The United States said Tuesday that Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan.

"We have made a number of proposals, including a substantial one in recent weeks," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.&nbsp;

"That proposal was rejected by Russia," he said.

Miller said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President Joe Biden would keep trying to find a way to free the pair, considered "wrongfully detained" by the State Department.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-court-extends-detention-of-us-reporter-evan-gershkovich-until-end-of-january-663801">Russian court extends detention of US reporter Evan Gershkovich until end of January</a>

"They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should vote be released immediately," Miller said.

"There is no prior higher priority for the secretary of state. There is no higher priority for the president."

He declined to give further details on the proposal, including whether Russians could be released.

The United States, despite a sharp deterioration of ties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has arranged two prisoner swaps -- including one that freed basketball star Brittney Griner, who was detained over traces of cannabis.

Gershkovich, 32, was arrested during a reporting trip at the end of March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, becoming the first Western reporter to be jailed on spying charges in Russia since the Soviet era.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-marine-paul-whelan-imprisoned-in-russia-assaulted-by-fellow-inmate-664136">Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate</a>

The reporter, his newspaper and the US government all strongly deny he was involved in espionage.

A Moscow court last week extended his detention until January.

Whelan worked in security for a US vehicle parts company when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018 and has always asserted that the evidence against him was falsified.

His family said last week that Whelan was assaulted in prison by a fellow inmate, potentially because of his nationality.

The United States said Tuesday that Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan.

The United States said Tuesday that Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan. "We have made a number of proposals, including a substantial one in recent weeks," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters. "That proposal was rejected by Russia," he said. Miller said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President Joe Biden would keep trying to find a way to free the pair, considered "wrongfully detained" by the State Department. ALSO READ | Russian court extends detention of US reporter Evan Gershkovich until end of January "They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should vote be released immediately," Miller said. "There is no prior higher priority for the secretary of state. There is no higher priority for the president." He declined to give further details on the proposal, including whether Russians could be released. The United States, despite a sharp deterioration of ties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has arranged two prisoner swaps -- including one that freed basketball star Brittney Griner, who was detained over traces of cannabis. Gershkovich, 32, was arrested during a reporting trip at the end of March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, becoming the first Western reporter to be jailed on spying charges in Russia since the Soviet era. ALSO READ | Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate The reporter, his newspaper and the US government all strongly deny he was involved in espionage. A Moscow court last week extended his detention until January. Whelan worked in security for a US vehicle parts company when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018 and has always asserted that the evidence against him was falsified. His family said last week that Whelan was assaulted in prison by a fellow inmate, potentially because of his nationality.

US says Russia rejected 'substantial' proposal to free two Americans

Doctors believe that a group of 10 to 12 babies in the United States born with multiple congenital malformations could be suffering from a new syndrome related to exposure to fentanyl in the womb.&nbsp;

Healthcare professionals from across the country, in a recent report, found the group of babies whose mothers had used fentanyl while pregnant were born with an abnormally small head, short body, and physical birth defects like a cleft palate or fused toes.

<img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69a7e148-6f11-46f6-b6cd-804a6376009b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-12-06T132744.908.png" />

<h4>The image shows six babies identified and enrolled as a part of the study in a photo published in an article in Genetics in Medicine Open.&nbsp;</h4>

The doctors could not find any common genetic cause for the babies’ condition. However, their mothers admitted that they used street drugs, particularly fentanyl, while they were pregnant, leading the researchers to believe that exposure to the synthetic opioid was the root cause of these abnormalities. &nbsp;

<h2>What did the study find?</h2>

The study was published by a group of healthcare professionals in Genetics in Medicine Open. “In light of the ongoing fentanyl use epidemic, public health impact of the novel syndrome associated with prenatal fentanyl exposure is likely to be significant,” the authors wrote in the report.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-senator-chuck-schumer-accuses-chinese-firms-of-fuelling-fentanyl-crisis-during-visit-to-shanghai-643836">Top US Senator Chuck Schumer accuses Chinese firms of ‘fuelling’ fentanyl crisis</a>

The research began with the identification and enrollment of six babies who were identified with the potential syndrome at Nemours Children’s Health in Delaware. Additionally, four babies with similar features were found in the US states of California, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, but they were not enrolled.

All the babies were initially believed to have Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome which is a genetic developmental disorder that affects many parts of the body and is caused by a cholesterol metabolism issue which is necessary for normal cell function and brain development.

However, researchers found that the 10 children did not exhibit any features of SLOS or any other syndrome.&nbsp;

Erin Wadman, a genetic counsellor at Nemours, in an interview with NBC News said that the cases were linked in 2022 when she was asked to consult in the case of a baby who had been born with birth defects.

