When an 80-year-old man in Texas, United States, had to return to work post retirement because of a hike in the house rent, some students of a school - where he worked as a janitor - came forward to help him and leveraged the power of social media. They managed to raise about $270,000 to help James, the elderly janitor, get some much-deserved rest. According to local media, he was forced to come back to resume the daily work routine when the rent was increased to $400 a month.

Initially, the students had aimed to raise about $10,000 when the campaign was started on online fundraising website GoFundMe on February 15. "This is our 80-year-old janitor who has rent raised and had to come back to work. Let's help Mr James out," Greyson Thurman, one of the students, wrote on TikTok along with a photo that captured the elderly man in the middle of his daily routine.&nbsp; “Nobody at that age should be working; they should be living the rest of their life," Thurman told KDFW Fox 4, a local news outlet. In a span of 10 days, however, around 8,600 users came forward. The top donor contributed $2,500.

Also watch: Trending on WION | Turkey Earthquake: 9-year-old boy donates piggy-bank savings to relief funds

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Thanking people for the success of the campaign, Thurman left a note on Friday (February 25) on the GoFundMe page, saying that he was asked by James to close the campaign.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp; <a href="http://wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-quake-anonymous-pakistani-donor-in-us-donates-30-million-to-victims-561506">Turkey-Syria quake: Anonymous Pakistani donor in US donates $30 million to victims</a>

"Thank you everyone who donated and helped Mr. James enjoy his retirement, he asked for us to take down the GoFundMe today, He is very appreciative of everyone willing to give up their time to help him out and change his life. You all have shown what can happen when everyone gets together to help others. I think God did this to show that no matter how much evil there is good will always show it’s self! Mr. James thanks you all," he wrote.

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When an 80-year-old man in Texas, United States, had to return to work post retirement because of a hike in the house rent, some students of a school - where he worked as a janitor - came forward to help him and leveraged the power of social media.

When an 80-year-old man in Texas, United States, had to return to work post retirement because of a hike in the house rent, some students of a school - where he worked as a janitor - came forward to help him and leveraged the power of social media. They managed to raise about $270,000 to help James, the elderly janitor, get some much-deserved rest. According to local media, he was forced to come back to resume the daily work routine when the rent was increased to $400 a month. Initially, the students had aimed to raise about $10,000 when the campaign was started on online fundraising website GoFundMe on February 15. "This is our 80-year-old janitor who has rent raised and had to come back to work. Let's help Mr James out," Greyson Thurman, one of the students, wrote on TikTok along with a photo that captured the elderly man in the middle of his daily routine. “Nobody at that age should be working; they should be living the rest of their life," Thurman told KDFW Fox 4, a local news outlet. In a span of 10 days, however, around 8,600 users came forward. The top donor contributed $2,500. Also watch: Trending on WION | Turkey Earthquake: 9-year-old boy donates piggy-bank savings to relief funds × Thanking people for the success of the campaign, Thurman left a note on Friday (February 25) on the GoFundMe page, saying that he was asked by James to close the campaign. Also read: Turkey-Syria quake: Anonymous Pakistani donor in US donates $30 million to victims "Thank you everyone who donated and helped Mr. James enjoy his retirement, he asked for us to take down the GoFundMe today, He is very appreciative of everyone willing to give up their time to help him out and change his life. You all have shown what can happen when everyone gets together to help others. I think God did this to show that no matter how much evil there is good will always show it’s self! Mr. James thanks you all," he wrote. 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 students raise over $270K for janitor's retirement: 'Nobody deserves...'

The US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called for fresh economic sanctions on Moscow on Thursday (February 23) and also said that the world must increase financial support to the war-ravaged Ukraine and help in its fight against Russian aggression.&nbsp;

While speaking in India on the eve of the Russia-Ukraine war anniversary, Yellen said that this is high time for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to "move swiftly" towards a fully financed loan programme for Ukraine.&nbsp;

The ongoing war, which Moscow calls a "special military operation" and an attempt for "de-Nazification" of Ukraine, led to massive crises, affecting millions globally.&nbsp;

During her address, Yellen said, "As President Biden has said, we will stand with Ukraine in its fight – for as long as it takes. Continued, robust support for Ukraine will be a major topic of discussion during my time here in India."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-paks-economic-challenges-jaishankars-basic-industry-is-terror-remark-565178">On Pak's economic challenges, Jaishankar's 'basic industry is terror' remark</a>&nbsp;

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Kyiv on Monday. After the meeting, Shmyhal said that the war-torn nation had sought a $15 billion multi-year IMF loan programme.&nbsp;

Mentioning the financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine sent by the US, Yellen said that the aid totalling $46 billion helped the country to preserve economic and financial stability under "extraordinary circumstances".&nbsp;

She said, "Our economic assistance is making Ukraine’s resistance possible by supporting the home front: funding critical public services and helping keep the government running. In the coming months, we expect to provide around $10 billion in additional economic support for Ukraine."&nbsp;

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<h2>Call for fresh sanctions on Russia&nbsp;</h2>

Yellen told reporters in Bengaluru that fresh sanctions must be imposed on Russia as they are hurting the nation. Her remarks came after the US Treasury Secretary and other G7 finance chiefs discussed further measures to help Ukraine.&nbsp;

Yellen said, "The way I see it, our sanctions have had a very significant negative effect on Russia so far. While by some measures the Russian economy has held up better than might initially have been expected, Russia is now running a significant budget deficit."&nbsp;

Yellen said that the export controls were making it "extremely difficult" for Moscow to replenish its munitions, including repairing 9,000 tanks destroyed in the war.&nbsp;

She said, "We see that it has led to an exodus of some of the most qualified scientists and entrepreneurs in the Russian economy, and an exodus of foreign investment."&nbsp;

"Russia is running down its holdings in its sovereign wealth fund so... the price cap that we have put on Russian oil is clearly substantially reducing Russia's revenues," she added.&nbsp;

On Friday (February 24), the day Russia started the invasion last year, Yellen will be joined by other finance ministers and heads of central banks from the Group of 20 nations for a crucial meeting in India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called for fresh economic sanctions on Moscow on Thursday (February 23) and also said that the world must increase financial support to the war-ravaged Ukraine and help in its fight against Russian aggression.

The US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called for fresh economic sanctions on Moscow on Thursday (February 23) and also said that the world must increase financial support to the war-ravaged Ukraine and help in its fight against Russian aggression. While speaking in India on the eve of the Russia-Ukraine war anniversary, Yellen said that this is high time for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to "move swiftly" towards a fully financed loan programme for Ukraine. The ongoing war, which Moscow calls a "special military operation" and an attempt for "de-Nazification" of Ukraine, led to massive crises, affecting millions globally. During her address, Yellen said, "As President Biden has said, we will stand with Ukraine in its fight – for as long as it takes. Continued, robust support for Ukraine will be a major topic of discussion during my time here in India." ALSO READ | On Pak's economic challenges, Jaishankar's 'basic industry is terror' remark Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Kyiv on Monday. After the meeting, Shmyhal said that the war-torn nation had sought a $15 billion multi-year IMF loan programme. Mentioning the financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine sent by the US, Yellen said that the aid totalling $46 billion helped the country to preserve economic and financial stability under "extraordinary circumstances". She said, "Our economic assistance is making Ukraine’s resistance possible by supporting the home front: funding critical public services and helping keep the government running. In the coming months, we expect to provide around $10 billion in additional economic support for Ukraine." × Call for fresh sanctions on Russia Yellen told reporters in Bengaluru that fresh sanctions must be imposed on Russia as they are hurting the nation. Her remarks came after the US Treasury Secretary and other G7 finance chiefs discussed further measures to help Ukraine. Yellen said, "The way I see it, our sanctions have had a very significant negative effect on Russia so far. While by some measures the Russian economy has held up better than might initially have been expected, Russia is now running a significant budget deficit." Yellen said that the export controls were making it "extremely difficult" for Moscow to replenish its munitions, including repairing 9,000 tanks destroyed in the war. She said, "We see that it has led to an exodus of some of the most qualified scientists and entrepreneurs in the Russian economy, and an exodus of foreign investment." "Russia is running down its holdings in its sovereign wealth fund so... the price cap that we have put on Russian oil is clearly substantially reducing Russia's revenues," she added. On Friday (February 24), the day Russia started the invasion last year, Yellen will be joined by other finance ministers and heads of central banks from the Group of 20 nations for a crucial meeting in India. (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.

Janet Yellen calls for fresh sanctions on Russia as G20 finance chiefs gather in India

Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury. The investigators have been probing claims about Trump's efforts to stay in power after losing the 2020 presidential election. A pro-Trump mob carried out the Capitol Hill riots months after he lost. The 76-year-old business magnate-politician last year yet again announced the bid to run in the elections in 2024.

In November, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith to take over two investigations against the former president. While one of them pertains to his handling of highly sensitive classified documents he retained at his Florida resort after leaving the White House in January 2021, the other one is linked to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election's results. Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, former national security adviser Robert O'Brien and former chief of staff to Trump, Mark Meadows, are among others have been subpoenaed by Smith in his probes, as per reports.

Watch: Georgia grand jury recommended charging multiple people in Trump election probe

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&nbsp;

Pence, who was presiding over a joint session at the US Capitol when Trump supporters stormed into the building, has suggested that he might challenge the summons in the Supreme Court.

&nbsp;

<h2>Where were Ivanka and Kushner on the fateful day of US capitol riots</h2>

 
Ivanka Trump, 41, who was a senior advisor in the Trump administration, was in the Oval Office on January 6, according to the New York Times report, which adds that her father dialed up Pence in a bid to block or delay certification of the Electoral College results documenting Joe Biden win.

&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/top-fox-news-executives-mocked-trumps-election-rigging-claims-court-filing-shows-563011">Top Fox News executives mocked Trump’s election rigging claims, court filing shows</a>

Kushner had returned from a foreign visit that day and he later went to the White House as riots unfolded.

(With agency inputs)

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Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury.

Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury. The investigators have been probing claims about Trump's efforts to stay in power after losing the 2020 presidential election. A pro-Trump mob carried out the Capitol Hill riots months after he lost. The 76-year-old business magnate-politician last year yet again announced the bid to run in the elections in 2024. In November, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith to take over two investigations against the former president. While one of them pertains to his handling of highly sensitive classified documents he retained at his Florida resort after leaving the White House in January 2021, the other one is linked to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election's results. Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, former national security adviser Robert O'Brien and former chief of staff to Trump, Mark Meadows, are among others have been subpoenaed by Smith in his probes, as per reports. Watch: Georgia grand jury recommended charging multiple people in Trump election probe × Pence, who was presiding over a joint session at the US Capitol when Trump supporters stormed into the building, has suggested that he might challenge the summons in the Supreme Court. Where were Ivanka and Kushner on the fateful day of US capitol riots Ivanka Trump, 41, who was a senior advisor in the Trump administration, was in the Oval Office on January 6, according to the New York Times report, which adds that her father dialed up Pence in a bid to block or delay certification of the Electoral College results documenting Joe Biden win. Also read: Top Fox News executives mocked Trump’s election rigging claims, court filing shows Kushner had returned from a foreign visit that day and he later went to the White House as riots unfolded. (With agency inputs) 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.

Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka, son-in-law Jared Kushner summoned in Capitol Hill riots probe: Report

The United States (US) State Department has authorised the extradition of former Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo to face charges of corruption in his home country. Toledo, 76, served as president from 2001 to 2006, and has resided in the US since the end of his presidency. He was arrested in July 2019 on charges of corruption in Peru and has been under US house arrest, a report by the news agency AFP said on Tuesday.

Taking to Twitter on Tuesday (February 21), Peru's prosecutor's office said, "We have been informed that the US State Department authorized the extradition of Alejandro Toledo Manrique for the crimes of collusion and money laundering."

The office added that it was carrying out coordination with "national and foreign" authorities for "the upcoming execution of his extradition." Prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence of 20 years and six months.

Lima has accused Toledo of having received millions of dollars from Odebrecht- a Brazilian construction company- in exchange for public works contracts. According to local media, Toledo admitted that Odebrecht paid at least and he received part of that money but claimed&nbsp;he is innocent of the charges and said&nbsp;that a late businessman, Josef Maiman, was in charge of the business dealings.&nbsp;

The 76-year-old has joined&nbsp;the list of former Peruvian presidents facing legal proceedings or already convicted on corruption charges. The list includes Alberto Fujimori (1990-2000), Ollanta Humala (2011-2016), Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (2016-2018), Martín Vizcarra (2018-2020) and Pedro Castillo (2021-2022).

In August last year, the US Department of Justice said that it would return to Peru about $686,000 seized from Toledo. Federal prosecutors in the New York City borough of Brooklyn said Odebrecht had paid Toledo $25 million in bribes for highway construction contracts, a report by news agency Reuters said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States (US) State Department has authorised the extradition of former Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo to face charges of corruption in his home country.

The United States (US) State Department has authorised the extradition of former Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo to face charges of corruption in his home country. Toledo, 76, served as president from 2001 to 2006, and has resided in the US since the end of his presidency. He was arrested in July 2019 on charges of corruption in Peru and has been under US house arrest, a report by the news agency AFP said on Tuesday. Taking to Twitter on Tuesday (February 21), Peru's prosecutor's office said, "We have been informed that the US State Department authorized the extradition of Alejandro Toledo Manrique for the crimes of collusion and money laundering." The office added that it was carrying out coordination with "national and foreign" authorities for "the upcoming execution of his extradition." Prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence of 20 years and six months. Lima has accused Toledo of having received millions of dollars from Odebrecht- a Brazilian construction company- in exchange for public works contracts. According to local media, Toledo admitted that Odebrecht paid at least and he received part of that money but claimed he is innocent of the charges and said that a late businessman, Josef Maiman, was in charge of the business dealings. The 76-year-old has joined the list of former Peruvian presidents facing legal proceedings or already convicted on corruption charges. The list includes Alberto Fujimori (1990-2000), Ollanta Humala (2011-2016), Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (2016-2018), Martín Vizcarra (2018-2020) and Pedro Castillo (2021-2022). In August last year, the US Department of Justice said that it would return to Peru about $686,000 seized from Toledo. Federal prosecutors in the New York City borough of Brooklyn said Odebrecht had paid Toledo $25 million in bribes for highway construction contracts, a report by news agency Reuters said on Tuesday. (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 authorises extradition of ex-Peru President Alejandro Toledo

In a gut-wrenching reality, a couple in Florida are waiting to bid farewell to their unborn child in a few weeks after the baby is delivered in the wake of the elimination of abortion rights in the country by the US Supreme Court last year.&nbsp;The heartbreaking situation has been created due to the new Florida law which bans abortion after a period of 15 weeks except under special circumstances. Deborah Dorbert has now joined the league of several women who are facing difficulty in getting the necessary abortion procedures after the Supreme Court overturned the rights which were earlier granted by the landmark 1973 Roe vs Wade decision.

