According to a COVID antibody survey by US CDC, 58% of US population had COVID by February. It also suggest that majority of the cases remained undetected.

58% of US population had COVID by February says COVID antibody survey by US CDC

In a latest faceoff between US & China over Taiwan strait, US' missile destroyer sailed through Taiwan strait. US has now clarified on warship sailing.

US' missile destroyer sailed through Taiwan strait, US clarifies on warship sailing

The World's loneliest home is up for sale. The house has one bedroom, a tiny porch, and no bathroom. The ask price is $339,000. Here's a tour.

Gravitas: On Sale: The World's loneliest home

Joe Biden said "India has its own problems" while talking about the ideological tussle between autocracies and the alliance of democracies. What problem is Biden talking about? How should India see this comment? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Biden says "India has its own problems"

North Korea’s founding anniversary parade displays ICBM and vows to expand its nuclear arsenal

A man has been sentenced to life in jail on Friday for sexually abusing children, filming the act and then, distributing the footage on the dark web, the prosecutors said. &nbsp;

The 28-year-old accused, who is from Fresno, belonged to a child exploitation ring in California. The members have abused more than 20 children in this way, media reports said. &nbsp;

The court has termed the abuse as ‘evil’. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-dies-of-acute-hepatitis-as-12-countries-report-increase-in-cases-473380" hreflang="en">Child dies of acute hepatitis as 12 countries report increase in cases</a>

In Los Angeles federal court, Judge André Birotte Jr said that what John Richard Brinson Jr did to those children was 'evil’. "I don't know how else to say it," Birotte said. &nbsp;

In a statement, US Attorney Tracy L Wilkison said, “The life sentence imposed in this case is warranted by the defendant's callous and violent abuse of children, some of whom were filmed while screaming in pain. The child exploitation enterprise impacted more than 20 victims - children who were sexually assaulted, sometimes repeatedly, solely for the pleasure of this defendant and his cohorts." &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;United States airline bookings roar back

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The accused had also pleaded guilty earlier to one count of engaging in child exploitation ring and four counts of child pornography’s production. Each count had represented a different victim. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A man has been sentenced to life in jail on Friday for sexually abusing children, filming the act and then, distributing the footage on the dark web, the prosecutors said.

A man has been sentenced to life in jail on Friday for sexually abusing children, filming the act and then, distributing the footage on the dark web, the prosecutors said. The 28-year-old accused, who is from Fresno, belonged to a child exploitation ring in California. The members have abused more than 20 children in this way, media reports said. The court has termed the abuse as ‘evil’. Also Read: Child dies of acute hepatitis as 12 countries report increase in cases In Los Angeles federal court, Judge André Birotte Jr said that what John Richard Brinson Jr did to those children was 'evil’. "I don't know how else to say it," Birotte said. In a statement, US Attorney Tracy L Wilkison said, “The life sentence imposed in this case is warranted by the defendant's callous and violent abuse of children, some of whom were filmed while screaming in pain. The child exploitation enterprise impacted more than 20 victims - children who were sexually assaulted, sometimes repeatedly, solely for the pleasure of this defendant and his cohorts." Watch: United States airline bookings roar back × The accused had also pleaded guilty earlier to one count of engaging in child exploitation ring and four counts of child pornography’s production. Each count had represented a different victim. (With inputs from agencies)

For 'evil' child sex abuse, US judge sends 28-year-old man to jail for life  

The US secretaries are in Kyiv amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. President Zelensky met with Blinken and Austin in Kyiv as US allocates $700 million of military aid.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: US says 'Ukraine can win this war'

Johnny Depp is suing his ex-wife Amber Heard for $50 million. Here are some shocking accusations made during the case. The case is currently ongoing in the US.

Johnny Depp, Amber Heard case: Shocking accusations about actors

US allocates $700 MN of military aid as Zelensky meets Blinken, Austin in Kyiv

Ukraine war: Russia's 'special military operation' enters third month

In Monterey Bay area of the US, a new rare species of crown jellyfish has been found by scientists. &nbsp;&nbsp;

What is special about it is that it looks like a scarlet alien saucer. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The new species, which has blood red colour, is called Atolla reynoldsi. It measures around 5 inches (13 centimeters) in diameter, reports said.

