The United States is seeking the backing of its allies for imposing fresh sanctions on China if Beijing offers military support to Moscow amid the Ukraine war. The discussions - said to be in the initial stage - are being held with members of the wealthy G7 grouping apart from other countries, news agency Reuters reported, citing officials familiar with the matter. In the past, Beijing has rebuffed Washington's claims of providing support to the Kremlin in the form of weapons for the war.&nbsp;

Kyiv marked one year of Russia's invasion, which was launched on February 22, 2022, last week as world leaders praised Ukraine for its resistance. Millions have been displaced because of the violence in the war-ravaged country. The conflict's knock-out effects have also hit global food and fuel supply chains. There is no end in sight for the war, which has also raised concerns about the use of nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden renewed his attack on Russian President Vladimir Putin last month when he paid a surprise visit to Kyiv ahead of the Ukraine war anniversary. In retaliation, Moscow has also been accusing the West of disrupting economies with multiple sanctions. China, however, has been silent amid global condemnation of the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Also watch|&nbsp; Russia- Ukraine war: Ukrainian soldiers say 'situation calmer'

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The report on drumming up support for sanctions comes at a time Washington and Beijing are already engaged in a diplomatic standoff&nbsp;over accusations of China sending "spy balloons" to the US.&nbsp;

 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-nations-should-try-and-stop-the-russia-ukraine-war-bangladesh-fm-tells-wion-567397">G20 nations should try and stop the Russia-Ukraine war, Bangladesh FM tells WION</a>

&nbsp;

The Biden administration's initial steps to counter Chinese support for Russia have included informal outreach at the staff and diplomatic levels, including the Treasury Department, Reuters reported, citing sources. An official from a country approached by Washington said that they had only seen scant intelligence backing up the claims about China considering possible military help to Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The United States is seeking the backing of its allies for imposing fresh sanctions on China if Beijing offers military support to Moscow amid the Ukraine war. The discussions - said to be in the initial stage - are being held with members of the wealthy G7 grouping apart from other countries, news agency Reuters reported, citing officials familiar with the matter.

The United States is seeking the backing of its allies for imposing fresh sanctions on China if Beijing offers military support to Moscow amid the Ukraine war. The discussions - said to be in the initial stage - are being held with members of the wealthy G7 grouping apart from other countries, news agency Reuters reported, citing officials familiar with the matter. In the past, Beijing has rebuffed Washington's claims of providing support to the Kremlin in the form of weapons for the war. Kyiv marked one year of Russia's invasion, which was launched on February 22, 2022, last week as world leaders praised Ukraine for its resistance. Millions have been displaced because of the violence in the war-ravaged country. The conflict's knock-out effects have also hit global food and fuel supply chains. There is no end in sight for the war, which has also raised concerns about the use of nuclear weapons. US President Joe Biden renewed his attack on Russian President Vladimir Putin last month when he paid a surprise visit to Kyiv ahead of the Ukraine war anniversary. In retaliation, Moscow has also been accusing the West of disrupting economies with multiple sanctions. China, however, has been silent amid global condemnation of the Kremlin. Also watch| Russia- Ukraine war: Ukrainian soldiers say 'situation calmer' × The report on drumming up support for sanctions comes at a time Washington and Beijing are already engaged in a diplomatic standoff over accusations of China sending "spy balloons" to the US. Also read: G20 nations should try and stop the Russia-Ukraine war, Bangladesh FM tells WION The Biden administration's initial steps to counter Chinese support for Russia have included informal outreach at the staff and diplomatic levels, including the Treasury Department, Reuters reported, citing sources. An official from a country approached by Washington said that they had only seen scant intelligence backing up the claims about China considering possible military help to Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid Ukraine war, US discussing possible sanctions against China: Report

In order to reduce costs, General Motors is cutting hundreds of Executive level and salary jobs in U.S. However, the reports added that the global reductions are in low hundreds and a cost-saving target of $2 billion will be achieved by reducing corporate expenses overhead and complexity in products.

US: General Motors on cost-cutting drive, cuts hundreds of jobs | World Business News

US and China tensions are already exacerbated by two fresh controversies around Russia's war on Ukraine and COVID-19 origins. Amid this, another one played out on Tuesday when China struck back at US for stepping up its attempts to ban the Chinese video-sharing network TikTok from work phones of its federal employees.&nbsp;

Terming the Washington's move to outlaw TikTok an "overreaction", Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, "We firmly oppose those wrong actions."

"The US government should respect the principles of market economy and fair competition, stop suppressing the companies and provide an open, fair and non-discriminatory environment for foreign companies in the US," she added while speaking to the reporters on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-bestselling-author-and-democrat-marianne-williamson-announces-2024-presidential-bid-566840">Bestselling author and Democrat Marianne Williamson announces 2024 presidential bid</a>

White House on Monday provided government agencies 30 days to ban the use of TikTok from federal devices. Ning said that US is fearful of young people's favourite app like TikTok.&nbsp;

US Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters news agency that to keep US data safe, all federal agencies must eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company.&nbsp;

Moreover, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will vote on Tuesday on a bill that would give US President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all US devices.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lukashenko-to-kick-off-china-visit-will-meet-xi-566821">Lukashenko to kick-off China visit, will meet Xi</a>

The vote comes in the wake of security concerns raised by US lawmakers that Beijing uses Chinese companies to snoop on Americans. "My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee chair, said.

"Anyone with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information. It’s a spy balloon into your phone."

Many government agencies had already banned TikTok from government devices before the vote. They are: the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-coalition-government-changes-course-566850">Nepal's coalition government changes course</a>

The US is the latest entrant to ban TikTok from being installed on government devices. Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of the US states had already taken necessary action in this regard.

India had gone a step further and banned the video-sharing app for commercial proposes in the wake of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes.&nbsp;

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US and China tensions are already exacerbated by two fresh controversies around Russia's war on Ukraine and COVID-19 origins. Amid this, another one played out on Tuesday when China struck back at US for stepping up its attempts to ban the Chinese video-sharing network TikTok from work phones of its federal employees.

US and China tensions are already exacerbated by two fresh controversies around Russia's war on Ukraine and COVID-19 origins. Amid this, another one played out on Tuesday when China struck back at US for stepping up its attempts to ban the Chinese video-sharing network TikTok from work phones of its federal employees. Terming the Washington's move to outlaw TikTok an "overreaction", Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, "We firmly oppose those wrong actions." "The US government should respect the principles of market economy and fair competition, stop suppressing the companies and provide an open, fair and non-discriminatory environment for foreign companies in the US," she added while speaking to the reporters on Tuesday. Also Read | Bestselling author and Democrat Marianne Williamson announces 2024 presidential bid White House on Monday provided government agencies 30 days to ban the use of TikTok from federal devices. Ning said that US is fearful of young people's favourite app like TikTok. US Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters news agency that to keep US data safe, all federal agencies must eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company. Moreover, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will vote on Tuesday on a bill that would give US President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all US devices. Also Read | Lukashenko to kick-off China visit, will meet Xi The vote comes in the wake of security concerns raised by US lawmakers that Beijing uses Chinese companies to snoop on Americans. "My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee chair, said. "Anyone with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information. It’s a spy balloon into your phone." Many government agencies had already banned TikTok from government devices before the vote. They are: the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department. Watch | Nepal's coalition government changes course The US is the latest entrant to ban TikTok from being installed on government devices. Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of the US states had already taken necessary action in this regard. India had gone a step further and banned the video-sharing app for commercial proposes in the wake of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices

US and Russia locked horns on Tuesday as another controversy erupted, with Moscow accusing Washington of planning a 'toxic chemicals provocation' in Ukraine.

A shipment of chemical substances arrived in the city of Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine on 10 February which was accompanied by a group of foreign citizens, claimed Igor Kirillov, the head of the Russian Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Forces (NBCP).

Kirillov also slammed former US envoy to Russia John Sullivan for his remarks where he had accused Russian troops of planning "to use chemical weapons" in Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-overreacting-by-banning-tiktok-on-federal-devices-566857">China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices</a>

"We warn that in case of provocations using toxic chemicals, the true culprits will be identified and punished. We will continue to work to expose the criminal activities of the West in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention," Kirillov stressed.

