US and Philippine armed forces fired missiles and artillery to thwart a simulated invasion in the Philippines' northern waters facing Taiwan on the 6th of May. Couple of days later, a decommissioned China-made Philippine ship was sunk by the allied forces during the South China sea war games.

US & Philippine forces thwart simulated invasion

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledges unwavering support for Ukraine on Tuesday in a visit to Kyiv, following the approval of a $61 billion financial aid package by Congress. Watch in for more details!

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Kyiv to pledge support

At least eight people have been killed and dozens of others have been hospitalised after a bus carrying more than 50 migrant farm workers crashed, on Tuesday (May 14) morning, said local officials.&nbsp;A truck driver involved in the deadly bus collision was later&nbsp;arrested on manslaughter charges.

<h2>What we know about the deadly crash</h2>

The accident took place in Marion County at around 6:35 am (local time), said the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.&nbsp;

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash involved a retired school bus and a Ford Ranger truck and it took place on State Road 40.

The two vehicles were reportedly travelling in opposite directions on the road and sideswiped each other, said the highway patrol.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-prison-van-attack-two-officers-killed-inmate-on-the-run-after-ambush-721405">France prison van attack: Manhunt launched after 2 officers killed and inmate freed</a>

The bus was going west, and the pickup truck was travelling east when for “unknown reasons” the Ford “travelled towards the centreline”.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the bus left the road, crashed through a fence and hit a tree before it overturned. Images and videos from the site show the bus lying on its side in a field off the highway.&nbsp;

<h2>About the victims</h2>

At least eight people had been killed at the site while around 45 people were left injured. The Marion County Fire Rescue out of the 40 people hospitalised, eight were critically injured and there were some 53 patients total in the crash.&nbsp;

According to the FHP, the driver of the pickup truck was also taken to the hospital after the individual sustained serious injuries.&nbsp;

Pat Riordan of the Florida Highway Patrol told reporters on Tuesday afternoon that there is a “high probability” that the death toll could rise as some of those hospitalised are “in very serious condition”.&nbsp;

“At this point, we are conducting a massive traffic homicide investigation,” said Riordan, adding that it will probably take them at least six months to “conclude factually what transpired here today”. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-bans-russian-uranium-imports-crucial-for-nuclear-fuel-supply-721208">US bans Russian uranium imports, crucial for nuclear fuel supply, but waivers could make it toothless</a>

The workers were headed to Cannon Farms, which harvests watermelons in the city of Dunnellon.&nbsp;

“They are hard-working individuals and there is absolutely nothing wrong with them being here,” Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods told reporters at the site of the accident after being asked if the workers on board were undocumented, as quoted by The Independent.&nbsp;

The sheriff’s office also took to their Facebook page and was forced to clarify that no children had been involved in the crash after rumours quickly spread.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

At least eight people have been killed and dozens of others have been hospitalised after a bus carrying more than 50 migrant farm workers crashed, on Tuesday (May 14) morning, said local officials.

At least eight people have been killed and dozens of others have been hospitalised after a bus carrying more than 50 migrant farm workers crashed, on Tuesday (May 14) morning, said local officials. A truck driver involved in the deadly bus collision was later arrested on manslaughter charges. What we know about the deadly crash The accident took place in Marion County at around 6:35 am (local time), said the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash involved a retired school bus and a Ford Ranger truck and it took place on State Road 40. The two vehicles were reportedly travelling in opposite directions on the road and sideswiped each other, said the highway patrol. Also Read | France prison van attack: Manhunt launched after 2 officers killed and inmate freed The bus was going west, and the pickup truck was travelling east when for “unknown reasons” the Ford “travelled towards the centreline”. Subsequently, the bus left the road, crashed through a fence and hit a tree before it overturned. Images and videos from the site show the bus lying on its side in a field off the highway. About the victims At least eight people had been killed at the site while around 45 people were left injured. The Marion County Fire Rescue out of the 40 people hospitalised, eight were critically injured and there were some 53 patients total in the crash. According to the FHP, the driver of the pickup truck was also taken to the hospital after the individual sustained serious injuries. Pat Riordan of the Florida Highway Patrol told reporters on Tuesday afternoon that there is a “high probability” that the death toll could rise as some of those hospitalised are “in very serious condition”. “At this point, we are conducting a massive traffic homicide investigation,” said Riordan, adding that it will probably take them at least six months to “conclude factually what transpired here today”. Also Read | US bans Russian uranium imports, crucial for nuclear fuel supply, but waivers could make it toothless The workers were headed to Cannon Farms, which harvests watermelons in the city of Dunnellon. “They are hard-working individuals and there is absolutely nothing wrong with them being here,” Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods told reporters at the site of the accident after being asked if the workers on board were undocumented, as quoted by The Independent. The sheriff’s office also took to their Facebook page and was forced to clarify that no children had been involved in the crash after rumours quickly spread. (With inputs from agencies)

Florida bus crash: At least 8 killed, dozens injured; accused driver arrested

There's a new covid variant called KP.2 under the name FLiRT that has emerged in the US, UK and India. These new variant mutants are collectively called FLiRT.

