In pics | US: California witnesses storm bringing heavy snowfall, record rainfall

Taiwan’s foreign ministry, on Saturday (February 25) said that the United States-led “Fab 4” or “Chip 4” semiconductor alliance held its first meeting of senior officials last week. The officials from four countries, Taiwan, the US, Japan and South Korea took part in the conversation which was centred around maintaining the resilience of the semiconductor supply chain. However, the ministry did not mention which officials were a part of the meeting.&nbsp;

The virtual meeting of senior officials from the “US-East Asia Semiconductor Supply Chain Resilience Working Group”, or “Fab 4” took place on February 16 after months of coordination, reported Reuters. The “Fab” in the name refers to a shorthand of an industry term for the fabrication plants where chips are made and used for virtually everything from fridges to fighter jets.

The countries members of this group in the Indo-Pacific region are home to some of the world’s largest contract chip makers, including&nbsp;Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd, South Korean memory chip giants Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, and SK Hynix, with Japan being the supplier of materials and equipment required to make the semiconductors.

The first meeting of the group was held in September last year after a two-year&nbsp;global chip crunch which had&nbsp;prompted car manufacturers to halt production and exposed the larger supply chain issues.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Taiwanese foreign ministry said, “The focus of the discussions of the participating quartet at the meeting was mainly on how to maintain the resilience of the semiconductor supply chain and explore the possible future cooperation directions of all parties.”&nbsp;

It added, “As an important member of the Indo-Pacific region, our country also plays a key role in the global semiconductor industry, and has deep economic and trade relations with countries in the region.” This comes as the four countries have moved to boost cooperation and collaboration after growing threats from China.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Taiwan’s foreign ministry, on Saturday (February 25) said that the United States-led “Fab 4” or “Chip 4” semiconductor alliance held its first meeting of senior officials last week.

Taiwan’s foreign ministry, on Saturday (February 25) said that the United States-led “Fab 4” or “Chip 4” semiconductor alliance held its first meeting of senior officials last week. The officials from four countries, Taiwan, the US, Japan and South Korea took part in the conversation which was centred around maintaining the resilience of the semiconductor supply chain. However, the ministry did not mention which officials were a part of the meeting. The virtual meeting of senior officials from the “US-East Asia Semiconductor Supply Chain Resilience Working Group”, or “Fab 4” took place on February 16 after months of coordination, reported Reuters. The “Fab” in the name refers to a shorthand of an industry term for the fabrication plants where chips are made and used for virtually everything from fridges to fighter jets. The countries members of this group in the Indo-Pacific region are home to some of the world’s largest contract chip makers, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd, South Korean memory chip giants Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, and SK Hynix, with Japan being the supplier of materials and equipment required to make the semiconductors. The first meeting of the group was held in September last year after a two-year global chip crunch which had prompted car manufacturers to halt production and exposed the larger supply chain issues. In a statement, the Taiwanese foreign ministry said, “The focus of the discussions of the participating quartet at the meeting was mainly on how to maintain the resilience of the semiconductor supply chain and explore the possible future cooperation directions of all parties.” It added, “As an important member of the Indo-Pacific region, our country also plays a key role in the global semiconductor industry, and has deep economic and trade relations with countries in the region.” This comes as the four countries have moved to boost cooperation and collaboration after growing threats from China. 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.

‘Fab 4’ chip group’s senior officials discussed supply chain resilience at first meeting: Taiwan

Despite the US and its allies continued ambitious efforts to bolster the Ukrainians, there are no signs of an endgame in the war. The Russia-Ukraine conflict seems destined to enter an even more complicated phase in the months ahead.

No signs of endgame in Russia-Ukraine war: Jets for Kyiv? No consensus among NATO allies

It is a public health crisis that kills hundreds of Americans a day. More than 100,000 Americans die each year from overdoses, mostly from opioids. Fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and now xylazine are the most abused drugs in the United States.

Has America lost the war on drugs?

A 'Zombie drug' is wreaking havoc in the United States. Why is it called the 'Zombie drug'? Why is it causing concern? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: What is the 'Zombie drug'?

India’s push to regulate cryptocurrencies gained support from both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the United States (US) on Saturday as finance chiefs of the bloc wrap up two-days of talks.&nbsp;

India has earlier said that t wants a collective global effort to deal with problems caused by cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, and the finance ministry said it had held a seminar for G20 member states to discuss how to come up with a common framework. &nbsp;

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen while talking to Reuters said, it was 'critical'&nbsp;to put in place a strong regulatory framework but added that the United States had not suggested any outright bans. &nbsp;

"We haven't suggested outright banning of crypto activities, but it is critical to put in place a strong regulatory framework," Yellen said. "We're working with other governments." &nbsp;

Earlier, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva,&nbsp;after co-chairing a meeting with Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, told reporters that banning crypto should be an option. &nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has for several years debated drafting a law to regulate or even ban cryptocurrencies but has not made a final decision. The Reserve Bank of India has said that cryptocurrencies should be banned as they are akin to a Ponzi scheme. &nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, the IMF laid out a nine-point action plan for how countries should treat crypto assets, with point number one a plea not to give cryptocurrencies legal tender status. 
 
Such efforts have become a priority for authorities, the fund said, after the collapse of a number of crypto exchanges and assets over the last couple of years, adding that doing nothing was now "untenable".

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/">wionews.com</a> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India’s push to regulate cryptocurrencies gained support from both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the United States (US) on Saturday as finance chiefs of the bloc wrap up two-days of talks.

India’s push to regulate cryptocurrencies gained support from both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the United States (US) on Saturday as finance chiefs of the bloc wrap up two-days of talks. India has earlier said that t wants a collective global effort to deal with problems caused by cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, and the finance ministry said it had held a seminar for G20 member states to discuss how to come up with a common framework. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen while talking to Reuters said, it was 'critical' to put in place a strong regulatory framework but added that the United States had not suggested any outright bans. "We haven't suggested outright banning of crypto activities, but it is critical to put in place a strong regulatory framework," Yellen said. "We're working with other governments." Earlier, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, after co-chairing a meeting with Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, told reporters that banning crypto should be an option. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has for several years debated drafting a law to regulate or even ban cryptocurrencies but has not made a final decision. The Reserve Bank of India has said that cryptocurrencies should be banned as they are akin to a Ponzi scheme. Earlier on Thursday, the IMF laid out a nine-point action plan for how countries should treat crypto assets, with point number one a plea not to give cryptocurrencies legal tender status. Such efforts have become a priority for authorities, the fund said, after the collapse of a number of crypto exchanges and assets over the last couple of years, adding that doing nothing was now "untenable". (With inputs from agencies) 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

India’s push to regulate cryptocurrencies gets support from IMF, US at G20

For the first time in over three years, Florida has executed a prisoner this year, a US man convicted of a 1990 stabbing murder case.&nbsp;Donald Dillbeck was executed via lethal injection on Thursday evening, the Florida Department of Corrections said in a statement, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Dillbeck was&nbsp;in jail for the last 32 years on death row for murdering a woman by stabbing her during a carjacking attempt in a Tallahassee mall parking lot in 1990&nbsp;after escaping from the prison as he had killed&nbsp;a police officer when he was only 15, the local media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/florida-woman-killed-by-alligator-another-alligator-with-mouth-taped-shut-rescued-564121">Also read |&nbsp;Florida woman killed by alligator; another alligator with mouth taped shut rescued in Florida</a>

The US Supreme Court rejected his attorney's last-minute plea for a stay on Wednesday.

The execution was attended by the children of Faye Lam Vann, the woman killed by Dillbeck, and they thanked Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for approving the sentence. He signed off on Dillbeck's execution the same day&nbsp;as he proposed making capital punishment easier in his state by lowering the number of jury votes necessary to approve such a sentence, the Tallahassee Democrat newspaper reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-abortion-rights-florida-couple-awaits-babys-death-after-delivery-563564">Also read |&nbsp;No abortion rights! Hapless Florida couple to await baby's death after delivery</a>

During the final hearing, Dillbeck said, "I know I hurt people when I was young. I really messed up." He used his words to hit out DeSantis who is a potential 2024 presidential candidate. &nbsp;"But I know Ron DeSantis has done a lot worse. He's taken a lot from a lot of people."

