In an interesting development in US presidential race, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy find themselves tied for second place in the Republican presidential field in a new poll.

US: Indian-origin Vivek Ramaswamy races ahead of others in Republican race

US: Trump, Vivek Ramaswamy front-runners to face Biden in President election

<p>Suspected North Korean hackers have targeted a joint U.S.-South Korea military exercise being held this week though classified information has not been compromised, South Korean police said on Sunday.</p>

<p>South Korean and U.S. forces will on Monday begin 11-day Ulchi Freedom Guardian summer exercises to improve their ability to respond to North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats.</p>

<p>North Korea objects to such exercises saying they are preparations by the U.S. and its South Korean ally for an invasion of it.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-about-30000-in-british-columbia-under-evacuation-order-with-thousands-more-on-alert-627128">Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order with thousands more on alert</a></p>

<p>The hackers were believed to be linked to a North Korean group that researchers call Kimsuky, and they carried out their hack via emails to South Korean contractors working at the South Korea-U.S. combined exercise war simulation centre, the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said in a statement.</p>

<p>"It was confirmed that military-related information was not stolen," police said in a statement on Sunday.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twenty-five-chinese-air-force-planes-crossed-taiwan-straits-median-line-taipei-627130">Twenty-five Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line: Taipei</a></p>

<p>North Korea has previously denied any role in cyberattacks.</p>

<p>The Kimsuky hackers has long used “spear-phishing” emails that trick targets into giving up passwords or clicking attachments or links that load malware, according to researchers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages</strong></p>

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<p>South Korean police and the U.S. military conducted a joint investigation and found the IP address used in the hacking attempt matched one identified in a 2014 hack against South Korea's nuclear reactor operator, police said.</p>

<p>At that time, South Korea accused North Korea of being behind that cyberattack.</p>

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Suspected North Korean hackers have targeted a joint U.S.-South Korea military exercise being held this week though classified information has not been compromised, South Korean police said on Sunday.

Suspected North Korean hackers have targeted a joint U.S.-South Korea military exercise being held this week though classified information has not been compromised, South Korean police said on Sunday. South Korean and U.S. forces will on Monday begin 11-day Ulchi Freedom Guardian summer exercises to improve their ability to respond to North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats. North Korea objects to such exercises saying they are preparations by the U.S. and its South Korean ally for an invasion of it. Also Read | Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order with thousands more on alert The hackers were believed to be linked to a North Korean group that researchers call Kimsuky, and they carried out their hack via emails to South Korean contractors working at the South Korea-U.S. combined exercise war simulation centre, the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency said in a statement. "It was confirmed that military-related information was not stolen," police said in a statement on Sunday. Also Read | Twenty-five Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line: Taipei North Korea has previously denied any role in cyberattacks. The Kimsuky hackers has long used “spear-phishing” emails that trick targets into giving up passwords or clicking attachments or links that load malware, according to researchers. Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages × South Korean police and the U.S. military conducted a joint investigation and found the IP address used in the hacking attempt matched one identified in a 2014 hack against South Korea's nuclear reactor operator, police said. At that time, South Korea accused North Korea of being behind that cyberattack. 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. ×

North Korean hackers target US-South Korea military drills, police say

Vivek Ramaswamy seems to be the choice with GOP supporters who seem to be favouring the newest entry to the Republican Presidential candidacy race in a new poll.

Vivek Ramaswamy dethrones Pence, ties with DeSantis as 2nd favourite

The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the news agency Reuters reported citing a US official who apparently confirmed it on Thursday (August 17). According to the report, it will happen as soon as pilot training is completed.

US approves sending F-16 jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands

The presidents of South Korea, Japan, and the United States came to an agreement at Camp David on Friday to strengthen their military and economic cooperation and to jointly denounce China's "dangerous and aggressive behavior" in the South China Sea. The Biden administration convened the summit with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in an effort to project unity in the face of China's expanding influence and North Korea's nuclear threats.

Trilateral Meet: US, Japan, South Korea announce deeper defence cooperation

The military of North Korea said that it had launched airplanes after a U.S. surveillance plane violated its airspace off its east coast.

