A police officer in the US state of Florida is being praised for helping a mother deliver her child in the front seat of her car on the side of a highway.&nbsp;

Deputy Daniel 'Red' Jones of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was contacted by a panicked driver on Highway 60 in Plant City on Sunday, according to police.

When the husband informed Jones that his heavily pregnant wife was about to deliver the baby, their sixth, Jones acted immediately, dialling the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and rushing to her side, as reported by the New York Post.

Body cam footage&nbsp;captures the tension as Jones comforts and encourages the woman while asking&nbsp;her to hold, in an effort to delay the delivery.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE:

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“She’s ready go, huh, she’s ready to go!” he says. “Breathe through, mama, breathe through. Has your water broke?”

“Yes,” she replies.

“You have to let me know if the baby’s coming, OK? Is this your first baby,” he asks the mother, holding her hand.

She says, "This is the sixth!"

“Six! Woo! The astonished officer shouts, "Y'all need a better hobby!" which makes the rest of the group laugh.&nbsp;

“Keep breathing, okay? I’m not gonna move you,” he says. “I know it hurts but you’ve been through this before.”

Jones tells her not to move while she cries out in pain because "if I change the position on her, the baby's gonna come."

Nature, however, didn't wait for anyone.

“Don’t push! Don’t push!” he pleads.

“She’s pushing,” the mom says. “She’s coming!”

Later, an ecstatic Jones is shown holding the baby.&nbsp;

“I told you I didn’t want to deliver a baby!” he shouts in glee as the newborn cries. “Ooooh, pretty little girl! That’s a beautiful sound, Mama!”

Later, first responders took the mother and child to a nearby hospital.&nbsp;Jones received praise from sheriff Chad Chronister for his quick action.

“I am extremely proud of Master Deputy Jones’s quick actions and dedication to serving our community in any capacity,” Chronister said in a statement.

“This is his third time assisting a citizen with delivering a baby! While delivering in the front seat of a car was not the original birth plan, Master Deputy Jones reassured the mother of six that she was in good hands,” he said.

“I want to thank the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Department for having amazing officers that helped us to deliver our baby girl at Highway 60,” the newborn's father said.&nbsp; 
 
 
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A police officer in the US state of Florida is being praised for helping a mother deliver her child in the front seat of her car on the side of a highway. Deputy Daniel 'Red' Jones of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was contacted by a panicked driver on Highway 60 in Plant City on Sunday, according to police.

A police officer in the US state of Florida is being praised for helping a mother deliver her child in the front seat of her car on the side of a highway. Deputy Daniel 'Red' Jones of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was contacted by a panicked driver on Highway 60 in Plant City on Sunday, according to police. When the husband informed Jones that his heavily pregnant wife was about to deliver the baby, their sixth, Jones acted immediately, dialling the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and rushing to her side, as reported by the New York Post. Body cam footage captures the tension as Jones comforts and encourages the woman while asking her to hold, in an effort to delay the delivery. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE: × Video credits: SCHOSheriff/YouTube “She’s ready go, huh, she’s ready to go!” he says. “Breathe through, mama, breathe through. Has your water broke?” “Yes,” she replies. “You have to let me know if the baby’s coming, OK? Is this your first baby,” he asks the mother, holding her hand. She says, "This is the sixth!" “Six! Woo! The astonished officer shouts, "Y'all need a better hobby!" which makes the rest of the group laugh. “Keep breathing, okay? I’m not gonna move you,” he says. “I know it hurts but you’ve been through this before.” Jones tells her not to move while she cries out in pain because "if I change the position on her, the baby's gonna come." Nature, however, didn't wait for anyone. “Don’t push! Don’t push!” he pleads. “She’s pushing,” the mom says. “She’s coming!” Later, an ecstatic Jones is shown holding the baby. “I told you I didn’t want to deliver a baby!” he shouts in glee as the newborn cries. “Ooooh, pretty little girl! That’s a beautiful sound, Mama!” Later, first responders took the mother and child to a nearby hospital. Jones received praise from sheriff Chad Chronister for his quick action. “I am extremely proud of Master Deputy Jones’s quick actions and dedication to serving our community in any capacity,” Chronister said in a statement. “This is his third time assisting a citizen with delivering a baby! While delivering in the front seat of a car was not the original birth plan, Master Deputy Jones reassured the mother of six that she was in good hands,” he said. “I want to thank the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Department for having amazing officers that helped us to deliver our baby girl at Highway 60,” the newborn's father said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Viral moment: 'She's ready to go!' - Watch Florida cop help deliver baby on highway

The United States Federal Trade Commission condemned tech giant Meta for misleading parents about protection for children and not putting proper parental controls in place.

The top US data privacy regulator also said that Meta should be banned from making money from minors' data, proposing to tighten an existing agreement on privacy.

The FTC highlighted that Facebook deluded parents about how much control they had over who their kids are in contact with on the Messenger Kids app and was also deceitful about the access the developers of the application had to the private data of users.

The proposed changes by Federal Trade Commission include banning Facebook for making money from the data collected from users under the age of 18 and would also face expanded limitations on using facial recognition technology.

<h2>Meta calls FTC action a 'political stunt'</h2>

Tech giant Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, called the action by FTC a "political stunt"&nbsp;adding that the regulator failed to act against "Chinese companies, like TikTok".

"We will vigorously fight this action and expect to prevail," the company said.

The company mostly relies on digital target-based ads for more than 98 per cent&nbsp;of its revenue and is currently battling the short-form video app TikTok for young users' attention.

Facebook will have a time period of 30 days to respond. The company can also appeal any commission decision at an appeals court.

"This is a very substantial statement from the FTC about whether or not Meta has fulfilled its duties to protect children," said Debra Williamson of Insider Intelligence, adding that "the revenue implications are not likely very large."

"Facebook has repeatedly violated its privacy promises," said Samuel Levine, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "The company’s recklessness has put young users at risk, and Facebook needs to answer for its failures."&nbsp;

<h2>FTC to target Artificial Intelligence that infringes civil rights&nbsp;</h2>

Last month, US Federal Trade Commission said that the agency would pursue the organisations that misused artificial intelligence to infringe laws against discrimination.

In a congressional hearing, FTC Chair Lina Khan and Commissioners Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya were asked about concerns that recent innovation in artificial intelligence, which can be used to produce high-quality deep fakes, could be used to make more effective scams or otherwise violate laws.

Bedoya said companies using algorithms or artificial intelligence were not allowed to violate civil rights laws or break rules against unfair and deceptive acts.

"It's not okay to say that your algorithm is a black box" and you can't explain it, he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States Federal Trade Commission condemned tech giant Meta for misleading parents about protection for children and not putting proper parental controls in place.

The United States Federal Trade Commission condemned tech giant Meta for misleading parents about protection for children and not putting proper parental controls in place. The top US data privacy regulator also said that Meta should be banned from making money from minors' data, proposing to tighten an existing agreement on privacy. The FTC highlighted that Facebook deluded parents about how much control they had over who their kids are in contact with on the Messenger Kids app and was also deceitful about the access the developers of the application had to the private data of users. The proposed changes by Federal Trade Commission include banning Facebook for making money from the data collected from users under the age of 18 and would also face expanded limitations on using facial recognition technology. Meta calls FTC action a 'political stunt' Tech giant Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, called the action by FTC a "political stunt" adding that the regulator failed to act against "Chinese companies, like TikTok". "We will vigorously fight this action and expect to prevail," the company said. The company mostly relies on digital target-based ads for more than 98 per cent of its revenue and is currently battling the short-form video app TikTok for young users' attention. Facebook will have a time period of 30 days to respond. The company can also appeal any commission decision at an appeals court. "This is a very substantial statement from the FTC about whether or not Meta has fulfilled its duties to protect children," said Debra Williamson of Insider Intelligence, adding that "the revenue implications are not likely very large." "Facebook has repeatedly violated its privacy promises," said Samuel Levine, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "The company’s recklessness has put young users at risk, and Facebook needs to answer for its failures." FTC to target Artificial Intelligence that infringes civil rights Last month, US Federal Trade Commission said that the agency would pursue the organisations that misused artificial intelligence to infringe laws against discrimination. In a congressional hearing, FTC Chair Lina Khan and Commissioners Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya were asked about concerns that recent innovation in artificial intelligence, which can be used to produce high-quality deep fakes, could be used to make more effective scams or otherwise violate laws. Bedoya said companies using algorithms or artificial intelligence were not allowed to violate civil rights laws or break rules against unfair and deceptive acts. "It's not okay to say that your algorithm is a black box" and you can't explain it, he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

FTC proposes ban on Meta for making money off children's data

A fight between Republicans and Democrats over the debt limit ceiling could send the US economy into a recession even if the standoff doesn't actually trigger a debt default, analysts say.

Analysts: US debt limit standoff could lead to recession

At least one person has been killed and&nbsp;four&nbsp;others were injured after a shooting incident in the US state of Georgia's capital city of Atlanta, on Wednesday (May 3), said the&nbsp;Atlanta Police Department. The man&nbsp;accused of opening fire in the waiting room of a&nbsp;medical facility in Atlanta on Wednesday, killing a woman and wounding four others, was arrested in a neighbouring county after hours of&nbsp;manhunt, police said.&nbsp;

Atlanta police announced the arrest of suspect Deion Patterson, 24, at around 8 p.m., almost eight hours after the deadly shooting shortly after noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The police department had earlier issued a "shelter in place" alert and said they are investigating an active shooter in the Midtown Atlanta's&nbsp;Northside Hospital Medical, area of 1110 W Peachtree St NW.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;shelter-in-place order has since&nbsp;been lifted in Midtown Atlanta, said police officials. 
 
