The 2022 survey found that British people expressed the most positive views on immigration since the survey began in 2001, with 34% agreeing the country should allow many immigrants ‘of a different race or ethnic group to the majority’ into the country in comparison to 8% in 2002.

Most British people hold positive view of immigration, survey reveals

With U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's return to the Middle East Friday amid the Israel-Hamas war, experts are watching to see whether his itinerary will include Turkey. President Joe Biden is facing a revolt from some members of his Democratic Party over his unwavering support for Israel as it expands ground operations in Gaza and Palestinian civilian casualties mount.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's urges Israel to hold ground offensive

Hollywood actor Matthew Perry who died on the 28th of October at the age of 54 was laid to rest at a Los Angeles Cemetery. The mourners gathered at the Forest Lawn Cemetery in the Hollywood Hills neighbourhood of Los Angeles less than a mile from the Warner Brothers Studio where friends were shot. The Matthew Perry was laid to rest in a service that was attended by relatives and also the cast maids from the hit television sitcom Friends.

'Friends' stars arrive at Matthew Perry's funeral in Los Angeles

US secretary of state Antony Blinken on Friday urged Israel to temporarily stop its military offensive on Gaza to allow for aid to enter the Palestinian enclave but faced pushback from PM Benjamin Netanyahu who rejected any such halt unless the 240 hostages held by Hamas militants are freed.

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken urges Israel to take steps to avoid civilian casualties

Heather Pressdee, a Pennsylvania nurse who was previously charged with killing two patients through lethal insulin doses, has now been hit with new charges. In the latest, she confessed to attempting to kill 19 people at different rehabilitation centers where she worked, leading to 17 patient deaths. The charges were announced by prosecutors on Thursday (Nov 2).

Pressdee had previously been charged in May for mistreating three patients, two of whom died. Now the new charges filed against Pressdee include two counts of first-degree murder, 17 counts of attempted murder, and 19 counts of neglect of a care-dependent person. The nurse's vicious&nbsp;actions, which started in 2020 carried on till 2023.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lisa-franchetti-creates-history-as-first-woman-to-lead-us-navy-655139">Lisa Franchetti creates history as first woman to lead US Navy</a>

According to the prosecutors, the nurse is facing first-degree murder charges which are backed by physical evidence of the cause of death, and attempted murder charges which applied to cases where victims either survived the excessive insulin doses or the cause of death couldn't be determined.

<h2>Nurse's mistreatment</h2>

Her alleged misconduct involved a pattern of administering insulin during overnight shifts with low staffing would not trigger immediate hospitalisation. In cases where she believed the victim might survive, she reportedly took additional measures to try to kill them, such as administering a second dose of insulin or using an air embolism, as per the criminal complaint.

Her&nbsp;nursing license has also been suspended.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-clear-zelensky-says-israel-hamas-war-taking-away-focus-from-ukraine-655131">Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war 'taking away focus' from Ukraine</a>

Pressdee's alleged abuse occurred while she was employed as a registered nurse at several facilities, including Concordia at Rebecca Residence, Belair Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Quality Life Services - Chicora, Premier Armstrong Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, and Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

She is in custody at Butler County Prison without bail. It is not known whether she has made a plea.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-voices-solidarity-with-tel-aviv-655134">US Secretary of state voices solidarity with Tel Aviv</a>

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Pressdee's attorneys, Jim DePasquale and Phil DiLucente, in a statement reportedly said,&nbsp;“This a very complex and serious matter. Ms. Pressdee had her formal arraignment yesterday on the first set of charges, previously filed by the PA Attorney General’s office and in addition had her preliminary hearing on the new set of homicide and attempted homicide charges."

"The goal from the very beginning of these matters was to not have the death penalty imposed. We are in pursuit of that goal,” the statement added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Heather Pressdee, a Pennsylvania nurse who was previously charged with killing two patients through lethal insulin doses, has now been hit with new charges. In the latest, she confessed to attempting to kill 19 people at different rehabilitation centers where she worked, leading to 17 patient deaths.

Heather Pressdee, a Pennsylvania nurse who was previously charged with killing two patients through lethal insulin doses, has now been hit with new charges. In the latest, she confessed to attempting to kill 19 people at different rehabilitation centers where she worked, leading to 17 patient deaths. The charges were announced by prosecutors on Thursday (Nov 2). Pressdee had previously been charged in May for mistreating three patients, two of whom died. Now the new charges filed against Pressdee include two counts of first-degree murder, 17 counts of attempted murder, and 19 counts of neglect of a care-dependent person. The nurse's vicious actions, which started in 2020 carried on till 2023. Also Read | Lisa Franchetti creates history as first woman to lead US Navy According to the prosecutors, the nurse is facing first-degree murder charges which are backed by physical evidence of the cause of death, and attempted murder charges which applied to cases where victims either survived the excessive insulin doses or the cause of death couldn't be determined. Nurse's mistreatment Her alleged misconduct involved a pattern of administering insulin during overnight shifts with low staffing would not trigger immediate hospitalisation. In cases where she believed the victim might survive, she reportedly took additional measures to try to kill them, such as administering a second dose of insulin or using an air embolism, as per the criminal complaint. Her nursing license has also been suspended. Also Read | Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war 'taking away focus' from Ukraine Pressdee's alleged abuse occurred while she was employed as a registered nurse at several facilities, including Concordia at Rebecca Residence, Belair Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Quality Life Services - Chicora, Premier Armstrong Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, and Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She is in custody at Butler County Prison without bail. It is not known whether she has made a plea. Watch | US Secretary of state voices solidarity with Tel Aviv × Pressdee's attorneys, Jim DePasquale and Phil DiLucente, in a statement reportedly said, “This a very complex and serious matter. Ms. Pressdee had her formal arraignment yesterday on the first set of charges, previously filed by the PA Attorney General’s office and in addition had her preliminary hearing on the new set of homicide and attempted homicide charges." "The goal from the very beginning of these matters was to not have the death penalty imposed. We are in pursuit of that goal,” the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pennsylvania nurse faces new charges, confesses attempting to kill 17 patients

In a groundbreaking move, the US Senate on Thursday (Nov 2) voted in favour of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to lead the Navy, making her the very first woman to hold the position and to be a part of the military officers who make up the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Her nomination was approved by a margin of 95-1. She has been serving in a provisional capacity since August 2023 because of a single Republican senator's resistance to the Pentagon abortion access policy.

Franchetti has been in commanding positions on various surface vessels, showcasing her leadership prowess.&nbsp;

She has held key roles, including commander of a guided missile destroyer, a destroyer squadron, and two carrier strike groups.&nbsp;

Her expertise extends to global affairs, having served as the deputy commander of US naval forces in Europe and Africa, as well as the deputy chief of naval operations for warfighting development.

In September 2022, she was promoted to the service's second-highest rank, which is vice chief of naval operations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatian-foreign-minister-sparks-controversy-for-making-an-attempt-to-kiss-german-peer-655108">Croatian foreign minister sparks controversy for making an attempt to kiss German peer</a>

Franchetti has not only created history as the first woman to lead the US Navy but has also become the first woman to serve on the esteemed Joint Chiefs of Staff, a milestone that marks a significant step towards greater gender equality and representation at the highest levels of the US military.

<h2>Delay of nominations&nbsp;</h2>

Senate also filled two other spots by confirming General David Allvin, a pilot with more than 4,600 flight hours, as the head of the US Air Force by a vote of 95-1. He served as vice chief of staff of the Air Force previously.