India reports maximum number of 'FLiRT' COVID cases

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Dubai leaks reveal Pak's grim economic inequality - US rate cut suspense continues - Foreign agents bill: US warns Georgia - Caught on Cam: France Prison van attack

Dubai leaks reveal Pak's grim economic inequality | US rate cut suspense continues

The United States is expanding production of a 30,000 lb bomb designed to target nuclear facilities. Reports say the biggest non-nuclear bomb could be used to penetrate nuclear facilities deep below the Earth's surface in Iran amid the war in West Asia.

US to revamp 'non-nuke' bunker-buster bombs

A trail of destruction in Louisiana on May 15 after storm swept through the area, killing three people and destroying tress and metal structures. A pregnant woman also lost her life among the three people killed in the storm.

US: Louisiana storm brings down trees & metal structures, kills 3

US expanding 30,000-pound bomb fleet to penetrate nuclear sites in Iran, North Korea

The US Treasury Department has exposed an alleged scheme by sanctioned Russian oligarch to evade sanctions. The scheme involved in a complex web of companies designed to disguise ownership of a $1.5 billion industrial stake. Watch in for more details!

US sanctions target Russian schemes to evade sanctions

Biden administration is planning to send over $1 billion in arms and ammunition to Israel. Reportedly, the weapon package includes tank rounds, mortars, and armoured tactical vehicles. However, it is unclear how soon the weapons will be delivered.

US readies $1 bn weapons package even as Israeli tanks push deeper into Rafah

US to boost output of bombs designed to hit underground nuclear facilities

After a historic 7-month deployment that saw some of the most dangerous engagements in recent American Naval history, the destroyer USS Carney back in the United States.

US: USS' Carney returns after six months of deployment in Red Sea

US-Russia tensions rise over sanctions and nuclear fuel

EAM Jaishankar said that India will work to communicate the benefits of a strategic port project in Iran. This after the United States said Indian firms working on the project risked sanctions. Watch this video for all details.

'Chabahar has a larger relevance': Jaishankar reacts to US threat of sanctions

The former United States President Donald Trump’s ex-lawyer turned foe Michael Cohen returned to the witness stand, on Tuesday (May 14) amid the ongoing historic criminal trial of the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. This comes a day after Cohen, a key witness, testified that the former president had personally authorised him to make hush money payment to a porn star weeks ahead of the 2016 presidential election.

<h2>About Cohen’s testimony&nbsp;</h2>

At the beginning of his testimony, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michael-cohen-trumps-fixer-turned-foe-says-he-was-told-to-handle-hush-money-payments-721137">Trump’s former lawyer</a> recounted an Oval Office meeting with Trump in February 2017 when the former president had just been inaugurated saying that he would receive his first two instalments of a bonus package.

The package in question, Cohen testified, included reimbursements for the hush money payment made to Daniels. The ex-Trump lawyer was asked about a series of invoices and checks – some of them signed by the former president himself – by Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger.&nbsp;

Cohen said that those were falsely marked as paying for retainer services. “There was no retainer agreement, was there?” asked Hoffinger, as per Reuters, to which Cohen responded by saying “No, ma’am.”

Eight of the false checks were personally signed by Trump, reported the news agency.&nbsp;Trump's former lawyer also admitted that he repeatedly lied on behalf of the Republican.

"In order to protect Mr. Trump, to stay on message, to demonstrate my continued loyalty," Cohen testified.&nbsp;

After his home was raided by the FBI in 2018, the star witness said that Trump calmed him down. "He said to me, ‘Don’t worry, I’m the President of the United States, there’s nothing here...I felt reassured because I had the President of the United States protecting me," Cohen said.&nbsp;

Cohen, the prosecution’s star witness, took to the stand&nbsp;once again&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;where he also was grilled by&nbsp;Trump attorney Todd Blanche after which he admitted to&nbsp;calling the former president a "dictator douchebag" on TikTok.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;cross-examination was predictably tense with&nbsp;Blanche questioning Cohen about his social media posts about Trump, and continued amid&nbsp;rapid-fire objections from Hoffinger.&nbsp;

On Monday (May 13), when&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michael-cohen-testifies-donald-trump-was-confident-about-replacing-melania-721146">former lawyer first testified</a> he&nbsp;said that he had&nbsp;spoken to Trump immediately after wiring the $130,000 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels and that it was one of the many times he worked “at the direction of and for the benefit” of the former president.&nbsp;

The former president is on trial based on the charges stemming from hush money allegedly paid to Daniels, 45, ahead of the 2016 presidential election. The prosecutors have alleged that Trump falsified business records to cover up the payment that Cohen made to the adult film actress in the run-up to the election.&nbsp;

<h2>House Speaker, Republican governors in court</h2>

The court also witnessed an entourage of Republican supporters along with Trump on Tuesday, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson.&nbsp;

Before entering the Manhattan courthouse, Johnson parroted Trump’s rhetoric and said that the justice system is being “weaponized” against the former president and is “not about justice” but rather “all about politics.”

