inspires me to do something good for the nation, for society, for the world. PM Modi is coming here so I'm eagerly waiting to welcome him," Raghavendra stated.<br />
<br />
Apart from the name of the prime minister, the car also has the state name Virginia written on it.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | A 'fan' of PM Narendra Modi flaunts "NMODI" car number plate in Maryland, USA <a href="https://t.co/AO5WRwdGoa">pic.twitter.com/AO5WRwdGoa</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1669898905214156800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, ahead of PM Narendra Modi's upcoming US visit, the Indian Tricolour was seen fluttering outside the White House, in Washington, DC on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modis-us-visit-a-watershed-moment-for-india-us-ties-605341">Narendra Modi's US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties</a></p>

<p>Speaking about Modi's awaited US visit, an Indian national living in New Jersey, Jesal Nar, said, "It's really an honour and pride to see the tricolour. I go across the United States for my work purpose carrying a tricolour."</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's US visit</strong></h2>

<p>Indian prime minister will be embarking on his first state visit to the United States next week. PM Modi is set to address the Joint Sitting of the US Congress from June 20-24 and is also set to meet various American politicians, noted personalities and prominent citizens from the diaspora.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, practice for the ceremonial welcome of the prime minister is underway on the South Lawn of the White House. Children were seen practising for the welcome ceremony of the Indian PM Modi.<br />
<br />
The prime minister will be visiting the United States after&nbsp;receiving invitations from US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.<br />
<br />
PM Modi's visit will commence in New York where he will lead the International Day of Yoga's celebrations at the United Nations Headquarters on June 21.<br />
<br />
Recently, US Congressman Buddy Carter stated that the nation is waiting to hear PM Modi address a joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda?</strong></p>

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<p>"US-India relationship is very important. We are looking forward to hearing PM Modi address the joint session. PM Modi has served the people well," stated Carter on PM Modi's visit to the US.<br />
<br />
Speaking on PM Modi's visit, US Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith said, "Next week, we will be honoured to have him (PM Modi) address a joint meeting of the Congress underscoring the significance of the relationship between the US and India."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An ardent fan of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maryland, United States, got a car number plate 'NMODI'. NRI Raghavendra, speaking to the news agency ANI, said that the prime minister is an inspiration to him and he has been waiting eagerly to welcome PM Modi in the US.

An ardent fan of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maryland, United States, got a car number plate 'NMODI'. NRI Raghavendra, speaking to the news agency ANI, said that the prime minister is an inspiration to him and he has been waiting eagerly to welcome PM Modi in the US. "I took this plate back in 2016, November. Narendra Modi is an inspiration to me. He inspires me to do something good for the nation, for society, for the world. PM Modi is coming here so I'm eagerly waiting to welcome him," Raghavendra stated. Apart from the name of the prime minister, the car also has the state name Virginia written on it. #WATCH | A 'fan' of PM Narendra Modi flaunts "NMODI" car number plate in Maryland, USA pic.twitter.com/AO5WRwdGoa — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2023 × Meanwhile, ahead of PM Narendra Modi's upcoming US visit, the Indian Tricolour was seen fluttering outside the White House, in Washington, DC on Friday. ALSO READ | Narendra Modi's US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties Speaking about Modi's awaited US visit, an Indian national living in New Jersey, Jesal Nar, said, "It's really an honour and pride to see the tricolour. I go across the United States for my work purpose carrying a tricolour." PM Modi's US visit Indian prime minister will be embarking on his first state visit to the United States next week. PM Modi is set to address the Joint Sitting of the US Congress from June 20-24 and is also set to meet various American politicians, noted personalities and prominent citizens from the diaspora. Meanwhile, practice for the ceremonial welcome of the prime minister is underway on the South Lawn of the White House. Children were seen practising for the welcome ceremony of the Indian PM Modi. The prime minister will be visiting the United States after receiving invitations from US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. PM Modi's visit will commence in New York where he will lead the International Day of Yoga's celebrations at the United Nations Headquarters on June 21. Recently, US Congressman Buddy Carter stated that the nation is waiting to hear PM Modi address a joint session of the US Congress. WATCH | PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda? "US-India relationship is very important. We are looking forward to hearing PM Modi address the joint session. PM Modi has served the people well," stated Carter on PM Modi's visit to the US. Speaking on PM Modi's visit, US Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith said, "Next week, we will be honoured to have him (PM Modi) address a joint meeting of the Congress underscoring the significance of the relationship between the US and India." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: PM Narendra Modi's fan gets car number plate 'NMODI', elated over his US visit

<p>In Washington, the city's growing rat population has become a cause for concern. With warmer winters, a rising population, and the proliferation of outdoor dining areas after the Covid pandemic, the rat problem has been exacerbated. As a response, a group of residents has taken matters into their own hands by organizing weekly "ratting" expeditions.</p>

<h2><strong>How 'ratting' works&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As per AFP, during these expeditions, a group of humans and their dogs go on a hunt for rats. The diverse group of participants includes individuals of different races, ages, and backgrounds, some of whom travel from neighbouring states to join in the ratting activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group utilises various dog breeds, such as dachshunds, terriers, and sighthounds, which are adept at chasing and capturing rats.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-year-old-man-falls-4000-feet-to-his-death-from-grand-canyons-skywalk-605881">33-year-old man falls 4,000 feet to his death from Grand Canyon's Skywalk</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why not just use rat poison?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the hunters, their dogs are more effective in controlling the rat population. The dogs quickly catch and kill the rats, quickly snapping their spines, preventing them from suffering prolonged agony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Primitive but effective," says one of the hunters, 75-year-old Teddy Moritz, aka 'Grandma Death'. "It's a good way to organically control rats," she adds.</p>

<p>Rat poison, in contrast, takes time to exterminate the vermin and can harm other species like such as hawks and owls in the process. Another way of pest control is 'snap traps' that can also take days to kill rats.</p>

<p>Talking to AFP, rodentologist Bobby Corrigan said that while scientific data validating the efficacy of ratting is limited, the use of dogs for pest control dates back centuries, particularly on farms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-us-high-school-student-denied-diploma-after-she-danced-her-heart-out-in-graduation-ceremony-605888">Watch | US high school student denied diploma after she danced her heart out in graduation ceremony</a></strong></p>

<p>"There's no doubt about it — these days, dogs are making a resurgence in being used as a rat control tool," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Washington's rat problem</strong></h2>

<p>The District of Columbia, as Washington was previously known, consistently makes the top five list of America's rattiest cities. According to local media reports, there was a significant increase in the number of calls to a city hotline for rat issues in 2022 compared to the previous year. The hotline received nearly 13,400 calls from concerned residents seeking assistance with rat-related problems. In comparison, last year they answered some 2,000 fewer calls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the course of a three-hour expedition, the group achieves more than 30 rat kills, disposing of the bodies in trash cans. The participants emphasise the teamwork between humans and dogs, considering it an effective method of pest control that benefits the city.</p>

<h2><strong>Dogs, cats and humans</strong></h2>

<p>Dogs are not the only animals involved in tackling Washington's rat problem. Cats also play a role, primarily preying on mice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Human Rescue Alliance launched the "Blue Collar Cats" program in 2017, which matches stray cats with local businesses. The cats receive vaccines, shelter, a dedicated caretaker, and a reliable food source, and neutered to prevent breeding.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In Washington, the city's growing rat population has become a cause for concern. With warmer winters, a rising population, and the proliferation of outdoor dining areas after the Covid pandemic, the rat problem has been exacerbated.

In Washington, the city's growing rat population has become a cause for concern. With warmer winters, a rising population, and the proliferation of outdoor dining areas after the Covid pandemic, the rat problem has been exacerbated. As a response, a group of residents has taken matters into their own hands by organizing weekly "ratting" expeditions. How 'ratting' works As per AFP, during these expeditions, a group of humans and their dogs go on a hunt for rats. The diverse group of participants includes individuals of different races, ages, and backgrounds, some of whom travel from neighbouring states to join in the ratting activities. The group utilises various dog breeds, such as dachshunds, terriers, and sighthounds, which are adept at chasing and capturing rats. Also read | 33-year-old man falls 4,000 feet to his death from Grand Canyon's Skywalk Why not just use rat poison? As per the hunters, their dogs are more effective in controlling the rat population. The dogs quickly catch and kill the rats, quickly snapping their spines, preventing them from suffering prolonged agony. "Primitive but effective," says one of the hunters, 75-year-old Teddy Moritz, aka 'Grandma Death'. "It's a good way to organically control rats," she adds. Rat poison, in contrast, takes time to exterminate the vermin and can harm other species like such as hawks and owls in the process. Another way of pest control is 'snap traps' that can also take days to kill rats. Talking to AFP, rodentologist Bobby Corrigan said that while scientific data validating the efficacy of ratting is limited, the use of dogs for pest control dates back centuries, particularly on farms. Also read | Watch | US high school student denied diploma after she danced her heart out in graduation ceremony "There's no doubt about it — these days, dogs are making a resurgence in being used as a rat control tool," he said. Washington's rat problem The District of Columbia, as Washington was previously known, consistently makes the top five list of America's rattiest cities. According to local media reports, there was a significant increase in the number of calls to a city hotline for rat issues in 2022 compared to the previous year. The hotline received nearly 13,400 calls from concerned residents seeking assistance with rat-related problems. In comparison, last year they answered some 2,000 fewer calls. Over the course of a three-hour expedition, the group achieves more than 30 rat kills, disposing of the bodies in trash cans. The participants emphasise the teamwork between humans and dogs, considering it an effective method of pest control that benefits the city. Dogs, cats and humans Dogs are not the only animals involved in tackling Washington's rat problem. Cats also play a role, primarily preying on mice. The Human Rescue Alliance launched the "Blue Collar Cats" program in 2017, which matches stray cats with local businesses. The cats receive vaccines, shelter, a dedicated caretaker, and a reliable food source, and neutered to prevent breeding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Primitive but effective': Washington turns to dogs and cats to help deal with rising rat problem

<p>A jury on Friday found an American man guilty of claiming the lives of 11 Jewish worshippers at Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue in the year 2018, in what is deemed the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in the history of the United States, reported local media.</p>

<p>Robert Bowers was convicted of opening fire inside the synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on October 27, 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Federal prosecutors charged Bowers with 63 counts, which also included 11 counts of obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs resulting in death. The jury found him guilty on all counts, a spokesperson for the US Attorney's office in Pittsburgh confirmed, as cited by news agency Reuters.</p>

<p>Jurors, during his trial, heard testimony from the survivors of the attack. The evidence of Bowers' antisemitism included several posts that he made against Jews on a far-right website in the months leading to the attack.</p>

<p>The jury will now decide if Bowers should receive the death penalty for the shooting rampage.</p>

<p>In the sentencing phase, prosecutors will try to showcase that exacerbating factors were involved, making a case that Bowers carefully plotted the attack and that he targeted vulnerable victims. Most of the victims of the shooting were elderly.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-israeli-soldiers-one-civilian-injured-after-shooting-incident-in-west-bank-604028">At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank</a></p>

<p>Defence lawyers for Bowers have argued that he suffers from major mental health issues and that a death sentence would violate the Constitution on the grounds.</p>

<p>They claimed he had a "misguided intent" of wanting to stop one of the Jewish organisations from helping immigrants settle in the United States.</p>

<p>The court heard that the former truck driver yelled "All Jews must die!" during the mass shooting, which in turn added to the fears about a revival of far-right extremists and neo-Nazis across the US.</p>

<h2><strong>2018 synagogue massacre</strong></h2>

<p>The incident took place during Shabbat services and Bowers was armed with an AR-15 semiautomatic assault rifle and three Glock handguns. The police then arrested him at the scene.</p>

<p>The massacre claimed the lives of members of three congregations in the synagogue. Two additional worshippers and several police officers were also injured in the incident.</p>

<p>As per local media reports, Bowers had expressed strong anti-Semitic views online before the attack.</p>

<p>The then-US president Donald Trump had called for Bowers to receive the death penalty.</p>

<p>However, the Department of Justice under President Joe Biden has not carried out any federal executions since he came to power in January 2021.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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A jury on Friday found an American man guilty of claiming the lives of 11 Jewish worshippers at Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue in the year 2018, in what is deemed the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in the history of the United States, reported local media.

A jury on Friday found an American man guilty of claiming the lives of 11 Jewish worshippers at Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue in the year 2018, in what is deemed the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in the history of the United States, reported local media. Robert Bowers was convicted of opening fire inside the synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on October 27, 2018. Federal prosecutors charged Bowers with 63 counts, which also included 11 counts of obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs resulting in death. The jury found him guilty on all counts, a spokesperson for the US Attorney's office in Pittsburgh confirmed, as cited by news agency Reuters. Jurors, during his trial, heard testimony from the survivors of the attack. The evidence of Bowers' antisemitism included several posts that he made against Jews on a far-right website in the months leading to the attack. The jury will now decide if Bowers should receive the death penalty for the shooting rampage. In the sentencing phase, prosecutors will try to showcase that exacerbating factors were involved, making a case that Bowers carefully plotted the attack and that he targeted vulnerable victims. Most of the victims of the shooting were elderly. Also read: At least four Israeli soldiers, one civilian injured after shooting incident in West Bank Defence lawyers for Bowers have argued that he suffers from major mental health issues and that a death sentence would violate the Constitution on the grounds. They claimed he had a "misguided intent" of wanting to stop one of the Jewish organisations from helping immigrants settle in the United States. The court heard that the former truck driver yelled "All Jews must die!" during the mass shooting, which in turn added to the fears about a revival of far-right extremists and neo-Nazis across the US. 2018 synagogue massacre The incident took place during Shabbat services and Bowers was armed with an AR-15 semiautomatic assault rifle and three Glock handguns. The police then arrested him at the scene. The massacre claimed the lives of members of three congregations in the synagogue. Two additional worshippers and several police officers were also injured in the incident. As per local media reports, Bowers had expressed strong anti-Semitic views online before the attack. The then-US president Donald Trump had called for Bowers to receive the death penalty. However, the Department of Justice under President Joe Biden has not carried out any federal executions since he came to power in January 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pittsburgh synagogue assailant convicted in deadliest antisemitic attack in US history

<p>The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) on Thursday said that several federal government agencies in the United States were hit by a global cyberattack affecting widely used software.</p>

<p>Eric Goldstein, the agency’s executive assistant director for cybersecurity, in a statement to CNN, said that the security agency is "providing support to several federal agencies that have experienced intrusions after the discovery of a weakness in the file transfer software MOVEit."</p>

<p>“We are working urgently to understand impacts and ensure timely remediation,” he added.</p>

<p>It is not yet clear if the Russian-speaking cyber gang, which has claimed responsibility for several cyberattacks in the past, was the one behind intrusions faced by federal agencies.</p>

<p>As per CNN reports, a CISA spokesperson did not comment on being asked as to who was responsible for the breaching of federal agencies and how many were affected by the hacking crusade.</p>

<p>As per news agency Reuters, the FBI and National Security Agency also did not immediately respond to emails seeking details on the breaches.</p>

<p>CISA Director Jen Easterly told MSNBC on Thursday that she was absolutely confident that there will be no significant impacts from the hacks on federal agencies.</p>

<p>Created by Progress Software Corp, the MOVEit tool is used to transfer files by organisations between their partners or customers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>John Hammond, a senior researcher at the security firm Huntress, said that this tool could also be used by financial institutions that require their customers to upload their data to apply for a loan.</p>

<p>"There's a whole lot of potential for what an adversary might be able to get into," he said.</p>

<p>The online extortion group Cl0p, which claimed responsibility for the MOVEit hack, previously had said that it would not exploit any data taken from government agencies.</p>

<p>"If you are a government, city or police service do not worry, we erased all your data," the group said in a statement on its website.</p>

<p>As per the Reuters report, Cl0p or Progress also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) on Thursday said that several federal government agencies in the United States were hit by a global cyberattack affecting widely used software.