Dillbeck till now is the seventh person to be executed in the United States so far this year, and the 100th person in Florida state since 1976 when the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

For the first time in over three years, Florida has executed a prisoner this year, a US man convicted of a 1990 stabbing murder case. Donald Dillbeck was executed via lethal injection on Thursday evening, the Florida Department of Corrections said in a statement, AFP reported.

For the first time in over three years, Florida has executed a prisoner this year, a US man convicted of a 1990 stabbing murder case. Donald Dillbeck was executed via lethal injection on Thursday evening, the Florida Department of Corrections said in a statement, AFP reported. Dillbeck was in jail for the last 32 years on death row for murdering a woman by stabbing her during a carjacking attempt in a Tallahassee mall parking lot in 1990 after escaping from the prison as he had killed a police officer when he was only 15, the local media reported. Also read | Florida woman killed by alligator; another alligator with mouth taped shut rescued in Florida The US Supreme Court rejected his attorney's last-minute plea for a stay on Wednesday. The execution was attended by the children of Faye Lam Vann, the woman killed by Dillbeck, and they thanked Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for approving the sentence. He signed off on Dillbeck's execution the same day as he proposed making capital punishment easier in his state by lowering the number of jury votes necessary to approve such a sentence, the Tallahassee Democrat newspaper reported. Also read | No abortion rights! Hapless Florida couple to await baby's death after delivery During the final hearing, Dillbeck said, "I know I hurt people when I was young. I really messed up." He used his words to hit out DeSantis who is a potential 2024 presidential candidate. "But I know Ron DeSantis has done a lot worse. He's taken a lot from a lot of people." Dillbeck till now is the seventh person to be executed in the United States so far this year, and the 100th person in Florida state since 1976 when the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: In over three years, Florida executes first prisoner for murder at a shopping mall in 1990

The United States is looking to expand the number of troops that help train Taiwanese forces, said Reuters quoting sources. This development has come just when US-China relations are strained.

Reuters reported in 2021 that a small number of US special operations forces have been rotating into Taiwan on a temporary basis to train their forces.

The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that the Pentagon was expected to increase that number in the coming months.

One of the officials said the exact number of increased troops was unclear, but the move was unrelated to recent tensions over the shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon which flew across the United States.

The balloon caused a political uproar in Washington and prompted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to cancel a trip to Beijing that both countries had hoped would steady their rocky relations.

"We don't have a comment on specific operations, engagements, or training, but I would highlight that our support for, and defense relationship with, Taiwan remains aligned against the current threat posed by the People's Republic of China," a Pentagon spokesman said.

Speaking to reporters in Taipei on Friday, Taiwan Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said he "didn't know" the source of the information about expanded training. He added Taiwan and the United States had a lot of military interaction, and declined further comment.

The news was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States is looking to expand the number of troops that help train Taiwanese forces, said Reuters quoting sources. This development has come just when US-China relations are strained.

The United States is looking to expand the number of troops that help train Taiwanese forces, said Reuters quoting sources. This development has come just when US-China relations are strained. Reuters reported in 2021 that a small number of US special operations forces have been rotating into Taiwan on a temporary basis to train their forces. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that the Pentagon was expected to increase that number in the coming months. One of the officials said the exact number of increased troops was unclear, but the move was unrelated to recent tensions over the shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon which flew across the United States. The balloon caused a political uproar in Washington and prompted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to cancel a trip to Beijing that both countries had hoped would steady their rocky relations. "We don't have a comment on specific operations, engagements, or training, but I would highlight that our support for, and defense relationship with, Taiwan remains aligned against the current threat posed by the People's Republic of China," a Pentagon spokesman said. Speaking to reporters in Taipei on Friday, Taiwan Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said he "didn't know" the source of the information about expanded training. He added Taiwan and the United States had a lot of military interaction, and declined further comment. The news was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. (With inputs from agencies)

US plans to expand military training to Taiwanese armed forces

The US announced a new set of sanctions on Moscow on Friday marking the one-year anniversary of the Ukraine war to impose further economic costs on Russia. In coordination with G7 partners and allies, the US Departments of the Treasury and State will implement sweeping sanctions against key revenue-generating sectors like defence&nbsp;and banks, besides blocking access to semiconductors.&nbsp;

As per a White House press release, the new sanctions&nbsp;will result in sanctions being imposed on over 200 individuals and entities, including both Russian and third-country actors across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East "that are supporting Russia’s war effort."

The White House said in a statement that it was joining with partners in the Group of Seven countries to impose new financial penalties designed to stop the funding of Moscow’s war machine.&nbsp;The&nbsp;measures will include sanctions on 200 people and companies, restricting exports to Russia and increasing tariffs on products from the country.

US President Joe Biden said in&nbsp;a tweet on Friday, “From Kherson to Kharkiv — Ukrainian fighters have reclaimed their land. And in more than half of the territory Russia held last year, the Ukrainian flag proudly waves once more.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-resorting-to-spammer-tactics-to-control-online-conversations-about-ukraine-war-says-meta-565431">Russia resorting to spammer tactics to control online conversations about Ukraine war, says Meta</a>

The target will be a dozen Russian financial institutions, as well as Russian officials and proxy authorities "illegitimately" operating in Ukraine.&nbsp;Sanctions were also announced on "additional actors tied to Russia’s defence and technology industry, including those responsible for backfilling Russian stocks of sanctioned items or enabling Russian sanctions evasion."

"It also includes the targeting of Russia’s future energy capabilities in a manner that does not impact current production to minimize market disruption. The United States also is expanding its sanctions authorities to Russia’s metals and mining sector, tailored to minimize market disruption," the press release added.&nbsp;

Moreover, to restrict exports to Russia, the US Department of Commerce will take several export control actions, listing nearly 90 Russian and third-country companies, including in China among other countries, for engaging in activities in support of Russia’s defence sector.&nbsp;

These listings will prohibit the targeted companies from purchasing items, such as semiconductors, whether made in the US or with certain US technology or software abroad. "Commerce will also take action alongside G7 partners and allies to align measures on industrial machinery, luxury goods, and other items, as well as issue new restrictions to prevent components found in Iranian drones from making their way onto the battlefield in Ukraine," the statement read.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-might-not-support-rishi-sunaks-northern-ireland-deal-565423">Boris Johnson might not support Rishi Sunak’s Northern Ireland deal</a>

Another sanction includes increasing tariffs on Russian products. This will raise tariffs on certain Russian products imported to the United States, building on previous efforts to strip Russia of its international trade privileges.&nbsp;

These measures, the White House said, are designed to target key Russian commodities generating revenue for the Kremlin while reducing US reliance on Russia.&nbsp;

"These measures are carefully calibrated to impose costs on Russia while minimising costs to US consumers. Today’s action will result in increased tariffs on more than 100 Russian metals, minerals, and chemical products worth approximately $2.8 billion to Russia."

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speed-news-un-general-assembly-votes-on-ukraine-peace-resolution-565525">WION Speed News: UN General Assembly votes on Ukraine peace resolution</a>

It will also significantly increase costs for the aluminium that was smelted or cast in Russia to enter the US market "in order to counter harm to the domestic aluminium industry, which is being squeezed by energy costs as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The US announced a new set of sanctions on Moscow on Friday marking the one-year anniversary of the Ukraine war to impose further economic costs on Russia. In coordination with G7 partners and allies, the US Departments of the Treasury and State will implement sweeping sanctions against key revenue-generating sectors like defence and banks, besides blocking access to semiconductors.