While Trump has been barred by the gag order to not talk about those involved in the case, he seemed to have pushed the House Speaker to do his bidding as&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;Manhattan&nbsp;District Attorney Alvin Bragg – who brought the case against Trump – and other court officials as partisans, reported the Associated Press.

He also called Cohen “a man who is clearly on a mission for personal revenge” and “has trouble with the truth.”

Other Republican supporters of the former president included his former GOP rival Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, and US Representatives from Florida, Byron Donalds and Cory Mills.&nbsp;

Notably, Burgum and Donalds are on Trump’s long list of potential vice presidential contenders.

<h2>New York court rejects Trump's appeal</h2>

In a five-page ruling, a&nbsp;New York court, on Tuesday&nbsp;rejected Trump's bid to&nbsp;lift the gag order imposed by Judge&nbsp;Juan Merchan who is overseeing the hush money trial.&nbsp;

The judge "properly weighed petitioner's First Amendment Rights against the court's historical commitment to ensuring the fair administration of justice in criminal cases, and the right of persons related or tangentially related to the criminal proceedings from being free from threats, intimidation, harassment, and harm," said the ruling.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

So far, judge Merchan has held Trump in contempt of court for violating the gag order 10 times and fined him $1,000 per violation. The former president,&nbsp;last week, was also warned&nbsp;that he could be sent to jail for future violations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The former United States President Donald Trump’s ex-lawyer turned foe Michael Cohen returned to the witness stand, on Tuesday (May 14) amid the ongoing historic criminal trial of the presumptive Republican presidential nominee.

The former United States President Donald Trump’s ex-lawyer turned foe Michael Cohen returned to the witness stand, on Tuesday (May 14) amid the ongoing historic criminal trial of the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. This comes a day after Cohen, a key witness, testified that the former president had personally authorised him to make hush money payment to a porn star weeks ahead of the 2016 presidential election. About Cohen’s testimony At the beginning of his testimony, Trump’s former lawyer recounted an Oval Office meeting with Trump in February 2017 when the former president had just been inaugurated saying that he would receive his first two instalments of a bonus package. The package in question, Cohen testified, included reimbursements for the hush money payment made to Daniels. The ex-Trump lawyer was asked about a series of invoices and checks – some of them signed by the former president himself – by Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger. Cohen said that those were falsely marked as paying for retainer services. “There was no retainer agreement, was there?” asked Hoffinger, as per Reuters, to which Cohen responded by saying “No, ma’am.” Eight of the false checks were personally signed by Trump, reported the news agency. Trump's former lawyer also admitted that he repeatedly lied on behalf of the Republican. "In order to protect Mr. Trump, to stay on message, to demonstrate my continued loyalty," Cohen testified. After his home was raided by the FBI in 2018, the star witness said that Trump calmed him down. "He said to me, ‘Don’t worry, I’m the President of the United States, there’s nothing here...I felt reassured because I had the President of the United States protecting me," Cohen said. Cohen, the prosecution’s star witness, took to the stand once again on Tuesday where he also was grilled by Trump attorney Todd Blanche after which he admitted to calling the former president a "dictator douchebag" on TikTok. The cross-examination was predictably tense with Blanche questioning Cohen about his social media posts about Trump, and continued amid rapid-fire objections from Hoffinger. On Monday (May 13), when the former lawyer first testified he said that he had spoken to Trump immediately after wiring the $130,000 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels and that it was one of the many times he worked “at the direction of and for the benefit” of the former president. The former president is on trial based on the charges stemming from hush money allegedly paid to Daniels, 45, ahead of the 2016 presidential election. The prosecutors have alleged that Trump falsified business records to cover up the payment that Cohen made to the adult film actress in the run-up to the election. House Speaker, Republican governors in court The court also witnessed an entourage of Republican supporters along with Trump on Tuesday, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson. Before entering the Manhattan courthouse, Johnson parroted Trump’s rhetoric and said that the justice system is being “weaponized” against the former president and is “not about justice” but rather “all about politics.” While Trump has been barred by the gag order to not talk about those involved in the case, he seemed to have pushed the House Speaker to do his bidding as Johnson criticised Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg – who brought the case against Trump – and other court officials as partisans, reported the Associated Press. He also called Cohen “a man who is clearly on a mission for personal revenge” and “has trouble with the truth.” Other Republican supporters of the former president included his former GOP rival Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, and US Representatives from Florida, Byron Donalds and Cory Mills. Notably, Burgum and Donalds are on Trump’s long list of potential vice presidential contenders. New York court rejects Trump's appeal In a five-page ruling, a New York court, on Tuesday rejected Trump's bid to lift the gag order imposed by Judge Juan Merchan who is overseeing the hush money trial. The judge "properly weighed petitioner's First Amendment Rights against the court's historical commitment to ensuring the fair administration of justice in criminal cases, and the right of persons related or tangentially related to the criminal proceedings from being free from threats, intimidation, harassment, and harm," said the ruling. So far, judge Merchan has held Trump in contempt of court for violating the gag order 10 times and fined him $1,000 per violation. The former president, last week, was also warned that he could be sent to jail for future violations. (With inputs from agencies)