Lawmakers generally approve the military nominations quickly through unanimous consent, however, one Republican Senator has been trying to block the military appointments in a bid to protest the Pentagon's abortion access policy.

Tommy Tuberville has been delaying the nominations to oppose Pentagon policies that permit service members seeking reproductive health care including abortions that are inaccessible where they are stationed to receive travel allowances and take organisational dearths.

The White House on Thursday, slammed Tuberville's delay of the nominations stating that his move was harming readiness.

"It's beyond ridiculous that this one senator is having this kind of an impact on our operational readiness," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said, noting that it is also affecting officers' families.

"Folks can't get schools for their kids, can't buy or rent houses, you know, don't know where they're going to be living next. It's absolutely ridiculous," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a groundbreaking move, the US Senate on Thursday (Nov 2) voted in favour of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to lead the Navy, making her the very first woman to hold the position and to be a part of the military officers who make up the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

In a groundbreaking move, the US Senate on Thursday (Nov 2) voted in favour of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to lead the Navy, making her the very first woman to hold the position and to be a part of the military officers who make up the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Her nomination was approved by a margin of 95-1. She has been serving in a provisional capacity since August 2023 because of a single Republican senator's resistance to the Pentagon abortion access policy. Franchetti has been in commanding positions on various surface vessels, showcasing her leadership prowess. She has held key roles, including commander of a guided missile destroyer, a destroyer squadron, and two carrier strike groups. Her expertise extends to global affairs, having served as the deputy commander of US naval forces in Europe and Africa, as well as the deputy chief of naval operations for warfighting development. In September 2022, she was promoted to the service's second-highest rank, which is vice chief of naval operations. Also read: Croatian foreign minister sparks controversy for making an attempt to kiss German peer Franchetti has not only created history as the first woman to lead the US Navy but has also become the first woman to serve on the esteemed Joint Chiefs of Staff, a milestone that marks a significant step towards greater gender equality and representation at the highest levels of the US military. Delay of nominations Senate also filled two other spots by confirming General David Allvin, a pilot with more than 4,600 flight hours, as the head of the US Air Force by a vote of 95-1. He served as vice chief of staff of the Air Force previously. Lawmakers generally approve the military nominations quickly through unanimous consent, however, one Republican Senator has been trying to block the military appointments in a bid to protest the Pentagon's abortion access policy. Tommy Tuberville has been delaying the nominations to oppose Pentagon policies that permit service members seeking reproductive health care including abortions that are inaccessible where they are stationed to receive travel allowances and take organisational dearths. The White House on Thursday, slammed Tuberville's delay of the nominations stating that his move was harming readiness. "It's beyond ridiculous that this one senator is having this kind of an impact on our operational readiness," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said, noting that it is also affecting officers' families. "Folks can't get schools for their kids, can't buy or rent houses, you know, don't know where they're going to be living next. It's absolutely ridiculous," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Lisa Franchetti creates history as first woman to lead US Navy

From pro-Palestine, pro-Israel protestors clashing at Tulane University to the Jewish community in New York protesting Israel's bombardment of Gaza, the United States has been witnessing numerous incidents of anti-War protests. Even Protests reached the US Senate hearing. Numerous demonstrators raised red-stained hands in the air and repeatedly yelled, "Ceasefire now!" when US State Secretary Antony Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were testifying about the White House's funding of $106bn for Ukraine, Israel, and US Border.

Protesters with 'bloody' hands vs Antony Blinken

As tensions continue in the West Asian region due to the raging Israel-Hamas War US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with the prime minister and also Lebanon's caretaker prime minister all this during his ongoing visit to Jordan.

US Secretary of state voices solidarity with Tel Aviv

United States (US) President Joe Biden nominated Admiral Lisa Franchetti to serve as the US Chief of Naval Staff.

Lisa Franchetti to become first female to lead US Navy

US Navy under Biden gets its first woman chief

Amazon.com is facing allegations of using unlawful strategies to enhance its profits, including the implementation of an algorithm that inflated prices paid by U.S. households by over $1 billion, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). &nbsp;

The FTC lawsuit, initially filed in September, revealed additional details in a less-redacted version made public on Thursday. This new version outlined Amazon's use of a "secret algorithm internally code-named 'Project Nessie' to identify specific products for which it predicts other online stores will follow Amazon's price increases."&nbsp;

Amazon, boasting a vast online superstore with over 1 billion items, has been accused of utilising Project Nessie to extract over a billion dollars directly from American consumers. Amazon's spokesperson&nbsp;Tim Doyle&nbsp;refuted the FTC's characterisation of the pricing tool, emphasising that the company ceased using it several years ago. Doyle explained that Nessie aimed to prevent price matching from causing unsustainably low prices and insisted the tool was employed to maintain fair pricing practices.&nbsp;

The FTC's complaint outlined how Amazon initiated testing of the pricing algorithm in 2010 to gauge whether competitors tracked its prices. Subsequently, Amazon would raise prices for products that were expected to be monitored by rival online retailers. When these competitors matched or increased their prices, Amazon would allegedly persist in selling the product at an inflated price, resulting in an excess profit of $1 billion. &nbsp;

The FTC further claimed that Amazon paused the algorithm during its Prime Day and holiday shopping events to mitigate scrutiny. However, the lawsuit alleged that Amazon reactivated Project Nessie once public attention shifted elsewhere.&nbsp;

The FTC's complaint also detailed Amazon's requirement for sellers under the Prime feature to use its logistics and delivery services, even when more cost-effective alternatives were available. The FTC contended that Amazon enforced this practice, even if sellers preferred to utilise other services that could also cater to customers from different platforms. The fees for Amazon's fulfilment services, charged to sellers, increased from 27 per cent in 2014 to 39.5 per cent in 2018, according to the FTC.&nbsp;

In addition to the allegations regarding pricing and seller practices, the complaint raised questions about Amazon's treatment of other major online stores, such as Walmart.com. The complaint noted that Amazon doesn't permit significant online retailers like Walmart.com to sell on its platform. &nbsp;

In response to the different treatment of Walmart.com compared to smaller sellers, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos cited the scale and competitive landscape as reasons for this differentiation. The complaint also mentioned that Amazon had allegedly discouraged Walmart from offering discounts to online shoppers who picked up their purchases from Walmart stores, although the details of this section remained heavily rewritten.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Amazon.com is facing allegations of using unlawful strategies to enhance its profits, including the implementation of an algorithm that inflated prices paid by U.