The US announced a new set of sanctions on Moscow on Friday marking the one-year anniversary of the Ukraine war to impose further economic costs on Russia. In coordination with G7 partners and allies, the US Departments of the Treasury and State will implement sweeping sanctions against key revenue-generating sectors like defence and banks, besides blocking access to semiconductors. As per a White House press release, the new sanctions will result in sanctions being imposed on over 200 individuals and entities, including both Russian and third-country actors across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East "that are supporting Russia’s war effort." The White House said in a statement that it was joining with partners in the Group of Seven countries to impose new financial penalties designed to stop the funding of Moscow’s war machine. The measures will include sanctions on 200 people and companies, restricting exports to Russia and increasing tariffs on products from the country. US President Joe Biden said in a tweet on Friday, “From Kherson to Kharkiv — Ukrainian fighters have reclaimed their land. And in more than half of the territory Russia held last year, the Ukrainian flag proudly waves once more.” Also Read | Russia resorting to spammer tactics to control online conversations about Ukraine war, says Meta The target will be a dozen Russian financial institutions, as well as Russian officials and proxy authorities "illegitimately" operating in Ukraine. Sanctions were also announced on "additional actors tied to Russia’s defence and technology industry, including those responsible for backfilling Russian stocks of sanctioned items or enabling Russian sanctions evasion." "It also includes the targeting of Russia’s future energy capabilities in a manner that does not impact current production to minimize market disruption. The United States also is expanding its sanctions authorities to Russia’s metals and mining sector, tailored to minimize market disruption," the press release added. Moreover, to restrict exports to Russia, the US Department of Commerce will take several export control actions, listing nearly 90 Russian and third-country companies, including in China among other countries, for engaging in activities in support of Russia’s defence sector. These listings will prohibit the targeted companies from purchasing items, such as semiconductors, whether made in the US or with certain US technology or software abroad. "Commerce will also take action alongside G7 partners and allies to align measures on industrial machinery, luxury goods, and other items, as well as issue new restrictions to prevent components found in Iranian drones from making their way onto the battlefield in Ukraine," the statement read. Also Read | Boris Johnson might not support Rishi Sunak’s Northern Ireland deal Another sanction includes increasing tariffs on Russian products. This will raise tariffs on certain Russian products imported to the United States, building on previous efforts to strip Russia of its international trade privileges. These measures, the White House said, are designed to target key Russian commodities generating revenue for the Kremlin while reducing US reliance on Russia. "These measures are carefully calibrated to impose costs on Russia while minimising costs to US consumers. Today’s action will result in increased tariffs on more than 100 Russian metals, minerals, and chemical products worth approximately $2.8 billion to Russia." Watch | WION Speed News: UN General Assembly votes on Ukraine peace resolution It will also significantly increase costs for the aluminium that was smelted or cast in Russia to enter the US market "in order to counter harm to the domestic aluminium industry, which is being squeezed by energy costs as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine." (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 announces new sanctions on Russian banks, defence sector, blocks semiconductor access

A Chinese professor has lost his job after he urged secondary school students to get admission at foreign universities so they could procreate with foreigners to produce "better elites", as per reports. Priyanka Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Chinese Professor loses job for glorifying the West

In the United States of America, California's poppy fields are blooming early this year in parts of the state. Erik Njoka tells you what authorities are doing to protect the flower bloom so that a repeat of 2019 disaster does not happen.

Protecting California's wild poppies

Extreme weather in the Southeastern United States is impacting the size of crawfish. Erik Njoka tells you how change in weather can impact their growth.

Extreme weather affects crawfish harvests

A new medicine, called Xylazine, or “tranq” has unleashed havoc in cities across the US by causing deadly symptoms including skin rotting.&nbsp;

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the nation licenced this "zombie drug" for use in veterinary medicine. It was also used to cut heroin, but most recently, it was found in fentanyl and other illegal substances, according to the New York Post.

An overdose of the non-opioid xylazine prevents a person from being able to react to naloxone, often known as Narcan, the most widely used overdose reversal medication, making it unsafe for humans.

Excessive tiredness, respiratory depression, and open sores are just a few of the effects of the drug that can get worse and spread quickly with repeated contact. If the ulcerations aren't treated, they could develop into eschar, which must be amputated.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Brooo, what’s happening in the USA🙆🏽‍♂️💀? <a href="https://t.co/hUJCjZ5Xlx">pic.twitter.com/hUJCjZ5Xlx</a>
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) <a href="https://twitter.com/dammiedammie35/status/1600039127310688256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Around 90 per cent of the lab-tested dope sample was found to include xylazine in Philadelphia in 2021, raising the danger of an overdose when coupled with other illegal narcotics. By acting as a "tranq," opioids like fentanyl's high may last longer, which is why xylazine is so appealing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-stem-cell-transplant-cures-another-hiv-patient-is-this-a-solution-to-the-hiv-crisis-565244">EXPLAINED | Stem cell transplant cures another HIV patient, is this a solution to the HIV crisis?</a>

Yet, some who struggle with substance abuse issues asserted that this new medicine has eliminated "any kind of joy" associated with using drugs.

“Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.”

The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

A new medicine, called Xylazine, or “tranq” has unleashed havoc in cities across the US by causing deadly symptoms including skin rotting. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the nation licenced this "zombie drug" for use in veterinary medicine.

A new medicine, called Xylazine, or “tranq” has unleashed havoc in cities across the US by causing deadly symptoms including skin rotting. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the nation licenced this "zombie drug" for use in veterinary medicine. It was also used to cut heroin, but most recently, it was found in fentanyl and other illegal substances, according to the New York Post. An overdose of the non-opioid xylazine prevents a person from being able to react to naloxone, often known as Narcan, the most widely used overdose reversal medication, making it unsafe for humans. Excessive tiredness, respiratory depression, and open sores are just a few of the effects of the drug that can get worse and spread quickly with repeated contact. If the ulcerations aren't treated, they could develop into eschar, which must be amputated. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Brooo, what’s happening in the USA🙆🏽‍♂️💀? pic.twitter.com/hUJCjZ5Xlx — Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) December 6, 2022 × Around 90 per cent of the lab-tested dope sample was found to include xylazine in Philadelphia in 2021, raising the danger of an overdose when coupled with other illegal narcotics. By acting as a "tranq," opioids like fentanyl's high may last longer, which is why xylazine is so appealing. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED | Stem cell transplant cures another HIV patient, is this a solution to the HIV crisis? Yet, some who struggle with substance abuse issues asserted that this new medicine has eliminated "any kind of joy" associated with using drugs. “Tranq is basically zombifying people’s bodies,” 28-year-old Sam told Sky News. “Until nine months ago, I never had wounds. Now, there are holes in my legs and feet.” The New York City Department of Health said that 2,668 individuals in New York died in 2021 as a result of xylazine overdoses, and experts worry that the medication might exacerbate the country's current drug pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What is Xylazine? How is the medicine turning people into zombies?

Ajay Banga, the former CEO of Mastercard was announced as the United States' choice for the position of president of the World Bank on Thursday (February 23).&nbsp;

Banga is "uniquely equipped to lead the World Bank at this critical moment in history", US President Joe Biden said in a statement, adding that he "has critical experience mobilising public-private resources to tackle the most urgent challenges of our time, including climate change."

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Banga’s experience "will help him achieve the World Bank's objectives of eliminating extreme poverty and expanding shared prosperity while pursuing the changes needed to effectively evolve the institution," which include meeting "ambitious goals for climate adaptation and emissions reduction".

<h2>Everything about Ajay Banga</h2>

- Banga is the first Indian-born nominee for the office of World Bank president. If chosen, he would replace David Malpass, a Trump administration appointee who said he would be leaving his position in June.

-&nbsp;Banga was raised in India before becoming a citizen of the United States. He was born in Pune, Maharashtra, a western Indian state, on November 10, 1959. His father, Lieutenant General Harbhajan Singh Banga, was in the Indian Army.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indian couple crowdfunds to save baby

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-couple-crowdfunds-to-save-baby-565260/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

- In addition to holding a variety of positions at Mastercard and on the boards of the American Red Cross, Kraft Foods, and Dow Inc., Banga, who is presently vice chairman at the private equity company General Atlantic, has more than 30 years of business expertise. In addition, he has worked with companies including Citigroup, Pepsi, and Nestle as per his LinkedIn profile.