According to a report published by The Washington Post, Dorbert and her husband Lee Dorbert, who are expecting their second child, were informed by the doctors that the baby is suffering from fatal fetal abnormality, which is also known as Potter syndrome.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/religious-leaders-sue-to-block-missouris-abortion-ban-554790">Religious leaders' group files lawsuit to block abortion ban in Missouri</a>

However, the couple said that an abortion cannot be performed by the doctors because of their interpretation of a Florida law which was brought into effect after Roe vs Wade was overturned by the Supreme Court.

Potter syndrome is a rare health condition that occurs during the development of the fetus in the uterus. In this case, the fetus has abnormal kidney growth and function, which affects the amount of amniotic fluid which is present around it during pregnancy.

Doctors consider it as a “doubly lethal diagnosis” because babies with malfunctioning kidneys fail to remove deadly toxins from their bodies, which in turn can result in renal failure. Also, the lack of amniotic fluid in a womb results in the birth of a baby without the ability to breathe.

According to the Reducing Fetal and Infant Mortality law in Florida, which the authorities implemented last July, people are prohibited from undergoing abortion after 15 weeks of gestation. As per the new law, few cases will be dealt with an exception and would permit a later abortion “if two physicians certify in writing that the fetus has a fatal fetal abnormality and has not reached viability”.

When the unborn baby of the couple was diagnosed with the syndrome in November, Dorberts was told by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist that parents going through this situation often choose to terminate the pregnancy through preterm labour or surgery.

The doctor had said that he would discuss the case with the health system administrators and consult them regarding the new law, reported the Washington Post.

Eventually, the couple decided to terminate the pregnancy as early as possible because babies born with such syndrome often die before their birth or die because of suffocation within hours or minutes after their delivery.

WATCH | Abortion opponents call for stricter bans at first post-Roe Washington march

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Deborah Dorbert said the specialist had informed her that the termination of pregnancy might be possible but not before 28 and 32 weeks. However, after consultation with the health system administrators, the specialist said that the couple will have to wait till the 37th week of gestation or almost a full term to terminate the pregnancy.

Speaking about the specialist's suggestion to the couple about travelling to other states where they have fewer restrictions on abortion, Dorberts said that they can't bear such travel costs and have left their state very few times.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a gut-wrenching reality, a couple in Florida are waiting to bid farewell to their unborn child in a few weeks after the baby is delivered in the wake of the elimination of abortion rights in the country by the US Supreme Court last year.

In a gut-wrenching reality, a couple in Florida are waiting to bid farewell to their unborn child in a few weeks after the baby is delivered in the wake of the elimination of abortion rights in the country by the US Supreme Court last year. The heartbreaking situation has been created due to the new Florida law which bans abortion after a period of 15 weeks except under special circumstances. Deborah Dorbert has now joined the league of several women who are facing difficulty in getting the necessary abortion procedures after the Supreme Court overturned the rights which were earlier granted by the landmark 1973 Roe vs Wade decision. According to a report published by The Washington Post, Dorbert and her husband Lee Dorbert, who are expecting their second child, were informed by the doctors that the baby is suffering from fatal fetal abnormality, which is also known as Potter syndrome. ALSO READ | Religious leaders' group files lawsuit to block abortion ban in Missouri However, the couple said that an abortion cannot be performed by the doctors because of their interpretation of a Florida law which was brought into effect after Roe vs Wade was overturned by the Supreme Court. Potter syndrome is a rare health condition that occurs during the development of the fetus in the uterus. In this case, the fetus has abnormal kidney growth and function, which affects the amount of amniotic fluid which is present around it during pregnancy. Doctors consider it as a “doubly lethal diagnosis” because babies with malfunctioning kidneys fail to remove deadly toxins from their bodies, which in turn can result in renal failure. Also, the lack of amniotic fluid in a womb results in the birth of a baby without the ability to breathe. According to the Reducing Fetal and Infant Mortality law in Florida, which the authorities implemented last July, people are prohibited from undergoing abortion after 15 weeks of gestation. As per the new law, few cases will be dealt with an exception and would permit a later abortion “if two physicians certify in writing that the fetus has a fatal fetal abnormality and has not reached viability”. When the unborn baby of the couple was diagnosed with the syndrome in November, Dorberts was told by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist that parents going through this situation often choose to terminate the pregnancy through preterm labour or surgery. The doctor had said that he would discuss the case with the health system administrators and consult them regarding the new law, reported the Washington Post. Eventually, the couple decided to terminate the pregnancy as early as possible because babies born with such syndrome often die before their birth or die because of suffocation within hours or minutes after their delivery. WATCH | Abortion opponents call for stricter bans at first post-Roe Washington march Deborah Dorbert said the specialist had informed her that the termination of pregnancy might be possible but not before 28 and 32 weeks. However, after consultation with the health system administrators, the specialist said that the couple will have to wait till the 37th week of gestation or almost a full term to terminate the pregnancy. Speaking about the specialist's suggestion to the couple about travelling to other states where they have fewer restrictions on abortion, Dorberts said that they can't bear such travel costs and have left their state very few times. (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

No abortion rights! Hapless Florida couple to await baby's death after delivery

Amid the ongoing balloon controversy, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held rare talks with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Saturday during which he warned Beijing that the "irresponsible act" of flying a spy balloon into America's airspace must not be repeated.&nbsp;The two leaders' highly anticipated meeting took place on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference as tensions continue to grow between Beijing and Washington. US security officials have been in a state of alarm after they spotted a huge white balloon, which allegedly belonged to China, flying over various secretive nuclear weapons sites of the country after which it was shot down on February 4.

The balloon controversy led to Blinken abruptly cancelling his scheduled trip to China. Beijing has denied having any spy balloons and has continued to claim that the one that strayed into US airspace was just for weather research.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shot-down-hobbyists-balloon-worth-12-using-missile-costing-439000-563331">US shot down hobbyists’ balloon worth $12 using missile costing $439,000?</a>

China has further accused the US of flying its own spy balloon over territories belonging to China, a claim that the US instantly denied.

During their rare meeting on Saturday, Blinken "directly spoke to the unacceptable violation of US sovereignty and international law by (China's) high-altitude surveillance balloon in US territorial airspace, underscoring that this irresponsible act must never again occur", said State Department spokesman Ned Price.

"The secretary made clear the United States will not stand for any violation of our sovereignty," he further stated. Blinken also warned Wang "about the implications and consequences if China provides material support to Russia or assistance with systemic sanctions evasion", said Price.

Blinken was "very direct and candid" during the meeting which continued for an hour, a senior State Department official said. Wang, during the meeting, informed Blinken that the relations between the two countries have suffered serious damages due to the way&nbsp;in which Washington reacted to the balloon.

WATCH | US recovers debris of Chinese balloon; FBI to analyse downed spy balloon

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Wang "made clear China's solemn position on the so-called airship incident", and "urged the US side to change course, acknowledge and repair the damage that its excessive use of force caused to China-US relations," reported Xinhua, China's state news agency.

No apology

While speaking in an interview with NBC, Blinken said that no apology was given by Wang over the balloon spat.

"I told him quite simply that that was unacceptable and can never happen again," said Blinken, as he referred to the violation of the US air space by the Chinese spy balloon. "There was no apology," he added, further stating that no discussion took place with Wang regarding rescheduling the US secretary's trip to China.

Earlier, on Saturday, while addressing a gathering of world leaders in Munich, Wang had said that the reaction of the US after spotting the balloon was "hysterical and absurd".

"To have dispatched an advanced fighter jet to shoot down a balloon with a missile, such behaviour is unbelievable, almost hysterical," Wang said.

"There are so many balloons all over the world, and various countries have them. So, is the United States going to shoot all of them down?" he said.&nbsp;

Wang Yi warned against aiding Russia in Ukraine's invasion

Blinken further warned Wang Yi that China may have to face consequences if it will provide aid to Russia in its war against Ukraine, as he expressed Washington's concerns regarding the supply of weapons by Beijing to Moscow.

Blinken, in an interview which will be aired on NBC News' "Meet the Press with Chuck Todd” on Sunday morning, said that the US is concerned about China supporting Russia by supplying lethal weapons and that he clearly spoke to Wang that “it would have serious consequences in our relationship”.

"There are various kinds of lethal assistance that they are at least contemplating providing, to include weapons," said Blinken, adding that more details will be released by Washington soon.

State Department's senior official, while speaking to reporters, said, "(The) secretary was quite blunt in warning about the implications and consequences of China providing material support to Russia or assisting Russia with systematic sanctions evasion.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid the ongoing balloon controversy, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held rare talks with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Saturday during which he warned Beijing that the "irresponsible act" of flying a spy balloon into America's airspace must not be repeated.

Amid the ongoing balloon controversy, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held rare talks with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Saturday during which he warned Beijing that the "irresponsible act" of flying a spy balloon into America's airspace must not be repeated. The two leaders' highly anticipated meeting took place on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference as tensions continue to grow between Beijing and Washington. US security officials have been in a state of alarm after they spotted a huge white balloon, which allegedly belonged to China, flying over various secretive nuclear weapons sites of the country after which it was shot down on February 4. The balloon controversy led to Blinken abruptly cancelling his scheduled trip to China. Beijing has denied having any spy balloons and has continued to claim that the one that strayed into US airspace was just for weather research. ALSO READ | US shot down hobbyists’ balloon worth $12 using missile costing $439,000? China has further accused the US of flying its own spy balloon over territories belonging to China, a claim that the US instantly denied. During their rare meeting on Saturday, Blinken "directly spoke to the unacceptable violation of US sovereignty and international law by (China's) high-altitude surveillance balloon in US territorial airspace, underscoring that this irresponsible act must never again occur", said State Department spokesman Ned Price. "The secretary made clear the United States will not stand for any violation of our sovereignty," he further stated. Blinken also warned Wang "about the implications and consequences if China provides material support to Russia or assistance with systemic sanctions evasion", said Price. Blinken was "very direct and candid" during the meeting which continued for an hour, a senior State Department official said. Wang, during the meeting, informed Blinken that the relations between the two countries have suffered serious damages due to the way in which Washington reacted to the balloon. WATCH | US recovers debris of Chinese balloon; FBI to analyse downed spy balloon Wang "made clear China's solemn position on the so-called airship incident", and "urged the US side to change course, acknowledge and repair the damage that its excessive use of force caused to China-US relations," reported Xinhua, China's state news agency. No apology While speaking in an interview with NBC, Blinken said that no apology was given by Wang over the balloon spat. "I told him quite simply that that was unacceptable and can never happen again," said Blinken, as he referred to the violation of the US air space by the Chinese spy balloon. "There was no apology," he added, further stating that no discussion took place with Wang regarding rescheduling the US secretary's trip to China. Earlier, on Saturday, while addressing a gathering of world leaders in Munich, Wang had said that the reaction of the US after spotting the balloon was "hysterical and absurd". "To have dispatched an advanced fighter jet to shoot down a balloon with a missile, such behaviour is unbelievable, almost hysterical," Wang said. "There are so many balloons all over the world, and various countries have them. So, is the United States going to shoot all of them down?" he said. Wang Yi warned against aiding Russia in Ukraine's invasion Blinken further warned Wang Yi that China may have to face consequences if it will provide aid to Russia in its war against Ukraine, as he expressed Washington's concerns regarding the supply of weapons by Beijing to Moscow. Blinken, in an interview which will be aired on NBC News' "Meet the Press with Chuck Todd” on Sunday morning, said that the US is concerned about China supporting Russia by supplying lethal weapons and that he clearly spoke to Wang that “it would have serious consequences in our relationship”. "There are various kinds of lethal assistance that they are at least contemplating providing, to include weapons," said Blinken, adding that more details will be released by Washington soon. State Department's senior official, while speaking to reporters, said, "(The) secretary was quite blunt in warning about the implications and consequences of China providing material support to Russia or assisting Russia with systematic sanctions evasion.” (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

Blinken warns China’s Wang Yi that spy balloon incident ‘must never occur again’

Breaking the balloon of hysteria created around Chinese spy devices flying over the United States, a hobby group in Illinois has claimed that probably it was just a $12 inflatable launched by them.

If the reports are to be believed, the United States Air Force (USAF) used a missile worth $439,000 to shoot down the flying balloon which was just a $12 hobby balloon and not the suspected Chinese spy device.

Northern Illinois Balloon Brigade, a hobbyist group in the US, has reportedly claimed that on February 11, one of its pico balloons went “missing in action” in Alaska, coincidentally when the suspected balloon was shot down by the USAF F-22 fighter jet using a Sidewinder missile, costing $400,000, in the vicinity of Yukon territory in Canada.

ALSO READ | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/biden-to-talk-to-xi-in-wake-of-balloon-shoot-down-by-us-562889">US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy</a>

A pico balloon has trackers installed in it for measuring humidity, temperature, pressure or wind currents.

NIBBB said that the last location reported by their 'K9YO' balloon was near the coast of southwest Alaska at around 1 am GMT on Saturday (February 11)

US ends search for debris of downed Chinese balloon

Meanwhile, the search for debris of the alleged Chinese surveillance balloon, which was shot down earlier, along with the two unidentified objects which were downed on Lake Huron and near Alaska was ended by the United States, said the military's Northern Command on Friday.

"Recovery operations concluded February 16 off the coast of South Carolina, after US Navy assets assigned to US Northern Command successfully located and retrieved debris from the high-altitude PRC surveillance balloon," NORTHCOM's statement read, as it referred to China.

WATCH | This World | Is China sending spy balloons to India?

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"Final pieces of debris are being transferred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory in Virginia for counterintelligence exploitation," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Breaking the balloon of hysteria created around Chinese spy devices flying over the United States, a hobby group in Illinois has claimed that probably it was just a $12 inflatable launched by them.

