US President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum, if Hamas fails to return all remaining Israeli hostages by this Saturday, the ceasefire in Gaza should be scrapped, and ‘all hell is going to break out.’

Will Trump frighten Palestine?

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that US President Donald Trump must remember that the only way to bring home Israeli hostages is to respect the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Trump on Monday issued a stern ultimatum, warning that "all hell" will break loose unless all hostages held in Gaza are released by Saturday.
The warning comes as Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and threatened to delay future prisoner exchanges.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-says-palestinians-have-no-right-to-return-under-gaza-takeover-plan-8708500">&lsquo;Committed to buying, owning Gaza&rsquo;: Trump says Palestinians have no right to return under Gaza &lsquo;takeover&rsquo; plan</a>
"Trump must remember that there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties, and this is the only way to bring back the prisoners. The language of threats has no value and only complicates matters," he told Reuters.
<h2>Israel backs Trump's plan</h2>
Meanwhile, Israel backed US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) for his plan to "let hell break out" on Gaza if Israeli hostages are not released.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-hell-will-break-out-unless-israeli-hostages-are-released-on-saturday-feb-15-israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-8709085">Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15</a>
Israel&rsquo;s communications minister, Shlomo Karhi said, "The response must be exactly as President Trump suggested."
He suggested, "Completely halt humanitarian aid, cut off electricity, water and communications and use brutal and disproportionate force until the hostages return."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-hamas-indefinitely-delays-hostage-exchange-israel-asks-military-to-be-prepared-8708792">&lsquo;Blatant violation of ceasefire&rsquo;: Hamas indefinitely delays hostage exchange; Israel asks military to &lsquo;be prepared&rsquo;</a>
Karhi stressed, "It is time to open the gates of hell on Hamas &ndash; and this time, without any restrictions on our heroic fighters."
Speaking at the White House, Trump said he would call for an end to the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel if all hostages aren't returned.
The ceasefire between the two parties marked a pause in over 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza. Moreover, it has already facilitated the release of five groups of Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/look-like-holocaust-survivors-red-cross-demands-private-hostage-swap-after-hamas-choreographed-handover-8703128">'Look like Holocaust survivors&rsquo;: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed&nbsp;handover</a>
Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades announced on Monday that the next hostage release, "which was scheduled for next Saturday, February 15, 2025, will be postponed until further notice".
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Speaking at the White House, Trump said he would call for an end to the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel if all hostages aren't returned.

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that US President Donald Trump must remember that the only way to bring home Israeli hostages is to respect the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Trump on Monday issued a stern ultimatum, warning that "all hell" will break loose unless all hostages held in Gaza are released by Saturday. The warning comes as Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and threatened to delay future prisoner exchanges. Also read: ‘Committed to buying, owning Gaza’: Trump says Palestinians have no right to return under Gaza ‘takeover’ plan "Trump must remember that there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties, and this is the only way to bring back the prisoners. The language of threats has no value and only complicates matters," he told Reuters. Israel backs Trump's plan Meanwhile, Israel backed US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) for his plan to "let hell break out" on Gaza if Israeli hostages are not released. Also read: Trump warns Hamas 'all hell' will break loose unless Israeli hostages are released on Feb 15 Israel’s communications minister, Shlomo Karhi said, "The response must be exactly as President Trump suggested." He suggested, "Completely halt humanitarian aid, cut off electricity, water and communications and use brutal and disproportionate force until the hostages return." Also read: ‘Blatant violation of ceasefire’: Hamas indefinitely delays hostage exchange; Israel asks military to ‘be prepared’ Karhi stressed, "It is time to open the gates of hell on Hamas – and this time, without any restrictions on our heroic fighters." Speaking at the White House, Trump said he would call for an end to the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel if all hostages aren't returned. The ceasefire between the two parties marked a pause in over 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza. Moreover, it has already facilitated the release of five groups of Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Also read: 'Look like Holocaust survivors’: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed handover Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades announced on Monday that the next hostage release, "which was scheduled for next Saturday, February 15, 2025, will be postponed until further notice". (With inputs from agencies)

'Respecting truce only way to bring hostages back', Hamas warns Trump after US president's ultimatum

President Donald Trump praised JD Vance as "very capable" but declined to endorse him for a future presidential run, saying it's "too early" for such decisions. Speculation grows over Vance's political future and his potential role in Trump's legacy.

Trump praises JD Vance but withholds endorsement for 2028

The US has deported nearly 200 Venezuelan immigrants in the first repatriation flight since an agreement between both nations. While the US claims many were criminals, Venezuela denies the allegations. This marks a shift in US immigration policy toward Venezuela.

First US deportation flight sends Venezuelan immigrants home

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages or risk the collapse of the truce deal. Calling Gaza a "hell hole," Trump emphasized that failure to comply would lead to severe consequences.

Trump warns Hamas: Hostage release or truce will collapse

Trump calls JD Vance "very capable" but avoids endorsement for 2028

US President Donald Trump on Monday warned that “all hell will break loose” if Hamas fails to return all Israeli hostages from Gaza by 12 PM on Saturday. Watch this report for more details!

All hell will break loose: Trump warns Hamas if Gaza hostages not freed by Saturday

Donald Trump sets deadline to release Gaza hostages, says 'all hell will break loose'

South Korean and US troops have been staging a large-scale combined live-fire exercise at a firing range near the inter-Korean border. Watch this report for more details!

US & South Korea perform military drills near demilitarised zone

Donald Trump said he would impose 25 percent tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports, expanding his trade conflicts to the metals sector. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump to impose 25% tariffs on steel, aluminium imports

South Korean and U.S. troops have been staging a large-scale combined live-fire exercise at a firing range near the inter-Korean border. Watch this report for more details!

US and South Korea conduct joint live-fire military exercise

President Donald Trump’s offer to grant asylum to white South Africans has been rejected by Afriforum and other groups. Meanwhile, Trump has frozen US aid to South Africa over the country's controversial land law.

Afrikaner groups decline Donald Trump's refuge offer

White South African groups reject Trump's asylum offer in US

President Donald Trump’s offer to grant asylum to white South Africans has been rejected by Afriforum and other groups. Meanwhile, Trump has frozen U.S. aid to South Africa over the country's controversial land law.

