In pics | Joe Biden pays surprise visit to Kyiv, ahead of Russia-Ukraine war anniversary

The U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting Quake-hit Turkey. He has announced fresh aid for the quake-hit Turkiye. The devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria earlier this month have claimed over 46,000 lives so far.

US Secretary of State announces fresh set of aid for Turkey

Multinational beverage giant, Pepsico has recalled over 25,000 bottles of Starbucks vanilla drink in U.S. in an action that was initiated on January 28. After recovering pieces of glass in some of the bottles, the company has recalled drinks.

Pepsico recalls over 25,000 cases of Starbucks Chilled Coffee

A day after North Korea showed off its new missiles, the U.S., Japan and South Korea have held joint air exercises. The drills saw South Korea's F-35 and F-15 and the United States' F-16.

A day after North Korea's ICBM launch, US, South Korea & Japan stage joint air drills

A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. This comes weeks after Ukraine’s allies in the West,&nbsp;after months of discussion, approved sending tanks to Kyiv amid its conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, France, on Sunday (February 19) said that it will begin delivering the armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by next weekend.&nbsp;

US lawmakers back Kyiv on the sidelines&nbsp;of Munich Security Conference

In what members called the largest number of US lawmakers sent to attend the security conference since it began in 1953, Washington has demonstrated clear bipartisan support for Ukraine. Notably, there are four delegations from the House of Representatives and the Senate combined at this year’s MSC from Washington which includes both Democrats and Republicans.&nbsp;

Speaking to Reuters, Senator Mark Kelly said, “They (Ukrainian officials) told us that they want (F-16s) to suppress enemy air defenses so they could get their drones”. Additionally, representatives from Kyiv also said that these aircraft would boost their ability to hit Russian missile units. This comes a month after the US president said “no” to sending fighter jets to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-munich-security-conference-blinken-and-wang-hold-candid-talks-amid-balloon-spat-563646">LIVE Munich Security Conference: Blinken and Wang hold 'candid talks' amid balloon spat</a>

In addition to the aforementioned senator, three other lawmakers during the interview also spoke about how Ukrainian officials told them that they believed that there was growing support in Congress for sending F-16s to Kyiv. Since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine almost a year ago, Washington has sent AGM-88 air-to-surface rockets which Kyiv’s air force fires from their Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets.&nbsp;

However, during the lobbying which took place over the weekend, Ukrainian officials who have not been identified as per Kelly said, “They contended that they need that airplane for the SEAD (suppression of enemy air defences) mission”. He added that Kyiv probably thinks they can do a better job at taking out the Russian S-400s. They will take at least one year of training to master all of the F-16’s capabilities but in the meantime, Ukrainian pilots could be taught a “limited number of things...in a few months,” said the US senator, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-russia-to-be-defeated-in-war-against-ukraine-not-crushed-says-frances-macron-563649">Want Russia to be ‘defeated’ in war against Ukraine, not ‘crushed’, says France’s Macron</a>

While support for Ukraine by its western allies was reaffirmed during the MSC, they have been reluctant to use their air power in a significant way since the conflict began. This comes after there has been growing support from several countries about providing Kyiv with NATO-standard jet fighters with the United Kingdom reportedly saying they would provide training. Ukraine has recently sought advanced fighter jets after its allies in the West agreed to send over 300 tanks amid its conflict with Russia, said Kyiv’s ambassador to France, last month.&nbsp;

France to send “light tanks” to Ukraine by next week

Earlier today, France said that it would begin delivering its AMX-10 armoured vehicles which are also described as “light tanks” and are said to be used for armed reconnaissance and conducted attacks on enemy tanks. As per the French defence ministry, the vehicles whose combat weight is around 20 tonnes are highly mobile, “powerfully armed” and offer protection against light infantry fire.&nbsp;

In an interview with the French newspaper Le Parisien, the country’s Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that the first of these vehicles will be sent to Kyiv “by the end of next week”. He also declined to comment on the exact number of AMX-10s that are going to be sent in the first batch as he did not want to give Russia any “strategic information”, reported AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>

This comes after President Emmanuel Macron promised to send their “light tanks”&nbsp;in early January after months of reluctance by France and its allies over fears that increased weapons deliveries could further escalate the conflict. Addressing Kyiv’s request for fighter jets, the defence minister said that the question is “not taboo” but such military aid poses complex “logistical and practical questions”.