Breaking the balloon of hysteria created around Chinese spy devices flying over the United States, a hobby group in Illinois has claimed that probably it was just a $12 inflatable launched by them. If the reports are to be believed, the United States Air Force (USAF) used a missile worth $439,000 to shoot down the flying balloon which was just a $12 hobby balloon and not the suspected Chinese spy device. Northern Illinois Balloon Brigade, a hobbyist group in the US, has reportedly claimed that on February 11, one of its pico balloons went “missing in action” in Alaska, coincidentally when the suspected balloon was shot down by the USAF F-22 fighter jet using a Sidewinder missile, costing $400,000, in the vicinity of Yukon territory in Canada. ALSO READ | US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy A pico balloon has trackers installed in it for measuring humidity, temperature, pressure or wind currents. NIBBB said that the last location reported by their 'K9YO' balloon was near the coast of southwest Alaska at around 1 am GMT on Saturday (February 11) US ends search for debris of downed Chinese balloon Meanwhile, the search for debris of the alleged Chinese surveillance balloon, which was shot down earlier, along with the two unidentified objects which were downed on Lake Huron and near Alaska was ended by the United States, said the military's Northern Command on Friday. "Recovery operations concluded February 16 off the coast of South Carolina, after US Navy assets assigned to US Northern Command successfully located and retrieved debris from the high-altitude PRC surveillance balloon," NORTHCOM's statement read, as it referred to China. WATCH | This World | Is China sending spy balloons to India? "Final pieces of debris are being transferred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory in Virginia for counterintelligence exploitation," it added. (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 shot down hobbyists’ balloon worth $12 using missile costing $439,000?

United States President Joe Biden will not be entering Ukraine during a visit to Poland next week to mark the Russia-Ukraine war's one-year anniversary.

On Friday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that Biden will visit Warsaw, Poland, where he had delivered a speech last year at the Royal Castle of the city, extending his support to the defence efforts of Ukraine.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-talk-to-xi-in-wake-of-balloon-shoot-down-by-us-562889">US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy</a>

Jean-Pierre added that the president will hold talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and will also meet leaders of NATO “eastern flank” nations to “reaffirm the United States' unwavering support for the security of the alliance”. Biden will also deliver a speech to commemorate the war's first anniversary.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden will discuss the bilateral relationship between US and Poland in his meeting with Duda as well as the two nations' “collective efforts to support Ukraine and to bolster Nato’s deterrence”.

“The two leaders will discuss Poland's important logistical role ... in helping us facilitate deliveries of military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine from not only the United States but from our allies and partners,” he stated.

WATCH | U.S. President Joe Biden defends taking down aerial objects

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He further stated that Biden will also thank Poland for allowing US troops to station there since the time the war started. When asked if Biden would cross into Ukraine while travelling to Poland, Kirby replied: “No”.

Although the White House has denied any plans for the president to visit Ukraine when he visits the region next week, Kyiv has been visited by other NATO leaders since the war began last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden will not be entering Ukraine during a visit to Poland next week to mark the Russia-Ukraine war's one-year anniversary. On Friday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that Biden will visit Warsaw, Poland, where he had delivered a speech last year at the Royal Castle of the city, extending his support to the defence efforts of Ukraine.

United States President Joe Biden will not be entering Ukraine during a visit to Poland next week to mark the Russia-Ukraine war's one-year anniversary. On Friday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that Biden will visit Warsaw, Poland, where he had delivered a speech last year at the Royal Castle of the city, extending his support to the defence efforts of Ukraine. ALSO READ | US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy Jean-Pierre added that the president will hold talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and will also meet leaders of NATO “eastern flank” nations to “reaffirm the United States' unwavering support for the security of the alliance”. Biden will also deliver a speech to commemorate the war's first anniversary. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden will discuss the bilateral relationship between US and Poland in his meeting with Duda as well as the two nations' “collective efforts to support Ukraine and to bolster Nato’s deterrence”. “The two leaders will discuss Poland's important logistical role ... in helping us facilitate deliveries of military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine from not only the United States but from our allies and partners,” he stated. WATCH | U.S. President Joe Biden defends taking down aerial objects He further stated that Biden will also thank Poland for allowing US troops to station there since the time the war started. When asked if Biden would cross into Ukraine while travelling to Poland, Kirby replied: “No”. Although the White House has denied any plans for the president to visit Ukraine when he visits the region next week, Kyiv has been visited by other NATO leaders since the war began last year. (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 President Biden to not cross into Ukraine during his Poland visit

China on Saturday (February 18) slammed the United States for the recent spy balloon saga, which escalated tensions between the two countries. A Chinese balloon was spotted in the US airspace earlier this month which was shot down by US fighter jets. The US also shot down "unidentified objects" at two other different locations afterwards.&nbsp;

At the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-munich-security-conference-china-blasts-us-over-spy-balloon-saga-563413">Munich Security Conference</a>, China's top diplomat Wang Yi said that the way American authorities reacted was "unimaginable" and "hysterical" and an "absurd" act that had violated international norms.&nbsp;

Beijing previously said that the "civilian airship" was used for research and must have drifted away and entered the US airspace.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-conference-rishi-sunak-says-uk-to-provide-ukraine-with-long-range-weapons-calls-for-new-nato-charter-563450">Munich Conference: Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter</a>&nbsp;

While addressing the security conference, Wang said, "There are so many balloons all over the world, so is the United States going to shoot all of them down?"&nbsp;

Wang is the director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.&nbsp;

The balloon episode&nbsp;sparked diplomatic tensions and posed an immediate impact on US-China ties, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponing a planned visit to Beijing.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US Vice President Kamala Harris addresses Munich Security Conference&nbsp;

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At a White House press conference, US President Joe Biden had said that if any aerial object is seen as a threat to the nation, he won't hesitate to bring it down. Biden also confirmed that the other objects that were shot down last week weren't related to China.

Wang was asked about the prospects of engaging with US delegates present at the conference regarding the issue and also attempting to restore Sino-US dialogue to a more normal track.&nbsp;

He said, "We ask the U.S. to show its sincerity and correct its mistakes, face up and resolve this incident, which has damaged Sino-US relations."&nbsp;

"We hope the U.S. could pursue a pragmatic and positive policy towards China, and work with China to push Sino-U.S. relations back to the track of healthy development," the Chinese diplomat added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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China on Saturday (February 18) slammed the United States for the recent spy balloon saga, which escalated tensions between the two countries. A Chinese balloon was spotted in the US airspace earlier this month which was shot down by US fighter jets.

China on Saturday (February 18) slammed the United States for the recent spy balloon saga, which escalated tensions between the two countries. A Chinese balloon was spotted in the US airspace earlier this month which was shot down by US fighter jets. The US also shot down "unidentified objects" at two other different locations afterwards. At the Munich Security Conference, China's top diplomat Wang Yi said that the way American authorities reacted was "unimaginable" and "hysterical" and an "absurd" act that had violated international norms. Beijing previously said that the "civilian airship" was used for research and must have drifted away and entered the US airspace. ALSO READ | Munich Conference: Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter While addressing the security conference, Wang said, "There are so many balloons all over the world, so is the United States going to shoot all of them down?" Wang is the director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. The balloon episode sparked diplomatic tensions and posed an immediate impact on US-China ties, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponing a planned visit to Beijing. WATCH | US Vice President Kamala Harris addresses Munich Security Conference × At a White House press conference, US President Joe Biden had said that if any aerial object is seen as a threat to the nation, he won't hesitate to bring it down. Biden also confirmed that the other objects that were shot down last week weren't related to China. Wang was asked about the prospects of engaging with US delegates present at the conference regarding the issue and also attempting to restore Sino-US dialogue to a more normal track. He said, "We ask the U.S. to show its sincerity and correct its mistakes, face up and resolve this incident, which has damaged Sino-US relations." "We hope the U.S. could pursue a pragmatic and positive policy towards China, and work with China to push Sino-U.S. relations back to the track of healthy development," the Chinese diplomat added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China slams America’s ‘hysterical’ and ‘unimaginable’ response over balloon incident

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

White House spokesman John Kirby said that more than 30,000 mercenaries, who were fighting under the Wagner Group, have lost their lives or have been injured since Russia waged war against Ukraine.&nbsp;Kirby added that significant losses have been borne by the group in recent weeks, with around 9,000 fighters losing their lives in action. He added that people were heavily recruited by Wagner from Russian prisons and the most casualties were untrained convicts.

Even after so many casualties, Wagner claims to have made gains near the city of Bakhmut. Around the city, the troops have engaged in some of the fiercest fighting of the war, with Wagner mercenaries getting heavily engaged in efforts of Russia to capture the city, as per media reports.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/village-near-bakhmut-captured-claims-wagner-chief-563249">Village near Bakhmut captured, claims Wagner chief</a>

Ukrainian troops claim that Russia has been sending Wagner fighters in large numbers to attack and an army spokesperson of Ukraine shared that Moscow did not evacuate the dead and wounded soldiers, because of which they had "places where their bodies are just piled up".

Kirby said further advances by Russia can prove difficult considering that the gains made by it&nbsp;in Bakhmut came at a "devastating cost that is not sustainable” and took months to achieve. The city's military significance was also questioned by Kirby.

"It is possible that they may end up being successful in Bakhmut, but it will prove of no real worth to them because it is of no real strategic value," he said.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Wagner Group says, 'Two years till Donetsk capture'

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According to the estimates of UK intelligence officials, the Russian regular forces along with the Wagner troops may have suffered around 175,000-200,000 casualties, which includes 40,000-60,000 deaths.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. White House spokesman John Kirby said that more than 30,000 mercenaries, who were fighting under the Wagner Group, have lost their lives or have been injured since Russia waged war against Ukraine. Kirby added that significant losses have been borne by the group in recent weeks, with around 9,000 fighters losing their lives in action. He added that people were heavily recruited by Wagner from Russian prisons and the most casualties were untrained convicts. Even after so many casualties, Wagner claims to have made gains near the city of Bakhmut. Around the city, the troops have engaged in some of the fiercest fighting of the war, with Wagner mercenaries getting heavily engaged in efforts of Russia to capture the city, as per media reports. ALSO READ | Village near Bakhmut captured, claims Wagner chief Ukrainian troops claim that Russia has been sending Wagner fighters in large numbers to attack and an army spokesperson of Ukraine shared that Moscow did not evacuate the dead and wounded soldiers, because of which they had "places where their bodies are just piled up". Kirby said further advances by Russia can prove difficult considering that the gains made by it in Bakhmut came at a "devastating cost that is not sustainable” and took months to achieve. The city's military significance was also questioned by Kirby. "It is possible that they may end up being successful in Bakhmut, but it will prove of no real worth to them because it is of no real strategic value," he said. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Wagner Group says, 'Two years till Donetsk capture' According to the estimates of UK intelligence officials, the Russian regular forces along with the Wagner troops may have suffered around 175,000-200,000 casualties, which includes 40,000-60,000 deaths. (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

More than 30,000 Wagner fighters died or suffered injuries in Ukraine war, claims US

A group co-chaired by former UK foreign secretary David Miliband highlights that the ranking of the United States is surprisingly poor in a new ranking system charting abuses of power by nations.&nbsp;

The report—The Atlas of Impunity—was published on Thursday. The report is a quantitative assessment of this holistic definition of impunity, which is measured by independent indicators across five sites in society.&nbsp;

The report has scored and subsequently ranked the level of impunity in 163 countries and provides partial, indicative scoring for another 34 nations.&nbsp;

The parameters of scoring include governance, human rights, conflict and violence, economic exploitation, and environmental degradation.&nbsp;

According to the report, America's rank lies close to the median of 163 countries in the Index of Impunity. The poor score reflects the record of discrimination, inequality and access to democracy.&nbsp;

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The Atlas of Impunity is here- the first comprehensive index to track impunity worldwide. Proud to have worked on this in my personal capacity alongside <a href="https://twitter.com/EurasiaGroup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eurasiagroup</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ChicagoCouncil?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chicagocouncil</a> and launching at <a href="https://twitter.com/MunSecConf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Munsecconf</a>. Read more at <a href="https://t.co/na6Mrkdx6F">https://t.co/na6Mrkdx6F</a>
— David Miliband (@DMiliband) <a href="https://twitter.com/DMiliband/status/1626575468982927360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The ranking of the US is worse on impunity than Hungary and Singapore as its arms exports and record has emerged as an even bigger negative factor.&nbsp;

"Impunity is the exercise of power without accountability, which becomes, in its starkest form, the commission of crimes without punishment," the report read.&nbsp;

"In a phrase, impunity is the idea that “the law is for suckers,” a notion that human rights leaders fear is on the rise in political institutions around the world," it added.&nbsp;

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A group co-chaired by former UK foreign secretary David Miliband highlights that the ranking of the United States is surprisingly poor in a new ranking system charting abuses of power by nations.

A group co-chaired by former UK foreign secretary David Miliband highlights that the ranking of the United States is surprisingly poor in a new ranking system charting abuses of power by nations. The report—The Atlas of Impunity—was published on Thursday. The report is a quantitative assessment of this holistic definition of impunity, which is measured by independent indicators across five sites in society. The report has scored and subsequently ranked the level of impunity in 163 countries and provides partial, indicative scoring for another 34 nations. The parameters of scoring include governance, human rights, conflict and violence, economic exploitation, and environmental degradation. According to the report, America's rank lies close to the median of 163 countries in the Index of Impunity. The poor score reflects the record of discrimination, inequality and access to democracy. The Atlas of Impunity is here- the first comprehensive index to track impunity worldwide. Proud to have worked on this in my personal capacity alongside @Eurasiagroup and @chicagocouncil and launching at @Munsecconf. Read more at https://t.co/na6Mrkdx6F — David Miliband (@DMiliband) February 17, 2023 × The ranking of the US is worse on impunity than Hungary and Singapore as its arms exports and record has emerged as an even bigger negative factor. "Impunity is the exercise of power without accountability, which becomes, in its starkest form, the commission of crimes without punishment," the report read. "In a phrase, impunity is the idea that “the law is for suckers,” a notion that human rights leaders fear is on the rise in political institutions around the world," it added. 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 scores poor in new ranking system that highlights abuses of power by nations

A slaughterhouse cleaning firm in the United States illegally employed over 100 children at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states where they used caustic chemicals to clean razor-sharp saws, and other high-risk equipment, the US Department of Labour said on Friday (February 17). Packers Sanitation Services Inc. has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties for violating rules. A total of 102 minors – between the age of 13 and 17 years – were employed by the firm in hazardous occupations. They also worked in overnight shifts. At least three minors suffered injuries at work, federal investigators said.