Trump's South Africa plan falls flat, South Africans rejects offer

Three winter storms are expected to blast snow across the United States this week.
According to the FOX Forecast Center, the trio of storms will sweep across a large area of the country, bringing widespread snow and ice and affecting millions of Americans.
This upcoming threat arises after millions of people in Northeast and New England recover from a winter storm over the weekend that dumped several inches of snow.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-intercepts-people-attempting-to-cross-the-border-in-incredibly-cold-weather-8700643">Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather</a>
According to the forecasters, all three storms are expected to hit the Northeast and could result in snow measuring in feet instead of inches.
<h2>First storm to hit Plains on Monday</h2>
The first storm is expected to develop over the Plains on Monday (Feb 10). The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for over 20 million people in the Central Plains and mid-Atlantic.
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation on Sunday (Feb 9) morning amid the rising threat due to winter storms.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/southern-us-hit-by-historic-winter-storm-at-least-12-people-killed-8645870">Southern US hit by historic winter storm, at least 12 people killed</a>
&ldquo;Kansans have faced challenges due to winter storms this year,&rdquo; Kelly said in a statement. &ldquo;The key to meeting those challenges is to be prepared. As I did during past storms, I urge all Kansans to take measures to make sure their families are ready by making a home emergency kit and emergency plan.&rdquo;
Kelly also urged residents to avoid travel during the storms. However, if it cannot be avoided, people are advised to inform someone about their travel, ensure the gas tank is full and keep an emergency kit in the vehicle.
The storm will move towards Ohio Valley on Tuesday, then head towards the mid-Atlantic and portions of the Northeast from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning before moving offshore.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-weather-snow-storm-flight-disruptions-what-we-know-8593095">UK snow: Arctic blast snowstorm leads to airport runway closures, powercuts</a>
Washington DC, Richmond and Baltimore have been put under winter storm watches through Wednesday as heavy snow of four to six inches is predicted.
<h2>Second storm to develop over mid-Atlantic and Northeast</h2>
Just as the first storm begins to calm down, the second storm is expected to develop over the mid-Atlantic and Northeast on Wednesday (Feb 12).
According to the FOX Forecast Center, the storm will bring snow into the Midwest by Wednesday night before moving to the Northeast on Thursday (Feb 13) and may bring the highest snow of the three.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-1200-flights-cancelled-schools-closed-after-snowstorm-hits-us-northeast-690044">US snowstorms: More than 1,200 flights cancelled, schools closed in northeast region</a>
<h2>Third storm likely to impact weekend</h2>
The last storm is expected to begin later in the week and continue into the weekend, bringing another round of cold and snow to the region across the Plains to New England.
The FOX Forecast Center said that the weather conditions could follow into next week, however, it is too soon to make further predictions.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | This upcoming threat arises after millions of people in Northeast and New England recover from a winter storm over the weekend that dumped several inches of snow.

Three winter storms are expected to blast snow across the United States this week. According to the FOX Forecast Center, the trio of storms will sweep across a large area of the country, bringing widespread snow and ice and affecting millions of Americans. This upcoming threat arises after millions of people in Northeast and New England recover from a winter storm over the weekend that dumped several inches of snow. Also read | Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather According to the forecasters, all three storms are expected to hit the Northeast and could result in snow measuring in feet instead of inches. First storm to hit Plains on Monday The first storm is expected to develop over the Plains on Monday (Feb 10). The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for over 20 million people in the Central Plains and mid-Atlantic. Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation on Sunday (Feb 9) morning amid the rising threat due to winter storms. Also read | Southern US hit by historic winter storm, at least 12 people killed “Kansans have faced challenges due to winter storms this year,” Kelly said in a statement. “The key to meeting those challenges is to be prepared. As I did during past storms, I urge all Kansans to take measures to make sure their families are ready by making a home emergency kit and emergency plan.” Kelly also urged residents to avoid travel during the storms. However, if it cannot be avoided, people are advised to inform someone about their travel, ensure the gas tank is full and keep an emergency kit in the vehicle. The storm will move towards Ohio Valley on Tuesday, then head towards the mid-Atlantic and portions of the Northeast from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning before moving offshore. Also read | UK snow: Arctic blast snowstorm leads to airport runway closures, powercuts Washington DC, Richmond and Baltimore have been put under winter storm watches through Wednesday as heavy snow of four to six inches is predicted. Second storm to develop over mid-Atlantic and Northeast Just as the first storm begins to calm down, the second storm is expected to develop over the mid-Atlantic and Northeast on Wednesday (Feb 12). According to the FOX Forecast Center, the storm will bring snow into the Midwest by Wednesday night before moving to the Northeast on Thursday (Feb 13) and may bring the highest snow of the three. Also read | US snowstorms: More than 1,200 flights cancelled, schools closed in northeast region Third storm likely to impact weekend The last storm is expected to begin later in the week and continue into the weekend, bringing another round of cold and snow to the region across the Plains to New England. The FOX Forecast Center said that the weather conditions could follow into next week, however, it is too soon to make further predictions. (With inputs from agencies)

Three winter storms to blast snow across large parts of US this week, affecting millions