It was during the appointment that she was able to link all the aspects, including the features of the child and the story of her past patients. “I was sitting there in the appointment, and I was just like this face looks so familiar. This story sounds so familiar. And I was just thinking about how this patient reminded me so much of a patient I'd seen earlier in the year,” Wadmen said, as quoted by NBC News.&nbsp;

She added, “That’s when we were like we think we might have stumbled on something really big here.”

<h2>'Critical importance'</h2>

Eventually, Wadman and her colleague at Nemours, Dr Karen Gripp, a geneticist and paediatrician suspected that fentanyl may be causing similar disruptions to cholesterol metabolism during pregnancy.

“Although fentanyl’s effect on cholesterol metabolism has not been directly tested, based on indirect evidence it is biologically plausible that it affects cholesterol metabolism in the developing fetus,” the authors wrote.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-fentanyl-seized-in-2022-enough-to-kill-every-american-says-us-federal-drug-agency-545087">Explained: Fentanyl seized in 2022 enough to kill every American, says US federal drug agency</a>

The researchers also acknowledged the gaps in their report including “lack of quantifiable prenatal drug exposure and lack of laboratory evidence directly showing fentanyl’s effect on cholesterol metabolism and embryological development”.&nbsp;

However, they said that the recognition of the novel syndrome linked with prenatal fentanyl exposure is of “critical importance”.&nbsp;

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. In 2022, US officials seized enough fentanyl to kill every American as the country continues to struggle with an epidemic of drug overdose deaths.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Doctors believe that a group of 10 to 12 babies in the United States born with multiple congenital malformations could be suffering from a new syndrome related to exposure to fentanyl in the womb.

Doctors believe that a group of 10 to 12 babies in the United States born with multiple congenital malformations could be suffering from a new syndrome related to exposure to fentanyl in the womb. Healthcare professionals from across the country, in a recent report, found the group of babies whose mothers had used fentanyl while pregnant were born with an abnormally small head, short body, and physical birth defects like a cleft palate or fused toes. The image shows six babies identified and enrolled as a part of the study in a photo published in an article in Genetics in Medicine Open. The doctors could not find any common genetic cause for the babies’ condition. However, their mothers admitted that they used street drugs, particularly fentanyl, while they were pregnant, leading the researchers to believe that exposure to the synthetic opioid was the root cause of these abnormalities. What did the study find? The study was published by a group of healthcare professionals in Genetics in Medicine Open. “In light of the ongoing fentanyl use epidemic, public health impact of the novel syndrome associated with prenatal fentanyl exposure is likely to be significant,” the authors wrote in the report. ALSO READ | Top US Senator Chuck Schumer accuses Chinese firms of ‘fuelling’ fentanyl crisis The research began with the identification and enrollment of six babies who were identified with the potential syndrome at Nemours Children’s Health in Delaware. Additionally, four babies with similar features were found in the US states of California, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, but they were not enrolled. All the babies were initially believed to have Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome which is a genetic developmental disorder that affects many parts of the body and is caused by a cholesterol metabolism issue which is necessary for normal cell function and brain development. However, researchers found that the 10 children did not exhibit any features of SLOS or any other syndrome. Erin Wadman, a genetic counsellor at Nemours, in an interview with NBC News said that the cases were linked in 2022 when she was asked to consult in the case of a baby who had been born with birth defects. It was during the appointment that she was able to link all the aspects, including the features of the child and the story of her past patients. “I was sitting there in the appointment, and I was just like this face looks so familiar. This story sounds so familiar. And I was just thinking about how this patient reminded me so much of a patient I'd seen earlier in the year,” Wadmen said, as quoted by NBC News. She added, “That’s when we were like we think we might have stumbled on something really big here.” 'Critical importance' Eventually, Wadman and her colleague at Nemours, Dr Karen Gripp, a geneticist and paediatrician suspected that fentanyl may be causing similar disruptions to cholesterol metabolism during pregnancy. “Although fentanyl’s effect on cholesterol metabolism has not been directly tested, based on indirect evidence it is biologically plausible that it affects cholesterol metabolism in the developing fetus,” the authors wrote. ALSO READ | Explained: Fentanyl seized in 2022 enough to kill every American, says US federal drug agency The researchers also acknowledged the gaps in their report including “lack of quantifiable prenatal drug exposure and lack of laboratory evidence directly showing fentanyl’s effect on cholesterol metabolism and embryological development”. However, they said that the recognition of the novel syndrome linked with prenatal fentanyl exposure is of “critical importance”. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. In 2022, US officials seized enough fentanyl to kill every American as the country continues to struggle with an epidemic of drug overdose deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Cleft palate, fused toes: Fentanyl likely causing certain birth defects in newborns

Hate speech targeting Jews is rising in the West. In the latest, the White House condemned a group of protesters who massed enchanted in front of Israeli Falafel shop in Philadelphia.