Amazon.com is facing allegations of using unlawful strategies to enhance its profits, including the implementation of an algorithm that inflated prices paid by U.S. households by over $1 billion, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC lawsuit, initially filed in September, revealed additional details in a less-redacted version made public on Thursday. This new version outlined Amazon's use of a "secret algorithm internally code-named 'Project Nessie' to identify specific products for which it predicts other online stores will follow Amazon's price increases." Amazon, boasting a vast online superstore with over 1 billion items, has been accused of utilising Project Nessie to extract over a billion dollars directly from American consumers. Amazon's spokesperson Tim Doyle refuted the FTC's characterisation of the pricing tool, emphasising that the company ceased using it several years ago. Doyle explained that Nessie aimed to prevent price matching from causing unsustainably low prices and insisted the tool was employed to maintain fair pricing practices. The FTC's complaint outlined how Amazon initiated testing of the pricing algorithm in 2010 to gauge whether competitors tracked its prices. Subsequently, Amazon would raise prices for products that were expected to be monitored by rival online retailers. When these competitors matched or increased their prices, Amazon would allegedly persist in selling the product at an inflated price, resulting in an excess profit of $1 billion. The FTC further claimed that Amazon paused the algorithm during its Prime Day and holiday shopping events to mitigate scrutiny. However, the lawsuit alleged that Amazon reactivated Project Nessie once public attention shifted elsewhere. The FTC's complaint also detailed Amazon's requirement for sellers under the Prime feature to use its logistics and delivery services, even when more cost-effective alternatives were available. The FTC contended that Amazon enforced this practice, even if sellers preferred to utilise other services that could also cater to customers from different platforms. The fees for Amazon's fulfilment services, charged to sellers, increased from 27 per cent in 2014 to 39.5 per cent in 2018, according to the FTC. In addition to the allegations regarding pricing and seller practices, the complaint raised questions about Amazon's treatment of other major online stores, such as Walmart.com. The complaint noted that Amazon doesn't permit significant online retailers like Walmart.com to sell on its platform. In response to the different treatment of Walmart.com compared to smaller sellers, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos cited the scale and competitive landscape as reasons for this differentiation. The complaint also mentioned that Amazon had allegedly discouraged Walmart from offering discounts to online shoppers who picked up their purchases from Walmart stores, although the details of this section remained heavily rewritten. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amazon accused of illegally boosting profits through secret algorithm

Donald Trump Jr, the former president's eldest son, on Wednesday told the judge in the civil fraud trial that threatens the family real estate business in New York that he had not been involved in the financial documents at the center of the prosecution.

Donald Trump's son Eric appears in court for testimony

India and the United States share the goal of preventing the spread of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Middle East, said a senior State Department official, on Thursday (Nov 2). Washington also noted that the Israel-Hamas war would be an important topic of discussion during the 2+2 ministerial meeting in New Delhi next week.&nbsp;

This comes ahead of Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s visit to the Indian capital for the 2+2 ministerial dialogue to meet Minister for External Affairs S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among other officials to discuss the “global concerns and developments in the Indo-Pacific,” the state department had said previously.

<h2>Blinken’s visit to India and conflict in Middle East</h2>

Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu told reporters that the 2+2 dialogue will be a key part of Blinken’s trip to Asia. He also said that the ministers will discuss the conflict between Israel and Hamas as well as the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Washington’s top diplomat is expected to reach Israel on Friday following which he will travel to Jordan and South Korea before arriving in India on November 10 for the ministerial dialogue.&nbsp;

“On Israel-Hamas, the Indian Government was direct in its condemnation of the Hamas terrorist attack and has also joined a chorus of nations, including the United States, that have called for sustained humanitarian access to Gaza,” said Lu.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-to-be-focus-blinken-austin-to-meet-jaishankar-rajnath-in-delhi-next-week-654125">China to be focus? Blinken, Austin to meet Jaishankar, Rajnath in Delhi next week</a>

He added, “With India, we share the goals of preventing this conflict from spreading, preserving stability in the Middle East, and advancing a two-state solution.”

This comes amid fears that Israel’s war with Hamas could expand and involve other militant groups and countries in the region. Notably, there has been a rise in attacks on Israeli forces by the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Hezbollah said it mounted multiple strikes on Israeli army positions including its first using explosive drones. Israel has since retaliated with air strikes on southern Lebanon in a sharp escalation of violence, on Thursday (Nov 2).

<h2>Where do India and the US stand on Israel-Hamas war?</h2>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was quick to condemn Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7 and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-of-india-stand-by-israel-pm-modi-tells-netanyahu-in-call-644906">expressed solidarity</a> with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;

As the war progressed, New Delhi also sent humanitarian aid to Gaza and recently called for a two-state solution for Israel-Palestine&nbsp;at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).&nbsp;

The UN General Assembly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-adopts-resolution-calling-for-humanitarian-truce-between-israel-and-hamas-heres-what-happened-652178">recently adopted</a> the Jordanian resolution which called for a humanitarian truce amid the war.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-time-israel-urges-india-to-designate-hamas-as-terrorist-organisation-651337">'It is time...': Israel urges India to designate Hamas a terrorist organisation</a>

However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-abstains-from-jordanian-led-unga-resolution-vote-that-didnt-mention-hamas-652157">India had abstained</a> from voting on the resolution and instead favoured the Canadian-led draft which called for humanitarian pauses and condemned Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel.&nbsp;

The US, which has backed Israel amid the war, has recently supported the idea of “humanitarian pauses” in fighting. “A humanitarian pause…is temporary, localized and focused,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

“Focused on a particular objective or objectives, humanitarian aid in, people out,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India and the United States share the goal of preventing the spread of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Middle East, said a senior State Department official, on Thursday (Nov 2).

India and the United States share the goal of preventing the spread of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Middle East, said a senior State Department official, on Thursday (Nov 2). Washington also noted that the Israel-Hamas war would be an important topic of discussion during the 2+2 ministerial meeting in New Delhi next week. This comes ahead of Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s visit to the Indian capital for the 2+2 ministerial dialogue to meet Minister for External Affairs S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among other officials to discuss the “global concerns and developments in the Indo-Pacific,” the state department had said previously. Blinken’s visit to India and conflict in Middle East Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu told reporters that the 2+2 dialogue will be a key part of Blinken’s trip to Asia. He also said that the ministers will discuss the conflict between Israel and Hamas as well as the war in Ukraine. Washington’s top diplomat is expected to reach Israel on Friday following which he will travel to Jordan and South Korea before arriving in India on November 10 for the ministerial dialogue. “On Israel-Hamas, the Indian Government was direct in its condemnation of the Hamas terrorist attack and has also joined a chorus of nations, including the United States, that have called for sustained humanitarian access to Gaza,” said Lu. ALSO READ | China to be focus? Blinken, Austin to meet Jaishankar, Rajnath in Delhi next week He added, “With India, we share the goals of preventing this conflict from spreading, preserving stability in the Middle East, and advancing a two-state solution.” This comes amid fears that Israel’s war with Hamas could expand and involve other militant groups and countries in the region. Notably, there has been a rise in attacks on Israeli forces by the Lebanon-based Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. Hezbollah said it mounted multiple strikes on Israeli army positions including its first using explosive drones. Israel has since retaliated with air strikes on southern Lebanon in a sharp escalation of violence, on Thursday (Nov 2). Where do India and the US stand on Israel-Hamas war? Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was quick to condemn Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7 and expressed solidarity with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu. As the war progressed, New Delhi also sent humanitarian aid to Gaza and recently called for a two-state solution for Israel-Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The UN General Assembly recently adopted the Jordanian resolution which called for a humanitarian truce amid the war. ALSO READ | 'It is time...': Israel urges India to designate Hamas a terrorist organisation However, India had abstained from voting on the resolution and instead favoured the Canadian-led draft which called for humanitarian pauses and condemned Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel. The US, which has backed Israel amid the war, has recently supported the idea of “humanitarian pauses” in fighting. “A humanitarian pause…is temporary, localized and focused,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters. “Focused on a particular objective or objectives, humanitarian aid in, people out,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

India and US share goal of preventing spread of conflict in Middle East: State department

China has reportedly cleaned up hundreds of "illegal foreign-related" weather stations that were allegedly spying on the country.