Meanwhile, Lecornu said that the training of Ukrainian troops on the AMX-10 was “nearly complete” and that&nbsp;military personnel’s overall training is “intensifying” in both France and fellow NATO member Poland. He added, starting next month, 600 Ukrainian troops would undergo training every month.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv.

A report by Reuters citing United States lawmakers said that Ukrainian officials have urged them on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), late Saturday to press President Joe Biden’s administration for sending F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv. This comes weeks after Ukraine’s allies in the West, after months of discussion, approved sending tanks to Kyiv amid its conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, France, on Sunday (February 19) said that it will begin delivering the armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by next weekend. US lawmakers back Kyiv on the sidelines of Munich Security Conference In what members called the largest number of US lawmakers sent to attend the security conference since it began in 1953, Washington has demonstrated clear bipartisan support for Ukraine. Notably, there are four delegations from the House of Representatives and the Senate combined at this year’s MSC from Washington which includes both Democrats and Republicans. Speaking to Reuters, Senator Mark Kelly said, “They (Ukrainian officials) told us that they want (F-16s) to suppress enemy air defenses so they could get their drones”. Additionally, representatives from Kyiv also said that these aircraft would boost their ability to hit Russian missile units. This comes a month after the US president said “no” to sending fighter jets to Ukraine. ALSO READ | LIVE Munich Security Conference: Blinken and Wang hold 'candid talks' amid balloon spat In addition to the aforementioned senator, three other lawmakers during the interview also spoke about how Ukrainian officials told them that they believed that there was growing support in Congress for sending F-16s to Kyiv. Since the beginning of what Moscow has called its “special military operation” in Ukraine almost a year ago, Washington has sent AGM-88 air-to-surface rockets which Kyiv’s air force fires from their Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets. However, during the lobbying which took place over the weekend, Ukrainian officials who have not been identified as per Kelly said, “They contended that they need that airplane for the SEAD (suppression of enemy air defences) mission”. He added that Kyiv probably thinks they can do a better job at taking out the Russian S-400s. They will take at least one year of training to master all of the F-16’s capabilities but in the meantime, Ukrainian pilots could be taught a “limited number of things...in a few months,” said the US senator, as per Reuters. ALSO READ | Want Russia to be ‘defeated’ in war against Ukraine, not ‘crushed’, says France’s Macron While support for Ukraine by its western allies was reaffirmed during the MSC, they have been reluctant to use their air power in a significant way since the conflict began. This comes after there has been growing support from several countries about providing Kyiv with NATO-standard jet fighters with the United Kingdom reportedly saying they would provide training. Ukraine has recently sought advanced fighter jets after its allies in the West agreed to send over 300 tanks amid its conflict with Russia, said Kyiv’s ambassador to France, last month. France to send “light tanks” to Ukraine by next week Earlier today, France said that it would begin delivering its AMX-10 armoured vehicles which are also described as “light tanks” and are said to be used for armed reconnaissance and conducted attacks on enemy tanks. As per the French defence ministry, the vehicles whose combat weight is around 20 tonnes are highly mobile, “powerfully armed” and offer protection against light infantry fire. In an interview with the French newspaper Le Parisien, the country’s Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that the first of these vehicles will be sent to Kyiv “by the end of next week”. He also declined to comment on the exact number of AMX-10s that are going to be sent in the first batch as he did not want to give Russia any “strategic information”, reported AFP. ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate This comes after President Emmanuel Macron promised to send their “light tanks” in early January after months of reluctance by France and its allies over fears that increased weapons deliveries could further escalate the conflict. Addressing Kyiv’s request for fighter jets, the defence minister said that the question is “not taboo” but such military aid poses complex “logistical and practical questions”. Meanwhile, Lecornu said that the training of Ukrainian troops on the AMX-10 was “nearly complete” and that military personnel’s overall training is “intensifying” in both France and fellow NATO member Poland. He added, starting next month, 600 Ukrainian troops would undergo training every month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine pushes US lawmakers for F-16s; France to send ‘light tanks’ to Kyiv by ‘end of next week’