Police officers clustered outside the front entrance of the Northside Medical building&nbsp;while multiple helicopters hovered overhead. 
 
"Three have been transported to the hospital for treatment and a fourth has been pronounced deceased on scene," said local police officials, adding that they have not&nbsp;heard any additional shots. 
 
The police department had&nbsp;released images of the suspect and said, "Based&nbsp;on our preliminary investigation, these are photos believed to be of the active shooter."&nbsp; 
 
The suspect,&nbsp;later&nbsp;identified as&nbsp;Deion Patterson (24), was arrested after an hours-long manhunt, "The suspect is in custody,"&nbsp;said the APD, without giving any further details. 
 
According to an alert, he was&nbsp;described as&nbsp;a Black male wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt, black pants and brown shoes.&nbsp;

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BOLO - Suspect is still at large. <a href="https://t.co/M8GkXa8dmM">pic.twitter.com/M8GkXa8dmM</a>
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Images and videos of the site where the incident took place showed multiple&nbsp;police&nbsp;and other emergency vehicles. Based on the initial investigation, police have said that the shooting occurred&nbsp;after a man became enraged during a trip to the medical facility. 
 
According to&nbsp;Grady Memorial Hospital, among those injured, three were in critical condition and one was stable, reported CBS News.&nbsp;According to&nbsp;Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, there were five victims in total all of whom were women aged between 25 to 71. One woman, aged 39,&nbsp;died from her injuries. However, no other information was released about the victims.&nbsp; 
 
Atlanta&nbsp;Public Schools said several schools in the area would operate on external lockdown for the rest of the day "out of an abundance of caution." Meanwhile,&nbsp;Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said that he is in "close contact" with the APD and that those in the area should "shelter in place".&nbsp;

Police cordoned blocks of streets in Midtown, impeding the flow of traffic in the district. According to media reports, an&nbsp;hour after the gunfire, a SWAT team gathered near the High Art Museum, which is around one kilometre away from the shooting scene.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Northside Hospital&nbsp;also took to Twitter and said they are "cooperating with law enforcement" after the shooting and urged everyone to "shelter in place and follow instructions from law enforcement on the scene."&nbsp; 
 
Police detail the hours-long manhunt 
 
In a press conference following the hours-long manhunt, Atlanta Police Deputy Chief Charles Hampton said, the suspect&nbsp;went inside Northside Medical Midtown just before noon and&nbsp;shot the first victim not long after.&nbsp;Patterson&nbsp;allegedly used&nbsp;a handgun in the attack&nbsp;before fleeing the scene on foot and&nbsp;went to a nearby Shell station.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Subsequently, he reportedly took an unattended pickup truck and 20 minutes later cameras picked up the vehicle’s tag number and police were alerted, said Hampton. The police were alerted shortly after about the suspect being in&nbsp;Cobb County, just northwest of Atlanta.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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At least one person has been killed and four others were injured after a shooting incident in the US state of Georgia's capital city of Atlanta, on Wednesday (May 3), said the Atlanta Police Department.

At least one person has been killed and four others were injured after a shooting incident in the US state of Georgia's capital city of Atlanta, on Wednesday (May 3), said the Atlanta Police Department. The man accused of opening fire in the waiting room of a medical facility in Atlanta on Wednesday, killing a woman and wounding four others, was arrested in a neighbouring county after hours of manhunt, police said. Atlanta police announced the arrest of suspect Deion Patterson, 24, at around 8 p.m., almost eight hours after the deadly shooting shortly after noon. The police department had earlier issued a "shelter in place" alert and said they are investigating an active shooter in the Midtown Atlanta's Northside Hospital Medical, area of 1110 W Peachtree St NW. The shelter-in-place order has since been lifted in Midtown Atlanta, said police officials. Police officers clustered outside the front entrance of the Northside Medical building while multiple helicopters hovered overhead. "Three have been transported to the hospital for treatment and a fourth has been pronounced deceased on scene," said local police officials, adding that they have not heard any additional shots. The police department had released images of the suspect and said, "Based on our preliminary investigation, these are photos believed to be of the active shooter." The suspect, later identified as Deion Patterson (24), was arrested after an hours-long manhunt, "The suspect is in custody," said the APD, without giving any further details. According to an alert, he was described as a Black male wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt, black pants and brown shoes. BOLO - Suspect is still at large. pic.twitter.com/M8GkXa8dmM — Atlanta Police Department (@Atlanta_Police) May 3, 2023 × Images and videos of the site where the incident took place showed multiple police and other emergency vehicles. Based on the initial investigation, police have said that the shooting occurred after a man became enraged during a trip to the medical facility. According to Grady Memorial Hospital, among those injured, three were in critical condition and one was stable, reported CBS News. According to Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, there were five victims in total all of whom were women aged between 25 to 71. One woman, aged 39, died from her injuries. However, no other information was released about the victims. Atlanta Public Schools said several schools in the area would operate on external lockdown for the rest of the day "out of an abundance of caution." Meanwhile, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said that he is in "close contact" with the APD and that those in the area should "shelter in place". Police cordoned blocks of streets in Midtown, impeding the flow of traffic in the district. According to media reports, an hour after the gunfire, a SWAT team gathered near the High Art Museum, which is around one kilometre away from the shooting scene. Meanwhile, the Northside Hospital also took to Twitter and said they are "cooperating with law enforcement" after the shooting and urged everyone to "shelter in place and follow instructions from law enforcement on the scene." Police detail the hours-long manhunt In a press conference following the hours-long manhunt, Atlanta Police Deputy Chief Charles Hampton said, the suspect went inside Northside Medical Midtown just before noon and shot the first victim not long after. Patterson allegedly used a handgun in the attack before fleeing the scene on foot and went to a nearby Shell station. Subsequently, he reportedly took an unattended pickup truck and 20 minutes later cameras picked up the vehicle’s tag number and police were alerted, said Hampton. The police were alerted shortly after about the suspect being in Cobb County, just northwest of Atlanta. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: One killed, four injured in shooting at medical facility in Atlanta, suspect arrested

Authorities in the US state of Texas have arrested the wife of Francisco Oropesa, the man accused of fatally shooting five neighbours, said the local prosecutor, on Wednesday (May 3). This comes a day after Oropesa was arrested after a four-day-long manhunt which involved local, state and federal officials.&nbsp;

Oropesa’s arrest

The accused was arrested on Tuesday after he was found in a closet under some laundry in a home in Montgomery County and was taken into custody around 7:00 pm (local time), said the local sheriff’s office.&nbsp;

San Jacinto County Chief Deputy Tim Kean, in a news conference, on Wednesday said that the $5 million bond will be set for the suspected gunman when he appears later before a judge in a local jail where he is being held on five counts of murder.&nbsp;

Oropesa was apprehended in Cut and Shoot, Texas which is a few kilometres away from Cleveland, Texas, where the killings took place, as per media reports citing officials.&nbsp;

The shooting took place after neighbours had asked Oropesa to stop firing his rifle on Friday night when he stepped out of his house and shot rounds with an AR-15-style rifle, San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers said on Saturday.

The gunman shot Wilson Garcia, the father of the one-month-old’s wife, Sonia Argentina Guzman, before killing three other adults - Diana Velazquez Alvarado (21), Julisa Molina Rivera (31), Jose Jonathan Casarez (18) - and Garcia’s son, Daniel Enrique Laso-Guzman (8).

Oropesa’s wife arrested

The suspect’s wife, later identified as Divimara Nava, was arrested on Wednesday morning for allegedly helping him evade capture, authorities said. The 52-year-old was charged with “hindering the apprehension of a known felon,” said the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office in a statement.&nbsp;

Nava is being held on a $250,000 bond, as per media reports citing jail records, which also list her as “not married,” but sharing a home address with him. However, she has been identified as the wife of the suspect, Oropesa, by law enforcement.&nbsp;

The prosecutors, as per the Associated Press, said the suspect showered and slept at the house outside the city of Conroe on Tuesday while Divimara Lamar Nava got him doughnuts from a nearby store.&nbsp;

According to the prosecutor, she also acknowledged delivering a message from Oropesa to his cousins in the area asking them to help him get out of the country. However, his cousins refused.&nbsp;

The officials have also alleged that the suspect was planning to escape to Mexico and believe Lamar Nava was talking to investigators at the same time she was trying to help Oropesa, San Jacinto County District Attorney Todd Dillon said at a news conference.&nbsp;

The suspect’s supposed wife’s arrest came after she had initially told an FBI agent that she was not aware of Oropesa’s whereabouts and later said he showed up at the house about 1:30 am (local time), Tuesday, reported the AP.&nbsp;

The arrest also comes days after more details were revealed about Oropesa who was first removed by an immigration judge back in 2009. However, the suspect’s current immigration status remains unclear and it is also not known how long he was in the US since last deported.&nbsp;

In a statement, on Monday, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that it identified the suspect as a Mexican and confirmed that he was apprehended and deported several times.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Authorities in the US state of Texas have arrested the wife of Francisco Oropesa, the man accused of fatally shooting five neighbours, said the local prosecutor, on Wednesday (May 3).