White South African groups reject Trump’s US Asylum offer

Super Bowl LIX played between Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles took place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Check the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/super-bowl-lix-live-score-philadelphia-eagles-vs-kansas-city-chiefs-live-box-score-play-by-play-update-2025-patrick-mahomes-vs-jalen-hurts-chiefs-vs-eagles-super-bowl-donald-trump-at-superdome-halftime-show-ads-8705747" rel="dofollow">highlights</a>.
US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday (Feb 9) that the US will impose a new 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports on Monday.
UK immigration enforcement arrested over 600 individuals in January for illegally working in the UK.
Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi reacts as Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh steps down.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/super-bowl-lix-live-score-philadelphia-eagles-vs-kansas-city-chiefs-live-box-score-play-by-play-update-2025-patrick-mahomes-vs-jalen-hurts-chiefs-vs-eagles-super-bowl-donald-trump-at-superdome-halftime-show-ads-8705747" rel="dofollow">HIGHLIGHTS | Super Bowl LIX, Philadelphia Eagles beat Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to become champions</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/10/c5zVFUvYA6GL78vdpuYL.png" alt=" Eagles win Super Bowl LIX Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
\Super Bowl LIX was played between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles finally got their revenge from the 2023 Super Bowl LVII when they lost to the Chiefs.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-impose-25-percent-tariffs-on-steel-aluminum-imports-says-donald-trump-8705765" rel="dofollow">US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/nbzbiFCO2SuppoWeVi0Y.png" alt=" Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
President Donald Trump said on Sunday (Feb 9) that the United States will impose a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports on Monday. The move becomes the latest major escalation of his trade policy overhaul. "Any steel coming into the United States is going to have a 25% tariff," Trump told reporters on Air Force One.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-600-arrested-for-working-illegally-in-uk-8705813" rel="dofollow">Over 600 arrested for working illegally in UK, says government</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/10/YOCayEUjj0m9PEXCeWlY.jpg" alt=" UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Photograph: (AFP) ">
UK immigration enforcement teams made over 600 arrests in January, a 73 per cent increase on the same period a year ago, as part of the new Labour government's plan to tackle undocumented migration and people smuggling gangs, officials said on Monday.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-rahul-gandhi-reacts-to-biren-singhs-resignation-urges-pm-modi-to-visit-the-state-8705778" rel="dofollow">Manipur: Rahul Gandhi reacts to Biren Singh's resignation, urges PM Modi to visit the state</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/XcOAXXowXabC36zOo7bn.jpg" alt=" Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. Photograph: (ANI) ">
Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi reacted to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, stepping down from the top post two years after ethnic violence was unleashed in Manipur. Gandhi said public pressure, the SC probe and the no-confidence motion were the reasons behind the decisions.&nbsp;
Watch | India&rsquo;s PM Modi heads to France on Monday for AI summit
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Begin your day informed with WION's morning news brief, delivering the top headlines and stories you need to start your day with a comprehensive global perspective.

Super Bowl LIX played between Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles took place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Check the highlights. US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday (Feb 9) that the US will impose a new 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports on Monday. UK immigration enforcement arrested over 600 individuals in January for illegally working in the UK. Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi reacts as Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh steps down. Click on the headlines for more HIGHLIGHTS | Super Bowl LIX, Philadelphia Eagles beat Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to become champions \Super Bowl LIX was played between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles finally got their revenge from the 2023 Super Bowl LVII when they lost to the Chiefs. US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump President Donald Trump said on Sunday (Feb 9) that the United States will impose a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports on Monday. The move becomes the latest major escalation of his trade policy overhaul. "Any steel coming into the United States is going to have a 25% tariff," Trump told reporters on Air Force One. Over 600 arrested for working illegally in UK, says government UK immigration enforcement teams made over 600 arrests in January, a 73 per cent increase on the same period a year ago, as part of the new Labour government's plan to tackle undocumented migration and people smuggling gangs, officials said on Monday. Manipur: Rahul Gandhi reacts to Biren Singh's resignation, urges PM Modi to visit the state Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi reacted to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, stepping down from the top post two years after ethnic violence was unleashed in Manipur. Gandhi said public pressure, the SC probe and the no-confidence motion were the reasons behind the decisions. Watch | India’s PM Modi heads to France on Monday for AI summit

Morning news brief: Eagles become Super Bowl champions; Trump to impose tariffs on steel, aluminium, and more

China&rsquo;s tit-for-tat tariffs on the US are taking effect on Monday (Feb 10). As a retaliatory measure against President Donald Trump&rsquo;s import taxes on Chinese goods, China imposed tariffs that will hit about $14 billion worth of US goods, escalating the trade war between the two largest economies in the world.
Last week on February 4, Beijing announced its tariffs shortly after an additional 10 per cent US levies came into effect, a move that Trump had called an &ldquo;opening salvo&rdquo; in the trade war against China.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-impose-25-percent-tariffs-on-steel-aluminum-imports-says-donald-trump-8705765">US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump</a>
<h2>China tariffs on US</h2>
Chinese tariffs, which range from 10 per cent to 15 per cent, target US exports, including liquefied natural gas, coal, crude oil and farm equipment as well as some automotive goods.
While experts saw the potential for negotiations to avoid a broad trade war after Beijing&rsquo;s moves, no deal has been struck by Sunday&rsquo;s (Feb 9) deadline. China&rsquo;s embassy in Washington said that tariffs came into effect today at 12:01 am Beijing time, according to Financial Times.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283">How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession</a>
<h2>Anti-monopoly violation</h2>
Earlier, China also said that it would launch a probe into the US tech Giant Google&rsquo;s violations of anti-monopoly laws.
Beijing&rsquo;s State Administration for Market Regulation said the US tech giant was &ldquo;suspected of violating the Anti-Monopoly Law of the People&rsquo;s Republic of China&rdquo;.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-challenges-discriminatory-us-tariffs-lodged-complaint-in-wto-8694910">China lodges complaint with WTO against 'discriminatory' US tariffs</a>
It has &ldquo;launched an investigation into Google in accordance with the law&rdquo; as a result, the administration said in a statement.
China has also filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization &ldquo;to defend its legitimate rights and interests&rdquo; in response to hiked US tariffs on Chinese goods.
<h2>Trump to impose new tariffs on steel, aluminium</h2>
Trump on Sunday (Feb 9) announced that the US will impose a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports on Monday, a move that will become the latest escalation in the trade war.
"Any steel coming into the United States is going to have a 25% tariff," Trump told reporters on Air Force One.
Watch | Trump announces 25% tariff on aluminium &amp; steel as he flies to super bowl lix
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Trump added that he will announce reciprocal tariffs on Tuesday or Wednesday, which would take effect almost immediately.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Chinese tariffs, which range from 10 per cent to 15 per cent, target US exports, including liquefied natural gas, coal, crude oil and farm equipment as well as some automotive goods.