This is the latest broad counter-espionage campaign undertaken by Chinese leader Xi Jinping's government&nbsp;amid intensifying geopolitical tensions with the United States.

<h2>A national risk</h2>

China's top spy agency, the Ministry of State Security, on Tuesday (Oct 31) said it had discovered 'illegal meteorological stations' with foreign links, reported CNN.

It said that these weather stations were sending real-time updates outside China to foreign governments.

This, as per South China Morning Post (SCMP), was labelled an infringement upon its data rules and poses national security risks by China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-mocks-biden-for-gaffes-but-makes-the-same-senile-blunders-kettle-calling-pot-black-654717">Trump mocks Biden for gaffes, but makes the same 'senile' blunders. Kettle calling pot black?</a>

However, the nation failed to specify which foreign governments were allegedly at the receiving end of this data.

These facilities were found in 20 provinces across China. To detect them, China investigated over 3,000 overseas-related meteorological stations.&nbsp;

On WeChat, China's alternative to WhatsApp, the spy agency, said, "Meteorological data constitutes an essential component of data security and resource security; it is closely linked to national, food and ecological security, climate change, along with public interests."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltic-sea-situation-dire-due-to-human-activities-and-global-warming-report-654606">Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report</a>

"The illegal collection and cross-border transmission of meteorological data pose a threat to our country's sovereignty, security and development interests," it added.

As per the state security ministry, some of these spy weather stations were located near China's military and defence units, while others were near its main grain producer and were monitoring, analysing the nation's crop growth and production.

<h2>Do unto others...</h2>

Just eight months back, the US Air Force announced that it had shot down a suspected spy balloon that was flying across North American airspace. 
 
At the time, China said it was a civilian vessel being used for meteorological research.

The US at the time said that the spying attempt violated its sovereignty, and China labelled the western nation's response an overreaction.

This episode sent relations between the two nations plummeting to a new low and eventually halted top-level engagements for months.

<h2>Paranoid or vigilant?</h2>

This comes as, amid geopolitical tensions with the US, China grows wary of potential data leaks.&nbsp;

Recent months have seen China take stringent steps towards "proactively" defending itself against spies. 2023 also saw China introduce a new anti-espionage law legal basis over a wider range of data and digital activities.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has reportedly cleaned up hundreds of "illegal foreign-related" weather stations that were allegedly spying on the country. This is the latest broad counter-espionage campaign undertaken by Chinese leader Xi Jinping's government amid intensifying geopolitical tensions with the United States.

China has reportedly cleaned up hundreds of "illegal foreign-related" weather stations that were allegedly spying on the country. This is the latest broad counter-espionage campaign undertaken by Chinese leader Xi Jinping's government amid intensifying geopolitical tensions with the United States. A national risk China's top spy agency, the Ministry of State Security, on Tuesday (Oct 31) said it had discovered 'illegal meteorological stations' with foreign links, reported CNN. It said that these weather stations were sending real-time updates outside China to foreign governments. This, as per South China Morning Post (SCMP), was labelled an infringement upon its data rules and poses national security risks by China. Also read | Trump mocks Biden for gaffes, but makes the same 'senile' blunders. Kettle calling pot black? However, the nation failed to specify which foreign governments were allegedly at the receiving end of this data. These facilities were found in 20 provinces across China. To detect them, China investigated over 3,000 overseas-related meteorological stations. On WeChat, China's alternative to WhatsApp, the spy agency, said, "Meteorological data constitutes an essential component of data security and resource security; it is closely linked to national, food and ecological security, climate change, along with public interests." Also read | Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report "The illegal collection and cross-border transmission of meteorological data pose a threat to our country's sovereignty, security and development interests," it added. As per the state security ministry, some of these spy weather stations were located near China's military and defence units, while others were near its main grain producer and were monitoring, analysing the nation's crop growth and production. Do unto others... Just eight months back, the US Air Force announced that it had shot down a suspected spy balloon that was flying across North American airspace. At the time, China said it was a civilian vessel being used for meteorological research. The US at the time said that the spying attempt violated its sovereignty, and China labelled the western nation's response an overreaction. This episode sent relations between the two nations plummeting to a new low and eventually halted top-level engagements for months. Paranoid or vigilant? This comes as, amid geopolitical tensions with the US, China grows wary of potential data leaks. Recent months have seen China take stringent steps towards "proactively" defending itself against spies. 2023 also saw China introduce a new anti-espionage law legal basis over a wider range of data and digital activities. (With inputs from agencies)

China's top spy agency says foiled hundreds of weather stations relaying data to foreign governments

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin will arrive in India next week for the 2+2 ministerial dialogue in New Delhi. The visit will be part of Blinken's week-long tour that will also include trips to Israel, Jordan, Japan and South Korea.

US, India to discuss Israel-Hamas war & Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

A former gang member charged in the 1996 murder of hip-hop star&nbsp;Tupac&nbsp;Shakur pleaded not guilty on Thursday in a Las Vegas court.

Duane "Keffe D" Davis, 60, who police said was long suspected in the murder and began implicating himself in a series of public statements in recent years, responded "not guilty" when asked by Clark County district judge Tierra Jones if he wanted to enter a plea.

Davis was indicted in September by a Clark County grand jury and arrested in Las Vegas for Shakur's drive-by shooting death, a long-unsolved crime that became a defining moment in the history of rap music.

Davis was charged with one count of murder with a deadly weapon for his alleged role in leading a group of men to kill Shakur in a drive-by shooting near the Las Vegas strip.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tupac-shakur-receives-posthumous-star-on-hollywood-walk-of-fame-602012">Tupac Shakur receives posthumous star on Hollywood Walk of Fame</a>

Shakur, widely regarded as one of rap music's greatest artists, was also one of its most commercially successful, selling more than 75 million records worldwide.

Authorities said Davis orchestrated a plot to avenge the beating of his nephew, Orlando Anderson, inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena by Shakur and members of his entourage on the night of Sept. 7, 1996, just hours before the shooting.

At a news conference after Davis' arrest, police showed hotel security footage of several men kicking and punching a person they identified as Anderson near a bank of elevators before security personnel broke up the altercation.

That incident, police said, led to the retaliatory shooting death of Shakur.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/arrest-in-tupac-shakur-killing-stemmed-from-biggie-smalls-death-investigation-641173">Arrest in Tupac Shakur killing stemmed from Biggie Smalls death investigation</a>

After obtaining a gun from an unnamed associate, Davis, along with Anderson and two other men, Terrence Brown and Deandre Smith, got into a white Cadillac and rode off to find the black BMW that was carrying Shakur, police said.

When Davis and the others caught up to Shakur's vehicle, shots were fired from the Cadillac into the passenger side of the BMW. Shakur, struck four times, died in hospital six days later at the age of 25.

Authorities have not said who actually fired the gun at Shakur. The three others in the Cadillac with Davis have all since died.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/former-gang-leader-charged-with-rapper-tupac-shakurs-1996-murder-641094">Former gang leader charged with rapper Tupac Shakur's 1996 murder in Las Vegas</a>

Shakur was best known for raw lyrics laced with violence, sex and profanity describing life in the ghetto. He was no stranger to trouble, having spent much of the last two and a half years of his life in and out of court, jail or hospitals.

A former gang member charged in the 1996 murder of hip-hop star Tupac Shakur pleaded not guilty on Thursday in a Las Vegas court. Duane "Keffe D" Davis, 60, who police said was long suspected in the murder and began implicating himself in a series of public statements in recent years, responded "not guilty" when asked by Clark County district judge Tierra Jones if he wanted to enter a plea.