“This jellyfish can also have 26 to 39 tentacles," said researchers with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). This species has a deep groove around its central bell, which looks like a domed head with a frilly red crown. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-natures-miracle-thought-to-be-extinct-flower-bearing-plant-gasteranthus-extinctus-reemerges-471649" hreflang="en">Miracle of nature? ‘Gasteranthus extinctus’, plant once thought extinct, reemerges</a>

Atolla reynoldsi seems to be largest of the known species of the Atolla genus, the scientists said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It also lacks a single elongate tentacle, which is present in other species of crown jellyfish. &nbsp;

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Meet Atolla reynoldsi, a new species of deep-sea crown jelly discovered in Monterey Bay. 
 
This species honors Jeff Reynolds, <a href="https://twitter.com/MontereyAq?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MontereyAq</a>’s first volunteer, and celebrates the contributions of Aquarium volunteers to inspiring ocean conservation. Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/44zCYhNTCK">https://t.co/44zCYhNTCK</a> <a href="https://t.co/d2fc2AK6HF">pic.twitter.com/d2fc2AK6HF</a>
— MBARI (@MBARI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/MBARI_News/status/1516446470924234755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Researchers have identified this species in a new study, which was published in the journal ‘Animals’ last month. &nbsp;

It has been spotted in ‘sunless’ region of Monterey Bay at depths of 3,323 to 10,463 feet (1,013 to 3,189 m) till now. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Deadly coral disease grips Florida coast, efforts on to restore damaged reef

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In a statement, George Matsumoto, senior education and research specialist at MBARI and lead author of the study, said, "These remarkable new jellies underscore how much we still have to learn about the deep sea. On just about every dive into the depths of Monterey Bay, we learn something new." &nbsp;

This species was spotted while analysing thousands of hours of footage, which was taken in Monterey Bay's midnight zone from April 2006 to June 2021. &nbsp;

After much research, the scientists found that the species is "molecularly and morphologically distinct" from other species in the genus. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In Monterey Bay area of the US, a new rare species of crown jellyfish has been found by scientists. What is special about it is that it looks like a scarlet alien saucer.

In Monterey Bay area of the US, a new rare species of crown jellyfish has been found by scientists. What is special about it is that it looks like a scarlet alien saucer. The new species, which has blood red colour, is called Atolla reynoldsi. It measures around 5 inches (13 centimeters) in diameter, reports said. “This jellyfish can also have 26 to 39 tentacles," said researchers with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). This species has a deep groove around its central bell, which looks like a domed head with a frilly red crown. Also Read: Miracle of nature? ‘Gasteranthus extinctus’, plant once thought extinct, reemerges Atolla reynoldsi seems to be largest of the known species of the Atolla genus, the scientists said. It also lacks a single elongate tentacle, which is present in other species of crown jellyfish. Meet Atolla reynoldsi, a new species of deep-sea crown jelly discovered in Monterey Bay. This species honors Jeff Reynolds, @MontereyAq’s first volunteer, and celebrates the contributions of Aquarium volunteers to inspiring ocean conservation. Learn more: https://t.co/44zCYhNTCK pic.twitter.com/d2fc2AK6HF — MBARI (@MBARI_News) April 19, 2022 × Researchers have identified this species in a new study, which was published in the journal ‘Animals’ last month. It has been spotted in ‘sunless’ region of Monterey Bay at depths of 3,323 to 10,463 feet (1,013 to 3,189 m) till now. Watch: Deadly coral disease grips Florida coast, efforts on to restore damaged reef × In a statement, George Matsumoto, senior education and research specialist at MBARI and lead author of the study, said, "These remarkable new jellies underscore how much we still have to learn about the deep sea. On just about every dive into the depths of Monterey Bay, we learn something new." This species was spotted while analysing thousands of hours of footage, which was taken in Monterey Bay's midnight zone from April 2006 to June 2021. After much research, the scientists found that the species is "molecularly and morphologically distinct" from other species in the genus. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: New rare species of crown jellyfish found in Monterey Bay by scientists in US

Capitol hill riots under former President Donald Trump are still under investigation. Meanwhile, a new explosive has come to light that puts McCarthy in a tough spot.