-&nbsp;He served as CEO of Mastercard for 12 years before stepping down in December 2021. The company stated a goal to attract 1 billion individuals and 50 million micro and small companies during Banga's management, as reported by Moneycontrol.&nbsp;

- In his role as co-chair of the Partnership for Central America, a group of private sector organisations, Banga collaborated closely with US Vice President Kamala Harris to mobilise resources for Northern Central America from the governmental, corporate, and nonprofit sectors.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-student-visa-applications-to-open-365-days-before-start-of-academic-program-565171">US student visa applications to open 365 days before start of academic programme</a>

- Working closely with the US government, Banga has a lot of expertise. He was chosen by then-President Barack Obama to join the President's Advisory Council on Trade Policy and Negotiations in February 2015.

-&nbsp;In line with Biden's statements, Banga's candidature to lead the 189-nation organisation that fights poverty intends to put climate change front and centre. Banga is renowned for openly expressing his concern about the difficulty of addressing climate change. Under his leadership as CEO, Mastercard spearheaded the effort to form the Priceless Planet Coalition in 2020, a collection of around 100 businesses dedicated to making financial contributions to stop environmental degradation.

- Banga is a passionate supporter of closer connections between India and the US. In 2019, he asserted that the world needs a "mahagathbandhan" of the sort represented by the Indo-US strategic relationship, and that the "two greatest democracies" can contribute to this.

<h2>Indians leaving their mark in the US</h2>

The second member of the Indian-American&nbsp;community to enter the 2024 presidential bid&nbsp;after Nikki Haley is tech&nbsp;entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. He has pledged to "put merit back" and reduce dependency on China as he launches his 2024&nbsp;campaign.

During a live interview with Tucker Carlson, a conservative political commentator on Fox News' prime time programme, Ramaswamy, 37, who had parents who had immigrated to the United States from Kerala, made the declaration. He worked at a General Electric factory in Ohio.

Just last week, YouTube announced&nbsp;Neel Mohan as the new CEO.&nbsp;Susan Wojcicki, a former Google executive who stepped down from the role&nbsp;to concentrate on her family and personal endeavours, is replaced by Mohan.

Mohan, her deputy and the current Chief Product Officer of YouTube, will now take over as the CEO of the company.

<h2>What does the World Bank do?&nbsp;</h2>

The <a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2012/07/26/getting_to_know_theworldbank">World Bank</a> is an international development organisation owned by 187 countries.&nbsp;Its goal is to eradicate poverty by providing financial assistance to the governments of its less wealthy members in order to boost their economies and raise the standard of life for their people.&nbsp;

In terms of research facilities, the Bank is among the biggest in the world. It includes specialist divisions that counsel nations on issues pertaining to health, education, nutrition, finance, justice, law, and the environment.

The World Bank Institute, a different division of the bank, provides local research and educational facilities for local government and other official training.

It was founded in 1944 to aid in the post-World War II reconstruction of Europe and Japan. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development is what it was formally known as (IBRD). It had 38 members when it originally started functioning in 1946. The majority of the world's countries are currently members.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Ajay Banga, the former CEO of Mastercard was announced as the United States' choice for the position of president of the World Bank on Thursday (February 23). Banga is "uniquely equipped to lead the World Bank at this critical moment in history", US President Joe Biden said in a statement, adding that he "has critical experience mobilising public-private resources to tackle the most urgent challenges of our time, including climate change.

Ajay Banga, the former CEO of Mastercard was announced as the United States' choice for the position of president of the World Bank on Thursday (February 23). Banga is "uniquely equipped to lead the World Bank at this critical moment in history", US President Joe Biden said in a statement, adding that he "has critical experience mobilising public-private resources to tackle the most urgent challenges of our time, including climate change." Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Banga’s experience "will help him achieve the World Bank's objectives of eliminating extreme poverty and expanding shared prosperity while pursuing the changes needed to effectively evolve the institution," which include meeting "ambitious goals for climate adaptation and emissions reduction". Everything about Ajay Banga - Banga is the first Indian-born nominee for the office of World Bank president. If chosen, he would replace David Malpass, a Trump administration appointee who said he would be leaving his position in June. - Banga was raised in India before becoming a citizen of the United States. He was born in Pune, Maharashtra, a western Indian state, on November 10, 1959. His father, Lieutenant General Harbhajan Singh Banga, was in the Indian Army. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Indian couple crowdfunds to save baby - In addition to holding a variety of positions at Mastercard and on the boards of the American Red Cross, Kraft Foods, and Dow Inc., Banga, who is presently vice chairman at the private equity company General Atlantic, has more than 30 years of business expertise. In addition, he has worked with companies including Citigroup, Pepsi, and Nestle as per his LinkedIn profile. - He served as CEO of Mastercard for 12 years before stepping down in December 2021. The company stated a goal to attract 1 billion individuals and 50 million micro and small companies during Banga's management, as reported by Moneycontrol. - In his role as co-chair of the Partnership for Central America, a group of private sector organisations, Banga collaborated closely with US Vice President Kamala Harris to mobilise resources for Northern Central America from the governmental, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. ALSO READ | US student visa applications to open 365 days before start of academic programme - Working closely with the US government, Banga has a lot of expertise. He was chosen by then-President Barack Obama to join the President's Advisory Council on Trade Policy and Negotiations in February 2015. - In line with Biden's statements, Banga's candidature to lead the 189-nation organisation that fights poverty intends to put climate change front and centre. Banga is renowned for openly expressing his concern about the difficulty of addressing climate change. Under his leadership as CEO, Mastercard spearheaded the effort to form the Priceless Planet Coalition in 2020, a collection of around 100 businesses dedicated to making financial contributions to stop environmental degradation. - Banga is a passionate supporter of closer connections between India and the US. In 2019, he asserted that the world needs a "mahagathbandhan" of the sort represented by the Indo-US strategic relationship, and that the "two greatest democracies" can contribute to this. Indians leaving their mark in the US The second member of the Indian-American community to enter the 2024 presidential bid after Nikki Haley is tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. He has pledged to "put merit back" and reduce dependency on China as he launches his 2024 campaign. During a live interview with Tucker Carlson, a conservative political commentator on Fox News' prime time programme, Ramaswamy, 37, who had parents who had immigrated to the United States from Kerala, made the declaration. He worked at a General Electric factory in Ohio. Just last week, YouTube announced Neel Mohan as the new CEO. Susan Wojcicki, a former Google executive who stepped down from the role to concentrate on her family and personal endeavours, is replaced by Mohan. Mohan, her deputy and the current Chief Product Officer of YouTube, will now take over as the CEO of the company. What does the World Bank do? The World Bank is an international development organisation owned by 187 countries. Its goal is to eradicate poverty by providing financial assistance to the governments of its less wealthy members in order to boost their economies and raise the standard of life for their people. In terms of research facilities, the Bank is among the biggest in the world. It includes specialist divisions that counsel nations on issues pertaining to health, education, nutrition, finance, justice, law, and the environment. The World Bank Institute, a different division of the bank, provides local research and educational facilities for local government and other official training. It was founded in 1944 to aid in the post-World War II reconstruction of Europe and Japan. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development is what it was formally known as (IBRD). It had 38 members when it originally started functioning in 1946. The majority of the world's countries are currently members. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | Everything about Ajay Banga, Indian-American executive nominated to lead the World Bank

Major winter storm in Northern United States has left 3,500 flights grounded, multiple interstate highways closed. Chicago's airport and Denver international airport were among the major airports hit with delays and cancelations.

U.S. Blizzard: Winter storm in Northern America grounds 3,500 flights, roads & highways blocked

Billionaire Bill Gates is not a beer fan or even a big beer drinker, he has said earlier, but he found value in buying share of such companies. Bill Gates has now bought over 3.7% stake in the Dutch drinks giant, Heineken.

U.S.: Bill Gates buys 3.76% stake in Dutch drinks giant Heineken | World Business Watch

Housing rates in U.S. has posted $2.3 trillion drop, which is the biggest since 2008. According to the reports, home buyers who are already facing record high prices in the U.S. They took an additional hit from mortgage rates that doubled more than last year after peaking at $47.7 trillion in June.