Speaking at a news briefing, Kirillov detailed about the shipments carrying toxic chemicals. He said that the shipment had 16 sealed metal containers and added that eight of them had a chemical hazard sign, the inscription BZ and two red lines, on them. The signs reportedly indicated a class of chemical weapon agents under the international signal system.&nbsp;

He went on to say that five other boxes had CS-Riot and three CR-Riot inscriptions which were marked with a single red line. As per international classification, a single red line mark indicates presence of tear gas or lachrymatory agent in the shipments.&nbsp;

Kirillov claimed that the contentious shipment was placed on US-made armoured vehicles and another shipment arrived in Kramatorsk on 19 February.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-amritpal-singh-the-sikh-man-from-indian-state-of-punjab-dubbed-as-bhindranwale-20-566842">Who is Amritpal Singh, the radical Sikh leader from Indian state of Punjab dubbed as 'Bhindranwale 2.0'?</a>

The other shipment, he claimed, delivered shrapnel with a special labeling on it warning it had substances like liquid irritants in it.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-coalition-government-changes-course-566850">Nepal's coalition government changes course</a>

"The facts of the simultaneous supply of toxic chemicals and means of protection against them indicate an attempt to carry out large-scale provocations using the combat psychotropic toxic substance BZ during the conflict," Kirillov added.

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&nbsp;

US and Russia locked horns on Tuesday as another controversy erupted, with Moscow accusing Washington of planning a 'toxic chemicals provocation' in Ukraine. A shipment of chemical substances arrived in the city of Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine on 10 February which was accompanied by a group of foreign citizens, claimed Igor Kirillov, the head of the Russian Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Forces (NBCP).

US and Russia locked horns on Tuesday as another controversy erupted, with Moscow accusing Washington of planning a 'toxic chemicals provocation' in Ukraine. A shipment of chemical substances arrived in the city of Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine on 10 February which was accompanied by a group of foreign citizens, claimed Igor Kirillov, the head of the Russian Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Forces (NBCP). Kirillov also slammed former US envoy to Russia John Sullivan for his remarks where he had accused Russian troops of planning "to use chemical weapons" in Ukraine war. Also Read | China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices "We warn that in case of provocations using toxic chemicals, the true culprits will be identified and punished. We will continue to work to expose the criminal activities of the West in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention," Kirillov stressed. Speaking at a news briefing, Kirillov detailed about the shipments carrying toxic chemicals. He said that the shipment had 16 sealed metal containers and added that eight of them had a chemical hazard sign, the inscription BZ and two red lines, on them. The signs reportedly indicated a class of chemical weapon agents under the international signal system. He went on to say that five other boxes had CS-Riot and three CR-Riot inscriptions which were marked with a single red line. As per international classification, a single red line mark indicates presence of tear gas or lachrymatory agent in the shipments. Kirillov claimed that the contentious shipment was placed on US-made armoured vehicles and another shipment arrived in Kramatorsk on 19 February. Also Read | Who is Amritpal Singh, the radical Sikh leader from Indian state of Punjab dubbed as 'Bhindranwale 2.0'? The other shipment, he claimed, delivered shrapnel with a special labeling on it warning it had substances like liquid irritants in it. Watch | Nepal's coalition government changes course "The facts of the simultaneous supply of toxic chemicals and means of protection against them indicate an attempt to carry out large-scale provocations using the combat psychotropic toxic substance BZ during the conflict," Kirillov added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia accuses US of planning 'toxic chemicals' provocation in Ukraine

European airline Wizz Air is set to suspend flights to Moldova from 14 March citing "risk in the country's airspace" amid Russia-Moldova tensions.

The Hungarian airline in a statement said on Monday, “As a result of recent developments in Moldova and the high, but not imminent, risk in the country’s airspace, Wizz Air has taken the difficult but responsible decision to suspend all flights to Chisinau starting on March 14."&nbsp;

However, it did not detail what it meant by "recent developments."&nbsp;According to Wizz Air’s website, after 14 March, flights meant for Chisinau International Airport will land at Iasi in Romania.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-overreacting-by-banning-tiktok-on-federal-devices-566857">China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices</a>

Tensions are simmering after Moldova accused Russia of plotting a coup in the country and vying to topple the ruling government. Chisinau also claimed that Russian missiles have breached the country's airspace on several ocasions as the Ukraine war entered its second year.&nbsp;

The breakaway Moldovan region of Transnistria is the latest inflection point in the Ukraine war. Moscow has not only denied all claims of plotting a coup in Moldova, it pushed back against the West's accusations of fanning tensions in the region.&nbsp;

Kremlin added that any actions that threatened Russian peacekeepers in Transdniestria will be taken as an attack on Russia itself.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-amritpal-singh-the-sikh-man-from-indian-state-of-punjab-dubbed-as-bhindranwale-20-566842">Who is Amritpal Singh, the radical Sikh leader from Indian state of Punjab dubbed as 'Bhindranwale 2.0'?</a>

When Moldova became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia sent its military troops to Transnistria to lend support to pro-Moscow separatists in the region. Following this, a war with Moldovan forces broke out. It ended in deadlock in 1992 and Transnistria was not recognised internationally, even by Russia. Moldovan forces left it a de facto breakaway state.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-coalition-government-changes-course-566850">Nepal's coalition government changes course</a>

Now, about 500,000 inhabitants of the breakaway region are in a state of limbo, as reportedly Chisinau does not hold control over it even to this day.

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European airline Wizz Air is set to suspend flights to Moldova from 14 March citing "risk in the country's airspace" amid Russia-Moldova tensions. The Hungarian airline in a statement said on Monday, “As a result of recent developments in Moldova and the high, but not imminent, risk in the country’s airspace, Wizz Air has taken the difficult but responsible decision to suspend all flights to Chisinau starting on March 14.

European airline Wizz Air is set to suspend flights to Moldova from 14 March citing "risk in the country's airspace" amid Russia-Moldova tensions. The Hungarian airline in a statement said on Monday, “As a result of recent developments in Moldova and the high, but not imminent, risk in the country’s airspace, Wizz Air has taken the difficult but responsible decision to suspend all flights to Chisinau starting on March 14." However, it did not detail what it meant by "recent developments." According to Wizz Air’s website, after 14 March, flights meant for Chisinau International Airport will land at Iasi in Romania. Also Read | China says US 'overreacting' by banning TikTok on federal devices Tensions are simmering after Moldova accused Russia of plotting a coup in the country and vying to topple the ruling government. Chisinau also claimed that Russian missiles have breached the country's airspace on several ocasions as the Ukraine war entered its second year. The breakaway Moldovan region of Transnistria is the latest inflection point in the Ukraine war. Moscow has not only denied all claims of plotting a coup in Moldova, it pushed back against the West's accusations of fanning tensions in the region. Kremlin added that any actions that threatened Russian peacekeepers in Transdniestria will be taken as an attack on Russia itself. Also Read | Who is Amritpal Singh, the radical Sikh leader from Indian state of Punjab dubbed as 'Bhindranwale 2.0'? When Moldova became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia sent its military troops to Transnistria to lend support to pro-Moscow separatists in the region. Following this, a war with Moldovan forces broke out. It ended in deadlock in 1992 and Transnistria was not recognised internationally, even by Russia. Moldovan forces left it a de facto breakaway state. Watch | Nepal's coalition government changes course Now, about 500,000 inhabitants of the breakaway region are in a state of limbo, as reportedly Chisinau does not hold control over it even to this day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

European carrier Wizz Air to suspend flights to Moldova citing airspace ‘risk’

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he will not meet the Russian or Chinese foreign ministers at this week's G20 meeting in New Delhi. Blinken has refused to meet Lavrov in person since the Ukraine invasion.

G20 Foreign Ministers meet: Antony Blinken says 'no plans' to meet Russia, China at G20

The US ambassador to China said on Monday (February 27) Beijing must be “more honest” about the origins of COVID-19. This comes after the US Energy Department report concluded that the pandemic may have been a Chinese laboratory leak, as per media reports.&nbsp;A similar claim was made by the FBI in a report two years ago where they determined, albeit with “moderate confidence”, that the virus was part of a lab leak.&nbsp;The next day, China responded by saying that it has been "open and transparent" with its search for the virus' origins.&nbsp;

Beijing needed to “be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the COVID-19 crisis,” ambassador Nicholas Burns said, referring to the Chinese city where the first cases in connection with the virus were reported. The remarks were also made in the context of strengthening the World Health Organization (WHO) and pushing Beijing to play a more active role in the organisation during a US Chamber of Commerce event.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-likely-was-a-result-of-lab-leak-us-energy-departments-report-says-566200">COVID-19 virus likely was a result of lab leak, US energy department’s report says</a>

The recent claim on the virus origin, made in a classified intelligence report which was provided to the White House and key lawmakers in Congress, was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. The US energy department’s report alleged that the pandemic likely began with a virus escaping from a Chinese lab. 
 