Scientists at the United States-based NASA have found “one of the most elongated asteroids” ever pictured by their planetary radar. The space agency said that the asteroid flew past Earth at a safe distance, earlier this month, but what caught their attention was the odd shape which they described as oblong. The asteroid was being closely tracked by the scientists at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, US who made “invaluable observations to help determine its size, rotation, surface details, and, most notably, shape,” said the space agency in a press release.&nbsp;

The asteroid in question is called 2011 AG5 whose close approach on February 3 gave scientists the opportunity to get a detailed look at the celestial object first discovered in 2011. The asteroid is said to be 1600 feet long and about 500 feet wide and its dimensions are comparable to the Empire State Building. The celestial object was seen by the powerful 230-foot (70-metre) Goldstone Solar System Radar antenna dish at the Deep Space Network's facility near Barstow, California, revealing the dimensions of this extremely elongated asteroid, said NASA.&nbsp;

The principal scientist at JPL who helped lead the observations, Lance Benner noted that there have been 1,040 near-Earth objects observed by planetary radar out of which 2011 AG5 has been “one of the most elongated we’ve seen”. The observations which took place at the end of last month and ended on February 4 also noted other details like a large, broad concavity in one of the asteroid’s two hemispheres and would appear as dark as charcoal if it were to be viewed by the human eye.&nbsp;

“The observations also confirmed 2011 AG5 has a slow rotation rate, taking nine hours to fully rotate,” said NASA. The space agency also confirmed that since the radar provides precise distance measurements, they believe that asteroid 2011 AG5 orbits the Sun once every 621 days. Earth will not have a close encounter with it until 2040 and even then it will pass at a distance of about 670,000 miles (1.1 million kilometres), it added.&nbsp;

“Interestingly, shortly after its discovery, 2011 AG5 became a poster-child asteroid when our analysis showed it had a small chance of a future impact,” said Paul Chodas, the director of NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) at JPL. He added, “Continued observations of this object ruled out any chance of impact, and these new ranging measurements by the planetary radar team will further refine exactly where it will be far into the future.” 
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Scientists at the United States-based NASA have found “one of the most elongated asteroids” ever pictured by their planetary radar. The space agency said that the asteroid flew past Earth at a safe distance, earlier this month, but what caught their attention was the odd shape which they described as oblong.

Scientists at the United States-based NASA have found “one of the most elongated asteroids” ever pictured by their planetary radar. The space agency said that the asteroid flew past Earth at a safe distance, earlier this month, but what caught their attention was the odd shape which they described as oblong. The asteroid was being closely tracked by the scientists at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, US who made “invaluable observations to help determine its size, rotation, surface details, and, most notably, shape,” said the space agency in a press release. The asteroid in question is called 2011 AG5 whose close approach on February 3 gave scientists the opportunity to get a detailed look at the celestial object first discovered in 2011. The asteroid is said to be 1600 feet long and about 500 feet wide and its dimensions are comparable to the Empire State Building. The celestial object was seen by the powerful 230-foot (70-metre) Goldstone Solar System Radar antenna dish at the Deep Space Network's facility near Barstow, California, revealing the dimensions of this extremely elongated asteroid, said NASA. The principal scientist at JPL who helped lead the observations, Lance Benner noted that there have been 1,040 near-Earth objects observed by planetary radar out of which 2011 AG5 has been “one of the most elongated we’ve seen”. The observations which took place at the end of last month and ended on February 4 also noted other details like a large, broad concavity in one of the asteroid’s two hemispheres and would appear as dark as charcoal if it were to be viewed by the human eye. “The observations also confirmed 2011 AG5 has a slow rotation rate, taking nine hours to fully rotate,” said NASA. The space agency also confirmed that since the radar provides precise distance measurements, they believe that asteroid 2011 AG5 orbits the Sun once every 621 days. Earth will not have a close encounter with it until 2040 and even then it will pass at a distance of about 670,000 miles (1.1 million kilometres), it added. “Interestingly, shortly after its discovery, 2011 AG5 became a poster-child asteroid when our analysis showed it had a small chance of a future impact,” said Paul Chodas, the director of NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) at JPL. He added, “Continued observations of this object ruled out any chance of impact, and these new ranging measurements by the planetary radar team will further refine exactly where it will be far into the future.” 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.