Hush money trial: Trump’s fixer-turned-foe, Michael Cohen, returns to the witness stand

Chinese EV maker BYD has unveiled the Shark mid-size hybrid-electric pickup truck in Mexico, marking the first time that the company has launched a new product outside its home country. The firm's Chief of Americas, Stella Li said that Mexico was chosen because of the rapid growth in demand for pickup trucks in the country. The pickup truck strengthens the EV maker's foothold in the North American market posing a rivalry to the likes of Ford, General Motors and Toyota.&nbsp;

Exterior and Interior highlights:

BYD Shark features a full-width LED light bar in the front with a large BYD logo mounted on the radiator grille. Thanks to the Black cladding around, the pickup truck gives off-roading vibes. On the inside, there is a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen which is complemented by a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. Features like 12-inch heads-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and bidirectional charging are offered on the vehicle.

Platform highlights:

In terms of dimensions, BYD Shark measures 214 inches long, 77.5 inches wide and 75.5 inches tall with a wheelbase of 128.3 inches. The pickup truck's maximum towing and payload capacities are 5,511 pounds and 1,840 pounds, respectively. BYD Shark rides on a body-on-frame platform, which the company calls DMO. DM stands for Dual Mode (hybrid) and O stands for off-road.

Engine highlights:

Shark's plug-in hybrid system houses the 1.5-liter turbo engine with two electric motors, one on each axle, delivering a combines power of 430 hp. The pickup truck can do 0-62 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds. The vehicle makes use of BYD's renowned in-house blade battery technology.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/surge-in-global-prices-stalls-chinas-imports-of-russian-aluminium-721657">Surge in global prices stalls China’s imports of Russian aluminium</a>

US hikes EV tariffs:

The Shark unveil comes hours after US President Joe Biden announced increase in tariffs on Chinese imports over unfair competitive practices, leading to import duties on Chinese products quadrupling to over 100%. However, BYD's regional chief dismissed that these tariffs affect the company by saying that it is not eyeing the US market.&nbsp;

Li, in an interview to Reuters, stated that BYD plans to build a manufacturing plant in Mexico. "We don't have plans to go to the U.S. market, so this announcement does not impact us at all. When we build a Mexican plant, we only consider the Mexican market and other countries' markets, we have not considered the US," she added.

BYD eyeing EV plant in Mexico:

Li informed that the company has already shortlisted potential sites for building BYD's plant in Mexico and that the facility will be centrally-located in the Latin American country. She added that a "deeper dialogue" was needed to make the final decision and that could happen by the end of the year. BYD's Mexican plant is expected to have a capacity of 150,000 vehicles per year and could take up to two to three years to be operational.&nbsp;

Chinese automakers have been growing their presence in Mexico since 2017 as one of 10 cars sold in Mexico last year was from a Chinese automaker. MG Motors, a unit of SAIC dominated nearly half the Mexican market in the mentioned time period.&nbsp;

However, US Trade Representative Katherine Tai later said that the country is also weighing tariffs on imports from Mexico. Last month, Mexico's federal government too came under pressure from the US to keep Chinese automakers away by refusing to offer incentives such as low-cost public land or tax cuts for investment in EV production.

 
&nbsp;

Chinese EV maker BYD has unveiled the Shark mid-size hybrid-electric pickup truck in Mexico, marking the first time that the company has launched a new product outside its home country.