However, Beijing has rejected these claims and accused the US of “politicising” origin-tracing of the virus and asked it to “stop smearing China” by rehashing the “‘lab leak’ narrative”. These remarks were made by the Chinese&nbsp;Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during her daily press briefing on Tuesday. Mao also said Beijing has "shared the most data and research results on virus tracing and made important contributions to global virus tracing research", reported Associated Press.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-lab-leak-theory-resurfaces-566566">Gravitas: Wuhan Lab Leak theory resurfaces</a> 
 
Media reports meanwhile said that the department's conclusion was made with “low confidence.” The National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said there is no definitive conclusion on the Covid origin theory. “What the US President (Joe Biden) wants is facts. He wants the whole government designed to get those facts and that’s what we are doing. And we’re not just there yet,” said Kirby, during a press briefing, on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In an interview with CNN, the Biden administration’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan also said there is a range of views in the intelligence community about the origins of the pandemic. He added, “A number of them have said they just don't have enough information”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The US ambassador to China said on Monday (February 27) Beijing must be “more honest” about the origins of COVID-19. This comes after the US Energy Department report concluded that the pandemic may have been a Chinese laboratory leak, as per media reports.

The US ambassador to China said on Monday (February 27) Beijing must be “more honest” about the origins of COVID-19. This comes after the US Energy Department report concluded that the pandemic may have been a Chinese laboratory leak, as per media reports. A similar claim was made by the FBI in a report two years ago where they determined, albeit with “moderate confidence”, that the virus was part of a lab leak. The next day, China responded by saying that it has been "open and transparent" with its search for the virus' origins. Beijing needed to “be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the COVID-19 crisis,” ambassador Nicholas Burns said, referring to the Chinese city where the first cases in connection with the virus were reported. The remarks were also made in the context of strengthening the World Health Organization (WHO) and pushing Beijing to play a more active role in the organisation during a US Chamber of Commerce event. ALSO READ | COVID-19 virus likely was a result of lab leak, US energy department’s report says The recent claim on the virus origin, made in a classified intelligence report which was provided to the White House and key lawmakers in Congress, was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. The US energy department’s report alleged that the pandemic likely began with a virus escaping from a Chinese lab. However, Beijing has rejected these claims and accused the US of “politicising” origin-tracing of the virus and asked it to “stop smearing China” by rehashing the “‘lab leak’ narrative”. These remarks were made by the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during her daily press briefing on Tuesday. Mao also said Beijing has "shared the most data and research results on virus tracing and made important contributions to global virus tracing research", reported Associated Press. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Wuhan Lab Leak theory resurfaces Media reports meanwhile said that the department's conclusion was made with “low confidence.” The National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said there is no definitive conclusion on the Covid origin theory. “What the US President (Joe Biden) wants is facts. He wants the whole government designed to get those facts and that’s what we are doing. And we’re not just there yet,” said Kirby, during a press briefing, on Monday. In an interview with CNN, the Biden administration’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan also said there is a range of views in the intelligence community about the origins of the pandemic. He added, “A number of them have said they just don't have enough information”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China needs to be ‘more honest’ on origins of COVID-19, says US ambassador; Beijing retorts

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - US President Joe Biden is on his way to becoming the most evasive president in the US history, a report by Sputnik news agency said which laid out data on how his predecessors were less shy of the press cameras and held more conferences.

Trending on WION | Report: Joe Biden set to become the most evasive President in US history

Marianne Williamson has declared her plans&nbsp;to run for president in 2024, making her the first Democrat to take on Joe Biden for the party's nomination.

Marianne Williamson, the self-help author and spiritual adviser to Oprah Winfrey, launched her campaign in Washington on Saturday (February 25).&nbsp;

The unconventional 2016 White House triumph, according to Williamson, makes it "odd for anyone to think they can know who can win the presidency," she said in a Facebook post after running unsuccessfully for president in 2020.

“I’m not putting myself through this again just to add to the conversation,” Williamson wrote. “I’m running for president to help bring an aberrational chapter of our history to a close, and to help bring forth a new beginning.”

<h2>Marianne Williamson: Early life and career&nbsp;</h2>

Williamson was born in Houston in 1952, according to her 2020 campaign website. Her mother was a conventional housewife, while her father practised immigration law.

She attended Houston Public School and studied at Pomona College in California for two years.

Later, she founded the Centers for Living in Los Angeles and Manhattan in the 1980s, at the height of the AIDS pandemic, to aid those who were suffering from the illness, according to The New York Times.

In 1992, she released her debut book, A return to love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-hears-arguments-on-bidens-student-debt-relief-plan-566922">Supreme Court hears arguments on Biden's student debt relief plan</a>

Williamson said on her website that Oprah Winfrey's decision to invite her as a guest on her well-known talk show and distribute a thousand copies of her book helped it become a success.

Twelve novels have subsequently been released by her, four of which have debuted at number one on The New York Times bestseller list.

Williamson recognised that her career hasn't been conventional on her <a href="https://marianne2020.com/">website</a> but claimed that it has been successful.

“I have been a teacher of transformational wisdom, a successful businesswoman, and a political activist. I have counselled leaders ranging from business to culture to politics. I have been blessed to participate in many non-profit activities, including co-founding The Peace Alliance working on the Board of Results, and speaking for various charitable causes over the years. I produced and hosted four Sister Giant Conferences, facilitating the connection of thousands of women to progressive activism and electoral politics,” Williamson wrote.

<h2>Williamson's political debut, unsuccessful 2020 campaign</h2>

Williamson entered politics for the first time in 2014 when she lost her bid for a seat in the Los Angeles City Council.

She&nbsp;initially made a name for herself on the national scene in 2016 as an outspoken supporter of progressive senator Bernie Sanders, who lost&nbsp;the Democratic nomination to Hillary Clinton.

Williamson's announcement that she might be running for US president in 2019 caused controversy.

Her attempt to use her own fame as a springboard into politics was an attempt to emulate then president Donald Trump.

“Mr President, if you’re listening, I want you to hear me, please: You have harnessed fear for political purposes, and only love can cast that out,” she said as per&nbsp;The New York Times.

As per the New York Times,&nbsp;she called payments of reparations to Black people "payment of a debt that is owed" and asserted that the Flint water crisis would never have happened in an affluent, white neighbourhood.

One of her most intriguing&nbsp;ideas was to establish a US Department of Peace.

Also, some of her most outlandish opinions came under more intense examination due to her heightened notoriety.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;US&nbsp;begins crackdown against child labour

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According to The Los Angeles Times, Williamson drew criticism in June 2019 for calling vaccine requirements "draconian" and "Orwellian."

“To me, it’s no different than the abortion debate,” Williamson said. “The US government doesn’t tell any citizen, in my book, what they have to do with their body or their child.”

Williamson however had trouble obtaining funds and his polling average never exceeded&nbsp;one per cent.

Days after firing her entire 2020 campaign team, Williamson withdrew from the race in January 2020.

Williamson wrote on her website saying,&nbsp;“we will not be able to garner enough votes in the election to elevate our conversation any more than it is now.”

<h2>Biden vs. Williamson</h2>

Williamson said she intends to visit states with early Democratic primary voting after her announcement in Washington. This includes New Hampshire, where she has said she will run in the state's primary if it breaches DNC rules and hosts the country's first presidential nomination battle even though the party has designated South Carolina as its leadoff state for 2024.

She declared: “I feel my 40 years being up close and personal with the trauma of so many thousands of individuals gives me a unique perspective on what is needed to help repair America. We need a politics that treats not just symptoms, but cause. That does not base itself on the crass imperatives of endless corporate profit, but on the eternal imperatives of our principles and values,” as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“I feel my forty years being up close and personal with the trauma of so many thousands of individuals gives me a unique perspective on what is needed to help repair America,” Williamson wrote. “We need a politics that treats not just symptoms, but cause. That does not base itself on the crass imperatives of endless corporate profit, but on the eternal imperatives of our principles and values,” she added.&nbsp;

The official announcement of Biden's reelection campaign, according to advisers, is expected to happen within the next several months. The president "pretty much" had to choose a time and location to declare his candidature for reelection, according to first lady Jill Biden, who recently told The Associated Press.

Biden himself, though told ABC that “there’s too many other things I have to finish in the near-term before I start a campaign.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Marianne Williamson has declared her plans to run for president in 2024, making her the first Democrat to take on Joe Biden for the party's nomination. Marianne Williamson, the self-help author and spiritual adviser to Oprah Winfrey, launched her campaign in Washington on Saturday (February 25).