NASA team spots a 1600-foot oddly shaped asteroid as big as Empire State Building

The U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting Quake-hit Turkey. He will be meeting to the top leadership and discussing more ways in which Washington can assist the nation in dealing with the worst disaster in decades.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Quake-hit Turkey, to discuss aid supplied to Ankara

North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang claimed the successful "surprise" drill showed Pyongyang's capability to carry out a "fatal nuclear counterattack." The "sudden launching drill" was ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at 8:00 am Saturday (2300 GMT Friday), and a Hwasong-15 missile — a weapon originally tested by the North in 2017 — was fired from Pyongyang airport that afternoon, according to the official KCNA.

The ICBM was launched at 17:22 (08:22 GMT) on Saturday, according to South Korea's military, while Japan said it flew for 66 minutes before touching down in its Exclusive Economic Zone. Japan's inquiry found the missile could have hit the US mainland, as reported by AFP.

The test, the nation's first in seven weeks, was hailed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-daughter-attends-sports-event-in-rare-public-appearance-563448">North Korea's leadership</a>, who said it demonstrated "the actual war capacity of the ICBM units which are ready for a mobile and mighty counterattack," according to KCNA.

It was also said that the launch was "actual proof" of the nation's "capacity of fatal nuclear counterattack on the hostile forces."

"The exercise displayed the timely and immediate deployment of the US extended deterrence assets to the Korean peninsula," demonstrating the "overwhelming force" of the allies, the ministry said in a statement.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea fires another long range missile

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The North Korean launch, which breached sanctions, occurred just days before Seoul and Washington were scheduled to commence&nbsp;joint tabletop exercises aimed at strengthening their response in the event of a nuclear strike by North Korea.

Last week, Pyongyang warned of an "unprecedented" strong response to planned drills, which it sees as war preparations and linked to the deteriorating security situation on the Korean peninsula.

<h2 data-testid="Heading">US, South Korea demonstrate joint air exercise after North Korea's ICBM launch</h2>

A day after North Korea launched an ICBM, the Hwasong-15, in a "sudden launching drill," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oldest-living-former-us-president-jimmy-carter-to-receive-hospice-care-at-age-98-563550">United States</a> and South Korea conducted a combined air exercise with US strategic bombers.

The drill, which saw South Korean F-35A, F-15K, and American F-16 fighters join American B-1B bombers, was described by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff as displaying&nbsp;the allies' "overwhelming" defence capabilities and readiness posture.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ballistic-missile-fired-by-north-korea-says-south-korea-563367">Ahead of Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise, North Korea missile lands in Japan exclusive economic zone</a>

"(The exercise) strengthened the combined operation capability and affirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to the defence of the Korean Peninsula and the implementation of extended deterrence," the South's military said in a statement.

The joint military drill between the United States and South Korea takes place a day after North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile into the ocean off the west coast of Japan, despite warnings from South Korea and the United States that they would respond sternly to any future military exercises.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea.

North Korea announced on Sunday (February 19) that it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile as a warning to the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang claimed the successful "surprise" drill showed Pyongyang's capability to carry out a "fatal nuclear counterattack." The "sudden launching drill" was ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at 8:00 am Saturday (2300 GMT Friday), and a Hwasong-15 missile — a weapon originally tested by the North in 2017 — was fired from Pyongyang airport that afternoon, according to the official KCNA. The ICBM was launched at 17:22 (08:22 GMT) on Saturday, according to South Korea's military, while Japan said it flew for 66 minutes before touching down in its Exclusive Economic Zone. Japan's inquiry found the missile could have hit the US mainland, as reported by AFP. The test, the nation's first in seven weeks, was hailed by North Korea's leadership, who said it demonstrated "the actual war capacity of the ICBM units which are ready for a mobile and mighty counterattack," according to KCNA. It was also said that the launch was "actual proof" of the nation's "capacity of fatal nuclear counterattack on the hostile forces." "The exercise displayed the timely and immediate deployment of the US extended deterrence assets to the Korean peninsula," demonstrating the "overwhelming force" of the allies, the ministry said in a statement. ALSO WATCH | North Korea fires another long range missile The North Korean launch, which breached sanctions, occurred just days before Seoul and Washington were scheduled to commence joint tabletop exercises aimed at strengthening their response in the event of a nuclear strike by North Korea. Last week, Pyongyang warned of an "unprecedented" strong response to planned drills, which it sees as war preparations and linked to the deteriorating security situation on the Korean peninsula. US, South Korea demonstrate joint air exercise after North Korea's ICBM launch A day after North Korea launched an ICBM, the Hwasong-15, in a "sudden launching drill," the United States and South Korea conducted a combined air exercise with US strategic bombers. The drill, which saw South Korean F-35A, F-15K, and American F-16 fighters join American B-1B bombers, was described by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff as displaying the allies' "overwhelming" defence capabilities and readiness posture. ALSO READ | Ahead of Seoul-Washington joint tabletop exercise, North Korea missile lands in Japan exclusive economic zone "(The exercise) strengthened the combined operation capability and affirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to the defence of the Korean Peninsula and the implementation of extended deterrence," the South's military said in a statement. The joint military drill between the United States and South Korea takes place a day after North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile into the ocean off the west coast of Japan, despite warnings from South Korea and the United States that they would respond sternly to any future military exercises. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea says it fired ICBM as a warning; US, South Korea conduct joint military drill in retaliation

