Developments in the case of crypto queen Ruja Ignatova have yet again taken an interesting turn despite reports of death. The story of the self-styled crypto Queen seems far from the US and is now offering a $5 million reward for information about the Onecoin founder who vanished in Athens in 2017.

US state dept announces $5 mn reward for info on Ruja Ignatova

The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on Wednesday (June 26), backed by both Democrats and Republicans, supporting&nbsp;democracy and human rights in Pakistan.

It also calls for a full investigation, independent of any influence, into claims of problems with February&nbsp;elections in that country.

Pakistan's general elections, held on February 8, were plagued by violence, with nationwide internet shutdown, arrests and oddly delayed results. These issues led to claims that the polling process had been rigged.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pakistan-elections-2024-army-modifies-methodology-of-selecting-pm-689879" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pakistan-elections-2024-army-modifies-methodology-of-selecting-pm-689879&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7t_SpvuGAxWESmwGHedsBqIQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw051PbRaFafl1iGzdlfFrF2&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pakistan-elections-2024-army-modifies-methodology-of-selecting-pm-689879" target="_blank">Pakistan elections&nbsp;2024: Army modifies methodology of selecting PM</a>

The resolution was passed by an overwhelming 368-7 vote on Tuesday and called on US President Joe Biden to tie up with Pakistan in upholding democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Lawmakers who supported the resolution titled ‘Expressing Support for Democracy and Human Rights in Pakistan’, pointed to the strong bipartisan vote as evidence of the US’ unwavering commitment to promoting democratic values globally.

The resolution emphasised the need for Pakistani public participation in the democratic process and denounced "any effort to subvert the political, electoral or judicial processes of Pakistan".

The resolution further condemns any effort to suppress the Pakistani people's democratic participation, including tactics like harassment, intimidation, violence, arbitrary detention, internet and telecommunication restrictions, or any infringement upon their fundamental human, civil, and political rights.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and PTI chief Imran Khan, who is currently in jail, are also opposing the election results. PTI was forced to field independents without their iconic bat symbol because of a legal tussle with the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Even though the PTI-backed independents won the maximum seats, Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People's Party formed a coalition government, leaving PTI and other parties in opposition.

<h2>Pakistan&nbsp;criticises resolution</h2>

Pakistan's foreign office acknowledged the US House resolution but expressed concerns that it reflects a misunderstanding of the country's political landscape and recent elections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-to-be-declared-null-and-void-all-eyes-on-supreme-court-for-key-verdict-691082" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-to-be-declared-null-and-void-all-eyes-on-supreme-court-for-key-verdict-691082&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7t_SpvuGAxWESmwGHedsBqIQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0mjwps9r11VSZbRK8hknOP&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-to-be-declared-null-and-void-all-eyes-on-supreme-court-for-key-verdict-691082" target="_blank">Pakistan Elections&nbsp;2024 to be declared null and void?</a>

"The context of this resolution do not line up well with the positive dynamics of our bilateral ties and is based on an incomplete understanding of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan," Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch was quoted as saying by Pakistan's The Express Tribune newspaper.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on Wednesday (June 26), backed by both Democrats and Republicans, supporting democracy and human rights in Pakistan.

The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on Wednesday (June 26), backed by both Democrats and Republicans, supporting democracy and human rights in Pakistan. It also calls for a full investigation, independent of any influence, into claims of problems with February elections in that country. Pakistan's general elections, held on February 8, were plagued by violence, with nationwide internet shutdown, arrests and oddly delayed results. These issues led to claims that the polling process had been rigged. Also read: Pakistan elections 2024: Army modifies methodology of selecting PM The resolution was passed by an overwhelming 368-7 vote on Tuesday and called on US President Joe Biden to tie up with Pakistan in upholding democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Lawmakers who supported the resolution titled ‘Expressing Support for Democracy and Human Rights in Pakistan’, pointed to the strong bipartisan vote as evidence of the US’ unwavering commitment to promoting democratic values globally. The resolution emphasised the need for Pakistani public participation in the democratic process and denounced "any effort to subvert the political, electoral or judicial processes of Pakistan". The resolution further condemns any effort to suppress the Pakistani people's democratic participation, including tactics like harassment, intimidation, violence, arbitrary detention, internet and telecommunication restrictions, or any infringement upon their fundamental human, civil, and political rights. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and PTI chief Imran Khan, who is currently in jail, are also opposing the election results. PTI was forced to field independents without their iconic bat symbol because of a legal tussle with the Election Commission of Pakistan. Even though the PTI-backed independents won the maximum seats, Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People's Party formed a coalition government, leaving PTI and other parties in opposition. Pakistan criticises resolution Pakistan's foreign office acknowledged the US House resolution but expressed concerns that it reflects a misunderstanding of the country's political landscape and recent elections. Also read: Pakistan Elections 2024 to be declared null and void? "The context of this resolution do not line up well with the positive dynamics of our bilateral ties and is based on an incomplete understanding of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan," Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch was quoted as saying by Pakistan's The Express Tribune newspaper. (With inputs from agencies)

US passes resolution for independent probe into Pakistan elections; Islamabad responds

Stage is set for the Trump-Biden debate on Thursday. What will be the key issues that will dominate the first debate between the two? Collins Chong Yew Keat, Foreign Affairs, Strategy and Security expert, joins us to discuss.