Chinese EV maker BYD has unveiled the Shark mid-size hybrid-electric pickup truck in Mexico, marking the first time that the company has launched a new product outside its home country. The firm's Chief of Americas, Stella Li said that Mexico was chosen because of the rapid growth in demand for pickup trucks in the country. The pickup truck strengthens the EV maker's foothold in the North American market posing a rivalry to the likes of Ford, General Motors and Toyota. Exterior and Interior highlights: BYD Shark features a full-width LED light bar in the front with a large BYD logo mounted on the radiator grille. Thanks to the Black cladding around, the pickup truck gives off-roading vibes. On the inside, there is a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen which is complemented by a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. Features like 12-inch heads-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and bidirectional charging are offered on the vehicle. Platform highlights: In terms of dimensions, BYD Shark measures 214 inches long, 77.5 inches wide and 75.5 inches tall with a wheelbase of 128.3 inches. The pickup truck's maximum towing and payload capacities are 5,511 pounds and 1,840 pounds, respectively. BYD Shark rides on a body-on-frame platform, which the company calls DMO. DM stands for Dual Mode (hybrid) and O stands for off-road. Engine highlights: Shark's plug-in hybrid system houses the 1.5-liter turbo engine with two electric motors, one on each axle, delivering a combines power of 430 hp. The pickup truck can do 0-62 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds. The vehicle makes use of BYD's renowned in-house blade battery technology. Also Read: Surge in global prices stalls China’s imports of Russian aluminium US hikes EV tariffs: The Shark unveil comes hours after US President Joe Biden announced increase in tariffs on Chinese imports over unfair competitive practices, leading to import duties on Chinese products quadrupling to over 100%. However, BYD's regional chief dismissed that these tariffs affect the company by saying that it is not eyeing the US market. Li, in an interview to Reuters, stated that BYD plans to build a manufacturing plant in Mexico. "We don't have plans to go to the U.S. market, so this announcement does not impact us at all. When we build a Mexican plant, we only consider the Mexican market and other countries' markets, we have not considered the US," she added. BYD eyeing EV plant in Mexico: Li informed that the company has already shortlisted potential sites for building BYD's plant in Mexico and that the facility will be centrally-located in the Latin American country. She added that a "deeper dialogue" was needed to make the final decision and that could happen by the end of the year. BYD's Mexican plant is expected to have a capacity of 150,000 vehicles per year and could take up to two to three years to be operational. Chinese automakers have been growing their presence in Mexico since 2017 as one of 10 cars sold in Mexico last year was from a Chinese automaker. MG Motors, a unit of SAIC dominated nearly half the Mexican market in the mentioned time period. However, US Trade Representative Katherine Tai later said that the country is also weighing tariffs on imports from Mexico. Last month, Mexico's federal government too came under pressure from the US to keep Chinese automakers away by refusing to offer incentives such as low-cost public land or tax cuts for investment in EV production.

BYD Shark hybrid pickup launched in Mexico as US hikes EV tariffs

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday took the stage at a bar in Ukraine's capital Kyiv to play guitar and sing Neil Young's 1989 hit "Rockin' in the Free World" with a local band. Listen in!

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken jams to Neil Young's song in Kyiv bar

Hours after India and Iran signed a 10-year contract to develop and operate the port of Chabahar in Iran, the United States has now issued a warning. The US said that anyone considering business deals with Tehran needs to be aware of the potential risk of sanctions. Watch in for more details!

US warns of sanctions after India-Iran Chabahar Port deal

The Russia Ukraine war is now witnessing a fresh wave of escalation and in show of support with Ukraine the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday in an unannounced trip. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine war: US Secretary of State Blinken arrives in Kyiv in show of US solidarity

The smoke from the wildfires burning in Canada has reached the US state of Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin prompting officials to issue air quality alerts, on Monday (May 13) morning. This comes as more than 100 active wildfires are burning in Canada with nearly 40 of them labelled “out of control,” reported ABC News.&nbsp;

<h2>Air quality alerts in US</h2>

The smoke from the wildfires in Canada, according to the American media, reached the US states of Montana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, on Sunday (May 12).&nbsp;

The situation was particularly bad in Minnesota where the state’s Pollution Control Agency issued the alert for the entire state on Sunday which was supposed to end on Monday afternoon (local time) but was later extended until 11:00 pm (local time).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hush-money-trial-bullied-people-to-accomplish-trumps-tasks-admits-ex-lawyer-michael-cohen-721051">Hush money trial: ‘Bullied people to accomplish Trump’s tasks,’ admits ex-lawyer Michael Cohen</a>

Meanwhile, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in most of the northern part of Minnesota was between 150-200 which is categorised as “unhealthy”. Overnight, Bemidji, a city in northern Minnesota recorded an AQI of 212, where residents reported smelling smoke in the air.&nbsp;

In neighbouring Wisconsin, the state’s Department of Natural Resources issued an air quality alert for the northwestern part of the state. The alert went into effect on Monday morning, 10:00 am (local time) and will end on Tuesday (May 15) at midnight.&nbsp;