During a rare meeting with Beijing's senior diplomat, Wang Yi, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned China against giving "lethal support" for Russia's invasion of Ukraine and denounced the claimed Chinese spy balloon's infringement of US airspace.

Munich Security Summit | Antony Blinken: Balloon incident must never happen again

According to data, the United States of America is among the worst countries for racial equality and the latest imprisonment of Payton Gendron in the buffalo racist shooting has prompted conversation on racism in America and why is it on a rise? In this episode of WION Conversation, we decode what is inside America's social fabric and can the racial attitude be changed?

U.S. is among the worst countries for racial equality

Scientists have discovered the pieces of DNA which are said to act like “Bond villains” in helping cancers spread. The bits of genetic material known as extrachromosomal DNA or ecDNA were found by researchers working on an initiative known as the Cancer Grand Challenges, which is backed by Cancer Research in the United Kingdom and the United States National Cancer Institute. The team of researchers included chemists, biologists, geneticists, mathematicians, and immunologists based in London and California as well as other centres, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

The scientists also said that this ecDNA can help tumours to develop resistance to anti-cancer drugs, therefore, its discovery can revolutionise treatments of some of the most aggressive tumours affecting people today. Speaking to the Guardian, Professor Paul Mischel of California’s Stanford University, called the discovery of how these microscopic agents behave inside the human body a “game changer.”&nbsp;

He added, that they believe that this ecDNA is responsible for a “large number of the more advanced, most serious cancers” that people are suffering from today and if they can “block their activities, we can block the spread of these cancers.” Notably, these small circular pieces of genetic information can enable cancer cells to evolve rapidly and become more resistant to existing cancer treatments.&nbsp;

Furthermore, researchers also found that the ecDNA act as cancer-causing genes as they are somehow able to separate themselves from a person’s chromosomes and “have started to behave in ways that circumvent the normal rules of genetics” said Stanford University geneticist Howard Chang, as per the Guardian. He added, “They behave like villains in a Bond film. At first, in a film, you see different explosions, killings and disasters occurring and you don’t know why they are happening or who is responsible. Then, at some point, you finally meet the villain who is revealed to be the agent of all this mayhem.”

While these genes, known as oncogenes, can be targeted by a range of drugs and therapies it is their resistance to these methods which allows cancer to return, Professor Mischel explained. Researchers also found that in some of the most aggressive forms of cancer, the oncogenes were “actually on extrachromosomal DNA.”

He added, “The vulnerable gene had quickly disappeared when threatened by cancer drugs and was hidden in ecDNA. Then it reappeared once it was safe for it to start causing damage again”. Therefore, the researchers are now “looking to pinpoint the achilles heel of ecDNA and have identified a protein that helps hold it together”, said Chang, reported the Guardian. He also spoke about how the team has found the drug which has a “promising effect” on the identified protein and in a few years with a lot more testing he is sure that they will find the best way to tackle ecDNA. &nbsp; 
 
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Scientists have discovered the pieces of DNA which are said to act like “Bond villains” in helping cancers spread. The bits of genetic material known as extrachromosomal DNA or ecDNA were found by researchers working on an initiative known as the Cancer Grand Challenges, which is backed by Cancer Research in the United Kingdom and the United States National Cancer Institute.