"One of the nation’s largest food safety sanitation services providers has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties after the US Department of Labour’s Wage and Hour Division found the company employed at least 102 children – from 13 to 17 years of age – in hazardous occupations and had them working overnight shifts at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states," read an official statement by the government department. The firm provides cleaning services under contract to some of the largest meat and poultry producers in the US. The federal investigation was carried out between August and December last year.&nbsp;

Solicitor of Labour Seema Nanda, responding to the probe, said: “The Department of Labour made it absolutely clear that violations of child labour laws will not be tolerated. No child should ever be subject to the conditions found in this investigation. The courts have upheld the department’s rightful authority to execute federal court-approved search warrants and compelled this employer to change their hiring practices to ensure compliance with the law."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/korean-auto-giant-hyundai-investigating-child-labour-in-its-us-supply-chain-527021">Korean auto giant Hyundai investigating child labour violations in its US supply chain</a>

"Let this case be a powerful reminder that all workers in the United States are entitled to the protections of the Fair Labour Standards Act and that an employer who violates wage laws will be held accountable," she further added.&nbsp; 
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A slaughterhouse cleaning firm in the United States illegally employed over 100 children at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states where they used caustic chemicals to clean razor-sharp saws, and other high-risk equipment, the US Department of Labour said on Friday (February 17).

A slaughterhouse cleaning firm in the United States illegally employed over 100 children at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states where they used caustic chemicals to clean razor-sharp saws, and other high-risk equipment, the US Department of Labour said on Friday (February 17). Packers Sanitation Services Inc. has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties for violating rules. A total of 102 minors – between the age of 13 and 17 years – were employed by the firm in hazardous occupations. They also worked in overnight shifts. At least three minors suffered injuries at work, federal investigators said. "One of the nation’s largest food safety sanitation services providers has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties after the US Department of Labour’s Wage and Hour Division found the company employed at least 102 children – from 13 to 17 years of age – in hazardous occupations and had them working overnight shifts at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states," read an official statement by the government department. The firm provides cleaning services under contract to some of the largest meat and poultry producers in the US. The federal investigation was carried out between August and December last year. Solicitor of Labour Seema Nanda, responding to the probe, said: “The Department of Labour made it absolutely clear that violations of child labour laws will not be tolerated. No child should ever be subject to the conditions found in this investigation. The courts have upheld the department’s rightful authority to execute federal court-approved search warrants and compelled this employer to change their hiring practices to ensure compliance with the law." Also read: Korean auto giant Hyundai investigating child labour violations in its US supply chain "Let this case be a powerful reminder that all workers in the United States are entitled to the protections of the Fair Labour Standards Act and that an employer who violates wage laws will be held accountable," she further added. 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.

Over 100 minors illegally employed in hazardous conditions, US firm fined $1.5 million

A top Pentagon official has arrived in Taiwan, reports suggested on Friday (February 17). The visit by Michael Chase, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Michael Chase, assumes significance when Beijing's ties with Washington have shown no signs of improvement. The balloon row is the latest to sour the relations of the two countries.&nbsp;

In a report by news agency Reuters, a Pentagon spokesperson refused to comment on the visit but referred to the threat faced by Taiwan because of China. "We don't have a comment on specific operations.. but I would highlight that our support for, and defence relationship with, Taiwan remains aligned against the current threat posed by the People's Republic of China," the report quoted the spokesperson as saying.&nbsp;

Last year, the visit to Taiwan by Nancy Pelosi - the then House Speaker - had prompted an angry response from Beijing. Quoting Taiwan’s Defence Minister, Chiu Kuo-cheng, the British news platform the Guardian reported he did not confirm the visit. “If any team that is friendly to us want to visit, they will let us know. Suggestions that are beneficial to Taiwan’s defence operations are very good, and they are all good opportunities," he said.&nbsp;

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The visit also comes at a time when a group of Chinese officials are in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei. Their arrival was reportedly followed by protests from pro-Independence activists.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanctions-imposed-by-china-on-lockheed-martin-and-raytheon-over-taiwan-arms-sales-562840">Sanctions imposed by China on Lockheed Martin and Raytheon over Taiwan arms sales</a>

Earlier this week, the Taiwanese government allowed the trip of six Chinese officials, lead by Liu Xiaodong, deputy head of the Shanghai office of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, to attend the Lantern Festival in Taipei, at the invitation of the city government.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)&nbsp;

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A top Pentagon official has arrived in Taiwan, reports suggested on Friday (February 17). The visit by Michael Chase, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Michael Chase, assumes significance when Beijing's ties with Washington have shown no signs of improvement.

A top Pentagon official has arrived in Taiwan, reports suggested on Friday (February 17). The visit by Michael Chase, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Michael Chase, assumes significance when Beijing's ties with Washington have shown no signs of improvement. The balloon row is the latest to sour the relations of the two countries. In a report by news agency Reuters, a Pentagon spokesperson refused to comment on the visit but referred to the threat faced by Taiwan because of China. "We don't have a comment on specific operations.. but I would highlight that our support for, and defence relationship with, Taiwan remains aligned against the current threat posed by the People's Republic of China," the report quoted the spokesperson as saying. Last year, the visit to Taiwan by Nancy Pelosi - the then House Speaker - had prompted an angry response from Beijing. Quoting Taiwan’s Defence Minister, Chiu Kuo-cheng, the British news platform the Guardian reported he did not confirm the visit. “If any team that is friendly to us want to visit, they will let us know. Suggestions that are beneficial to Taiwan’s defence operations are very good, and they are all good opportunities," he said. × The visit also comes at a time when a group of Chinese officials are in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei. Their arrival was reportedly followed by protests from pro-Independence activists. Also read: Sanctions imposed by China on Lockheed Martin and Raytheon over Taiwan arms sales Earlier this week, the Taiwanese government allowed the trip of six Chinese officials, lead by Liu Xiaodong, deputy head of the Shanghai office of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, to attend the Lantern Festival in Taipei, at the invitation of the city government. (With agency inputs) 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.

Top Pentagon official in Taiwan amid stir against visit by Chinese group: Reports

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday said that he will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in the wake of the shooting down of a Chinese balloon by the US Air Force earlier this month, which Washington claimed to be a high-tech Chinese spy device.

"I expect to be speaking with President Xi and... we're going to get to the bottom of this," Biden said, in the most extensive public remark made by him since the incident that took place on February 4.

While emphasising that the United States is "not looking for a new Cold War”, Biden said, "I make no apologies for taking down that balloon." "We'll always act to protect the interests of the American people and the security of the American people,” he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-charges-us-of-flowing-balloons-over-xinjiang-tibet-says-will-adopt-countermeasures-562500">Destroyed Chinese balloon aimed for Guam, Hawaii, claims US official</a>

The United States has remained in a state of alarm since a huge white Chinese balloon was spotted flying over various secret nuclear weapons sites. China has claimed that the balloon is just a stray weather research craft, however, US officials claim that they have conclusive evidence that the balloon was a spy device.

The shooting down of the balloon created a diplomatic rift between the two countries with Secretary of State Antony Blinken's China visit getting abruptly cancelled. Beijing called Washington's actions an overreaction and claimed that there have been numerous incidents of US balloons flying over Chinese territory.

"We don't yet know exactly what these three objects were. Nothing right now suggests they're related to China's spy balloon programme or... surveillance vehicles from any other countries. The intelligence community's current assessment is that these three objects are most likely balloons tied to private companies" or research projects, said Biden.

WATCH | WION Speed News: China calls on U.S. to manage differences over spy balloon

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However, "if any object presents a threat to the safety, security (of) the American people I will take it down," he added.

Resetting relations with China has become a top priority of Biden, which Washinton calls its biggest competitor. Biden and Xi have earlier expressed their wish to establish "guard rails" to avoid their superpower competition from becoming a conflict.

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday had said that the two countries have not "stopped communicating and trying to understand each other".

In the last two weeks, Biden added that his government has been "continuing to engage with China". "We seek competition, not conflict. This episode underscores the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between our diplomats and our military professionals,” he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden on Thursday said that he will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in the wake of the shooting down of a Chinese balloon by the US Air Force earlier this month, which Washington claimed to be a high-tech Chinese spy device.

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday said that he will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in the wake of the shooting down of a Chinese balloon by the US Air Force earlier this month, which Washington claimed to be a high-tech Chinese spy device. "I expect to be speaking with President Xi and... we're going to get to the bottom of this," Biden said, in the most extensive public remark made by him since the incident that took place on February 4. While emphasising that the United States is "not looking for a new Cold War”, Biden said, "I make no apologies for taking down that balloon." "We'll always act to protect the interests of the American people and the security of the American people,” he added. ALSO READ | Destroyed Chinese balloon aimed for Guam, Hawaii, claims US official The United States has remained in a state of alarm since a huge white Chinese balloon was spotted flying over various secret nuclear weapons sites. China has claimed that the balloon is just a stray weather research craft, however, US officials claim that they have conclusive evidence that the balloon was a spy device. The shooting down of the balloon created a diplomatic rift between the two countries with Secretary of State Antony Blinken's China visit getting abruptly cancelled. Beijing called Washington's actions an overreaction and claimed that there have been numerous incidents of US balloons flying over Chinese territory. "We don't yet know exactly what these three objects were. Nothing right now suggests they're related to China's spy balloon programme or... surveillance vehicles from any other countries. The intelligence community's current assessment is that these three objects are most likely balloons tied to private companies" or research projects, said Biden. WATCH | WION Speed News: China calls on U.S. to manage differences over spy balloon However, "if any object presents a threat to the safety, security (of) the American people I will take it down," he added. Resetting relations with China has become a top priority of Biden, which Washinton calls its biggest competitor. Biden and Xi have earlier expressed their wish to establish "guard rails" to avoid their superpower competition from becoming a conflict. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday had said that the two countries have not "stopped communicating and trying to understand each other". In the last two weeks, Biden added that his government has been "continuing to engage with China". "We seek competition, not conflict. This episode underscores the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between our diplomats and our military professionals,” he said. (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 President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy

While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her. Karen Decker, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, has now apologised for the post in which she referred to the "Black Girl Magic" movement. "Are Afghans familiar with Black Girl Magic and the movement it inspired? Do Afghan girls need a similar movement? What about Afghan Women?' 'Teach me, ready to learn. @Beyonce @lizzo @ReginaKing, (sic)," she had tweeted.&nbsp;

Her suggestion for Afghan women to draw inspiration from Beyonce and others even as the Taliban administration continues to shut them out of schools and workplaces did not go well. "Sometimes our best intentions go awry because we haven’t listened enough or don’t truly understand others’ lived experience. My efforts to celebrate courageous African Americans this month fall in that category. I apologize to any and all who I may have offended or hurt. (sic)," she wrote on Twitter as the apology followed the barrage of criticism. Violation of rights of the women in the South Asian country has been a matter of concern ever since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. &nbsp;The United Nations and world leaders have been vocal about women and girls not being treated as equals in the country despite the Taliban's assurance of change.&nbsp;

Outpouring of anger

Meanwhile, one of the many posts that were put out amid anger against Karen's tweet were: "Allow me to introduce you to America’s idiot of the day #USAmbKabul Karen Decker. &nbsp;Apparently, all we should know is that Abraham Lincoln “did some stuff”. Ms Decker, we salute you, a true moron through and through. (sic)."&nbsp;

The Black Girl Movement a couple of years ago was meant to spark conversation on the social identity of women of colour. &nbsp;People on social media questioned the comparison of the two situations by the diplomat. A user posted screenshots of the now-deleted tweets, saying: "Karen Decker, the Biden Admin’s Chargés d'affaires to Taliban-led Afghanistan, has deleted these bizarre tweets. (sic)" &nbsp;

"This Tweet is too weird, too personal, to have resulted from some kind of collective effort at DEI. This is a window into the actual mind of Karen Decker. It's remarkable. A rare document of how this all comes together in the strange minds of the people who rule us. (sic)," read another post that gave an idea of social media sentiments.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stands-with-afghanistan-in-time-of-need-says-nsa-ajit-doval-at-moscow-talks-560135">India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks</a> 
&nbsp;

This was not the only tweet by the US diplomat that drew anger. On former US president Abraham Lincoln's birthday, she wrote on Twitter: "Abe Lincoln born today in 1809. He did some stuff. It's also NAACP day, home of grassroots activism, inclusive communities and making sure Black voices are heard. What does that look like for Afghans struggling to be heard? #BlackHistoryMonth @NAACP @LincolnsCottage. (sic)"&nbsp;

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While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her.

While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her. Karen Decker, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, has now apologised for the post in which she referred to the "Black Girl Magic" movement. "Are Afghans familiar with Black Girl Magic and the movement it inspired? Do Afghan girls need a similar movement? What about Afghan Women?' 'Teach me, ready to learn. @Beyonce @lizzo @ReginaKing, (sic)," she had tweeted. Her suggestion for Afghan women to draw inspiration from Beyonce and others even as the Taliban administration continues to shut them out of schools and workplaces did not go well. "Sometimes our best intentions go awry because we haven’t listened enough or don’t truly understand others’ lived experience. My efforts to celebrate courageous African Americans this month fall in that category. I apologize to any and all who I may have offended or hurt. (sic)," she wrote on Twitter as the apology followed the barrage of criticism. Violation of rights of the women in the South Asian country has been a matter of concern ever since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The United Nations and world leaders have been vocal about women and girls not being treated as equals in the country despite the Taliban's assurance of change. Outpouring of anger Meanwhile, one of the many posts that were put out amid anger against Karen's tweet were: "Allow me to introduce you to America’s idiot of the day #USAmbKabul Karen Decker. Apparently, all we should know is that Abraham Lincoln “did some stuff”. Ms Decker, we salute you, a true moron through and through. (sic)." The Black Girl Movement a couple of years ago was meant to spark conversation on the social identity of women of colour. People on social media questioned the comparison of the two situations by the diplomat. A user posted screenshots of the now-deleted tweets, saying: "Karen Decker, the Biden Admin’s Chargés d'affaires to Taliban-led Afghanistan, has deleted these bizarre tweets. (sic)" "This Tweet is too weird, too personal, to have resulted from some kind of collective effort at DEI. This is a window into the actual mind of Karen Decker. It's remarkable. A rare document of how this all comes together in the strange minds of the people who rule us. (sic)," read another post that gave an idea of social media sentiments. Also read: India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks This was not the only tweet by the US diplomat that drew anger. On former US president Abraham Lincoln's birthday, she wrote on Twitter: "Abe Lincoln born today in 1809. He did some stuff. It's also NAACP day, home of grassroots activism, inclusive communities and making sure Black voices are heard. What does that look like for Afghans struggling to be heard? #BlackHistoryMonth @NAACP @LincolnsCottage. (sic)" 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.