First US Presidential debate:  Biden vs Trump | Live Discussion

The stage is set for the Trump Biden debate on Thursday. The current Democratic President and his Republican predecessor will face off in Atlanta Georgia for the first of two debates ahead of November's Elections. Watch in for more details!

US Elections 2024: Biden and Trump to face off in first US Presidential debate

In the US a replica of statue of Abraham Lincoln was no match for sweltering temperatures that hit Washington DC this week, causing the statue to partially melt and the head to fall off. Watch in for more details!

Sweltering heat melts Lincoln wax statue replica in Washington

A New York judge eased a gag order on Tuesday that was imposed on Former US President Donald Trump during his criminal trial which saw him convicted of 34 counts. Watch in for more details!

US: Judge partially lifts Trump's hush money gag order

The US surgeon general on Tuesday issued a landmark advisory declaring gun violence a "public health crisis" and calling for wide-ranging firearm controls that have historically been quashed by stiff political opposition.

The advisory by Vivek Murthy, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, is the first such major report on gun violence from a surgeon general, whose office has limited authority but plays a significant public role in health issues.

A similar report on tobacco in the 1960s was a key first step to altering the perception of the substance's danger, ultimately leading to new regulations and a steep decline in consumption.

"Firearm violence is an urgent public health crisis that has led to loss of life, unimaginable pain, and profound grief for far too many Americans," Murthy said.

"We don't have to continue down this path, and we don't have to subject our children to the ongoing horror of firearm violence in America."

The report cites government and other data that shows the United States is an extreme outlier on deaths and injuries from guns, especially for children.

Firearms in recent years have become the leading cause of deaths for Americans aged 1-19, above motor vehicles, the report said.

But the influential NRA gun rights organization quickly slammed the advisory as "an extension of the Biden Administration's war on law-abiding gun owners."

"America has a crime problem caused by criminals," said Randy Kozuch, director the NRA's lobby arm, said on X.

<h2>48,000 killed each year</h2>

The surgeon general's report said in 2022 over 48,000 people died as a result of firearms, disproportionately affecting Black Americans and men.

It added that suicides had increased by 20.1 percent from 2012-2022 and represented over half of gun-related deaths.

"It will take the collective commitment of our nation to turn the tide on firearm violence," Murthy said, calling for investments in research, community education programs, mental health support and tighter controls on buying guns.

The report also calls for mandating safe firearm storage, implementing universal background checks and banning assault weapons.

Biden and gun control activists have called for similar steps as the United States endures frequent mass shootings -- including in schools -- but reforms have been stymied for decades by opposition from the firearm lobby and Republican lawmakers.

Executive actions and state initiatives to tackle gun deaths have been attacked in court as infringing on the constitutional right to own a firearm, enshrined in the Second Amendment.

"Many people I talked to around the country worry that this may be an intractable problem, that there's no way to solve it -- that is not true," Murthy told CNN.

"My hope (with) this advisory is that we can actually take it out of the realm of politics and put it into the realm of public health, which is where it belongs.

Murthy also hailed a 2022 gun safety package passed by Congress -- the most notable in decades -- that beefed up background checks and supported states passing so-called "Red Flag" laws, which allow for the seizure of weapons from people deemed high risk.

In a speech in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said the legislation -- the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act -- had stopped 800 firearm purchases "by young people who are legally prohibited from obtaining guns."

Garland also said that the Justice Department that day had published an interim final rule allowing gun dealers to check an FBI database to see whether firearms being sold to them had been reported as stolen.

Such checks, however, remain voluntary, the Department of Justice said. 
&nbsp;

The US surgeon general on Tuesday issued a landmark advisory declaring gun violence a "public health crisis" and calling for wide-ranging firearm controls that have historically been quashed by stiff political opposition.