Capitol Hill Riots: An explosive audio clip puts McCarthy in a tough spot

Amid the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, a group of performers from Ukraine's theatre and circus academy have found a new platform and new means to earn a living in the US. But their lives have been riddled with anxiety, constant worry and guilt of having to leave their family members back in Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian dancers find comfort in US, fight anxiety with dance routines

Another incidence of gun violence has been reported in the US where at least 4 people have been shot including a child near a college preparatory school in Washington DC. According to reports that are emerging, the suspect has been found dead after the police launched a massive manhunt

Washington DC shootout: Another shooting reported in US, 4 injured in the incident

According to DC Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee, the suspect in the&nbsp;shooting in northwest Washington, DC died on Friday afternoon, AFP reported.

Contee stated that the police is not looking at any other&nbsp;suspect. He further added that the officers discovered six firearms inside the residential apartment of the suspect, including various long guns, many rounds of ammunition and handguns as well.

After a day-long manhunt, the suspect was caught and charged with terror-related offences.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-court-hands-us-citizen-death-sentence-for-murder-472842">Chinese court hands US citizen death sentence for murder</a>

Contee at a news conference on Friday night said,"The suspect that we believe is responsible for this is now deceased."

Watch |&nbsp;US Capitol Riots: Kevin McCarthy's audio clip in aftermath of riots puts him in a tough spot

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One of the four members wounded was a retired member of the DC department. As per the assistant chief Emerman who later gave an update on the story from police source indicated that two individuals had been shot, saying a man and woman are&nbsp;stable but yet critical conditions. A slight gunshot has also wounded a minor&nbsp;girl who is also being treated.

Emerman added at a press conference that the&nbsp;fourth victim who is a woman in her mid-60s was grazed by a bullet but did not go to a hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-state-department-says-ilhan-omar-is-not-visiting-pakistan-on-government-sponsored-travel-473008">US State Department says Ilhan Omar is not visiting Pakistan on government sponsored travel</a>

A kid who lives near the shooting site, Samuel Nicolido in conversation with CNN said that he approximately heard 20 rounds.

Nicolo recounted, “"It was like five shots and then stopped for like, one minute, and then four more, five more, and then again," Nicolido said. "I saw cops with shields everywhere and then they were saying -- they were telling us to stay at home. Don't leave. So yeah, it was scary." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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According to DC Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee, the suspect in the shooting in northwest Washington, DC died on Friday afternoon, AFP reported.

According to DC Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee, the suspect in the shooting in northwest Washington, DC died on Friday afternoon, AFP reported. Contee stated that the police is not looking at any other suspect. He further added that the officers discovered six firearms inside the residential apartment of the suspect, including various long guns, many rounds of ammunition and handguns as well. After a day-long manhunt, the suspect was caught and charged with terror-related offences. Also read | Chinese court hands US citizen death sentence for murder Contee at a news conference on Friday night said,"The suspect that we believe is responsible for this is now deceased." Watch | US Capitol Riots: Kevin McCarthy's audio clip in aftermath of riots puts him in a tough spot One of the four members wounded was a retired member of the DC department. As per the assistant chief Emerman who later gave an update on the story from police source indicated that two individuals had been shot, saying a man and woman are stable but yet critical conditions. A slight gunshot has also wounded a minor girl who is also being treated. Emerman added at a press conference that the fourth victim who is a woman in her mid-60s was grazed by a bullet but did not go to a hospital. Also read | US State Department says Ilhan Omar is not visiting Pakistan on government sponsored travel A kid who lives near the shooting site, Samuel Nicolido in conversation with CNN said that he approximately heard 20 rounds. Nicolo recounted, “"It was like five shots and then stopped for like, one minute, and then four more, five more, and then again," Nicolido said. "I saw cops with shields everywhere and then they were saying -- they were telling us to stay at home. Don't leave. So yeah, it was scary." (With inputs from agencies)

Police confirms death of suspect involved in Washington DC shooting

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's ongoing visit to Pakistan is not sponsored by the US government, a top State Department official has said, hours after India condemned her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying her travel to the region violated its territorial integrity and reflected her "narrow-minded" politics.

The Somali-origin Congresswoman from Minnesota was flown to the Line of Control (LoC) in the Chakothi sector, where she was briefed on the situation before and after the fresh understanding between the Armies of Pakistan and India to respect the 2003 ceasefire agreement, according to official sources in Islamabad.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-condemns-visit-of-us-congresswoman-ilhan-omar-to-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-472702">India condemns visit of US congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir</a>

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price told reporters at his daily news conference on Thursday that "As I understand it, Representative Omar is not visiting Pakistan on US government sponsored travel.