'Best intentions go awry...': US envoy's apology over tweet on Afghan women

Two United States (US) Senators- Jeff Merkley (Democratic Senator from Oregon) and Bill Hagerty (Republican Senator from Tennessee) teamed up to introduce a bipartisan Senate resolution reaffirming America's recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China's military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

In a statement on Thursday (February 16), Senator Merkley said that US's values supporting freedom and a rules-based order must be at the centre of all its actions and relationships around the world- especially as the Chinese government pushes an alternative vision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-talk-to-xi-in-wake-of-balloon-shoot-down-by-us-562889">US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy</a>

“This resolution makes clear that the United States views the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India—not the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—and commits the US to deepening support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners and donors,” Merkley added.&nbsp;

Senator Bill Hagerty, meanwhile, said on Thursday that at a time when China continued to pose grave and gathering threats to the free and open Indo-Pacific, it was critical for the US to "stand shoulder-to-shoulder" with its partners in the region, especially India.

"This bipartisan resolution expresses the Senate’s support for unequivocally recognizing the state of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China’s military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, and further enhancing the US-India strategic partnership and the Quad in support of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific," Senator Hagerty added.&nbsp;

Thursday's resolution comes after Indian and Chinese troops engaged in a skirmish in Arunachal Pradesh along the LAC in December 2022, the biggest clash in the Eastern Sector in six years. The statement by Senator Merkley said the resolution reaffirmed that the US recognised the McMahon Line as the international boundary between China and Arunachal Pradesh, and pushes back against Beijing's claims that Arunachal is PRC&nbsp;territory, which is a part of the PRC’s increasingly aggressive and expansionist policies.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanctions-imposed-by-china-on-lockheed-martin-and-raytheon-over-taiwan-arms-sales-562840">Sanctions imposed by China on Lockheed Martin and Raytheon over Taiwan arms sales</a>

"The Senators’ resolution condemns additional PRC provocations, including the People’s Republic of China’s use of military force to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, construction of villages in contested areas, publication of maps with Mandarin-language names for cities and feature in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, and expansion of PRC territorial claims in Bhutan," the statement added.&nbsp;

The resolution also commended the Indian government for taking steps to defend itself from China's aggression and security threats. These efforts included securing &nbsp;India’s telecommunications infrastructure; examining its procurement processes and supply chains and expanding cooperation with Taiwan in public health and other sectors.&nbsp; 
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Two United States (US) Senators- Jeff Merkley (Democratic Senator from Oregon) and Bill Hagerty (Republican Senator from Tennessee) teamed up to introduce a bipartisan Senate resolution reaffirming America's recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China's military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Two United States (US) Senators- Jeff Merkley (Democratic Senator from Oregon) and Bill Hagerty (Republican Senator from Tennessee) teamed up to introduce a bipartisan Senate resolution reaffirming America's recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China's military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). In a statement on Thursday (February 16), Senator Merkley said that US's values supporting freedom and a rules-based order must be at the centre of all its actions and relationships around the world- especially as the Chinese government pushes an alternative vision. ALSO READ | US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy “This resolution makes clear that the United States views the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India—not the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—and commits the US to deepening support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners and donors,” Merkley added. Senator Bill Hagerty, meanwhile, said on Thursday that at a time when China continued to pose grave and gathering threats to the free and open Indo-Pacific, it was critical for the US to "stand shoulder-to-shoulder" with its partners in the region, especially India. "This bipartisan resolution expresses the Senate’s support for unequivocally recognizing the state of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China’s military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, and further enhancing the US-India strategic partnership and the Quad in support of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific," Senator Hagerty added. Thursday's resolution comes after Indian and Chinese troops engaged in a skirmish in Arunachal Pradesh along the LAC in December 2022, the biggest clash in the Eastern Sector in six years. The statement by Senator Merkley said the resolution reaffirmed that the US recognised the McMahon Line as the international boundary between China and Arunachal Pradesh, and pushes back against Beijing's claims that Arunachal is PRC territory, which is a part of the PRC’s increasingly aggressive and expansionist policies. ALSO READ | Sanctions imposed by China on Lockheed Martin and Raytheon over Taiwan arms sales "The Senators’ resolution condemns additional PRC provocations, including the People’s Republic of China’s use of military force to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, construction of villages in contested areas, publication of maps with Mandarin-language names for cities and feature in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, and expansion of PRC territorial claims in Bhutan," the statement added. The resolution also commended the Indian government for taking steps to defend itself from China's aggression and security threats. These efforts included securing India’s telecommunications infrastructure; examining its procurement processes and supply chains and expanding cooperation with Taiwan in public health and other sectors. 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 Senators introduce bipartisan resolution reaffirming Arunachal Pradesh as integral part of India

A 24-year-old woman in Tampa city of the United States fought off a man who physically assaulted her in her apartment complex's gym. According to a video tweeted by Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office on Thursday (February 16), the incident is from last month. The woman-Natasha Alma-was working out in the gym when she saw a man trying to enter the premises. She opened the door and let him in and continued her workout.&nbsp;

However, several minutes later, the man approached Alma and tried to grab her. Alma pushed him away but he started chasing her. The attacker grabbed Alma and she fought back by punching him in the face. The attacker then pinned her to the floor but she continued fighting. Eventually, the attacker gave up and when he released his grip, Alma said she ran out of the gym to a nearby apartment.&nbsp;

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A woman shares her experience after fighting off a man who physically assaulted her in her apartment complex's gym. 
 
Nashali Alma wanted to speak out about her experience to encourage other women who've dealt with similar incidents to speak out. <a href="https://t.co/hyTeO3quRA">pic.twitter.com/hyTeO3quRA</a>
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According to a report by USA Today on Thursday, investigators tracked down the man and arrested him on the allegations of sexual abuse, kidnapping and false imprisonment. Alma wanted to speak out about her experience to encourage other women who've dealt with similar incidents to speak out.

Sheriff Chad Chronister from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said that he was grateful that Alma came forward. "I know that her story is going to be an inspiration to other women," Chronister added.&nbsp;

Alma, meanwhile said, "My advice would be to never give up. My parents always told me in life to never give up on anything. And that's one thing I kept in my mind when I was fighting him. &nbsp;

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A 24-year-old woman in Tampa city of the United States fought off a man who physically assaulted her in her apartment complex's gym. According to a video tweeted by Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office on Thursday (February 16), the incident is from last month.

A 24-year-old woman in Tampa city of the United States fought off a man who physically assaulted her in her apartment complex's gym. According to a video tweeted by Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office on Thursday (February 16), the incident is from last month. The woman-Natasha Alma-was working out in the gym when she saw a man trying to enter the premises. She opened the door and let him in and continued her workout. However, several minutes later, the man approached Alma and tried to grab her. Alma pushed him away but he started chasing her. The attacker grabbed Alma and she fought back by punching him in the face. The attacker then pinned her to the floor but she continued fighting. Eventually, the attacker gave up and when he released his grip, Alma said she ran out of the gym to a nearby apartment. A woman shares her experience after fighting off a man who physically assaulted her in her apartment complex's gym. Nashali Alma wanted to speak out about her experience to encourage other women who've dealt with similar incidents to speak out. pic.twitter.com/hyTeO3quRA — HCSO (@HCSOSheriff) February 15, 2023 × According to a report by USA Today on Thursday, investigators tracked down the man and arrested him on the allegations of sexual abuse, kidnapping and false imprisonment. Alma wanted to speak out about her experience to encourage other women who've dealt with similar incidents to speak out. Sheriff Chad Chronister from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said that he was grateful that Alma came forward. "I know that her story is going to be an inspiration to other women," Chronister added. Alma, meanwhile said, "My advice would be to never give up. My parents always told me in life to never give up on anything. And that's one thing I kept in my mind when I was fighting him. 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 shocker: Video shows Tampa woman fighting an attacker in a gym

The United States shot down an unidentified object over Canada. It is the third object to be shot down over North America in the last week.

Unidentified object shot down over Canada

United States President Joe Biden, who has been facing criticism from some lawmakers, on Thursday said that according to him the suspected Chinese spy balloon, which was seen flying in the skies of the US before being shot down in the Atlantic Ocean, was not a major security breach.&nbsp;

Biden, who has tried to maintain good communications with China and keep the tensions with Beijing under control, in a Noticias Telemundo interview said that he has no regrets about not shooting down the Chinese balloon sooner.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-dismisses-questions-about-age-ahead-of-expected-2024-campaign-560252">US President Joe Biden dismisses questions about age ahead of expected 2024 campaign</a>

"It's not a major breach. I mean, look, it's totally … it's a violation of international law. It's our airspace. And once it comes into our space, we can do what we want with it," said Biden.&nbsp;

He stated that the US military officials were concerned if the balloon is shot down over land, the deflated balloon and its parts can fall into a populated area.

"This thing was gigantic. What happened if it came down and hit a school in a rural area? What happened if it came down? So I told them as soon as they could shoot it down, shoot it down. They made a wise decision. They shot it down over the water, they're recovering most of the parts, and they're good," Biden said.

On February 2, Biden ordered to shoot the balloon after it crossed into the northwestern United States but acquiesced to the request of the US military to not take any step till it was over water.&nbsp;

A US fighter jet shot down the 200-foot-tall (61-meter) balloon off the coast of South Carolina on February 4. Efforts are being made by the US military to recover the parts of the balloon.&nbsp;

WATCH | US: Probe into Hunter Biden laptop saga

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However, some Democrats and Republicans slammed Biden for not shooting down the balloon as soon as it was spotted.&nbsp;

The officials had first detected the high-altitude surveillance balloon over Alaska on January 28.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden, who has been facing criticism from some lawmakers, on Thursday said that according to him the suspected Chinese spy balloon, which was seen flying in the skies of the US before being shot down in the Atlantic Ocean, was not a major security breach.

United States President Joe Biden, who has been facing criticism from some lawmakers, on Thursday said that according to him the suspected Chinese spy balloon, which was seen flying in the skies of the US before being shot down in the Atlantic Ocean, was not a major security breach. Biden, who has tried to maintain good communications with China and keep the tensions with Beijing under control, in a Noticias Telemundo interview said that he has no regrets about not shooting down the Chinese balloon sooner. ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden dismisses questions about age ahead of expected 2024 campaign "It's not a major breach. I mean, look, it's totally … it's a violation of international law. It's our airspace. And once it comes into our space, we can do what we want with it," said Biden. He stated that the US military officials were concerned if the balloon is shot down over land, the deflated balloon and its parts can fall into a populated area. "This thing was gigantic. What happened if it came down and hit a school in a rural area? What happened if it came down? So I told them as soon as they could shoot it down, shoot it down. They made a wise decision. They shot it down over the water, they're recovering most of the parts, and they're good," Biden said. On February 2, Biden ordered to shoot the balloon after it crossed into the northwestern United States but acquiesced to the request of the US military to not take any step till it was over water. A US fighter jet shot down the 200-foot-tall (61-meter) balloon off the coast of South Carolina on February 4. Efforts are being made by the US military to recover the parts of the balloon. WATCH | US: Probe into Hunter Biden laptop saga However, some Democrats and Republicans slammed Biden for not shooting down the balloon as soon as it was spotted. The officials had first detected the high-altitude surveillance balloon over Alaska on January 28. (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 President Biden calls suspected Chinese spy balloon 'not a major breach'

If you think the ongoing balloon controversy is new, then you are mistaken! The spy balloon&nbsp;strategy has been adopted by several countries to snoop&nbsp;on rival nations.&nbsp;Recently, a Chinese balloon was spotted over the skies of the United States. Beijing said that it was a civilian airship used for research purposes, but concerns were raised over the balloon being used to spy on America. The US deployed fighter jets to track the balloon and shoot it down. The authorities are now analysing the debris.&nbsp;

The recent balloon saga reminds us of a lesser-known incident that happened during World War II when US Navy tried to shoot down a "spy balloon" but later realised that they were firing at the planet Venus.&nbsp;

Such incendiary balloons were widely used by Japan during World War II between November 1944 and April 1945. The Japanese Army reportedly launched nearly 10,000 balloons, of which about 300 were found or observed in the US. Some were even seen in Canada and Mexico.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-china-operate-balloons-to-spy-on-several-countries-including-india-and-japan-559989">Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries including India and Japan?</a>&nbsp;

Historians have stated that the practice of launching balloons was seen as Japan's effort to bring the war to the US. Robert Mikesh, who wrote a monograph about Japan's balloon bomb programme for the Smithsonian Annals of Flight Series, said in a 2020 interview, “It's the only thing that they had that was capable of reaching the United States — and even that was a long shot.”&nbsp;

A recently published report by The Washington Post has listed a few incidents linked to the balloons, one even caused casualties on May 5, 1945.&nbsp;

In the same report, the Post mentioned the incident in the USS New York (BB-34) observed a silver sphere in the sky and thought that it was a Japanese balloon bomb, but it was actually Venus.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden defends shooting down 'spy' balloon&nbsp;

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After the recent balloon incident, the US Naval Institute posted on social media that "when the USS New York was sailing towards Iwo Jima in 1945, the crew spotted a silver sphere flying high overhead that seemed to follow the battleship for hours."&nbsp;

"Concerned that the shiny orb might be a Japanese balloon weapon, the captain ordered it shot down. After the guns failed to score a hit, a navigator realised that they were attacking Venus," the post added.&nbsp;

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Since "Chinese Spy Balloon" is trending: In 1945, the crew of USS New York spotted a sphere that they thought might be a Japanese balloon weapon. The captain ordered it shot down but none of the guns could score a hit. Finally, a navigator realized they were attacking Venus. <a href="https://t.co/aKwedtrr2G">pic.twitter.com/aKwedtrr2G</a>
— U.S. Naval Institute (@NavalInstitute) <a href="https://twitter.com/NavalInstitute/status/1621310952489590785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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If you think the ongoing balloon controversy is new, then you are mistaken! The spy balloon strategy has been adopted by several countries to snoop on rival nations.