US President Joe Biden slams Philadelphia's anti-semitic rally at Falafel shop owned by Israeli chef

Ukraine continues to hold its ground against the year-long Russian invasion but funding continues to be a concern for Kyiv. Russia claims it repelled Ukrainian attacks in multiple directions in the past week Russia inflicted 31 group strikes with precision weapons and drones on the Ukrainian military infrastructure.

Ukraine faces existential crisis as perfect storm brews in US

A US appeals court has overturned a $2.18 billion patent-infringement award against intel. The court nullified the 2021 verdict, which found intel guilty of infringing one VLSI patent. This decision, one of the largest in US patent law history, triggers a reset in the high-stakes clash between the tech giants.

US appeals court orders new trial in VLSI vs Intel patent battle | World Business Watch

From the deadliest mass shooting in recent times to a massive death toll of 35,000 this year, each statistic is a life cut short. America's gun violence epidemic is seeing a rise in suicides and police-involved incidents among a range of firearm related fatalities. As debates rage and political divides widen, one is left to introspect the balance between the constitutional right to bear arms and the right to life.

Gravitas: Counting the Cost: The Rising Numbers in US Gun Violence

In the latest, the cyclonic storm named 'Michaung,' initially situated over the south coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, has shifted northward in the past six hours. The latest observation verifies the completion of the storm's landfall process. In other news,&nbsp;a blast in Peshawar, Pakistan's northwestern city, resulted in injuries to at least four children, aged between seven and ten, along with three adults.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-michaung-live-updates-five-deaths-in-tamil-nadu-cyclone-to-make-landfall-in-andhra-today-666232">Cyclone Michaung LIVE Updates: ‘Storm completes landfall process,’ says IMD, death toll reaches 12</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397426-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-12-05t204411878.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The cyclonic storm named ‘Michaung,’ previously located over the south coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, has moved northward in the last six hours. The most recent observation confirms that the storm has completed its landfall process.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-it-happened-new-clips-emerge-of-hamas-landing-on-israeli-beach-killing-soldier-teens-on-oct-7-666511">As it happened: New clips emerge of Hamas landing on Israeli beach, killing soldier, teens on Oct 7</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397399-untitled-design-11.png?imwidth=3840" />

Nearly two months after Hamas' surprise attack on Israel led to the killing of over a thousand innocent Israelis, a chilling video footage has emerged, showing how the terrorists killed a soldier and civilians at the Zikim beach on October 7.&nbsp;

The beach, situated north of Gaza, was infiltrated by Hamas after its terrorists landed on the shore in a small dinghy. A group of Israeli teens who had been camping over the weekend on the beach quickly hid&nbsp;themselves but were slaughtered mercilessly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-at-least-seven-injured-including-four-children-in-peshawar-ied-blast-police-vehicle-was-target-666392">Pakistan: At least seven injured, including four children, in Peshawar IED blast; police vehicle was target</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397329-peshawar-blast-1701758185.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

At least four children, aged between seven and ten, and three adults were injured in a blast that occurred in Pakistan’s northwestern city of Peshawar early Tuesday (Dec 5).

According to officials, an improvised explosive device (IED) containing four kilogrammes of explosives went off on a busy road at around 9:10 am local time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shedding-colonial-baggage-navy-to-indianise-non-officer-ranks-announces-pm-modi-666472">Shedding colonial baggage: Navy to 'Indianise' non-officer ranks, announces PM Modi</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397381-untitled-design-9.png?imwidth=3840" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Dec 4) announced that the Indian Navy will now 'Indianise' the ranks for personnel below officer (PBOR) while senior officers will don epaulettes highlighting the "heritage and legacy" of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj - founder of the Maratha empire. PM Modi made the groundbreaking announcement during his Navy Day address at Sindhudurg in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-as-debate-over-fossil-fuels-rages-on-at-cop28-summit-global-co2-emissions-hit-record-high-in-2023-666515">Explained: Global CO2 emissions due to fossil fuels hit new record. Will world leaders at COP28 act now?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397402-untitled-design-37.png?imwidth=3840" />