The US surgeon general on Tuesday issued a landmark advisory declaring gun violence a "public health crisis" and calling for wide-ranging firearm controls that have historically been quashed by stiff political opposition. The advisory by Vivek Murthy, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, is the first such major report on gun violence from a surgeon general, whose office has limited authority but plays a significant public role in health issues. A similar report on tobacco in the 1960s was a key first step to altering the perception of the substance's danger, ultimately leading to new regulations and a steep decline in consumption. "Firearm violence is an urgent public health crisis that has led to loss of life, unimaginable pain, and profound grief for far too many Americans," Murthy said. "We don't have to continue down this path, and we don't have to subject our children to the ongoing horror of firearm violence in America." The report cites government and other data that shows the United States is an extreme outlier on deaths and injuries from guns, especially for children. Firearms in recent years have become the leading cause of deaths for Americans aged 1-19, above motor vehicles, the report said. But the influential NRA gun rights organization quickly slammed the advisory as "an extension of the Biden Administration's war on law-abiding gun owners." "America has a crime problem caused by criminals," said Randy Kozuch, director the NRA's lobby arm, said on X. 48,000 killed each year The surgeon general's report said in 2022 over 48,000 people died as a result of firearms, disproportionately affecting Black Americans and men. It added that suicides had increased by 20.1 percent from 2012-2022 and represented over half of gun-related deaths. "It will take the collective commitment of our nation to turn the tide on firearm violence," Murthy said, calling for investments in research, community education programs, mental health support and tighter controls on buying guns. The report also calls for mandating safe firearm storage, implementing universal background checks and banning assault weapons. Biden and gun control activists have called for similar steps as the United States endures frequent mass shootings -- including in schools -- but reforms have been stymied for decades by opposition from the firearm lobby and Republican lawmakers. Executive actions and state initiatives to tackle gun deaths have been attacked in court as infringing on the constitutional right to own a firearm, enshrined in the Second Amendment. "Many people I talked to around the country worry that this may be an intractable problem, that there's no way to solve it -- that is not true," Murthy told CNN. "My hope (with) this advisory is that we can actually take it out of the realm of politics and put it into the realm of public health, which is where it belongs. Murthy also hailed a 2022 gun safety package passed by Congress -- the most notable in decades -- that beefed up background checks and supported states passing so-called "Red Flag" laws, which allow for the seizure of weapons from people deemed high risk. In a speech in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said the legislation -- the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act -- had stopped 800 firearm purchases "by young people who are legally prohibited from obtaining guns." Garland also said that the Justice Department that day had published an interim final rule allowing gun dealers to check an FBI database to see whether firearms being sold to them had been reported as stolen. Such checks, however, remain voluntary, the Department of Justice said.

US surgeon general declares gun violence a 'public health crisis'

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon on Tuesday, warning that a conflict between Israel and Hezbollah could spark a regional war and urging a diplomatic solution.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warns Israel-Hezbollah conflict could spark regional war

Newly released images taken by the FBI during its search of former United States President Donald Trump’s resort in the US state of Florida, Mar-a-Lago, shows the haphazard way in which the Republican had allegedly stored the sensitive information.&nbsp;

<h2>'Haphazard manner'</h2>

The 33-page filing submitted by prosecutors, on Monday (Jun 24) working on Special Counsel Jack Smith’s team which is investigating Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents dismissed the argument made by his lawyers who said that the case should be tossed as the order of documents in the boxes was slightly changed.&nbsp;

The prosecutors also took this opportunity to release previously unseen photos taken by the FBI during its August 2022 search of Trump’s estate in Florida, Mar-a-Lago and note the “haphazard manner” in which the documents were stored.&nbsp;

In the images, documents containing sensitive information were seen stored alongside clothing, picture frames, cases of Diet Coke, red MAGA (Make America Great Again) hats and Christmas ornaments.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gags-up-trump-gets-partial-reprieve-ahead-of-debate-with-joe-biden-735130">Gag's up! Trump gets partial reprieve ahead of debate with Joe Biden</a>

According to the prosecutors, the boxes retrieved from the former president’s estate contained “all manner of items, including, for example, papers of varying sizes, from folded large-format items to tiny notes; clothing; picture frames; shoes; magazines; newspapers; newspaper clippings; correspondence; greeting cards; binders; and Christmas ornaments."

<img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b185241d-fb90-4dff-b441-c675282fbb3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-06-26T094509.478.png" />

<img alt="2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be0f7bfd-032c-483b-8785-347010a5f66c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-06-26T094641.413.png" />

<img alt="3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93d834ae-8617-4a93-a744-37b24f181e0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-06-26T094721.435.png" />

<img alt="4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="893e32a5-9ce1-4891-84ed-c0d588cbb293" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-06-26T100039.494.png" />

<img alt="5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52347227-e59f-4ccc-aca7-5eb691fec4fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-06-26T100059.557.png" />

(Photo credit: Reuters/US&nbsp;Department of Justice)

In the filing, the prosecutors acknowledged that some documents were recorded slightly out of order but to dismiss the case based on this premise would be “absurd".

“The notion that the precise ordering of materials within these boxes possessed any exculpatory value that would be apparent to the Filter Team when they opened the boxes is absurd,” they wrote.&nbsp;

The filing came after the former president’s lawyers asked the presiding US district judge Aileen Cannon to dismiss the charges against Trump since the evidence was spoiled and it would affect the defence’s ability to make their argument.&nbsp;

<h2>Judge does not agree with search warrant argument</h2>

While Smith’s investigation into Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents has been indefinitely delayed, Cannon is considering a series of motions filed by the former president’s legal team in hopes of getting the case dismissed.&nbsp;

In connection to one such bid, on Tuesday (Jun 25), the judge seemed sceptical about the claims that there was an issue with the warrant the FBI obtained to search the former president’s Mar-a-Lago estate.&nbsp;

This comes after Trump’s lawyers argued at a recent court hearing that the 2022 search warrant was overly broad and violated the former president’s rights.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-declares-julian-assange-a-free-man-as-he-pleads-guilty-in-wikileaks-espionage-case-735141">Judge declares Julian Assange 'a free man' as he pleads guilty in WikiLeaks espionage case</a>

They also alleged that the federal agents took medical records and improperly entered the rooms of Barron, his son, and Melania, Trump’s wife, during the search.&nbsp;

However, Cannon said she had “a hard time seeing” any problems with the warrant noting that the language in the order which a magistrate judge signed off on&nbsp;seems to have been sufficient.