Authorities in the US state of Texas have arrested the wife of Francisco Oropesa, the man accused of fatally shooting five neighbours, said the local prosecutor, on Wednesday (May 3). This comes a day after Oropesa was arrested after a four-day-long manhunt which involved local, state and federal officials. Oropesa’s arrest The accused was arrested on Tuesday after he was found in a closet under some laundry in a home in Montgomery County and was taken into custody around 7:00 pm (local time), said the local sheriff’s office. San Jacinto County Chief Deputy Tim Kean, in a news conference, on Wednesday said that the $5 million bond will be set for the suspected gunman when he appears later before a judge in a local jail where he is being held on five counts of murder. Oropesa was apprehended in Cut and Shoot, Texas which is a few kilometres away from Cleveland, Texas, where the killings took place, as per media reports citing officials. The shooting took place after neighbours had asked Oropesa to stop firing his rifle on Friday night when he stepped out of his house and shot rounds with an AR-15-style rifle, San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers said on Saturday. The gunman shot Wilson Garcia, the father of the one-month-old’s wife, Sonia Argentina Guzman, before killing three other adults - Diana Velazquez Alvarado (21), Julisa Molina Rivera (31), Jose Jonathan Casarez (18) - and Garcia’s son, Daniel Enrique Laso-Guzman (8). Oropesa’s wife arrested The suspect’s wife, later identified as Divimara Nava, was arrested on Wednesday morning for allegedly helping him evade capture, authorities said. The 52-year-old was charged with “hindering the apprehension of a known felon,” said the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office in a statement. Nava is being held on a $250,000 bond, as per media reports citing jail records, which also list her as “not married,” but sharing a home address with him. However, she has been identified as the wife of the suspect, Oropesa, by law enforcement. The prosecutors, as per the Associated Press, said the suspect showered and slept at the house outside the city of Conroe on Tuesday while Divimara Lamar Nava got him doughnuts from a nearby store. According to the prosecutor, she also acknowledged delivering a message from Oropesa to his cousins in the area asking them to help him get out of the country. However, his cousins refused. The officials have also alleged that the suspect was planning to escape to Mexico and believe Lamar Nava was talking to investigators at the same time she was trying to help Oropesa, San Jacinto County District Attorney Todd Dillon said at a news conference. The suspect’s supposed wife’s arrest came after she had initially told an FBI agent that she was not aware of Oropesa’s whereabouts and later said he showed up at the house about 1:30 am (local time), Tuesday, reported the AP. The arrest also comes days after more details were revealed about Oropesa who was first removed by an immigration judge back in 2009. However, the suspect’s current immigration status remains unclear and it is also not known how long he was in the US since last deported. In a statement, on Monday, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that it identified the suspect as a Mexican and confirmed that he was apprehended and deported several times. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Police arrest suspected Texas gunman’s wife for allegedly helping him evade arrest, escape to Mexico

In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes&nbsp;that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive. This comes after he claimed that his forces have seen heightened activity by Ukrainian troops along the front lines.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the death toll from Russian strikes on the country’s southern Kherson region has risen to 21 after authorities in Kyiv said Russian strikes hit both the city and nearby villages.&nbsp;

The Pentagon, on Wednesday, announced a $300 million military aid package to Ukraine as it prepares for the spring counter-offensive.&nbsp;

Wagner chief about Ukraine’s spring offensive

In the clip posted on social media, Prigozhin also said that the “active phase” of Ukraine's counteroffensive would begin in the coming days. “I believe the advance of the Ukrainian army has already begun...We are seeing the greatest possible activity both on the perimeter and within the front lines,” said the Wagner chief, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

He added, “I therefore believe that it has all already started. And I believe it will all enter an active phase in the very near future. It could be a matter of days.” This comes as the Ukrainian forces have long promised to launch a counteroffensive and start taking back territory in the east which Russia has occupied after it began its invasion in February 2022.&nbsp;

In a subsequent statement, Prigozhin said his forces have advanced some 700 feet in the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the most intense battles since the conflict began, reported Reuters. 
 
He also reiterated his complaint about the Russian government ignoring his pleas to increase supplies of shells and said, “We only have resources for a few days. They (ministry of defence)&nbsp;ignore all requests from Wagner.”&nbsp;

Zelensky about shelling in Kherson&nbsp;

Zelensky took to Telegram and said, “As of now, 21 people have been killed! 48 wounded!” Officials in the region also imposed a curfew in the main city of Kherson starting Friday. The Ukrainian president also said the strikes hit “a railway station and a crossing, a house, a hardware store, a grocery supermarket and a gas station.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
He also published images of bodies and wounded people on the floor of a supermarket and said “The world needs to see and know this.” According to Kherson prosecutors, who have since called these attacks “massive,” 12 people were killed in the city and others in nearby villages.&nbsp;

“On the morning of May 3, Russian troops began massive shelling of the city of Kherson and the region's settlements,” said the prosecutors, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

United States announces more aid for Ukraine

The United States, on Wednesday, announced that it is sending a new $300 million military aid package to Ukraine which will also include “additional ammunition” for the US-provided HIMARS.&nbsp;

Among other weapons, are “howitzers, artillery and mortar rounds, and anti-armour capabilities,” which the US says, “Ukraine is using to push back against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.” Notably, the US has now committed a little over $35 billion in military to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive.

In an audio message published on social media, Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia’s Wagner Group, on Wednesday (May 3), said he believes that Ukraine has “already begun” its counter-offensive. This comes after he claimed that his forces have seen heightened activity by Ukrainian troops along the front lines. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the death toll from Russian strikes on the country’s southern Kherson region has risen to 21 after authorities in Kyiv said Russian strikes hit both the city and nearby villages. The Pentagon, on Wednesday, announced a $300 million military aid package to Ukraine as it prepares for the spring counter-offensive. Wagner chief about Ukraine’s spring offensive In the clip posted on social media, Prigozhin also said that the “active phase” of Ukraine's counteroffensive would begin in the coming days. “I believe the advance of the Ukrainian army has already begun...We are seeing the greatest possible activity both on the perimeter and within the front lines,” said the Wagner chief, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “I therefore believe that it has all already started. And I believe it will all enter an active phase in the very near future. It could be a matter of days.” This comes as the Ukrainian forces have long promised to launch a counteroffensive and start taking back territory in the east which Russia has occupied after it began its invasion in February 2022. In a subsequent statement, Prigozhin said his forces have advanced some 700 feet in the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut which has witnessed some of the most intense battles since the conflict began, reported Reuters. He also reiterated his complaint about the Russian government ignoring his pleas to increase supplies of shells and said, “We only have resources for a few days. They (ministry of defence) ignore all requests from Wagner.” Zelensky about shelling in Kherson Zelensky took to Telegram and said, “As of now, 21 people have been killed! 48 wounded!” Officials in the region also imposed a curfew in the main city of Kherson starting Friday. The Ukrainian president also said the strikes hit “a railway station and a crossing, a house, a hardware store, a grocery supermarket and a gas station.” He also published images of bodies and wounded people on the floor of a supermarket and said “The world needs to see and know this.” According to Kherson prosecutors, who have since called these attacks “massive,” 12 people were killed in the city and others in nearby villages. “On the morning of May 3, Russian troops began massive shelling of the city of Kherson and the region's settlements,” said the prosecutors, as quoted by AFP. United States announces more aid for Ukraine The United States, on Wednesday, announced that it is sending a new $300 million military aid package to Ukraine which will also include “additional ammunition” for the US-provided HIMARS. Among other weapons, are “howitzers, artillery and mortar rounds, and anti-armour capabilities,” which the US says, “Ukraine is using to push back against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.” Notably, the US has now committed a little over $35 billion in military to Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Kherson shelling toll rises to 21

New York has become&nbsp;first state in the US to ban the use of natural gas and other fossil fuels in the majority of new buildings. This is an important win for climate activists, but it could encounter pushback from the fossil fuel industry.

Governor Kathy Hochul and Democratic lawmakers, who control the New York Senate and Assembly, passed the new $229 billion state budget containing the bill late on Tuesday night in response to rising pressure from environmentalists and climate-conscious voters, as reported by CNN.&nbsp;

The law effectively promotes the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies like heat pumps and induction stoves in new housing developments across the state by outlawing gas-powered stoves, furnaces, and propane heating. By 2026, all new buildings under seven floors must have all-electric heating and cooking, and for higher buildings by 2029.

There are exceptions to the state's budget's gas ban for certain large commercial and industrial buildings, including supermarkets, hospitals, Laundromats, and restaurants. However, the effect on new residential structures could be significant. According to a report from 2022, buildings are responsible for 32 per cent&nbsp;of New York State's greenhouse gas emissions.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-e-jean-carrolls-rape-claim-ridiculous-disgusting-story-in-video-testimony-at-trial-588675">Trump calls E. Jean Carroll’s rape claim ‘ridiculous, disgusting story’ in video testimony at trial</a>

Other cities have taken the lead even though New York is the first state to pass such a law. The first US city to pass a law prohibiting natural gas hookups in newly constructed buildings was Berkeley in 2019.

In a statement, Hochul spokesperson Katy Zielinski said the new budget “will protect our families and our residents, while putting New York on trajectory to a cleaner, healthier future.”

The state's new law was opposed by the natural gas industry, that claimed that it restricted consumer options.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Vice Media group on the brink of bankruptcy

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“Any push to ban natural gas would raise costs to consumers, jeopardize environmental progress and deny affordable energy to underserved populations,” American Gas Association president and CEO Karen Harbert said in a statement.

New York's budget deal&nbsp;pushes other climate change initiatives in addition to banning natural gas, such as creating publicly owned renewable energy projects that would generate green jobs and implementing a cap-and-invest programme that would require companies with a higher carbon footprint to buy permits to pollute. The funds raised by the cap-and-invest initiative would support programmes that lessen the effects of pollution&nbsp;responsible&nbsp;for global-warming.

&nbsp;

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New York has become first state in the US to ban the use of natural gas and other fossil fuels in the majority of new buildings. This is an important win for climate activists, but it could encounter pushback from the fossil fuel industry.