While world leaders from nearly 200 countries are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop28-summit-could-the-world-agree-to-ditch-fossil-fuels-at-cop28-664131">debating</a>&nbsp;the course of action&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-46-million-health-professionals-ask-cop28-president-to-ditch-fossil-fuels-653674">on fossil fuels</a>&nbsp;at the United Nations&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop28-summit-kicks-off-with-breakthrough-climate-disaster-fund-agreement-664840">climate summit COP28</a>&nbsp;in Dubai, a team of scientists, on Tuesday (Dec 5) released a report saying that global carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels are set to hit a record high in 2023.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-weekend-shootings-in-us-set-a-grim-record-report-666419">With 38 mass shootings, US crosses grim record for first time since 2006</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397358-tampa-shooting.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Two mass shootings during the weekend in the United States pushed the country to a grim record of mass killings. According to a report by The Washington Post on Monday (Dec 4), the shootings in Texas and Washington last Sunday were the 37th and 38th shootings this year in which four or more victims were killed, the highest number of mass killings since at least 2006.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mount-marapi-death-toll-rises-to-22-after-indonesian-volcanos-eruption-666535">Mount Marapi: Death toll rises to 22 after Indonesian volcano's eruption</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/04/397040-volcano.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Two days after the surprise eruption of Indonesia's Mount Marapi, the rescuers have discovered the bodies of 22&nbsp;people so far from the slopes of the volcano, according to an&nbsp;AFP&nbsp;report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-govt-introduces-tighter-worker-visa-rules-rishi-sunak-dubs-it-radical-666459">UK govt introduces tighter work visa rules, Rishi Sunak calls it ‘radical measure’ to curb immigration</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397374-sunak.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The Rishi Sunak-led government has introduced a new law in the parliament that seeks to curb immigration by imposing stricter working visa rules, ahead of the general elections next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-army-drone-strike-accidently-kills-85-civilians-prez-orders-investigation-666445">Nigeria: Army drone strikes civilians accidently, kills 85; president orders investigation</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/05/397367-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=3840" />

Eighty-five civilians were killed in a village in Nigeria's Kaduna State after an army drone was accidentally fired at them. According to a report by the news agency AFP on Tuesday (Dec 5), the army acknowledged that one of its drones aimed at armed groups had accidentally struck the Tudun Biri village as residents were celebrating a festival. The army did not give details about how many people died, but residents said that the death toll was 85.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-karni-sena-chief-sukhdev-singh-gogamedi-shot-dead-outside-his-home-666450">India: Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi shot dead at his home in Jaipur</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/37199-dssujisvaaav0ex-20171230103119.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president&nbsp;Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead on Tuesday (Dec 5) in the western Indian city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. The incident transpired in Shyam Nagar area of the city where two men who were with Gogamedi also suffered injuries.&nbsp;

In the latest, the cyclonic storm named 'Michaung,' initially situated over the south coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, has shifted northward in the past six hours.