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) on Thursday said that several federal government agencies in the United States were hit by a global cyberattack affecting widely used software. Eric Goldstein, the agency’s executive assistant director for cybersecurity, in a statement to CNN, said that the security agency is "providing support to several federal agencies that have experienced intrusions after the discovery of a weakness in the file transfer software MOVEit." “We are working urgently to understand impacts and ensure timely remediation,” he added. It is not yet clear if the Russian-speaking cyber gang, which has claimed responsibility for several cyberattacks in the past, was the one behind intrusions faced by federal agencies. As per CNN reports, a CISA spokesperson did not comment on being asked as to who was responsible for the breaching of federal agencies and how many were affected by the hacking crusade. As per news agency Reuters, the FBI and National Security Agency also did not immediately respond to emails seeking details on the breaches. CISA Director Jen Easterly told MSNBC on Thursday that she was absolutely confident that there will be no significant impacts from the hacks on federal agencies. Created by Progress Software Corp, the MOVEit tool is used to transfer files by organisations between their partners or customers. John Hammond, a senior researcher at the security firm Huntress, said that this tool could also be used by financial institutions that require their customers to upload their data to apply for a loan. "There's a whole lot of potential for what an adversary might be able to get into," he said. The online extortion group Cl0p, which claimed responsibility for the MOVEit hack, previously had said that it would not exploit any data taken from government agencies. "If you are a government, city or police service do not worry, we erased all your data," the group said in a statement on its website. As per the Reuters report, Cl0p or Progress also did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US federal government agencies hit by global cyberattack

<p>Pentagon whistleblower David Grusch, in some more baffling claims, said that the Vatican was fully aware of non-human intelligence's existence and that it assisted the United States in retrieving a UFO, which was downed and was in possession of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini when the Second World War was at its end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>36-year-old Grusch has served in the Air Force for 14 years and is a decorated Afghanistan combat officer who had earlier worked with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).</p>

<p>His role is to work as the representative of NRO when dealing with the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force. The task force was established specifically to investigate the UFOs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-likely-to-communicate-through-newly-discovered-supernova-claim-scientists-604051">Aliens likely to communicate through newly discovered supernova, claim scientists</a></p>

<h2><strong>First-ever UFO crash</strong></h2>

<p>Making some shocking revelations, Grusch stated that a top-secret UFO retrieval programme was run by the United States for decades and added that the 'Vatican was involved' in the first-ever crash of a UFO, as per media reports.</p>

<p>Grusch stated that the UFO's first recovery took place in Magenta, Italy in 1933. He added that the UFO was in possession of Italian dictator Mussolini's government until 1944-1945 when America was tipped off about it by Pope Pius XII.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the UFO was partially intact and was kept at a secure airbase until it was retrieved by the US after the fascist Italian regime's collapse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"1933 was the first recovery in Europe, in Magenta, Italy. They recovered a partially intact vehicle, and the Italian government moved it to a secure airbase in Italy until around 1944-1945. The Pope back-channelled that, and told the Americans what the Italians had and we ended up scooping it," Grusch said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>While clarifying whether the Catholic Church knew about the 'non-human' existence on earth, Grusch said, "Certainly". He said that his claims must be believed because "I have the credentials, and I was an intelligence officer."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He stated that UFO sightings were widely known during Mussolini's dictatorship in Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is America hiding Alien technology?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Aliens on earth, have killed humans, says whistleblower&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>He added that the 'non-human' intelligence present on earth has acted with malevolence and even killed some humans.</p>

<p>"I think the logical fallacy there is because they're advanced, they're kind. We'll never really understand their full intent and that's because we're not them. But I think what appears to be malevolent activity has happened. That's based on nuclear site probing activities and witness testimony. I was briefed by a few individuals on the programme that there were malevolent events like that," he said while answering if aliens have killed humans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At the very least, I saw substantive evidence that white-collar crime was committed...unfortunately. I've heard some really un-American things I don't want to repeat right now. There is a sophisticated disinformation campaign targeting the US populace which is extremely unethical and immoral. We are most definitely not alone," he added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pentagon whistleblower David Grusch, in some more baffling claims, said that the Vatican was fully aware of non-human intelligence's existence and that it assisted the United States in retrieving a UFO, which was downed and was in possession of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini when the Second World War was at its end.

Pentagon whistleblower David Grusch, in some more baffling claims, said that the Vatican was fully aware of non-human intelligence's existence and that it assisted the United States in retrieving a UFO, which was downed and was in possession of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini when the Second World War was at its end. 36-year-old Grusch has served in the Air Force for 14 years and is a decorated Afghanistan combat officer who had earlier worked with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). His role is to work as the representative of NRO when dealing with the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force. The task force was established specifically to investigate the UFOs. ALSO READ | Aliens likely to communicate through newly discovered supernova, claim scientists First-ever UFO crash Making some shocking revelations, Grusch stated that a top-secret UFO retrieval programme was run by the United States for decades and added that the 'Vatican was involved' in the first-ever crash of a UFO, as per media reports. Grusch stated that the UFO's first recovery took place in Magenta, Italy in 1933. He added that the UFO was in possession of Italian dictator Mussolini's government until 1944-1945 when America was tipped off about it by Pope Pius XII. He added that the UFO was partially intact and was kept at a secure airbase until it was retrieved by the US after the fascist Italian regime's collapse. "1933 was the first recovery in Europe, in Magenta, Italy. They recovered a partially intact vehicle, and the Italian government moved it to a secure airbase in Italy until around 1944-1945. The Pope back-channelled that, and told the Americans what the Italians had and we ended up scooping it," Grusch said. While clarifying whether the Catholic Church knew about the 'non-human' existence on earth, Grusch said, "Certainly". He said that his claims must be believed because "I have the credentials, and I was an intelligence officer." He stated that UFO sightings were widely known during Mussolini's dictatorship in Italy. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Is America hiding Alien technology? Aliens on earth, have killed humans, says whistleblower He added that the 'non-human' intelligence present on earth has acted with malevolence and even killed some humans. "I think the logical fallacy there is because they're advanced, they're kind. We'll never really understand their full intent and that's because we're not them. But I think what appears to be malevolent activity has happened. That's based on nuclear site probing activities and witness testimony. I was briefed by a few individuals on the programme that there were malevolent events like that," he said while answering if aliens have killed humans. "At the very least, I saw substantive evidence that white-collar crime was committed...unfortunately. I've heard some really un-American things I don't want to repeat right now. There is a sophisticated disinformation campaign targeting the US populace which is extremely unethical and immoral. We are most definitely not alone," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Alien connection of Vatican? Pentagon whistleblower says Church assisted US in retrieving a UFO

<p>The US military can develop and operate out of bases in Papua New Guinea, according to a landmark security pact underpinning Washington's efforts to outflank China in the Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The full text of the deal was tabled in Papua New Guinea's parliament on Wednesday evening and obtained by AFP, shedding light on details that have been closely guarded since the pact was inked in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Papua New Guinea's agreement, the United States will be able to station troops and vessels at six key ports and airports, including Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island and facilities in the capital Port Moresby.</p>

<p>Washington would have "unimpeded access" to the sites to "pre-position equipment, supplies and materiel", and have "exclusive use" of some zones, where development and "construction activities" could be carried out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agreement opens the door to Washington establishing a new military footprint at a strategically prized deep-water port, at a time of growing rivalry with Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Perched at the southwest edge of the Pacific Ocean, Lombrum has in the past been used as a garrison for British, German, Japanese, Australian and US troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During World War II it was one of the largest US bases in the Pacific, with 200 ships at anchor, including six battleships and 20 aircraft carriers that were used to retake the Philippines from Japan.</p>

<p>China had sought its own foothold at Lombrum in recent years, before being pipped at the post by Australia and the United States, who in 2018 agreed to jointly develop the facility with Papua New Guinea.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/aliens-mystery-deepens-after-police-fit-surveillance-cameras-to-track-ufo-claim-604535">US: Cops install surveillance cameras at Las Vegas home after UFO landing, aliens sighting claim</a></p>

<p>Access for US troops to Lombrum could be used to reinforce US facilities on Guam to the north, which could be key in the event of a conflict over Taiwan.</p>

<h2><strong>New Great Game</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister James Marape has been forced to defend the deal against a wave of protests and criticism, with some opponents questioning whether Papua New Guinea was signing away its sovereignty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have allowed our military to be eroded in the last 48 years," he told parliament on Wednesday evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sovereignty is defined by the robustness and strength of your military."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rich in natural resources and close to key shipping routes, Papua New Guinea increasingly finds itself at the centre of a diplomatic tug-of-war between Washington and Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former prime minister Peter O'Neill said the agreement painted a target on Papua New Guinea's back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"America is doing it for the protection of their own national interest, we all understand the geopolitics happening within our region," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden had been due to visit Papua New Guinea to sign the deal, a trip that was derailed by a budget tussle in the US Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington is trying to woo Pacific nations with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support, after similar moves by Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chinese firms have snapped up mines and ports across the Pacific, and last year inked a secretive security pact with the nearby Solomon Islands that could allow China to deploy troops to the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US Fed pauses rate hike: How will it impact the markets?</strong></p>

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<p>The United States fears that a Chinese military foothold in the South Pacific could outflank its facilities on Guam, and make the defence of Taiwan more complicated in the event of an invasion by mainland China.&nbsp;</p>

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The US military can develop and operate out of bases in Papua New Guinea, according to a landmark security pact underpinning Washington's efforts to outflank China in the Pacific.

The US military can develop and operate out of bases in Papua New Guinea, according to a landmark security pact underpinning Washington's efforts to outflank China in the Pacific. The full text of the deal was tabled in Papua New Guinea's parliament on Wednesday evening and obtained by AFP, shedding light on details that have been closely guarded since the pact was inked in May. With Papua New Guinea's agreement, the United States will be able to station troops and vessels at six key ports and airports, including Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island and facilities in the capital Port Moresby. Washington would have "unimpeded access" to the sites to "pre-position equipment, supplies and materiel", and have "exclusive use" of some zones, where development and "construction activities" could be carried out. The agreement opens the door to Washington establishing a new military footprint at a strategically prized deep-water port, at a time of growing rivalry with Beijing. Perched at the southwest edge of the Pacific Ocean, Lombrum has in the past been used as a garrison for British, German, Japanese, Australian and US troops. During World War II it was one of the largest US bases in the Pacific, with 200 ships at anchor, including six battleships and 20 aircraft carriers that were used to retake the Philippines from Japan. China had sought its own foothold at Lombrum in recent years, before being pipped at the post by Australia and the United States, who in 2018 agreed to jointly develop the facility with Papua New Guinea. Also read | US: Cops install surveillance cameras at Las Vegas home after UFO landing, aliens sighting claim Access for US troops to Lombrum could be used to reinforce US facilities on Guam to the north, which could be key in the event of a conflict over Taiwan. New Great Game Prime Minister James Marape has been forced to defend the deal against a wave of protests and criticism, with some opponents questioning whether Papua New Guinea was signing away its sovereignty. "We have allowed our military to be eroded in the last 48 years," he told parliament on Wednesday evening. "Sovereignty is defined by the robustness and strength of your military." Rich in natural resources and close to key shipping routes, Papua New Guinea increasingly finds itself at the centre of a diplomatic tug-of-war between Washington and Beijing. Former prime minister Peter O'Neill said the agreement painted a target on Papua New Guinea's back. "America is doing it for the protection of their own national interest, we all understand the geopolitics happening within our region," he said. US President Joe Biden had been due to visit Papua New Guinea to sign the deal, a trip that was derailed by a budget tussle in the US Congress. Washington is trying to woo Pacific nations with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support, after similar moves by Beijing. Chinese firms have snapped up mines and ports across the Pacific, and last year inked a secretive security pact with the nearby Solomon Islands that could allow China to deploy troops to the country. Also watch | US Fed pauses rate hike: How will it impact the markets? The United States fears that a Chinese military foothold in the South Pacific could outflank its facilities on Guam, and make the defence of Taiwan more complicated in the event of an invasion by mainland China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US military wins 'unimpeded' access to Papua New Guinea bases

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States from June 21&nbsp;to June 24. The upcoming visit is one of the many visits the Indian PM has made to the US. However, as per reports, it is like none other. During the trip, he will be hosted by American President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden for an intimate visit.</p>

<p>Since assuming office in 2014, Narendra Modi, who is an active globetrotter, has made more than 100 foreign visits. His foreign visits have been aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, attracting investment, and enhancing India's global standing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trips in numbers:</p>

<h2><strong>Countries the Indian PM has visited</strong></h2>

<p>In total, as per the PM India website, Narendra Modi has flown out of the country a total of&nbsp;70 times, visiting&nbsp;124 countries over&nbsp;the nine years he has been the prime minister of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-is-us-indian-pm-expected-to-meet-ceos-of-top-20-american-companies-604707">Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies</a></strong></p>

<p>During his foreign visits, he travelled to 64 nations. These included bilateral trips, as well as the various visits to participate in bi-lateral meetings, multi-lateral meetings and international summits and other meets.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi's maiden foreign visit&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Narendra Modi's first foreign visit as prime minister was to Bhutan. The visit helped emphasise the importance of India's close ties with its neighbours.</p>

<p>As per NarendraModi.in, Modi said that Bhutan&nbsp;was&nbsp;a "natural choice"&nbsp;as his first foreign destination due to the "unique and special relationship"&nbsp;the two countries share.</p>

<p>During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan, the two nations reiterated their commitment to achieving hydropower cooperation. Other key highlights included the inauguration of Bhutan's Supreme Court and the foundation stone laying for the 600MW Kholongchu hydroelectric project. The visit highlighted the importance of business-to-business ties and recognized Bhutan's unique focus on "Gross National Happiness" influenced by its neighbour, India.</p>

<h2><strong>Expenses incurred during Narendra Modi's foreign visits</strong></h2>

<p>As disclosed on the website pmindia.gov.in, the foreign visits incurred significant expenses.</p>

<p>These five foreign visits&nbsp;recorded the highest&nbsp;expense&nbsp;(Between 15 June, 2014 and 15 November, 2019): &nbsp;</p>

<p>1. USA (21 September – 28 September, 2019): Rs 23,27,09,000<br />
2. Brazil (13 July – 17 July, 2014): Rs 20,35,48,000<br />
3. France, Germany &amp; Canada (9 April – 17 April, 2015): Rs 31,25,78,000<br />
4. Myanmar, Australia &amp; Fiji (11 Nov – 20 Nov, 2014): Rs 22,58,65,000<br />
5. Ireland and USA (23 Sept – 29 Sept, 2015): Rs 18,46,95,000</p>

<p>The total expense incurred between May 2014 and November 2019 stands at INR 3,59,04,52,763 &nbsp;or around 43 million dollars ($43,696,215).</p>

<h2><strong>Narendra Modi in US</strong></h2>

<p>To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India.</p>

<p>However, in spite of the frequent visits, the upcoming visit from June 21&nbsp;to June 24&nbsp;holds special importance.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-is-us-indian-pm-expected-to-meet-ceos-of-top-20-american-companies-604707">Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies</a></strong></p>

<p>The uniqueness of this visit lies in its classification as a state visit. While Modi has made multiple trips to the US in the past, none of them were officially recognised as state visits until this occasion.</p>

<p>As per diplomatic protocol, a state visit is the highest-ranked visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is expected that the reverberations of this high-level visit will be seen in the grandiose with which the Indian prime minister will be received along with the diplomatic line-up during the trip.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi in US: Previous visits to America</strong></h2>

<p>In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, in 2016, he made a working lunch visit, and in 2017, Modi's trip to the US was officially designated as an official working visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. During the Houston, Texas visit, he participated in a significant rally that garnered attention both in India and the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During this visit, Modi had a tightly packed schedule that encompassed attending the Quad summit, delivering a speech at the 76th United Nations General Assembly, and engaging in a bilateral meeting with the US president.</p>