A formal ruling on Trump’s bid to get the case and the evidence collected thrown out is still pending and Cannon did not indicate when she would issue a verdict.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Newly released images taken by the FBI during its search of former United States President Donald Trump’s resort in the US state of Florida, Mar-a-Lago, shows the haphazard way in which the Republican had allegedly stored the sensitive information.

Newly released images taken by the FBI during its search of former United States President Donald Trump’s resort in the US state of Florida, Mar-a-Lago, shows the haphazard way in which the Republican had allegedly stored the sensitive information. 'Haphazard manner' The 33-page filing submitted by prosecutors, on Monday (Jun 24) working on Special Counsel Jack Smith’s team which is investigating Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents dismissed the argument made by his lawyers who said that the case should be tossed as the order of documents in the boxes was slightly changed. The prosecutors also took this opportunity to release previously unseen photos taken by the FBI during its August 2022 search of Trump’s estate in Florida, Mar-a-Lago and note the “haphazard manner” in which the documents were stored. In the images, documents containing sensitive information were seen stored alongside clothing, picture frames, cases of Diet Coke, red MAGA (Make America Great Again) hats and Christmas ornaments. Also Read | Gag's up! Trump gets partial reprieve ahead of debate with Joe Biden According to the prosecutors, the boxes retrieved from the former president’s estate contained “all manner of items, including, for example, papers of varying sizes, from folded large-format items to tiny notes; clothing; picture frames; shoes; magazines; newspapers; newspaper clippings; correspondence; greeting cards; binders; and Christmas ornaments." (Photo credit: Reuters/US Department of Justice) In the filing, the prosecutors acknowledged that some documents were recorded slightly out of order but to dismiss the case based on this premise would be “absurd". “The notion that the precise ordering of materials within these boxes possessed any exculpatory value that would be apparent to the Filter Team when they opened the boxes is absurd,” they wrote. The filing came after the former president’s lawyers asked the presiding US district judge Aileen Cannon to dismiss the charges against Trump since the evidence was spoiled and it would affect the defence’s ability to make their argument. Judge does not agree with search warrant argument While Smith’s investigation into Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents has been indefinitely delayed, Cannon is considering a series of motions filed by the former president’s legal team in hopes of getting the case dismissed. In connection to one such bid, on Tuesday (Jun 25), the judge seemed sceptical about the claims that there was an issue with the warrant the FBI obtained to search the former president’s Mar-a-Lago estate. This comes after Trump’s lawyers argued at a recent court hearing that the 2022 search warrant was overly broad and violated the former president’s rights. Also Read | Judge declares Julian Assange 'a free man' as he pleads guilty in WikiLeaks espionage case They also alleged that the federal agents took medical records and improperly entered the rooms of Barron, his son, and Melania, Trump’s wife, during the search. However, Cannon said she had “a hard time seeing” any problems with the warrant noting that the language in the order which a magistrate judge signed off on seems to have been sufficient. A formal ruling on Trump’s bid to get the case and the evidence collected thrown out is still pending and Cannon did not indicate when she would issue a verdict. (With inputs from agencies)

New images show Trump’s ‘haphazard’ storage of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago: Prosecutors

Headlines of the hour: - UK: Labour maintains lead in poll survey - Assange's release: Australian PM thanks U.S. and UK - China intercepts U.S. Submarine detectors - U.S. Congress seeks probe in Pak polls - Gallant presses Hamas to accept truce deal - Kenya's Ruto withdraws controversial tax bill

UK: Labour maintains lead in poll survey | US Congress seeks probe in Pak polls

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Bitcoin has a big role to play in the financial journey of WikiLeaks and its controversial founder, Julian Assange. From being blacklisted by major payment processors to amassing $244 million in bitcoin donations, WikiLeaks has leveraged the power of cryptocurrency to fund its mission.

Gravitas | How Bitcoin donations fund WikiLeaks defence

Russia has again raised dangers of further escalation of the situation in Ukraine due to the continued supply of weapons to Kyiv. the Russian defense minister Andre Bosov spoke to his American counterpart Lloyd Austin over the phone on Tuesday. The latest interaction comes on the back of the Kremlin warning the United States of consequences.

Kremlin warned US of 'consequences' after Crimea strike

Russia-Ukraine war: Weapons supplied to Kyiv becomes a sore point for Moscow

US Court partially lifts Donald Trump's gag order ahead of 1st Presidential debate

Former US President Donald Trump's key advisors have presented him with the plan to win Russia's war in Ukraine if he wins the presidential election that's scheduled to take place later this year. Watch in for more details!