In the latest, the cyclonic storm named 'Michaung,' initially situated over the south coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, has shifted northward in the past six hours. The latest observation verifies the completion of the storm's landfall process. In other news, a blast in Peshawar, Pakistan's northwestern city, resulted in injuries to at least four children, aged between seven and ten, along with three adults. Click on the headlines to read more. Cyclone Michaung LIVE Updates: ‘Storm completes landfall process,’ says IMD, death toll reaches 12 The cyclonic storm named ‘Michaung,’ previously located over the south coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, has moved northward in the last six hours. The most recent observation confirms that the storm has completed its landfall process. As it happened: New clips emerge of Hamas landing on Israeli beach, killing soldier, teens on Oct 7 Nearly two months after Hamas' surprise attack on Israel led to the killing of over a thousand innocent Israelis, a chilling video footage has emerged, showing how the terrorists killed a soldier and civilians at the Zikim beach on October 7. The beach, situated north of Gaza, was infiltrated by Hamas after its terrorists landed on the shore in a small dinghy. A group of Israeli teens who had been camping over the weekend on the beach quickly hid themselves but were slaughtered mercilessly. Pakistan: At least seven injured, including four children, in Peshawar IED blast; police vehicle was target At least four children, aged between seven and ten, and three adults were injured in a blast that occurred in Pakistan’s northwestern city of Peshawar early Tuesday (Dec 5). According to officials, an improvised explosive device (IED) containing four kilogrammes of explosives went off on a busy road at around 9:10 am local time. Shedding colonial baggage: Navy to 'Indianise' non-officer ranks, announces PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Dec 4) announced that the Indian Navy will now 'Indianise' the ranks for personnel below officer (PBOR) while senior officers will don epaulettes highlighting the "heritage and legacy" of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj - founder of the Maratha empire. PM Modi made the groundbreaking announcement during his Navy Day address at Sindhudurg in Maharashtra. Explained: Global CO2 emissions due to fossil fuels hit new record. Will world leaders at COP28 act now? While world leaders from nearly 200 countries are debating the course of action on fossil fuels at the United Nations climate summit COP28 in Dubai, a team of scientists, on Tuesday (Dec 5) released a report saying that global carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels are set to hit a record high in 2023. With 38 mass shootings, US crosses grim record for first time since 2006 Two mass shootings during the weekend in the United States pushed the country to a grim record of mass killings. According to a report by The Washington Post on Monday (Dec 4), the shootings in Texas and Washington last Sunday were the 37th and 38th shootings this year in which four or more victims were killed, the highest number of mass killings since at least 2006. Mount Marapi: Death toll rises to 22 after Indonesian volcano's eruption Two days after the surprise eruption of Indonesia's Mount Marapi, the rescuers have discovered the bodies of 22 people so far from the slopes of the volcano, according to an AFP report. UK govt introduces tighter work visa rules, Rishi Sunak calls it ‘radical measure’ to curb immigration The Rishi Sunak-led government has introduced a new law in the parliament that seeks to curb immigration by imposing stricter working visa rules, ahead of the general elections next year. Nigeria: Army drone strikes civilians accidently, kills 85; president orders investigation Eighty-five civilians were killed in a village in Nigeria's Kaduna State after an army drone was accidentally fired at them. According to a report by the news agency AFP on Tuesday (Dec 5), the army acknowledged that one of its drones aimed at armed groups had accidentally struck the Tudun Biri village as residents were celebrating a festival. The army did not give details about how many people died, but residents said that the death toll was 85. India: Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi shot dead at his home in Jaipur Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead on Tuesday (Dec 5) in the western Indian city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. The incident transpired in Shyam Nagar area of the city where two men who were with Gogamedi also suffered injuries.

Top 10 world news: Cyclone Michaung completes landfall, Indonesian volcano eruption, and more

Farmers in Ivory coast have found a new promising business - breeding giant snails in order to avoid them from going extinct because of deforestation or pesticides. The same action is happening in South Africa where farmers of a prized South African sea snail called abalone are fighting to protect the species from poaching

Giant snails: Tasty in the West, hunted in the South

In a letter to the house speaker, the director of the office of management and budget, Shalanda Young, warns time is rapidly running out to support Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion.

White house warns Putin could win if Ukraine aid dries up

In the alleged plot to murder Khalistani terrorist in the US - Pannun - senior US officials lead a delegation in India to discuss the alleged murder plot. White House deputy National Security Advisor lead the US delegation.

Senior US officials visit India amid Indian probe into SFJ Chief Pannun murder plot | WION

The United States has expanded its visa restriction policy for Ugandan officials. This comes as authorities in Uganda are accused of undermining democracy and oppressing marginalised groups.

US restricts visa for Uganda, Zimbabwe officials, restrictions for undermining democracy | WION

The United States on Monday (Dec 4) expanded its visa restriction policy for Ugandan officials involved in undermining democracy and repressing marginalized groups in Uganda.

It also unveiled a new policy for officials in Zimbabwe.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a statement saying that the US would refuse visas to current or former officials along with their family members in case they are found to be involved in "repressing members of marginalized or vulnerable populations" like the LGBT community.

"Today, I am announcing the expansion of the visa restriction policy to include current or former Ugandan officials or others who are believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Uganda or for policies or actions aimed at repressing members of marginalized or vulnerable populations," Blinken said on Monday.

"These groups include, but are not limited to, environmental activists, human rights defenders, journalists, LGBTQI+ persons, and civil society organizers," he said.

"I once again strongly encourage the government of Uganda to make concerted efforts to uphold democracy and to respect and protect human rights so that we may sustain the decades-long partnership between our countries that has benefited Americans and Ugandans alike," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-us-aid-for-ukraine-would-allow-putin-to-prevail-warns-white-house-666210">Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House</a>

Uganda's anti-LGBTQ law, which is considered one of the harshest in the world, carries the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality" in certain circumstances.

Earlier, US President Joe Biden and the European Union and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have strongly denounced Uganda for imposing such a law against homosexuality.

He then also introduced a new visa restriction policy for the ones responsible for undermining democracy in Zimbabwe.