<p>As per the Institute of New Europe, Indian PM Narendra Modi "has made 109 foreign trips to 60 countries. Most often, he visited the United States (6 times), as well as China, France, and Russia (5 times)."</p>

<p><img src="https://ine.org.pl/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Modi-ENG-1024x576.png" /></p>

<p><sup><em><strong>Image courtesy: The Institute of New Europe</strong></em></sup></p>

<p>Times of India reports that PM Modi's international engagements reached their peak in 2015, with a remarkable record of visiting 28 countries throughout the year. This period coincided with his first full year in office, following his inauguration in May 2014.</p>

<p>In 2018, PM Modi continued his active diplomatic outreach, undertaking more than 20 foreign visits. However, during the election year of 2019, the number of visits decreased to 14. The Covid pandemic also had a significant impact on the prime minister's foreign travels, leading to a significant reduction in the number of visits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States from June 21 to June 24. The upcoming visit is one of the many visits the Indian PM has made to the US.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States from June 21 to June 24. The upcoming visit is one of the many visits the Indian PM has made to the US. However, as per reports, it is like none other. During the trip, he will be hosted by American President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden for an intimate visit. Since assuming office in 2014, Narendra Modi, who is an active globetrotter, has made more than 100 foreign visits. His foreign visits have been aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, attracting investment, and enhancing India's global standing. Here are Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trips in numbers: Countries the Indian PM has visited In total, as per the PM India website, Narendra Modi has flown out of the country a total of 70 times, visiting 124 countries over the nine years he has been the prime minister of India. Also read | Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies During his foreign visits, he travelled to 64 nations. These included bilateral trips, as well as the various visits to participate in bi-lateral meetings, multi-lateral meetings and international summits and other meets. Modi's maiden foreign visit Narendra Modi's first foreign visit as prime minister was to Bhutan. The visit helped emphasise the importance of India's close ties with its neighbours. As per NarendraModi.in, Modi said that Bhutan was a "natural choice" as his first foreign destination due to the "unique and special relationship" the two countries share. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan, the two nations reiterated their commitment to achieving hydropower cooperation. Other key highlights included the inauguration of Bhutan's Supreme Court and the foundation stone laying for the 600MW Kholongchu hydroelectric project. The visit highlighted the importance of business-to-business ties and recognized Bhutan's unique focus on "Gross National Happiness" influenced by its neighbour, India. Expenses incurred during Narendra Modi's foreign visits As disclosed on the website pmindia.gov.in, the foreign visits incurred significant expenses. These five foreign visits recorded the highest expense (Between 15 June, 2014 and 15 November, 2019): 1. USA (21 September – 28 September, 2019): Rs 23,27,09,000 2. Brazil (13 July – 17 July, 2014): Rs 20,35,48,000 3. France, Germany & Canada (9 April – 17 April, 2015): Rs 31,25,78,000 4. Myanmar, Australia & Fiji (11 Nov – 20 Nov, 2014): Rs 22,58,65,000 5. Ireland and USA (23 Sept – 29 Sept, 2015): Rs 18,46,95,000 The total expense incurred between May 2014 and November 2019 stands at INR 3,59,04,52,763 or around 43 million dollars ($43,696,215). Narendra Modi in US To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India. However, in spite of the frequent visits, the upcoming visit from June 21 to June 24 holds special importance. Also read | Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies The uniqueness of this visit lies in its classification as a state visit. While Modi has made multiple trips to the US in the past, none of them were officially recognised as state visits until this occasion. As per diplomatic protocol, a state visit is the highest-ranked visit. It is expected that the reverberations of this high-level visit will be seen in the grandiose with which the Indian prime minister will be received along with the diplomatic line-up during the trip. Modi in US: Previous visits to America In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit. Subsequently, in 2016, he made a working lunch visit, and in 2017, Modi's trip to the US was officially designated as an official working visit. Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. During the Houston, Texas visit, he participated in a significant rally that garnered attention both in India and the United States. On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office. During this visit, Modi had a tightly packed schedule that encompassed attending the Quad summit, delivering a speech at the 76th United Nations General Assembly, and engaging in a bilateral meeting with the US president. As per the Institute of New Europe, Indian PM Narendra Modi "has made 109 foreign trips to 60 countries. Most often, he visited the United States (6 times), as well as China, France, and Russia (5 times)." Image courtesy: The Institute of New Europe Times of India reports that PM Modi's international engagements reached their peak in 2015, with a remarkable record of visiting 28 countries throughout the year. This period coincided with his first full year in office, following his inauguration in May 2014. In 2018, PM Modi continued his active diplomatic outreach, undertaking more than 20 foreign visits. However, during the election year of 2019, the number of visits decreased to 14. The Covid pandemic also had a significant impact on the prime minister's foreign travels, leading to a significant reduction in the number of visits. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: 9 years, over a 100 trips. A look at Indian PM Narendra Modi's foreign tours in numbers

<p>Two lawyers defending the former United States president Donald Trump over federal charges of alleged mishandling of classified documents, on Friday, quit the case.</p>

<p>On the other hand, in a shocking development, Trump's former aide was also charged a day after the former US president's indictment.</p>

<p>Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump said that his former personal aide, navy veteran, Walt Nauta, was charged in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nauta, after working in the White House, went on to work at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. It isn't yet clear as to what charges are being faced by him.</p>

<p>As per the Reuters reports, Nauta's lawyer, Stanley Woodward, refused to comment.</p>

<p>Trump on the Truth Social platform wrote, "Nauta served proudly with me in the White House, retired as Senior Chief, and then transitioned into private life as a personal aide."</p>

<p>Earlier, Trump shared a post saying that he would be represented in the case by white-collar defence lawyer Todd Blanche, who is representing him in a separate criminal case in Manhattan.</p>

<p>Trump made that announcement after his lawyers John Rowley and Jim Trusty left the case for reasons that were not immediately clear.</p>

<p>"This morning we tendered our resignations as counsel to President Trump," the two lawyers said in a statement. "It has been an honour to have spent the last year defending him, and we know he will be vindicated."</p>

<p>Donald Trump faces seven criminal counts related to his treatment of sensitive government materials he took with him when he left the White House in January 2021, Reuters cited a source familiar with the matter as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump appoints Federal Judge</strong></h2>

<p>As per CNN reports, Donald Trump has appointed Federal District Judge Aileen Cannon to represent him in the new federal criminal case running against him in Miami.</p>

<p>Trump on Thursday, took to his social media platform and wrote, "I AM AN INNOCENT MAN!", after announcing he had been indicted.</p>

<p>Trump is also planning to appoint another Florida-based attorney to his legal team after his indictment over federal charges of illegally retaining classified documents, CNN said, citing&nbsp;sources familiar with the matter.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump's Republican rivals accuse Justice Department of&nbsp;political bias</strong></h2>

<p>Trump's main rivals for the 2024 Presidential nomination released a statement condemning the Department of Justice for indicting the former US president, saying that this move would upset his core supporters.</p>

<p>Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and US&nbsp;Senator Tim Scott condemned the Justice Department for political bias.</p>

<p>"The weaponization of federal law enforcement represents a mortal threat to a free society," DeSantis, who is running a distant second behind Trump in the polls, wrote on Twitter. "We have for years witnessed an uneven application of the law depending upon political affiliation."</p>

<p>“Today is indeed a dark day for the United States of America. It is unconscionable for a President to indict the leading candidate opposing him. Joe Biden kept classified documents for decades,” House Speaker Kevin McCarthy tweeted Thursday night.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Two lawyers defending the former United States president Donald Trump over federal charges of alleged mishandling of classified documents, on Friday, quit the case.

Two lawyers defending the former United States president Donald Trump over federal charges of alleged mishandling of classified documents, on Friday, quit the case. On the other hand, in a shocking development, Trump's former aide was also charged a day after the former US president's indictment. Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump said that his former personal aide, navy veteran, Walt Nauta, was charged in the case. Nauta, after working in the White House, went on to work at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. It isn't yet clear as to what charges are being faced by him. As per the Reuters reports, Nauta's lawyer, Stanley Woodward, refused to comment. Trump on the Truth Social platform wrote, "Nauta served proudly with me in the White House, retired as Senior Chief, and then transitioned into private life as a personal aide." Earlier, Trump shared a post saying that he would be represented in the case by white-collar defence lawyer Todd Blanche, who is representing him in a separate criminal case in Manhattan. Trump made that announcement after his lawyers John Rowley and Jim Trusty left the case for reasons that were not immediately clear. "This morning we tendered our resignations as counsel to President Trump," the two lawyers said in a statement. "It has been an honour to have spent the last year defending him, and we know he will be vindicated." Donald Trump faces seven criminal counts related to his treatment of sensitive government materials he took with him when he left the White House in January 2021, Reuters cited a source familiar with the matter as saying. Trump appoints Federal Judge As per CNN reports, Donald Trump has appointed Federal District Judge Aileen Cannon to represent him in the new federal criminal case running against him in Miami. Trump on Thursday, took to his social media platform and wrote, "I AM AN INNOCENT MAN!", after announcing he had been indicted. Trump is also planning to appoint another Florida-based attorney to his legal team after his indictment over federal charges of illegally retaining classified documents, CNN said, citing sources familiar with the matter. Trump's Republican rivals accuse Justice Department of political bias Trump's main rivals for the 2024 Presidential nomination released a statement condemning the Department of Justice for indicting the former US president, saying that this move would upset his core supporters. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and US Senator Tim Scott condemned the Justice Department for political bias. "The weaponization of federal law enforcement represents a mortal threat to a free society," DeSantis, who is running a distant second behind Trump in the polls, wrote on Twitter. "We have for years witnessed an uneven application of the law depending upon political affiliation." “Today is indeed a dark day for the United States of America. It is unconscionable for a President to indict the leading candidate opposing him. Joe Biden kept classified documents for decades,” House Speaker Kevin McCarthy tweeted Thursday night. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Two lawyers quit Donald Trump's defence in documents case, former aide indicted

<p>The Pentagon declined to comment after reports emerged on Thursday (June 8) that China is planning to build a secret surveillance base just off US shores in Cuba.</p>

<p>The Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials familiar with classified intelligence, that the base would allow Chinese authorities to eavesdrop on electronic communications across the southeastern United States. The region includes the US Southern and Central Command headquarters, both in Florida.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report cited unnamed US officials as saying that China will pay Cuba "several billion dollars" to be able to construct the facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If it happens, a base in Cuba would emerge as a massive challenge for the US as it would be just 150 kilometres off the south coast of Florida. It would be the most direct challenge yet to the continental United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>John Kirby, the spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, said in a statement: "I cannot speak to this specific report, but we are well aware of – and have spoken many times too – (about) the People’s Republic of China's efforts to invest in infrastructure around the world that may have military purposes, including in this hemisphere."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We monitor it closely, take steps to counter it, and remain confident that we are able to meet all our security commitments at home, in the region, and around the world," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Strained US-China ties&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This development comes amid strained US-China relations over a range of issues, including America's support for self-ruled Taiwan, which China says it is determined to reunite with the mainland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ties further weakened with the recent unfolding of the spy balloon saga. Earlier this year in February, a suspected Chinese spy balloon was spotted in the US airspace, and later was shot down by fighter jets. The US also shot down "unidentified objects" at two other different locations afterwards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US claimed that it was capable of gathering intelligence and is believed to have transmitted it back to Beijing in near-real time, an allegation denied by Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As&nbsp;quoted by the report, a US Defense Department official on grounds of anonymity said, "We are not going to comment on those specific reports."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On a broader level, we are very aware of the PRC's attempts to invest in infrastructure around the world that may have military purposes, including in the western hemisphere," the official said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will continue to monitor it closely, and remain confident that we are able to meet all our security commitments at home and across the region," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent times, Chinese leader Xi Jinping has pushed a rapid expansion of the country's security presence around the world, aiming to match the broad presence of the US military on all continents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Pentagon declined to comment after reports emerged on Thursday (June 8) that China is planning to build a secret surveillance base just off US shores in Cuba.

The Pentagon declined to comment after reports emerged on Thursday (June 8) that China is planning to build a secret surveillance base just off US shores in Cuba. The Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials familiar with classified intelligence, that the base would allow Chinese authorities to eavesdrop on electronic communications across the southeastern United States. The region includes the US Southern and Central Command headquarters, both in Florida. The report cited unnamed US officials as saying that China will pay Cuba "several billion dollars" to be able to construct the facility. If it happens, a base in Cuba would emerge as a massive challenge for the US as it would be just 150 kilometres off the south coast of Florida. It would be the most direct challenge yet to the continental United States. John Kirby, the spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, said in a statement: "I cannot speak to this specific report, but we are well aware of – and have spoken many times too – (about) the People’s Republic of China's efforts to invest in infrastructure around the world that may have military purposes, including in this hemisphere." "We monitor it closely, take steps to counter it, and remain confident that we are able to meet all our security commitments at home, in the region, and around the world," he said. Strained US-China ties This development comes amid strained US-China relations over a range of issues, including America's support for self-ruled Taiwan, which China says it is determined to reunite with the mainland. The ties further weakened with the recent unfolding of the spy balloon saga. Earlier this year in February, a suspected Chinese spy balloon was spotted in the US airspace, and later was shot down by fighter jets. The US also shot down "unidentified objects" at two other different locations afterwards. The US claimed that it was capable of gathering intelligence and is believed to have transmitted it back to Beijing in near-real time, an allegation denied by Beijing. As quoted by the report, a US Defense Department official on grounds of anonymity said, "We are not going to comment on those specific reports." "On a broader level, we are very aware of the PRC's attempts to invest in infrastructure around the world that may have military purposes, including in the western hemisphere," the official said. "We will continue to monitor it closely, and remain confident that we are able to meet all our security commitments at home and across the region," the official added. In recent times, Chinese leader Xi Jinping has pushed a rapid expansion of the country's security presence around the world, aiming to match the broad presence of the US military on all continents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China to establish 'spy base' in Cuba off southeastern United States: Report

<p>The race to the White House has gotten murkier. Republican candidate Ron DeSantis has elevated his war of words with&nbsp;opponent Donald Trump to the next level with deepfake technology and AI-generated scandalous images. In a video released by the DeSantis War Room, the former US president can be seen hugging and even kissing&nbsp;the nose of his anathema, the former US chief medical adviser Dr Anthony Fauci.</p>

<h2><strong>Did Trump really kiss Fauci?</strong></h2>

<p>No, these images published by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' rapid response team are fake. They are generated using artificial intelligence technology and are as fake as the photos of Trump being arrested that went viral a couple of months back.</p>

<p>You can see them here:</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-generated-images-of-donald-trumps-arrest-go-viral-take-a-look-574490">AI predicts what Donald Trump's arrest would look like. Take a look at the viral images!</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is the DeSantis War Room video all about?</strong></h2>

<p>The video is a criticism of Trump's failure to fire Fauci, who was the United States' top infectious disease specialist at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, back when he was the president.</p>

<p>Fauci's push for Covid restrictions, as per Reuters, worked to turn him into a "boogeyman" for many Conservatives. Among those criticising Fauci's policies was Trump. In October 2020, the politician went as far as calling Dr Fauci a "disaster" that has been around for "500 years".</p>

<p>However, in spite of the often public thrashing, Trump refrained from firing Fauci.</p>

<h2><strong>Is the video completely fake?</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters, the video apparently includes some real footage of the former US president's press conferences and interviews.</p>

<p>However, the fake AI-generated content is shown with impudence at the 25-second mark. Here, around five seconds of the 35-second video display six images of Fauci and Trump. In three of them, the two men can be seen hugging or kissing.</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Donald Trump became a household name by FIRING countless people *on television*<br />
<br />
But when it came to Fauci... <a href="https://t.co/7Lxwf75NQm">pic.twitter.com/7Lxwf75NQm</a></p>
— DeSantis War Room 🐊 (@DeSantisWarRoom) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeSantisWarRoom/status/1665799058303188992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>How do we know these images are AI-generated?</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to Reuters, Matthew Stamm, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Drexel University, said that as per an analysis of traces left behind by synthetic image generators, the three images of Trump and Fauci kissing and hugging are likely AI-generated.</p>

<p>"Our results consistently output a decision that these images are fake," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ai-creates-images-of-world-leaders-as-toddlers-600932" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ai-creates-images-of-world-leaders-as-toddlers-600932&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjilrOXmbX_AhVfumMGHQRzDssQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2NtfYepZ4k1yjvVYDi8VCy" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ai-creates-images-of-world-leaders-as-toddlers-600932" target="_blank">In&nbsp;Pics&nbsp;|&nbsp;AI&nbsp;creates&nbsp;images&nbsp;of world leaders as toddlers</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Did Trump use AI? Is this retaliation?</strong></h2>

<p>It could be retaliation. Talking to Reuters, a person with knowledge of Ron DeSantis' campaign operation claimed that the Trump side had been "continuously posting fake images and false talking points to smear the (Florida) governor."</p>

<p>As per the news agency, Trump, however, has primarily shared "obviously fake" content that anyone can see isn't real. For instance, he shared an image of DeSantis riding a rhinoceros. This, according to Reuters, was a suggestion that Ron DeSantis is a "Republican in Name Only" (RINO).</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="truthsocial-embed" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/110475191660845818/embed" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0" width="1000"></iframe><script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Why is this problematic?</strong></h2>

<p>The video fails to disclose any potential AI use. While generating someone's AI images for slander purposes is immoral in all scenarios, the use of such images in the campaign of leading candidates makes it even more problematic.</p>

<h2><strong>Are other political campaigns using&nbsp;AI-generated content?</strong></h2>

<p>In the ongoing US Presidential Election race, so far the only high-profile political ad generated by artificial intelligence was by the Republican National Committee. The 30-second ad was released in April. It used fake images to suggest that if President Joe Biden is re-elected, a cataclysmic scenario with China invading Taiwan and San Francisco being shut down due to crime can happen. However, the RNC disclosed that the entire thing was generated using AI.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The race to the White House has gotten murkier. Republican candidate Ron DeSantis has elevated his war of words with opponent Donald Trump to the next level with deepfake technology and AI-generated scandalous images.