Scientists have discovered the pieces of DNA which are said to act like “Bond villains” in helping cancers spread. The bits of genetic material known as extrachromosomal DNA or ecDNA were found by researchers working on an initiative known as the Cancer Grand Challenges, which is backed by Cancer Research in the United Kingdom and the United States National Cancer Institute. The team of researchers included chemists, biologists, geneticists, mathematicians, and immunologists based in London and California as well as other centres, reported the Guardian. The scientists also said that this ecDNA can help tumours to develop resistance to anti-cancer drugs, therefore, its discovery can revolutionise treatments of some of the most aggressive tumours affecting people today. Speaking to the Guardian, Professor Paul Mischel of California’s Stanford University, called the discovery of how these microscopic agents behave inside the human body a “game changer.” He added, that they believe that this ecDNA is responsible for a “large number of the more advanced, most serious cancers” that people are suffering from today and if they can “block their activities, we can block the spread of these cancers.” Notably, these small circular pieces of genetic information can enable cancer cells to evolve rapidly and become more resistant to existing cancer treatments. Furthermore, researchers also found that the ecDNA act as cancer-causing genes as they are somehow able to separate themselves from a person’s chromosomes and “have started to behave in ways that circumvent the normal rules of genetics” said Stanford University geneticist Howard Chang, as per the Guardian. He added, “They behave like villains in a Bond film. At first, in a film, you see different explosions, killings and disasters occurring and you don’t know why they are happening or who is responsible. Then, at some point, you finally meet the villain who is revealed to be the agent of all this mayhem.” While these genes, known as oncogenes, can be targeted by a range of drugs and therapies it is their resistance to these methods which allows cancer to return, Professor Mischel explained. Researchers also found that in some of the most aggressive forms of cancer, the oncogenes were “actually on extrachromosomal DNA.” He added, “The vulnerable gene had quickly disappeared when threatened by cancer drugs and was hidden in ecDNA. Then it reappeared once it was safe for it to start causing damage again”. Therefore, the researchers are now “looking to pinpoint the achilles heel of ecDNA and have identified a protein that helps hold it together”, said Chang, reported the Guardian. He also spoke about how the team has found the drug which has a “promising effect” on the identified protein and in a few years with a lot more testing he is sure that they will find the best way to tackle ecDNA. 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.

Scientists discover ‘Bond villain’ DNA, say it is ‘game changer’ for cancer treatment

What role have spies played in the Russia-Ukraine war? US claims Al Qaeda has got a new chief who resides in Iran & M 23 rebels capture the key city of Kitshanga in eastern DR Congo Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #WorldAtWar

World at War | Battle of the Spy Balloons between United States & China

US Vice President Kamala Harris speaking at the Munich Security Conference. Watch the video to know more on what the Vice President said.

Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris flags 'crimes against humanity' & 'civilian sufferings'

The United States has said that it has successfully concluded recovery efforts to retrieve the debris of a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon. The balloon was shot down by a US fighter jet in February 4th.

US recovers debris of Chinese balloon; FBI to analyse downed spy balloon

US Vice President Kamala Harris addresses Munich Security Conference

North Korea fired a ballistic missile yet again, after which South Korea said that Pyongyang fired an unspecific ballistic missile towards the Sea of its Eastern coast. Pyongyang earlier warned of a strong response to the upcoming U.S., South Korea military drills.

North Korea again fires ballistic missile days before US-South Korea military exercises

The five now former officers from the United States’ city of Memphis in Tennessee police department, who were involved in the death of the 29-year-old Black man, Tyre Nichols&nbsp; on Friday (February 17) pleaded not guilty on charges including second-degree murder. The traffic check descended into a police assault on Nichols, which took place on January 7 and three days later the 29-year-old succumbed to his injuries and passed away.&nbsp;

The arraignment took place on Friday in Shelby County Criminal Court for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-five-former-memphis-police-officers-charged-with-murder-in-tyre-nichols-death-556355">five Black police officers</a> Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills, Jr., Emmitt Martin III, and Justin Smith, who have been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct, and official oppression. The body camera footage which was released days after the incident shows Nichols being kicked, punched in the face and head, and assaulted with a baton by the police.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tyre-nichols-was-beaten-like-a-human-pinata-by-memphis-police-lawyer-says-555370">Tyre Nichols was beaten like a 'human piñata' by Memphis police, lawyer says</a>