New York has become first state in the US to ban the use of natural gas and other fossil fuels in the majority of new buildings. This is an important win for climate activists, but it could encounter pushback from the fossil fuel industry. Governor Kathy Hochul and Democratic lawmakers, who control the New York Senate and Assembly, passed the new $229 billion state budget containing the bill late on Tuesday night in response to rising pressure from environmentalists and climate-conscious voters, as reported by CNN. The law effectively promotes the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies like heat pumps and induction stoves in new housing developments across the state by outlawing gas-powered stoves, furnaces, and propane heating. By 2026, all new buildings under seven floors must have all-electric heating and cooking, and for higher buildings by 2029. There are exceptions to the state's budget's gas ban for certain large commercial and industrial buildings, including supermarkets, hospitals, Laundromats, and restaurants. However, the effect on new residential structures could be significant. According to a report from 2022, buildings are responsible for 32 per cent of New York State's greenhouse gas emissions. ALSO READ | Trump calls E. Jean Carroll’s rape claim ‘ridiculous, disgusting story’ in video testimony at trial Other cities have taken the lead even though New York is the first state to pass such a law. The first US city to pass a law prohibiting natural gas hookups in newly constructed buildings was Berkeley in 2019. In a statement, Hochul spokesperson Katy Zielinski said the new budget “will protect our families and our residents, while putting New York on trajectory to a cleaner, healthier future.” The state's new law was opposed by the natural gas industry, that claimed that it restricted consumer options. ALSO WATCH | Vice Media group on the brink of bankruptcy “Any push to ban natural gas would raise costs to consumers, jeopardize environmental progress and deny affordable energy to underserved populations,” American Gas Association president and CEO Karen Harbert said in a statement. New York's budget deal pushes other climate change initiatives in addition to banning natural gas, such as creating publicly owned renewable energy projects that would generate green jobs and implementing a cap-and-invest programme that would require companies with a higher carbon footprint to buy permits to pollute. The funds raised by the cap-and-invest initiative would support programmes that lessen the effects of pollution responsible for global-warming. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New York becomes first US state to ban use of gas stoves, furnaces in new buildings

The world's first respiratory syncytial virus&nbsp;(RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, was approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday. This breakthrough in science took 60 years to materialise.&nbsp;

The single-dose shot, manufactured by the pharmaceutical giant GSK, has been&nbsp;developed to safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV, reported the New York Post.

“Our focus now is to ensure eligible older adults in the US can access the vaccine as quickly as possible and to progress regulatory review in other countries,” Tony Wood, the chief scientific officer at GSK,&nbsp;said in a <a href="https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/media/press-releases/us-fda-approves-gsk-s-arexvy-the-world-s-first-respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-vaccine-for-older-adults/">statement.</a>

RSV, which generally causes mild, cold-like symptoms, can make older people and young children very ill.

According to the Centers&nbsp;for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the highly contagious virus is blamed for more than 60,000 hospital admissions, 6,000 or more fatalities among Americans 65 and over, and 100 to 300 deaths of children under the age of five each year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-melanoma-worlds-smallest-skin-cancer-know-its-symptoms-treatment-and-how-it-was-detected-588463">The 'smallest detected skin cancer' turned out to be melanoma. Know its symptoms</a>

The CDC also predicts that up to 80,000 kids under the age of five be hospitalised every year as a result of RSV.

The FDA&nbsp;examined data from a clinical trial in which Arexvy was given to 12,500 people, while the same number received a placebo.&nbsp;It says immunisation decreased the likelihood of getting severe RSV-associated LRTD by 94 per cent&nbsp;and RSV-associated LRTD by 83 per cent.

The injection site soreness, exhaustion, muscular pain, headaches, and joint stiffness are the most often reported side-effects of the immunisation.

“With this vaccine, Americans over the age of 60, and particularly those with underlying health conditions like COPD, asthma or congestive heart failure, will have a vaccine to help protect against potentially serious outcomes from RSV,” Dr John Kennedy, the president of the American Medical Group Association, said a statement.

Ahead of the RSV season, which is expected to begin in the autumn, GSK promises to make the vaccination accessible to senior citizens.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mri-scans-and-ai-to-decode-what-we-think-this-study-has-answers-588137">MRI scans and AI to decode what we think? This study has answers</a>

Other RSV vaccines are also expected soon.

Researchers had anticipated that Pfizer's RSVpreF vaccine would receive FDA approval as the first RSV vaccine.

With the agency's approval, the shot — the first RSV vaccine for expectant mothers — might be given to pregnant women in their late second or third trimesters. This is expected to happen in August.

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The world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, was approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday. This breakthrough in science took 60 years to materialise.

The world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, was approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday. This breakthrough in science took 60 years to materialise. The single-dose shot, manufactured by the pharmaceutical giant GSK, has been developed to safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV, reported the New York Post. “Our focus now is to ensure eligible older adults in the US can access the vaccine as quickly as possible and to progress regulatory review in other countries,” Tony Wood, the chief scientific officer at GSK, said in a statement. RSV, which generally causes mild, cold-like symptoms, can make older people and young children very ill. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the highly contagious virus is blamed for more than 60,000 hospital admissions, 6,000 or more fatalities among Americans 65 and over, and 100 to 300 deaths of children under the age of five each year. ALSO READ | The 'smallest detected skin cancer' turned out to be melanoma. Know its symptoms The CDC also predicts that up to 80,000 kids under the age of five be hospitalised every year as a result of RSV. The FDA examined data from a clinical trial in which Arexvy was given to 12,500 people, while the same number received a placebo. It says immunisation decreased the likelihood of getting severe RSV-associated LRTD by 94 per cent and RSV-associated LRTD by 83 per cent. The injection site soreness, exhaustion, muscular pain, headaches, and joint stiffness are the most often reported side-effects of the immunisation. “With this vaccine, Americans over the age of 60, and particularly those with underlying health conditions like COPD, asthma or congestive heart failure, will have a vaccine to help protect against potentially serious outcomes from RSV,” Dr John Kennedy, the president of the American Medical Group Association, said a statement. Ahead of the RSV season, which is expected to begin in the autumn, GSK promises to make the vaccination accessible to senior citizens. ALSO READ | MRI scans and AI to decode what we think? This study has answers Other RSV vaccines are also expected soon. Researchers had anticipated that Pfizer's RSVpreF vaccine would receive FDA approval as the first RSV vaccine. With the agency's approval, the shot — the first RSV vaccine for expectant mothers — might be given to pregnant women in their late second or third trimesters. This is expected to happen in August. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Breakthrough! US approves world's first RSV vaccine: All you need to know

A New York judge dismissed Donald Trump's 2021 lawsuit in which he claimed that New York Times reporters had engaged in an "insidious plot" to obtain his tax records.&nbsp;

Additionally, the former president has been told to cover all legal costs and fees endured by the New York Times and its reporters. The lawsuit alleged that the newspaper tracked down Mary Trump, Trump's niece, and convinced her "to smuggle the records out of her attorney's office."

A decision has not yet been made on allegations made by Donald Trump against his niece.

In order to refute the former president's claims that he was a self-made millionaire by demonstrating that he inherited hundreds of millions of dollars, The Times' 2018 Pulitzer Prize-winning stories drew on information from Mary Trump, reported The Guardian.&nbsp;

Robert Reed, a justice of the New York Supreme Court, stated that Trump's assertions "fail as a matter of constitutional law," allowing for journalists to carry out lawful, standard news gathering. These actions, according to Reed, "are at the core of protected first amendment activity."

“The&nbsp;New York&nbsp;Times is pleased with the judge’s decision today. It is an important precedent reaffirming that the press is protected when it engages in routine newsgathering to obtain information of vital importance to the public,”&nbsp;Charlie Stadtlander, a spokesperson for the Times, told the Guardian.&nbsp;

“We will weigh our client’s options and continue to vigorously fight on his behalf,” Trump’s lawyer Alina Habba said in a statement.

The former president also sued CNN last year, alleging defamation and asking for $475 million in damages. The New York Times and the Washington Post were both sued by his reelection campaign in 2020 over opinion pieces that claimed he was involved in Russian election interference. &nbsp;Cases brought against each newspaper were dropped.

<h2>Rape accusation&nbsp;against Trump</h2>

E Jean Carroll, an advice columnist, testified before a New York jury&nbsp;that Donald Trump had sexually assaulted her,&nbsp;leaving her unable to be in a romantic relationship,&nbsp;and had later shattered her&nbsp;reputation&nbsp;by denying that the assault had taken place.

Carroll testified in her civil lawsuit&nbsp;seeking damages for abuse and defamation after Trump allegedly sexually assaulted her in a changing room at a New York department store&nbsp;in 1996. When Carroll made her charges public in a book, he accused her of lying.

&nbsp;

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A New York judge dismissed Donald Trump's 2021 lawsuit in which he claimed that New York Times reporters had engaged in an "insidious plot" to obtain his tax records.