"Anyone who undermines the democratic process in Zimbabwe - including in the lead-up to, during, and following Zimbabwe's August 2023 elections - may be found ineligible for US&nbsp;visas under this policy," Blinken said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Monday (Dec 4) expanded its visa restriction policy for Ugandan officials involved in undermining democracy and repressing marginalized groups in Uganda.

The United States on Monday (Dec 4) expanded its visa restriction policy for Ugandan officials involved in undermining democracy and repressing marginalized groups in Uganda. It also unveiled a new policy for officials in Zimbabwe. Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a statement saying that the US would refuse visas to current or former officials along with their family members in case they are found to be involved in "repressing members of marginalized or vulnerable populations" like the LGBT community. "Today, I am announcing the expansion of the visa restriction policy to include current or former Ugandan officials or others who are believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Uganda or for policies or actions aimed at repressing members of marginalized or vulnerable populations," Blinken said on Monday. "These groups include, but are not limited to, environmental activists, human rights defenders, journalists, LGBTQI+ persons, and civil society organizers," he said. "I once again strongly encourage the government of Uganda to make concerted efforts to uphold democracy and to respect and protect human rights so that we may sustain the decades-long partnership between our countries that has benefited Americans and Ugandans alike," he added. Also read: Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House Uganda's anti-LGBTQ law, which is considered one of the harshest in the world, carries the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality" in certain circumstances. Earlier, US President Joe Biden and the European Union and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have strongly denounced Uganda for imposing such a law against homosexuality. He then also introduced a new visa restriction policy for the ones responsible for undermining democracy in Zimbabwe. "Anyone who undermines the democratic process in Zimbabwe - including in the lead-up to, during, and following Zimbabwe's August 2023 elections - may be found ineligible for US visas under this policy," Blinken said. (With inputs from agencies)

US restricts visas for Uganda officials over harsh law against homosexuality

The White House officials on Monday (Dec 5) warned congressional leaders that halting the military aid to Kyiv would let Russian President Vladimir Putin "prevail" in Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

"Congress has to decide whether to continue to support the fight for freedom in Ukraine as part of the 50-nation coalition that President (Joe) Biden has built or... ignore the lessons we've learned from history and let Putin prevail," National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters at the White House.

"It is that simple. It is that stark a choice, and we hope that Congress on a bipartisan basis will make the right choice," he said.

US President Joe Biden's budget director, Shalanda Young, wrote a letter to Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson stating that if military assistance runs out, it would "kneecap" Ukraine's battle against Russia's invasion.

In October, Biden had asked for a massive $106 billion national security package, including military assistance for Ukraine and Israel's war against Palestinian militant group Hamas.

However, the grant has been embroiled in divisions on Capitol Hill.&nbsp;

"There is no magical pot of funding available to meet this moment. We are out of money -- and nearly out of time," wrote Young.&nbsp;

"I want to be clear: without congressional action, by the end of the year we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine," she added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-us-for-illegally-entering-waters-near-disputed-second-thomas-shoal-666058">China slams US for 'illegally' entering waters near Second Thomas Shoal</a>

"Cutting off the flow of US weapons and equipment will kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield, not only putting at risk the gains Ukraine has made but increasing the likelihood of Russian military victories."&nbsp;

<h2>'Biden administration failed to address concerns,' says Johnson</h2>

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Congress has so far approved more than $110 billion for Kyiv. However, after the Republicans took over the House from Democrats in January 2023, Congress has not approved any funds.

The House and Senate last approved $45 billion in military, financial and humanitarian aid for Ukraine as part of a broader annual spending bill passed in December 2022.

Speaker Johnson&nbsp;took to social media and said that the Biden administration "failed to substantively address" Republican concerns about Ukraine strategy.

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The Biden Administration has failed to substantively address any of my conference’s legitimate concerns about the lack of a clear strategy in Ukraine, a path to resolving the conflict, or a plan for adequately ensuring accountability for aid provided by American taxpayers.… <a href="https://t.co/nwthjRxqyP">https://t.co/nwthjRxqyP</a>
— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1731689607803146328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The Biden administration has failed to substantively address any of my conference's legitimate concerns about the lack of a clear strategy in Ukraine," Johnson said on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday.