The race to the White House has gotten murkier. Republican candidate Ron DeSantis has elevated his war of words with opponent Donald Trump to the next level with deepfake technology and AI-generated scandalous images. In a video released by the DeSantis War Room, the former US president can be seen hugging and even kissing the nose of his anathema, the former US chief medical adviser Dr Anthony Fauci. Did Trump really kiss Fauci? No, these images published by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' rapid response team are fake. They are generated using artificial intelligence technology and are as fake as the photos of Trump being arrested that went viral a couple of months back. You can see them here: Also read | AI predicts what Donald Trump's arrest would look like. Take a look at the viral images! What is the DeSantis War Room video all about? The video is a criticism of Trump's failure to fire Fauci, who was the United States' top infectious disease specialist at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, back when he was the president. Fauci's push for Covid restrictions, as per Reuters, worked to turn him into a "boogeyman" for many Conservatives. Among those criticising Fauci's policies was Trump. In October 2020, the politician went as far as calling Dr Fauci a "disaster" that has been around for "500 years". However, in spite of the often public thrashing, Trump refrained from firing Fauci. Is the video completely fake? As per Reuters, the video apparently includes some real footage of the former US president's press conferences and interviews. However, the fake AI-generated content is shown with impudence at the 25-second mark. Here, around five seconds of the 35-second video display six images of Fauci and Trump. In three of them, the two men can be seen hugging or kissing. Watch the video here: Donald Trump became a household name by FIRING countless people *on television* But when it came to Fauci... pic.twitter.com/7Lxwf75NQm — DeSantis War Room 🐊 (@DeSantisWarRoom) June 5, 2023 × How do we know these images are AI-generated? Talking to Reuters, Matthew Stamm, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Drexel University, said that as per an analysis of traces left behind by synthetic image generators, the three images of Trump and Fauci kissing and hugging are likely AI-generated. "Our results consistently output a decision that these images are fake," he added. Also read | In Pics | AI creates images of world leaders as toddlers Did Trump use AI? Is this retaliation? It could be retaliation. Talking to Reuters, a person with knowledge of Ron DeSantis' campaign operation claimed that the Trump side had been "continuously posting fake images and false talking points to smear the (Florida) governor." As per the news agency, Trump, however, has primarily shared "obviously fake" content that anyone can see isn't real. For instance, he shared an image of DeSantis riding a rhinoceros. This, according to Reuters, was a suggestion that Ron DeSantis is a "Republican in Name Only" (RINO). × Why is this problematic? The video fails to disclose any potential AI use. While generating someone's AI images for slander purposes is immoral in all scenarios, the use of such images in the campaign of leading candidates makes it even more problematic. Are other political campaigns using AI-generated content? In the ongoing US Presidential Election race, so far the only high-profile political ad generated by artificial intelligence was by the Republican National Committee. The 30-second ad was released in April. It used fake images to suggest that if President Joe Biden is re-elected, a cataclysmic scenario with China invading Taiwan and San Francisco being shut down due to crime can happen. However, the RNC disclosed that the entire thing was generated using AI. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did Trump kiss Fauci? Ron DeSantis ups the ante with AI-generated fake images of two men

<p>The scientists working at US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Thursday announced the arrival of an expected El Nino climate phenomenon, increasing fears of extreme weather and temperature records.<br />
<br />
This weather pattern which is marked by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean near the equator had last occurred in 2018-19. This phenomenon occurs every two-seven years on average.<br />
<br />
"Depending on its strength, El Nino can cause a range of impacts, such as increasing the risk of heavy rainfall and droughts in certain locations around the world," stated NOAA climate scientist Michelle L'Heureux.<br />
<br />
"Climate change can exacerbate or mitigate certain impacts related to El Nino. For example, El Nino could lead to new records for temperatures, particularly in areas that already experience above-average temperatures during El Nino," the scientist added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/australia-humpback-whale-trapped-in-fishing-net-rescued-ahead-of-world-ocean-day-602047">Australia: Humpback whale trapped in fishing net rescued ahead of World Ocean Day</a></p>

<h2><strong>Australia warns of El Nino</strong></h2>

<p>This week, Australia issued a warning that El Nino is likely to lead people to warmer and drier days in a country which is vulnerable to fierce bushfires.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Japan held a developing El Nino partly responsible for its warmest spring on record. The influence of the phenomenon on the United States is weak during summer months but is more strong starting from late fall through spring, said NOAA, in its statement.<br />
<br />
By the months of winter, an 84 per cent chance of the climate phenomenon developing "greater than moderate" has been estimated, and a 56 per cent chance is there of a strong El Nino.<br />
<br />
This is likely to cause wetter than average conditions in the country's few parts, from southern California to the Gulf Coast. It is also expected to lead drier than average conditions in the Ohio Valley and Pacific Northwest.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'Ukraine dam breach an environmental bomb' | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-dam-breach-an-environmental-bomb-wion-climate-tracker-602113/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Chances of warmer-than-average temperatures in the country's northern parts will also increase&nbsp;due to the El Nino effect. NOAA had already factored the development of El Nino conditions in their hurricane predictions last month.<br />
<br />
The climate phenomenon has a suppressive effect on hurricane activity going on in the Atlantic. However, it generally enhances hurricane activity in the central and eastern Pacific.</p>

<h2><strong>What leads to&nbsp;El Nino?</strong></h2>

<p>El Nino, which means "Little Boy" in the Spanish language, is the El Nino–Southern Oscillation's warm phase. El Nino is a natural climate phenomenon born&nbsp;out of waters in the eastern Pacific which are unusually warm.<br />
<br />
It is formed when the trade winds, which were moving east-to-west parallelly to the equatorial Pacific, reverse or slow down due to a change in air pressure. However,&nbsp;scientists are&nbsp;not very confident about what kicks off the cycle.</p>

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<section>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The scientists working at US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Thursday announced the arrival of an expected El Nino climate phenomenon, increasing fears of extreme weather and temperature records.

The scientists working at US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Thursday announced the arrival of an expected El Nino climate phenomenon, increasing fears of extreme weather and temperature records. This weather pattern which is marked by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean near the equator had last occurred in 2018-19. This phenomenon occurs every two-seven years on average. "Depending on its strength, El Nino can cause a range of impacts, such as increasing the risk of heavy rainfall and droughts in certain locations around the world," stated NOAA climate scientist Michelle L'Heureux. "Climate change can exacerbate or mitigate certain impacts related to El Nino. For example, El Nino could lead to new records for temperatures, particularly in areas that already experience above-average temperatures during El Nino," the scientist added. ALSO READ | Australia: Humpback whale trapped in fishing net rescued ahead of World Ocean Day Australia warns of El Nino This week, Australia issued a warning that El Nino is likely to lead people to warmer and drier days in a country which is vulnerable to fierce bushfires. Meanwhile, Japan held a developing El Nino partly responsible for its warmest spring on record. The influence of the phenomenon on the United States is weak during summer months but is more strong starting from late fall through spring, said NOAA, in its statement. By the months of winter, an 84 per cent chance of the climate phenomenon developing "greater than moderate" has been estimated, and a 56 per cent chance is there of a strong El Nino. This is likely to cause wetter than average conditions in the country's few parts, from southern California to the Gulf Coast. It is also expected to lead drier than average conditions in the Ohio Valley and Pacific Northwest. WATCH | 'Ukraine dam breach an environmental bomb' | WION Climate Tracker Chances of warmer-than-average temperatures in the country's northern parts will also increase due to the El Nino effect. NOAA had already factored the development of El Nino conditions in their hurricane predictions last month. The climate phenomenon has a suppressive effect on hurricane activity going on in the Atlantic. However, it generally enhances hurricane activity in the central and eastern Pacific. What leads to El Nino? El Nino, which means "Little Boy" in the Spanish language, is the El Nino–Southern Oscillation's warm phase. El Nino is a natural climate phenomenon born out of waters in the eastern Pacific which are unusually warm. It is formed when the trade winds, which were moving east-to-west parallelly to the equatorial Pacific, reverse or slow down due to a change in air pressure. However, scientists are not very confident about what kicks off the cycle. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US announces arrival of El Nino, triggering fear of extreme weather conditions

US Presidential Elections 2024: List of top Republican contenders in the race

<p>In a bizarre incident, a group of tourists carried a newborn elk calf in their car in Yellowstone National Park, forcing the authorities to appeal to visitors to protect wildlife amid a spate of similar events taking place which have either endangered or killed animals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, a plea was issued by the park asking the tourists to drive carefully and abide by the safety regulations after several reports emerged of fatal collisions between animals and vehicles.</p>

<p>“In recent days, some actions by visitors have led to the endangerment of people and wildlife and resulted in the death of wildlife,” stated the park&nbsp;in its press release.</p>

<p>“The park calls on visitors to protect wildlife by understanding how their actions can negatively impact wildlife," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/experts-warn-worst-yet-to-come-days-after-cheetahs-die-in-indias-kuno-national-park-596689">Three cheetah cubs dead in India’s Kuno National Park, expert warns of higher mortality</a></p>

<h2><strong>Bizzare events that endangered animals&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A newborn elk calf was put in the car by visitors on Memorial Day weekend and brought to the West Yellowstone Police Department. Later, the calf ran into the forest. Its condition is not known, said the park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 28, two adult black bears, who were dark chocolate brown in colour, lost their lives after they were struck in separate vehicle collisions in the park, stated Yellowstone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, an adult male black bear was hit by a vehicle near milepost 14 on US Highway 191 in Yellowstone's northwestern section.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another adult male black bear was hit and killed by a vehicle at milepost 29 on US Highway 191 later in the evening, said the park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One bison and one elk were also separately hit in the last few days, Yellowstone said.</p>

<p>"Last year, two visitors were gored by bison after getting too close to the animals," the park informed.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Afforestation in the Chinese capital attracts over 500 bird species</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afforestation-in-the-chinese-capital-attracts-over-500-bird-species-595620/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Speed enforcement</strong></h2>

<p>The park stated they would be “significantly increasing speed enforcement” on US Highway 191 where the speed limit is 55 mph. On most of the park roads, the limit has been kept at 45 mph or less, Yellowstone stated. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The park further appealed to drivers to carefully drive at night, stating that light is absorbed by the animal fur, &nbsp;which makes them harder to detect.</p>

<p>“Approaching wild animals can drastically affect their well-being and, in some cases, their survival. When an animal is near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, on a road, or in a developed area, leave it alone and give it space,” stated the park, in the release.</p>

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In a bizarre incident, a group of tourists carried a newborn elk calf in their car in Yellowstone National Park, forcing the authorities to appeal to visitors to protect wildlife amid a spate of similar events taking place which have either endangered or killed animals.

In a bizarre incident, a group of tourists carried a newborn elk calf in their car in Yellowstone National Park, forcing the authorities to appeal to visitors to protect wildlife amid a spate of similar events taking place which have either endangered or killed animals. Last week, a plea was issued by the park asking the tourists to drive carefully and abide by the safety regulations after several reports emerged of fatal collisions between animals and vehicles. “In recent days, some actions by visitors have led to the endangerment of people and wildlife and resulted in the death of wildlife,” stated the park in its press release. “The park calls on visitors to protect wildlife by understanding how their actions can negatively impact wildlife," it added. ALSO READ | Three cheetah cubs dead in India’s Kuno National Park, expert warns of higher mortality Bizzare events that endangered animals A newborn elk calf was put in the car by visitors on Memorial Day weekend and brought to the West Yellowstone Police Department. Later, the calf ran into the forest. Its condition is not known, said the park. On May 28, two adult black bears, who were dark chocolate brown in colour, lost their lives after they were struck in separate vehicle collisions in the park, stated Yellowstone. Additionally, an adult male black bear was hit by a vehicle near milepost 14 on US Highway 191 in Yellowstone's northwestern section. Another adult male black bear was hit and killed by a vehicle at milepost 29 on US Highway 191 later in the evening, said the park. One bison and one elk were also separately hit in the last few days, Yellowstone said. "Last year, two visitors were gored by bison after getting too close to the animals," the park informed. WATCH | Afforestation in the Chinese capital attracts over 500 bird species Speed enforcement The park stated they would be “significantly increasing speed enforcement” on US Highway 191 where the speed limit is 55 mph. On most of the park roads, the limit has been kept at 45 mph or less, Yellowstone stated. The park further appealed to drivers to carefully drive at night, stating that light is absorbed by the animal fur, which makes them harder to detect. “Approaching wild animals can drastically affect their well-being and, in some cases, their survival. When an animal is near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, on a road, or in a developed area, leave it alone and give it space,” stated the park, in the release. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Tourists put baby elk in their car in Yellowstone National Park

<p>California Governor Gavin Newsom, on Monday, threatened his Florida counterpart Ron DeSantis&nbsp;with kidnapping charges after California officials released a statement saying that South American migrants were sent to Sacramento by the state of Florida as part of a political stunt.</p>

<p>Newsom took to Twitter and called the Florida governor and Republican presidential hopeful a “small, pathetic man”. He also cited state kidnapping laws in his tweet.</p>

<p>“This isn’t Martha’s Vineyard. Kidnapping charges?” he said in the tweet, exemplifying last year's DeSantis’ action to send a group of Venezuelan migrants to the affluent liberal vacation spot in Massachusetts.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RonDeSantis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonDeSantis</a> you small, pathetic man.<br />
<br />
This isn't Martha's Vineyard.<br />
<br />
Kidnapping charges?<br />
<br />
Read the following. <a href="https://t.co/kvuxe8Fb6F">https://t.co/kvuxe8Fb6F</a> <a href="https://t.co/KyE1lJiIYo">pic.twitter.com/KyE1lJiIYo</a></p>
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1665769565261840387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Newsom said that sixteen migrants from Venezuela and Colombia were taken to New Mexico from Texas and flown on a chartered plane to Sacramento, where they were dropped off at a church on Friday.</p>