US Elections: Trump says, 'will end Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours if elected'

US defense secretary Lloyd Austin met his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon on Tuesday. During the meeting Austin warned that a conflict between Israel and Hezbollah can spark a regional war. Watch in for more details!

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says, 'Israel-Hezbollah conflict could spark regional war'

US: Trump's gag order partially lifted ahead of Presidential debate

Japan's government is calling for increased supervision of US troops stationed in the country after a US soldier was charged over the alleged sexual assault of a Japanese teenager in Okinawa.

The prosecutors in the southern island region charged the US soldier in March, top government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters on Tuesday (June 25).

According to the local media, the 25-year-old man allegedly assaulted her on 24 December and he was identified through security camera footage after the girls' family reported it.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-uk-royalty-ties-japanese-emperor-empress-begins-uk-visit-world-news-wion-734386" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-uk-royalty-ties-japanese-emperor-empress-begins-uk-visit-world-news-wion-734386&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiA3qnfnPmGAxWGSGwGHa5dDjoQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0HHEJkzMJHgCICwrSGZ9F9&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-uk-royalty-ties-japanese-emperor-empress-begins-uk-visit-world-news-wion-734386" target="_blank">Japan-UK royalty ties:&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;Emperor &amp; Empress begins UK visit</a>

The Japanese government expressed regret to US Ambassador Rahm Emanuel over the incident and called for stronger oversight of behaviour by military personnel, Hayashi said.

Okinawa, despite comprising just 0.6 percent of Japan's land area, accommodates approximately 70% of all US military bases and facilities in the country. The islands are home to more than half of the 54,000 US soldiers serving in Japan.

Residents have faced numerous issues stemming from these bases, including pollution, noise, and helicopter crashes, leading to widespread complaints about bearing the primary burden of hosting troops.

Notably, in 1995 gang rape of a 12-year-old girl by three US soldiers in Okinawa prompted widespread calls for a change of a 1960 pact that outlined the legal status of Japan-based US military personnel.

Okinawa governor Denny Tamaki said, “The act committed against a minor not only instills fear among local residents coexisting with US bases but also violates the dignity of women.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-joins-us-in-sanctioning-china-over-support-for-russias-war-733823" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-joins-us-in-sanctioning-china-over-support-for-russias-war-733823&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiA3qnfnPmGAxWGSGwGHa5dDjoQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1LOIWrkoJ1jPgG7akxv1lA&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-joins-us-in-sanctioning-china-over-support-for-russias-war-733823" target="_blank">Japan&nbsp;joins US in sanctioning China over support for Russia's war</a>

"The extreme burden of hosting military bases is an everyday matter for us, and is intolerable," he added.

A nationwide poll conducted by broadcaster NHK in 2022 revealed that 80% of Japanese view the current disproportionate distribution of United States forces as wrong or somewhat wrong.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan's government is calling for increased supervision of US troops stationed in the country after a US soldier was charged over the alleged sexual assault of a Japanese teenager in Okinawa.

Japan's government is calling for increased supervision of US troops stationed in the country after a US soldier was charged over the alleged sexual assault of a Japanese teenager in Okinawa. The prosecutors in the southern island region charged the US soldier in March, top government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters on Tuesday (June 25). According to the local media, the 25-year-old man allegedly assaulted her on 24 December and he was identified through security camera footage after the girls' family reported it. Also read: Japan-UK royalty ties: Japanese Emperor & Empress begins UK visit The Japanese government expressed regret to US Ambassador Rahm Emanuel over the incident and called for stronger oversight of behaviour by military personnel, Hayashi said. Okinawa, despite comprising just 0.6 percent of Japan's land area, accommodates approximately 70% of all US military bases and facilities in the country. The islands are home to more than half of the 54,000 US soldiers serving in Japan. Residents have faced numerous issues stemming from these bases, including pollution, noise, and helicopter crashes, leading to widespread complaints about bearing the primary burden of hosting troops. Notably, in 1995 gang rape of a 12-year-old girl by three US soldiers in Okinawa prompted widespread calls for a change of a 1960 pact that outlined the legal status of Japan-based US military personnel. Okinawa governor Denny Tamaki said, “The act committed against a minor not only instills fear among local residents coexisting with US bases but also violates the dignity of women.” Also read: Japan joins US in sanctioning China over support for Russia's war "The extreme burden of hosting military bases is an everyday matter for us, and is intolerable," he added. A nationwide poll conducted by broadcaster NHK in 2022 revealed that 80% of Japanese view the current disproportionate distribution of United States forces as wrong or somewhat wrong. (With inputs from agencies)

US soldier charged in Japan's Okinawa for rape of minor

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon on Tuesday and during the meeting Austin warned that a conflict between Israel and Hezbollah can spark a regional war and he also urged to look for a diplomatic solution to the issues.