North Korea scrambles warplanes to ward off US spy plane

<p>Leader of Turkish Cypriot Ersin Tatar, on Saturday (August 19), called the road project which has triggered a rare tension with the United Nations peacekeepers in the region, “essential”. Meanwhile, Turkey’s ruling party spokesman called the UN peacekeepers’ response “unacceptable” which blocked the construction in the buffer zone dividing Cyprus.</p>

<h2><strong>Turkey and Turkish Cypriots criticise UN</strong></h2>

<p>The criticism by Turkey comes a day after a scuffle broke out between UN peacekeepers and Turkish Cypriot security personnel when the peacekeepers tried to block construction of a controversial road in Pyla, an ethnically mixed village. The area, the UN says, is a part of the buffer zone and under its jurisdiction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The area in question is between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus in the south and a breakaway Turkish Cypriot statelet in the north. On Saturday, Turkish Cypriot officials accused the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) of overstepping its boundaries.</p>

<p>“It is unfortunate that an attempt was made by UNFICYP to obstruct the development of the road being carried out by a civilian contractor, within the sovereign territory of the TRNC,” said Tatar, in a statement to Reuters, referring to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a breakaway state recognised only by Ankara.<br />
<br />
Similarly, Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkey’s ruling AKP party defended the road project and slammed the UN’s move. “The attitude of the UN peacekeeping force serving in Cyprus...was unacceptable and extremely wrong,” said the Celik, on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that the UN peacekeepers’ attitude “aimed at pleasing the Greek Cypriot side has damaged the reputation” of the UN mission in Cyprus. Notably, Pyla is the only village where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots live side by side.</p>

<p>Authorities in TRNC have also defended the project and said it had a “humanitarian objective” and aimed at providing ease of access to TRNC territory for our citizens” living in the village.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tatar, also the president of the TRNC, told Reuters the road was essential for purely humanitarian grounds to address economic and transportation issues for Turkish Cypriots living in that village.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UN responds to accusations</strong></h2>

<p>The UN mission on the east Mediterranean island, addressing the incident, said that their peacekeepers were assaulted as they tried to block “unauthorised construction work” near Pyla. The scuffle has since drawn condemnation from the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN has also said that just under half of the 11.5 kilometres falls within the Turkish Cypriot-controlled territory. A spokesperson for UNFICYP told Reuters, that there was no construction underway on Saturday, and peacekeepers remained in the area, which was “firmly” within the buffer zone.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Leader of Turkish Cypriot Ersin Tatar, on Saturday (August 19), called the road project which has triggered a rare tension with the United Nations peacekeepers in the region, “essential”.

Leader of Turkish Cypriot Ersin Tatar, on Saturday (August 19), called the road project which has triggered a rare tension with the United Nations peacekeepers in the region, “essential”. Meanwhile, Turkey’s ruling party spokesman called the UN peacekeepers’ response “unacceptable” which blocked the construction in the buffer zone dividing Cyprus. Turkey and Turkish Cypriots criticise UN The criticism by Turkey comes a day after a scuffle broke out between UN peacekeepers and Turkish Cypriot security personnel when the peacekeepers tried to block construction of a controversial road in Pyla, an ethnically mixed village. The area, the UN says, is a part of the buffer zone and under its jurisdiction. The area in question is between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus in the south and a breakaway Turkish Cypriot statelet in the north. On Saturday, Turkish Cypriot officials accused the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) of overstepping its boundaries. “It is unfortunate that an attempt was made by UNFICYP to obstruct the development of the road being carried out by a civilian contractor, within the sovereign territory of the TRNC,” said Tatar, in a statement to Reuters, referring to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a breakaway state recognised only by Ankara. Similarly, Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkey’s ruling AKP party defended the road project and slammed the UN’s move. “The attitude of the UN peacekeeping force serving in Cyprus...was unacceptable and extremely wrong,” said the Celik, on X (formerly Twitter). He also said that the UN peacekeepers’ attitude “aimed at pleasing the Greek Cypriot side has damaged the reputation” of the UN mission in Cyprus. Notably, Pyla is the only village where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots live side by side. Authorities in TRNC have also defended the project and said it had a “humanitarian objective” and aimed at providing ease of access to TRNC territory for our citizens” living in the village. Tatar, also the president of the TRNC, told Reuters the road was essential for purely humanitarian grounds to address economic and transportation issues for Turkish Cypriots living in that village. UN responds to accusations The UN mission on the east Mediterranean island, addressing the incident, said that their peacekeepers were assaulted as they tried to block “unauthorised construction work” near Pyla. The scuffle has since drawn condemnation from the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union. The UN has also said that just under half of the 11.5 kilometres falls within the Turkish Cypriot-controlled territory. A spokesperson for UNFICYP told Reuters, that there was no construction underway on Saturday, and peacekeepers remained in the area, which was “firmly” within the buffer zone. (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.