<p>Days later on Monday, another plane with&nbsp;20 migrants aboard landed in Sacramento. The groups were transported by the same contractor and were carrying documents pointing to the fact that their travel involved the state of Florida, LA Times cited California Department of Justice officials as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-hopeful-ron-desantis-equates-woke-to-form-of-cultural-marxism-600741">US Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis equates 'woke' to 'form of cultural Marxism'</a></p>

<p>Newsom said that his administration is probing 'the circumstances around' who paid for the plane trips, or if the migrants were misled or the laws were violated, including kidnapping.</p>

<p>California Attorney General Rob Bonta said his office was "evaluating potential criminal or civil action against those who transported or arranged for the transport of these vulnerable immigrants".</p>

<p>"State-sanctioned kidnapping is not a public policy choice, it is immoral and disgusting," he said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>California Governor Newsom refuses to back reparations proposal for Black residents</strong></h2>

<p>Days after a California panel voted to approve millions in reparations for Black residents in the state, Gavin Newsom refused to lend his support to the initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Newsom said the reparations, meant to take responsibility for the country and state's apathy towards its Black residents in the past, was "much more than cash payments". &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments. Many of the recommendations put forward by the Task Force are critical action items we’ve already been hard at work addressing," Newson told Fox News Digital.</p>

<p>"Breaking down barriers to vote, bolstering resources to address hate, enacting sweeping law enforcement and justice reforms to build trust and safety, strengthening economic mobility - all while investing billions to root out disparities and improve equity in housing, education, healthcare, and well beyond. This work must continue," he added.</p>

<p>The Democrat leader, however, applauded the work of the task force and said his administration will continue the process of healing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Reparations Task Force’s independent findings and recommendations are a milestone in our bipartisan effort to advance justice and promote healing. This has been an important process, and we should continue to work as a nation to reconcile our original sin of slavery and understand how that history has shaped our country."</p>

<h2><strong>Nikki Haley criticises DeSantis over Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Nikki Haley, a Republican candidate in the race for the US White House, has criticised her two contenders, former president Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for their stance on Ukraine's conflict with Russia.</p>

<p>Haley, who previously served as the UN ambassador under Trump, took issue with their refusal to express a clear position on whether they want Ukraine to succeed in its war against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a recent statement, Trump stated that he wanted the war to end and that he would assist in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.</p>

<p>DeSantis too has expressed his support for a settlement to the war and said he hoped for an end to the fighting by the time he becomes the president in January 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haley, during a CNN town hall event in Iowa, criticised DeSantis for referring to the conflict as a "territorial dispute",&nbsp;a statement he has since retracted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For them to sit there and say that this is a territorial dispute - that's just not the case, or to say that we should stay neutral," she told voters.</p>

<p>She argued that it is in the best interest of national security for Ukraine to win the conflict. The issue of Ukraine tends to divide Republicans due to varying positions on isolationism among primary voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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California Governor Gavin Newsom, on Monday, threatened his Florida counterpart Ron DeSantis with kidnapping charges after California officials released a statement saying that South American migrants were sent to Sacramento by the state of Florida as part of a political stunt.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, on Monday, threatened his Florida counterpart Ron DeSantis with kidnapping charges after California officials released a statement saying that South American migrants were sent to Sacramento by the state of Florida as part of a political stunt. Newsom took to Twitter and called the Florida governor and Republican presidential hopeful a “small, pathetic man”. He also cited state kidnapping laws in his tweet. “This isn’t Martha’s Vineyard. Kidnapping charges?” he said in the tweet, exemplifying last year's DeSantis’ action to send a group of Venezuelan migrants to the affluent liberal vacation spot in Massachusetts. .@RonDeSantis you small, pathetic man. This isn't Martha's Vineyard. Kidnapping charges? Read the following. https://t.co/kvuxe8Fb6F pic.twitter.com/KyE1lJiIYo — Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 5, 2023 × Newsom said that sixteen migrants from Venezuela and Colombia were taken to New Mexico from Texas and flown on a chartered plane to Sacramento, where they were dropped off at a church on Friday. Days later on Monday, another plane with 20 migrants aboard landed in Sacramento. The groups were transported by the same contractor and were carrying documents pointing to the fact that their travel involved the state of Florida, LA Times cited California Department of Justice officials as saying. Also read: US Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis equates 'woke' to 'form of cultural Marxism' Newsom said that his administration is probing 'the circumstances around' who paid for the plane trips, or if the migrants were misled or the laws were violated, including kidnapping. California Attorney General Rob Bonta said his office was "evaluating potential criminal or civil action against those who transported or arranged for the transport of these vulnerable immigrants". "State-sanctioned kidnapping is not a public policy choice, it is immoral and disgusting," he said in a statement. California Governor Newsom refuses to back reparations proposal for Black residents Days after a California panel voted to approve millions in reparations for Black residents in the state, Gavin Newsom refused to lend his support to the initiative. Newsom said the reparations, meant to take responsibility for the country and state's apathy towards its Black residents in the past, was "much more than cash payments". "Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments. Many of the recommendations put forward by the Task Force are critical action items we’ve already been hard at work addressing," Newson told Fox News Digital. "Breaking down barriers to vote, bolstering resources to address hate, enacting sweeping law enforcement and justice reforms to build trust and safety, strengthening economic mobility - all while investing billions to root out disparities and improve equity in housing, education, healthcare, and well beyond. This work must continue," he added. The Democrat leader, however, applauded the work of the task force and said his administration will continue the process of healing. "The Reparations Task Force’s independent findings and recommendations are a milestone in our bipartisan effort to advance justice and promote healing. This has been an important process, and we should continue to work as a nation to reconcile our original sin of slavery and understand how that history has shaped our country." Nikki Haley criticises DeSantis over Ukraine war Nikki Haley, a Republican candidate in the race for the US White House, has criticised her two contenders, former president Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for their stance on Ukraine's conflict with Russia. Haley, who previously served as the UN ambassador under Trump, took issue with their refusal to express a clear position on whether they want Ukraine to succeed in its war against Russia. In a recent statement, Trump stated that he wanted the war to end and that he would assist in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. DeSantis too has expressed his support for a settlement to the war and said he hoped for an end to the fighting by the time he becomes the president in January 2025. Haley, during a CNN town hall event in Iowa, criticised DeSantis for referring to the conflict as a "territorial dispute", a statement he has since retracted. "For them to sit there and say that this is a territorial dispute - that's just not the case, or to say that we should stay neutral," she told voters. She argued that it is in the best interest of national security for Ukraine to win the conflict. The issue of Ukraine tends to divide Republicans due to varying positions on isolationism among primary voters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Newsom threatens DeSantis with kidnapping charges over migrant flights

India's import of cheap Russian oil reached a new high in may, surpassing the combined purchases from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab emirates, and the United States. According to data from energy cargo tracker Vortexa, India took 1.96 million barrels per day from Russia in may, 15% more than the previous high in April.

India's imports of Russian oil hits new high | World Business Watch

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<p>The United States military said on Saturday (June 3) that a Chinese Navy ship manoeuvred in an "unsafe manner" near an American destroyer transiting the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;The military said the USS Chung-Hoon, a destroyer; and Canada's HSMC Montreal, a frigate, were conducting a "routine" transit of the strait on Saturday when the Chinese ship cut in front of the American one, coming within 150 yards .&nbsp;</p>

<p>The American destroyer maintained course and slowed to 10 (knots) to avoid a collision, the military&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-aircraft-carrier-sailed-through-taiwan-strait-597072">Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, two other ships sail through Taiwan Strait: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The ship then crossed Chung-Hoon's bow a second-time starboard to port at 2,000 yards and remained off Chung-Hoon's port bow coming within 150 yards at the closest point, the US military also said, adding that "it flies, sails, and operates safely and responsibly anywhere international law allows."</p>

<h2><strong>China makes no mention of close encounter</strong></h2>

<p>The Chinese military did not make any mention of Saturday's encounter. However, Colonel Shi Yi, the spokesperson of China's Eastern Theatre Command said, "The relevant countries are intentionally creating trouble in the Taiwan Strait, deliberately stirring up risks, and maliciously undermining regional peace and stability."</p>

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<p>While US warships transit the Taiwan Strait around once a month, it is unusual for them to do so with those of other US allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China claims Taiwan as its territory — vowing to take it one day, by force if necessary — and has in recent years ramped up military and political pressure on the island.</p>

<h2><strong>China warns on establishing NATO-like alliances in Asia Pacific</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile on Sunday, Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu warned against establishing NATO-like military alliances in the Asia-Pacific. "Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of kidnapping regional countries and exaggerating conflicts and confrontations,"</p>

<p>Addressing a security conference in Singapore which was attended by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, Shangfu said, "Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of kidnapping regional countries and exaggerating conflicts and confrontations."</p>

<p>These attempts would plunge the Asia Pacific into a whirlpool of disputes and conflicts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The United States military said on Saturday (June 3) that a Chinese Navy ship manoeuvred in an "unsafe manner" near an American destroyer transiting the Taiwan Strait.

The United States military said on Saturday (June 3) that a Chinese Navy ship manoeuvred in an "unsafe manner" near an American destroyer transiting the Taiwan Strait. The military said the USS Chung-Hoon, a destroyer; and Canada's HSMC Montreal, a frigate, were conducting a "routine" transit of the strait on Saturday when the Chinese ship cut in front of the American one, coming within 150 yards . The American destroyer maintained course and slowed to 10 (knots) to avoid a collision, the military said. ALSO READ | Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, two other ships sail through Taiwan Strait: Report The ship then crossed Chung-Hoon's bow a second-time starboard to port at 2,000 yards and remained off Chung-Hoon's port bow coming within 150 yards at the closest point, the US military also said, adding that "it flies, sails, and operates safely and responsibly anywhere international law allows." China makes no mention of close encounter The Chinese military did not make any mention of Saturday's encounter. However, Colonel Shi Yi, the spokesperson of China's Eastern Theatre Command said, "The relevant countries are intentionally creating trouble in the Taiwan Strait, deliberately stirring up risks, and maliciously undermining regional peace and stability." × While US warships transit the Taiwan Strait around once a month, it is unusual for them to do so with those of other US allies. China claims Taiwan as its territory — vowing to take it one day, by force if necessary — and has in recent years ramped up military and political pressure on the island. China warns on establishing NATO-like alliances in Asia Pacific Meanwhile on Sunday, Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu warned against establishing NATO-like military alliances in the Asia-Pacific. "Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of kidnapping regional countries and exaggerating conflicts and confrontations," Addressing a security conference in Singapore which was attended by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, Shangfu said, "Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of kidnapping regional countries and exaggerating conflicts and confrontations." These attempts would plunge the Asia Pacific into a whirlpool of disputes and conflicts. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | US says Chinese Navy ship came 150 yards within American destroyer transiting Taiwan Strait

<p>The Biden administration is poised to sign a deal that would allow General Electric Co to produce jet engines powering Indian military aircraft in India, according to three people briefed on the decision.</p>

<p>A deal finalising the joint production of the engines is expected to be inked and announced by the time United States President Joe Biden hosts Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an official state visit on June 22, the people said on condition of anonymity because the decision has not been made public.</p>

<p>The White House, which said in January that it had received the application to jointly produce the engines in India, declined to comment. GE did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Washington is working to deepen ties with the world's largest democracy India and sees deeper military-to-military and technology ties with the South Asian country as a key counterweight to China's dominance in the region.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-indian-air-force-has-grounded-its-entire-fleet-of-mig-21-fighter-jets-594658">Why has Indian Air Force grounded its entire fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets?</a></p>

<p>India, the world's largest arm importer, depends on Russia for nearly half its military supplies, and has bought fighter jets, tanks, nuclear submarines and an aircraft carrier over the decades.</p>

<p>New Delhi has frustrated Washington by participating in military exercises with Russia and increasing purchases of the country's crude oil, a source of funding for Moscow's war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>India's state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) had previously said it planned to use the GE-manufactured 414 engine on a second generation of light-combat aircraft and that it was in talks over domestic production of those engines.</p>

<p>The deal is not finalised and also requires notification to the US Congress, according to two of the people briefed on the arrangement.</p>

<p>Washington maintains strict controls over what domestic military technology can be shared or sold to other countries.</p>

<p>A broader joint partnership between the United States and India announced earlier this year is designed to encourage companies from both countries to collaborate, especially on military equipment and cutting-edge technology.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will India buy F-16 jets from U.S? | What is the real story behind NATO Plus?</strong></p>

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<p>While GE has offered some transfer of technology to HAL, which will produce the engines as a licensed manufacturer, India is pushing for more technology to be shared, according to one of the people with knowledge of the conversations.</p>

<p>India is keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines. Though it can manufacture fighter jets domestically, it lacks the ability to produce engines to power them.</p>

<p>HAL is using a lighter GE engine for the 83 light combat aircraft it is manufacturing for the Indian Air Force. However, India intends to produce more than 350 fighter jets for its air force and navy over the next two decades, which could be powered by the GE 414.</p>

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The Biden administration is poised to sign a deal that would allow General Electric Co to produce jet engines powering Indian military aircraft in India, according to three people briefed on the decision.

The Biden administration is poised to sign a deal that would allow General Electric Co to produce jet engines powering Indian military aircraft in India, according to three people briefed on the decision. A deal finalising the joint production of the engines is expected to be inked and announced by the time United States President Joe Biden hosts Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an official state visit on June 22, the people said on condition of anonymity because the decision has not been made public. The White House, which said in January that it had received the application to jointly produce the engines in India, declined to comment. GE did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Washington is working to deepen ties with the world's largest democracy India and sees deeper military-to-military and technology ties with the South Asian country as a key counterweight to China's dominance in the region. ALSO READ | Why has Indian Air Force grounded its entire fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets? India, the world's largest arm importer, depends on Russia for nearly half its military supplies, and has bought fighter jets, tanks, nuclear submarines and an aircraft carrier over the decades. New Delhi has frustrated Washington by participating in military exercises with Russia and increasing purchases of the country's crude oil, a source of funding for Moscow's war in Ukraine. India's state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) had previously said it planned to use the GE-manufactured 414 engine on a second generation of light-combat aircraft and that it was in talks over domestic production of those engines. The deal is not finalised and also requires notification to the US Congress, according to two of the people briefed on the arrangement. Washington maintains strict controls over what domestic military technology can be shared or sold to other countries. A broader joint partnership between the United States and India announced earlier this year is designed to encourage companies from both countries to collaborate, especially on military equipment and cutting-edge technology. WATCH | Gravitas: Will India buy F-16 jets from U.S? | What is the real story behind NATO Plus? While GE has offered some transfer of technology to HAL, which will produce the engines as a licensed manufacturer, India is pushing for more technology to be shared, according to one of the people with knowledge of the conversations. India is keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines. Though it can manufacture fighter jets domestically, it lacks the ability to produce engines to power them. HAL is using a lighter GE engine for the 83 light combat aircraft it is manufacturing for the Indian Air Force. However, India intends to produce more than 350 fighter jets for its air force and navy over the next two decades, which could be powered by the GE 414. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US poised to ink deal permitting GE to manufacture engines for military jets in India: Report

<p>A hungry black bear broke into the garage of a Connecticut bakery and gobbled up 60 cupcakes before going away, as several scared employees watched helplessly. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The employees at Taste by Spellbound, located in the town of Avon, were busy loading a van with cakes on Wednesday for delivery when the bear showed up.</p>

<p>Around 1,000 and 1,200 black bears live in Connecticut, as per the state environmental agency, with 158 sightings recorded last year in &nbsp;169 towns and cities of the state.</p>

<p>In an Instagram post, bakery owner Miriam Stephens stated that she heard her employee Maureen Williams “screaming bloody murder” and shouting that a bear has entered the garage.</p>

<p>She further shared an image of half-eaten cupcakes and empty trays lying on the pavement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/bear-aware-police-rescue-curious-bear-trapped-inside-car-watch-video-598360">&nbsp;'Bear-aware': Police rescue curious bear trapped inside car. Watch video</a></p>

<h2><strong>Real Story&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Alongside, the owner also wrote a detailed caption explaining the incident.</p>

<p>“Okay. Here’s the real story. We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All of a sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling ‘there’s a bear in the garage!’ She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door. We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could,” Stephens wrote.</p>

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<p>“The cops showed up and our landlord has been working with DEEP. The bear destroyed 60 cupcakes and a bunch of coconut cakes. And that folks, is the bear story. I’m so thankful Maureen was safe and wasn't hurt, as well as the rest of the team. We do not have video or pictures - that was the last thing on our mind,” she further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting on the same, an Instagram user joked, “Glad you guys are ok - let’s hope this bear isn’t a gossip!”.</p>

<p>“Bear necessities,” stated another.</p>

<p>“That is SO scary!! So glad everyone’s ok,” said a third user.</p>

<p>“Holy macaroni!!!!! Definitely pretty scary!!! And now....the bear knows where the goods are!!!!!!” wrote a fourth user.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russian 'spy whale' spotted near Sweden</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Video of the bizarre incident</strong></h2>

<p>Recently a video of the bizarre incident was posted by the owner on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The video you’ve all been waiting for. Enjoy! A few facts: No bears will be harmed. They have not hurt anyone and will be totally ok. No need to worry! This video was 10 minutes that we cut to 30 seconds. So yes, all the facts we put out there are true. Why was our door up? Because we were about to make our shop deliveries. We’re not irresponsible. They are more scared of us than we are of them. We all have had a good laugh about it at this point and think the bears are cute,” she wrote while sharing the video.</p>

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<p>Various reactions of people poured in on the video. “I mean- he’s got good taste!!” said a Facebook user.</p>

<p>“I laughed everything funnier sped up!” added another. “Kinda what I look like when I get cupcakes from you guys. I'm glad everyone is safe!!” stated a third. “A new customer,” wrote a fourth user.</p>

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A hungry black bear broke into the garage of a Connecticut bakery and gobbled up 60 cupcakes before going away, as several scared employees watched helplessly. The employees at Taste by Spellbound, located in the town of Avon, were busy loading a van with cakes on Wednesday for delivery when the bear showed up.