A New York judge dismissed Donald Trump's 2021 lawsuit in which he claimed that New York Times reporters had engaged in an "insidious plot" to obtain his tax records. Additionally, the former president has been told to cover all legal costs and fees endured by the New York Times and its reporters. The lawsuit alleged that the newspaper tracked down Mary Trump, Trump's niece, and convinced her "to smuggle the records out of her attorney's office." A decision has not yet been made on allegations made by Donald Trump against his niece. In order to refute the former president's claims that he was a self-made millionaire by demonstrating that he inherited hundreds of millions of dollars, The Times' 2018 Pulitzer Prize-winning stories drew on information from Mary Trump, reported The Guardian. Robert Reed, a justice of the New York Supreme Court, stated that Trump's assertions "fail as a matter of constitutional law," allowing for journalists to carry out lawful, standard news gathering. These actions, according to Reed, "are at the core of protected first amendment activity." “The New York Times is pleased with the judge’s decision today. It is an important precedent reaffirming that the press is protected when it engages in routine newsgathering to obtain information of vital importance to the public,” Charlie Stadtlander, a spokesperson for the Times, told the Guardian. “We will weigh our client’s options and continue to vigorously fight on his behalf,” Trump’s lawyer Alina Habba said in a statement. The former president also sued CNN last year, alleging defamation and asking for $475 million in damages. The New York Times and the Washington Post were both sued by his reelection campaign in 2020 over opinion pieces that claimed he was involved in Russian election interference. Cases brought against each newspaper were dropped. Rape accusation against Trump E Jean Carroll, an advice columnist, testified before a New York jury that Donald Trump had sexually assaulted her, leaving her unable to be in a romantic relationship, and had later shattered her reputation by denying that the assault had taken place. Carroll testified in her civil lawsuit seeking damages for abuse and defamation after Trump allegedly sexually assaulted her in a changing room at a New York department store in 1996. When Carroll made her charges public in a book, he accused her of lying. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US judge dismisses Donald Trump’s lawsuit against New York Times, orders him to pay all legal fees

Taiwan's Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that the delivery of 66 advanced new F-16V jets from the United States has been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and the ministry was working to minimize the damage.

Taiwan awaiting delivery of 66 advanced new F-16V jets to counter China threat

The US Federal Reserve raised its interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point for a 10th&nbsp;consecutive time on Wednesday (May 3), while indicating a pause in further increases. This comes amid recent bank failures as well as Congress’ ongoing deadlock over the debt ceiling issue.&nbsp;

The central bank has been aggressively raising interest rates since March last year in a bid to control the US’ soaring inflation and pushed its benchmark overnight interest rate somewhere in the 5.00 per cent and 5.25 per cent range. In the statement, the Fed also said that it would “take into account” the impact of tighter monetary policy and “economic and financial developments” going forward.

During the press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that the central bank still views inflation as too high and that it remains concerned by high price pressures. However, it no longer “anticipates” further hikes and monitors the incoming data to make the decision if more hikes “may be appropriate.”

Therefore, Powell has said that it is too soon to say if the rate-hike cycle is over as the decisions made by officials are taking on a “meeting-by-meeting” basis, adding, “we are prepared to do more&nbsp;with rate rises if needed.”&nbsp;

The decision about the recent hike came after the policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) recent meeting and was in line with the expectations of analysts and traders.&nbsp;

Notably, the recent statement by the central bank marks a departure from the last rate announcement where policymakers had said that they expect “additional policy firming” to rein in inflation. This time around, the Fed’s ease of guidance suggests that the economy is somewhat beginning to cool.&nbsp;

“If you add up all the tightening that's going on through various channels, we feel like we're getting close or are maybe even there,” said Powell, as quoted by Reuters, about monetary policy. The Fed chair also pushed back on market expectations of rate cuts this year adding, “We on the committee have a view that inflation is going to come down not so quickly, it will take some time.”&nbsp;

It is worth noting that the Fed’s policy rate, this time around, is somewhat close to where it was on the eve of the 2008 financial crisis. The rate hikes have more than doubled mortgage rates, elevated the costs of auto loans, credit card borrowing and business loans and heightened the risk of a recession, reported The Associated Press.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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The US Federal Reserve raised its interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point for a 10th consecutive time on Wednesday (May 3), while indicating a pause in further increases.

The US Federal Reserve raised its interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point for a 10th consecutive time on Wednesday (May 3), while indicating a pause in further increases. This comes amid recent bank failures as well as Congress’ ongoing deadlock over the debt ceiling issue. The central bank has been aggressively raising interest rates since March last year in a bid to control the US’ soaring inflation and pushed its benchmark overnight interest rate somewhere in the 5.00 per cent and 5.25 per cent range. In the statement, the Fed also said that it would “take into account” the impact of tighter monetary policy and “economic and financial developments” going forward. During the press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that the central bank still views inflation as too high and that it remains concerned by high price pressures. However, it no longer “anticipates” further hikes and monitors the incoming data to make the decision if more hikes “may be appropriate.” Therefore, Powell has said that it is too soon to say if the rate-hike cycle is over as the decisions made by officials are taking on a “meeting-by-meeting” basis, adding, “we are prepared to do more with rate rises if needed.” The decision about the recent hike came after the policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) recent meeting and was in line with the expectations of analysts and traders. Notably, the recent statement by the central bank marks a departure from the last rate announcement where policymakers had said that they expect “additional policy firming” to rein in inflation. This time around, the Fed’s ease of guidance suggests that the economy is somewhat beginning to cool. “If you add up all the tightening that's going on through various channels, we feel like we're getting close or are maybe even there,” said Powell, as quoted by Reuters, about monetary policy. The Fed chair also pushed back on market expectations of rate cuts this year adding, “We on the committee have a view that inflation is going to come down not so quickly, it will take some time.” It is worth noting that the Fed’s policy rate, this time around, is somewhat close to where it was on the eve of the 2008 financial crisis. The rate hikes have more than doubled mortgage rates, elevated the costs of auto loans, credit card borrowing and business loans and heightened the risk of a recession, reported The Associated Press. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Federal Reserve announces quarter-point interest rate hike, signals potential pause

The American companies operating in China are facing heightened scrutiny from the Chinese authorities. The latest events include the questioning of employees at the management consultancy bain & company in Shanghai. The events coincide with an amendment to an already extensive counter-espionage law in China. The law widens the scope of the kind of materials and data the country deems relevant to the national security. The new law was revised last week and is set to take effect in July.

Investor jitters rise as China tightens screws on US firms

The US national debt has hit a new high of 28 trillion dollars caused by years of government spending exceeding the revenue. Watch this report to understand the impact of this on the world's largest economy. Will this crisis push the us economy further into recession and what do experts suggest on the matter?

Is US economy really rich? Or is it a facade?

U.S. Senate Democrats launched a renewed effort to stave off competition from China on Wednesday, planning legislation to boost the country's ability to face up to the Asian powerhouse on issues from technology to security and threats to Taiwan.

After passing a sweeping bill last year to boost competition with Beijing in semiconductors and other technology, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic committee leaders said they would write legislation they hoped to introduce in the next several months to limit the flow of technology to China, deter China from initiating a conflict with Taiwan and tighten rules to block U.S. capital from going to Chinese companies.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-leader-says-ukraine-counter-offensive-has-begun-death-toll-from-kherson-shelling-rises-to-21-588678">Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21</a>

Schumer said the bill - dubbed "China Competition 2.0" - would broaden last year's "Chips and Science" act.

"Today, we are announcing a new initiative, one that will build on this momentum and develop new and significant bipartisan legislation," Schumer told a press conference.

He said he hoped the bill would be bipartisan, and said Republicans in the Senate had been supportive of some of the ideas proposed for the package. The measure will need Republican support to become law, as Republicans control the House of Representatives.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-14-killed-25-injured-after-road-accident-in-egypt-588676">At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports</a>

The desire for a hard line on China is one of the few truly bipartisan sentiments in the perennially divided U.S. Congress, and last year's legislation passed with overwhelming support from both Democrats and Republicans.

However, John Thune, the Senate's No. 2 Republican, said the new China initiative would have a hard time getting through Congress, given his party's concerns about spending and the debt and the size of last year's bill.

"It would be challenging, and partly because of spending and debt - concerns about too much spending and the impact it's had on inflation, the way the deficits exploded and ballooned," Thune said.

A rare major foray into U.S. industrial policy, the bill signed into law by President Joe Biden last year authorized hundreds of billions of dollars to boost scientific research and subsidize domestic semiconductor manufacturers.

Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION

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This year's planned legislation would also seek funding for additional domestic investments in key technology areas and provide a better U.S. alternative to China's Belt and Road global infrastructure initiative, an effort to counter Beijing's international influence.

"We know that China uses its economic power like a bully," Democratic Senator Chris Coons told the news conference.

Schumer said lawmakers would look at TikTok and other foreign-based apps while writing the China bill. TikTok, which is owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance, has been a subject of intense scrutiny in Washington and other Western capitals.

TikTok has already been banned from government-issued phones in countries such as Canada and Australia over concerns about whether China can access user data or influence what people see. Some U.S. lawmakers have called for a nationwide ban.

Some of the ideas proposed for the new legislation were part of a broader China bill that was scaled back last year and eventually became the "Chips and Science" act.

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U.S. Senate Democrats launched a renewed effort to stave off competition from China on Wednesday, planning legislation to boost the country's ability to face up to the Asian powerhouse on issues from technology to security and threats to Taiwan.