Turkey slams UN approach to Cyprus row; Turkish Cypriot calls disputed road project ‘essential’

The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated BA.2.86 as a "variant under monitoring" because of the numerous mutations it carries. The CDC announced on Twitter(X) that the new lineage of the virus, known as BA.2.86, has been found in Israel, Denmark, and the United States.

New Covid variant BA.2.86 found in Israel, Denmark and US

Hunter Biden's misdemeanour tax charges have been dismissed by a Delaware Judge. Prosecutor David Weiss says that he will re-file the charges. What does this mean for Joe Biden's 2024 Presidential campaign? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Hunter Biden's misdemeanour tax charges dismissed

<p>Imagine being at home with your family when suddenly, out of nowhere, a huge block of ice falls from the sky and smashes into your house. That's exactly what happened to a family in Massachusetts.</p>

<p>One evening, as they were inside their home, they heard an incredibly loud noise. The family described it as an explosion, like the loudest sound he had ever heard. At first, they thought their house had been struck by lightning, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Worried for their safety, they hurried upstairs to make sure their two kids were okay. Surprisingly, despite the thunderous noise, the children were peacefully asleep. After checking on their children, they went on a hunt around the house to figure out what had caused the terrifying noise. What they found was astonishing.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-makes-byakuya-worlds-most-expensive-ice-cream-cost-over-6000-per-serving-594046">What makes Byakuya, world's most expensive ice cream, cost over $6,000 per serving?</a></p>

<h2><strong>A massive chunk of ice</strong></h2>

<p>When they went outside, they discovered a massive block of ice sitting on their back steps. Not only that, but there was debris scattered all over their yard and roof. This wasn't something you'd expect to find in your backyard!</p>

<p>At first, they&nbsp;had no idea where this giant chunk of ice had come from.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, they couldn't see much damage at first. But when they&nbsp;went inside, they realised the situation was more serious than they thought.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-ice-in-antarctica-reaches-new-lows-scientists-warn-no-quick-fix-623581">As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix'</a></p>

<h2>Damage inside and out</h2>

<p>The ice had made a big hole in their roof. From the outside, it looked like the impact was about 18 inches to two feet wide. But inside their home, the damage was even worse. It was a puzzling and alarming situation.</p>

<p>Jeff and his wife gathered about 10 pounds of the ice in bags, but there was still a lot more of it around. They were determined to figure out what had happened and why this huge chunk of ice had fallen on their house.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Iceberg breaks off from Antarctica Ice Shelf</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Investigation underway</strong></h2>

<p>The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the people responsible for making sure flying is safe, have started an investigation. They want to find out if the ice really fell from an airplane and, if so, how it ended up falling on Jeff's house. It's a serious matter, and they're working to uncover the truth.</p>

<p>So, while it was a pretty strange and scary experience for Jeff and his family, the most important thing is that everyone is safe and sound.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Imagine being at home with your family when suddenly, out of nowhere, a huge block of ice falls from the sky and smashes into your house. That's exactly what happened to a family in Massachusetts.