A hungry black bear broke into the garage of a Connecticut bakery and gobbled up 60 cupcakes before going away, as several scared employees watched helplessly. The employees at Taste by Spellbound, located in the town of Avon, were busy loading a van with cakes on Wednesday for delivery when the bear showed up. Around 1,000 and 1,200 black bears live in Connecticut, as per the state environmental agency, with 158 sightings recorded last year in 169 towns and cities of the state. In an Instagram post, bakery owner Miriam Stephens stated that she heard her employee Maureen Williams “screaming bloody murder” and shouting that a bear has entered the garage. She further shared an image of half-eaten cupcakes and empty trays lying on the pavement. ALSO READ | 'Bear-aware': Police rescue curious bear trapped inside car. Watch video Real Story Alongside, the owner also wrote a detailed caption explaining the incident. “Okay. Here’s the real story. We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All of a sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling ‘there’s a bear in the garage!’ She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door. We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could,” Stephens wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miriam Hope (@tastebyspellbound) × “The cops showed up and our landlord has been working with DEEP. The bear destroyed 60 cupcakes and a bunch of coconut cakes. And that folks, is the bear story. I’m so thankful Maureen was safe and wasn't hurt, as well as the rest of the team. We do not have video or pictures - that was the last thing on our mind,” she further stated. Reacting on the same, an Instagram user joked, “Glad you guys are ok - let’s hope this bear isn’t a gossip!”. “Bear necessities,” stated another. “That is SO scary!! So glad everyone’s ok,” said a third user. “Holy macaroni!!!!! Definitely pretty scary!!! And now....the bear knows where the goods are!!!!!!” wrote a fourth user. WATCH | Gravitas: Russian 'spy whale' spotted near Sweden Video of the bizarre incident Recently a video of the bizarre incident was posted by the owner on social media. “The video you’ve all been waiting for. Enjoy! A few facts: No bears will be harmed. They have not hurt anyone and will be totally ok. No need to worry! This video was 10 minutes that we cut to 30 seconds. So yes, all the facts we put out there are true. Why was our door up? Because we were about to make our shop deliveries. We’re not irresponsible. They are more scared of us than we are of them. We all have had a good laugh about it at this point and think the bears are cute,” she wrote while sharing the video. × Various reactions of people poured in on the video. “I mean- he’s got good taste!!” said a Facebook user. “I laughed everything funnier sped up!” added another. “Kinda what I look like when I get cupcakes from you guys. I'm glad everyone is safe!!” stated a third. “A new customer,” wrote a fourth user. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Bear breaks into US bakery, gobbles up dozens of cupcakes

<p>Beijing on Wednesday&nbsp;blamed US "provocation" for an incident involving a Chinese plane&nbsp;aggressively manoeuvring&nbsp;near an American surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea.</p>

<p>"The United States' long-term and frequent sending of ships and planes to conduct close surveillance on China seriously harm China's national sovereignty and security," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning&nbsp;while speaking&nbsp;about the incident.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;demanded&nbsp;Washington "immediately stop this form of dangerous provocation".</p>

<p>The United States military had earlier stated that a Chinese fighter pilot carried out an “unnecessarily aggressive manoeuvre” around an American surveillance aircraft flying over the South China Sea last week.</p>

<p>The incident, which the Pentagon called a common behaviour of China, occurred at a time when tensions had already escalated between Beijing and Washington after the latter shot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon which was spotted traversing the skies of the United States. The ties were further strained over the issue of Taiwan as China increased military aggression near the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence” on Friday, stated the Indo-Pacific Command (IndoPaCom) in a statement.</p>

<p>“The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law,” the command added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-and-us-voice-need-to-bring-stability-to-relations-590308">China and US voice need to bring stability to relations</a></p>

<p>In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane is seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Chinese Shenyang J-16 fighter very audaciously intercepts and derails an American reconnaissance aircraft over the neutral waters of the South China Sea on May 26th. According to SkyNews, the US military has released footage of a Chinese fighter jet making what they say is an… <a href="https://t.co/tfJRNauo1i">pic.twitter.com/tfJRNauo1i</a></p>
— GWAR69 🇩🇰🇺🇦 (@GwarWorin) <a href="https://twitter.com/GwarWorin/status/1663668026254696450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A senior US defence official stated that there has been an “alarming increase in the number of risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea” by Chinese aircraft and ships – actions that “have the potential to create an unsafe incident or miscalculation”.</p>

<p>“We don’t believe it’s done by pilots operating independently. We believe it’s part of a wider pattern," the official stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A similar incident, which involved a US RC-135 and a Chinese jet took place in December and forced the American plane “to take evasive manoeuvres to avoid a collision”, stated IndoPaCom at the time.</p>

<h2><strong>China turns down invitation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement was made on the latest incident a day after the Pentagon stated that an invitation made by the US to Beijing for Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet his Chinese counterpart in Singapore later in the week was rejected.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties</strong></p>

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<p>However, senior officials stated that the announcement's timing was not related to the refusal of the invitation by China, adding that information about the aircraft incident “was subject to the US military declassification process and US diplomatic communication process”.</p>

<p>Austin as well as other US officials have been taking steps to shore up alliances and partnerships in Asia with the aim to counter Beijing's increasingly assertive moves. Still, there have been tentative signs that show both nations are working to lower the temperature.</p>

<p>US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi held talks in Vienna earlier this month, and later, US President Joe Biden stated that relations between Beijing and Washington should thaw “very soon”.</p>

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Beijing on Wednesday blamed US "provocation" for an incident involving a Chinese plane aggressively manoeuvring near an American surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea.

Beijing on Wednesday blamed US "provocation" for an incident involving a Chinese plane aggressively manoeuvring near an American surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea. "The United States' long-term and frequent sending of ships and planes to conduct close surveillance on China seriously harm China's national sovereignty and security," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning while speaking about the incident. He demanded Washington "immediately stop this form of dangerous provocation". The United States military had earlier stated that a Chinese fighter pilot carried out an “unnecessarily aggressive manoeuvre” around an American surveillance aircraft flying over the South China Sea last week. The incident, which the Pentagon called a common behaviour of China, occurred at a time when tensions had already escalated between Beijing and Washington after the latter shot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon which was spotted traversing the skies of the United States. The ties were further strained over the issue of Taiwan as China increased military aggression near the island. The Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence” on Friday, stated the Indo-Pacific Command (IndoPaCom) in a statement. “The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law,” the command added. ALSO READ | China and US voice need to bring stability to relations In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane is seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence. A Chinese Shenyang J-16 fighter very audaciously intercepts and derails an American reconnaissance aircraft over the neutral waters of the South China Sea on May 26th. According to SkyNews, the US military has released footage of a Chinese fighter jet making what they say is an… pic.twitter.com/tfJRNauo1i — GWAR69 🇩🇰🇺🇦 (@GwarWorin) May 30, 2023 × A senior US defence official stated that there has been an “alarming increase in the number of risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea” by Chinese aircraft and ships – actions that “have the potential to create an unsafe incident or miscalculation”. “We don’t believe it’s done by pilots operating independently. We believe it’s part of a wider pattern," the official stated. A similar incident, which involved a US RC-135 and a Chinese jet took place in December and forced the American plane “to take evasive manoeuvres to avoid a collision”, stated IndoPaCom at the time. China turns down invitation The announcement was made on the latest incident a day after the Pentagon stated that an invitation made by the US to Beijing for Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet his Chinese counterpart in Singapore later in the week was rejected. WATCH | Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties However, senior officials stated that the announcement's timing was not related to the refusal of the invitation by China, adding that information about the aircraft incident “was subject to the US military declassification process and US diplomatic communication process”. Austin as well as other US officials have been taking steps to shore up alliances and partnerships in Asia with the aim to counter Beijing's increasingly assertive moves. Still, there have been tentative signs that show both nations are working to lower the temperature. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi held talks in Vienna earlier this month, and later, US President Joe Biden stated that relations between Beijing and Washington should thaw “very soon”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US 'provocation' led to South China Sea fighter jet incident, says Beijing

<p>A senior military official said that the United States is prepared for space conflict after developing anti-satellite technologies to tackle the risks posed by "provocative" countries such as Russia and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The space race has intensified and nations are ramping up their space industry with an aim to stay ahead of other nations. In recent times, space gradually became a new area of competition between China and the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world's two largest economies, which are rivals when it comes to military influence and diplomacy, are planning to land astronauts on the moon. China hopes to do it before 2030, whereas the US claims to put astronauts back on the lunar surface by the end of 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Brigadier General Jesse Morehouse, the deputy director of strategy, plans, and policy at US Space Command stated that Russian aggression and China's goal of becoming the dominant space power by mid-century have left the US with "no choice" but to prepare for orbital fights.</p>

<p>Last week, Brig Gen Morehouse was in London to discuss the combined space capabilities of the two countries at a conference called the Space Operations Summit 2023, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at a press conference, he told reporters that the US embassy that America was "ready to fight tonight in space if we had to".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'We are ready to fight'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As quoted, he said, "If someone was to threaten the United States of America, or any of our interests, including those of our allies and partners with whom we have treaties of mutual defence support, we are ready to fight tonight."&nbsp;</p>

<p>To tackle such threat, there are anti-satellite capabilities and four countries - China, the US, India and Russia - have even tested it by destroying their own satellites with missiles from the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the US unilaterally banned such action last year because of issues regarding debris, and decades-long risk to other satellites.</p>

<p>Some nations, including the Netherlands, Austria and Italy, have followed America's lead and pledged not to perform "destructive" anti-satellite (ASAT) tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2021, Russia shot down one of its own satellites and the explosion showered its orbit with more than 1,500 trackable fragments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weighing in, Morehouse said recently that "when you create that debris cloud and it lingers on orbit for decades, it's almost like detonating a nuclear weapon in your own backyard. You pay the price too".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported, Morehouse said on Thursday the US would continue to develop anti-satellite technologies "not because we want to fight tonight, but because that’s the best way to deter conflict from happening". He further added that it would do so "without engaging in irresponsible tests".&nbsp;</p>

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A senior military official said that the United States is prepared for space conflict after developing anti-satellite technologies to tackle the risks posed by "provocative" countries such as Russia and China.

A senior military official said that the United States is prepared for space conflict after developing anti-satellite technologies to tackle the risks posed by "provocative" countries such as Russia and China. The space race has intensified and nations are ramping up their space industry with an aim to stay ahead of other nations. In recent times, space gradually became a new area of competition between China and the US. The world's two largest economies, which are rivals when it comes to military influence and diplomacy, are planning to land astronauts on the moon. China hopes to do it before 2030, whereas the US claims to put astronauts back on the lunar surface by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, Brigadier General Jesse Morehouse, the deputy director of strategy, plans, and policy at US Space Command stated that Russian aggression and China's goal of becoming the dominant space power by mid-century have left the US with "no choice" but to prepare for orbital fights. Last week, Brig Gen Morehouse was in London to discuss the combined space capabilities of the two countries at a conference called the Space Operations Summit 2023, The Guardian reported. While speaking at a press conference, he told reporters that the US embassy that America was "ready to fight tonight in space if we had to". 'We are ready to fight' As quoted, he said, "If someone was to threaten the United States of America, or any of our interests, including those of our allies and partners with whom we have treaties of mutual defence support, we are ready to fight tonight." To tackle such threat, there are anti-satellite capabilities and four countries - China, the US, India and Russia - have even tested it by destroying their own satellites with missiles from the ground. But the US unilaterally banned such action last year because of issues regarding debris, and decades-long risk to other satellites. Some nations, including the Netherlands, Austria and Italy, have followed America's lead and pledged not to perform "destructive" anti-satellite (ASAT) tests. In 2021, Russia shot down one of its own satellites and the explosion showered its orbit with more than 1,500 trackable fragments. Weighing in, Morehouse said recently that "when you create that debris cloud and it lingers on orbit for decades, it's almost like detonating a nuclear weapon in your own backyard. You pay the price too". As reported, Morehouse said on Thursday the US would continue to develop anti-satellite technologies "not because we want to fight tonight, but because that’s the best way to deter conflict from happening". He further added that it would do so "without engaging in irresponsible tests". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Military official says US 'ready to fight in space' against threats posed by 'provocative' nations

<p>An adorable video of a service dog, named Justin, being awarded a diploma at the commencement ceremony for New Jersey’s Seton Hall University, has won millions of hearts worldwide.</p>

<p>In the video, shared by the university's official social media handle, Seton Hall's Joseph E. Nyre can be seen presenting Grace Mariani and Justin, her service dog, with their degrees.</p>

<p>"Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, PhD presents Justin, the service dog for Grace Mariani, of Mahwah, NJ, with a diploma for attending all of Grace’s classes at Seton Hall," posted the official Twitter account of Seton Hall.</p>

<p>The students present at the graduation ceremony can be heard cheering loudly as Justin accepted the degree. Many gave the pooch a standing ovation while its wheelchair-bound owner smiled in the adorable moment captured in the video.</p>

<p>Seton Hall president Joseph E. Nyre can be seen raising both his hands as Justin holds the document in its mouth after sniffing it.</p>

<p>The canine was presented with the rolled-up document to celebrate its dedication for not only assisting her owner Mariani but also attending all of her classes during her time at school.</p>

<p>In a conversation with CBS News, the university said that Mariani graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree and aims to teach elementary and special education.</p>

<p>The dog was provided to Grace by a non-profit organisation named Canine Companions. The organisation took to Twitter and wrote "Our client, Grace and her Canine Companions #servicedog Justin graduated from @SetonHall, and now, the entire country is cheering them on! Congratulations, Grace and Justin!".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. presents Justin, the service dog for Grace Mariani, of Mahwah, NJ, with a diploma for attending all of Grace’s classes at Seton Hall. <a href="https://t.co/sZgHD5Fs3X">pic.twitter.com/sZgHD5Fs3X</a></p>
— Seton Hall (@SetonHall) <a href="https://twitter.com/SetonHall/status/1661138314177421312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens react</strong></h2>

<p>The video so far has garnered over 290K views and 1,508 likes.</p>

<p>The users appreciated the dog's dedication and congratulated Justin and its owner.</p>

<p>"It was great to have been in the same training class at Canine Companions as Grace and Justin! What a wonderful moment," commented a user.</p>

<p>"This has to be the sweetest thing I have ever seen! I cheered with everyone! Well worth the ovation! Congratulations, Grace and Justin!" wrote another.</p>

<p>"Yea Grace &amp; Justin! Service dogs give people the independence they couldn't have. Such a special dog &amp; the people they serve. We just don't deserve dogs," remarked the third.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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An adorable video of a service dog, named Justin, being awarded a diploma at the commencement ceremony for New Jersey’s Seton Hall University, has won millions of hearts worldwide.