U.S. Housing market drop biggest since 2008, mortgage rates soar | World Business Watch

After a U.S. court ruled that victims of 9/11 terror attacks cannot seize the $ 3.5 billion in in frozen funds belonging to the Afghanistan Central Bank, Taliban have demanded that Washington should return the assets to the company.

U.S. court ruling on frozen Afghan bank assets, Taliban demands U.S. to return them

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stepped up calls for increased economic support to Ukraine to help it battle the year-old Russian invasion.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calls for increased economic aid to Ukraine

A massive snowstorm wreaked havoc in U.S. Heartland. Up to 2 feet of snow & winds up to 60 miles an hour are expected.

Flights grounded as massive storm hits US heartland

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen ahead of the first G20 Finance Minister and Central Bank Governors meeting to be held in Bengaluru, starting Friday.

Nirmala Sitharaman meets U.S. Treasury Secretary Yellen ahead of Bengaluru G20 meet

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), there are more than 6,500 non-indigenous species in the country&nbsp;and one more has joined the list, “super pigs” from their neighbouring country Canada. Otherwise known as wild pigs, this invasive species had already been wreaking havoc in the North American region by eating crops, spreading diseases and even killing deers.&nbsp;

What are these so-called "super pigs"?

According to a report by the Guardian, these super pigs&nbsp;are a result of cross-breeding domestic pigs with wild boars and are said to be “incredibly intelligent, highly elusive” creatures. The crossbreed was created in Canada to help pigs withstand the country’s subzero temperatures.&nbsp;

In an interview with Field and Stream, Dr Ryan Brook, who leads the University of Saskatchewan’s Canadian Wild Pig Research Project, said this hybridisation in the 1980s resulted in bigger super pigs.&nbsp;

He added, the animals with larger bodies “survive the cold better and have better reproduction in those conditions.” According to Brook, in the 2000s after the market for farmed boars dropped many escaped their enclosures and now roam approximately 620,000 square miles in Canada.&nbsp;

They are “easily the worst invasive large mammal on the planet”, said Brook to the Guardian, in a separate interview. He added, “They’re incredibly intelligent. They’re highly elusive, and also when there’s any pressure on them, especially if people start hunting them, they become almost completely nocturnal”.&nbsp;

It was not until recently their population exploded in part due to their extraordinarily high reproductive rate. One of the pigs they found was said to weigh more than 300 kg, as per Brook. At the time, when these super pigs escaped their enclosures, experts thought they would not survive the Canadian winter and eventually freeze to death.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Got pigs? This is from SW Manitoba from a few days ago. Invasive wild pigs are doing extremely well with the relatively mild winter we've had so far. Some people are seeing fewer because the pigs aren't coming to feed and bait like they normally do when its -35C!. <a href="https://twitter.com/agbiousask?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@agbiousask</a> <a href="https://t.co/emtcqBnb0c">pic.twitter.com/emtcqBnb0c</a>
— Ryan Brook 🇨🇦 Chairman of the Boar 🐗🇨🇦 (@RyanKBrook) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanKBrook/status/1625594766984372243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, the cold was not a problem for them as they survived it by tunnelling the snow and using “their razor-sharp tusks” to cut down a plant called cattails and line the bottom of this cave as a “nice warm insulating layer,” said Brook to the Guardian. &nbsp;

The US has a swine problem

These super pigs that are poised to enter&nbsp;the US come at a time when the country is already dealing with a swine invasion of its own. This has cost the country close to $1.5 billion in damages with around six million of them in the US, as per government estimates, reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“The US has a 400-plus year history with invasive wild pigs, but we didn’t have any here until the early 1980s,” Brook told Field and Stream. According to the report, so far, the invasive species has largely proliferated in states like California and Texas but they have since started thriving in Canada and may soon spread to northern states like North Dakota, Montana, Michigan, and Minnesota.&nbsp;

“We see direct competition for our native species for food,” said Michael Marlow, the US Department of Agriculture official to the Guardian. He added that these pigs are “accomplished predators” with the male of the species having long tusks capable of hunting young fawns, turkeys and potentially quail.&nbsp;

Until a few decades ago, the pig’s existence was not an issue, said Marlow, but soon officials began noting an explosion in their population. He attributed this to the illegal smuggling of pigs by hunters who were “drugged and moved around, not always legally, and dropped in areas to allow the populations to develop”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Brook told Field and Stream there is a high chance the pigs have already entered the US. “We have documented pig occurrences less than 10 miles from the US border. Quite honestly, I think there have already been some in Manitoba going into North Dakota for the last five or six years”, said the Canadian researcher. He added, there is a “real risk of pigs moving south into the US”.&nbsp;

Why is this concerning?&nbsp;

These super pigs “feed on anything. They gobble up tons and tons of goslings and ducklings in the spring. They can take down a whitetail deer, even an adult,” said Brook, as per Field and Stream. Furthermore, they create a lot of environmental damage like eating crops grown by farmers, destroying trees, and even polluting water.&nbsp;

Pigs are also said to be capable carriers of viruses such as flu, which are transmittable to humans. Similarly, Marlow said that these pose “a human health and safety risk”. There is also a risk of a potential impact of a pig-borne disease like African swine fever. In 2018 and 2019, the disease reportedly killed more than 30 per cent of the 400 million pigs in China.&nbsp; 
 
Mitigating the issue

Marlow, who is also assistant program manager for the US agriculture department’s National Feral Swine Damage Management Program said, his team has managed to eradicate pigs in seven states over the past decade, as per the Guardian. However, there is little hope to get rid of the swine completely, he added.&nbsp;

Echoing a similar sentiment, Brook told Field and Stream that there are no definitive population estimates and it is too late to get rid of these super pigs in Canada. However, they are working to mitigate the issue and one of the most effective control strategies was ground-trapping sounders (a herd of wild swine). His team uses what he called the “Judas pig” method where one pig is captured and fitted with a GPS collar and released into the wild in hope that it would lead them to a sounder.&nbsp;