China’s tit-for-tat tariffs on the US are taking effect on Monday (Feb 10). As a retaliatory measure against President Donald Trump’s import taxes on Chinese goods, China imposed tariffs that will hit about $14 billion worth of US goods, escalating the trade war between the two largest economies in the world. Last week on February 4, Beijing announced its tariffs shortly after an additional 10 per cent US levies came into effect, a move that Trump had called an “opening salvo” in the trade war against China. Also read | US to impose 25-percent tariffs on steel, aluminium imports, says Donald Trump China tariffs on US Chinese tariffs, which range from 10 per cent to 15 per cent, target US exports, including liquefied natural gas, coal, crude oil and farm equipment as well as some automotive goods. While experts saw the potential for negotiations to avoid a broad trade war after Beijing’s moves, no deal has been struck by Sunday’s (Feb 9) deadline. China’s embassy in Washington said that tariffs came into effect today at 12:01 am Beijing time, according to Financial Times. Also read | How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession Anti-monopoly violation Earlier, China also said that it would launch a probe into the US tech Giant Google’s violations of anti-monopoly laws. Beijing’s State Administration for Market Regulation said the US tech giant was “suspected of violating the Anti-Monopoly Law of the People’s Republic of China”. Also read | China lodges complaint with WTO against 'discriminatory' US tariffs It has “launched an investigation into Google in accordance with the law” as a result, the administration said in a statement. China has also filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization “to defend its legitimate rights and interests” in response to hiked US tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump to impose new tariffs on steel, aluminium Trump on Sunday (Feb 9) announced that the US will impose a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports on Monday, a move that will become the latest escalation in the trade war. "Any steel coming into the United States is going to have a 25% tariff," Trump told reporters on Air Force One. Watch | Trump announces 25% tariff on aluminium & steel as he flies to super bowl lix Trump added that he will announce reciprocal tariffs on Tuesday or Wednesday, which would take effect almost immediately. (With inputs from agencies)

China’s retaliatory import taxes on US goods go into effect

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set for a high-profile diplomatic visit to France and the US from February 10 to 13. His tour aims to strengthen strategic ties, boost defense cooperation, and enhance trade partnerships.

Pm Modi’s high-stakes diplomatic tour to France, US begins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a strategic mineral partnership with U.S. President Donald Trump, offering access to Ukraine’s rare earths and critical minerals. In return, Zelensky seeks continued financial and military support from Washington.

Zelensky offers Ukraine’s rare earth minerals to Trump for support

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un criticised trilateral military cooperation among the United States, Japan and South Korea for raising tensions in the region and vowed countermeasures, including the further development of nuclear forces.
Kim said US deployments of nuclear strategic assets, war exercises, and military cooperation with Japan and South Korea were inviting a military imbalance in the region and raising a grave challenge to the security environment, state media KCNA reported on Sunday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-new-map-omits-south-korea-reflecting-hostile-stance-8697468">North Korea&rsquo;s new map omits South Korea, reflecting hostile stance</a>
"The DPRK does not want unnecessary tension of the regional situation but will take sustained countermeasures to ensure the regional military balance," Kim said during a visit to the defence ministry on Saturday to commemorate the founding day of its Army.
DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name.
US President Donald Trump, after a meeting on Friday with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said he would have relations with North Korea, as they expressed concern over its nuclear program.
But during the visit, Kim "clarified once again the unshakable policy of more highly developing the nuclear forces," according to the report.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-vows-to-continue-nuclear-programme-8664108">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vows to continue nuclear programme</a>
On Russia's war with Ukraine, Kim said: "The army and people of the DPRK will invariably support and encourage the just cause of the Russian army and people to defend their sovereignty, security and territorial integrity in keeping with the spirit of the treaty on the comprehensive strategic partnership between the DPRK and Russia."
Last month, South Korea said it suspected North Korea of preparing to send more troops to Russia, in addition to about 11,000 soldiers who had been dispatched for the three-year-long war.
In a separate commentary released later on Sunday, North Korea's KCNA again criticised South Korea's military activity with the United States this year and warned that aggressive actions would be met by undesired consequences.
"Anyone could easily guess how we would take the fact that they carried out war exercises that were more intense than ever before at a time when diplomacy schedules were being cancelled due to political turmoil," KCNA said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Kim said US deployments of nuclear strategic assets, war exercises and military cooperation with Japan and South Korea were inviting military imbalance in the region and raising a grave challenge to the security environment.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un criticised trilateral military cooperation among the United States, Japan and South Korea for raising tensions in the region and vowed countermeasures, including the further development of nuclear forces. Kim said US deployments of nuclear strategic assets, war exercises, and military cooperation with Japan and South Korea were inviting a military imbalance in the region and raising a grave challenge to the security environment, state media KCNA reported on Sunday. Also read | North Korea’s new map omits South Korea, reflecting hostile stance "The DPRK does not want unnecessary tension of the regional situation but will take sustained countermeasures to ensure the regional military balance," Kim said during a visit to the defence ministry on Saturday to commemorate the founding day of its Army. DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name. US President Donald Trump, after a meeting on Friday with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said he would have relations with North Korea, as they expressed concern over its nuclear program. But during the visit, Kim "clarified once again the unshakable policy of more highly developing the nuclear forces," according to the report. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vows to continue nuclear programme On Russia's war with Ukraine, Kim said: "The army and people of the DPRK will invariably support and encourage the just cause of the Russian army and people to defend their sovereignty, security and territorial integrity in keeping with the spirit of the treaty on the comprehensive strategic partnership between the DPRK and Russia." Last month, South Korea said it suspected North Korea of preparing to send more troops to Russia, in addition to about 11,000 soldiers who had been dispatched for the three-year-long war. In a separate commentary released later on Sunday, North Korea's KCNA again criticised South Korea's military activity with the United States this year and warned that aggressive actions would be met by undesired consequences. "Anyone could easily guess how we would take the fact that they carried out war exercises that were more intense than ever before at a time when diplomacy schedules were being cancelled due to political turmoil," KCNA said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un criticises US-Japan-South Korea cooperation, vows countermeasures

World: Explore the intriguing cover of TIME magazine featuring Elon Musk at the Resolute Desk, sparking public debate amid Donald Trump's ongoing second presidential term.