A former gang member charged in the 1996 murder of hip-hop star Tupac Shakur pleaded not guilty on Thursday in a Las Vegas court. Duane "Keffe D" Davis, 60, who police said was long suspected in the murder and began implicating himself in a series of public statements in recent years, responded "not guilty" when asked by Clark County district judge Tierra Jones if he wanted to enter a plea. Davis was indicted in September by a Clark County grand jury and arrested in Las Vegas for Shakur's drive-by shooting death, a long-unsolved crime that became a defining moment in the history of rap music. Davis was charged with one count of murder with a deadly weapon for his alleged role in leading a group of men to kill Shakur in a drive-by shooting near the Las Vegas strip. ALSO READ | Tupac Shakur receives posthumous star on Hollywood Walk of Fame Shakur, widely regarded as one of rap music's greatest artists, was also one of its most commercially successful, selling more than 75 million records worldwide. Authorities said Davis orchestrated a plot to avenge the beating of his nephew, Orlando Anderson, inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena by Shakur and members of his entourage on the night of Sept. 7, 1996, just hours before the shooting. At a news conference after Davis' arrest, police showed hotel security footage of several men kicking and punching a person they identified as Anderson near a bank of elevators before security personnel broke up the altercation. That incident, police said, led to the retaliatory shooting death of Shakur. ALSO READ | Arrest in Tupac Shakur killing stemmed from Biggie Smalls death investigation After obtaining a gun from an unnamed associate, Davis, along with Anderson and two other men, Terrence Brown and Deandre Smith, got into a white Cadillac and rode off to find the black BMW that was carrying Shakur, police said. When Davis and the others caught up to Shakur's vehicle, shots were fired from the Cadillac into the passenger side of the BMW. Shakur, struck four times, died in hospital six days later at the age of 25. Authorities have not said who actually fired the gun at Shakur. The three others in the Cadillac with Davis have all since died. ALSO READ | Former gang leader charged with rapper Tupac Shakur's 1996 murder in Las Vegas Shakur was best known for raw lyrics laced with violence, sex and profanity describing life in the ghetto. He was no stranger to trouble, having spent much of the last two and a half years of his life in and out of court, jail or hospitals.

Suspect in rapper Tupac Shakur's killing pleads not guilty in Las Vegas court

The US military is reportedly flying surveillance drones in Gaza to locate hostages held captive by Hamas as reported by New York Times. The MQ-9 Reaper drones have been spotted over the enclave and as for some US Defence Department officials, they are being used to locate hostages and monitor signs of life in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war | Reports: US drones flying over Gaza to locate hostages

The United States House of Representatives passed a Republican-led bill on Thursday (Nov 2) which would provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, defying President Joe Biden’s request to also include more money for Ukraine and other pressing issues. The bill was also passed despite Democrats’ insistence it has no future in the Senate while Biden had already promised to veto it.

The measure passed 226 to 196, largely along party lines, also diverts funding from the US tax collection agency Internal Revenue Service (IRS).&nbsp;

The vote also marks a shift from typical strong bipartisan congressional support for providing aid to Israel as 12 Democrats joined the 214 Republicans to vote in favour of the bill. Two Republicans and 194 Democrats voted against the measure.&nbsp;

<h2>Why will the bill be rejected?</h2>

The aid package for Israel is the first major legislative action under new Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, who was selected after weeks of chaos in the lower chamber of the US Congress.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-mike-johnson-becomes-speaker-of-the-us-house-of-representatives-651282">&nbsp;Republican Mike Johnson becomes Speaker of the US House of Representatives</a>

The bill also came as US lawmakers rushed to respond to the attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7, which according to Israeli authorities has claimed the lives of 1,400 people.&nbsp;

However, while Israel typically has strong bipartisan support in the US Congress, the bill combined aid for Israel with a cut to the IRS as well as left out Ukraine. Therefore, Biden had previously promised to veto it and Chuck Schumer, majority leader of the Democratic-controlled Senate said he would not bring it up for a vote.&nbsp;

In order for a bill to become a law, it has to pass both the House and Senate and be signed by the US president.&nbsp;

The House bill has sought to provide billions only for the Israeli military, which includes $4 billion for procurement of Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling defence systems to counter short-range rockets fired at Israel by Hamas from Gaza.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-as-the-war-in-ukraine-rages-on-will-2023-be-the-year-of-defence-companies-556570">Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies?</a>

Israel also receives $3.8 billion per year in US military assistance as a part of a decade-long plan that began in 2016. The House bill would also add nearly $30 billion to the US budget deficit, currently estimated at $1.7 trillion, said the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden’s $106 billion request from Congress</h2>

The US president has sought Congress’ approval of a broader $106 billion emergency spending package which would include funding for US border security and Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine, as well as humanitarian aid.&nbsp;

Biden has asked for $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel. The Senate majority leader has previously said that the upper chamber of the US Congress would consider a bipartisan bill addressing the broader priorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States House of Representatives passed a Republican-led bill on Thursday (Nov 2) which would provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, defying President Joe Biden’s request to also include more money for Ukraine and other pressing issues.

The United States House of Representatives passed a Republican-led bill on Thursday (Nov 2) which would provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, defying President Joe Biden’s request to also include more money for Ukraine and other pressing issues. The bill was also passed despite Democrats’ insistence it has no future in the Senate while Biden had already promised to veto it. The measure passed 226 to 196, largely along party lines, also diverts funding from the US tax collection agency Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The vote also marks a shift from typical strong bipartisan congressional support for providing aid to Israel as 12 Democrats joined the 214 Republicans to vote in favour of the bill. Two Republicans and 194 Democrats voted against the measure. Why will the bill be rejected? The aid package for Israel is the first major legislative action under new Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, who was selected after weeks of chaos in the lower chamber of the US Congress. ALSO READ | Republican Mike Johnson becomes Speaker of the US House of Representatives The bill also came as US lawmakers rushed to respond to the attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7, which according to Israeli authorities has claimed the lives of 1,400 people. However, while Israel typically has strong bipartisan support in the US Congress, the bill combined aid for Israel with a cut to the IRS as well as left out Ukraine. Therefore, Biden had previously promised to veto it and Chuck Schumer, majority leader of the Democratic-controlled Senate said he would not bring it up for a vote. In order for a bill to become a law, it has to pass both the House and Senate and be signed by the US president. The House bill has sought to provide billions only for the Israeli military, which includes $4 billion for procurement of Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling defence systems to counter short-range rockets fired at Israel by Hamas from Gaza. ALSO READ | Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies? Israel also receives $3.8 billion per year in US military assistance as a part of a decade-long plan that began in 2016. The House bill would also add nearly $30 billion to the US budget deficit, currently estimated at $1.7 trillion, said the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office on Wednesday. Biden’s $106 billion request from Congress The US president has sought Congress’ approval of a broader $106 billion emergency spending package which would include funding for US border security and Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine, as well as humanitarian aid. Biden has asked for $61 billion in military aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel. The Senate majority leader has previously said that the upper chamber of the US Congress would consider a bipartisan bill addressing the broader priorities. (With inputs from agencies)

US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine

Migrants from Mexico Guatemala Honduras and Ecuador are habitual asylum seekers in the United States. But recently there's been a rise in migrants from other countries like India.