US seeks diplomatic solution to end Israel-Hezbollah war

A letter written by Albert Einstein in 1939 to then-United States President Franklin D Roosevelt warning that Nazi Germany might harness nuclear research to invent an atomic bomb, which encouraged the US to develop the world’s first nuclear bombs, is going up for auction.&nbsp;

<h2>Auction to be held in September</h2>

The two-page message co-authored by Einstein was sent to FDR warning him about the progress that Nazi Germany was making in nuclear research which the country could potentially use to make “extremely powerful bombs”.&nbsp;

The US president, spooked by the information, formed a committee which served as a precursor to the J Robert Oppenheimer-headed Manhattan Project which eventually led to the creation and first-ever use of atomic weapons, against Japan, in 1945, during World War II.&nbsp;

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The pivotal letter dated August 2, 1939, is now going up for sale at Christie’s auctioneers in September and is estimated to fetch as much as $4 million.&nbsp;

The letter is being sold as a part of the Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s estate who died in 2018 at the age of 65.&nbsp;

<h2>About the letter</h2>

The letter was written by the renowned physicist along with a fellow scientist, Leo Szilard, in a cabin in Long Island, New York.&nbsp;

Notably, Einstein’s original letter to FDR is being kept at the Franklin D Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York.

However, the physicist also wrote and signed a second, slightly shorter version of the letter which was held on to by Szilard for safekeeping and that is the one that will be up for auction in the upcoming months.&nbsp;

The two-page typed letter, as per the Wall Street Journal, starts bluntly and states, “Sir: Recent work in nuclear physics made it probable that uranium may be turned into a new and important source of energy.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeaus-debacle-in-canadas-raise-questions-over-his-political-longevity-735202">Trudeau's debacle in Canada raises questions about his 'political longevity'</a>

The letter could reportedly attract quality bidders amid concerns about a three-way nuclear race between the US, China, and Russia and the success of the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer biopic, which was released last year.

Marc Porter, chairman of Christie’s Americas, told the WSJ that the Microsoft co-founder “undoubtedly knew it was one of the most important documents in the history of the 20th century, and that’s not the kind of thing you just hang in your office.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A letter written by Albert Einstein in 1939 to then-United States President Franklin D Roosevelt warning that Nazi Germany might harness nuclear research to invent an atomic bomb, which encouraged the US to develop the world’s first nuclear bombs, is going up for auction.

A letter written by Albert Einstein in 1939 to then-United States President Franklin D Roosevelt warning that Nazi Germany might harness nuclear research to invent an atomic bomb, which encouraged the US to develop the world’s first nuclear bombs, is going up for auction. Auction to be held in September The two-page message co-authored by Einstein was sent to FDR warning him about the progress that Nazi Germany was making in nuclear research which the country could potentially use to make “extremely powerful bombs”. The US president, spooked by the information, formed a committee which served as a precursor to the J Robert Oppenheimer-headed Manhattan Project which eventually led to the creation and first-ever use of atomic weapons, against Japan, in 1945, during World War II. Also Read | Judge declares Julian Assange 'a free man' as he pleads guilty in WikiLeaks espionage case The pivotal letter dated August 2, 1939, is now going up for sale at Christie’s auctioneers in September and is estimated to fetch as much as $4 million. The letter is being sold as a part of the Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s estate who died in 2018 at the age of 65. About the letter The letter was written by the renowned physicist along with a fellow scientist, Leo Szilard, in a cabin in Long Island, New York. Notably, Einstein’s original letter to FDR is being kept at the Franklin D Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York. However, the physicist also wrote and signed a second, slightly shorter version of the letter which was held on to by Szilard for safekeeping and that is the one that will be up for auction in the upcoming months. The two-page typed letter, as per the Wall Street Journal, starts bluntly and states, “Sir: Recent work in nuclear physics made it probable that uranium may be turned into a new and important source of energy.” Also Read | Trudeau's debacle in Canada raises questions about his 'political longevity' The letter could reportedly attract quality bidders amid concerns about a three-way nuclear race between the US, China, and Russia and the success of the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer biopic, which was released last year. Marc Porter, chairman of Christie’s Americas, told the WSJ that the Microsoft co-founder “undoubtedly knew it was one of the most important documents in the history of the 20th century, and that’s not the kind of thing you just hang in your office.” (With inputs from agencies)

Einstein’s letter warning FDR about threat of Nazi nuclear bomb may sell for $4 million

US Elections: Trump's hush money gag order partially eased

Russia warned US of 'consequences' after Crimea strike; vows escalation in Ukraine

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange walked out of the courtroom in Saipan as a free man for the first time in 12 years. Watch to know more.