Imagine being at home with your family when suddenly, out of nowhere, a huge block of ice falls from the sky and smashes into your house. That's exactly what happened to a family in Massachusetts. One evening, as they were inside their home, they heard an incredibly loud noise. The family described it as an explosion, like the loudest sound he had ever heard. At first, they thought their house had been struck by lightning, reported the Associated Press. Worried for their safety, they hurried upstairs to make sure their two kids were okay. Surprisingly, despite the thunderous noise, the children were peacefully asleep. After checking on their children, they went on a hunt around the house to figure out what had caused the terrifying noise. What they found was astonishing. Also read | What makes Byakuya, world's most expensive ice cream, cost over $6,000 per serving? A massive chunk of ice When they went outside, they discovered a massive block of ice sitting on their back steps. Not only that, but there was debris scattered all over their yard and roof. This wasn't something you'd expect to find in your backyard! At first, they had no idea where this giant chunk of ice had come from. Surprisingly, they couldn't see much damage at first. But when they went inside, they realised the situation was more serious than they thought. Also read | As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix' Damage inside and out The ice had made a big hole in their roof. From the outside, it looked like the impact was about 18 inches to two feet wide. But inside their home, the damage was even worse. It was a puzzling and alarming situation. Jeff and his wife gathered about 10 pounds of the ice in bags, but there was still a lot more of it around. They were determined to figure out what had happened and why this huge chunk of ice had fallen on their house. Also watch | WION Climate Tracker: Iceberg breaks off from Antarctica Ice Shelf Investigation underway The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the people responsible for making sure flying is safe, have started an investigation. They want to find out if the ice really fell from an airplane and, if so, how it ended up falling on Jeff's house. It's a serious matter, and they're working to uncover the truth. So, while it was a pretty strange and scary experience for Jeff and his family, the most important thing is that everyone is safe and sound. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Icy surprise: Gigantic sky-falling ice chunk takes unusual pit stop in US family home

<p>A wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, is rapidly spreading through eastern Washington state, prompting urgent actions from authorities, media reports said. As a result, two medical facilities had to seek shelter in place while some residents have been instructed to leave their homes for safety.&nbsp;Spokane County Fire District 10 released a statement via social media confirming the progression of the Gray Fire. Covering an expanse of approximately 500 acres near Medical Lake, Washington, the fire has triggered concerns and necessitated swift response measures.</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuation orders for Medical Lake residents</strong></h2>

<p>In light of the escalating fire situation, evacuation directives have been issued for residents residing in the Medical Lake vicinity, along with those in the area located to the south of the city. The Spokane County Fire District has taken these precautionary actions to ensure the safety of all individuals residing in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum</a></p>

<p>Two state-operated medical facilities, namely Eastern State Hospital and Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center, are currently implementing shelter-in-place protocols.</p>

<p>Norah West, the assistant director of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, told CNN media outlet that these facilities are taking necessary precautions in response to the unfolding emergency.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaros-legal-troubles-deepen-as-quote-authorises-probe-into-his-finances-626878">Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances</a></p>

<p>“This is an emerging situation and we are working to confirm details on the ground,” West reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Aircraft deployed in firefighting efforts</strong></h2>

<p>As the wildfire continues to grow, authorities have called upon aircraft resources to combat the flames and control the fire's advance. Spokane County Fire District 10 has mobilised aerial support as part of its comprehensive strategy to contain the Gray Fire.</p>

<h2><strong>No reported casualties&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At present, there are no reported casualties resulting from the Gray Fire, according to Sarah Jydstrup, a spokesperson for Spokane County Fire District 10, reported CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The unfolding disaster is centered around the region of Medical Lake, situated approximately 15 miles to the southwest of Spokane.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Canada wildfires&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, many are swiftly leaving the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories due to the presence of over 200 wildfires. This has resulted in many people encountering hazardous road conditions or waiting in long queues for hours in hopes of securing essential emergency flights. Evacuation efforts are also ongoing in British Columbia.</p>

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A wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, is rapidly spreading through eastern Washington state, prompting urgent actions from authorities, media reports said. As a result, two medical facilities had to seek shelter in place while some residents have been instructed to leave their homes for safety.

A wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, is rapidly spreading through eastern Washington state, prompting urgent actions from authorities, media reports said. As a result, two medical facilities had to seek shelter in place while some residents have been instructed to leave their homes for safety. Spokane County Fire District 10 released a statement via social media confirming the progression of the Gray Fire. Covering an expanse of approximately 500 acres near Medical Lake, Washington, the fire has triggered concerns and necessitated swift response measures. Evacuation orders for Medical Lake residents In light of the escalating fire situation, evacuation directives have been issued for residents residing in the Medical Lake vicinity, along with those in the area located to the south of the city. The Spokane County Fire District has taken these precautionary actions to ensure the safety of all individuals residing in the area. Also Read | Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum Two state-operated medical facilities, namely Eastern State Hospital and Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center, are currently implementing shelter-in-place protocols. Norah West, the assistant director of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, told CNN media outlet that these facilities are taking necessary precautions in response to the unfolding emergency. Also Read | Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances “This is an emerging situation and we are working to confirm details on the ground,” West reportedly said. Aircraft deployed in firefighting efforts As the wildfire continues to grow, authorities have called upon aircraft resources to combat the flames and control the fire's advance. Spokane County Fire District 10 has mobilised aerial support as part of its comprehensive strategy to contain the Gray Fire. No reported casualties At present, there are no reported casualties resulting from the Gray Fire, according to Sarah Jydstrup, a spokesperson for Spokane County Fire District 10, reported CNN. Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock? × The unfolding disaster is centered around the region of Medical Lake, situated approximately 15 miles to the southwest of Spokane. Canada wildfires Meanwhile, many are swiftly leaving the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories due to the presence of over 200 wildfires. This has resulted in many people encountering hazardous road conditions or waiting in long queues for hours in hopes of securing essential emergency flights. Evacuation efforts are also ongoing in British Columbia. 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. ×

Escalating wildfire threatens Washington state residents, triggers urgent evacuations

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<p>A pilot operating a scheduled LATAM Airlines flight from Miami to Santiago in Chile died after falling sick in the plane, three hours after takeoff. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Panama City, where Captain Ivan Andaur, 56, was pronounced dead upon arrival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LATAM's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliers with registration CC-BGI&nbsp;departed from Miami for Chile as flight LA505 on Monday, August 14, with 271 people on board.</p>

<p>After three hours into the trip, the flight's commander, Captain Andaur, reportedly needed sudden medical assistance. He left the flight deck and went to the bathroom. However, he collapsed, and other crew members rushed in for emergency assistance.</p>

<p>The flight crew made an emergency landing at Panama City's Tocumen International Airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unfortunately, the medical teams declared Andaur dead when the plane arrived in Panama City.</p>

<p>He had 25 years of service flying for LATAM.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>LATAM airlines statement on veteran pilot's death</strong></h2>

<p>LATAM issued a stement, saying,&nbsp;"LATAM Airlines Group reports that flight LA505 yesterday, which was on the Miami-Santiago route, had to land at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama due to a medical emergency for one of the three members of the command crew."</p>

<p>It also mentioned the medical team provided emergency services, but the pilot sadly passed.</p>

<p>The statement also said, "We are deeply moved by what has happened, and we extend our sincere condolences to the employee's family. We are deeply grateful for his 25-year career and valuable contribution, always distinguished by his dedication, professionalism, and dedication."</p>

<p>LATAM Airlines clarified that during the flight, the crew followed the necessary safety protocols to protect the life of the affected pilot.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-plane-carrying-eight-people-crashes-into-a-road-all-dead-626352">Malaysia: Plane carrying eight crashes in landing bid; all aboard, 2 locals dead</a></strong></p>

<p>After the incident, the aircraft departed from Panama City on Tuesday, August 15 and arrived in Santiago after 5 hours and 31 minutes.</p>

<p>Pilot incapacitation is a rare event. According to Simple Flying, there were several incidents in 2023 where a crew member on a flight became unwell, causing the remaining pilot to land the plane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a Southwest Airlines flight from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada, to Columbus, Ohio, in March, a pilot operating the Boeing 737-700 became unwell and needed medical assistance shortly after takeoff. A commercial pilot who was not on duty helped with radio communications as the plane headed back to Las Vegas.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A pilot operating a scheduled LATAM Airlines flight from Miami to Santiago in Chile died after falling sick in the plane, three hours after takeoff. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Panama City, where Captain Ivan Andaur, 56, was pronounced dead upon arrival.