Marianne Williamson has declared her plans to run for president in 2024, making her the first Democrat to take on Joe Biden for the party's nomination. Marianne Williamson, the self-help author and spiritual adviser to Oprah Winfrey, launched her campaign in Washington on Saturday (February 25). The unconventional 2016 White House triumph, according to Williamson, makes it "odd for anyone to think they can know who can win the presidency," she said in a Facebook post after running unsuccessfully for president in 2020. “I’m not putting myself through this again just to add to the conversation,” Williamson wrote. “I’m running for president to help bring an aberrational chapter of our history to a close, and to help bring forth a new beginning.” Marianne Williamson: Early life and career Williamson was born in Houston in 1952, according to her 2020 campaign website. Her mother was a conventional housewife, while her father practised immigration law. She attended Houston Public School and studied at Pomona College in California for two years. Later, she founded the Centers for Living in Los Angeles and Manhattan in the 1980s, at the height of the AIDS pandemic, to aid those who were suffering from the illness, according to The New York Times. In 1992, she released her debut book, A return to love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles. ALSO READ | Supreme Court hears arguments on Biden's student debt relief plan Williamson said on her website that Oprah Winfrey's decision to invite her as a guest on her well-known talk show and distribute a thousand copies of her book helped it become a success. Twelve novels have subsequently been released by her, four of which have debuted at number one on The New York Times bestseller list. Williamson recognised that her career hasn't been conventional on her website but claimed that it has been successful. “I have been a teacher of transformational wisdom, a successful businesswoman, and a political activist. I have counselled leaders ranging from business to culture to politics. I have been blessed to participate in many non-profit activities, including co-founding The Peace Alliance working on the Board of Results, and speaking for various charitable causes over the years. I produced and hosted four Sister Giant Conferences, facilitating the connection of thousands of women to progressive activism and electoral politics,” Williamson wrote. Williamson's political debut, unsuccessful 2020 campaign Williamson entered politics for the first time in 2014 when she lost her bid for a seat in the Los Angeles City Council. She initially made a name for herself on the national scene in 2016 as an outspoken supporter of progressive senator Bernie Sanders, who lost the Democratic nomination to Hillary Clinton. Williamson's announcement that she might be running for US president in 2019 caused controversy. Her attempt to use her own fame as a springboard into politics was an attempt to emulate then president Donald Trump. “Mr President, if you’re listening, I want you to hear me, please: You have harnessed fear for political purposes, and only love can cast that out,” she said as per The New York Times. As per the New York Times, she called payments of reparations to Black people "payment of a debt that is owed" and asserted that the Flint water crisis would never have happened in an affluent, white neighbourhood. One of her most intriguing ideas was to establish a US Department of Peace. Also, some of her most outlandish opinions came under more intense examination due to her heightened notoriety. ALSO WATCH | US begins crackdown against child labour According to The Los Angeles Times, Williamson drew criticism in June 2019 for calling vaccine requirements "draconian" and "Orwellian." “To me, it’s no different than the abortion debate,” Williamson said. “The US government doesn’t tell any citizen, in my book, what they have to do with their body or their child.” Williamson however had trouble obtaining funds and his polling average never exceeded one per cent. Days after firing her entire 2020 campaign team, Williamson withdrew from the race in January 2020. Williamson wrote on her website saying, “we will not be able to garner enough votes in the election to elevate our conversation any more than it is now.” Biden vs. Williamson Williamson said she intends to visit states with early Democratic primary voting after her announcement in Washington. This includes New Hampshire, where she has said she will run in the state's primary if it breaches DNC rules and hosts the country's first presidential nomination battle even though the party has designated South Carolina as its leadoff state for 2024. She declared: “I feel my 40 years being up close and personal with the trauma of so many thousands of individuals gives me a unique perspective on what is needed to help repair America. We need a politics that treats not just symptoms, but cause. That does not base itself on the crass imperatives of endless corporate profit, but on the eternal imperatives of our principles and values,” as reported by the Guardian. “I feel my forty years being up close and personal with the trauma of so many thousands of individuals gives me a unique perspective on what is needed to help repair America,” Williamson wrote. “We need a politics that treats not just symptoms, but cause. That does not base itself on the crass imperatives of endless corporate profit, but on the eternal imperatives of our principles and values,” she added. The official announcement of Biden's reelection campaign, according to advisers, is expected to happen within the next several months. The president "pretty much" had to choose a time and location to declare his candidature for reelection, according to first lady Jill Biden, who recently told The Associated Press. Biden himself, though told ABC that “there’s too many other things I have to finish in the near-term before I start a campaign.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | Who is Marianne Williamson? First Democrat to challenge Biden for 2024

The Supreme Court heard arguments on President Biden federal Students loan forgiveness plan on Tuesday. Conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices on Tuesday signaled skepticism over the legality of President Joe Biden's plan to cancel $430 billion in student debt.

U.S. SC weighs Biden student debt relief plan

Many residents of East Palestine, Ohio, have now returned to their homes,&nbsp;after Norfolk Southern train derailed earlier this month and dumped more than 100,000 gallons of hazardous chemicals into the air and water.&nbsp;

The track has been cleaned and the enormous cloud of smoke from the burning vinyl chloride has drifted away. Rail service has resumed in the town.

Nonetheless, the 4,700 people of East Palestine claim that they continue to smell chemical residue in the air, notice an oily sheen in the water, and feel queasy and sick.&nbsp;The disaster's long-term ramifications are a growing source of concern, as reported by Vox.&nbsp;

Pete Buttigieg, the secretary of transportation, visited East Palestine this week and expressed regret for his delay in addressing the derailment. President Joe Biden was criticised for travelling to Ukraine this week rather than Ohio by former President Donald Trump, who also paid a visit to the region, as reported by AFP.

Other government representatives are attempting to reassure the public that most of the risk has subsided. Mike DeWine, the governor of Ohio, and Michael Regan, the administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), visited East Palestine this week and drank tap water at a resident's house, as per a Vox report.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ohio-toxic-train-crash-authorities-suspend-waste-removal-as-contamination-fear-looms-565984">Ohio toxic train crash: Authorities suspend waste removal as contamination fear looms</a>

“You don’t know who to trust. That’s a big part of it — the uncertainty. You don’t know if you’re going to have to move,” one resident, Carolyn Brown, told&nbsp;ABC News. “We need to feel that we’re safe.”

<h2>What lies ahead for the people of East Palestine, Ohio?</h2>

The National Transportation Safety Board found that 11 of the 38 vehicles that derailed on February 3 contained hazardous chemicals. These substances included flammable carcinogenic gases like vinyl chloride and poisonous flammable liquids like butyl acrylate. The situation was made more difficult by some leaks, flaring, and burns.

“Each of the chemicals that leaked are respiratory irritants, and some of their breakdown products are also irritants,” said&nbsp;Marilyn Howarth, an environmental toxicologist at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, who spoke to Vox.

Researchers studying occupational health have shown that employees who are frequently exposed to substances like vinyl chloride had greater incidences of liver cancer.

As per&nbsp;Howarth, the signal may not appear for 20 years or more. Unlike the population of East Palestine, these employees were exposed to larger amounts and in confined settings. The impacts of exposure from the railway crash are not yet known, but it will be important to monitor vinyl chloride concentrations in the area for years to come because the severe effects have a long latency.

Meanwhile, contaminants from burning vinyl chloride, such as dioxin, and other compounds that leak, such as butyl acrylate, can contaminate water sources for years and spread across watersheds and underground aquifers that provide drinking water.

An analysis of data from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/oh/east-palestine-ohio-train-derailment-emergency-response">US Environmental Protection Agency</a>’s&nbsp;measurements of pollutants released from the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, suggests if the concentrations of certain of these pollutants continue to be high, it may eventually pose a risk to the residents' health. The compounds could be stirred up by temperature changes or strong winds and released into the atmosphere.

According to the research, acrolein was a molecule that was most abundant in East Palestine.

Plants, algae, rodents, and microbes can all be treated by acrolein. The substance is poisonous and clear at room temperature. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it can irritate and cause inflammation of the skin, mucous membranes, and respiratory system.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Ohio train derailment: Environmental disaster

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East Palestine's residents will also need to monitor their health, as per Philip Landrigan, head of the public health department at Boston College, who examined 20,000 first responders and rescue personnel in New York City after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

He told&nbsp;Vox that of the most important takeaways from that research, according to him, was the necessity of routine health checks to identify issues as they developed over time, in addition to determining exactly what was in the dust that people were breathing in.

<h2>Who pays for the cleanup?</h2>

The cleanup following the train disaster and the response has been mandated by the EPA to be covered by Norfolk Southern. According to the EPA&nbsp;administrator Regan, if they fall short, the rail operator may be fined $70,000 per day.

“Norfolk Southern will pay for the mess that they created and the trauma that they inflicted on this community,” he said during a press conference this week.

Some locals are currently considering suing the railroad company. Norfolk Southern has also pledged to help and provide the town with $5.6 million in financial support, as per ABC news.&nbsp;But, re-establishing confidence between the community and the government will be one of the biggest challenges.