Julian Assange walks free, his case hearing is in remote US territory

A local court in Washington DC, United States, on Tuesday (Jun 25) suspended the law licence of US President Joe Biden’s son, Hunter, after he was convicted on federal gun charges&nbsp;earlier this month.&nbsp;

<h2>Hunter Biden’s law licence suspended</h2>

The Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia issued an order “immediately” suspending Hunter Biden’s law licence after what they called “serious crimes” under the district’s bar rule.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Hunter was found guilty by a jury on all three federal felony gun charges against him in Wilmington, Delaware.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Hunter Biden's attorneys seeking new trial in Federal Gun case

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The court also hinted at more severe repercussions and directed its attorney disciplinary arm, the Board on Professional Responsibility, to “institute a formal disciplinary proceeding”.&nbsp;

The board also warned that it could recommend that Hunter be disbarred if the formal proceedings to determine the nature of the offences find that the crime he committed involved “moral turpitude”.&nbsp;

On June 11, a jury in Wilmington found Hunter guilty of three felony counts tied to possession of a gun while using narcotics. The first son had pleaded not guilty in the case. So far, no sentencing date has been set.&nbsp;

<h2>Hunter Biden’s lawyers seek new trial</h2>

Hunter’s lawyers, on Monday (Jun 24) requested a new trial claiming that there was a procedural issue in the timing of the early June trial which led to his conviction.&nbsp;

The first son’s lawyer said that the court did not have jurisdiction over his case because of appeals that he had filed challenging his prosecution.&nbsp;

In the filing, Hunter’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, argued his client’s conviction “should be vacated” because the trial began without the issuance of a “mandate” from the appeals court, which should have allowed the trial to proceed.&nbsp;

The “mandate” effectively notifies a lower court of the ruling made by a higher court in an appeal.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-turns-his-delaware-home-into-personal-atm-earns-42-mln-from-350k-property-735160">Joe Biden turns his Delaware home into 'personal ATM', earns $4.2mn from $350K property: Report</a>

The first son’s lawyers had filed a motion for a new trial on June 17 but swiftly deleted the request.&nbsp;

Hunter was found guilty of lying on a gun application that he used to buy a Colt Cobra 38 Special revolver in 2018 by not disclosing his drug addiction.

The charges against him carry a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and fines of $750,000. However, this sentence is unlikely for first-time offenders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A local court in Washington DC, United States, on Tuesday (Jun 25) suspended the law licence of US President Joe Biden’s son, Hunter, after he was convicted on federal gun charges earlier this month.

A local court in Washington DC, United States, on Tuesday (Jun 25) suspended the law licence of US President Joe Biden’s son, Hunter, after he was convicted on federal gun charges earlier this month. Hunter Biden’s law licence suspended The Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia issued an order “immediately” suspending Hunter Biden’s law licence after what they called “serious crimes” under the district’s bar rule. Earlier this month, Hunter was found guilty by a jury on all three federal felony gun charges against him in Wilmington, Delaware. WATCH | Hunter Biden's attorneys seeking new trial in Federal Gun case The court also hinted at more severe repercussions and directed its attorney disciplinary arm, the Board on Professional Responsibility, to “institute a formal disciplinary proceeding”. The board also warned that it could recommend that Hunter be disbarred if the formal proceedings to determine the nature of the offences find that the crime he committed involved “moral turpitude”. On June 11, a jury in Wilmington found Hunter guilty of three felony counts tied to possession of a gun while using narcotics. The first son had pleaded not guilty in the case. So far, no sentencing date has been set. Hunter Biden’s lawyers seek new trial Hunter’s lawyers, on Monday (Jun 24) requested a new trial claiming that there was a procedural issue in the timing of the early June trial which led to his conviction. The first son’s lawyer said that the court did not have jurisdiction over his case because of appeals that he had filed challenging his prosecution. In the filing, Hunter’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, argued his client’s conviction “should be vacated” because the trial began without the issuance of a “mandate” from the appeals court, which should have allowed the trial to proceed. The “mandate” effectively notifies a lower court of the ruling made by a higher court in an appeal. Also Read | Joe Biden turns his Delaware home into 'personal ATM', earns $4.2mn from $350K property: Report The first son’s lawyers had filed a motion for a new trial on June 17 but swiftly deleted the request. Hunter was found guilty of lying on a gun application that he used to buy a Colt Cobra 38 Special revolver in 2018 by not disclosing his drug addiction. The charges against him carry a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and fines of $750,000. However, this sentence is unlikely for first-time offenders. (With inputs from agencies)

Hunter Biden’s law license suspended in Washington DC after conviction in gun case

Lucas McClish, a California hiker who went missing on June 11, was found by a rescue team in the mountains after 10 days, the Santa Cruz County’s Office said.

McClish embarked on his brief three-hour hike into the mountains but somehow failed to navigate the route when he could not find the familiar landmarks due to previous wildfires in the area.

His family filed a missing report on June 16 when he did not show up for a Father's Day gathering.&nbsp; 
 
This triggered a search effort that went on for several days before McClish was finally tracked.

“Deputies responded with State Parks, Cal Fire and Boulder Creek Fire Department and were able to confirm it was Lukas McClish, who had been missing since Tuesday, June 11,” the County office wrote on social media in a posting.