At a media briefing in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi criticised Omar for visiting the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"We have noted that US Representative Ilhan Omar has visited a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir that is currently illegally occupied by Pakistan.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan

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"If such a politician wishes to practice her narrow-minded politics at home, that may be her business. But violating our territorial integrity and sovereignty in its pursuit makes it ours. This visit is condemnable, the spokesperson said on Thursday.

Omar is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan.

In Islamabad, she met President Arif Alvi, new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and ousted prime minister Imran Khan and others. She also met president of PoK Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry and discussed the Kashmir issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-carrying-skydivers-triggers-false-alarm-police-evacuate-us-capitol-over-probable-threat-472540">Army plane carrying army skydivers triggers false alarm, police evacuate US Capitol over ‘probable threat’</a>

India and Pakistan signed a ceasefire agreement in 2003, but it has hardly been followed in letter and spirit over the past several years with more violations than observance of the pact.

In February last year, the two countries issued a joint statement in which they agreed to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the LoC and other sectors.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's ongoing visit to Pakistan is not sponsored by the US government, a top State Department official has said, hours after India condemned her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying her travel to the region violated its territorial integrity and reflected her "narrow-minded" politics.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's ongoing visit to Pakistan is not sponsored by the US government, a top State Department official has said, hours after India condemned her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying her travel to the region violated its territorial integrity and reflected her "narrow-minded" politics. The Somali-origin Congresswoman from Minnesota was flown to the Line of Control (LoC) in the Chakothi sector, where she was briefed on the situation before and after the fresh understanding between the Armies of Pakistan and India to respect the 2003 ceasefire agreement, according to official sources in Islamabad. Also read | India condemns visit of US congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price told reporters at his daily news conference on Thursday that "As I understand it, Representative Omar is not visiting Pakistan on US government sponsored travel. At a media briefing in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi criticised Omar for visiting the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). "We have noted that US Representative Ilhan Omar has visited a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir that is currently illegally occupied by Pakistan. Watch | Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan "If such a politician wishes to practice her narrow-minded politics at home, that may be her business. But violating our territorial integrity and sovereignty in its pursuit makes it ours. This visit is condemnable, the spokesperson said on Thursday. Omar is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan. In Islamabad, she met President Arif Alvi, new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and ousted prime minister Imran Khan and others. She also met president of PoK Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry and discussed the Kashmir issue. Also read | Army plane carrying army skydivers triggers false alarm, police evacuate US Capitol over ‘probable threat’ India and Pakistan signed a ceasefire agreement in 2003, but it has hardly been followed in letter and spirit over the past several years with more violations than observance of the pact. In February last year, the two countries issued a joint statement in which they agreed to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the LoC and other sectors.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's Pak visit not sponsored by US governement: Official

A senior US delegation has arrived in the Solomon Islands today. The United States intends to express its concern over China's intentions in the pacific islands.

The Pacific power struggle: US officials land in Solomon Island

In Pics: Ex-Honduran prez gets extradited to US over cocaine-importation conspiracy charges

A Chinese court sentenced a US citizen to death on Thursday over the intentional&nbsp;homicide&nbsp;of his girlfriend, an official notice said.

The court found that Shadeed Abdulmateen had stabbed the 21-year-old woman in her face and neck multiple times last year when they met to talk after disagreements over their relationship.

Shadeed and the woman surnamed Chen started dating after they met in 2019 but she subsequently wanted to break up, according to the Ningbo Intermediate People's Court.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-koreas-making-efforts-to-improve-relations-ex-honduran-prez-extradited-to-us-and-more-472836">Morning news brief: Koreas making efforts to improve relations, ex-Honduran prez extradited to US and more</a>

"From mid to late May 2021, Chen proposed breaking up many times, but Shadeed did not agree and made verbal threats to her," the court said on Thursday.

The two met in June 2021 near a bus stop in Ningbo, where Shadeed turned up with a folding knife and stabbed her, the notice said, adding that he was found guilty of intentional&nbsp;homicide.

"Shadeed premediated a revenge killing, stabbing and cutting Chen's face and neck multiple times, causing Chen's death," the court said.

Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden announces $800 million military aid to Ukraine

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The US Embassy did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Human rights advocates say China executes more prisoners every year than any other country, but executions of Westerners are rare.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-is-claims-mazar-e-sharif-blast-elon-musk-latest-more-news-472784">Top 10 world news: IS claims Mazar-e-Sharif blast, Elon Musk latest, more news</a>

The most recent case involving the holder of a passport from a Western country is believed to be that of Akmal Shaikh, a British citizen who was executed in 2009 for heroin trafficking, according to state news agency Xinhua.

A Chinese court sentenced a US citizen to death on Thursday over the intentional homicide of his girlfriend, an official notice said. The court found that Shadeed Abdulmateen had stabbed the 21-year-old woman in her face and neck multiple times last year when they met to talk after disagreements over their relationship.

A Chinese court sentenced a US citizen to death on Thursday over the intentional homicide of his girlfriend, an official notice said. The court found that Shadeed Abdulmateen had stabbed the 21-year-old woman in her face and neck multiple times last year when they met to talk after disagreements over their relationship. Shadeed and the woman surnamed Chen started dating after they met in 2019 but she subsequently wanted to break up, according to the Ningbo Intermediate People's Court. Also read | Morning news brief: Koreas making efforts to improve relations, ex-Honduran prez extradited to US and more "From mid to late May 2021, Chen proposed breaking up many times, but Shadeed did not agree and made verbal threats to her," the court said on Thursday. The two met in June 2021 near a bus stop in Ningbo, where Shadeed turned up with a folding knife and stabbed her, the notice said, adding that he was found guilty of intentional homicide. "Shadeed premediated a revenge killing, stabbing and cutting Chen's face and neck multiple times, causing Chen's death," the court said. Watch | US President Joe Biden announces $800 million military aid to Ukraine The US Embassy did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Human rights advocates say China executes more prisoners every year than any other country, but executions of Westerners are rare. Also read | Top 10 world news: IS claims Mazar-e-Sharif blast, Elon Musk latest, more news The most recent case involving the holder of a passport from a Western country is believed to be that of Akmal Shaikh, a British citizen who was executed in 2009 for heroin trafficking, according to state news agency Xinhua.

Chinese court hands US citizen death sentence for murder

Florida's legislature scrapped&nbsp;Disney's self-governing&nbsp;status&nbsp;in its Orlando theme park on Thursday, in a move widely seen as retaliation in a bitter row over what has become known as the "Don't Say Gay" law.

The bill, which is expected to be signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, is the latest feint in a US&nbsp;culture&nbsp;war&nbsp;undertaken by the conservative presidential hopeful that has left&nbsp;Disney&nbsp;floundering.

"If&nbsp;Disney&nbsp;wants to pick a fight, they chose the wrong guy," DeSantis wrote in a recent email to raise funds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-governor-desantis-criticises-woke-disney-claims-it-has-cosy-ties-with-communist-china-461898">Florida governor DeSantis criticises 'woke' Disney, claims it has cozy ties with China</a>

The trouble for the entertainment behemoth began in March, when the state government passed a law banning school lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity for small children.

The law -- swiftly dubbed "Don't Say Gay" -- was part of a broader cultural battle that the Republican Party is waging as midterm elections in November approach.

Republicans are taking aim at news media, companies and Democratic politicians they accuse of trying to impose progressive ideology on others.

Disney&nbsp;initially hesitated to take a stand on "Don't Say Gay," which will affect kids in kindergarten through third grade, when they are eight or nine years old.

But the company's silence prompted an angry backlash by some of their 75,000 employees and LGBT rights groups.

CEO Bob Chapek then slammed the law and halted all of&nbsp;Disney's political donations in&nbsp;Florida.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Minnie Mouse gets a makeover

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That irked DeSantis, an ambitious Republican who is thought to be considering a run for the White House in 2024.

This week DeSantis asked the state's congress to eliminate a statute that allows&nbsp;Disney&nbsp;to act as a local government in Orlando, where it has its theme park.&nbsp;

On Thursday the bill passed, starting a countdown clock for&nbsp;Disney's&nbsp;special&nbsp;arrangement, which is called the Reedy Creek Improvement District. It is set to be dissolved in June, 2023.

A guest in&nbsp;Florida

"Disney&nbsp;is a guest in&nbsp;Florida. Today we remind them," Randy Fine, a Republican lawmaker leading the drive against&nbsp;Disney, tweeted on Tuesday.

US Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican from&nbsp;Florida, said the company observes a double standard.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/disney-suspends-political-giving-in-florida-after-dont-say-gay-bill-outrage-461511">Disney suspends political giving in Florida after 'Don't say gay' bill outrage</a>

"Disney&nbsp;doesn't say a word about the dictatorship in China because it would cost them billions of $'s," he tweeted. "But they have no problem using their corporate power to lie about laws passed by democratically elected legislators in&nbsp;Florida."

The Reedy Creek Improvement District was created by&nbsp;Florida's congress in 1967 to facilitate the construction of&nbsp;Disney&nbsp;World in Orlando.

It is about 38 square miles (100 square kilometers) and includes two cities and land in Orange and Osceola counties, in central&nbsp;Florida.

Disney&nbsp;runs the district as if it were a local government, including collecting taxes and guaranteeing services such as garbage collection and water treatment.

The decision to scrap the&nbsp;special&nbsp;district has raised doubts about the future of the land.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-officially-bans-lgbt-conversion-therapy-makes-it-a-punishable-offence-443761">Canada officially bans LGBT conversion therapy, makes it a punishable offence</a>

Under&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;law, if the&nbsp;special&nbsp;district is in fact dissolved, its assets and debts would be transferred to local governments that surround the area.

"Removing district could transfer $2 Billion debt from&nbsp;Disney&nbsp;to taxpayers," state Democratic senator Linda Stewart tweeted Wednesday.

Florida's legislature scrapped Disney's self-governing status in its Orlando theme park on Thursday, in a move widely seen as retaliation in a bitter row over what has become known as the "Don't Say Gay" law.

Florida's legislature scrapped Disney's self-governing status in its Orlando theme park on Thursday, in a move widely seen as retaliation in a bitter row over what has become known as the "Don't Say Gay" law. The bill, which is expected to be signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, is the latest feint in a US culture war undertaken by the conservative presidential hopeful that has left Disney floundering. "If Disney wants to pick a fight, they chose the wrong guy," DeSantis wrote in a recent email to raise funds. Also read | Florida governor DeSantis criticises 'woke' Disney, claims it has cozy ties with China The trouble for the entertainment behemoth began in March, when the state government passed a law banning school lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity for small children. The law -- swiftly dubbed "Don't Say Gay" -- was part of a broader cultural battle that the Republican Party is waging as midterm elections in November approach. Republicans are taking aim at news media, companies and Democratic politicians they accuse of trying to impose progressive ideology on others. Disney initially hesitated to take a stand on "Don't Say Gay," which will affect kids in kindergarten through third grade, when they are eight or nine years old. But the company's silence prompted an angry backlash by some of their 75,000 employees and LGBT rights groups. CEO Bob Chapek then slammed the law and halted all of Disney's political donations in Florida. Watch | Gravitas: Minnie Mouse gets a makeover That irked DeSantis, an ambitious Republican who is thought to be considering a run for the White House in 2024. This week DeSantis asked the state's congress to eliminate a statute that allows Disney to act as a local government in Orlando, where it has its theme park. On Thursday the bill passed, starting a countdown clock for Disney's special arrangement, which is called the Reedy Creek Improvement District. It is set to be dissolved in June, 2023. A guest in Florida "Disney is a guest in Florida. Today we remind them," Randy Fine, a Republican lawmaker leading the drive against Disney, tweeted on Tuesday. US Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican from Florida, said the company observes a double standard. Also read | Disney suspends political giving in Florida after 'Don't say gay' bill outrage "Disney doesn't say a word about the dictatorship in China because it would cost them billions of $'s," he tweeted. "But they have no problem using their corporate power to lie about laws passed by democratically elected legislators in Florida." The Reedy Creek Improvement District was created by Florida's congress in 1967 to facilitate the construction of Disney World in Orlando. It is about 38 square miles (100 square kilometers) and includes two cities and land in Orange and Osceola counties, in central Florida. Disney runs the district as if it were a local government, including collecting taxes and guaranteeing services such as garbage collection and water treatment. The decision to scrap the special district has raised doubts about the future of the land. Also read | Canada officially bans LGBT conversion therapy, makes it a punishable offence Under Florida law, if the special district is in fact dissolved, its assets and debts would be transferred to local governments that surround the area. "Removing district could transfer $2 Billion debt from Disney to taxpayers," state Democratic senator Linda Stewart tweeted Wednesday.