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Many residents of East Palestine, Ohio, have now returned to their homes, after Norfolk Southern train derailed earlier this month and dumped more than 100,000 gallons of hazardous chemicals into the air and water.

Many residents of East Palestine, Ohio, have now returned to their homes, after Norfolk Southern train derailed earlier this month and dumped more than 100,000 gallons of hazardous chemicals into the air and water. The track has been cleaned and the enormous cloud of smoke from the burning vinyl chloride has drifted away. Rail service has resumed in the town. Nonetheless, the 4,700 people of East Palestine claim that they continue to smell chemical residue in the air, notice an oily sheen in the water, and feel queasy and sick. The disaster's long-term ramifications are a growing source of concern, as reported by Vox. Pete Buttigieg, the secretary of transportation, visited East Palestine this week and expressed regret for his delay in addressing the derailment. President Joe Biden was criticised for travelling to Ukraine this week rather than Ohio by former President Donald Trump, who also paid a visit to the region, as reported by AFP. Other government representatives are attempting to reassure the public that most of the risk has subsided. Mike DeWine, the governor of Ohio, and Michael Regan, the administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), visited East Palestine this week and drank tap water at a resident's house, as per a Vox report. ALSO READ | Ohio toxic train crash: Authorities suspend waste removal as contamination fear looms “You don’t know who to trust. That’s a big part of it — the uncertainty. You don’t know if you’re going to have to move,” one resident, Carolyn Brown, told ABC News. “We need to feel that we’re safe.” What lies ahead for the people of East Palestine, Ohio? The National Transportation Safety Board found that 11 of the 38 vehicles that derailed on February 3 contained hazardous chemicals. These substances included flammable carcinogenic gases like vinyl chloride and poisonous flammable liquids like butyl acrylate. The situation was made more difficult by some leaks, flaring, and burns. “Each of the chemicals that leaked are respiratory irritants, and some of their breakdown products are also irritants,” said Marilyn Howarth, an environmental toxicologist at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, who spoke to Vox. Researchers studying occupational health have shown that employees who are frequently exposed to substances like vinyl chloride had greater incidences of liver cancer. As per Howarth, the signal may not appear for 20 years or more. Unlike the population of East Palestine, these employees were exposed to larger amounts and in confined settings. The impacts of exposure from the railway crash are not yet known, but it will be important to monitor vinyl chloride concentrations in the area for years to come because the severe effects have a long latency. Meanwhile, contaminants from burning vinyl chloride, such as dioxin, and other compounds that leak, such as butyl acrylate, can contaminate water sources for years and spread across watersheds and underground aquifers that provide drinking water. An analysis of data from the US Environmental Protection Agency’s measurements of pollutants released from the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, suggests if the concentrations of certain of these pollutants continue to be high, it may eventually pose a risk to the residents' health. The compounds could be stirred up by temperature changes or strong winds and released into the atmosphere. According to the research, acrolein was a molecule that was most abundant in East Palestine. Plants, algae, rodents, and microbes can all be treated by acrolein. The substance is poisonous and clear at room temperature. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it can irritate and cause inflammation of the skin, mucous membranes, and respiratory system. ALSO WATCH | Ohio train derailment: Environmental disaster East Palestine's residents will also need to monitor their health, as per Philip Landrigan, head of the public health department at Boston College, who examined 20,000 first responders and rescue personnel in New York City after the 9/11 attacks in 2001. He told Vox that of the most important takeaways from that research, according to him, was the necessity of routine health checks to identify issues as they developed over time, in addition to determining exactly what was in the dust that people were breathing in. Who pays for the cleanup? The cleanup following the train disaster and the response has been mandated by the EPA to be covered by Norfolk Southern. According to the EPA administrator Regan, if they fall short, the rail operator may be fined $70,000 per day. “Norfolk Southern will pay for the mess that they created and the trauma that they inflicted on this community,” he said during a press conference this week. Some locals are currently considering suing the railroad company. Norfolk Southern has also pledged to help and provide the town with $5.6 million in financial support, as per ABC news. But, re-establishing confidence between the community and the government will be one of the biggest challenges. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | Ohio train derailment: What could be the long-term health hazards of the disaster?

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Kazakhstan, his first stop to meet the Central Asian countries, on Tuesday (February 28). This comes as Washington has sought deeper engagement with the five former Soviet republics in the region following the Russian invasion of Ukraine that began a year ago.&nbsp;

Blinken embarked on his maiden visit to the region as the top diplomat for&nbsp;President Joe Biden’s administratio, with stopovers at the capitals of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. He held talks with the Kazakh foreign minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi on Tuesday, after which he also met with the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.&nbsp;

The talks were held under the so-called C5+1 group made up of the US, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. While the former soviet countries have had a somewhat close relationship with Russia, it has recently become strained following Moscow’s invasion of Kyiv and the effect it has had on the Central Asian countries, particularly economically.&nbsp;

“We are watching compliance with sanctions very closely and we're having an ongoing discussion with number of countries, including our C5 partners, on the economic spillover effects”, said Blinken at a press conference, after a meeting with the officials in the Kazakh capital Astana.&nbsp;

He recalled the US was the first country in December of 1991 to recognise Kazakhstan and remains “firmly committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Kazakhstan and countries across the region.”

The US official also announced a $25 million package as new funding to support economic growth in the region, including new trade routes and helping companies find new exports.

The Central Asian countries have generally adopted a neutral stance -- not being either pro-Russian or pro-Western-- and Tileuberdi said Kazakhstan would continue to do so amid the “complex international situation”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Kazakhstan, his first stop to meet the Central Asian countries, on Tuesday (February 28). This comes as Washington has sought deeper engagement with the five former Soviet republics in the region following the Russian invasion of Ukraine that began a year ago.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Kazakhstan, his first stop to meet the Central Asian countries, on Tuesday (February 28). This comes as Washington has sought deeper engagement with the five former Soviet republics in the region following the Russian invasion of Ukraine that began a year ago. Blinken embarked on his maiden visit to the region as the top diplomat for President Joe Biden’s administratio, with stopovers at the capitals of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. He held talks with the Kazakh foreign minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi on Tuesday, after which he also met with the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The talks were held under the so-called C5+1 group made up of the US, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. While the former soviet countries have had a somewhat close relationship with Russia, it has recently become strained following Moscow’s invasion of Kyiv and the effect it has had on the Central Asian countries, particularly economically. “We are watching compliance with sanctions very closely and we're having an ongoing discussion with number of countries, including our C5 partners, on the economic spillover effects”, said Blinken at a press conference, after a meeting with the officials in the Kazakh capital Astana. He recalled the US was the first country in December of 1991 to recognise Kazakhstan and remains “firmly committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Kazakhstan and countries across the region.” The US official also announced a $25 million package as new funding to support economic growth in the region, including new trade routes and helping companies find new exports. The Central Asian countries have generally adopted a neutral stance -- not being either pro-Russian or pro-Western-- and Tileuberdi said Kazakhstan would continue to do so amid the “complex international situation”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Blinken warns Central Asian countries about dangers of Ukraine conflict; seeks to bolster C5+1 group ties

The U.S. & Canada have decided to ban Tiktok from 'govt devices'. Will they implement a nation-wide ban? What lessons can they learn from India? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: America finally wakes up to TikTok threat

The United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Ukraine, on Monday (February 26) to reaffirm Washington’s support to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, reported Reuters. The US finance chief also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key government officials in Kyiv.&nbsp;

The visit comes a week after US President Joe Biden’s surprise visit to the war-torn country, days before the conflict reached its one-year mark. “America will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes,” said Yellen, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

The US official also held a private meeting with the Ukrainian president where she reportedly praised him for his “leadership and resolve” amid Russia’s “illegal and unprovoked war.” She lauded his efforts for taking measures which ensure transparency on how the assistance is spent.

After Yellen's&nbsp;visit, Zelensky took to Telegram and said the US has been "powerfully supporting us since the first days of this war not only with weapons, but also on the financial front". He added, "It is necessary to further strengthen sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war."