The cover of TIME magazine’s latest issue features Elon Musk sitting behind the fabled Resolute Desk in the Oval Office of the White House. The picture has no text or caption. It is a public reminder of a question asked increasingly frequently as Donald Trump’s second presidential term unfolds. The question: who is really in charge of the government of the United States? The world’s richest man, Elon Musk, or Donald Trump, whose electoral campaign benefitted from contributions totalling $288 million from Musk. In return, the day Trump assumed office, he named Musk head of a newly-formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), whose aim is to make huge cuts in federal spending. Also read | After Biden, Trump cancels security clearances for Blinken, Jake Sullivan Critics soon dubbed Musk co-president. Social media memes and cartoons proliferated, with one of the most viewed showing Musk as a puppeteer pulling the strings of Trump. This is why the TIME cover needed no explanation. It irked Trump, whose unsmiling response to a press conference question about the depiction of Musk in the Oval Office was, “Is TIME magazine still in business? I didn’t know that.” If that was meant as an attempt at light-hearted repartee, it fell flat as reporters soon found Trump’s reaction to TIME naming him Person of the Year in December. “It’s an honour, it’s a great honour.” To put the cover episode, in week three of Trump 2.0, into context: news magazines used to have an enormous impact on public opinion through much of the 20th century. But their importance faded in an information ecosystem now dominated by social media and cable TV. Also read | Tsunami advisory issued after magnitude 7.6 earthquake hits Caribbean Still, TIME, first published in 1923, reports a circulation of 1.2 million. To return to DOGE and the controversies and achievements of Trump’s first few weeks, the words “unprecedented” and “American Exceptionalism” come to mind. There is no precedent for an unelected private citizen to be charged with cutting two trillion dollars from a 6.75 trillion federal budget. There is no precedent either for DOGE, which is not a cabinet-level department of the U.S. government but was established as an advisory group. There were no guidelines on the extent, or limits, of its power. Musk appears to believe its authority trumps laws and regulations. As to American Exceptionalism: Musk could be the poster boy for the concept, the epitome of the American dream that draws millions of foreigners to America. Also read | Alaska plane crash: Bodies of all 10 people recovered. Here’s what we know Where else could an immigrant from South Africa amass a fortune estimated at $424 billion, more than $150 million more than Jeff Bezos, the U.S.-born Jeff Bezos, who owns Amazon and is the world’s second-richest man? Where else could a private citizen, with the help of a super smart former employee of one of his companies, gain access to the payments system of the U.S. Treasury which processes federal spending accounting for roughly a fifth of the U.S. economy? Where else would a president ignore the possibility of huge conflicts of interest by giving free rein to a cost-cutting czar who has billions of dollars worth of contracts with important agencies of the government and some of the most important companies in the defence and space industries? All of this is exceptional though it is not the kind of American exceptionalism that has filled generations of Americans with pride – a country based on an idea rather than on blood and soil. So, how much government spending has been cut in the first three weeks of DOGE and what have been the primary targets of Musk’s cost-cutters? Given the outsize role of “defence” in the U.S. economy, you might assume that the Pentagon has been under early scrutiny following the “shock and awe” announcement of impending cuts. This does not appear to be the case despite a history of jaw-dropping waste. In 2018, a Republican Senator, Charles Grassley, provided several mind-boggling examples. In an opinion piece in the New York Times in December 2018, Grassley wrote that “the Defense Department has had to explain why it’s been paying $14,000 for individual 3-D printed toilet seats and purchasing cups for $1,280.00 each.” Also read | Trump talked to Putin, says Russian president 'wants to see people stop dying' in Ukraine war: Report The Pentagon’s budget for fiscal 2025 (ending in September) is $849.8 billion. But rather than going for the big stuff, both Musk and Trump have been focused on USAID, the US Agency for International Development. Its spending accounts for around one per cent of the overall federal budget. On his social media platform X, Musk described USAID as a “criminal organization. Time for it to die.” Trump asserted on his platform that USAID is “run by radical left-wing lunatics.” Neither Trump nor Musk has provided concrete examples of malfeasance or lunatic behaviour. That has not kept them from planning to cut USAID personnel from around 10,000 around the world to 294. USAID is the most visible demonstration of “soft power” demonstrating to people around the world that the United States can be a force for good. It provides food for the hungry and medicines for the sick. As Samantha Power, who ran USAID from 2021 to 2025, put it in an opinion piece in the New York Times: ”We are witnessing one of the worst and most costly foreign policy blunders in history.” Halting aid programmes around the world, she wrote, imperils millions of lives, thousands of American jobs, and billions of dollars of investment in American business and small farms. Killing USAID “is a win for autocrats everywhere,” she concluded. Judging from a string of surveys over the years, such arguments do little to touch emotional buttons for most Americans. Aid to foreigners is not popular, thanks partly to lazy journalism omitting context that might sway public opinion. Poll after poll has shown that most Americans believe that foreign aid accounts for around 25 per cent of the federal budget. Year after year, the actual figure has been around one per cent. That vast gap between perception and reality makes USAID an easy target.

The great American guessing game: who runs the country,  Trump or Musk?

An Indian national is among four persons arrested by US immigration authorities over charges related to sexual assault.
Jaspal Singh, 29, a citizen of India was arrested on January 29 in Tukwila, Washington.
Singh is charged with &ldquo;assault with sexual motivation&rdquo;, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Seattle said in a release last week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/487-presumed-indians-got-final-removal-orders-mea-on-us-deportations-8700356" rel="dofollow">'487 presumed Indians got final removal orders': MEA on US deportations</a>
The other individuals arrested are citizens of Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. All four will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
&ldquo;Protecting our communities, and preventing further victimisation is of paramount importance to ICE throughout the Pacific Northwest,&rdquo; said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle Field Office Director Drew Bostock.
&ldquo;These arrests reinforce the message that the presence of illegal criminal threats will not be tolerated.&rdquo; President Donald Trump kicked off his second term in office with an ambitious immigration agenda, promising to deport millions of undocumented immigrants and seal off the US southern border.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aggressive-and-threatening-behaviour-trespassers-barge-into-indian-consulate-in-seattle-local-authorities-called-in-8699925" rel="dofollow">'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle</a>
Since then, Trump administration officials have swiftly moved to strip temporary protections for migrants and delegate more authority to federal and state partners.
More than 8,000 people have been arrested by federal immigration authorities since Trump's inauguration. Administration officials have not shared exactly how many undocumented immigrants they're aiming to arrest this year, but daily apprehensions have already surpassed last year's daily average under President Joe Biden, CNN reported.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: 29-year-old Jaspal Singh is charged with “assault with sexual motivation”, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Seattle said in a release last week.