"Don't Say Gay" law: Florida ends Disney's special status as culture war flares

Some stores in Washington, DC are handing out a complimentary bag of Marijuana with each purchase. WION tells you more in this report.

Weed given as gifts in Washington DC's Cannabis stores

As per a review of national police violence data, police in the United States have killed nearly 600 people during the traffic encounters since 2017, with encounters increasing this year.

Following the police killing of Patrick Lyoya, a black Michigan man, earlier this month, advocates have increased their drive to prevent these lethal stops and remove officers from traffic enforcement. Lyoya death that made headlines and prompted for cries for change. The police encounters are now closely scrutinised more closely after Lyoya case on April 4, The Guardian reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-did-donald-trump-really-walk-out-of-explosive-interview-with-piers-morgan-heres-the-truth-472742">Watch: Did Donald Trump really walk out of explosive interview with Piers Morgan. Here's the truth</a>

According to the recent statistics collected by the Mapping Police Violence, a non-profit research group, claims that armed police shouldn’t be involved in many of such situations and encounters with police during traffic, particularly minor offences, which disproportionately hurt people of colour.

According to the data, there were 97 fatal traffic stops in the year 2017, 114 in 2018, 117 in 2019, 119 in 2020, 117 in 2021 and 25 till April 2022. The group also claims responsibility for traffic offences that account for nearly 10 per cent of the 1,100 people killed each year by the police, as reported by The Guardian.

A data scientist and policy analyst who founded the Mapping Police Violence group said, "We often see the most extreme examples on the news, but this is something that happens so frequently."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-congresswoman-ilhan-omar-to-visit-pakistan-472257/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The group keeps track of killings reported by the government and media, classifying them as traffic cases if the interaction began with a regular traffic check, and if the person is pulled for another reason, it is not considered a traffic violation.

According to the data collected, black drivers make up only 13 per cent are being accounted for 28 per cent of those murdered in traffic stops. Brown and black drivers are most likely to be stopped, searched, and even exposed to force.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-condemns-visit-of-us-congresswoman-ilhan-omar-to-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-472702">&nbsp;India condemns visit of US congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir</a>

The New York Times recorded more than 400 cases in which the police pulled over and killed unarmed motorists who were not being pursued for a violent crime. Since the assassination of George Floyd, municipal governments across the United States have adopted several changes aimed at limiting traffic stops and unnecessary confrontations. 
&nbsp;

As per a review of national police violence data, police in the United States have killed nearly 600 people during the traffic encounters since 2017, with encounters increasing this year.

As per a review of national police violence data, police in the United States have killed nearly 600 people during the traffic encounters since 2017, with encounters increasing this year. Following the police killing of Patrick Lyoya, a black Michigan man, earlier this month, advocates have increased their drive to prevent these lethal stops and remove officers from traffic enforcement. Lyoya death that made headlines and prompted for cries for change. The police encounters are now closely scrutinised more closely after Lyoya case on April 4, The Guardian reported. Also read | Watch: Did Donald Trump really walk out of explosive interview with Piers Morgan. Here's the truth According to the recent statistics collected by the Mapping Police Violence, a non-profit research group, claims that armed police shouldn’t be involved in many of such situations and encounters with police during traffic, particularly minor offences, which disproportionately hurt people of colour. According to the data, there were 97 fatal traffic stops in the year 2017, 114 in 2018, 117 in 2019, 119 in 2020, 117 in 2021 and 25 till April 2022. The group also claims responsibility for traffic offences that account for nearly 10 per cent of the 1,100 people killed each year by the police, as reported by The Guardian. A data scientist and policy analyst who founded the Mapping Police Violence group said, "We often see the most extreme examples on the news, but this is something that happens so frequently." Watch | Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan The group keeps track of killings reported by the government and media, classifying them as traffic cases if the interaction began with a regular traffic check, and if the person is pulled for another reason, it is not considered a traffic violation. According to the data collected, black drivers make up only 13 per cent are being accounted for 28 per cent of those murdered in traffic stops. Brown and black drivers are most likely to be stopped, searched, and even exposed to force. Also read | India condemns visit of US congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir The New York Times recorded more than 400 cases in which the police pulled over and killed unarmed motorists who were not being pursued for a violent crime. Since the assassination of George Floyd, municipal governments across the United States have adopted several changes aimed at limiting traffic stops and unnecessary confrontations.