Yellen’s staff kept her visit a secret until she left Kyiv as the US official’s schedule for Monday only read “meet with advisors and staff,” without any other details. Prior to her arrival, air raid sirens went off in the Ukrainian capital which later turned out to be a false alarm, as per Reuters. Yellen also laid a wreath at the&nbsp;Wall of Remembrance dedicated to&nbsp;Ukraine’s troops who have been killed during the conflict.&nbsp;

Subsequently, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal&nbsp;said that he and the US finance minister also spoke about additional sanctions on Moscow which included confiscating some $300 billion in Russian frozen central bank assets for Ukraine’s recovery. However, Yellen told reporters that there are major legal obstacles to making this move.&nbsp;

While in Kyiv, the US finance minister&nbsp;also announced the transfer of the first $1.25 billion from the recent&nbsp;$9.9 billion package in&nbsp;economic and budget assistance to Ukraine from the US. Since the conflict began a year ago Washington has given more than $13 billion in economic aid&nbsp;and provided&nbsp;$50 billion overall&nbsp;including&nbsp;security and humanitarian assistance&nbsp;to Kyiv.&nbsp;

Additionally, the US has also&nbsp;announced&nbsp;another billion-dollar package to boost the war-torn country’s economy. The finance minister said, “Our economic support is keeping essential public services running. These services maintain economic and social stability in Ukraine”. She added, “A sustained military effort cannot succeed without an effective government at home.” Yellen also visited a school in Kyiv where salaries of the staff are reimbursed from US budget support funds.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Ukraine, on Monday (February 26) to reaffirm Washington’s support to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, reported Reuters.

The United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Ukraine, on Monday (February 26) to reaffirm Washington’s support to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, reported Reuters. The US finance chief also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key government officials in Kyiv. The visit comes a week after US President Joe Biden’s surprise visit to the war-torn country, days before the conflict reached its one-year mark. “America will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes,” said Yellen, as per Reuters. The US official also held a private meeting with the Ukrainian president where she reportedly praised him for his “leadership and resolve” amid Russia’s “illegal and unprovoked war.” She lauded his efforts for taking measures which ensure transparency on how the assistance is spent. After Yellen's visit, Zelensky took to Telegram and said the US has been "powerfully supporting us since the first days of this war not only with weapons, but also on the financial front". He added, "It is necessary to further strengthen sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war." Yellen’s staff kept her visit a secret until she left Kyiv as the US official’s schedule for Monday only read “meet with advisors and staff,” without any other details. Prior to her arrival, air raid sirens went off in the Ukrainian capital which later turned out to be a false alarm, as per Reuters. Yellen also laid a wreath at the Wall of Remembrance dedicated to Ukraine’s troops who have been killed during the conflict. Subsequently, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that he and the US finance minister also spoke about additional sanctions on Moscow which included confiscating some $300 billion in Russian frozen central bank assets for Ukraine’s recovery. However, Yellen told reporters that there are major legal obstacles to making this move. While in Kyiv, the US finance minister also announced the transfer of the first $1.25 billion from the recent $9.9 billion package in economic and budget assistance to Ukraine from the US. Since the conflict began a year ago Washington has given more than $13 billion in economic aid and provided $50 billion overall including security and humanitarian assistance to Kyiv. Additionally, the US has also announced another billion-dollar package to boost the war-torn country’s economy. The finance minister said, “Our economic support is keeping essential public services running. These services maintain economic and social stability in Ukraine”. She added, “A sustained military effort cannot succeed without an effective government at home.” Yellen also visited a school in Kyiv where salaries of the staff are reimbursed from US budget support funds. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US treasury secretary Yellen makes surprise visit to Kyiv, reaffirms Washington's economic support to Ukraine

Japan will purchase 400 Tomahawk missiles from the United States, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Monday, as his government beefs up the country's defences.

Japan to buy 400 Tomahawk missiles from US, says PM Kishida

The United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen makes a surprise visit to Ukraine to reaffirm Washington's support and extend its economic support to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Yellen also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key government officials in Kyiv.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen makes surprise Kyiv visit, meets Zelensky

The US federal agencies have been given 30 days ultimatum by the White House to ensure no government devices and systems have the Chinese video sharing app TikTok.

In a bid to keep US data safe, all federal agencies must&nbsp;eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters news agency.

On Tuesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will vote on a bill that would give President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all US devices.

The order comes almost a year after Congress voted to prohibit federal employees from using the Chinese-owned app on government devices and gave the Biden administration 60 days to enforce the ban.

The vote comes in the wake of security concerns raised by US lawmakers that Beijing uses Chinese companies to snoop on Americans.

<h2>Canada bans TikTok on government devices over security risks</h2>

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"My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any&nbsp;software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee's chair, said.

"Anyone&nbsp;with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese&nbsp;Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information.&nbsp;It’s a spy balloon into your phone."

Many government agencies had already banned TikTok from government devices before the vote. They include the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department.

The US is the latest entrant to ban TikTok from being installed on government devices. Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of the US states had already taken necessary action in this regard.

India went a step further and banned the video-sharing app for commercial proposes in the wake of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. The brawl between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, a Himalayan border region, left at least 20 Indian soldiers dead, while Beijing didn’t disclose the number of fatalities on its side.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US federal agencies have been given 30 days ultimatum by the White House to ensure no government devices and systems have the Chinese video sharing app TikTok.

The US federal agencies have been given 30 days ultimatum by the White House to ensure no government devices and systems have the Chinese video sharing app TikTok. In a bid to keep US data safe, all federal agencies must eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters news agency. On Tuesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will vote on a bill that would give President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all US devices. The order comes almost a year after Congress voted to prohibit federal employees from using the Chinese-owned app on government devices and gave the Biden administration 60 days to enforce the ban. The vote comes in the wake of security concerns raised by US lawmakers that Beijing uses Chinese companies to snoop on Americans. Canada bans TikTok on government devices over security risks "My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee's chair, said. "Anyone with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information. It’s a spy balloon into your phone." Many government agencies had already banned TikTok from government devices before the vote. They include the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department. The US is the latest entrant to ban TikTok from being installed on government devices. Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of the US states had already taken necessary action in this regard. India went a step further and banned the video-sharing app for commercial proposes in the wake of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. The brawl between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, a Himalayan border region, left at least 20 Indian soldiers dead, while Beijing didn’t disclose the number of fatalities on its side. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House gives US federal agencies 30 days to enforce TikTok ban

Eric Garcetti's candidature is expected to be heard on Tuesday (February 28) by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, more than a year after he was initially considered as a potential American ambassador to India in&nbsp;2021.&nbsp;

Garcetti, who was put&nbsp;forth by US&nbsp;President Joseph Biden to serve as ambassador to India, suffered yet another setback when a prominent Republican Senator put a hold on his confirmation, citing him as one of several "questionable" nominees.

Six additional nominations were also put on hold by Senator Marco Rubio, including that of Richard Verma, a former US ambassador to India, just days prior&nbsp;to a hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that was set for Tuesday. The confirmation procedures for Garcetti, Verma, and others would have to be postponed indefinitely until the problem is fixed, even though the Committee hearing may still go on, as reported by the Indian Express.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden and Garcetti: Political allies&nbsp;</h2>

In July 2021, Garcetti was named as the White House's choice for India, but his appointment was delayed due to charges of sexual harassment against his aide Rick Jacobs.&nbsp;

The appointment of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the United States ambassador to India was originally announced by President Joe Biden in May 2021, according to news organisation Axios.

Garcetti, 50, served as co-chair of Biden's election campaign and is still one of the President's most significant political allies. He was supposed to be a member of Biden's cabinet, but the scandal surrounding Rick Jacobs is alleged to have derailed those plans, as per AFP reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haley-makes-big-claim-on-covid-19-demands-aid-cut-to-communist-china-566630">Nikki Haley makes big claim on COVID-19, demands aid cut to 'communist' China</a>

Subsequently, American political circles perceived the potential selection of Garcetti, the mayor of the country's second-largest city by population (after New York City), as India's ambassador as a reward for one of the president's steadfast political allies.

Garcetti, who had three years prior given the idea of running for president some thought, backed Biden for the 2020 Democratic candidature on January 9, 2020. The selection committee to choose the presumed Democratic nominee's running mate picked Garcetti at the end of April of last year.

He was named as a candidate for the Biden Administration's position of secretary of transportation in November 2020. Black Lives Matter organised large-scale demonstrations against the nomination in Los Angeles, and Mayor Garcetti revealed that he had declined a job offer from Vice President-elect Biden without going into further detail, as reported by the&nbsp;Indian Express.

In March 2017, Garcetti was re-elected mayor for a five-and-a-half-year term. The election to choose his successor was set to take place in the fall of 2022. He is only permitted to serve two terms in office per local legislation. Los Angeles' mayor at the moment is a Democrat named Karen Bass.

<h2>The controversy surrounding Garcetti</h2>

A former bodyguard, Matthew Garza, filed a sexual harassment case against Jacobs that damaged Garcetti's chances for a Cabinet position before and the ambassadorial position currently.

While Garcetti was the mayor of Los Angeles from 2013 until 2022, Jacobs was his aide. According to reports, Jacobs gave people unsolicited hugs, massages, and lewd sex banter, as reported by the Week.