The Cal Fire, who helped the officials of Santa Cruz County, in a post on the official X account said, “multiple reports of witnesses hearing someone yelling for help, but the location of that person was hard to establish”.&nbsp;

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CAL FIRE CZU firefighters assisted <a href="https://twitter.com/SantaCruzSO1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SantaCruzSO1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BoulderCreekFD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BoulderCreekFD</a> with a rescue in Big Basin State Parks last night. There were multiple reports of witnesses hearing someone yelling for help, but the location of that person was hard to establish. READ MORE ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/tQxHvVPVJO">pic.twitter.com/tQxHvVPVJO</a>
— CAL FIRE CZU (@CALFIRECZU) <a href="https://twitter.com/CALFIRECZU/status/1804211716429140441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-tallest-male-dog-kevin-from-passes-away-leaving-owners-devastated-735048">World's tallest male dog Kevin from passes away, leaving owners devastated</a>

<h2>McClish survived on water alone</h2>

McClish in an interview with ABC 7 revealed that he drank almost a gallon of water every day to survive.

“I just made sure I drank a gallon of water every day, but then after, getting close to the end of it, my body needed food and some kind of sustenance,” he said.&nbsp;

He said that used to store water in his boots to keep himself hydrated.

"I go up a canyon, down a canyon to the next waterfall and sit down by the waterfall and drink water out of my boot,” KSBW quoted him as saying.

As per the local media reports, he ate wild berries and slept on wet leaves while screaming for help.

"‘Help, help. I’m over here, Or ‘Is anybody out there? I want a burrito and a taco bowl,’ that’s what I thought about every day when after the first five days, when I started to kind of realize that I might be in over my head,” New York Post quoted him as saying. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Lucas McClish, a California hiker who went missing on June 11, was found by a rescue team in the mountains after 10 days, the Santa Cruz County’s Office said. McClish embarked on his brief three-hour hike into the mountains but somehow failed to navigate the route when he could not find the familiar landmarks due to previous wildfires in the area.

Lucas McClish, a California hiker who went missing on June 11, was found by a rescue team in the mountains after 10 days, the Santa Cruz County’s Office said. McClish embarked on his brief three-hour hike into the mountains but somehow failed to navigate the route when he could not find the familiar landmarks due to previous wildfires in the area. His family filed a missing report on June 16 when he did not show up for a Father's Day gathering. This triggered a search effort that went on for several days before McClish was finally tracked. “Deputies responded with State Parks, Cal Fire and Boulder Creek Fire Department and were able to confirm it was Lukas McClish, who had been missing since Tuesday, June 11,” the County office wrote on social media in a posting. The Cal Fire, who helped the officials of Santa Cruz County, in a post on the official X account said, “multiple reports of witnesses hearing someone yelling for help, but the location of that person was hard to establish”. CAL FIRE CZU firefighters assisted @SantaCruzSO1 @BoulderCreekFD with a rescue in Big Basin State Parks last night. There were multiple reports of witnesses hearing someone yelling for help, but the location of that person was hard to establish. READ MORE ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/tQxHvVPVJO — CAL FIRE CZU (@CALFIRECZU) June 21, 2024 × Also read: World's tallest male dog Kevin from passes away, leaving owners devastated McClish survived on water alone McClish in an interview with ABC 7 revealed that he drank almost a gallon of water every day to survive. “I just made sure I drank a gallon of water every day, but then after, getting close to the end of it, my body needed food and some kind of sustenance,” he said. He said that used to store water in his boots to keep himself hydrated. "I go up a canyon, down a canyon to the next waterfall and sit down by the waterfall and drink water out of my boot,” KSBW quoted him as saying. As per the local media reports, he ate wild berries and slept on wet leaves while screaming for help. "‘Help, help. I’m over here, Or ‘Is anybody out there? I want a burrito and a taco bowl,’ that’s what I thought about every day when after the first five days, when I started to kind of realize that I might be in over my head,” New York Post quoted him as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

California hiker missing for 10 days survived on wild berries and water stored in boots

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange walked free from a court on the U.S. Pacific island territory of Saipan. He pleaded guilty to violating U.S. espionage law, in a deal that will see him return home to Australia. Watch this video for all details.

Wikileaks founder Julian Assange now a free man after pleading guilty in Saipan

Wikileaks founder Julian Assange will plead guilty to a felony charge in a deal with the US Justice Department that will free him and end his imprisonment in Britain, he is then expected to return home to Australia.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will plead guilty in deal with US

Amid the growing escalation between Israel and Lebanon, the IDF has claimed fresh attacks against Hezbollah. Israeli fighter jets struck military targets inside South Lebanon and this comes as US continues to urge de-escalation between the two. Watch in for more details!

US urges Israel for Gaza ceasefire, de-escalation with Lebanon

For the first time since the war broke out in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sat down with the Israeli media where he said he is ready for a partial deal with Hamas to return some hostages and further outlined that the intense fighting in Gaza's Rafah city is coming to an end.

Israel-Hamas War | Israeli defence minister in Washington

Russia has accused the United States of being responsible for a deadly Ukrainian attack on the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula. The attack, which used five US-supplied missiles, resulted in the deaths of at least five individuals, including three children, and left 124 others injured. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia vows retaliation against US for Ukraine strike on Crimea

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