The incident has since sparked protests across the US and renewed calls for action against police brutality. Addressing the court, the presiding Judge James Jones following the pleas asked both sides to be patient as the case may take time, as per media reports. This comes as the attorneys for the police officers have entered the not guilty pleas on behalf of their clients who are also out on bail.&nbsp;

Outside the court, speaking to the reporters, the victim’s mother, RowVaughn Wells said, “I feel very numb. I am waiting for this nightmare - waiting for someone to wake me up…I want each and every one of those officers to look me in the face. They didn't even have the courage to look at me.” Nichols’ family members were present in the courtroom for the hearing and were seen sitting at the back with their attorney Ben Crump.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-other-officers-three-fire-department-personnel-fired-over-tyre-nichols-case-heres-what-happened-557626">Two other officers, three fire department personnel dismissed after Tyre Nichols death: Here’s what happened</a>

The next hearing against the former police officers has been scheduled for May 1. Notably, if convicted of the murder charge, the former police officers can face up to 60 years in prison, as second-degree murder in Tennessee is considered a Class A felony. “We understand that there may be some high emotions in this case, but we ask that you continue to be patient with us,” said Jones, as per CNN.&nbsp;

He added, “Everyone involved wants this case to be concluded as quickly as possible. But it’s important for you all to understand that…each one of these defendants, have an absolute right to a fair trial. And I will not allow any behavior that could jeopardize that right.” The five former officers were also a part of the Memphis police department’s infamous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-memphis-controversial-scorpion-police-unit-and-its-connection-to-tyre-nichols-case-556773">SCORPION unit</a> which stands for “Street Crimes Operation to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods” and that has also since been disbanded.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The five now former officers from the United States’ city of Memphis in Tennessee police department, who were involved in the death of the 29-year-old Black man, Tyre Nichols on Friday (February 17) pleaded not guilty on charges including second-degree murder.

The five now former officers from the United States’ city of Memphis in Tennessee police department, who were involved in the death of the 29-year-old Black man, Tyre Nichols on Friday (February 17) pleaded not guilty on charges including second-degree murder. The traffic check descended into a police assault on Nichols, which took place on January 7 and three days later the 29-year-old succumbed to his injuries and passed away. The arraignment took place on Friday in Shelby County Criminal Court for five Black police officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills, Jr., Emmitt Martin III, and Justin Smith, who have been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct, and official oppression. The body camera footage which was released days after the incident shows Nichols being kicked, punched in the face and head, and assaulted with a baton by the police. ALSO READ | Tyre Nichols was beaten like a 'human piñata' by Memphis police, lawyer says The incident has since sparked protests across the US and renewed calls for action against police brutality. Addressing the court, the presiding Judge James Jones following the pleas asked both sides to be patient as the case may take time, as per media reports. This comes as the attorneys for the police officers have entered the not guilty pleas on behalf of their clients who are also out on bail. Outside the court, speaking to the reporters, the victim’s mother, RowVaughn Wells said, “I feel very numb. I am waiting for this nightmare - waiting for someone to wake me up…I want each and every one of those officers to look me in the face. They didn't even have the courage to look at me.” Nichols’ family members were present in the courtroom for the hearing and were seen sitting at the back with their attorney Ben Crump. ALSO READ | Two other officers, three fire department personnel dismissed after Tyre Nichols death: Here’s what happened The next hearing against the former police officers has been scheduled for May 1. Notably, if convicted of the murder charge, the former police officers can face up to 60 years in prison, as second-degree murder in Tennessee is considered a Class A felony. “We understand that there may be some high emotions in this case, but we ask that you continue to be patient with us,” said Jones, as per CNN. He added, “Everyone involved wants this case to be concluded as quickly as possible. But it’s important for you all to understand that…each one of these defendants, have an absolute right to a fair trial. And I will not allow any behavior that could jeopardize that right.” The five former officers were also a part of the Memphis police department’s infamous SCORPION unit which stands for “Street Crimes Operation to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods” and that has also since been disbanded. (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: Five former Memphis police officers charged in Tyre Nichols’ case plead not guilty

Tesla said that it is recalling more than 362,000 vehicles after U.S. regulators said that its full self-driving driver assistance system could actually result in crashes in real time without its software actually allowing vehicles to even exceed speed limit.