An Indian national is among four persons arrested by US immigration authorities over charges related to sexual assault. Jaspal Singh, 29, a citizen of India was arrested on January 29 in Tukwila, Washington. Singh is charged with “assault with sexual motivation”, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Seattle said in a release last week. Also read: '487 presumed Indians got final removal orders': MEA on US deportations The other individuals arrested are citizens of Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. All four will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. “Protecting our communities, and preventing further victimisation is of paramount importance to ICE throughout the Pacific Northwest,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle Field Office Director Drew Bostock. “These arrests reinforce the message that the presence of illegal criminal threats will not be tolerated.” President Donald Trump kicked off his second term in office with an ambitious immigration agenda, promising to deport millions of undocumented immigrants and seal off the US southern border. Also read: 'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle Since then, Trump administration officials have swiftly moved to strip temporary protections for migrants and delegate more authority to federal and state partners. More than 8,000 people have been arrested by federal immigration authorities since Trump's inauguration. Administration officials have not shared exactly how many undocumented immigrants they're aiming to arrest this year, but daily apprehensions have already surpassed last year's daily average under President Joe Biden, CNN reported. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian man arrested by US immigration authorities over sexual assault charges

As US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring people from updating the sex on their passports, Lisa Suhay took her daughter Mellow to a passport office, as they want her&nbsp; to leave America before it becomes unbearable for transgenders.&nbsp;
Mellow, who is 21 years old, was taken to a passport office in Norfolk, Virginia, where they live.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512" rel="dofollow">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
Trump signed an executive order, using a narrow definition of the sexes instead of a broader conception of gender. According to the order, a person is either a male or a female.&nbsp;
It also rejects the idea that someone can transition from the sex assigned at birth to another gender.&nbsp;
Mellow's family wants her to be able to leave the country if things become unbearable for transgender people in the US.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If the worst was to come to worst and things were to threaten my life,&rdquo; she said, &ldquo;I would have some way out.&rdquo;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-banning-transgender-from-female-sports-8694059" rel="dofollow"> Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports</a>
Mellow checked on the "male" box, even though that's different from her state-issued driver's license.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We had to swear an oath to the fact that the information that we presented was true, even if what we had to do was not truthful to ourselves,&rdquo; Mellow said. &ldquo;It was emotional because it was in a way lying to yourself.&rdquo;
Mellow's mother said she is worried that her daughter might not be granted a passport or that it could create legal problems if her documents don't match or because she swore to something where she was not true.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-transgender-people-us-military-executive-orders-8661366" rel="dofollow">Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?</a>
Following Trump's order, seven people filed a federal lawsuit challenging the State Department's refusal to issue passports with accurate sex designations.&nbsp;
The lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Massachusetts, and law firm Covington &amp; Burling LLP, on behalf of those seven people. The complaint was filed in the federal District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
Under the ensuing Passport Policy, within 24 hours, the State Department began holding some passports and other relevant documents, submitted by the transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people who had applied to update the sex designation on their US passports.&nbsp;
They further returned the documents and passports with their applications rejected and their newly-issued passport marked with their sex assigned at birth.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-deserve-this-jo-ellis-transgender-pilot-wrongly-named-in-washington-plane-crash-speaks-out-who-is-she-8682211" rel="dofollow">'I don&rsquo;t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH</a>
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve lived virtually my entire adult life as a man. Everyone in my personal and professional life knows me as a man, and any stranger on the street who encountered me would view me as a man,&rdquo; said Reid Solomon-Lane of North Adams, Massachusetts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I thought that 18 years after transitioning, I would be able to live my life in safety and ease. Now, as a married father of three, Trump&rsquo;s executive order and the ensuing passport policy have threatened that life of safety and ease. If my passport were to reflect a sex designation that is inconsistent with who I am, I would be forcibly outed every time I used my passport for travel or identification, causing potential risk to my safety and my family&rsquo;s safety," Reid said.&nbsp;
Earlier, the State Department permitted people to change the sex designation on their passports to be aligned with their gender identity.&nbsp;
However, since Trump's new order, the department publicly announced that applications to obtain a sex designation consistent with their gender identity rather than their sex assigned at birth have been "suspended".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump signed an executive order, using a narrow definition of the sexes instead of a broader conception of gender. As per the order, a person is either a male or a female. 

As US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring people from updating the sex on their passports, Lisa Suhay took her daughter Mellow to a passport office, as they want her to leave America before it becomes unbearable for transgenders. Mellow, who is 21 years old, was taken to a passport office in Norfolk, Virginia, where they live. Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports Trump signed an executive order, using a narrow definition of the sexes instead of a broader conception of gender. According to the order, a person is either a male or a female. It also rejects the idea that someone can transition from the sex assigned at birth to another gender. Mellow's family wants her to be able to leave the country if things become unbearable for transgender people in the US. “If the worst was to come to worst and things were to threaten my life,” she said, “I would have some way out.” Also read: Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports Mellow checked on the "male" box, even though that's different from her state-issued driver's license. “We had to swear an oath to the fact that the information that we presented was true, even if what we had to do was not truthful to ourselves,” Mellow said. “It was emotional because it was in a way lying to yourself.” Mellow's mother said she is worried that her daughter might not be granted a passport or that it could create legal problems if her documents don't match or because she swore to something where she was not true. Also read: Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines? Following Trump's order, seven people filed a federal lawsuit challenging the State Department's refusal to issue passports with accurate sex designations. The lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Massachusetts, and law firm Covington & Burling LLP, on behalf of those seven people. The complaint was filed in the federal District Court for the District of Massachusetts. Under the ensuing Passport Policy, within 24 hours, the State Department began holding some passports and other relevant documents, submitted by the transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people who had applied to update the sex designation on their US passports. They further returned the documents and passports with their applications rejected and their newly-issued passport marked with their sex assigned at birth. Also read: 'I don’t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH “I’ve lived virtually my entire adult life as a man. Everyone in my personal and professional life knows me as a man, and any stranger on the street who encountered me would view me as a man,” said Reid Solomon-Lane of North Adams, Massachusetts. “I thought that 18 years after transitioning, I would be able to live my life in safety and ease. Now, as a married father of three, Trump’s executive order and the ensuing passport policy have threatened that life of safety and ease. If my passport were to reflect a sex designation that is inconsistent with who I am, I would be forcibly outed every time I used my passport for travel or identification, causing potential risk to my safety and my family’s safety," Reid said. Earlier, the State Department permitted people to change the sex designation on their passports to be aligned with their gender identity. However, since Trump's new order, the department publicly announced that applications to obtain a sex designation consistent with their gender identity rather than their sex assigned at birth have been "suspended". (With inputs from agencies)

Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy

A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-in-a-poll-on-x-asks-if-he-should-rehire-doge-staffer-who-resigned-over-racist-tweets-8700501" rel="dofollow">Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets</a>
The payment system handles several domains, including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits, sending out trillions of dollars every year while containing an expansive network of Americans' personal and financial data.&nbsp;
According to the case filed in federal court in New York City, the Trump administration allegedly allowed Musk's team access to the Treasury Department's central payment system in violation of federal law.&nbsp;
The district judge, Engelmayer, was appointed by former President Barack Obama. He said that anyone prohibited from having access to the sensitive information since January 20 this year, must immediately destroy all copies of material downloaded from Treasury Department systems.&nbsp;
Engelmayer set a hearing for February 14.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/normalise-indian-hate-elon-musks-highly-trained-doge-employee-resigns-after-questions-on-racist-posts-online-8697917" rel="dofollow">'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online</a>
Earlier, the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit being filed.&nbsp;
Musk's DOGE was created to discover and eliminate what the Trump administration has considered wasteful government spending.&nbsp;
Notably, DOGE's access to Treasury records has triggered widespread concern among critics over the increasing power of Musk in Trump's administration, while supporters have cheered at the idea of reining in bloated government finances.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hints-at-leash-on-elon-musk-as-doge-ramps-up-government-purge-8690491" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
New York Attorney General Letitia James's office filed the lawsuit, saying DOGE's access to the Treasury Department's data raises security problems and the possibility of an illegal freeze in federal funds.&nbsp;
"This unelected group, led by the world's richest man, is not authorized to have this information, and they explicitly sought this unauthorized access to illegally block payments that millions of Americans rely on, payments for health care, child care, and other essential programs," James said in a video message on Friday.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072" rel="dofollow"> &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
The suit alleged that DOGE's access to the Treasury records could interfere with funding already appropriated by Congress, which would exceed the Treasury Department's statutory authority.&nbsp;
The case further argued that the DOGE access violates federal administrative law and the US Constitution's separation of powers doctrine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump. 

A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump. Also read: Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets The payment system handles several domains, including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits, sending out trillions of dollars every year while containing an expansive network of Americans' personal and financial data. According to the case filed in federal court in New York City, the Trump administration allegedly allowed Musk's team access to the Treasury Department's central payment system in violation of federal law. The district judge, Engelmayer, was appointed by former President Barack Obama. He said that anyone prohibited from having access to the sensitive information since January 20 this year, must immediately destroy all copies of material downloaded from Treasury Department systems. Engelmayer set a hearing for February 14. Also read: 'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online Earlier, the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit being filed. Musk's DOGE was created to discover and eliminate what the Trump administration has considered wasteful government spending. Notably, DOGE's access to Treasury records has triggered widespread concern among critics over the increasing power of Musk in Trump's administration, while supporters have cheered at the idea of reining in bloated government finances. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge New York Attorney General Letitia James's office filed the lawsuit, saying DOGE's access to the Treasury Department's data raises security problems and the possibility of an illegal freeze in federal funds. "This unelected group, led by the world's richest man, is not authorized to have this information, and they explicitly sought this unauthorized access to illegally block payments that millions of Americans rely on, payments for health care, child care, and other essential programs," James said in a video message on Friday. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark The suit alleged that DOGE's access to the Treasury records could interfere with funding already appropriated by Congress, which would exceed the Treasury Department's statutory authority. The case further argued that the DOGE access violates federal administrative law and the US Constitution's separation of powers doctrine. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data

US President Donald Trump meets Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, discussing energy exports, security, and trade. Trump announces record US natural gas exports to Japan, while both leaders agree to counter China’s regional influence.

Trump, Japan PM Ishiba strengthen ties with energy, security & trade deals

Over a dozen individuals have been apprehended attempting to cross into Canada, highlighting the dangers of the US-Canada border, particularly during the harsh winter season.&nbsp;
In Alberta, police recently stopped two groups trying to enter Canada illegally, including one group with five children who were inadequately prepared for the extreme cold, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -30C (-22F).
Also read | 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban
<h2 dir="ltr">Group bound for Alberta&nbsp;</h2>
Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland told reporters in Edmonton that nine people from Venezuela were found trudging through the snow and dragging suitcases. The group was bound for Alberta and made the journey in &ldquo;incredibly cold&rdquo; weather.&nbsp;
A second group, composed of six adults from Jordan, Sudan, Chad and Mauritius, was found in a forest near Manitoba&rsquo;s border with the US after an RCMP plane using thermal cameras detected them. Neither group had clothing suitable for the frigid conditions.
Also read | 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300
<h2 dir="ltr">Gujarat family froze to death on Canadian border</h2>
Moreland speculated that the people may have succumbed to a "heartbreaking situation" comparable to the freezing death of the Patel family, an Indian couple who died with their infant and 11-year-old near the border in 2022.&nbsp;
Later, in 2024, US authorities arrested an Indian-origin person in Chicago, a key suspect in a 2022 human trafficking case involving the death of the Patel family. Harshkumar Patel was taken into custody at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
Harshkumar was charged with the criminal offence of "transportation of illegal alien and conspiracy to bring and attempt to bring an illegal alien to the United States".
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Over a dozen people were detained while trying to cross into Canada, underscoring the perilous conditions at the US-Canada border, especially in winter's harsh grip.

Over a dozen individuals have been apprehended attempting to cross into Canada, highlighting the dangers of the US-Canada border, particularly during the harsh winter season. In Alberta, police recently stopped two groups trying to enter Canada illegally, including one group with five children who were inadequately prepared for the extreme cold, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -30C (-22F). Also read | 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban Group bound for Alberta Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland told reporters in Edmonton that nine people from Venezuela were found trudging through the snow and dragging suitcases. The group was bound for Alberta and made the journey in “incredibly cold” weather. A second group, composed of six adults from Jordan, Sudan, Chad and Mauritius, was found in a forest near Manitoba’s border with the US after an RCMP plane using thermal cameras detected them. Neither group had clothing suitable for the frigid conditions. Also read | 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300 Gujarat family froze to death on Canadian border Moreland speculated that the people may have succumbed to a "heartbreaking situation" comparable to the freezing death of the Patel family, an Indian couple who died with their infant and 11-year-old near the border in 2022. Later, in 2024, US authorities arrested an Indian-origin person in Chicago, a key suspect in a 2022 human trafficking case involving the death of the Patel family. Harshkumar Patel was taken into custody at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Harshkumar was charged with the criminal offence of "transportation of illegal alien and conspiracy to bring and attempt to bring an illegal alien to the United States". (With inputs from agencies)

Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that he would sign an executive order next week to undo efforts by former President Joe Biden to push for the use of paper straws instead of plastic straws.
Trump said that he would end the "ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws".
In a post on Truth Social, the US president said, "I will be signing an Executive Order next week ending the ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws, which don&rsquo;t work. BACK TO PLASTIC!."&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113963246096886557/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kamala-harris-divorce-doug-emhoff-plastic-ban-hypocrite-kamala-plstic-bags-8650853" rel="dofollow">'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban</a>
Biden announced a target to eliminate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/single-use-plastics" rel="dofollow">single-use plastic</a> items like drinking straws by 2035 in government departments.&nbsp;
This move is the latest on environmental issues by the Republican president. Notably, Trump pulled out of the Paris climate change agreement soon after his inauguration for a second term.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/increase-of-plastic-can-cause-autism-heres-what-the-latest-study-determined-749551" rel="dofollow">Increase of plastic can cause autism? Here&rsquo;s what the latest study determined</a>
<h2>Musk reacts</h2>
American billionaire Elon Musk also shared Trump's Truth Social post, calling him the "greatest President ever".&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Greatest President ever! <a href="https://t.co/U8BuPVwSwd">pic.twitter.com/U8BuPVwSwd</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1887886625318818292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier during a campaign rally for the 2020 elections, Trump had shown his criticism of the growing trend of paper drinking straws.&nbsp;
"They want to ban straws. Has anyone tried those paper straws? They're not working too good," he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-ban-single-use-plastics-in-cafes-and-restaurants-by-2030-696622" rel="dofollow">EU to ban single-use plastic in cafes and restaurants by 2030</a>
"It disintegrates as you drink it, and if you have a nice tie like this tie, you've got no choice," Trump added.&nbsp;
Moreover, his campaign team has also sold branded plastic straws with the slogan "Liberal paper straws don't work."
In 2019, Trump's campaign sold red plastic straws labelled with &ldquo;Trump&rdquo; as an alternative to the &ldquo;liberal&rdquo; paper straws, which he claimed were ineffective.&nbsp;
Notably, Trump is expected to place over 160 environmental justice employees on paid leave as part of broader government restructuring efforts.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Former US President Joe Biden announced a target to eliminate single-use plastic utensils like drinking straws by 2035 in government departments. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that he would sign an executive order next week to undo efforts by former President Joe Biden to push for the use of paper straws instead of plastic straws. Trump said that he would end the "ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws". In a post on Truth Social, the US president said, "I will be signing an Executive Order next week ending the ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws, which don’t work. BACK TO PLASTIC!." Also read: 'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban Biden announced a target to eliminate single-use plastic items like drinking straws by 2035 in government departments. This move is the latest on environmental issues by the Republican president. Notably, Trump pulled out of the Paris climate change agreement soon after his inauguration for a second term. Also read: Increase of plastic can cause autism? Here’s what the latest study determined Musk reacts American billionaire Elon Musk also shared Trump's Truth Social post, calling him the "greatest President ever". Greatest President ever! pic.twitter.com/U8BuPVwSwd — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 7, 2025 Earlier during a campaign rally for the 2020 elections, Trump had shown his criticism of the growing trend of paper drinking straws. "They want to ban straws. Has anyone tried those paper straws? They're not working too good," he said. Also read: EU to ban single-use plastic in cafes and restaurants by 2030 "It disintegrates as you drink it, and if you have a nice tie like this tie, you've got no choice," Trump added. Moreover, his campaign team has also sold branded plastic straws with the slogan "Liberal paper straws don't work." In 2019, Trump's campaign sold red plastic straws labelled with “Trump” as an alternative to the “liberal” paper straws, which he claimed were ineffective. Notably, Trump is expected to place over 160 environmental justice employees on paid leave as part of broader government restructuring efforts. (With inputs from agencies)

'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump to sign executive order to end Biden's push for paper straws

The U.S. is witnessing a rise in aviation disasters, with at least six air tragedies reported in the past 10 days, including two in the last 24 hours. While air travel is still considered safe, these back-to-back incidents have reignited concerns about aviation risks and have induced anxiety among many air travelers. Watch in for more details!

US witnesses 6 air tragedies in 10 days

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is heading to the US next week. What golden gift will he take for US President Donald Trump?

What golden gift should Modi take for Trump?

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that the USAID is driving the "radical left" crazy but they can not do anything about it. He stressed that the "corruption" is at levels rarely seen before".&nbsp;
Trump took to Truth Social and posted, "USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-condoms-worth-15mn-for-taliban-to-1mn-for-lgbtq-propaganda-shocking-spending-by-usaid-under-biden-8698860" rel="dofollow">From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden</a>
He further stressed to "close it down".&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113963085497636545/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid Trump's move.&nbsp;
Some of the essential staff are already set to be placed on administration leave at midnight on Friday. According to an online notice, a plan is being prepared for return travel and the termination of non-essential contractors.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-places-usaid-global-staff-on-leave-orders-them-to-return-home-8694295" rel="dofollow">Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home</a>
Amid this cut on USAID, hundreds of programmes have already been frozen in countries worldwide.&nbsp;
Moreover, the US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging &ldquo;USAID is being run by radical lunatics", vowing he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. It included allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban for funding LGBTQ propaganda.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
The critics reacted to the foreign aid cuts, saying that it could have dire consequences for global aid efforts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s outrageous,&rdquo; said J Brian Atwood, who led USAID for over six years. He warned that gutting the agency would effectively dismantle a program that has saved millions of lives. &ldquo;A lot of people will not survive,&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790" rel="dofollow">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid US President Donald Trump's move. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that the USAID is driving the "radical left" crazy but they can not do anything about it. He stressed that the "corruption" is at levels rarely seen before". Trump took to Truth Social and posted, "USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable." Also read: From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden He further stressed to "close it down". The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid Trump's move. Some of the essential staff are already set to be placed on administration leave at midnight on Friday. According to an online notice, a plan is being prepared for return travel and the termination of non-essential contractors. Also read: Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home Amid this cut on USAID, hundreds of programmes have already been frozen in countries worldwide. Moreover, the US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging “USAID is being run by radical lunatics", vowing he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency. Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. It included allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban for funding LGBTQ propaganda. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director The critics reacted to the foreign aid cuts, saying that it could have dire consequences for global aid efforts. “That’s outrageous,” said J Brian Atwood, who led USAID for over six years. He warned that gutting the agency would effectively dismantle a program that has saved millions of lives. “A lot of people will not survive,” Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk (With inputs from agencies)

'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300

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