“The idea is that you go and find that collared animal, remove any pigs that are with it, and in ideal world then let it go again and it will just continue to find more and more pigs,” said Brook to the Guardian. Brook also said that hunting them is not effective so the most important thing people can do is to alert authorities, reported Field and Stream.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), there are more than 6,500 non-indigenous species in the country and one more has joined the list, “super pigs” from their neighbouring country Canada.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), there are more than 6,500 non-indigenous species in the country and one more has joined the list, “super pigs” from their neighbouring country Canada. Otherwise known as wild pigs, this invasive species had already been wreaking havoc in the North American region by eating crops, spreading diseases and even killing deers. What are these so-called "super pigs"? According to a report by the Guardian, these super pigs are a result of cross-breeding domestic pigs with wild boars and are said to be “incredibly intelligent, highly elusive” creatures. The crossbreed was created in Canada to help pigs withstand the country’s subzero temperatures. In an interview with Field and Stream, Dr Ryan Brook, who leads the University of Saskatchewan’s Canadian Wild Pig Research Project, said this hybridisation in the 1980s resulted in bigger super pigs. He added, the animals with larger bodies “survive the cold better and have better reproduction in those conditions.” According to Brook, in the 2000s after the market for farmed boars dropped many escaped their enclosures and now roam approximately 620,000 square miles in Canada. They are “easily the worst invasive large mammal on the planet”, said Brook to the Guardian, in a separate interview. He added, “They’re incredibly intelligent. They’re highly elusive, and also when there’s any pressure on them, especially if people start hunting them, they become almost completely nocturnal”. It was not until recently their population exploded in part due to their extraordinarily high reproductive rate. One of the pigs they found was said to weigh more than 300 kg, as per Brook. At the time, when these super pigs escaped their enclosures, experts thought they would not survive the Canadian winter and eventually freeze to death. Got pigs? This is from SW Manitoba from a few days ago. Invasive wild pigs are doing extremely well with the relatively mild winter we've had so far. Some people are seeing fewer because the pigs aren't coming to feed and bait like they normally do when its -35C!. @agbiousask pic.twitter.com/emtcqBnb0c — Ryan Brook 🇨🇦 Chairman of the Boar 🐗🇨🇦 (@RyanKBrook) February 14, 2023 × However, the cold was not a problem for them as they survived it by tunnelling the snow and using “their razor-sharp tusks” to cut down a plant called cattails and line the bottom of this cave as a “nice warm insulating layer,” said Brook to the Guardian. The US has a swine problem These super pigs that are poised to enter the US come at a time when the country is already dealing with a swine invasion of its own. This has cost the country close to $1.5 billion in damages with around six million of them in the US, as per government estimates, reported by the Guardian. “The US has a 400-plus year history with invasive wild pigs, but we didn’t have any here until the early 1980s,” Brook told Field and Stream. According to the report, so far, the invasive species has largely proliferated in states like California and Texas but they have since started thriving in Canada and may soon spread to northern states like North Dakota, Montana, Michigan, and Minnesota. “We see direct competition for our native species for food,” said Michael Marlow, the US Department of Agriculture official to the Guardian. He added that these pigs are “accomplished predators” with the male of the species having long tusks capable of hunting young fawns, turkeys and potentially quail. Until a few decades ago, the pig’s existence was not an issue, said Marlow, but soon officials began noting an explosion in their population. He attributed this to the illegal smuggling of pigs by hunters who were “drugged and moved around, not always legally, and dropped in areas to allow the populations to develop”. Meanwhile, Brook told Field and Stream there is a high chance the pigs have already entered the US. “We have documented pig occurrences less than 10 miles from the US border. Quite honestly, I think there have already been some in Manitoba going into North Dakota for the last five or six years”, said the Canadian researcher. He added, there is a “real risk of pigs moving south into the US”. Why is this concerning? These super pigs “feed on anything. They gobble up tons and tons of goslings and ducklings in the spring. They can take down a whitetail deer, even an adult,” said Brook, as per Field and Stream. Furthermore, they create a lot of environmental damage like eating crops grown by farmers, destroying trees, and even polluting water. Pigs are also said to be capable carriers of viruses such as flu, which are transmittable to humans. Similarly, Marlow said that these pose “a human health and safety risk”. There is also a risk of a potential impact of a pig-borne disease like African swine fever. In 2018 and 2019, the disease reportedly killed more than 30 per cent of the 400 million pigs in China. Mitigating the issue Marlow, who is also assistant program manager for the US agriculture department’s National Feral Swine Damage Management Program said, his team has managed to eradicate pigs in seven states over the past decade, as per the Guardian. However, there is little hope to get rid of the swine completely, he added. Echoing a similar sentiment, Brook told Field and Stream that there are no definitive population estimates and it is too late to get rid of these super pigs in Canada. However, they are working to mitigate the issue and one of the most effective control strategies was ground-trapping sounders (a herd of wild swine). His team uses what he called the “Judas pig” method where one pig is captured and fitted with a GPS collar and released into the wild in hope that it would lead them to a sounder. “The idea is that you go and find that collared animal, remove any pigs that are with it, and in ideal world then let it go again and it will just continue to find more and more pigs,” said Brook to the Guardian. Brook also said that hunting them is not effective so the most important thing people can do is to alert authorities, reported Field and Stream. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | US faces threat from invasive Canadian ‘super pigs’: All you need to know

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen discussed G20 aims while emphasising US sanctions aimed at weakening Russia's ability to fight the "unjust" war in Ukraine.

G20 Finance meet in India: U.S. Treasury Secy Janet Yellen addresses meet

Watch the video to know what's happening around the world.

WION Speed News: UN Chief denounces Russian invasion of Ukraine | US Capitol attack probe

It has been decades since the wild pigs have been affecting flora and fauna in the US. They gobble up crops, spread disease and even go on a killing spree of deer and elk. Now, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) has informed that other non-indigenous species of pigs have been spotted in the country. They are being called “super pigs” and are expected to come to the US from the neighbouring country Canada. They are also known as wild pigs and have invasive tendencies that cause significant damage to crops. &nbsp;The survey described these pigs as “incredibly intelligent, highly elusive beasts” who can even survive extremely cold climates by tunnelling under snow.&nbsp;

This sudden emergence of the so-called super pig is a result of cross-breeding domestic pigs with wild boars. This has now become a headache for the US which is already facing a swine invasion. &nbsp;Pigs are actually not native to the US but have brought havoc in recent decades to the country. The government estimates that the country’s approximately 6 million wild or feral pigs cause a loss of $ 1.5 billion every year.&nbsp;

Dr Ryan Brook, who leads the University of Saskatchewan’s Canadian Wild Pig Research Project, said that this hybridisation in the 1980s resulted in bigger super pigs, in an interview with Field and Stream.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/selfie-with-spy-balloon-us-pilot-captures-chinese-balloon-at-60000-feet-565011">Selfie with spy balloon! US pilot captures Chinese balloon at 60,000 feet</a>

Animals with larger bodies “survive the cold better and have better reproduction in those conditions", he explained adding, “They’re incredibly intelligent. They’re highly elusive, and also when there’s any pressure on them, especially if people start hunting them, they become almost completely nocturnal”.

In some parts of the US, this problem has grown to such levels that a whole hog hunting industry has been opened up. People are ready to pay thousands of dollars to mow down boar and sow with machine guns. This extreme impact of the pigs was first experienced in the US in the 16th century and has been very much negative since then.&nbsp;

“We see direct competition for our native species for food,” said Michael Marlow, assistant program manager for the Department of Agriculture’s national feral swine damage management program.

Watch |&nbsp;African swine fever threatens Hungarian Mangalica pig

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/african-swine-fever-threatens-hungarian-mangalica-pig-367887/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“However, pigs have also accomplished predators. They’ll opportunistically come upon a hidden animal, and the males have long tusks, so they’re very capable of running and grabbing one with their mouth. They’ll kill young fawns, they’re known to be nest predators, so they impact turkeys and potentially quail.”

These wild pigs are also responsible for a number of environmental damages, from eating innocent farmers’ crops to destroying trees and polluting water. They also put human health at high risk. &nbsp;A pig is a “mixing vessel” that is capable of carrying viruses, such as flu, which are transmittable to humans.&nbsp;

National Geographic reported that pigs have the potential to create a novel influenza virus which could spread to humankind. The first record of pigs in the continental US was reported in 1539 when the Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto landed in Florida with an entourage of 13 swine.&nbsp;

The number of pigs in the US has since grown to more than 6 million in some 34 states. The pigs weigh between 75 and 250 lbs on average but can weigh twice as large as that, according to USDA. &nbsp;

Marlow and his team had managed to eradicate pigs in seven states over the past decade, but with little realistic hope of getting rid of the swine completely, there are also fears over the potential impact of n=big-borne disease, particularly African swine fever.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-military-discovers-evidence-of-chinese-surveillance-in-the-arctic-564970">Canada's military discovers evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic</a>

China has more than 400 million pigs- which is half of the world’s pig population. In 2018 and 2019, African swine fever wiped out more than 30 per cent of the pig population. This African swine fever was also presented in Europe, but Marlow said it has not yet been detected in the Americas.&nbsp;

These wild pigs have escaped captivity and swiftly spread across Canada, with the super pig proving to be an incredibly proficient breeder, Brook said, while its giant size – one pig has been clocked at more than 300kg (661lbs) – makes it able to survive the frigid western Canada winters, where the wind chill can be -50C.

Scientists and researchers in the US and Canada have had some success with catching whole sounders of pigs in big traps, while in the US attempts have been made – sometimes unsuccessfully – at poisoning wild pigs.

One method that has worked in the US, Brook said, is the use of a “Judas pig”. A lone pig is captured and fitted with a GPS collar, then released into the wild, where hopefully it will join a group of unsuspecting swine.&nbsp;

“The idea is that you go and find that collared animal, remove any pigs that are with it, and in an ideal world then let it go again and it will just continue to find more and more pigs,” Brook said.