U.S. Senate Democrats launched a renewed effort to stave off competition from China on Wednesday, planning legislation to boost the country's ability to face up to the Asian powerhouse on issues from technology to security and threats to Taiwan. After passing a sweeping bill last year to boost competition with Beijing in semiconductors and other technology, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic committee leaders said they would write legislation they hoped to introduce in the next several months to limit the flow of technology to China, deter China from initiating a conflict with Taiwan and tighten rules to block U.S. capital from going to Chinese companies. Also Read | Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21 Schumer said the bill - dubbed "China Competition 2.0" - would broaden last year's "Chips and Science" act. "Today, we are announcing a new initiative, one that will build on this momentum and develop new and significant bipartisan legislation," Schumer told a press conference. He said he hoped the bill would be bipartisan, and said Republicans in the Senate had been supportive of some of the ideas proposed for the package. The measure will need Republican support to become law, as Republicans control the House of Representatives. Also Read | At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports The desire for a hard line on China is one of the few truly bipartisan sentiments in the perennially divided U.S. Congress, and last year's legislation passed with overwhelming support from both Democrats and Republicans. However, John Thune, the Senate's No. 2 Republican, said the new China initiative would have a hard time getting through Congress, given his party's concerns about spending and the debt and the size of last year's bill. "It would be challenging, and partly because of spending and debt - concerns about too much spending and the impact it's had on inflation, the way the deficits exploded and ballooned," Thune said. A rare major foray into U.S. industrial policy, the bill signed into law by President Joe Biden last year authorized hundreds of billions of dollars to boost scientific research and subsidize domestic semiconductor manufacturers. Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION × This year's planned legislation would also seek funding for additional domestic investments in key technology areas and provide a better U.S. alternative to China's Belt and Road global infrastructure initiative, an effort to counter Beijing's international influence. "We know that China uses its economic power like a bully," Democratic Senator Chris Coons told the news conference. Schumer said lawmakers would look at TikTok and other foreign-based apps while writing the China bill. TikTok, which is owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance, has been a subject of intense scrutiny in Washington and other Western capitals. TikTok has already been banned from government-issued phones in countries such as Canada and Australia over concerns about whether China can access user data or influence what people see. Some U.S. lawmakers have called for a nationwide ban. Some of the ideas proposed for the new legislation were part of a broader China bill that was scaled back last year and eventually became the "Chips and Science" act. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Senate Democrats launch renewed effort to counter China

Shares of US-based bank pacwest bancorp tumbled 56% in extended trading. This happened following the news that the bank is weighing strategic options. The regional bank is assessing various options. Including a possible sale, and bringing in advisors to evaluate longer-term plans for the business. Piper Sandler and Stephens are the two firms advising pacwest.

Yet another US bank on the brink of collapse?

Tech war continues between US and China. The US Export controls on microchips which were imposed last year to slow down China's tech development appear to have minimal effect on China's tech sector. Experts say the US Challenge is to slow china's progress in high-tech without hurting US Companies.

US-China tech tensions continue

Oil prices fell 4% on Wednesday, extending steep losses from the previous session after the U.S. Federal Reserve raised interest rates and as investors fretted about the economy. Brent futures settled $2.99 lower, or 4%, to $72.33 a barrel, the global benchmark's lowest close since December 2021.

Oil falls 4%, extending losses after Fed rate hike

There are fresh tensions in the commercially vital Gulf waters, the US Navy says that Iran has seized an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, making it the second-such capture in the Gulf waters. The Panama-flagged oil tanker 'Naomi' was seized by Iran's Paramilitary.

Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION

An Island used by the late sex offender jeffrey epstein to sexually abuse young women is one of the two private islands bought by a billionaire investor. Reports say that Stephen deck off has bought two private islands in the U.S. Virgin islands for 60 million dollars. Watch this report to know more.

Private Islands owned by Jeffrey Epstein

At least six people died Monday after a dust storm caused visibility to plummet along a US highway, leading to crashes involving nearly 100 vehicles, police said.

Some 40-60 passenger vehicles, along with 30 commercial vehicles, crashed in the Midwestern state of Illinois "due to excessive winds blowing dirt from farm fields across the highway," the Illinois State Police said in a statement.

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At least 6 dead after dust storm causes crashes in Illinois

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The police added that dozens of people were wounded.

Two semi-trucks caught fire as a result of the late-morning crashes, which occurred along a two-mile stretch of Interstate 55, the statement said.

The highway is a major thoroughfare, connecting cities like Chicago and St. Louis.

Reuters quoted a police spokesperson as saying that crashes took place shortly after 11 am CT (1600 GMT)

More than 30 people were taken to the hospital with injuries ranging "from minor to life-threatening," police said. Victims ranged from ages two to 80.

Images published from the scene showed firefighters in the dusty, hazy aftermath, in some cases in near zero-visibility conditions as smoke -- and sometimes fires -- rose from vehicles, some of which had careened off the highway.

Eight people died in a similar accident in Utah in 2021 when a sandstorm caused a series of crashes ensnaring 22 vehicles.

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At least six people died Monday after a dust storm caused visibility to plummet along a US highway, leading to crashes involving nearly 100 vehicles, police said.

At least six people died Monday after a dust storm caused visibility to plummet along a US highway, leading to crashes involving nearly 100 vehicles, police said. Some 40-60 passenger vehicles, along with 30 commercial vehicles, crashed in the Midwestern state of Illinois "due to excessive winds blowing dirt from farm fields across the highway," the Illinois State Police said in a statement. Watch the video below At least 6 dead after dust storm causes crashes in Illinois × The police added that dozens of people were wounded. Two semi-trucks caught fire as a result of the late-morning crashes, which occurred along a two-mile stretch of Interstate 55, the statement said. The highway is a major thoroughfare, connecting cities like Chicago and St. Louis. Reuters quoted a police spokesperson as saying that crashes took place shortly after 11 am CT (1600 GMT) More than 30 people were taken to the hospital with injuries ranging "from minor to life-threatening," police said. Victims ranged from ages two to 80. Images published from the scene showed firefighters in the dusty, hazy aftermath, in some cases in near zero-visibility conditions as smoke -- and sometimes fires -- rose from vehicles, some of which had careened off the highway. Eight people died in a similar accident in Utah in 2021 when a sandstorm caused a series of crashes ensnaring 22 vehicles. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: How a dust storm vehicle pileup in US led to fires, leaving six dead

(Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.) 
 
A second woman has now accused former United States President Donald Trump of molesting her on a New York City-bound jet back in 1979, on Tuesday (May 2). This comes amid the ongoing trial where Trump has been accused of sexual assault by writer E. Jean Carroll. During the hearing, a friend of Carroll also backed up the writer’s account of her being raped by Trump&nbsp;in a Manhattan department store.

Woman testifies against Trump&nbsp;

A woman named Jessica Leeds, from Asheville, North Carolina told jurors at the civil trial of Carroll’s lawsuit that Trump allegedly grabbed her chest and ran his hand up her skirt as they sat side by side in first class. Leeds said&nbsp;she was in her late 30s travelling&nbsp;from Dallas or Atlanta to New York’s LaGuardia Airport when "all of a sudden Trump decided to kiss me and grope me."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-raped-me-former-magazine-columnist-e-jean-carrolls-chilling-testimony-586494">‘Donald Trump raped me': Former magazine columnist E. Jean Carroll's chilling testimony</a> 
 
"There was no conversation. It was like out of the blue. It was like a tussle,"&nbsp;said the 81-year-old, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;She added, “He was trying to kiss me, trying to pull me towards him. He was grabbing my breasts. It was like he had 40 zillion hands. It was like a tussling match between the two of us.”

Leeds said that after a few seconds, she wriggled free of Trump, and told him, “I don’t need this” before storming to the back of the plane, as per media reports.&nbsp;

This comes as another woman, who too was victimised, is expected to testify in the trial against the former president. Leeds was called to the witness stand by Carroll’s lawyers who are reportedly trying to prove that Trump has a history of assaulting women and that the writer’s case was not a one-off incident.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-writer-e-jean-carroll-testifies-in-her-lawsuit-against-donald-trump-586495">US writer E. Jean Carroll testifies in her lawsuit against Donald Trump</a>

However, this is not the first time that Leeds went public with her account of the alleged airplane assault. In an interview, the now 81-year-old spoke up about the incident during Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign after he claimed that he had never touched women against their will.&nbsp;

Carroll’s friend testifies

Trump’s lawyer said the former president has decided against testifying. Meanwhile, the former president has repeatedly denied the women’s claims and said that these allegations are politically motivated. 
 
The former magazine advice columnist who first publicly aired her allegations against Trump in 2019, has accused the former president of raping her at Bergdorf Goodman, a luxury department store based on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York. &nbsp; 
 
Carroll said after raping her, Trump defamed her when she spoke the truth. Carroll is suing Trump for battery and defamation in a civil trial. Carroll denied making up her claims to drive publicity for her memoir, “What Do We Need Men For? A Modest Proposal,” during the cross-examination, on Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-official-website-tries-to-discredit-rape-accuser-jean-carroll-claims-shes-a-sexual-harasser-587387">Trump’s official website tries to discredit rape accuser Jean Carroll, claims she’s a sexual harasser: Report</a>

Carroll’s friend, author Lisa Birnbach, told a jury in Manhattan federal court that she “vividly” remembers how one evening back in 1996, Carroll called her and said that Trump had just attacked her in a dressing room of the department store. Carroll told her Trump slammed her into the wall, pulled down her tights and “penetrated her with his penis.”

“I whispered, E. Jean, he raped you. You should go to the police,” Birnbach testified. According to the author, Carroll was emotional and hyperventilating on the phone. Birnbach testified that&nbsp;Carroll refused to go to the police and asked her to never tell anyone about the incident.

“Instead of wallowing, she puts on lipstick, dusts herself off and moves on,” said Birnbach, about why her Carroll&nbsp;stayed silent about the alleged assault for decades.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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(Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.) A second woman has now accused former United States President Donald Trump of molesting her on a New York City-bound jet back in 1979, on Tuesday (May 2).

(Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.) A second woman has now accused former United States President Donald Trump of molesting her on a New York City-bound jet back in 1979, on Tuesday (May 2). This comes amid the ongoing trial where Trump has been accused of sexual assault by writer E. Jean Carroll. During the hearing, a friend of Carroll also backed up the writer’s account of her being raped by Trump in a Manhattan department store. Woman testifies against Trump A woman named Jessica Leeds, from Asheville, North Carolina told jurors at the civil trial of Carroll’s lawsuit that Trump allegedly grabbed her chest and ran his hand up her skirt as they sat side by side in first class. Leeds said she was in her late 30s travelling from Dallas or Atlanta to New York’s LaGuardia Airport when "all of a sudden Trump decided to kiss me and grope me." ALSO READ | ‘Donald Trump raped me': Former magazine columnist E. Jean Carroll's chilling testimony "There was no conversation. It was like out of the blue. It was like a tussle," said the 81-year-old, as quoted by the Associated Press. She added, “He was trying to kiss me, trying to pull me towards him. He was grabbing my breasts. It was like he had 40 zillion hands. It was like a tussling match between the two of us.” Leeds said that after a few seconds, she wriggled free of Trump, and told him, “I don’t need this” before storming to the back of the plane, as per media reports. This comes as another woman, who too was victimised, is expected to testify in the trial against the former president. Leeds was called to the witness stand by Carroll’s lawyers who are reportedly trying to prove that Trump has a history of assaulting women and that the writer’s case was not a one-off incident. ALSO WATCH | US writer E. Jean Carroll testifies in her lawsuit against Donald Trump However, this is not the first time that Leeds went public with her account of the alleged airplane assault. In an interview, the now 81-year-old spoke up about the incident during Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign after he claimed that he had never touched women against their will. Carroll’s friend testifies Trump’s lawyer said the former president has decided against testifying. Meanwhile, the former president has repeatedly denied the women’s claims and said that these allegations are politically motivated. The former magazine advice columnist who first publicly aired her allegations against Trump in 2019, has accused the former president of raping her at Bergdorf Goodman, a luxury department store based on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York. Carroll said after raping her, Trump defamed her when she spoke the truth. Carroll is suing Trump for battery and defamation in a civil trial. Carroll denied making up her claims to drive publicity for her memoir, “What Do We Need Men For? A Modest Proposal,” during the cross-examination, on Monday. ALSO READ | Trump’s official website tries to discredit rape accuser Jean Carroll, claims she’s a sexual harasser: Report Carroll’s friend, author Lisa Birnbach, told a jury in Manhattan federal court that she “vividly” remembers how one evening back in 1996, Carroll called her and said that Trump had just attacked her in a dressing room of the department store. Carroll told her Trump slammed her into the wall, pulled down her tights and “penetrated her with his penis.” “I whispered, E. Jean, he raped you. You should go to the police,” Birnbach testified. According to the author, Carroll was emotional and hyperventilating on the phone. Birnbach testified that Carroll refused to go to the police and asked her to never tell anyone about the incident. “Instead of wallowing, she puts on lipstick, dusts herself off and moves on,” said Birnbach, about why her Carroll stayed silent about the alleged assault for decades. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Another woman accuses Trump of sexual assault; E. Jean Carroll’s friend testifies at trial

US authorities have arrested a man suspected to kill 5 of his neighbours in Texas on Friday. 38 year old Francisco Oropeza was arrested on Tuesday, which was 4 days after the shooting.

Suspect in killing of 5 Texas neighbors caught after 4-day manhunt

The United States will breach the debt ceiling as early as on June 1st. This may result in a dead default. This could happen if the US Congress fails to raise the debt ceiling. The US treasury has warned it could run short of cash to pay its bills by the month of June.

US to breach debt ceiling in June : Treasury

International police have arrested 288 suspects as part of an international law enforcement operation, the announcement of which was made on Tuesday (May 2). The multi-continental crackdown,&nbsp;coordinated by Europol and involving nine countries, was carried out under&nbsp; Operation SpecTor, which also led to the seizure of $54.8 million in cash and virtual currency.&nbsp;

The operation was conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies across the United States, Europe, and South America. The Hague-based Europol in a statement said they have “seized the illegal dark web marketplace ‘Monopoly Market’,” adding that the arrests were made of people suspected of “buying or selling drugs on the dark web.” &nbsp;

It added that the officials also seized more than 800 kilogrammes of drugs which included, over 258 kilogrammes of amphetamines, 43 kilogrammes of cocaine, 43 kilogrammes of MDMA and over 10 kilogrammes of LSD and ecstasy pills.

Out of the 288 arrests, 153 defendants were arrested in the US, said United States Attorney General Merrick Garland, while addressing a press conference on Tuesday. “Our message to criminals on the dark web is this: You can try to hide in the furthest reaches of the internet, but the Justice Department will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes,” said Garland.&nbsp;

The US Justice Department had also indicated that several suspects have already been convicted or were being prosecuted following Operation SpecTor and described it as the “largest international operation against dark net trafficking of fentanyl and opioids”.

“A number of these suspects were considered high-value targets,” said Europol. The US marked the highest number of arrests made out of the nine countries involved&nbsp;and was followed by the United Kingdom which took 55 people into custody. The other arrests were made in Germany (52), the Netherlands (10), Austria (9), France (5), Switzerland (2), Poland (1) and Brazil (1).

“A number of investigations to identify additional individuals behind dark web accounts are still ongoing,” the European policing agency stated. Operation SpecTor was also deemed more successful when compared to the 2021 operation codenamed ‘DarkHunTor’ where 150 people were arrested, which was followed by ‘DisrupTor’ (2020) with 179 arrests.&nbsp;

Speaking about the operation, Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, said, “Our coalition of law enforcement authorities across three continents proves that we all do better when we work together.”&nbsp; 
 
She added, “This operation sends a strong message to criminals on the dark web: international law enforcement has the means and the ability to identify and hold you accountable for your illegal activities, even on the dark web.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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International police have arrested 288 suspects as part of an international law enforcement operation, the announcement of which was made on Tuesday (May 2). The multi-continental crackdown, coordinated by Europol and involving nine countries, was carried out under Operation SpecTor, which also led to the seizure of $54.

International police have arrested 288 suspects as part of an international law enforcement operation, the announcement of which was made on Tuesday (May 2). The multi-continental crackdown, coordinated by Europol and involving nine countries, was carried out under Operation SpecTor, which also led to the seizure of $54.8 million in cash and virtual currency. The operation was conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies across the United States, Europe, and South America. The Hague-based Europol in a statement said they have “seized the illegal dark web marketplace ‘Monopoly Market’,” adding that the arrests were made of people suspected of “buying or selling drugs on the dark web.” It added that the officials also seized more than 800 kilogrammes of drugs which included, over 258 kilogrammes of amphetamines, 43 kilogrammes of cocaine, 43 kilogrammes of MDMA and over 10 kilogrammes of LSD and ecstasy pills. Out of the 288 arrests, 153 defendants were arrested in the US, said United States Attorney General Merrick Garland, while addressing a press conference on Tuesday. “Our message to criminals on the dark web is this: You can try to hide in the furthest reaches of the internet, but the Justice Department will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes,” said Garland. The US Justice Department had also indicated that several suspects have already been convicted or were being prosecuted following Operation SpecTor and described it as the “largest international operation against dark net trafficking of fentanyl and opioids”. “A number of these suspects were considered high-value targets,” said Europol. The US marked the highest number of arrests made out of the nine countries involved and was followed by the United Kingdom which took 55 people into custody. The other arrests were made in Germany (52), the Netherlands (10), Austria (9), France (5), Switzerland (2), Poland (1) and Brazil (1). “A number of investigations to identify additional individuals behind dark web accounts are still ongoing,” the European policing agency stated. Operation SpecTor was also deemed more successful when compared to the 2021 operation codenamed ‘DarkHunTor’ where 150 people were arrested, which was followed by ‘DisrupTor’ (2020) with 179 arrests. Speaking about the operation, Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, said, “Our coalition of law enforcement authorities across three continents proves that we all do better when we work together.” She added, “This operation sends a strong message to criminals on the dark web: international law enforcement has the means and the ability to identify and hold you accountable for your illegal activities, even on the dark web.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US-Europe announce 288 arrests, seizures in crackdown on dark web drug trafficking

2016 Olympic and 2017 World Championship gold medalist Torie Bowie has tragically passed away. The former American sprint queen was just 32-years-old. Bowie's management committee broke the news earlier on Wednesday. Bowie was found dead in her home in Florida and no cause of death was reported as of now.

Former World Champion Tori Bowie passes away at 32

May 14th is the D-day in Turkey, it will mean a new President for the country. Early voting is already underway and it's looking like neck to neck as citizens gear up to choose their next leader. The Interior Minister in Turkey has made a damning claim saying that the West, particularly, the US is using the elections to stage a political coup in Turkey.

Turkey's Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu claims US' attempting political coup in Turkey

US President&nbsp;Joe Biden hosted Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House and reaffirmed US support for the security of the Philippines while stressing the "deep friendship" the two countries share, as worries about Chinese Navy harassment of Philippine vessels mount.&nbsp;

Biden spoke about the developments in the US-Philippine relationship during his Monday meeting with Marcos. This partnership has had its ups and downs through the years and was in a challenging situation when Marcos took office less than a year ago, reported The Guardian.&nbsp;

“We are facing new challenges and I couldn’t think of a better partner to have than you,” Biden told Marcos at the start of their Oval Office meeting.

“The United States also remains ironclad in our commitment to the defence of the Philippines, including in the&nbsp;South China Sea, and we will continue to support the Philippines' military modernisation goals," he added.

Marcos said the relationship was important&nbsp;as the Philippines and the Pacific face “possibly the most complicated geopolitical situation in the world right now. So, it is only natural for the Philippines to look to its sole treaty partner in the world to strengthen and redefine the relationship that we have and the roles that we play in the face of the&nbsp;rising tensions that we see now.”