A pilot operating a scheduled LATAM Airlines flight from Miami to Santiago in Chile died after falling sick in the plane, three hours after takeoff. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Panama City, where Captain Ivan Andaur, 56, was pronounced dead upon arrival. LATAM's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliers with registration CC-BGI departed from Miami for Chile as flight LA505 on Monday, August 14, with 271 people on board. After three hours into the trip, the flight's commander, Captain Andaur, reportedly needed sudden medical assistance. He left the flight deck and went to the bathroom. However, he collapsed, and other crew members rushed in for emergency assistance. The flight crew made an emergency landing at Panama City's Tocumen International Airport. Unfortunately, the medical teams declared Andaur dead when the plane arrived in Panama City. He had 25 years of service flying for LATAM. LATAM airlines statement on veteran pilot's death LATAM issued a stement, saying, "LATAM Airlines Group reports that flight LA505 yesterday, which was on the Miami-Santiago route, had to land at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama due to a medical emergency for one of the three members of the command crew." It also mentioned the medical team provided emergency services, but the pilot sadly passed. The statement also said, "We are deeply moved by what has happened, and we extend our sincere condolences to the employee's family. We are deeply grateful for his 25-year career and valuable contribution, always distinguished by his dedication, professionalism, and dedication." LATAM Airlines clarified that during the flight, the crew followed the necessary safety protocols to protect the life of the affected pilot. ALSO READ | Malaysia: Plane carrying eight crashes in landing bid; all aboard, 2 locals dead After the incident, the aircraft departed from Panama City on Tuesday, August 15 and arrived in Santiago after 5 hours and 31 minutes. Pilot incapacitation is a rare event. According to Simple Flying, there were several incidents in 2023 where a crew member on a flight became unwell, causing the remaining pilot to land the plane. During a Southwest Airlines flight from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada, to Columbus, Ohio, in March, a pilot operating the Boeing 737-700 became unwell and needed medical assistance shortly after takeoff. A commercial pilot who was not on duty helped with radio communications as the plane headed back to Las Vegas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Pilot dies in plane after falling ill three hours into the flight; Here's what happened

Asia-pacific markets began the day with decline as investors digested a mix of factors including Japan's recent inflation figures and fresh challenges in China's real estate sector.

Asian markets open lower; US stocks extend losing run | World Business Watch

A rise in US mortgage rates has lowered housing affordability to its lowest level in almost four decades. Holding out for a break is a high-stakes bet for those looking to get into the housing market. The property boom's price rises finally slowed last year, but house prices have recovered the roughly $3 trillion they lost. One indicator of borrowing costs has reached a level not seen in almost two decades, and the federal reserve has hinted it may raise rates further, boosting the likelihood of 8% mortgage rates.

Housing affordability hits worst point in 40 years

US President Joe Biden will host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yun Suk Yeol in Camp David. Now reports say that the leaders will launch a series of joint initiatives on defence and technology.

US-Japan-South Korea historic first trilateral summit at Camp David

Chinese real estate behemoth, evergrande, has filed for protection from creditors in a US Bankruptcy court. Evergrande, which is the world's most indebted property developer, has become the poster child for China's ongoing property crisis. The company has filed for protection under Chapter 15 of the bankruptcy code. This chapter shields non-US Companies that are undergoing restructurings from creditors.

World's most indebted realty firm goes bust

<p>US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday (August 17) that it was keeping an eye on a new, highly mutated lineage of virus that causes COVID-19. The lineage is named BA.2.86. It has reportedly been detected in the United States, Israel as well as in Denmark. The CDC has said this on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>"As we learn more about BA.2.86, CDC's advice on protecting yourself from COVID-19 remains the same," the agency said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">CDC is tracking a new lineage of the virus that causes COVID-19. This lineage is named BA.2.86, and has been detected in the United States, Denmark and Israel. CDC is gathering more information and will share more about this lineage as we learn it.</p>
— CDC (@CDCgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov/status/1692326710262304890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier on Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a post on X that it was considering BA.2.86 as a "variant under monitoring". It said it was monitoring it due to large number of mutations it carries. The agency said further that only a few sequences of the variant have been reported from a handful of countries.</p>

<p>The new lineage, which has 36 mutations from the currently-dominant XBB.1.5 COVID variant "harkens back to an earlier branch" of the virus, explained Dr. S. Wesley Long, medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist. Dr Long was quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>He said it remains to be seen whether BA.2.86 will be able to out-compete other strains of the virus or have any advantage in escaping immune responses from prior infection or vaccination.</p>

<p>Reuters quoted \virologist Jesse Bloom, who said that early analysis indicated that the new variant "will have equal or greater escape than XBB.1.5 from antibodies elicited by pre-Omicron and first-generation Omicron variants."</p>

<p>Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 is the strain that's targetted by vaccines in upcoming Covid booster shots.</p>

<p>Bloom's slides note that the most likely scenario is that BA.2.86 is less transmissible than current dominant variants, so never spreads widely, but more sequencing data is needed.</p>

<p>"My biggest concern would be that it could cause a bigger spike in cases than what we have seen in recent waves," Dr. Long said. "The boosters will still help you fight off COVID in general."</p>

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US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday (August 17) that it was keeping an eye on a new, highly mutated lineage of virus that causes COVID-19.