Around 97,000 Indians held while illegally crossing into US

With the 2023 US election day coming up on November 7; there is a lot of excitement among large sections of the Indian American community with many in the race for offices across state legislatures and local elections.

Indian-American candidates in U.S. election day

There's one specific area where countries are finding a common ground to cooperate & collaborate. And that's the booming world of artificial intelligence, which poses opportunities as well as risks.

China to collaborate with US, EU on AI

India, along with countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and China,&nbsp;agreed to work to manage the risk that artificial intelligence (AI) poses, at a summit in London, on Wednesday (Nov 1) aimed at creating a safe way forward for the rapidly evolving technology.&nbsp;

India was among the 28 countries that signed the so-called Bletchley Declaration on the first day of the AI Safety Summit hosted by the UK government, through which the countries have agreed to work together on AI safety research.&nbsp; 
 
"We affirm that, whilst safety must be considered across the AI lifecycle, actors developing frontier AI capabilities, in particular those AI systems which are unusually powerful and potentially harmful, have a particularly strong responsibility for ensuring the safety of these AI systems, including through systems for safety testing, through evaluations, and by other appropriate measures," read a part of the declaration.

<h2>First international declaration</h2>

The summit is seen as the first Western effort to manage AI’s safe development after tech executives and lawmakers raised the alarm over the rapid development of the technology which poses an existential threat to the world if not regulated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/london-ai-summit-throws-spotlight-on-scientist-alan-turings-legacy-653814">London AI summit throws spotlight on scientist Alan Turing's legacy</a>

The concerns have sparked a race among nations to come up with plans to regulate AI. China’s vice minister, on Wednesday, joined the US and European leaders and tech bosses such as Elon Musk and ChatGPT’s Sam Altman at the summit in London. Beijing is seen as a key participant at the summit, given the country’s role in developing AI.&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, welcomed the declaration, calling it “quite incredible”. Ahead of his appearance at the summit, on Thursday (Nov 2), Sunak also said that nothing will be more “transformative” to future generations than technological advances like AI.&nbsp;

However, we “owe it to them to ensure AI develops in a safe and responsible way, gripping the risks it poses early enough in the process,” he added.&nbsp;

The communique marks a diplomatic success for the UK, and particularly Sunak given that the summit is his brainchild and took place after he expressed concern over AI models rapidly advancing with no oversight.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-signs-sweeping-executive-order-to-cut-ai-risks-to-public-national-security-653228">US President Biden signs sweeping executive order to regulate AI</a>

“For the first time, we now have countries agreeing that we need to look not just independently but collectively at the risk around frontier AI,” British digital minister Michelle Donelan told reporters.&nbsp;

She noted that it was an achievement just to get so many key players in one room. Donelan opened the summit by saying that the development of AI “can’t be left to chance or neglect or to private actors alone”.&nbsp;

She also announced two further AI Safety Summits, one to be held in South Korea in six months and another in France next year.&nbsp;

<h2>Questions raised over China’s participation</h2>

Ahead of the summit, several British lawmakers reportedly raised questions about China’s participation given the low level of trust between Beijing and Washington as well as several European nations, particularly in the context of Chinese involvement in technology.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-mission-impossible-dead-reckoning-sparked-joe-bidens-concerns-about-artificial-intelligence-653691">Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning sparked Joe Biden's concerns about artificial intelligence</a>

However, Washington’s Ambassador to London, Jane Hartley told Reuters, “This is the UK invitation, this is not the US.”

Notably, Donelan was joined by US commerce secretary, Gina Raimondo, and the Chinese vice-minister of science and technology, Wu Zhaohui in a rare show of unity.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

India, along with countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and China, agreed to work to manage the risk that artificial intelligence (AI) poses, at a summit in London, on Wednesday (Nov 1) aimed at creating a safe way forward for the rapidly evolving technology.

India, along with countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and China, agreed to work to manage the risk that artificial intelligence (AI) poses, at a summit in London, on Wednesday (Nov 1) aimed at creating a safe way forward for the rapidly evolving technology. India was among the 28 countries that signed the so-called Bletchley Declaration on the first day of the AI Safety Summit hosted by the UK government, through which the countries have agreed to work together on AI safety research. "We affirm that, whilst safety must be considered across the AI lifecycle, actors developing frontier AI capabilities, in particular those AI systems which are unusually powerful and potentially harmful, have a particularly strong responsibility for ensuring the safety of these AI systems, including through systems for safety testing, through evaluations, and by other appropriate measures," read a part of the declaration. First international declaration The summit is seen as the first Western effort to manage AI’s safe development after tech executives and lawmakers raised the alarm over the rapid development of the technology which poses an existential threat to the world if not regulated. ALSO READ | London AI summit throws spotlight on scientist Alan Turing's legacy The concerns have sparked a race among nations to come up with plans to regulate AI. China’s vice minister, on Wednesday, joined the US and European leaders and tech bosses such as Elon Musk and ChatGPT’s Sam Altman at the summit in London. Beijing is seen as a key participant at the summit, given the country’s role in developing AI. UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, welcomed the declaration, calling it “quite incredible”. Ahead of his appearance at the summit, on Thursday (Nov 2), Sunak also said that nothing will be more “transformative” to future generations than technological advances like AI. However, we “owe it to them to ensure AI develops in a safe and responsible way, gripping the risks it poses early enough in the process,” he added. The communique marks a diplomatic success for the UK, and particularly Sunak given that the summit is his brainchild and took place after he expressed concern over AI models rapidly advancing with no oversight. ALSO READ | US President Biden signs sweeping executive order to regulate AI “For the first time, we now have countries agreeing that we need to look not just independently but collectively at the risk around frontier AI,” British digital minister Michelle Donelan told reporters. She noted that it was an achievement just to get so many key players in one room. Donelan opened the summit by saying that the development of AI “can’t be left to chance or neglect or to private actors alone”. She also announced two further AI Safety Summits, one to be held in South Korea in six months and another in France next year. Questions raised over China’s participation Ahead of the summit, several British lawmakers reportedly raised questions about China’s participation given the low level of trust between Beijing and Washington as well as several European nations, particularly in the context of Chinese involvement in technology. ALSO READ | Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning sparked Joe Biden's concerns about artificial intelligence However, Washington’s Ambassador to London, Jane Hartley told Reuters, “This is the UK invitation, this is not the US.” Notably, Donelan was joined by US commerce secretary, Gina Raimondo, and the Chinese vice-minister of science and technology, Wu Zhaohui in a rare show of unity. (With inputs from agencies)

India among 28 countries to sign first international declaration to address risks of AI

The US secretary of state Antony Blinken has embarked on his second trip to west Asia. Speaking to the media Blinken from Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, says that the US is determined to prevent escalation. He asserts that we need to talk the steps to be taken to protect the civilians.

Blinken: challenging times, intensely difficult issues

A woman in the U.S. died after consuming an energy drink. Her parents have sued the company for improper labelling. Priyanka Sharma tells you what’s inside that can.

Gravitas: Are energy drinks safe? Woman dies in US after consuming one

It's official: Russian&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Nov 2) withdrew the country's ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).

This decision was motivated by Putin's desire to align Moscow with the United States, reported Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

On October 6, Russia declared its intention to withdraw from the CTBT to mirror the US, which had signed but not ratified the treaty.