An adorable video of a service dog, named Justin, being awarded a diploma at the commencement ceremony for New Jersey’s Seton Hall University, has won millions of hearts worldwide. In the video, shared by the university's official social media handle, Seton Hall's Joseph E. Nyre can be seen presenting Grace Mariani and Justin, her service dog, with their degrees. "Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, PhD presents Justin, the service dog for Grace Mariani, of Mahwah, NJ, with a diploma for attending all of Grace’s classes at Seton Hall," posted the official Twitter account of Seton Hall. The students present at the graduation ceremony can be heard cheering loudly as Justin accepted the degree. Many gave the pooch a standing ovation while its wheelchair-bound owner smiled in the adorable moment captured in the video. Seton Hall president Joseph E. Nyre can be seen raising both his hands as Justin holds the document in its mouth after sniffing it. The canine was presented with the rolled-up document to celebrate its dedication for not only assisting her owner Mariani but also attending all of her classes during her time at school. In a conversation with CBS News, the university said that Mariani graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree and aims to teach elementary and special education. The dog was provided to Grace by a non-profit organisation named Canine Companions. The organisation took to Twitter and wrote "Our client, Grace and her Canine Companions #servicedog Justin graduated from @SetonHall, and now, the entire country is cheering them on! Congratulations, Grace and Justin!". Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. presents Justin, the service dog for Grace Mariani, of Mahwah, NJ, with a diploma for attending all of Grace’s classes at Seton Hall. pic.twitter.com/sZgHD5Fs3X — Seton Hall (@SetonHall) May 23, 2023 × Netizens react The video so far has garnered over 290K views and 1,508 likes. The users appreciated the dog's dedication and congratulated Justin and its owner. "It was great to have been in the same training class at Canine Companions as Grace and Justin! What a wonderful moment," commented a user. "This has to be the sweetest thing I have ever seen! I cheered with everyone! Well worth the ovation! Congratulations, Grace and Justin!" wrote another. "Yea Grace & Justin! Service dogs give people the independence they couldn't have. Such a special dog & the people they serve. We just don't deserve dogs," remarked the third. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Service dog receives honorary diploma along with owner at graduation ceremony

<p>For Turkey's presidential election run-off that concluded on Sunday, the result is in and the verdict is out. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won the unprecedented run-off vote, trumping his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to claim the beginning of his third decade into power in Ankara's corridors of power, data published by state-run Anadolu news agency showed. &nbsp;On the other hand, United States President Joe Biden said on Sunday (May 28) that a final bipartisan deal to raise the US debt ceiling now heads to Congress. The deal was struck with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy just a few days before the deadline day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more</strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-presidential-run-off-results-erdogan-trumps-kilicdaroglu-in-historic-vote-597594">Turkey presidential run off results: Erdogan trumps Kilicdaroglu in historic vote</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/28/355027-untitled-design-2023-05-28t223135560.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>According to the Supreme Election Council, Erdogan defeated his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu with 52.14 per cent of the vote in the second round of voting on Sunday. Kilicdaroglu garnered 47.86 per cent of the vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development occurs two weeks after the incumbent president failed to secure more than 50 per cent of the votes required for an outright victory in the first round on May 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deal-to-raise-debt-ceiling-heads-to-congress-biden-urges-passage-597641">US: Deal to raise debt ceiling heads to Congress, Biden urges passage</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/29/355050-united-states-president-joe-biden-2.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Joe Biden has urged "both chambers to pass that agreement" and also noted that he did not make too many concessions to end a debt limit crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a brief appearance before the media at the White House, Biden said, "I think it's a really important step forward. It takes the threat of a catastrophic default off the table."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-preparing-to-launch-satellite-in-the-coming-weeks-says-japan-597647">North Korea preparing to launch satellite in the coming weeks, says Japan</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/29/355057-succession-68.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>North Korea has informed Japan of its plan to launch what it calls a &nbsp;'satellite' &nbsp;between May 31 and June 11, said a Japanese coast guard official on Monday.</p>

<p>As per Japanese officials, the launch is set to involve a ballistic projectile, according to a tweet from the prime minister's office that alludes to a "ballistic missile that it (Pyongyang) describes as a satellite."</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-president-lukashenko-rushed-to-hospital-after-meeting-with-putin-opposition-leader-597612">Belarus President Lukashenko rushed to hospital after meeting with Putin: Report</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/28/355033-wion-images-2023-05-28t233438763.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has "urgently" been taken to a hospital in Moscow and now is in critical condition after meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin, said the Belarus opposition leader, Valery Tsepkalo. According to Tsepkalo, Lukashenko was taken to Moscow’s Central Clinical Hospital after his meeting with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | India conducts national cyber defence exercise amid escalating threats&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>India's national security agencies, in collaboration with the tri-services, are presently engaged in a weeklong cyber defence exercise to assess the durability of India's essential civilian and military infrastructure, as stated by officials in the know. With the threat of cyberattacks from China and other adversaries intensifying daily, the exercise is aimed at testing the resilience of India's critical infrastructure.</p>

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For Turkey's presidential election run-off that concluded on Sunday, the result is in and the verdict is out. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won the unprecedented run-off vote, trumping his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to claim the beginning of his third decade into power in Ankara's corridors of power, data published by state-run Anadolu news agency showed.

For Turkey's presidential election run-off that concluded on Sunday, the result is in and the verdict is out. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won the unprecedented run-off vote, trumping his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to claim the beginning of his third decade into power in Ankara's corridors of power, data published by state-run Anadolu news agency showed. On the other hand, United States President Joe Biden said on Sunday (May 28) that a final bipartisan deal to raise the US debt ceiling now heads to Congress. The deal was struck with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy just a few days before the deadline day. Click on the headlines to read more Turkey presidential run off results: Erdogan trumps Kilicdaroglu in historic vote According to the Supreme Election Council, Erdogan defeated his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu with 52.14 per cent of the vote in the second round of voting on Sunday. Kilicdaroglu garnered 47.86 per cent of the vote. The development occurs two weeks after the incumbent president failed to secure more than 50 per cent of the votes required for an outright victory in the first round on May 14. US: Deal to raise debt ceiling heads to Congress, Biden urges passage Joe Biden has urged "both chambers to pass that agreement" and also noted that he did not make too many concessions to end a debt limit crisis. In a brief appearance before the media at the White House, Biden said, "I think it's a really important step forward. It takes the threat of a catastrophic default off the table." North Korea preparing to launch satellite in the coming weeks, says Japan North Korea has informed Japan of its plan to launch what it calls a 'satellite' between May 31 and June 11, said a Japanese coast guard official on Monday. As per Japanese officials, the launch is set to involve a ballistic projectile, according to a tweet from the prime minister's office that alludes to a "ballistic missile that it (Pyongyang) describes as a satellite." Belarus President Lukashenko rushed to hospital after meeting with Putin: Report Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has "urgently" been taken to a hospital in Moscow and now is in critical condition after meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin, said the Belarus opposition leader, Valery Tsepkalo. According to Tsepkalo, Lukashenko was taken to Moscow’s Central Clinical Hospital after his meeting with Putin. WATCH | India conducts national cyber defence exercise amid escalating threats India's national security agencies, in collaboration with the tri-services, are presently engaged in a weeklong cyber defence exercise to assess the durability of India's essential civilian and military infrastructure, as stated by officials in the know. With the threat of cyberattacks from China and other adversaries intensifying daily, the exercise is aimed at testing the resilience of India's critical infrastructure. ×

Morning news brief: Erdogan trumps Kilicdaroglu in historic vote, US debt ceiling deal, and more

<p>A judge has issued a temporary halt to South Carolina's new law that bans most abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. The Friday ruling by Judge Clifton Newman came shortly after Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law. As a result, South Carolina will revert back to a ban on abortions at approximately 20 weeks after fertilisation until the state Supreme Court reviews the measure.</p>

<p>Judge Newman stated that the status quo should be maintained until the Supreme Court has an opportunity to review the law. "It's going to end up there," he said.</p>

<p>The newly passed law is similar to a previous ban on abortions once a heartbeat is detected, which was passed in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-carolina-passes-six-week-abortion-ban-details-here-595807">US: South Carolina passes six-week abortion ban. Details here</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the state Supreme Court in a 3-2 decision ruled that the 2021 law violated the right to privacy outlined in the state constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per AP, legislative leaders believe that the new law makes some technical tweaks and that these may influence at least one justice to reconsider their position, especially since the author of the previous ruling has retired.</p>

<p>However, abortion rights group Planned Parenthood contends that the new law is so similar to the previous one that it would harm clinics and women seeking treatment if it remains in effect until a full court review.</p>

<p>Planned Parenthood immediately filed a lawsuit against the new law upon its signing, arguing that it created uncertainty for South Carolina's abortion clinics, resulting in cancelled appointments for patients in the later stages of pregnancy and requiring doctors to give careful consideration to the new regulations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The majority opinion in the state Supreme Court ruling that struck down the 2021 law highlighted the authority of lawmakers to protect life but ultimately recognised that the privacy clause in the state constitution grants women the time to decide whether to have an abortion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-carolina-legislature-overrides-12-week-abortion-ban-veto-makes-it-law-593429">North Carolina legislature overrides 12-week abortion ban veto, makes it law</a></strong></p>

<p>It stated that most women are unaware of their pregnancy at six weeks after conception.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Justice Kaye Hearn, who authored the opinion, has since retired, leaving the South Carolina Supreme Court as the only high court in the country without a female justice.</p>

<p>The changes made in the new law specifically target Justice John Few, who was part of the majority in the previous ruling. Justice Few expressed concerns about the poorly written nature of the 2021 law and suggested that a full ban on abortion would likely be constitutional.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He compared a ban to child abuse or rape laws and said that it would not violate privacy rights if a fetus is granted the same rights as a person.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new law includes exceptions for fatal fetal anomalies, the life and health of the patient, and cases of rape or incest within the first 12 weeks. Violating the law could result in felony charges for doctors, carrying a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $10,000 fine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A judge has issued a temporary halt to South Carolina's new law that bans most abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. The Friday ruling by Judge Clifton Newman came shortly after Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law.

A judge has issued a temporary halt to South Carolina's new law that bans most abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. The Friday ruling by Judge Clifton Newman came shortly after Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law. As a result, South Carolina will revert back to a ban on abortions at approximately 20 weeks after fertilisation until the state Supreme Court reviews the measure. Judge Newman stated that the status quo should be maintained until the Supreme Court has an opportunity to review the law. "It's going to end up there," he said. The newly passed law is similar to a previous ban on abortions once a heartbeat is detected, which was passed in 2021. Also read | US: South Carolina passes six-week abortion ban. Details here However, the state Supreme Court in a 3-2 decision ruled that the 2021 law violated the right to privacy outlined in the state constitution. As per AP, legislative leaders believe that the new law makes some technical tweaks and that these may influence at least one justice to reconsider their position, especially since the author of the previous ruling has retired. However, abortion rights group Planned Parenthood contends that the new law is so similar to the previous one that it would harm clinics and women seeking treatment if it remains in effect until a full court review. Planned Parenthood immediately filed a lawsuit against the new law upon its signing, arguing that it created uncertainty for South Carolina's abortion clinics, resulting in cancelled appointments for patients in the later stages of pregnancy and requiring doctors to give careful consideration to the new regulations. The majority opinion in the state Supreme Court ruling that struck down the 2021 law highlighted the authority of lawmakers to protect life but ultimately recognised that the privacy clause in the state constitution grants women the time to decide whether to have an abortion. Also read | North Carolina legislature overrides 12-week abortion ban veto, makes it law It stated that most women are unaware of their pregnancy at six weeks after conception. Justice Kaye Hearn, who authored the opinion, has since retired, leaving the South Carolina Supreme Court as the only high court in the country without a female justice. The changes made in the new law specifically target Justice John Few, who was part of the majority in the previous ruling. Justice Few expressed concerns about the poorly written nature of the 2021 law and suggested that a full ban on abortion would likely be constitutional. He compared a ban to child abuse or rape laws and said that it would not violate privacy rights if a fetus is granted the same rights as a person. The new law includes exceptions for fatal fetal anomalies, the life and health of the patient, and cases of rape or incest within the first 12 weeks. Violating the law could result in felony charges for doctors, carrying a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Carolina judge temporarily blocks abortion ban, pending Supreme Court review

<p>A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US.<br />
<br />
The recommendation of including India in the five-member group was made to win the “strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party”.<br />
<br />
The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United States adopted a policy proposal to enhance the deterrence of Taiwan, which included strengthening of NATO Plus by the inclusion of India.<br />
<br />
The committee is headed by chairman Mike Gallagher along with ranking member Raja Krishnamoorthi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-host-quad-summit-in-2024-594495">India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi</a></p>

<p>“Winning the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and ensuring the security of Taiwan demands the United States strengthen ties with our allies and security partners, including India. Including India in Nato Plus security arrangements would build upon the US and India’s close partnership to strengthen global security and deter the aggression of the CCP across the Indo-Pacific region,” stated the Select Committee in the recommendations released on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
According to its official website, the Select Committee on the CCP is “committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values.”<br />
<br />
Top Democratic leader of the panel, Raja Krishnamoorthi, said that both Republicans and Democrats should work together across the aisle.<br />
<br />
“We must practice bipartisanship. We must recognise that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>India's addition to ensure&nbsp;seamless intelligence sharing</strong></h2>

<p>The recommendations stated that adding India to the group would ensure seamless intelligence sharing between these group countries and New Delhi would get easy access to the latest military technology without any delay.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Quad meet on developments in the Indo-Pacific and regional issues</strong></p>

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<p>“The United States should strengthen the Nato Plus arrangement to include India. The United States should also strengthen diplomatic deterrence by supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and amending the TAIPEI Act to provide that the United States, alongside its allies and partners, should publicly oppose any attempts by the CCP to resolve the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty by intentionally misusing, misinterpreting, and misleading others on the underlying purpose of UN Resolution 2758 or the United States’ One China Policy,” the recommendation stated.<br />
<br />
India is already an important member of the Quad group, which includes Japan, Australia and the United States.</p>

<main>
<section>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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</section>
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A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US.