Further claims against Jacobs surfaced in various press reports and deposition testimony, after which more people have come forward to level similar charges against him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/in-the-us-yet-more-evidence-of-growing-indian-american-clout-566629">In the US, yet more evidence of growing Indian-American clout</a>

Garcetti has said that he was unaware of Jacobs' sexual misconduct and has testified under oath in front of the Senate to this effect. It was "extremely unlikely," according to a report written by Republican Senator Charles E. Grassley in May 2022, that Garcetti was oblivious of the aide's allegedly inappropriate behaviour.

The White House, however, stated that President Joe Biden backs Garcetti. “This partisan report was a hit job from the beginning, and many of the claims have already been conclusively debunked by more serious independent reports,” the White House said.&nbsp;

<h2>Marco Rubio's stance</h2>

Republican US Senator Marco Rubio stated last week that he would also impose a hold on Garcetti due to the latter's ignorance of credible sexual assault allegations in his prior office, as reported by the Indian Express.

“I will not turn a blind eye to these absurd nominations, which will hasten America’s decline,” Rubio said in a statement on Friday. Rubio’s move will be another hurdle for Garcetti’s nomination, which had lapsed last year.

<h2>What next ?</h2>

The Senate's failure to appoint Biden's nominee for the position, Garcetti, has resulted in the vacancy in the position of US ambassador to India lasting for over two years.

Analysts have previously noted that the record-long vacancy occurs as US-India ties enter their "most critical phase," and that from America's standpoint, a long-term vision of the strategic partnership was needed, as reported by the Print.&nbsp;

It also appears doubtful that Biden will withdraw Garcetti's nomination and propose a different candidate. The White House stated that Garcetti's nomination was a "priority" on December 15 and that it will continue to support him. This was one week after Democrats gained a majority in the Senate, the Print reported.&nbsp;

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Eric Garcetti's candidature is expected to be heard on Tuesday (February 28) by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, more than a year after he was initially considered as a potential American ambassador to India in 2021.

Eric Garcetti's candidature is expected to be heard on Tuesday (February 28) by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, more than a year after he was initially considered as a potential American ambassador to India in 2021. Garcetti, who was put forth by US President Joseph Biden to serve as ambassador to India, suffered yet another setback when a prominent Republican Senator put a hold on his confirmation, citing him as one of several "questionable" nominees. Six additional nominations were also put on hold by Senator Marco Rubio, including that of Richard Verma, a former US ambassador to India, just days prior to a hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that was set for Tuesday. The confirmation procedures for Garcetti, Verma, and others would have to be postponed indefinitely until the problem is fixed, even though the Committee hearing may still go on, as reported by the Indian Express. Biden and Garcetti: Political allies In July 2021, Garcetti was named as the White House's choice for India, but his appointment was delayed due to charges of sexual harassment against his aide Rick Jacobs. The appointment of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the United States ambassador to India was originally announced by President Joe Biden in May 2021, according to news organisation Axios. Garcetti, 50, served as co-chair of Biden's election campaign and is still one of the President's most significant political allies. He was supposed to be a member of Biden's cabinet, but the scandal surrounding Rick Jacobs is alleged to have derailed those plans, as per AFP reports. ALSO READ | Nikki Haley makes big claim on COVID-19, demands aid cut to 'communist' China Subsequently, American political circles perceived the potential selection of Garcetti, the mayor of the country's second-largest city by population (after New York City), as India's ambassador as a reward for one of the president's steadfast political allies. Garcetti, who had three years prior given the idea of running for president some thought, backed Biden for the 2020 Democratic candidature on January 9, 2020. The selection committee to choose the presumed Democratic nominee's running mate picked Garcetti at the end of April of last year. He was named as a candidate for the Biden Administration's position of secretary of transportation in November 2020. Black Lives Matter organised large-scale demonstrations against the nomination in Los Angeles, and Mayor Garcetti revealed that he had declined a job offer from Vice President-elect Biden without going into further detail, as reported by the Indian Express. In March 2017, Garcetti was re-elected mayor for a five-and-a-half-year term. The election to choose his successor was set to take place in the fall of 2022. He is only permitted to serve two terms in office per local legislation. Los Angeles' mayor at the moment is a Democrat named Karen Bass. The controversy surrounding Garcetti A former bodyguard, Matthew Garza, filed a sexual harassment case against Jacobs that damaged Garcetti's chances for a Cabinet position before and the ambassadorial position currently. While Garcetti was the mayor of Los Angeles from 2013 until 2022, Jacobs was his aide. According to reports, Jacobs gave people unsolicited hugs, massages, and lewd sex banter, as reported by the Week. Further claims against Jacobs surfaced in various press reports and deposition testimony, after which more people have come forward to level similar charges against him. ALSO READ | In the US, yet more evidence of growing Indian-American clout Garcetti has said that he was unaware of Jacobs' sexual misconduct and has testified under oath in front of the Senate to this effect. It was "extremely unlikely," according to a report written by Republican Senator Charles E. Grassley in May 2022, that Garcetti was oblivious of the aide's allegedly inappropriate behaviour. The White House, however, stated that President Joe Biden backs Garcetti. “This partisan report was a hit job from the beginning, and many of the claims have already been conclusively debunked by more serious independent reports,” the White House said. Marco Rubio's stance Republican US Senator Marco Rubio stated last week that he would also impose a hold on Garcetti due to the latter's ignorance of credible sexual assault allegations in his prior office, as reported by the Indian Express. “I will not turn a blind eye to these absurd nominations, which will hasten America’s decline,” Rubio said in a statement on Friday. Rubio’s move will be another hurdle for Garcetti’s nomination, which had lapsed last year. What next ? The Senate's failure to appoint Biden's nominee for the position, Garcetti, has resulted in the vacancy in the position of US ambassador to India lasting for over two years. Analysts have previously noted that the record-long vacancy occurs as US-India ties enter their "most critical phase," and that from America's standpoint, a long-term vision of the strategic partnership was needed, as reported by the Print. It also appears doubtful that Biden will withdraw Garcetti's nomination and propose a different candidate. The White House stated that Garcetti's nomination was a "priority" on December 15 and that it will continue to support him. This was one week after Democrats gained a majority in the Senate, the Print reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | What is the controversy surrounding Eric Garcetti? Biden's pick for US envoy to India

Biden administration on Monday (February 27) announced steps to reign in "alarming" increase in child labour in the country. Since 2018, the number of illegally employed minors has by two thirds. This uptick in child labour has coincided with massive influx of unaccompanied children who were trying to escape poverty and violence in Latin America. In last fiscal year alone, 130,000 children were referred to US government shelters.

"This is not a 19th century problem -- this is a today problem," Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said in a statement, calling for a vast mobilization of resources to tackle the problem.

"We need Congress to come to the table, we need states to come to the table."

In the last fiscal year, the Department of Labor identified 835 companies that employed 3800 children in violation of the law. There was a 26 per cent rise in children hired specifically for dangerous jobs.

To try to curb the rise, a joint taskforce by the Department of Labor and the Department of Health and Human Services -- responsible for unaccompanied minors arriving in the country -- will seek to improve information sharing between the two agencies.

A parallel initiative by the Labor Department will focus on better enforcement of existing laws, especially in regions and industries where offenses are most widespread.

The department also vowed to hold companies accountable if contractors and temp agencies are found to be using child labor. 
"Too often, companies look the other way and claim that their staffing agency, or their subcontractor or supplier is responsible," Walsh was quoted as saying.

According to existing laws, the maximum fine for breaking child labor laws is $15,138 per case.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Biden administration on Monday (February 27) announced steps to reign in "alarming" increase in child labour in the country. Since 2018, the number of illegally employed minors has by two thirds.