US police nearly killed 600 people since 2017 during traffic stops: Reports

White House said on Tuesday (April 19) that it is concerned about lack of transparency surrounding China's reported security agreement with the Solomon Islands. White House has called it to be part of pattern of Beijing offering 'shadowy' deals to smaller countries.

Earlier, China said that it had signed a security deal with Solomon Islands. This has drawn attention of US allies Australia and New Zealand. There are concerns about growing Chinese influence in a region traditionally under their sway.

A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said in a statement that US&nbsp;officials would raise the issue with the Solomon Islands on a planned visit to the Pacific Island country this week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-and-solomon-islands-ink-controversial-security-pact-472142">China and Solomon Islands ink controversial security pact</a>

"We are concerned by the lack of transparency and unspecified nature of this agreement, which follows a pattern of China offering shadowy, vague deals with little regional consultation in fishing, resource management, development assistance and now security practices," the official said.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters on Tuesday: "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently."

The spokesperson did not specify when or where the signing took place.

A draft version of the agreement leaked last month rattled Western governments, with provisions allowing for Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation.

According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the Solomon Islands' request to maintain "social order".

White House said on Tuesday (April 19) that it is concerned about lack of transparency surrounding China's reported security agreement with the Solomon Islands. White House has called it to be part of pattern of Beijing offering 'shadowy' deals to smaller countries.

White House said on Tuesday (April 19) that it is concerned about lack of transparency surrounding China's reported security agreement with the Solomon Islands. White House has called it to be part of pattern of Beijing offering 'shadowy' deals to smaller countries. Earlier, China said that it had signed a security deal with Solomon Islands. This has drawn attention of US allies Australia and New Zealand. There are concerns about growing Chinese influence in a region traditionally under their sway. A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said in a statement that US officials would raise the issue with the Solomon Islands on a planned visit to the Pacific Island country this week. Also Read | China and Solomon Islands ink controversial security pact "We are concerned by the lack of transparency and unspecified nature of this agreement, which follows a pattern of China offering shadowy, vague deals with little regional consultation in fishing, resource management, development assistance and now security practices," the official said. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters on Tuesday: "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently." The spokesperson did not specify when or where the signing took place. A draft version of the agreement leaked last month rattled Western governments, with provisions allowing for Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation. According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the Solomon Islands' request to maintain "social order".

US concerned about 'lack of transparency' in Chinese pact with Solomon Islands 

US President Joe Biden is all set to meet top military leaders at annual dinner with US military chiefs. Meanwhile, Biden is expected to announce Ukraine aid package soon.

US President Joe Biden to meet top military leaders at annual dinner with US military chiefs

Ilhan Omar, the U.S. congresswoman who pushed Washington to criticise India on alleged human rights violations, is visiting Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Will she question the state of minorities there? Or is her human rights advocacy only limited to India?

Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan

Wildfires in the United States' California are speeding up the snow melting process. Climate Change is also causing snow to melt faster than the usual.

US: Wildfires are speeding up the snow melting process in California

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is facing 17 charges of espionage in US. Now, A UK court ordered WikiLeaks founder's extradition to US.

UK court orders WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange extradition to US

US spring snowstorm knocks out power across states, leaving over 300,000 in the dark

The highly speculated agreement that will likely help China get a stronger grip over the Pacific has now been signed. China announced on Tuesday that they have signed a security pact with the Solomon islands in what it calls to be an inter-governmental framework agreement between both the nations.

China signs pact with Soloman islands; Australia, US raise concerns

US Vice President Kamala Harris has called for a global agreement to slow an anti-satellite arms race in a bid to reduce space junk. But what is space junk? Watch this report.

US Vice President Harris calls for a global agreement to slow an anti-satellite arms race

Floods, heatwaves, droughts and climate change is wreaking havoc in the United States. The country is facing more and more natural disasters with extreme weather events becoming more severe and frequent in the last few years. Watch this report!

Floods, fires & extreme heat wreak havoc in United States

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Police confirms death of suspect involved in Washington DC shooting

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's Pak visit not sponsored by US governement: Official

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"Don't Say Gay" law: Florida ends Disney's special status as culture war flares

Weed given as gifts in Washington DC's Cannabis stores

US police nearly killed 600 people since 2017 during traffic stops: Reports

US concerned about 'lack of transparency' in Chinese pact with Solomon Islands