This move came on the heels of unanimous approval by Russia's upper house Federation Council, with the lower house State Duma previously passing the bill in an accelerated vote. With Putin's signature, the legislation officially went into effect.

<h2>What's the purpose of CTBT?</h2>

The CTBT, established in 1996, aimed to outlaw all nuclear explosions, including live tests of nuclear weapons, but it faced challenges due to the lack of ratification by key countries.

While Putin's decision to withdraw from the treaty ostensibly aligns Russia with the US, it remains uncertain whether this action will lead to a resumption of nuclear weapons testing in Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-endures-biggest-russian-attack-since-start-of-the-year-with-over-100-settlements-targeted-654270">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted</a>

Putin himself has expressed uncertainty, stating on October 5, "I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not."

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has indicated that Moscow will continue to uphold the ban, resuming nuclear tests only if the US&nbsp;does the same.

Following the upper house vote, Russia conducted a "massive" retaliatory nuclear strike drill, involving missile tests from land-based silos, a nuclear submarine, and a long-range bomber aircraft, all overseen by Putin.

This move has raised concerns internationally, with the US&nbsp;expressing its dismay at Russia's decision. The US&nbsp;Department of State described it as a "disturbing" move that endangers the global norm against nuclear explosive testing.

The US&nbsp;suggested that Russia might be using arms control and nuclear rhetoric to pressure countries, particularly those supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russian forces.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims Russia launched new strikes

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-claims-russia-launched-new-strikes-654403/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With the withdrawal from the CTBT, the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) remains the last bilateral nuclear weapons treaty between the US&nbsp;and Russia. Under New START, both countries conducted regular inspections of each other's nuclear facilities and limited warheads.

However, Russia suspended the treaty in February, and it is set to expire in early 2026. Although the US&nbsp;has informally proposed resuming talks on strategic stability and arms control, Russia believes that such dialogue cannot occur without a fundamental shift in the US's hostile approach toward Russia.

Putin's decision to revoke the CTBT ratification has significant implications for global arms control efforts, as it underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and the US&nbsp;in the realm of nuclear weapons and strategic stability.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

It's official: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Nov 2) withdrew the country's ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). This decision was motivated by Putin's desire to align Moscow with the United States, reported Al Jazeera.

It's official: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Nov 2) withdrew the country's ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). This decision was motivated by Putin's desire to align Moscow with the United States, reported Al Jazeera. On October 6, Russia declared its intention to withdraw from the CTBT to mirror the US, which had signed but not ratified the treaty. This move came on the heels of unanimous approval by Russia's upper house Federation Council, with the lower house State Duma previously passing the bill in an accelerated vote. With Putin's signature, the legislation officially went into effect. What's the purpose of CTBT? The CTBT, established in 1996, aimed to outlaw all nuclear explosions, including live tests of nuclear weapons, but it faced challenges due to the lack of ratification by key countries. While Putin's decision to withdraw from the treaty ostensibly aligns Russia with the US, it remains uncertain whether this action will lead to a resumption of nuclear weapons testing in Russia. Also read | Ukraine endures 'biggest Russian attack since start of the year' with over 100 settlements targeted Putin himself has expressed uncertainty, stating on October 5, "I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not." Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has indicated that Moscow will continue to uphold the ban, resuming nuclear tests only if the US does the same. Following the upper house vote, Russia conducted a "massive" retaliatory nuclear strike drill, involving missile tests from land-based silos, a nuclear submarine, and a long-range bomber aircraft, all overseen by Putin. This move has raised concerns internationally, with the US expressing its dismay at Russia's decision. The US Department of State described it as a "disturbing" move that endangers the global norm against nuclear explosive testing. The US suggested that Russia might be using arms control and nuclear rhetoric to pressure countries, particularly those supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russian forces. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims Russia launched new strikes With the withdrawal from the CTBT, the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) remains the last bilateral nuclear weapons treaty between the US and Russia. Under New START, both countries conducted regular inspections of each other's nuclear facilities and limited warheads. However, Russia suspended the treaty in February, and it is set to expire in early 2026. Although the US has informally proposed resuming talks on strategic stability and arms control, Russia believes that such dialogue cannot occur without a fundamental shift in the US's hostile approach toward Russia. Putin's decision to revoke the CTBT ratification has significant implications for global arms control efforts, as it underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and the US in the realm of nuclear weapons and strategic stability. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Putin signs law revoking nuclear test ban treaty ratification

The police in New York have arrested and charged a Connell University student who is accused of posting violent threats to Jewish classmates over the weekend.

US: Cornell University on high alert because of threats to Jews over rise of anti-Semitism | WION

The United States Federal Reserve, on Wednesday (Nov 1) voted to keep the interest rate, which currently stands at a 22-year high, unchanged for a second straight meeting. The American central bank also acknowledged the US economy’s surprising strength but has indicated that it may increase borrowing costs in a policy statement.&nbsp;

The Fed’s recent decision would keep its benchmark lending rate between 5.25 per cent and 5.50 per cent where it has been since July. It also gives policymakers time to “assess additional information and its implications for monetary policy,” said the US central bank, in a statement following a two-day meeting.&nbsp;

The central bank has been aggressively raising interest rates since March last year in a bid to control the US’ soaring inflation. However, this was the first time that the officials held rates steady at two consecutive meetings.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Economic activity expanded’</h2>

“Economic activity expanded at a strong pace in the third quarter,” said the US central bank. This comes as recent data showed US gross domestic product (GDP) grew at a 4.9 per cent annual rate in the third quarter, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wion-business-wrap-weworks-woes-fall-in-us-consumer-confidence-653848">WION Business Wrap | WeWork's woes, fall in US consumer confidence</a>

Meanwhile, since peaking at more than seven per cent last June, inflation, as measured by the Fed’s yardstick, has slowed by more than half but continued to be stuck firmly above three per cent.

The statement by the US central bank also noted that job gains remained “strong” and inflation still “elevated,” adding that it would consider “the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time.”

<h2>‘Long way to go’</h2>

The US has a “long way to go” in bringing the inflation down to officials’ two per cent target sustainably, said Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at a press conference after the initial statement.&nbsp;

“A few months of good data are only the beginning of what it will take to build confidence that inflation is moving down sustainably toward our goal,” said Powell. He also said that they are monitoring a rise in longer-term yields.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/data-lab-women-led-startups-now-forge-18-share-in-indias-booming-startup-ecosystem-653993">Data Lab: Women-led Indian startups surge to 18% in past five years</a>

“We’re attentive to the increase in longer-term yields, which have contributed to a tightening of broader financial conditions since the summer,” said the Fed chair.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as per Reuters, markets think the Fed may be done with its rate-hiking campaign. “The statement leans to the dovish side,” said Peter Cardillo, chief market economist at Spartan Capital Securities.

“The fact that they left rates unchanged for the second time in a row suggests the Fed might leave rates unchanged in December. And if they do, that means the Fed is done,” he added.&nbsp;

Powell said that the Fed is not discussing interest rate cuts “at all”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-consumer-confidence-hits-a-five-month-low-653811">US consumer confidence hits a five-month low</a>

“The fact is the committee is not thinking about rate cuts, right now at all. We’re not talking about rate cuts,” said the Fed chair.&nbsp;

The earlier statement by the US central bank also said that the Fed is watching the developing impact of its past rate hikes as it is thinking about the next steps, indicating that the full impact of the 5.25 percentage points in rate hikes since March of 2022 has yet to be felt.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United States Federal Reserve, on Wednesday (Nov 1) voted to keep the interest rate, which currently stands at a 22-year high, unchanged for a second straight meeting.