Brook said a variety of methods are required to tackle the big problem. But the efforts are more about managing the damage caused by these non-native mammals, rather than getting rid of the pigs completely. In Canada, that chance has gone.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

It has been decades since the wild pigs have been affecting flora and fauna in the US. They gobble up crops, spread disease and even go on a killing spree of deer and elk.

It has been decades since the wild pigs have been affecting flora and fauna in the US. They gobble up crops, spread disease and even go on a killing spree of deer and elk. Now, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) has informed that other non-indigenous species of pigs have been spotted in the country. They are being called “super pigs” and are expected to come to the US from the neighbouring country Canada. They are also known as wild pigs and have invasive tendencies that cause significant damage to crops. The survey described these pigs as “incredibly intelligent, highly elusive beasts” who can even survive extremely cold climates by tunnelling under snow. This sudden emergence of the so-called super pig is a result of cross-breeding domestic pigs with wild boars. This has now become a headache for the US which is already facing a swine invasion. Pigs are actually not native to the US but have brought havoc in recent decades to the country. The government estimates that the country’s approximately 6 million wild or feral pigs cause a loss of $ 1.5 billion every year. Dr Ryan Brook, who leads the University of Saskatchewan’s Canadian Wild Pig Research Project, said that this hybridisation in the 1980s resulted in bigger super pigs, in an interview with Field and Stream. Also Read | Selfie with spy balloon! US pilot captures Chinese balloon at 60,000 feet Animals with larger bodies “survive the cold better and have better reproduction in those conditions", he explained adding, “They’re incredibly intelligent. They’re highly elusive, and also when there’s any pressure on them, especially if people start hunting them, they become almost completely nocturnal”. In some parts of the US, this problem has grown to such levels that a whole hog hunting industry has been opened up. People are ready to pay thousands of dollars to mow down boar and sow with machine guns. This extreme impact of the pigs was first experienced in the US in the 16th century and has been very much negative since then. “We see direct competition for our native species for food,” said Michael Marlow, assistant program manager for the Department of Agriculture’s national feral swine damage management program. Watch | African swine fever threatens Hungarian Mangalica pig × “However, pigs have also accomplished predators. They’ll opportunistically come upon a hidden animal, and the males have long tusks, so they’re very capable of running and grabbing one with their mouth. They’ll kill young fawns, they’re known to be nest predators, so they impact turkeys and potentially quail.” These wild pigs are also responsible for a number of environmental damages, from eating innocent farmers’ crops to destroying trees and polluting water. They also put human health at high risk. A pig is a “mixing vessel” that is capable of carrying viruses, such as flu, which are transmittable to humans. National Geographic reported that pigs have the potential to create a novel influenza virus which could spread to humankind. The first record of pigs in the continental US was reported in 1539 when the Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto landed in Florida with an entourage of 13 swine. The number of pigs in the US has since grown to more than 6 million in some 34 states. The pigs weigh between 75 and 250 lbs on average but can weigh twice as large as that, according to USDA. Marlow and his team had managed to eradicate pigs in seven states over the past decade, but with little realistic hope of getting rid of the swine completely, there are also fears over the potential impact of n=big-borne disease, particularly African swine fever. Also Read | Canada's military discovers evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic China has more than 400 million pigs- which is half of the world’s pig population. In 2018 and 2019, African swine fever wiped out more than 30 per cent of the pig population. This African swine fever was also presented in Europe, but Marlow said it has not yet been detected in the Americas. These wild pigs have escaped captivity and swiftly spread across Canada, with the super pig proving to be an incredibly proficient breeder, Brook said, while its giant size – one pig has been clocked at more than 300kg (661lbs) – makes it able to survive the frigid western Canada winters, where the wind chill can be -50C. Scientists and researchers in the US and Canada have had some success with catching whole sounders of pigs in big traps, while in the US attempts have been made – sometimes unsuccessfully – at poisoning wild pigs. One method that has worked in the US, Brook said, is the use of a “Judas pig”. A lone pig is captured and fitted with a GPS collar, then released into the wild, where hopefully it will join a group of unsuspecting swine. “The idea is that you go and find that collared animal, remove any pigs that are with it, and in an ideal world then let it go again and it will just continue to find more and more pigs,” Brook said. Brook said a variety of methods are required to tackle the big problem. But the efforts are more about managing the damage caused by these non-native mammals, rather than getting rid of the pigs completely. In Canada, that chance has gone. (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.

How Canadian invasive 'super pigs' are threatening flora and fauna in the US? Know everything

U.S. President Joe Biden addresses the public from Warsaw during visit to Poland to mark the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine

U.S. President Joe Biden speaks from Warsaw

Thousands of flights were disrupted in and out of the United States as a strong winter storm is posing a threat of record-level snowfall in parts of the country. As per FlightAware, a flight-tracking website, over 1000 flights in and out of the US were cancelled by 09:15 am Eastern Time. Additionally, 932 flights were delayed.&nbsp;

Federal Aviation Administration tweeted on Tuesday that the weather conditions could cause flight delays in Minnesota and other states in the Great Lakes and southern plains.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
✈️ Traffic Report: ⛈️/🌬️ at <a href="https://twitter.com/DFWAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DFWAirport</a>. ☁️/🌬️/🌧️ could impact <a href="https://twitter.com/flySEA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flySEA</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/MCO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MCO</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/flyLAXairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyLAXairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/LASairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LASairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/flySFO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flySFO</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/PHXSkyHarbor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PHXSkyHarbor</a>. ❄️ at <a href="https://twitter.com/EWRairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EWRairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/JFKairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JFKairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/LGAairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LGAairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/fly2midway?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fly2midway</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/fly2ohare?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fly2ohare</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/mspairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mspairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/slcairport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@slcairport</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DENAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DENAirport</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/DTWeetin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DTWeetin</a>. <a href="https://t.co/cypJ0x7wnD">https://t.co/cypJ0x7wnD</a> <a href="https://t.co/C7EQMFNdHW">pic.twitter.com/C7EQMFNdHW</a>
— The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) <a href="https://twitter.com/FAANews/status/1628412035938545672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, National Weather Service gave a weather forecast over the next three days, through midday Friday.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-largest-four-day-work-week-trial-in-britain-proves-to-be-a-success-heres-how-564724">World's largest four-day work-week trial in Britain proves to be a success, here's how</a>

"Moderate, Major and Extreme winter weather impacts are expected from the West Coast to New England with travel not advised in the Upper Midwest due to blizzard conditions," it wrote earlier on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to media reports, SkyWest airlines was the worst hit by the severe winter storm as it cancelled 245 flights. Among others were Delta Air Lines, which cancelled 233 flights and Southwest Airlines (LUV), which cancelled 235 flights.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/toyota-accedes-to-unions-demands-set-to-provide-biggest-wage-hike-in-two-decades-564764">Toyota accedes to unions' demands, set to provide biggest wage hike in two decades</a>

Southwest airlines cancellations were primarily proactive as the country is bracing for severe weather conditions in the upcoming days. About 100 flights were cancelled from Denver International Airport. Earlier, during peak holiday season last year in December, Southwest Airlines ended up cancelling over 16,700 flights.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wagner-group-head-accuses-russian-command-of-treason-564716">Wagner group head accuses Russian command of treason</a>

With the imminent severe weather conditions now looming large in the United States once again, the airline is facing a challenge in carrying out its operations smoothly for the second time. Weather service gave out high wind warning in parts of the Dakotas and Minnesota. The service said wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph and the wind chills are expected to reach minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz cautioned everyone to stay safe saying that the state people are no strangers to extreme weather, but this storm "could break records."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Thousands of flights were disrupted in and out of the United States as a strong winter storm is posing a threat of record-level snowfall in parts of the country.