If you think the ongoing balloon controversy is new, then you are mistaken! The spy balloon strategy has been adopted by several countries to snoop on rival nations. Recently, a Chinese balloon was spotted over the skies of the United States. Beijing said that it was a civilian airship used for research purposes, but concerns were raised over the balloon being used to spy on America. The US deployed fighter jets to track the balloon and shoot it down. The authorities are now analysing the debris. The recent balloon saga reminds us of a lesser-known incident that happened during World War II when US Navy tried to shoot down a "spy balloon" but later realised that they were firing at the planet Venus. Such incendiary balloons were widely used by Japan during World War II between November 1944 and April 1945. The Japanese Army reportedly launched nearly 10,000 balloons, of which about 300 were found or observed in the US. Some were even seen in Canada and Mexico. ALSO READ | Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries including India and Japan? Historians have stated that the practice of launching balloons was seen as Japan's effort to bring the war to the US. Robert Mikesh, who wrote a monograph about Japan's balloon bomb programme for the Smithsonian Annals of Flight Series, said in a 2020 interview, “It's the only thing that they had that was capable of reaching the United States — and even that was a long shot.” A recently published report by The Washington Post has listed a few incidents linked to the balloons, one even caused casualties on May 5, 1945. In the same report, the Post mentioned the incident in the USS New York (BB-34) observed a silver sphere in the sky and thought that it was a Japanese balloon bomb, but it was actually Venus. WATCH | US President Joe Biden defends shooting down 'spy' balloon × After the recent balloon incident, the US Naval Institute posted on social media that "when the USS New York was sailing towards Iwo Jima in 1945, the crew spotted a silver sphere flying high overhead that seemed to follow the battleship for hours." "Concerned that the shiny orb might be a Japanese balloon weapon, the captain ordered it shot down. After the guns failed to score a hit, a navigator realised that they were attacking Venus," the post added. Since "Chinese Spy Balloon" is trending: In 1945, the crew of USS New York spotted a sphere that they thought might be a Japanese balloon weapon. The captain ordered it shot down but none of the guns could score a hit. Finally, a navigator realized they were attacking Venus. pic.twitter.com/aKwedtrr2G — U.S. Naval Institute (@NavalInstitute) February 3, 2023 × 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.

Blast from past: China balloon brings back memory of times when US tried to ‘shoot down’ Venus

An Arizona&nbsp;Sheriff told lawmakers in Washington that criminal transnational organisations called cartels on average charge $21,000 from Indians to help them illegally cross over the American border. Sheriff Mark Dannels of Cochise County, Arizona told members of the House Judiciary Committee this week that the minimum amount being charged by a cartel for a foreign national to cross over the border is $7,000, a report by news agency PTI on Saturday (February 4) said.&nbsp;

Dannels informed the lawmakers that the border along Mexico is not secure and the cartels control south of the American border. “I think India was USD 21,000, for example. But the minimum is, like, around USD 7,000 right now. Most of these people don’t have it,” he told the committee.&nbsp;

The Arizona Sheriff added, "So, when they come across the country, though, they might go through a processing, as the honourable judges talked about, but they’re servant to the cartels at the end, which is usually for sex trade, gangs, drugs, labour, you name it, I have seen no win-win in this.”

A few days back, a report by the Washington Post said that illegal border crossings fell sharply in January due to tighter restrictions applied by the Joe Biden administration against migrants from Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua and Haiti along the southern border. The report said that illegal crossings by migrants from these four countries were down more than 95 per cent. It added that the number of migrants stopped along the Mexico border last month to about 150,000, down from 251,487 in December.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the government said that almost 1,000 children who were separated from their parents while attempting to enter the United States during Donald Trump's presidency were still not back with family. Releasing a statement, the Department of Homeland Security said a task force set up to coordinate reunification efforts "has to date identified 3,924 children" separated during Trump's tenure, of which 2,926 were reunited.&nbsp;

"Of the 998 children who remain to be reunited... 148 children are in the process of reunification and 183 families have been informed of the opportunity to reunify by a contracted NGO," the statement added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An Arizona Sheriff told lawmakers in Washington that criminal transnational organisations called cartels on average charge $21,000 from Indians to help them illegally cross over the American border.

An Arizona Sheriff told lawmakers in Washington that criminal transnational organisations called cartels on average charge $21,000 from Indians to help them illegally cross over the American border. Sheriff Mark Dannels of Cochise County, Arizona told members of the House Judiciary Committee this week that the minimum amount being charged by a cartel for a foreign national to cross over the border is $7,000, a report by news agency PTI on Saturday (February 4) said. Dannels informed the lawmakers that the border along Mexico is not secure and the cartels control south of the American border. “I think India was USD 21,000, for example. But the minimum is, like, around USD 7,000 right now. Most of these people don’t have it,” he told the committee. The Arizona Sheriff added, "So, when they come across the country, though, they might go through a processing, as the honourable judges talked about, but they’re servant to the cartels at the end, which is usually for sex trade, gangs, drugs, labour, you name it, I have seen no win-win in this.” A few days back, a report by the Washington Post said that illegal border crossings fell sharply in January due to tighter restrictions applied by the Joe Biden administration against migrants from Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua and Haiti along the southern border. The report said that illegal crossings by migrants from these four countries were down more than 95 per cent. It added that the number of migrants stopped along the Mexico border last month to about 150,000, down from 251,487 in December. On Thursday, the government said that almost 1,000 children who were separated from their parents while attempting to enter the United States during Donald Trump's presidency were still not back with family. Releasing a statement, the Department of Homeland Security said a task force set up to coordinate reunification efforts "has to date identified 3,924 children" separated during Trump's tenure, of which 2,926 were reunited. "Of the 998 children who remain to be reunited... 148 children are in the process of reunification and 183 families have been informed of the opportunity to reunify by a contracted NGO," the statement added. (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.

Cartels charge Indians $21,000 to help them cross US border illegally: Sheriff

The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-is-civilian-airship-used-for-research-558615">in the United States</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-is-civilian-airship-used-for-research-558615">skies</a>. According to a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon." &nbsp;

However, spokesperson Ryder did not specify the balloon's exact location in Latin America, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Pentagon said it was tracking a Chinese spy balloon flying high over the US. A senior defence official told reporters the balloon was for surveillance. The official added that at the request of President Joe Biden, officials considered shooting the balloon down but concluded doing so would endanger too many people on the ground.&nbsp;

Initially, the Chinese government did not identify the balloon's origins but later admitted the civilian craft was blown off course.&nbsp;

"The airship is from China and is civilian in nature, used for meteorological and other scientific research. Due to the influence of westerly winds and its limited control capability, the airship deviated from its intended course," the foreign ministry of China&nbsp;said in a statement late Friday.&nbsp;

"China regrets that the airship strayed into the United States by mistake due to force majeure. China will continue to maintain communication with the US side to properly handle this accident," it added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinkens-trip-to-beijing-postponed-over-alleged-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-558653">Antony Blinken’s trip to Beijing ‘postponed’ over alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace</a>

Meanwhile, US State Secretary Antony Blinken postponed his upcoming trip to China as he did not want the balloon issue to dominate his meetings with Chinese officials.&nbsp;

Addressing a joint press conference with South Korean foreign minister Park Jin on Friday, Blinken said that China's decision to fly a balloon over the US was both unacceptable and irresponsible.&nbsp;

"It's a violation of our sovereignty, it's a violation of international law, and it was very important that we, of course, take the actions we did to protect any sensitive information, to protect our people and to make clear to China that, again, this is an unacceptable as well as an irresponsible action," Blinken said, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"What this has done is created the conditions that undermine the purpose of the trip, including ongoing efforts to build a floor under the relationship and to address a broad range of issues that are of concern to the American people, I believe to the Chinese people, and certainly as well to people around the world. So, we took the step that I announced earlier today in postponing the planned visit for this weekend," he added.&nbsp;

China hits out at American media, politicians over balloon incident

The Chinese government said on Saturday that&nbsp;US media and politicians had taken advantage of US allegations that&nbsp;China flew a spy balloon over American skies. Releasing a statement, the foreign ministry said, "China... never violated the territory and airspace of any sovereign country.&nbsp;Some politicians and media in the United States used the (balloon) incident as a pretext to attack and&nbsp;smear&nbsp;China."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen in the United States skies.

The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen in the United States skies. According to a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon." However, spokesperson Ryder did not specify the balloon's exact location in Latin America, news agency AFP reported. On Thursday, the Pentagon said it was tracking a Chinese spy balloon flying high over the US. A senior defence official told reporters the balloon was for surveillance. The official added that at the request of President Joe Biden, officials considered shooting the balloon down but concluded doing so would endanger too many people on the ground. Initially, the Chinese government did not identify the balloon's origins but later admitted the civilian craft was blown off course. "The airship is from China and is civilian in nature, used for meteorological and other scientific research. Due to the influence of westerly winds and its limited control capability, the airship deviated from its intended course," the foreign ministry of China said in a statement late Friday. "China regrets that the airship strayed into the United States by mistake due to force majeure. China will continue to maintain communication with the US side to properly handle this accident," it added. ALSO READ | Antony Blinken’s trip to Beijing ‘postponed’ over alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace Meanwhile, US State Secretary Antony Blinken postponed his upcoming trip to China as he did not want the balloon issue to dominate his meetings with Chinese officials. Addressing a joint press conference with South Korean foreign minister Park Jin on Friday, Blinken said that China's decision to fly a balloon over the US was both unacceptable and irresponsible. "It's a violation of our sovereignty, it's a violation of international law, and it was very important that we, of course, take the actions we did to protect any sensitive information, to protect our people and to make clear to China that, again, this is an unacceptable as well as an irresponsible action," Blinken said, news agency Reuters reported. "What this has done is created the conditions that undermine the purpose of the trip, including ongoing efforts to build a floor under the relationship and to address a broad range of issues that are of concern to the American people, I believe to the Chinese people, and certainly as well to people around the world. So, we took the step that I announced earlier today in postponing the planned visit for this weekend," he added. China hits out at American media, politicians over balloon incident The Chinese government said on Saturday that US media and politicians had taken advantage of US allegations that China flew a spy balloon over American skies. Releasing a statement, the foreign ministry said, "China... never violated the territory and airspace of any sovereign country. Some politicians and media in the United States used the (balloon) incident as a pretext to attack and smear China." (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.

After US, another Chinese balloon seen flying over Latin America: Pentagon

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, speaking during an interview on Monday, said that it was “quite possible” that Moscow may end the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after 2026.

While speaking to the RIA news agency, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, “This is quite a possible scenario.”

In November 2022, US-Russia talks on the resumption of inspections under the New START treaty, which will expire in February 2026, were called off at the last minute. Both sides have failed to decide on a common time frame for new talks.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-orders-estonias-ambassador-to-leave-accuses-the-country-of-total-russophobia-555125">Russia orders Estonia's ambassador to leave, accuses country of 'total Russophobia'</a>

Russia has stated that the nuclear arms control may end because of efforts that have been made by the US to inflict "strategic defeat" on Russia in its war with Ukraine.

There is a vast arsenal of nuclear weapons with both Russia and the United States which have been partly limited by the 2011 New START Treaty.

However, it is unclear what would happen after February 4, 2026, although the United States has hinted at its willingness to reach a follow-on agreement with Russia.

Russia's top arms control diplomat Ryabkov alleged the US of ignoring the interest of Russia and dismantling the architecture of arms control in recent years.

WATCH | Russia brands tank move 'direct involvement by West'

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"New START may well fall victim to this. We are ready for such a scenario,” said Ryabkov while speaking to RIA.&nbsp;

"The entire situation in the sphere of security, including arms control, has been held hostage by the US line of inflicting strategic defeat on Russia. We will resist this in the strongest possible way using all the methods and means at our disposal,” Ryabkov further stated.

The remarks made by the deputy foreign minister include a warning for Washington that the military support it is providing to Ukraine can lead to the expiration of the post-Cold War bilateral arms control treaty.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, speaking during an interview on Monday, said that it was “quite possible” that Moscow may end the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after 2026.

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, speaking during an interview on Monday, said that it was “quite possible” that Moscow may end the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the United States after 2026. While speaking to the RIA news agency, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, “This is quite a possible scenario.” In November 2022, US-Russia talks on the resumption of inspections under the New START treaty, which will expire in February 2026, were called off at the last minute. Both sides have failed to decide on a common time frame for new talks. ALSO READ | Russia orders Estonia's ambassador to leave, accuses country of 'total Russophobia' Russia has stated that the nuclear arms control may end because of efforts that have been made by the US to inflict "strategic defeat" on Russia in its war with Ukraine. There is a vast arsenal of nuclear weapons with both Russia and the United States which have been partly limited by the 2011 New START Treaty. However, it is unclear what would happen after February 4, 2026, although the United States has hinted at its willingness to reach a follow-on agreement with Russia. Russia's top arms control diplomat Ryabkov alleged the US of ignoring the interest of Russia and dismantling the architecture of arms control in recent years. WATCH | Russia brands tank move 'direct involvement by West' "New START may well fall victim to this. We are ready for such a scenario,” said Ryabkov while speaking to RIA. "The entire situation in the sphere of security, including arms control, has been held hostage by the US line of inflicting strategic defeat on Russia. We will resist this in the strongest possible way using all the methods and means at our disposal,” Ryabkov further stated. The remarks made by the deputy foreign minister include a warning for Washington that the military support it is providing to Ukraine can lead to the expiration of the post-Cold War bilateral arms control treaty. (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

Russia says ‘quite possible’ to end nuclear arms treaty with US after 2026

Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations.&nbsp;

The 2024 edition will witness the participation of 10 teams from CONMEBOL while six teams from CONCACAF will also register their presence.&nbsp;

"More and better competitions and for football and its values to grow and strengthen throughout the hemisphere. Without a doubt, both confederations believe in big, and we will work with this orientation," said&nbsp;CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-death-of-possession-football-542811">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The death of possession football?</a>

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Organising the showpiece event will be the perfect opportunity for the US to have experience under its bag before hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada in 2026.&nbsp;

While teams in CONMEBOL will have to take the regular approach in the qualifying rounds to earn a place in the quadrennial event, the&nbsp;six CONCACAF national teams will qualify through the&nbsp;2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League competition.

"This is a partnership to support the ongoing growth of men's and women's football in CONCACAF and CONMEBOL, and will truly be of mutual benefit to both Confederations," said&nbsp;CONCACAF president&nbsp;Victor Montagliani.&nbsp;

This is not the first instance where the US has participated in Copa America. It has played in the tournament on four occasions previously, viz. 1993, 1995, 2007 and 2016. Meanwhile, Mexico has featured in the tournament 10 times.&nbsp;

Currently, Argentina are the holders of the Copa America trophy. La Albiceleste under Lionel Messi won the final in 2021, beating arch-rivals Brazil in a thrilling 1-0 contest at the iconic Maracana Stadium.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-lionel-messis-trophy-drought-with-argentina-ends-as-they-beat-brazil-397276">Read more:&nbsp;Copa America: Lionel Messi's trophy drought ends as Argentina beat Brazil</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

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Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations.

Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations. The 2024 edition will witness the participation of 10 teams from CONMEBOL while six teams from CONCACAF will also register their presence. "More and better competitions and for football and its values to grow and strengthen throughout the hemisphere. Without a doubt, both confederations believe in big, and we will work with this orientation," said CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez. WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? × Organising the showpiece event will be the perfect opportunity for the US to have experience under its bag before hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada in 2026. While teams in CONMEBOL will have to take the regular approach in the qualifying rounds to earn a place in the quadrennial event, the six CONCACAF national teams will qualify through the 2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League competition. "This is a partnership to support the ongoing growth of men's and women's football in CONCACAF and CONMEBOL, and will truly be of mutual benefit to both Confederations," said CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani. This is not the first instance where the US has participated in Copa America. It has played in the tournament on four occasions previously, viz. 1993, 1995, 2007 and 2016. Meanwhile, Mexico has featured in the tournament 10 times. Currently, Argentina are the holders of the Copa America trophy. La Albiceleste under Lionel Messi won the final in 2021, beating arch-rivals Brazil in a thrilling 1-0 contest at the iconic Maracana Stadium. Read more: Copa America: Lionel Messi's trophy drought ends as Argentina beat Brazil (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

United States to host 2024 Copa America with 16 teams

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov, while speaking to the Russian news agency TASS, said that Moscow is aware of the operations being conducted by the United States against them in the information space by recruiting hackers and providing training to Ukraine's IT army.

"It is telling that the United States is putting its aggressive policies into action. They made no attempt to conceal the fact that their cyber command is conducting operations against our country. We are well aware that Washington is aggressively recruiting hackers, training the so-called IT Army of Ukraine, and using information and communication technologies of their partners and controlled private companies to carry out cyberattacks against Russia's information infrastructure," Syromolotov said while speaking to TASS.

He added that Washington and its allies have been supporting risky digital tactics. The Russian deputy foreign minister said that the United States is "openly moving towards the militarisation of the information domain," although the majority of United Nations member states wish that the information technologies be used peacefully.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-eu-official-claims-russia-is-now-at-war-with-nato-and-the-west-556543">Ukraine war: EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’</a>

"They are enforcing NATO developments on cyberwarfare standards, attempting to change international law to fit them. Unfortunately, this falls within Washington's aggressive bloc-thinking, which is moving the globe toward ultimate confrontation," stated Syromolotov.&nbsp;

'US burned the bridges to continue cybersecurity dialogue'

Minister Syromolotov further alleged the US of "burning the bridges" to continue any kind of dialogue with Moscow over global cybersecurity issues.

"We don’t see any prerequisites for resuming dialogue on global cybersecurity with Washington at this point. I would like to reiterate that it wasn’t our choice, it was the Americans who burned the bridges. We won’t run after anyone. We aren’t interested in dialogue for the sake of dialogue. When those overseas sober up from their Russophobic frenzy and get in the mood for a constructive conversation, then we will probably think about resuming contact," he stated.

Syromolotov further stated that dialogue on the cybersecurity issue between the Kremlin and the White House was suspended by the US, citing the military operation being carried out by Russia in Ukraine.

WATCH | Russia brands tank move 'direct involvement by West'

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"Instead of constructive discussions on&nbsp;the global cybersecurity issue, the Americans launched a Russophobic campaign on the international stage. US Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray’s recent address to the World Economic Forum in Davos is another vivid example of that. He sought to indiscriminately paint our country as pretty much the biggest threat to peace and security in the cyber field," the minister stated.

"All these attempts by our opponents will definitely fail. However, this politicised farce seriously impedes the operation of crucial multilateral negotiation mechanisms on the use of information and communication technologies," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov, while speaking to the Russian news agency TASS, said that Moscow is aware of the operations being conducted by the United States against them in the information space by recruiting hackers and providing training to Ukraine's IT army. "It is telling that the United States is putting its aggressive policies into action. They made no attempt to conceal the fact that their cyber command is conducting operations against our country. We are well aware that Washington is aggressively recruiting hackers, training the so-called IT Army of Ukraine, and using information and communication technologies of their partners and controlled private companies to carry out cyberattacks against Russia's information infrastructure," Syromolotov said while speaking to TASS. He added that Washington and its allies have been supporting risky digital tactics. The Russian deputy foreign minister said that the United States is "openly moving towards the militarisation of the information domain," although the majority of United Nations member states wish that the information technologies be used peacefully. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’ "They are enforcing NATO developments on cyberwarfare standards, attempting to change international law to fit them. Unfortunately, this falls within Washington's aggressive bloc-thinking, which is moving the globe toward ultimate confrontation," stated Syromolotov. 'US burned the bridges to continue cybersecurity dialogue' Minister Syromolotov further alleged the US of "burning the bridges" to continue any kind of dialogue with Moscow over global cybersecurity issues. "We don’t see any prerequisites for resuming dialogue on global cybersecurity with Washington at this point. I would like to reiterate that it wasn’t our choice, it was the Americans who burned the bridges. We won’t run after anyone. We aren’t interested in dialogue for the sake of dialogue. When those overseas sober up from their Russophobic frenzy and get in the mood for a constructive conversation, then we will probably think about resuming contact," he stated. Syromolotov further stated that dialogue on the cybersecurity issue between the Kremlin and the White House was suspended by the US, citing the military operation being carried out by Russia in Ukraine. WATCH | Russia brands tank move 'direct involvement by West' "Instead of constructive discussions on the global cybersecurity issue, the Americans launched a Russophobic campaign on the international stage. US Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray’s recent address to the World Economic Forum in Davos is another vivid example of that. He sought to indiscriminately paint our country as pretty much the biggest threat to peace and security in the cyber field," the minister stated. "All these attempts by our opponents will definitely fail. However, this politicised farce seriously impedes the operation of crucial multilateral negotiation mechanisms on the use of information and communication technologies," he added. (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

Russia accuses US of training ‘Ukrainian IT Army’, recruiting hackers for cyberattacks

In his first public comments since classified documents were found at his residence in Indiana, the former United States Vice President Mike Pence&nbsp;said on Friday (January 27) that he takes “full responsibility” for the incident. This comes days after media reports first emerged that dozens of documents marked classified were discovered at Pence’s residence in Indiana by his lawyers on January 16. However, the former VP’s legal counsel at the time had said that Pence was “unaware” of the existence of the papers in question which have since been handed over to the FBI.&nbsp;

While speaking about the economy and promoting his new book “So Help Me God” at Florida International University, Pence said, “Let me be clear: Those classified documents should not have been in my personal residence…Mistakes were made, and I take full responsibility.” A total of four boxes containing copies of administration paper documents found at Pence’s Indiana residence are said to be from his time as the vice president from 2017 to 2021 when Donald&nbsp;Trump was the president, reported the Associated Press.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-investigators-find-more-classified-documents-at-president-bidens-home-in-delaware-554803">US: Investigators find six more classified documents at President Biden’s home in Delaware</a>

The discovery of the documents was first reported by CNN on January 25 after two letters written by Greg Jacob, Pence’s legal counsel to the National Archives were procured by the US media. This comes as incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are under investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) for retaining classified documents from their time in office.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/after-biden-classified-documents-found-at-former-us-vp-mike-pences-indiana-home-555937">After Biden, classified documents found at former US VP Mike Pence's Indiana home</a>

“We acted above politics and put national interests first,” said Pence in Florida on Friday and hoped that people would acknowledge that he swiftly acted to correct the error. The former vice president also noted that national security depends on the proper handling of classified documents. Notably, Pence had previously said that he did not retain any classified documents or information from his time in office.

In a letter dated January 18, the former VP’s lawyer wrote that the records “appear to be a small number of documents bearing classified markings that were inadvertently boxed and transported to the personal home of the former vice president at the end of the last administration”. According to Jacob, out of the four boxes, two had a “small number of papers appearing to bear classified markings” while the other two contained “courtesy copies of vice presidential papers.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/classified-documents-found-at-former-us-vp-mike-pences-home-report-555660">Classified documents found at former US vice president Mike Pence’s home: Reports</a>

The former US VP’s lawyer said that the search was called for by Pence following the discovery of classified documents at Biden's Wilmington residence “out of an abundance of caution.” However, since the discovery, he said that his legal counsel will “cooperate fully” with the National Archives, Department of Justice and Congress for the inquiry.&nbsp; 
 
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In his first public comments since classified documents were found at his residence in Indiana, the former United States Vice President Mike Pence said on Friday (January 27) that he takes “full responsibility” for the incident.

In his first public comments since classified documents were found at his residence in Indiana, the former United States Vice President Mike Pence said on Friday (January 27) that he takes “full responsibility” for the incident. This comes days after media reports first emerged that dozens of documents marked classified were discovered at Pence’s residence in Indiana by his lawyers on January 16. However, the former VP’s legal counsel at the time had said that Pence was “unaware” of the existence of the papers in question which have since been handed over to the FBI. While speaking about the economy and promoting his new book “So Help Me God” at Florida International University, Pence said, “Let me be clear: Those classified documents should not have been in my personal residence…Mistakes were made, and I take full responsibility.” A total of four boxes containing copies of administration paper documents found at Pence’s Indiana residence are said to be from his time as the vice president from 2017 to 2021 when Donald Trump was the president, reported the Associated Press. ALSO READ | US: Investigators find six more classified documents at President Biden’s home in Delaware The discovery of the documents was first reported by CNN on January 25 after two letters written by Greg Jacob, Pence’s legal counsel to the National Archives were procured by the US media. This comes as incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are under investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) for retaining classified documents from their time in office. ALSO WATCH | After Biden, classified documents found at former US VP Mike Pence's Indiana home “We acted above politics and put national interests first,” said Pence in Florida on Friday and hoped that people would acknowledge that he swiftly acted to correct the error. The former vice president also noted that national security depends on the proper handling of classified documents. Notably, Pence had previously said that he did not retain any classified documents or information from his time in office. In a letter dated January 18, the former VP’s lawyer wrote that the records “appear to be a small number of documents bearing classified markings that were inadvertently boxed and transported to the personal home of the former vice president at the end of the last administration”. According to Jacob, out of the four boxes, two had a “small number of papers appearing to bear classified markings” while the other two contained “courtesy copies of vice presidential papers.” ALSO READ | Classified documents found at former US vice president Mike Pence’s home: Reports The former US VP’s lawyer said that the search was called for by Pence following the discovery of classified documents at Biden's Wilmington residence “out of an abundance of caution.” However, since the discovery, he said that his legal counsel will “cooperate fully” with the National Archives, Department of Justice and Congress for the inquiry. 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.

Former US VP Pence takes ‘full responsibility’ for classified records found at his Indiana home

Commerce Department in the United States said on Thursday (January 26) that the economy grew slower in 2022 amid fears of recession. At the fag end of the year, the economy performed slightly better than expected amid looming recession fears, higher borrowing costs and the rising cost of living.&nbsp;The US Commerce Department revealed that the economy grew at an annual rate of 2.9 per cent in the last three months of 2022, down from 3.2 per cent in the previous quarter.&nbsp;

In a statement, the department said that the "increase in real GDP in 2022 primarily reflected increases in consumer spending, exports" and certain forms of investment.&nbsp;

The economic activity in the country was moderating as the central bank increased the benchmark lending rate seven times last year. The hikes were aimed at cooling demand and reining in costs as inflation surged.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-arms-exports-up-49-in-fiscal-2022-556283">United States arms exports to foreign governments rose 49% in fiscal 2022</a>&nbsp;

In 2022, declines in manufacturing and retail sales led to a slump in the property sector. The year remained a healing period for the economy, which has faced the wrath of the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;

According to Commerce Department data, the US economy expanded 2.1 per cent for all of 2022, down from the figure in 2021.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Former US president Donald trump wins golf championship at his own club&nbsp;

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As quoted by CNN, John Leer, chief economist of Morning Consult, said, "A shockingly resilient consumer mostly fueled the robust economic growth during the last quarter of 2022."&nbsp;

He said, "Consumers are increasingly struggling to navigate the ongoing effects from the spike in prices last year by drawing on credit and savings."&nbsp;

"With consumer demand likely to continue its downward trajectory, business investment is also likely to slow in the coming quarters, increasing the probability of a recession this year," he added.&nbsp;

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Commerce Department in the United States said on Thursday (January 26) that the economy grew slower in 2022 amid fears of recession. At the fag end of the year, the economy performed slightly better than expected amid looming recession fears, higher borrowing costs and the rising cost of living.

Commerce Department in the United States said on Thursday (January 26) that the economy grew slower in 2022 amid fears of recession. At the fag end of the year, the economy performed slightly better than expected amid looming recession fears, higher borrowing costs and the rising cost of living. The US Commerce Department revealed that the economy grew at an annual rate of 2.9 per cent in the last three months of 2022, down from 3.2 per cent in the previous quarter. In a statement, the department said that the "increase in real GDP in 2022 primarily reflected increases in consumer spending, exports" and certain forms of investment. The economic activity in the country was moderating as the central bank increased the benchmark lending rate seven times last year. The hikes were aimed at cooling demand and reining in costs as inflation surged. ALSO READ | United States arms exports to foreign governments rose 49% in fiscal 2022 In 2022, declines in manufacturing and retail sales led to a slump in the property sector. The year remained a healing period for the economy, which has faced the wrath of the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. According to Commerce Department data, the US economy expanded 2.1 per cent for all of 2022, down from the figure in 2021. WATCH | Former US president Donald trump wins golf championship at his own club × As quoted by CNN, John Leer, chief economist of Morning Consult, said, "A shockingly resilient consumer mostly fueled the robust economic growth during the last quarter of 2022." He said, "Consumers are increasingly struggling to navigate the ongoing effects from the spike in prices last year by drawing on credit and savings." "With consumer demand likely to continue its downward trajectory, business investment is also likely to slow in the coming quarters, increasing the probability of a recession this year," he added. 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 economy performed better than expected in final months of last year

The war in Ukraine will soon mark one year, and there appears no possibility of Russia ceasing its offensive anytime soon. Since the beginning of the war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to international governments to send weapons and military equipment to further enable his country retaliate against Russian attacks.