Following the meeting, the White House announced the transfer to the Philippines of three C-130 planes and two coastal patrol ships. The two nations claimed to have adopted defence directives aimed at strengthening collaboration and interoperability between their militaries in all spheres of space, including cyberspace.

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President Biden met with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today to discuss efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Philippines alliance. 
 
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The Biden administration announced the start of a new trade mission to boost American investment in the Philippines' innovative economy, fresh educational initiatives, and more.

The US and the Philippines recently concluded their largest war drills ever, and Marcos' trip to Washington comes as the two air forces prepare to conduct their first joint fighter jet training in the Philippines since 1990. As Washington attempts to deter China's increasingly aggressive actions towards Taiwan and in the disputed South China Sea, the Philippines this year agreed to grant the US access to four more bases on the islands.

As this takes shape, China has infuriated the Philippines by repeatedly obstructing its navy and coast guard patrols and chasing away fishing boats in waters that are close to Philippine shores but that Beijing claims as its own.

The Oval Office meeting is the latest instance of Biden's high-level diplomacy with Pacific leaders as his government deals with China's growing economic and military aggression as well as concerns over North Korea's nuclear programme. The official visit by Marcos is the first by a Philippine president to Washington in over a decade.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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US President Joe Biden hosted Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House and reaffirmed US support for the security of the Philippines while stressing the "deep friendship" the two countries share, as worries about Chinese Navy harassment of Philippine vessels mount.

US President Joe Biden hosted Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House and reaffirmed US support for the security of the Philippines while stressing the "deep friendship" the two countries share, as worries about Chinese Navy harassment of Philippine vessels mount. Biden spoke about the developments in the US-Philippine relationship during his Monday meeting with Marcos. This partnership has had its ups and downs through the years and was in a challenging situation when Marcos took office less than a year ago, reported The Guardian. “We are facing new challenges and I couldn’t think of a better partner to have than you,” Biden told Marcos at the start of their Oval Office meeting. “The United States also remains ironclad in our commitment to the defence of the Philippines, including in the South China Sea, and we will continue to support the Philippines' military modernisation goals," he added. Marcos said the relationship was important as the Philippines and the Pacific face “possibly the most complicated geopolitical situation in the world right now. So, it is only natural for the Philippines to look to its sole treaty partner in the world to strengthen and redefine the relationship that we have and the roles that we play in the face of the rising tensions that we see now.” Following the meeting, the White House announced the transfer to the Philippines of three C-130 planes and two coastal patrol ships. The two nations claimed to have adopted defence directives aimed at strengthening collaboration and interoperability between their militaries in all spheres of space, including cyberspace. President Biden met with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today to discuss efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Philippines alliance. The leaders announced new opportunities to deepen economic cooperation, invest in the clean energy transition, and ensure respect for human rights. pic.twitter.com/QRmnr6Ybrz — The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 1, 2023 × The Biden administration announced the start of a new trade mission to boost American investment in the Philippines' innovative economy, fresh educational initiatives, and more. The US and the Philippines recently concluded their largest war drills ever, and Marcos' trip to Washington comes as the two air forces prepare to conduct their first joint fighter jet training in the Philippines since 1990. As Washington attempts to deter China's increasingly aggressive actions towards Taiwan and in the disputed South China Sea, the Philippines this year agreed to grant the US access to four more bases on the islands. As this takes shape, China has infuriated the Philippines by repeatedly obstructing its navy and coast guard patrols and chasing away fishing boats in waters that are close to Philippine shores but that Beijing claims as its own. The Oval Office meeting is the latest instance of Biden's high-level diplomacy with Pacific leaders as his government deals with China's growing economic and military aggression as well as concerns over North Korea's nuclear programme. The official visit by Marcos is the first by a Philippine president to Washington in over a decade. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Promise of ‘deep friendship’: US, Philippines recommit to boost military ties amid China’s aggression

Sudan's warring military factions agreed to a new and longer seven-day ceasefire from May 4, neighbour and mediator South Sudan said, even as more air strikes and shooting in the Khartoum capital region undercut their latest supposed truce.

Sudan's warring Generals extend theoretical truce but keep fighting

Zelensky says US Did not warn Ukraine about the top-secret documents leaked to internet chat rooms, before the news broke in the media last month. In an interview, the Ukrainian president told Washington post - we did not receive any information from the white house or pentagon beforehand. The embarrassing breach, which includes top secret documents, reportedly reveals US Unease over the viability of a counter-offensive by Kyiv's forces against Russian troops. Reports suggest the leaked papers also reveal concerns about Ukrainian air defences & point to US Spying on allies, including Israel & South Korea. The leaks also reportedly suggest US Spying on the un chief over Russia. The documents contained information on troop casualties & equipment losses; and details about NATO observation flights over the black sea.

Volodymyr Zelensky blasts US over handling of Ukraine document leaks

The&nbsp;man accused of fatally shooting five neighbours in&nbsp;a Texas home has been taken into custody after dayslong manhunt, the police said in a statement, on Tuesday (May 2). This comes after nearly four days of&nbsp;false alarms and few apparent leads. The 38-year-old suspect,&nbsp;Francisco Oropesa, was taken into custody around 7:00 pm (local time), said the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp; 
 
San Jacinto County District Attorney Todd Dillon told NBC news, Oropesa&nbsp;was&nbsp;apprehended in Cut and Shoot, Texas which is a few kilometres away from&nbsp;Cleveland, Texas, where the killings took place. The shooting took place after&nbsp;neighbours had&nbsp;asked Oropesa to stop firing his rifle on Friday night, when he stepped out of his house and shot rounds with an AR-15-style rifle, San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers said on Saturday. 
 
Initially,&nbsp;authorities&nbsp;were waiting for the&nbsp;fingerprints to confirm the person arrested is Oropesa. The suspect has now been&nbsp;taken to the Montgomery County Jail and is charged with first-degree murder said the district attorney.&nbsp;This comes after&nbsp;more than 250 law enforcement officials and a total of $80,000 in rewards, were&nbsp;involved in Oropesa’s manhunt, who had eluded Texas authorities after the shooting on Friday. 
 
Law enforcement had been&nbsp;using&nbsp;the suspect's&nbsp;cellphone&nbsp;to track him but said that the trail went cold&nbsp;Saturday evening.&nbsp; A statement by the&nbsp;Montgomery County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;also said that a&nbsp;press conference&nbsp;will be held by&nbsp;San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers and the FBI-Houston to give more details about Oropesa's arrest. 
 
The arrest also comes days after more details were revealed about&nbsp;Oropesa who was&nbsp;first removed by an immigration judge back in 2009.&nbsp;However, the suspect’s current immigration status remains unclear and it is also not known how long he was in the US since last deported.&nbsp; 
 
In a statement, on Monday, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),&nbsp;said that it identified the suspect as a Mexican and confirmed that he was apprehended and deported several times.&nbsp;Oropesa was also convicted of driving while intoxicated in January 2012 in Montgomery County, Texas and sentenced to jail, the department added.&nbsp; 
 
The&nbsp;gunman shot&nbsp;Wilson Garcia, the father of the one-month-old's wife, Sonia Argentina Guzman,&nbsp;before killing three other adults - Diana Velazquez Alvarado (21), Julisa Molina Rivera (31), Jose Jonathan Casarez (18) - and Garcia’s son, Daniel Enrique Laso-Guzman (8).

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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The man accused of fatally shooting five neighbours in a Texas home has been taken into custody after dayslong manhunt, the police said in a statement, on Tuesday (May 2).

The man accused of fatally shooting five neighbours in a Texas home has been taken into custody after dayslong manhunt, the police said in a statement, on Tuesday (May 2). This comes after nearly four days of false alarms and few apparent leads. The 38-year-old suspect, Francisco Oropesa, was taken into custody around 7:00 pm (local time), said the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office. San Jacinto County District Attorney Todd Dillon told NBC news, Oropesa was apprehended in Cut and Shoot, Texas which is a few kilometres away from Cleveland, Texas, where the killings took place. The shooting took place after neighbours had asked Oropesa to stop firing his rifle on Friday night, when he stepped out of his house and shot rounds with an AR-15-style rifle, San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers said on Saturday. Initially, authorities were waiting for the fingerprints to confirm the person arrested is Oropesa. The suspect has now been taken to the Montgomery County Jail and is charged with first-degree murder said the district attorney. This comes after more than 250 law enforcement officials and a total of $80,000 in rewards, were involved in Oropesa’s manhunt, who had eluded Texas authorities after the shooting on Friday. Law enforcement had been using the suspect's cellphone to track him but said that the trail went cold Saturday evening. A statement by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office also said that a press conference will be held by San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers and the FBI-Houston to give more details about Oropesa's arrest. The arrest also comes days after more details were revealed about Oropesa who was first removed by an immigration judge back in 2009. However, the suspect’s current immigration status remains unclear and it is also not known how long he was in the US since last deported. In a statement, on Monday, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that it identified the suspect as a Mexican and confirmed that he was apprehended and deported several times. Oropesa was also convicted of driving while intoxicated in January 2012 in Montgomery County, Texas and sentenced to jail, the department added. The gunman shot Wilson Garcia, the father of the one-month-old's wife, Sonia Argentina Guzman, before killing three other adults - Diana Velazquez Alvarado (21), Julisa Molina Rivera (31), Jose Jonathan Casarez (18) - and Garcia’s son, Daniel Enrique Laso-Guzman (8). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Man accused of killing five neighbours in Texas arrested after manhunt for days

President Joe Biden's administration will temporarily send 1,500 additional troops to help secure the U.S.-Mexico border, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, in preparation for a possible rise in illegal immigration when COVID-19 border restrictions lift later this month.

US to send 1,500 troops to Mexico border for migrant surge

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