"We believe both issues can be agreed upon if Senate Democrats and the White House will negotiate reasonably," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The White House officials on Monday (Dec 5) warned congressional leaders that halting the military aid to Kyiv would let Russian President Vladimir Putin "prevail" in Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

The White House officials on Monday (Dec 5) warned congressional leaders that halting the military aid to Kyiv would let Russian President Vladimir Putin "prevail" in Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. "Congress has to decide whether to continue to support the fight for freedom in Ukraine as part of the 50-nation coalition that President (Joe) Biden has built or... ignore the lessons we've learned from history and let Putin prevail," National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters at the White House. "It is that simple. It is that stark a choice, and we hope that Congress on a bipartisan basis will make the right choice," he said. US President Joe Biden's budget director, Shalanda Young, wrote a letter to Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson stating that if military assistance runs out, it would "kneecap" Ukraine's battle against Russia's invasion. In October, Biden had asked for a massive $106 billion national security package, including military assistance for Ukraine and Israel's war against Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the grant has been embroiled in divisions on Capitol Hill. "There is no magical pot of funding available to meet this moment. We are out of money -- and nearly out of time," wrote Young. "I want to be clear: without congressional action, by the end of the year we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine," she added. Also read: China slams US for 'illegally' entering waters near Second Thomas Shoal "Cutting off the flow of US weapons and equipment will kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield, not only putting at risk the gains Ukraine has made but increasing the likelihood of Russian military victories." 'Biden administration failed to address concerns,' says Johnson Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Congress has so far approved more than $110 billion for Kyiv. However, after the Republicans took over the House from Democrats in January 2023, Congress has not approved any funds. The House and Senate last approved $45 billion in military, financial and humanitarian aid for Ukraine as part of a broader annual spending bill passed in December 2022. Speaker Johnson took to social media and said that the Biden administration "failed to substantively address" Republican concerns about Ukraine strategy. The Biden Administration has failed to substantively address any of my conference’s legitimate concerns about the lack of a clear strategy in Ukraine, a path to resolving the conflict, or a plan for adequately ensuring accountability for aid provided by American taxpayers.… https://t.co/nwthjRxqyP — Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) December 4, 2023 × "The Biden administration has failed to substantively address any of my conference's legitimate concerns about the lack of a clear strategy in Ukraine," Johnson said on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday. "We believe both issues can be agreed upon if Senate Democrats and the White House will negotiate reasonably," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House

According to an undisclosed draft of a new Pentagon report on the defense industry, the United States' defense sector is finding it difficult to respond quickly enough to maintain its lead over rivals like China in the high-tech arms race.

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The United States has returned four antiquities worth $1 million to Nepal, including a pair of gilt copper masks representing a Hindu deity, following anti-trafficking operations.

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US expanded its visa restriction policy for Uganda. This comes after Uganda authorities are accused of undermining democracy and oppressing marginalized groups.

US restricts visa for Uganda and Zimbabwe officials

The US-China ties have entered troubled waters again. In the latest, China has fired back at recent remarks by the US Commerce Secretary, Gina Raimondo.

China slams US for 'enemy' stance | China urges US to maintain positive perspective | WION

The researchers at NASA, while sidestepping the ban imposed by the United States, have been allowed to study the moon samples collected by China, in a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the space agencies of the two countries. The laws by the US have till now kept NASA and its counterpart the China National Space Administration (CNSA) at a distance, but now they have been allowed to work together, the South China Morning Post reported.

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US court blames Indian officials for plot to kill SFJ Chief Pannun | US official visits India | WION

A house in Arlington County in the US state of Virginia exploded as police were attempting to execute a search warrant, said the local authorities, on Monday (Dec 4), after receiving reports of someone firing a flare gun from inside a house.

Images and videos on social media show the moment the house burst into flames while police vehicles could be seen outside a brick house.&nbsp;

Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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Attempted search warrant turned into a house explosion in Arlington, Virginia. <a href="https://t.co/grb815LjJ1">pic.twitter.com/grb815LjJ1</a>
— Heidi Hatch KUTV (@tvheidihatch) <a href="https://twitter.com/tvheidihatch/status/1731860890322981014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Here is a video. <a href="https://t.co/4Gn3JEIZAy">pic.twitter.com/4Gn3JEIZAy</a>
— Mark Raymond (@markraymond) <a href="https://twitter.com/markraymond/status/1731853844605202838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know so far?</h2>

The local police were sent to the home around 4:45 pm (local time) after receiving reports of a man firing a flare gun from inside the house located on the 800 block of North Burlington Street.&nbsp;

“POLICE ACTIVITY: ACPD is in the 800 block of N. Burlington Street investigating a suspect who has discharged a flare gun from his residence. Expect continued police activity and avoid the area,” the&nbsp;Arlington Police Department had said, in a statement on X.&nbsp;

Around 8:30 pm (local time), officers obtained a search warrant and while trying to execute it, the suspect allegedly fired multiple rounds, according to local officials, before the house exploded.&nbsp;