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday (August 17) that it was keeping an eye on a new, highly mutated lineage of virus that causes COVID-19. The lineage is named BA.2.86. It has reportedly been detected in the United States, Israel as well as in Denmark. The CDC has said this on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "As we learn more about BA.2.86, CDC's advice on protecting yourself from COVID-19 remains the same," the agency said. CDC is tracking a new lineage of the virus that causes COVID-19. This lineage is named BA.2.86, and has been detected in the United States, Denmark and Israel. CDC is gathering more information and will share more about this lineage as we learn it. — CDC (@CDCgov) August 18, 2023 × Earlier on Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a post on X that it was considering BA.2.86 as a "variant under monitoring". It said it was monitoring it due to large number of mutations it carries. The agency said further that only a few sequences of the variant have been reported from a handful of countries. The new lineage, which has 36 mutations from the currently-dominant XBB.1.5 COVID variant "harkens back to an earlier branch" of the virus, explained Dr. S. Wesley Long, medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist. Dr Long was quoted by Reuters. He said it remains to be seen whether BA.2.86 will be able to out-compete other strains of the virus or have any advantage in escaping immune responses from prior infection or vaccination. Reuters quoted \virologist Jesse Bloom, who said that early analysis indicated that the new variant "will have equal or greater escape than XBB.1.5 from antibodies elicited by pre-Omicron and first-generation Omicron variants." Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 is the strain that's targetted by vaccines in upcoming Covid booster shots. Bloom's slides note that the most likely scenario is that BA.2.86 is less transmissible than current dominant variants, so never spreads widely, but more sequencing data is needed. "My biggest concern would be that it could cause a bigger spike in cases than what we have seen in recent waves," Dr. Long said. "The boosters will still help you fight off COVID in general." 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 ×

US: CDC keeps eye on new lineage of virus that causes Covid

The fight for legal and safe abortion continues in the United States a new audience reports a court of appeals in New Orleans court of appeals ruled to limit access to abortion pills.

US court limits access to abortion pills: Biden administration to appeal against ruling

Targets recent earnings report provides valuable insights into the current state of American economy and consumer behaviour. The retail giants' performance sheds light on what people are buying.

Cartonomics: Decoding the state of US economy | World DNA

For the first time the leaders of Japan, South Korea and the United States are holding a trilateral summit. The leaders will meet at Camp David – the traditional presidential retreat. They’re expected to discuss increasing security ties and a plan by Japan to start releasing treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant – as soon as the end of August. Henry Ridgwell reports from Tokyo.

Leaders of Japan, South Korea & the US are holding a trilateral summit

<p>Officials in the US state of Georgia are investigating online threats made against members of the grand jury that indicted former United States President Donald Trump’s alleged election interference investigation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-indicted-over-2020-election-interference-in-georgia-625533">on Monday</a>. This comes after personal information including, names and addresses of grand jury members were posted online, said the local sheriff’s office.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, on Thursday (August 17) said that they are working on tracking the origins of threats against grand jury members who, earlier this week, indicted Trump on 13 charges, which included racketeering and election meddling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after personal information, including addresses and photos of the jurors, were reportedly shared on right-wing platforms. Officials in Fulton County, which also includes Atlanta, the state capital, said threats could amount to jury intimidation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our investigators are working closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to track down the origin of threats in Fulton County and other jurisdictions,” said the sheriff’s office, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We take this matter very seriously and are coordinating with our law enforcement partners to respond quickly to any credible threat and to ensure the safety of those individuals who carried out their civic duty.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Whose information was supposedly leaked?</strong></h2>