Biden administration on Monday (February 27) announced steps to reign in "alarming" increase in child labour in the country. Since 2018, the number of illegally employed minors has by two thirds. This uptick in child labour has coincided with massive influx of unaccompanied children who were trying to escape poverty and violence in Latin America. In last fiscal year alone, 130,000 children were referred to US government shelters. "This is not a 19th century problem -- this is a today problem," Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said in a statement, calling for a vast mobilization of resources to tackle the problem. "We need Congress to come to the table, we need states to come to the table." In the last fiscal year, the Department of Labor identified 835 companies that employed 3800 children in violation of the law. There was a 26 per cent rise in children hired specifically for dangerous jobs. To try to curb the rise, a joint taskforce by the Department of Labor and the Department of Health and Human Services -- responsible for unaccompanied minors arriving in the country -- will seek to improve information sharing between the two agencies. A parallel initiative by the Labor Department will focus on better enforcement of existing laws, especially in regions and industries where offenses are most widespread. The department also vowed to hold companies accountable if contractors and temp agencies are found to be using child labor. "Too often, companies look the other way and claim that their staffing agency, or their subcontractor or supplier is responsible," Walsh was quoted as saying. According to existing laws, the maximum fine for breaking child labor laws is $15,138 per case. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US moves to contain 'alarming' increase in child labour

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Monday refuted a US Department of Energy assessment report that claimed the COVID-19 pandemic most likely came from a lab leak in China and said that the "origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicised."&nbsp;

Mao Ning in a regular press conference said, "The origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicized. China has always supported and participated in global science-based origins-tracing."&nbsp;

She also said that “a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely” in a "science-based, authoritative conclusion reached by the experts of the WHO-China joint mission after field trips to the lab in Wuhan and in-depth communication with researchers."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-stargazers-awestruck-as-captivating-northern-lights-gleam-across-scotland-ireland-and-england-566411">Stargazers awestruck as captivating Northern Lights gleam across Scotland, Ireland and England</a>

Over US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's remarks on China&nbsp;providing assistance to Russia through its companies, Ning said, the US is in "no position to point fingers" as the country itself has been selling "sophisticated weapons to the Taiwan region in violation of the three China-US joint communique."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-drug-lord-gets-plastic-surgery-to-look-like-handsome-korean-man-police-bust-narcotics-racket-566466">Thai drug lord gets plastic surgery to look like 'handsome' Korean man, police bust narcotics racket</a>

US sanctioned several Chinese companies on 24 February, one year of Ukraine's war anniversary, citing their involvement with Russia. Ning called on the US to "reflect on its behaviour" and "do something that will actually help de-escalate&nbsp;the situation and get peace talks going."&nbsp;

She added that&nbsp;China’s position on Ukraine war has been "objective and fair" and the country have actively promoted peace talks and sought a political solution. "The US, however, has been fanning the flame and fueling the fight with more weaponry."&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-couple-gives-birth-to-momo-twins-566290">Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins</a>

"The US also needs to stop spreading disinformation and withdraw sanctions on Chinese companies. The Chinese side will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. We will take resolute countermeasures in response to the US sanctions," Ning said.

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Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Monday refuted a US Department of Energy assessment report that claimed the COVID-19 pandemic most likely came from a lab leak in China and said that the "origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicised.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Monday refuted a US Department of Energy assessment report that claimed the COVID-19 pandemic most likely came from a lab leak in China and said that the "origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicised." Mao Ning in a regular press conference said, "The origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicized. China has always supported and participated in global science-based origins-tracing." She also said that “a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely” in a "science-based, authoritative conclusion reached by the experts of the WHO-China joint mission after field trips to the lab in Wuhan and in-depth communication with researchers." Also Read | Stargazers awestruck as captivating Northern Lights gleam across Scotland, Ireland and England Over US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's remarks on China providing assistance to Russia through its companies, Ning said, the US is in "no position to point fingers" as the country itself has been selling "sophisticated weapons to the Taiwan region in violation of the three China-US joint communique." Also Read | Thai drug lord gets plastic surgery to look like 'handsome' Korean man, police bust narcotics racket US sanctioned several Chinese companies on 24 February, one year of Ukraine's war anniversary, citing their involvement with Russia. Ning called on the US to "reflect on its behaviour" and "do something that will actually help de-escalate the situation and get peace talks going." She added that China’s position on Ukraine war has been "objective and fair" and the country have actively promoted peace talks and sought a political solution. "The US, however, has been fanning the flame and fueling the fight with more weaponry." Watch | Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins "The US also needs to stop spreading disinformation and withdraw sanctions on Chinese companies. The Chinese side will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. We will take resolute countermeasures in response to the US sanctions," Ning said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China dismisses US energy department's lab-leak report on COVID-19 origin

Indian-American Republican Presidential candidate Nikki Haley has vowed that if voted to power, she will cut every cent in foreign aid for countries which hate America.

GOP candidate Nikki Haley vows to cut foreign aid to anti-American countries

China accused the U.S. of "illegal" sanctions on Chinese companies as part of actions against Russia's Wagner Group and related companies and individuals.

China: U.S. sanctions on Chinese firms over Russia exports are illegal

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - A classified and updated document presented to the U.S. lawmakers and White House has claimed that the Covid-19 virus emerged from a lab leak.

Trending on WION: U.S. energy department's report claims Covid-19 was likely a result of lab leak

Hundreds of newspapers across the United States said they will stop publishing the cartoon “Dilbert” after its creator Scott Adams went on what is being described as a racist rant on Youtube, last week. This comes after he called Black Americans a “hate group” and suggested that White people should “to get the hell away from Black people.” The comments were made in response to a poll conducted by a conservative organization’s poll which supposedly showed that many African Americans do not think it’s OK to be white.&nbsp;

“Dilbert” is a popular comic in the US which mocks the office and workplace culture. The once-popular comic strip that was launched in 1989 will no longer be carried by multiple media outlets, in light of these remarks, the newspapers announced in statements on Friday and Saturday. Some of the newspapers include The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and so on.&nbsp;

Additionally,&nbsp;distributor Andrews McMeel Universal, on Sunday (February 26) also announced that they are "severing" ties with Adams over his recent comments. In a joint statement, company&nbsp;Chairman Hugh Andrews and CEO and President Andy Sareyan said while the company values free speech but it will "never support any commentary rooted in discrimination or hate". It added, "Recent comments by Scott Adams regarding race and race relations do not align with our core values as a company".&nbsp;

“If nearly half of all Blacks are not OK with white people - according to this poll, not according to me, according to this poll - that’s a hate group”, said the creator on his Youtube show ‘Real Coffee with Scott Adams’, on Wednesday.&nbsp;

He added, “I don’t want to have anything to do with them…And I would say, based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to White people is to get the hell away from Black people, just get the f**k away”.&nbsp;

The video began with Adams talking about Republican Vivek Ramaswamy’s presidential bid and minutes later, citing the results of a recent public opinion poll, conducted by Rasmussen Reports, which is said to be a conservative firm. The group reportedly surveyed thousands of Americans via telephone and online with the question, “Do you agree or disagree with this statement, ‘It's OK to be white’?”&nbsp;

According to the poll, 53 per cent of Black Americans agreed with the statement, “It’s OK to be White.” However, it has been noted that the phrase “It's OK to be white” has been used on right-wing websites and speeches which the Anti-Defamation League has also denounced as a hate chant. The organisation has also noted that the phrase emerged on the infamous message board 4chan six years ago as a trolling campaign which has a history in the white supremacist movement.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Hundreds of newspapers across the United States said they will stop publishing the cartoon “Dilbert” after its creator Scott Adams went on what is being described as a racist rant on Youtube, last week.

Hundreds of newspapers across the United States said they will stop publishing the cartoon “Dilbert” after its creator Scott Adams went on what is being described as a racist rant on Youtube, last week. This comes after he called Black Americans a “hate group” and suggested that White people should “to get the hell away from Black people.” The comments were made in response to a poll conducted by a conservative organization’s poll which supposedly showed that many African Americans do not think it’s OK to be white. “Dilbert” is a popular comic in the US which mocks the office and workplace culture. The once-popular comic strip that was launched in 1989 will no longer be carried by multiple media outlets, in light of these remarks, the newspapers announced in statements on Friday and Saturday. Some of the newspapers include The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and so on. Additionally, distributor Andrews McMeel Universal, on Sunday (February 26) also announced that they are "severing" ties with Adams over his recent comments. In a joint statement, company Chairman Hugh Andrews and CEO and President Andy Sareyan said while the company values free speech but it will "never support any commentary rooted in discrimination or hate". It added, "Recent comments by Scott Adams regarding race and race relations do not align with our core values as a company". “If nearly half of all Blacks are not OK with white people - according to this poll, not according to me, according to this poll - that’s a hate group”, said the creator on his Youtube show ‘Real Coffee with Scott Adams’, on Wednesday. He added, “I don’t want to have anything to do with them…And I would say, based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to White people is to get the hell away from Black people, just get the f**k away”. The video began with Adams talking about Republican Vivek Ramaswamy’s presidential bid and minutes later, citing the results of a recent public opinion poll, conducted by Rasmussen Reports, which is said to be a conservative firm. The group reportedly surveyed thousands of Americans via telephone and online with the question, “Do you agree or disagree with this statement, ‘It's OK to be white’?” According to the poll, 53 per cent of Black Americans agreed with the statement, “It’s OK to be White.” However, it has been noted that the phrase “It's OK to be white” has been used on right-wing websites and speeches which the Anti-Defamation League has also denounced as a hate chant. The organisation has also noted that the phrase emerged on the infamous message board 4chan six years ago as a trolling campaign which has a history in the white supremacist movement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Dilbert’ distributor severs ties with creator Scott Adams over racist comments

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