The war in Ukraine will soon mark one year, and there appears no possibility of Russia ceasing its offensive anytime soon. Since the beginning of the war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to international governments to send weapons and military equipment to further enable his country retaliate against Russian attacks. Recently, Germany and the United States (US) became the latest countries in the West to supply battle tanks to Kyiv, after initially being reluctant to do so. It has been observed that since the beginning of the war on February 24, 2022, there has been an upward trend in global military spending as several countries are increasing their military budgets. An increase in spending would mean more money for defence companies- particularly from the US. As Russia's offensive in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies? United States: Defence companies post higher net sales A report by the news agency Reuters on Monday (January 23) said that American defence companies were set to post higher sales in the fourth quarter bolstered by easing supply chain bottlenecks and increased defence outlays as the Pentagon and allies stepped up spending to aid Ukraine. Two defence companies — Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies — reported their fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday. Lockheed Martin reported fourth quarter 2022 net sales of $19.0 billion, compared to $17.7 billion in the fourth quarter of 2021, a report by Cision PR Newswire said. On the other hand, Raytheon Technologies, an aerospace and defence company, beat analysts' expectations as it fed off a strong travel demand worldwide which boosted demand for its jet engine, parts and services. According to data from Refinitiv, Raytheon reported an adjusted net income of $1.27 per share in the quarter that ended December 31, above analysts' average estimate of $1.24 per share. The company's net sales were up 6.2% at $18.09 billion, but missed analysts' average estimate of $18.15 billion. A report by Reuters on Tuesday said that Raytheon's missiles and defence unit sales were up 6.2% to $4.1 billion in the fourth quarter. Another American company Northrop Grumman reported a fourth-quarter sales growth of 16% year-over-year to $10.03 billion, beating the consensus of $9.66 billion, a report by Benzinga on Wednesday said. Defence budgets booming worldwide Many countries assisting Ukraine, have replenished their military equipment sent to the war-torn country and now are working towards increasing their own defence budgets. Japan, which supplied bulletproof vests, helmets, medical kits and other supplies to Ukraine last year, will boost its defence budget for 2023. In December last year, the government unveiled a record $863 billion (114.4 trillion yen) budget amid rising threats from North Korea and China. The budget would include the purchase of US-made Tomahawks and other long-range cruise missiles that can hit targets in China or North Korea, a report by Al-Jazeera said. The government would also buy standoff missiles for launch from warplanes from Norway and from Lockheed Martin. French President Emmanuel Macron announced last week that his government would boost military spending by more than one-third in the coming years. On January 20, Macron said the planned budget from 2024-2030 would adapt the military to the possibility of high-intensity conflicts, made all the more urgent since the start of the war in Ukraine, Al-Jazeera reported. The budget for the period will stand at $447 billion, up from $320 in 2019-2025. France, which has supplied Ukraine with rocket launchers and Crotale air defence systems, recently announced that it would supply battle tanks to the war-hit country. Germany, which announced the supply of Leopard-2 tanks to Ukraine, approved its defence budget last year. Germany's core defence spending for 2023 would amount to $55.4 billion, a 0.6% nominal decrease from 2022. Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in Ukraine, there has been an intense debate in Berlin over the state of the German military and the role it should play in Europe. Just three days after the war began, chancellor Olaf Scholz proclaimed “a change of era” for the country's defence policy, according to The Christian Science Monitor. Who is the biggest winner in the Ukraine war? The United States has emerged as one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine in terms of the provision of military equipment. And one cannot deny the fact Ukraine would not have been able to fight back against Russia without weapons supplied by the US. And therefore, the American arms industry is the biggest winner. However, Washington has also faced criticism. In November last year, European officials hit out at the Joe Biden administration for profiting from the war. Speaking to POLITICO, one such official said, "The fact is, if you look at it soberly, the country that is most profiting from this war (in Ukraine) is the US because they are selling more gas and at higher prices, and because they are selling more weapons." A month before the war, a likely opportunity surfaced for Western arms companies Just a month before the Russian offensive started, top Western arms companies were briefing investors about a likely boost to their profits. George J. Hayes from Raytheon said during a call, "We just have to look to last week where we saw the drone attack in the UAE … And of course, the tensions in eastern Europe, the tensions in the South China Sea, all of those things are putting pressure on some of the defence spending over there. So I fully expect we’re going to see some benefit from it," the Conversation reported in March 2022. So it's clear: the military-industrial complex is thriving once again as the world looks at prospects of more long-drawn wars, now over Ukraine and possibly soon over Taiwan. If the 49% increase in military sales by the US to foreign countries is anything to go by, 2023 will be the year of American defence companies. 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: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies?

The US State Department said on Wednesday (January 25) that the sales of military equipment to foreign governments increased 49 per cent to $205.6 billion in the latest fiscal year.&nbsp;In an era when world leaders are rushing to stockpile advanced weapons for their armed forces, the US in its report said that the transfers of arms and defence trade are important tools of America's foreign policy with potential long-term implications for regional and global security.&nbsp;

Notably, the relaxation of restrictions related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic remained one of the crucial factors of a surge in arms export. Besides, Russia’s invasion led the European allies to seek arms and allies in the Pacific have also asked for US weapons amid Chinese aggression.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tank-delivery-promises-by-the-west-perceived-as-direct-involvement-kremlin-556204">Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict</a>&nbsp;

The State Department report said that global security is the reason behind Washington's holistic approach to exporting weapons. It also stated that the decision weighs in on political, military, human rights, economic, nonproliferation, and technology security.&nbsp;

It mentioned that end-use factors determine the sale and appropriate provision of military equipment and the licensing of direct commercial sales of defence articles to other nations.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: US&nbsp;imposing visa restrictions for certain Nigerians&nbsp;

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The news agency Reuters reported that the sales approved in the year included $13.9 billion worth of F-15ID fighter jets to Indonesia. On the other hand, $6.9 billion worth of Multi-Mission Surface Combatant ships to Greece and $6 billion worth of M1A2 Abrams tanks to Poland are also added.&nbsp;

The report stated that the authorities carefully assess the transfers and analyse each one on a case-by-case basis. They make sure that the arms exports are in accordance with the Arms Export Control Act and related policies and guidelines.&nbsp;

World leaders can purchase direct commercial sales negotiated between a government and a company and foreign military sales in the United States. In foreign military sales, a foreign government typically contacts a defence department official at the US embassy in its capital.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The US State Department said on Wednesday (January 25) that the sales of military equipment to foreign governments increased 49 per cent to $205.6 billion in the latest fiscal year.

The US State Department said on Wednesday (January 25) that the sales of military equipment to foreign governments increased 49 per cent to $205.6 billion in the latest fiscal year. In an era when world leaders are rushing to stockpile advanced weapons for their armed forces, the US in its report said that the transfers of arms and defence trade are important tools of America's foreign policy with potential long-term implications for regional and global security. Notably, the relaxation of restrictions related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic remained one of the crucial factors of a surge in arms export. Besides, Russia’s invasion led the European allies to seek arms and allies in the Pacific have also asked for US weapons amid Chinese aggression. ALSO READ | Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict The State Department report said that global security is the reason behind Washington's holistic approach to exporting weapons. It also stated that the decision weighs in on political, military, human rights, economic, nonproliferation, and technology security. It mentioned that end-use factors determine the sale and appropriate provision of military equipment and the licensing of direct commercial sales of defence articles to other nations. WATCH | WION Dispatch: US imposing visa restrictions for certain Nigerians × The news agency Reuters reported that the sales approved in the year included $13.9 billion worth of F-15ID fighter jets to Indonesia. On the other hand, $6.9 billion worth of Multi-Mission Surface Combatant ships to Greece and $6 billion worth of M1A2 Abrams tanks to Poland are also added. The report stated that the authorities carefully assess the transfers and analyse each one on a case-by-case basis. They make sure that the arms exports are in accordance with the Arms Export Control Act and related policies and guidelines. World leaders can purchase direct commercial sales negotiated between a government and a company and foreign military sales in the United States. In foreign military sales, a foreign government typically contacts a defence department official at the US embassy in its capital. (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.

United States arms exports to foreign governments rose 49% in fiscal 2022

A Ukrainian official appreciated the decision of the United States and Germany to provide advanced battle tanks to Kyiv to tackle Russia's aggression, however, he called these commitments “only the beginning” adding that the embattled country needs more than hundreds of tanks and further appealed for more fighter jets.&nbsp;

The head of the presidential administration of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, made the statement as the Western allies' decision was praised by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appealing to them to quickly send tanks in large quantities.&nbsp;

“The key now is speed and volumes. Speed in training our forces, speed in supplying tanks to Ukraine. The numbers in tank support,” Zelenskyy said on Wednesday night in his video address.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-all-set-to-send-leopard-2-tanks-to-ukraine-report-suggests-555700">Germany finally approves delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine on prodding by allies</a>

US and Germany to provide tanks to Ukraine

After speculations for weeks, US President Joe Biden approved providing Ukraine with 31 M1 Abrams tanks. The US changed its position after confirmation by Germany that it would send 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to Ukraine, and will also allow partner countries to re-export other tanks.&nbsp;

The decision taken by Berlin unlocked offers made by Portugal, Norway, Spain, Finland and the Netherlands to send their own Leopard tanks, which were manufactured in Germany, to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ukrainian president celebrated the “extremely good news”, as he called the decision taken by the US a “very powerful step”. “There is a tank coalition. There is a decision to launch the supply of tanks for our defence. Modern tanks,” he stated.&nbsp;

Ukraine is likely to receive Leopard 2 tanks' first instalment in three months. Zelenskyy added that he held a conversation with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and appealed to send long-range missiles and aircraft to Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | War in Ukraine: Ukraine asks for special tanks ahead of Russia's new assault

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'Fighter jets – next big hurdle'

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said that he held talks with his Polish counterpart and appealed for more fighter jets.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov's adviser Yuriy Sak said that for the country fighter jets would be “the next big hurdle”.&nbsp;

“If we get them, the advantages on the battlefield will be just immense. It’s not just F-16s. Fourth generation aircraft, this is what we want,” he stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Ukrainian official appreciated the decision of the United States and Germany to provide advanced battle tanks to Kyiv to tackle Russia's aggression, however, he called these commitments “only the beginning” adding that the embattled country needs more than hundreds of tanks and further appealed for more fighter jets.

A Ukrainian official appreciated the decision of the United States and Germany to provide advanced battle tanks to Kyiv to tackle Russia's aggression, however, he called these commitments “only the beginning” adding that the embattled country needs more than hundreds of tanks and further appealed for more fighter jets. The head of the presidential administration of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, made the statement as the Western allies' decision was praised by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appealing to them to quickly send tanks in large quantities. “The key now is speed and volumes. Speed in training our forces, speed in supplying tanks to Ukraine. The numbers in tank support,” Zelenskyy said on Wednesday night in his video address. ALSO READ | Germany finally approves delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine on prodding by allies US and Germany to provide tanks to Ukraine After speculations for weeks, US President Joe Biden approved providing Ukraine with 31 M1 Abrams tanks. The US changed its position after confirmation by Germany that it would send 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to Ukraine, and will also allow partner countries to re-export other tanks. The decision taken by Berlin unlocked offers made by Portugal, Norway, Spain, Finland and the Netherlands to send their own Leopard tanks, which were manufactured in Germany, to Ukraine. Ukrainian president celebrated the “extremely good news”, as he called the decision taken by the US a “very powerful step”. “There is a tank coalition. There is a decision to launch the supply of tanks for our defence. Modern tanks,” he stated. Ukraine is likely to receive Leopard 2 tanks' first instalment in three months. Zelenskyy added that he held a conversation with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and appealed to send long-range missiles and aircraft to Ukraine. WATCH | WION Fineprint | War in Ukraine: Ukraine asks for special tanks ahead of Russia's new assault 'Fighter jets – next big hurdle' Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said that he held talks with his Polish counterpart and appealed for more fighter jets. Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov's adviser Yuriy Sak said that for the country fighter jets would be “the next big hurdle”. “If we get them, the advantages on the battlefield will be just immense. It’s not just F-16s. Fourth generation aircraft, this is what we want,” he stated. (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

Ukraine calls pledges made by US and Germany to send tanks 'only the beginning'

After a gap of six years, United States President Joe Biden on Monday named an envoy to press North Korea on human rights. For the post, he has nominated Julie Turner, who currently heads the Asia section of the State Department's human rights bureau.

Her nomination will have to be confirmed by the Senate. As per AFP, little opposition is expected. Biden has attempted to fill&nbsp;the position a little more than halfway into his four-year term.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Meet North Korea's secret police 'Gruppa'

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The ambassador-level position was mandated by a 2004 law and it sought to draw attention to security as well as rights concerns in authoritarian North Korea.

However, for the last six years, which includes the entire presidency of Donald Trump, this position had been vacant. The last envoy, Robert King, worked under Barack Obama's presidentship and stepped down in January 2017.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-second-most-powerful-man-after-kim-jong-un-replaced-548696">North Korea's second most powerful man after Kim Jong Un replaced</a>

AFP reports that under Trump, his first secretary of state, Rex Tillerson had sought to rid of the post "as part of a corporate-style restructuring to consolidate envoy positions."

Tillerson's successor Mike Pompeo again did not fill the position as the-then president started pursuing diplomacy with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, with whom Trump once said he "fell in love". The two went on to meet thrice, but failed to reach a lasting agreement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-drone-breaches-key-no-fly-zone-claims-south-koreas-military-549734">North Korean drone breaches key no-fly zone, claims South Korea's military</a>

Recent months have witnessed a continuously increasing barrage of missile tests by Pyongyang. North Korea has also rebuffed the offer&nbsp;of lower-level diplomacy proposals by Washington and continued unleashing a tirade of rocket tests including long-range intercontinental missiles that may even be able to strike the US mainland.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After a gap of six years, United States President Joe Biden on Monday named an envoy to press North Korea on human rights. For the post, he has nominated Julie Turner, who currently heads the Asia section of the State Department's human rights bureau.

After a gap of six years, United States President Joe Biden on Monday named an envoy to press North Korea on human rights. For the post, he has nominated Julie Turner, who currently heads the Asia section of the State Department's human rights bureau. Her nomination will have to be confirmed by the Senate. As per AFP, little opposition is expected. Biden has attempted to fill the position a little more than halfway into his four-year term. Watch | Gravitas: Meet North Korea's secret police 'Gruppa' The ambassador-level position was mandated by a 2004 law and it sought to draw attention to security as well as rights concerns in authoritarian North Korea. However, for the last six years, which includes the entire presidency of Donald Trump, this position had been vacant. The last envoy, Robert King, worked under Barack Obama's presidentship and stepped down in January 2017. Also read | North Korea's second most powerful man after Kim Jong Un replaced AFP reports that under Trump, his first secretary of state, Rex Tillerson had sought to rid of the post "as part of a corporate-style restructuring to consolidate envoy positions." Tillerson's successor Mike Pompeo again did not fill the position as the-then president started pursuing diplomacy with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, with whom Trump once said he "fell in love". The two went on to meet thrice, but failed to reach a lasting agreement. Also read | North Korean drone breaches key no-fly zone, claims South Korea's military Recent months have witnessed a continuously increasing barrage of missile tests by Pyongyang. North Korea has also rebuffed the offer of lower-level diplomacy proposals by Washington and continued unleashing a tirade of rocket tests including long-range intercontinental missiles that may even be able to strike the US mainland. (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.

After a gap of six years, US nominates envoy to press North Korea on human rights

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