<p>The posts that purportedly share names and addresses of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-is-donald-trumps-georgia-indictment-different-626154">Fulton County grand jury </a>are being tracked by Advance Democracy, a non-profit research organisation whose president, Dan Jones, a former FBI investigator and a part of the Senate intelligence committee told Reuters, “Statements by Trump and his allies continue to inspire violent language and threats online.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the group, two NBC reporters who wrote about the grand jury incident also had their purported addresses posted online, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The organisation has also reportedly tracked posts containing violent rhetoric against the Fulton County district attorney, Fani Willis who oversaw the over two-year investigation regarding the alleged efforts made by Trump and 18 others to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group has also called on the Fulton County police to take the matter “seriously”.<br />
<br />
“The latest threats against jury members shows you don’t have to be a politician or government official to be the target,” said Jones. He added, “Equally important is that political leaders on the right denounce these threats and the statements that inspire them.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Trump’s case in Georgia</strong></h2>

<p>In a recent update about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-requests-april-2026-trial-date-for-election-interference-trial-626587">the case</a>, lawyers for Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges against his alleged attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month after the indictment by the US Special Counsel Jack Smith against Trump, the former president lashed out on his social media platform, Truth Social, and said “IF YOU GO AFTER ME, I’M COMING AFTER YOU!”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 98-page Georgia indictment on Monday listed 19 defendants and 41 criminal counts and while the document is available as a public record and does include the names of grand jurors but not their addresses or any other personally identifiable information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
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Officials in the US state of Georgia are investigating online threats made against members of the grand jury that indicted former United States President Donald Trump’s alleged election interference investigation, on Monday.

Officials in the US state of Georgia are investigating online threats made against members of the grand jury that indicted former United States President Donald Trump’s alleged election interference investigation, on Monday. This comes after personal information including, names and addresses of grand jury members were posted online, said the local sheriff’s office. What happened? The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, on Thursday (August 17) said that they are working on tracking the origins of threats against grand jury members who, earlier this week, indicted Trump on 13 charges, which included racketeering and election meddling. This comes after personal information, including addresses and photos of the jurors, were reportedly shared on right-wing platforms. Officials in Fulton County, which also includes Atlanta, the state capital, said threats could amount to jury intimidation. “Our investigators are working closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to track down the origin of threats in Fulton County and other jurisdictions,” said the sheriff’s office, in a statement. It added, “We take this matter very seriously and are coordinating with our law enforcement partners to respond quickly to any credible threat and to ensure the safety of those individuals who carried out their civic duty.” Whose information was supposedly leaked? The posts that purportedly share names and addresses of the Fulton County grand jury are being tracked by Advance Democracy, a non-profit research organisation whose president, Dan Jones, a former FBI investigator and a part of the Senate intelligence committee told Reuters, “Statements by Trump and his allies continue to inspire violent language and threats online.” According to the group, two NBC reporters who wrote about the grand jury incident also had their purported addresses posted online, reported Reuters. The organisation has also reportedly tracked posts containing violent rhetoric against the Fulton County district attorney, Fani Willis who oversaw the over two-year investigation regarding the alleged efforts made by Trump and 18 others to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The group has also called on the Fulton County police to take the matter “seriously”. “The latest threats against jury members shows you don’t have to be a politician or government official to be the target,” said Jones. He added, “Equally important is that political leaders on the right denounce these threats and the statements that inspire them.” Trump’s case in Georgia In a recent update about the case, lawyers for Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges against his alleged attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Earlier this month after the indictment by the US Special Counsel Jack Smith against Trump, the former president lashed out on his social media platform, Truth Social, and said “IF YOU GO AFTER ME, I’M COMING AFTER YOU!” The 98-page Georgia indictment on Monday listed 19 defendants and 41 criminal counts and while the document is available as a public record and does include the names of grand jurors but not their addresses or any other personally identifiable information. (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: Georgia investigates threats against Donald Trump grand jury members identified online

US President Joe Biden will host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yun Suk Yeol this Friday in Camp David. Now reports say that the leaders will launch a series of joint initiatives on defence and technology.

US-Japan-South Korea Trilateral Summit: Nations to launch series of steps on defence, tech

Hundreds of wildfires burning in Canada's north-west territories have prompted emergency declarations and the evacuations of the capital city Yellowknife - about 20,000 residents are being urged to get out of the way.

Canada crews battle wildfires, entire city evacuates | World News | WION

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