This comes as the department forecasted the AQI for dozens of counties to be between 101 and 150 which is deemed “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”.&nbsp;

The smoke is reportedly expected to drift to Omaha, Nebraska by Monday evening.&nbsp;

<h2>Situation in Canada</h2>

Across the border from the US, Canada is witnessing the season’s first major wildfires which have spread to around 24,710 acres across Western Canada, as of Sunday.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-china-ratchet-up-ai-arms-race-amid-growing-strategic-concerns-720970">US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns</a>

Over the weekend, firefighters in Canada were battling several wildfires. According to ABC News, at least 37 of the 141 active fires burning in Canadian wildfires have been labelled “out of control.”&nbsp;

In British Columbia, thousands of residents in Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and Fort Nelson First Nations were evacuated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The smoke from the wildfires burning in Canada has reached the US state of Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin prompting officials to issue air quality alerts, on Monday (May 13) morning.

The smoke from the wildfires burning in Canada has reached the US state of Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin prompting officials to issue air quality alerts, on Monday (May 13) morning. This comes as more than 100 active wildfires are burning in Canada with nearly 40 of them labelled “out of control,” reported ABC News. Air quality alerts in US The smoke from the wildfires in Canada, according to the American media, reached the US states of Montana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, on Sunday (May 12). The situation was particularly bad in Minnesota where the state’s Pollution Control Agency issued the alert for the entire state on Sunday which was supposed to end on Monday afternoon (local time) but was later extended until 11:00 pm (local time). Also Read | Hush money trial: ‘Bullied people to accomplish Trump’s tasks,’ admits ex-lawyer Michael Cohen Meanwhile, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in most of the northern part of Minnesota was between 150-200 which is categorised as “unhealthy”. Overnight, Bemidji, a city in northern Minnesota recorded an AQI of 212, where residents reported smelling smoke in the air. In neighbouring Wisconsin, the state’s Department of Natural Resources issued an air quality alert for the northwestern part of the state. The alert went into effect on Monday morning, 10:00 am (local time) and will end on Tuesday (May 15) at midnight. This comes as the department forecasted the AQI for dozens of counties to be between 101 and 150 which is deemed “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”. The smoke is reportedly expected to drift to Omaha, Nebraska by Monday evening. Situation in Canada Across the border from the US, Canada is witnessing the season’s first major wildfires which have spread to around 24,710 acres across Western Canada, as of Sunday. Also Read | US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns Over the weekend, firefighters in Canada were battling several wildfires. According to ABC News, at least 37 of the 141 active fires burning in Canadian wildfires have been labelled “out of control.” In British Columbia, thousands of residents in Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and Fort Nelson First Nations were evacuated. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada wildfires: Smoke reaches US states of Minnesota and Wisconsin, affects air quality

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has claimed the US had allowed India to buy Russian oil. He said that they allowed the purchase to take place to ensure the prices did not go up globally. His statement has triggered a series of question marks. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: US Ambassador's statement on India's purchase of Russian oil

US and Taiwan in recent years have been expanding their military cooperation. This comes amid incursions by Chinese forces into Taiwan's air defence identification zone and drills conducted near the island nation. Reports have now emerged that both countries undertook military exercises last month in the Pacific. These unofficial drills were dubbed as unplanned sea encounters so that both sides could claim the exercise to be a result of a coincidental encounter.

Report: US & Taiwan conducted drills in China's backyard

China has vowed to take all necessary measures following reports that the United States is planning to raise tariffs on Chinese clean energy goods. This includes Chinese EVs, batteries and Solar Products.

US: Biden quadruples tariff on Chinese EV import

Michael Cohen, the onetime fixer for Donald Trump who is now the star witness at his hush money criminal trial Cohen has now testified in court. The then Republican candidate directed him to pay off adult film stars Stormy Daniels to bury revelations of an alleged tryst . Watch in for more details!

Trump's Hush Money Trial: Michael Cohen takes witness stand again

President Joe Biden signed a ban on imports of Russian enriched uranium to US,&nbsp;the White House announced, in a move being touted as Washington's&nbsp;endeavor to disrupt President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, but waivers could make the law toothless.

The development is significant as&nbsp;Russia holds the title of the world's leading supplier of enriched uranium, with approximately 24% of the fuel utilised by US nuclear power plants originating from the country.

The ban on imports of the fuel for nuclear power plants begins in about 90 days, although it allows the Department of Energy to issue waivers in case of supply concerns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/collapsed-baltimore-bridge-blows-up-in-controlled-blast-watch-721166">Collapsed Baltimore Bridge blows up in controlled blast: Watch</a>

The law, signed by Biden on Monday (May 13), also unlocks about $2.7 billion in funding in previous legislation to build the US uranium fuel industry.