The United States Federal Reserve, on Wednesday (Nov 1) voted to keep the interest rate, which currently stands at a 22-year high, unchanged for a second straight meeting. The American central bank also acknowledged the US economy’s surprising strength but has indicated that it may increase borrowing costs in a policy statement. The Fed’s recent decision would keep its benchmark lending rate between 5.25 per cent and 5.50 per cent where it has been since July. It also gives policymakers time to “assess additional information and its implications for monetary policy,” said the US central bank, in a statement following a two-day meeting. The central bank has been aggressively raising interest rates since March last year in a bid to control the US’ soaring inflation. However, this was the first time that the officials held rates steady at two consecutive meetings. ‘Economic activity expanded’ “Economic activity expanded at a strong pace in the third quarter,” said the US central bank. This comes as recent data showed US gross domestic product (GDP) grew at a 4.9 per cent annual rate in the third quarter, reported Reuters. ALSO READ | WION Business Wrap | WeWork's woes, fall in US consumer confidence Meanwhile, since peaking at more than seven per cent last June, inflation, as measured by the Fed’s yardstick, has slowed by more than half but continued to be stuck firmly above three per cent. The statement by the US central bank also noted that job gains remained “strong” and inflation still “elevated,” adding that it would consider “the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time.” ‘Long way to go’ The US has a “long way to go” in bringing the inflation down to officials’ two per cent target sustainably, said Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at a press conference after the initial statement. “A few months of good data are only the beginning of what it will take to build confidence that inflation is moving down sustainably toward our goal,” said Powell. He also said that they are monitoring a rise in longer-term yields. ALSO READ | Data Lab: Women-led Indian startups surge to 18% in past five years “We’re attentive to the increase in longer-term yields, which have contributed to a tightening of broader financial conditions since the summer,” said the Fed chair. Meanwhile, as per Reuters, markets think the Fed may be done with its rate-hiking campaign. “The statement leans to the dovish side,” said Peter Cardillo, chief market economist at Spartan Capital Securities. “The fact that they left rates unchanged for the second time in a row suggests the Fed might leave rates unchanged in December. And if they do, that means the Fed is done,” he added. Powell said that the Fed is not discussing interest rate cuts “at all”. ALSO READ | US consumer confidence hits a five-month low “The fact is the committee is not thinking about rate cuts, right now at all. We’re not talking about rate cuts,” said the Fed chair. The earlier statement by the US central bank also said that the Fed is watching the developing impact of its past rate hikes as it is thinking about the next steps, indicating that the full impact of the 5.25 percentage points in rate hikes since March of 2022 has yet to be felt. (With inputs from agencies)

US Federal Reserve keeps interest rates unchanged at 22-year high, says economy is ‘strong’

Saudi Minister of Defence Prince Khalid bin Salman met US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the headquarters of the Department of Defense in Washington on Wednesday.

Saudi, US defense ministers hold wide-ranging talks in Washington

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The United States Vice President Kamala Harris arrived in London for a visit, on Wednesday (Nov 1) and her motorcade en route to the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s residence was met with hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters chanting “ceasefire now” amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

The US and UK have repeatedly backed Israel and its right to defend itself against the Palestinian militant group. However, Israel has garnered criticism from the United Nations, humanitarian organisations and other countries for alleged war crimes as Israeli forces continue to bombard Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Ceasefire now’</h2>

The US VP’s motorcade was met with hundreds of protesters outside the UK PM’s residence in Downing Street, chanting “ceasefire now” and “shame on you”. Georgie Robertson, a protester outside Downing Street, told the Guardian that the protest was called on a short notice after activists learned about the meeting on a news forward planning service.&nbsp;

“There’s hundreds of people stood outside Downing Street chanting…We were here when the motorcade arrived and everyone is chanting very loudly, being very disruptive. Masses of people mobilised at really short notice,” Robertson told the British media outlet.&nbsp; 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
HAPPENING NOW: Kamala Harris arrives for meeting with Rishi Sunak to cries of “ceasefire now” and “shame on you”. 
 
We only found out an hour ago but hundreds mobilised. We will follow politicians wherever they go demanding an end to complicity in Israel’s genocide. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreePalestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreePalestine</a> <a href="https://t.co/w8dXB6netE">pic.twitter.com/w8dXB6netE</a>
— Georgie Robertson (@_GeorgieBlaise) <a href="https://twitter.com/_GeorgieBlaise/status/1719772870207762765?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>UK PM and US VP meeting</h2>

During the meeting, Sunak and Harris reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself after the “appalling” Palestinian militant group Hamas’ attacks on October 7, said the White House in a statement about the meeting between the two leaders.&nbsp;

The US VP and UK PM also welcomed the decision to allow foreign nationals to leave Gaza and discussed the “importance of the protection of civilians in Gaza, the law of war and increasing the pace and scale of humanitarian assistance to innocent civilians in Gaza.”

Notably, both London and Washington have called for humanitarian pauses in fighting but not for a ceasefire in Gaza.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said the UK is trying to arrange a temporary cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip so that more humanitarian aid can be delivered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States Vice President Kamala Harris arrived in London for a visit, on Wednesday (Nov 1) and her motorcade en route to the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s residence was met with hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters chanting “ceasefire now” amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The United States Vice President Kamala Harris arrived in London for a visit, on Wednesday (Nov 1) and her motorcade en route to the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s residence was met with hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters chanting “ceasefire now” amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The US and UK have repeatedly backed Israel and its right to defend itself against the Palestinian militant group. However, Israel has garnered criticism from the United Nations, humanitarian organisations and other countries for alleged war crimes as Israeli forces continue to bombard Gaza. ‘Ceasefire now’ The US VP’s motorcade was met with hundreds of protesters outside the UK PM’s residence in Downing Street, chanting “ceasefire now” and “shame on you”. Georgie Robertson, a protester outside Downing Street, told the Guardian that the protest was called on a short notice after activists learned about the meeting on a news forward planning service. “There’s hundreds of people stood outside Downing Street chanting…We were here when the motorcade arrived and everyone is chanting very loudly, being very disruptive. Masses of people mobilised at really short notice,” Robertson told the British media outlet. HAPPENING NOW: Kamala Harris arrives for meeting with Rishi Sunak to cries of “ceasefire now” and “shame on you”. We only found out an hour ago but hundreds mobilised. We will follow politicians wherever they go demanding an end to complicity in Israel’s genocide. #FreePalestine pic.twitter.com/w8dXB6netE — Georgie Robertson (@_GeorgieBlaise) November 1, 2023 × UK PM and US VP meeting During the meeting, Sunak and Harris reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself after the “appalling” Palestinian militant group Hamas’ attacks on October 7, said the White House in a statement about the meeting between the two leaders. The US VP and UK PM also welcomed the decision to allow foreign nationals to leave Gaza and discussed the “importance of the protection of civilians in Gaza, the law of war and increasing the pace and scale of humanitarian assistance to innocent civilians in Gaza.” Notably, both London and Washington have called for humanitarian pauses in fighting but not for a ceasefire in Gaza. Earlier this week, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said the UK is trying to arrange a temporary cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip so that more humanitarian aid can be delivered. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | UK PM Sunak welcomes US VP Kamala Harris amid pro-Palestinian protests outside Downing Street

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