A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US. The recommendation of including India in the five-member group was made to win the “strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party”. The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United States adopted a policy proposal to enhance the deterrence of Taiwan, which included strengthening of NATO Plus by the inclusion of India. The committee is headed by chairman Mike Gallagher along with ranking member Raja Krishnamoorthi. ALSO READ | India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi “Winning the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and ensuring the security of Taiwan demands the United States strengthen ties with our allies and security partners, including India. Including India in Nato Plus security arrangements would build upon the US and India’s close partnership to strengthen global security and deter the aggression of the CCP across the Indo-Pacific region,” stated the Select Committee in the recommendations released on Wednesday. According to its official website, the Select Committee on the CCP is “committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values.” Top Democratic leader of the panel, Raja Krishnamoorthi, said that both Republicans and Democrats should work together across the aisle. “We must practice bipartisanship. We must recognise that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” he added. India's addition to ensure seamless intelligence sharing The recommendations stated that adding India to the group would ensure seamless intelligence sharing between these group countries and New Delhi would get easy access to the latest military technology without any delay. WATCH | India: Quad meet on developments in the Indo-Pacific and regional issues “The United States should strengthen the Nato Plus arrangement to include India. The United States should also strengthen diplomatic deterrence by supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and amending the TAIPEI Act to provide that the United States, alongside its allies and partners, should publicly oppose any attempts by the CCP to resolve the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty by intentionally misusing, misinterpreting, and misleading others on the underlying purpose of UN Resolution 2758 or the United States’ One China Policy,” the recommendation stated. India is already an important member of the Quad group, which includes Japan, Australia and the United States. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US House panel recommends inclusion of India in NATO Plus to deter China

<p>United States President Joe Biden struck a deal ‘in principle’ with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare.&nbsp;On June 5, the government is likely to hit its borrowing limit which was increasing the chances of the world's largest economy defaulting on its repayment obligations and putting the global markets on fire.<br />
<br />
The negotiators agreed to cap the non-defence discretionary spending at 2023 levels for one year and increase it by 1% in 2025, said a source familiar with the deal, further adding that&nbsp;the agreement includes a two-year appropriations deal and a two-year debt limit extension, effectively resolving the issue until after the 2024 election. said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Congress to vote on debt ceiling bill Wednesday: McCarthy</strong></h2>

<p>Confirming the striking of a deal in principle in ongoing negotiations between Republicans and the White House to increase the debt ceiling, Republican leader Kevin McCarthy said that Congress is likely to vote on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
"I just got off the phone with the president a bit ago," tweeted McCarthy on Saturday evening. "After he wasted time and refused to negotiate for months, we've come to an agreement in principle that is worthy of the American people,” he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Republicans are poised to deliver big, consequential change in Washington. Soon, we will vote for a responsible debt limit agreement that stops Democrats' reckless spending, claws back unspent COVID funds, blocks Biden's new tax schemes, &amp; much, much more <a href="https://t.co/TQ7CblFsaM">https://t.co/TQ7CblFsaM</a></p>
— Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerMcCarthy/status/1662627260401356800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>McCarthy said that he will have another round of talks with President Biden on Sunday and oversee the final draft of the bill, further stating that the House of Representatives will be "voting on it on Wednesday."</p>

<h2><strong>'Compromise' debt bill will avert 'catastrophic default', says Biden</strong></h2>

<p>President Biden said that the draft bill finalised on Saturday will increase the US debt ceiling and stop a "catastrophic default”.<br />
<br />
The Democrat stated the bill was a "compromise, which means not everyone gets what they want."<br />
<br />
However, "it prevents what could have been a catastrophic default and would have led to an economic recession, retirement accounts devastated, and millions of jobs lost," he added in a statement.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earlier this evening, Speaker McCarthy and I reached a budget agreement in principle.<br />
<br />
It is an important step forward that reduces spending while protecting critical programs for working people and growing the economy for everyone. And, the agreement protects my and…</p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1662639703764484096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The end of weeks of ongoing negotiations in Congress and the White House will help the government to add to its $31 trillion-plus debt and avert a downgraded credit rating, further decreasing the looming threat of recession.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Party leaders are now in a race against time to finalise the agreement through Congress as hard-right Republicans and Democratic progressives are crying foul over concessions made to finalise the deal.</p>

<p>US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen had earlier issued a warning of a possible default on June 1 if the debt ceiling is not raised by Congress, however, the lawmakers received breathing room on Friday when the deadline was updated by her to June 5.</p>

<p>Even with the updated deadline, Congress needs to clear the legislation much more quickly than the time stipulated for even the most uncontroversial bills.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States President Joe Biden struck a deal ‘in principle’ with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare.

United States President Joe Biden struck a deal ‘in principle’ with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare. On June 5, the government is likely to hit its borrowing limit which was increasing the chances of the world's largest economy defaulting on its repayment obligations and putting the global markets on fire. The negotiators agreed to cap the non-defence discretionary spending at 2023 levels for one year and increase it by 1% in 2025, said a source familiar with the deal, further adding that the agreement includes a two-year appropriations deal and a two-year debt limit extension, effectively resolving the issue until after the 2024 election. said. Congress to vote on debt ceiling bill Wednesday: McCarthy Confirming the striking of a deal in principle in ongoing negotiations between Republicans and the White House to increase the debt ceiling, Republican leader Kevin McCarthy said that Congress is likely to vote on Wednesday. "I just got off the phone with the president a bit ago," tweeted McCarthy on Saturday evening. "After he wasted time and refused to negotiate for months, we've come to an agreement in principle that is worthy of the American people,” he added. Republicans are poised to deliver big, consequential change in Washington. Soon, we will vote for a responsible debt limit agreement that stops Democrats' reckless spending, claws back unspent COVID funds, blocks Biden's new tax schemes, & much, much more https://t.co/TQ7CblFsaM — Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) May 28, 2023 × McCarthy said that he will have another round of talks with President Biden on Sunday and oversee the final draft of the bill, further stating that the House of Representatives will be "voting on it on Wednesday." 'Compromise' debt bill will avert 'catastrophic default', says Biden President Biden said that the draft bill finalised on Saturday will increase the US debt ceiling and stop a "catastrophic default”. The Democrat stated the bill was a "compromise, which means not everyone gets what they want." However, "it prevents what could have been a catastrophic default and would have led to an economic recession, retirement accounts devastated, and millions of jobs lost," he added in a statement. Earlier this evening, Speaker McCarthy and I reached a budget agreement in principle. It is an important step forward that reduces spending while protecting critical programs for working people and growing the economy for everyone. And, the agreement protects my and… — President Biden (@POTUS) May 28, 2023 × The end of weeks of ongoing negotiations in Congress and the White House will help the government to add to its $31 trillion-plus debt and avert a downgraded credit rating, further decreasing the looming threat of recession. Party leaders are now in a race against time to finalise the agreement through Congress as hard-right Republicans and Democratic progressives are crying foul over concessions made to finalise the deal. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen had earlier issued a warning of a possible default on June 1 if the debt ceiling is not raised by Congress, however, the lawmakers received breathing room on Friday when the deadline was updated by her to June 5. Even with the updated deadline, Congress needs to clear the legislation much more quickly than the time stipulated for even the most uncontroversial bills. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Biden, Republicans reach ‘in principle’ deal to avert catastrophic debt default

<p>Few people remain influential at 100. They are either dead or about to die, frail in mind and body.</p>

<p>Henry Kissinger, the former US Secretary of State, is both alive and influential. He might be frail in body, but his mind is sharp. Having outlived almost all his detractors, the man once accused of a dark side that changed much of the world, has evolved over the past decades into a statesman feted by leaders globally. Nobody alive has more experience of international affairs than him, The Economist magazine recently wrote after interviewing him.</p>

<p>If Kissinger’s actions in countries such as Cambodia, Lao, Vietnam, Chile, Bangladesh, and Argentina among others were questionable and deeply criticised, he did have a few credits to his account, which he used well to keep himself relevant in the more than four decades since he last held any official position in the US government.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-austin-and-german-defence-minister-pistorius-to-visit-india-596719">US Defence Secretary Austin and German Defence Minister Pistorius to visit India</a></p>

<p>Kissinger’s biggest coup was bringing China out from behind the Iron Curtain at the peak of the Cold War when in 1971, he made a secret visit to Beijing after feigning illness while on an official visit to Islamabad. He jumped on a Pakistan air force aircraft and travelled to meet the Great Helmsman Mao Zedong and his deputy Chou Enlai and eventually ended up becoming a trusted friend of and advisor to successive Chinese leaders. He also must be credited with initiatives around détente with the Soviet Union and the Middle East shuttle diplomacy in the 1970s when the world was hit by the first oil crisis.</p>

<p>In the book <em>A New Cold War – Henry Kissinger and the Rise of China</em> that I co-edited we talk about how that trip and a later visit by then US&nbsp;President Richard Nixon redefined US-China relations and the global balance of power forever. More significant than the political and diplomatic stamp of acceptance was the economic empowerment of China thanks to the supportive US&nbsp;and trade policies. Kissinger, in many ways, helped create an economic behemoth that Americans today hate and fear.</p>

<p>Kissinger has probably written as much on issues of national and international importance as he has been written about. An army of reporters and authors have slammed him and lauded him too. Intrepid journalist Seymour Hersh “gave us the defining portrait of Kissinger as a preening paranoid, tacking between ruthlessness and sycophancy to advance his career, cursing his fate and letting fly the B-52s,” Greg Grandin wrote in his book <em>Kissinger’s Shadows – The Long Reach of America’s Most Controversial Statesman.</em>&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“Kissinger, in Hersh’s hands, is nonetheless Shakespearean because the pettiness gets played out on a world stage with epic consequences,” he wrote.</p>

<p>Indeed, Kissinger’s shadow has been both long and wide and sometimes dark. Historical documents, many available in the National Security Archives of the US record his role in the overthrow of the leadership in Chile, support for genocidal wars, secret bombing campaigns in Southeast Asia and secret wiretapping of his own officials.</p>

<p>And then there was East Pakistan, which became Bangladesh but not before Pakistani military carried out what the US&nbsp;envoy to Dhaka called a ‘selective genocide’ that left half a million dead, hundreds of thousands of women raped and burdened India with millions of refugees pouring in from across the border.</p>

<p>Kissinger and Nixon both turned a blind eye to missives from American officials in Dhaka who in a diplomatic cable accused their own government of “bending over backwards to placate the West Pak dominated government and to lessen likely and deservedly negative international public relations impact against them.” The secret military support to Pakistan continued.</p>

<p>In November 1971, as India grappled with the crisis and prepared to go to war against Pakistan, its western neighbour, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi travelled to Washington for talks on the issue. Nixon and Kissinger, hugely obliged to Islamabad for its help in reaching out to the Chinese weren’t very excited about the visit. Declassified documents report a conversation between the two in which Kissinger called Indians “bastards” and Nixon called Gandhi a “bitch’.</p>

<p>So, who is the Kissinger we might want to remember? Somebody who needed to be charged as a war criminal for the bombings in Cambodia or a sober statesman with a worldview that we need to follow?</p>

<p>After stepping down from the government, Kissinger reinvented himself as an advisor to global political and business leaders. He has spent time writing about and commenting on issues that matter, including jointly penning a book on challenges posed to the world by the spread of artificial intelligence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US is only two weeks away from defaulting</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-is-only-two-weeks-away-from-defaulting-594906/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>There are few others than Kissinger who understand the complications around great-power confrontation as the United States and China continue to bare their teeth at each other in a world battling very different geopolitical challenges post the Covid epidemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine – both of which have introduced new economic and political uncertainties to the world.</p>

<p>Kissinger’s advantage is that he knows and respects history. He understands global blocs and national interests. Though an avid proponent of realism, Kissinger also appreciates that the new world needs new paradigms. Moreover, he has lived through several US presidents and every Chinese leader from Mao to Xi Jinping to appreciate the impact of the deepening fault lines between a superpower and a nation trying to be powerful.</p>

<p>At 100, he understands the new world and knows there is no guaranteed course. It might be worth looking at him now more as a sober statesman.</p>

<p><strong><em>(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.)</em></strong></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Few people remain influential at 100. They are either dead or about to die, frail in mind and body. Henry Kissinger, the former US Secretary of State, is both alive and influential.

Few people remain influential at 100. They are either dead or about to die, frail in mind and body. Henry Kissinger, the former US Secretary of State, is both alive and influential. He might be frail in body, but his mind is sharp. Having outlived almost all his detractors, the man once accused of a dark side that changed much of the world, has evolved over the past decades into a statesman feted by leaders globally. Nobody alive has more experience of international affairs than him, The Economist magazine recently wrote after interviewing him. If Kissinger’s actions in countries such as Cambodia, Lao, Vietnam, Chile, Bangladesh, and Argentina among others were questionable and deeply criticised, he did have a few credits to his account, which he used well to keep himself relevant in the more than four decades since he last held any official position in the US government. ALSO READ | US Defence Secretary Austin and German Defence Minister Pistorius to visit India Kissinger’s biggest coup was bringing China out from behind the Iron Curtain at the peak of the Cold War when in 1971, he made a secret visit to Beijing after feigning illness while on an official visit to Islamabad. He jumped on a Pakistan air force aircraft and travelled to meet the Great Helmsman Mao Zedong and his deputy Chou Enlai and eventually ended up becoming a trusted friend of and advisor to successive Chinese leaders. He also must be credited with initiatives around détente with the Soviet Union and the Middle East shuttle diplomacy in the 1970s when the world was hit by the first oil crisis. In the book A New Cold War – Henry Kissinger and the Rise of China that I co-edited we talk about how that trip and a later visit by then US President Richard Nixon redefined US-China relations and the global balance of power forever. More significant than the political and diplomatic stamp of acceptance was the economic empowerment of China thanks to the supportive US and trade policies. Kissinger, in many ways, helped create an economic behemoth that Americans today hate and fear. Kissinger has probably written as much on issues of national and international importance as he has been written about. An army of reporters and authors have slammed him and lauded him too. Intrepid journalist Seymour Hersh “gave us the defining portrait of Kissinger as a preening paranoid, tacking between ruthlessness and sycophancy to advance his career, cursing his fate and letting fly the B-52s,” Greg Grandin wrote in his book Kissinger’s Shadows – The Long Reach of America’s Most Controversial Statesman. “Kissinger, in Hersh’s hands, is nonetheless Shakespearean because the pettiness gets played out on a world stage with epic consequences,” he wrote. Indeed, Kissinger’s shadow has been both long and wide and sometimes dark. Historical documents, many available in the National Security Archives of the US record his role in the overthrow of the leadership in Chile, support for genocidal wars, secret bombing campaigns in Southeast Asia and secret wiretapping of his own officials. And then there was East Pakistan, which became Bangladesh but not before Pakistani military carried out what the US envoy to Dhaka called a ‘selective genocide’ that left half a million dead, hundreds of thousands of women raped and burdened India with millions of refugees pouring in from across the border. Kissinger and Nixon both turned a blind eye to missives from American officials in Dhaka who in a diplomatic cable accused their own government of “bending over backwards to placate the West Pak dominated government and to lessen likely and deservedly negative international public relations impact against them.” The secret military support to Pakistan continued. In November 1971, as India grappled with the crisis and prepared to go to war against Pakistan, its western neighbour, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi travelled to Washington for talks on the issue. Nixon and Kissinger, hugely obliged to Islamabad for its help in reaching out to the Chinese weren’t very excited about the visit. Declassified documents report a conversation between the two in which Kissinger called Indians “bastards” and Nixon called Gandhi a “bitch’. So, who is the Kissinger we might want to remember? Somebody who needed to be charged as a war criminal for the bombings in Cambodia or a sober statesman with a worldview that we need to follow? After stepping down from the government, Kissinger reinvented himself as an advisor to global political and business leaders. He has spent time writing about and commenting on issues that matter, including jointly penning a book on challenges posed to the world by the spread of artificial intelligence. WATCH | US is only two weeks away from defaulting There are few others than Kissinger who understand the complications around great-power confrontation as the United States and China continue to bare their teeth at each other in a world battling very different geopolitical challenges post the Covid epidemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine – both of which have introduced new economic and political uncertainties to the world. Kissinger’s advantage is that he knows and respects history. He understands global blocs and national interests. Though an avid proponent of realism, Kissinger also appreciates that the new world needs new paradigms. Moreover, he has lived through several US presidents and every Chinese leader from Mao to Xi Jinping to appreciate the impact of the deepening fault lines between a superpower and a nation trying to be powerful. At 100, he understands the new world and knows there is no guaranteed course. It might be worth looking at him now more as a sober statesman. (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.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Henry Kissinger at 100: A crooked legacy

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