"Today, President Joe Biden signed into law that will strengthen our nation's energy and economic security by reducing, and ultimately eliminating, our reliance on Russia for civilian nuclear power," Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser, said in a statement.

Sullivan further said that the legislation aligns with the multilateral objectives established with our allies and partners, reflecting commitments made in December alongside Canada, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom to jointly invest $4.2 billion to enhance uranium enrichment and conversion capabilities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michael-cohen-trumps-fixer-turned-foe-says-he-was-told-to-handle-hush-money-payments-721137">Trump's fixer-turned-foe says he was told to 'handle' hush money payments</a>

<h2>Waivers could make it a toothless law 
&nbsp;</h2>

Even as questions remain why the US continued with this trade in spite of public pronouncements against Russia over Ukraine war, a waiver system could make this law practically dead on arrival.

A report earlier by S&amp;P Global had said that as per the waiver system, "companies with enriched uranium contracts with Russia can seek to continue to receive their material by demonstrating they do not have viable alternate sources of fuel or that continued deliveries are in the national interest."

A Reuters report seemed to suggest that under the waivers, if implemented by the Energy Department, Russian uranium imports to the US could continue normally through 2027.

Anatoly Antonov, Russia's ambassador to the United States, said that Washington's decision surprising in global economic relations, but will not bring any results.

"The balance between exporters and importers of uranium products is being disrupted," the Russian embassy in Washington cited Antonov as saying in a post on its Telegram messaging channel.

(With inputs from agencies)

President Joe Biden signed a ban on imports of Russian enriched uranium to US, the White House announced, in a move being touted as Washington's endeavor to disrupt President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, but waivers could make the law toothless.

President Joe Biden signed a ban on imports of Russian enriched uranium to US, the White House announced, in a move being touted as Washington's endeavor to disrupt President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, but waivers could make the law toothless. The development is significant as Russia holds the title of the world's leading supplier of enriched uranium, with approximately 24% of the fuel utilised by US nuclear power plants originating from the country. The ban on imports of the fuel for nuclear power plants begins in about 90 days, although it allows the Department of Energy to issue waivers in case of supply concerns. Also read: Collapsed Baltimore Bridge blows up in controlled blast: Watch The law, signed by Biden on Monday (May 13), also unlocks about $2.7 billion in funding in previous legislation to build the US uranium fuel industry. "Today, President Joe Biden signed into law that will strengthen our nation's energy and economic security by reducing, and ultimately eliminating, our reliance on Russia for civilian nuclear power," Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser, said in a statement. Sullivan further said that the legislation aligns with the multilateral objectives established with our allies and partners, reflecting commitments made in December alongside Canada, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom to jointly invest $4.2 billion to enhance uranium enrichment and conversion capabilities. Also read: Trump's fixer-turned-foe says he was told to 'handle' hush money payments Waivers could make it a toothless law Even as questions remain why the US continued with this trade in spite of public pronouncements against Russia over Ukraine war, a waiver system could make this law practically dead on arrival. A report earlier by S&P Global had said that as per the waiver system, "companies with enriched uranium contracts with Russia can seek to continue to receive their material by demonstrating they do not have viable alternate sources of fuel or that continued deliveries are in the national interest." A Reuters report seemed to suggest that under the waivers, if implemented by the Energy Department, Russian uranium imports to the US could continue normally through 2027. Anatoly Antonov, Russia's ambassador to the United States, said that Washington's decision surprising in global economic relations, but will not bring any results. "The balance between exporters and importers of uranium products is being disrupted," the Russian embassy in Washington cited Antonov as saying in a post on its Telegram messaging channel. (With inputs from agencies)

US bans Russian uranium imports, crucial for nuclear fuel supply, but waivers could make it toothless

Australia has unveiled 'Ghost Shark', an underwater drone that is capable of surveillance, intelligence collection and attacking enemy targets. The U.S. has a 'Monster Manta' that can carry a range of payloads, carry out long-range missions. Countries around the world are developing unmanned underwater vehicles for the next war at sea. What about India?

Gravitas: A new underwater warfare, is India prepared?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on a surprise visit to Kyiv. But are you even surprised? Blinken has been taking multiple diplomatic foreign trips. But how are these trips helping anyone?

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US Treasury secretary Janet Yellen warns of potential retaliation from china amid escalating trade tensions. The Biden administration is considering quadrupling tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, batteries, and solar cells. Yellen emphasizes the need for targeted measures to protect US Investments in emerging sectors, citing concerns over china's unfair trade practices.