Thousands of flights were disrupted in and out of the United States as a strong winter storm is posing a threat of record-level snowfall in parts of the country. As per FlightAware, a flight-tracking website, over 1000 flights in and out of the US were cancelled by 09:15 am Eastern Time. Additionally, 932 flights were delayed. Federal Aviation Administration tweeted on Tuesday that the weather conditions could cause flight delays in Minnesota and other states in the Great Lakes and southern plains. ✈️ Traffic Report: ⛈️/🌬️ at @DFWAirport. ☁️/🌬️/🌧️ could impact @flySEA, @MCO, @flyLAXairport, @LASairport, @flySFO & @PHXSkyHarbor. ❄️ at @EWRairport, @JFKairport, @LGAairport, @fly2midway, @fly2ohare, @mspairport, @slcairport, @DENAirport & @DTWeetin. https://t.co/cypJ0x7wnD pic.twitter.com/C7EQMFNdHW — The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) February 22, 2023 × Meanwhile, National Weather Service gave a weather forecast over the next three days, through midday Friday. Also Read | World's largest four-day work-week trial in Britain proves to be a success, here's how "Moderate, Major and Extreme winter weather impacts are expected from the West Coast to New England with travel not advised in the Upper Midwest due to blizzard conditions," it wrote earlier on Tuesday. According to media reports, SkyWest airlines was the worst hit by the severe winter storm as it cancelled 245 flights. Among others were Delta Air Lines, which cancelled 233 flights and Southwest Airlines (LUV), which cancelled 235 flights. Also Read | Toyota accedes to unions' demands, set to provide biggest wage hike in two decades Southwest airlines cancellations were primarily proactive as the country is bracing for severe weather conditions in the upcoming days. About 100 flights were cancelled from Denver International Airport. Earlier, during peak holiday season last year in December, Southwest Airlines ended up cancelling over 16,700 flights. Watch | Wagner group head accuses Russian command of treason With the imminent severe weather conditions now looming large in the United States once again, the airline is facing a challenge in carrying out its operations smoothly for the second time. Weather service gave out high wind warning in parts of the Dakotas and Minnesota. The service said wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph and the wind chills are expected to reach minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz cautioned everyone to stay safe saying that the state people are no strangers to extreme weather, but this storm "could break records." (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.

Over 1000 flights cancelled as parts of US brace for severe winter storm

Ahead of Ukraine war completing its one year, US President Joe Biden delivered an impassioned speech from Polish capital, Warsaw. Biden's speech came hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered his annual state of the nation address.

US President Biden rallies NATO allies in Poland, says 'Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia'

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the clamour is growing for the U.S. to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets. However, Will the U.S. greenlight F-16 for Ukraine? That is yet to be seen.

Will the U.S. greenlight F-16 for Ukraine?

A Mexican dog, 12 years ago became the victim of the violence of Mexican drug traffickers. The drug traffickers cut off the two front legs of a dog named Pay de Limon. Today, Pay de Limon is in the running for the title of 'Pet of the Year' in the United States.

Meet Pay de Limon, a dog rescued from the torture of criminal groups

The United States has agreed to return 77 antiquities, including relief carved stone heads, Quran manuscript pages, a bronze inscribed bowl, and a Funerary Stele, to Yemen. The pieces date back to the 1st century BCE and belong to the Minaean tribal cultures in northwest Yemen's highlands. This is a welcome development for Yemen, which has been ravaged by an eight-year civil war.

Watch: The West Asia Post | End of the Truce in Yemen

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-end-of-the-truce-in-yemen-524565/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The return of these antiquities is a result of a campaign launched by New York state's justice department to restore looted antiquities to their countries of origin. The campaign has been ongoing for several years and has resulted in the return of at least 700 pieces to 14 countries, including Cambodia, Egypt, Greece, India, Iraq, Italy, and Pakistan, between 2020 and 2021.

The 64 carved stone heads were confiscated in the United States as part of a 2012 plea bargain from an antiquities smuggler named Mousa Khouli, also known as "Morris" Khouli. The antiquities were imported into the US from Dubai using fake documentation.

The announcement of the return of the antiquities was made jointly by the prosecutor's office, the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department, and the Smithsonian Institution, which includes nearly 20 museums in the United States. The Yemeni government and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art have signed an agreement to preserve the objects for two years, with the option of renewing it at Yemen's request.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-war-destroys-yemens-present-museums-struggle-to-preserve-its-past-390365">As war destroys Yemen's present, museums struggle to preserve its past</a>

Yemen's ambassador to the United States, Mohammed Al-Hadhrami, expressed his gratitude to New York for the return of the antiquities. He also thanked the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art for agreeing to temporarily hold these antiquities until they are fully repatriated back to Yemen. The return of these antiquities is a significant step towards recognising the cultural heritage of Yemen and preserving it for future generations.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The United States has agreed to return 77 antiquities, including relief carved stone heads, Quran manuscript pages, a bronze inscribed bowl, and a Funerary Stele, to Yemen.

The United States has agreed to return 77 antiquities, including relief carved stone heads, Quran manuscript pages, a bronze inscribed bowl, and a Funerary Stele, to Yemen. The pieces date back to the 1st century BCE and belong to the Minaean tribal cultures in northwest Yemen's highlands. This is a welcome development for Yemen, which has been ravaged by an eight-year civil war. Watch: The West Asia Post | End of the Truce in Yemen × The return of these antiquities is a result of a campaign launched by New York state's justice department to restore looted antiquities to their countries of origin. The campaign has been ongoing for several years and has resulted in the return of at least 700 pieces to 14 countries, including Cambodia, Egypt, Greece, India, Iraq, Italy, and Pakistan, between 2020 and 2021. The 64 carved stone heads were confiscated in the United States as part of a 2012 plea bargain from an antiquities smuggler named Mousa Khouli, also known as "Morris" Khouli. The antiquities were imported into the US from Dubai using fake documentation. The announcement of the return of the antiquities was made jointly by the prosecutor's office, the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department, and the Smithsonian Institution, which includes nearly 20 museums in the United States. The Yemeni government and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art have signed an agreement to preserve the objects for two years, with the option of renewing it at Yemen's request. Also Read | As war destroys Yemen's present, museums struggle to preserve its past Yemen's ambassador to the United States, Mohammed Al-Hadhrami, expressed his gratitude to New York for the return of the antiquities. He also thanked the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art for agreeing to temporarily hold these antiquities until they are fully repatriated back to Yemen. The return of these antiquities is a significant step towards recognising the cultural heritage of Yemen and preserving it for future generations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US agrees to return 77 stolen antiquities to civil war-torn Yemen

us-1

Us, News on Us, stories on Us, articles on Us, Us stories at Wion, Us news, Us latest news

us 1

In pics | US: California witnesses storm bringing heavy snowfall, record rainfall

‘Fab 4’ chip group’s senior officials discussed supply chain resilience at first meeting: Taiwan

No signs of endgame in Russia-Ukraine war: Jets for Kyiv? No consensus among NATO allies

Has America lost the war on drugs?

Gravitas: What is the 'Zombie drug'?

India’s push to regulate cryptocurrencies gets support from IMF, US at G20

US: In over three years, Florida executes first prisoner for murder at a shopping mall in 1990

US plans to expand military training to Taiwanese armed forces

US announces new sanctions on Russian banks, defence sector, blocks semiconductor access

Gravitas: Chinese Professor loses job for glorifying the West

Protecting California's wild poppies

Extreme weather affects crawfish harvests

What is Xylazine? How is the medicine turning people into zombies?

What is Xylazine? How is the medicine turning people into zombies?

EXPLAINED | Everything about Ajay Banga, Indian-American executive nominated to lead the World Bank

U.S. Blizzard: Winter storm in Northern America grounds 3,500 flights, roads & highways blocked

U.S.: Bill Gates buys 3.76% stake in Dutch drinks giant Heineken | World Business Watch

U.S. Housing market drop biggest since 2008, mortgage rates soar | World Business Watch

U.S. court ruling on frozen Afghan bank assets, Taliban demands U.S. to return them

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calls for increased economic aid to Ukraine

Flights grounded as massive storm hits US heartland

Nirmala Sitharaman meets U.S. Treasury Secretary Yellen ahead of Bengaluru G20 meet

Explained | US faces threat from invasive Canadian ‘super pigs’: All you need to know

G20 Finance meet in India: U.S. Treasury Secy Janet Yellen addresses meet