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“The suspect inside the residence discharged several rounds,” said the Arlington County police spokesperson Ashley Savage. The suspect was not immediately identified but was inside the house when the explosion happened, the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

The fire was still being put off, as of 10:00 pm (local time). The condition of the suspect and other occupants of the house, if any, was not immediately known as fire officials said they were waiting for a utility company to arrive before they could enter what remained of the structure.&nbsp;

“At this point, we’re only aware of one individual who was inside the home,” said Savage.&nbsp;

Several officers around the house suffered minor injuries, but none required hospitalisation, according to American media reports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dna-of-mexicos-alien-corpses-matches-not-to-humans-but-to-unknown-species-analyst-665525">DNA of Mexico's 'alien' corpses matches not to humans but to unknown species: Analyst&nbsp;</a>

The cause of the explosion was not immediately known. Savage said it was also not clear if the rounds that were fired as officers approached were from the flare gun or some other weapon.&nbsp;

“I was in the back of my house, and I had been hearing prior to this, some sort of firecracker sorts of sounds, and then suddenly there’s a loud boom, and my entire house is shaking,” neighbour Ann-Elise Quinn told NBC4 Washington.&nbsp;

She added, “All the lights went off immediately.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A house in Arlington County in the US state of Virginia exploded as police were attempting to execute a search warrant, said the local authorities, on Monday (Dec 4), after receiving reports of someone firing a flare gun from inside a house.

A house in Arlington County in the US state of Virginia exploded as police were attempting to execute a search warrant, said the local authorities, on Monday (Dec 4), after receiving reports of someone firing a flare gun from inside a house. Images and videos on social media show the moment the house burst into flames while police vehicles could be seen outside a brick house. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. Attempted search warrant turned into a house explosion in Arlington, Virginia. pic.twitter.com/grb815LjJ1 — Heidi Hatch KUTV (@tvheidihatch) December 5, 2023 × Here is a video. pic.twitter.com/4Gn3JEIZAy — Mark Raymond (@markraymond) December 5, 2023 × What do we know so far? The local police were sent to the home around 4:45 pm (local time) after receiving reports of a man firing a flare gun from inside the house located on the 800 block of North Burlington Street. “POLICE ACTIVITY: ACPD is in the 800 block of N. Burlington Street investigating a suspect who has discharged a flare gun from his residence. Expect continued police activity and avoid the area,” the Arlington Police Department had said, in a statement on X. Around 8:30 pm (local time), officers obtained a search warrant and while trying to execute it, the suspect allegedly fired multiple rounds, according to local officials, before the house exploded. ALSO READ | 30-year-old YouTuber jailed for six months for staging plane crash to get likes “The suspect inside the residence discharged several rounds,” said the Arlington County police spokesperson Ashley Savage. The suspect was not immediately identified but was inside the house when the explosion happened, the spokesperson added. The fire was still being put off, as of 10:00 pm (local time). The condition of the suspect and other occupants of the house, if any, was not immediately known as fire officials said they were waiting for a utility company to arrive before they could enter what remained of the structure. “At this point, we’re only aware of one individual who was inside the home,” said Savage. Several officers around the house suffered minor injuries, but none required hospitalisation, according to American media reports. ALSO READ | DNA of Mexico's 'alien' corpses matches not to humans but to unknown species: Analyst The cause of the explosion was not immediately known. Savage said it was also not clear if the rounds that were fired as officers approached were from the flare gun or some other weapon. “I was in the back of my house, and I had been hearing prior to this, some sort of firecracker sorts of sounds, and then suddenly there’s a loud boom, and my entire house is shaking,” neighbour Ann-Elise Quinn told NBC4 Washington. She added, “All the lights went off immediately.” (With inputs from agencies)

Video: House explosion rocks Virginia neighbourhood after suspect fires flare gun

US Prison highlights gross negligence. The study has found mortality rate soared to 77% during COVID-19 pandemic. The study used data from 49 states and federal departments of correction.

Study exposes disproportionate impact of COVID-19 crisisin US prisons

India and US are considering plans to team up and deliver development projects in the Pacific Island. This comes after island became a strategic location for both US and China.

India and US planning development projects in Pacific Island, as per reports

Muslim leaders from several swing states on Saturday descended on Dearborn, Michigan, to launch a national campaign against the reelection of President Joe Biden — a response to his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Organizers from Michigan, Minnesota, Arizona, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and Pennsylvania are calling the campaign #AbandonBiden, vowing to ensure that Biden is a one-term president.

Swing state Muslims vows to ditch Biden in 2024 over his stance on Israel-Hamas War

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