Yellen warns of potential Chinese retaliation amid US trade tariffs

US Airlines are taking the fight over hidden fees to the skies. A group of major carriers, including American, Delta, and United, are suing the department of transportation to block a new rule requiring upfront disclosure of all airline fees. Watch in for more details!

US: Airlines sue US transportation department over fee disclosure rule

China-based Hesai Group has filed a lawsuit against the U. S. government for putting it on a list of companies which have been found to be working with Chinese military. The lawsuit was filed after the U. S. Department of Defense added Hesai to its list of firms in January, simultaneously with several other businesses, pointing out the concerns about their alleged connections to the Chinese military.

Background of the lawsuit

The leading manufacturing company of lidar light sensors that are used in the self-driving vehicles and driver-assistance systems, Hesai Group, questions the decision and says that the management and operations of the company are not influenced by the Chinese governmental or military entities. The company asserts that it is primarily owned by non-Chinese shareholders and thus is focused on the commercial and civilian use of its technology.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eu-countries-in-favour-of-cutting-trucks-co2-emissions-720998">EU countries in favour of cutting trucks' CO2 emissions</a>

Consequences of the listing

The fact of being on the 1260H list has caused significant reputational damage for Hesai Group, which has in turn led to a steep fall in its stock price as well as the loss of possible business opportunities. Although the inclusion on the list does not present the immediate imposition of sanctions, it is a warning to the U.S. entities about their dealings with the listed companies.

Legal action and requests

In its lawsuit brought on Monday, Hesai Group insists that it was not given any warning or explanation, or even a chance to defend itself before being put on the list. The company demands that the US district court order the government to get its name out of the list, referring to the unequal treatment and the absence of due process.

Response from the government

The U. S. Department of Defense has not made any remarks on the proceeding of the lawsuit. On the other hand, Hesai Group insists that the government has not given any serious answers to its requests for removal of the group from the list or does not try to solve the problem outside the courtroom.

Concerns raised by lawmakers

Some U. S. lawmakers have indicated the doubts on the use of the advanced technology, whose components are made by Chinese firms, including lidar, radar, and semiconductors. They emphasize the possible dangers of data collection and possible sharing of it with China by citing the national security concerns.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg previously voiced concerns about the national security implications of such technologies. He stressed the need for a better understanding of the ownership structure of the companies that provide components for the transportation systems to solve the problems effectively.

As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome will likely influence the landscape of technology trade relations between the U.S. and China, with broader implications for the global tech industry.

(Inputs from Reuters)

China-based Hesai Group has filed a lawsuit against the U. S. government for putting it on a list of companies which have been found to be working with Chinese military.

China-based Hesai Group has filed a lawsuit against the U. S. government for putting it on a list of companies which have been found to be working with Chinese military. The lawsuit was filed after the U. S. Department of Defense added Hesai to its list of firms in January, simultaneously with several other businesses, pointing out the concerns about their alleged connections to the Chinese military. Background of the lawsuit The leading manufacturing company of lidar light sensors that are used in the self-driving vehicles and driver-assistance systems, Hesai Group, questions the decision and says that the management and operations of the company are not influenced by the Chinese governmental or military entities. The company asserts that it is primarily owned by non-Chinese shareholders and thus is focused on the commercial and civilian use of its technology. Also Read: EU countries in favour of cutting trucks' CO2 emissions Consequences of the listing The fact of being on the 1260H list has caused significant reputational damage for Hesai Group, which has in turn led to a steep fall in its stock price as well as the loss of possible business opportunities. Although the inclusion on the list does not present the immediate imposition of sanctions, it is a warning to the U.S. entities about their dealings with the listed companies. Legal action and requests In its lawsuit brought on Monday, Hesai Group insists that it was not given any warning or explanation, or even a chance to defend itself before being put on the list. The company demands that the US district court order the government to get its name out of the list, referring to the unequal treatment and the absence of due process. Response from the government The U. S. Department of Defense has not made any remarks on the proceeding of the lawsuit. On the other hand, Hesai Group insists that the government has not given any serious answers to its requests for removal of the group from the list or does not try to solve the problem outside the courtroom. Concerns raised by lawmakers Some U. S. lawmakers have indicated the doubts on the use of the advanced technology, whose components are made by Chinese firms, including lidar, radar, and semiconductors. They emphasize the possible dangers of data collection and possible sharing of it with China by citing the national security concerns. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg previously voiced concerns about the national security implications of such technologies. He stressed the need for a better understanding of the ownership structure of the companies that provide components for the transportation systems to solve the problems effectively. As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome will likely influence the landscape of technology trade relations between the U.S. and China, with broader implications for the global tech industry. (Inputs from Reuters)

Chinese lidar maker Hesai Group sues U.S. government over allegations

Chabahar port deal: US warns of sanctions on anyone considering deal with Tehran

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