Tesla to recall over 362,000 U.S. vehicles, will update self-driving software

A special grand jury in the United States that is probing possible interference by the then President Donald Trump and his allies to overturn his 2020 election laws in Georgia has found no evidence of voter fraud.

2020 Georgia Elections: Grand jury rejects Trump's voter fraud claims; five pages of report released

While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her. Karen Decker, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, has now apologised for the post in which she referred to the "Black Girl Magic" movement. "Are Afghans familiar with Black Girl Magic and the movement it inspired? Do Afghan girls need a similar movement? What about Afghan Women?' 'Teach me, ready to learn. @Beyonce @lizzo @ReginaKing, (sic)," she had tweeted.&nbsp;

Her suggestion for Afghan women to draw inspiration from Beyonce and others even as the Taliban administration continues to shut them out of schools and workplaces did not go well. "Sometimes our best intentions go awry because we haven’t listened enough or don’t truly understand others’ lived experience. My efforts to celebrate courageous African Americans this month fall in that category. I apologize to any and all who I may have offended or hurt. (sic)," she wrote on Twitter as the apology followed the barrage of criticism. Violation of rights of the women in the South Asian country has been a matter of concern ever since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. &nbsp;The United Nations and world leaders have been vocal about women and girls not being treated as equals in the country despite the Taliban's assurance of change.&nbsp;

Outpouring of anger

Meanwhile, one of the many posts that were put out amid anger against Karen's tweet were: "Allow me to introduce you to America’s idiot of the day #USAmbKabul Karen Decker. &nbsp;Apparently, all we should know is that Abraham Lincoln “did some stuff”. Ms Decker, we salute you, a true moron through and through. (sic)."&nbsp;

The Black Girl Movement a couple of years ago was meant to spark conversation on the social identity of women of colour. &nbsp;People on social media questioned the comparison of the two situations by the diplomat. A user posted screenshots of the now-deleted tweets, saying: "Karen Decker, the Biden Admin’s Chargés d'affaires to Taliban-led Afghanistan, has deleted these bizarre tweets. (sic)" &nbsp;

"This Tweet is too weird, too personal, to have resulted from some kind of collective effort at DEI. This is a window into the actual mind of Karen Decker. It's remarkable. A rare document of how this all comes together in the strange minds of the people who rule us. (sic)," read another post that gave an idea of social media sentiments.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stands-with-afghanistan-in-time-of-need-says-nsa-ajit-doval-at-moscow-talks-560135">India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks</a> 
&nbsp;

This was not the only tweet by the US diplomat that drew anger. On former US president Abraham Lincoln's birthday, she wrote on Twitter: "Abe Lincoln born today in 1809. He did some stuff. It's also NAACP day, home of grassroots activism, inclusive communities and making sure Black voices are heard. What does that look like for Afghans struggling to be heard? #BlackHistoryMonth @NAACP @LincolnsCottage. (sic)"&nbsp;

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While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her.

While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her. Karen Decker, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, has now apologised for the post in which she referred to the "Black Girl Magic" movement. "Are Afghans familiar with Black Girl Magic and the movement it inspired? Do Afghan girls need a similar movement? What about Afghan Women?' 'Teach me, ready to learn. @Beyonce @lizzo @ReginaKing, (sic)," she had tweeted. Her suggestion for Afghan women to draw inspiration from Beyonce and others even as the Taliban administration continues to shut them out of schools and workplaces did not go well. "Sometimes our best intentions go awry because we haven’t listened enough or don’t truly understand others’ lived experience. My efforts to celebrate courageous African Americans this month fall in that category. I apologize to any and all who I may have offended or hurt. (sic)," she wrote on Twitter as the apology followed the barrage of criticism. Violation of rights of the women in the South Asian country has been a matter of concern ever since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The United Nations and world leaders have been vocal about women and girls not being treated as equals in the country despite the Taliban's assurance of change. Outpouring of anger Meanwhile, one of the many posts that were put out amid anger against Karen's tweet were: "Allow me to introduce you to America’s idiot of the day #USAmbKabul Karen Decker. Apparently, all we should know is that Abraham Lincoln “did some stuff”. Ms Decker, we salute you, a true moron through and through. (sic)." The Black Girl Movement a couple of years ago was meant to spark conversation on the social identity of women of colour. People on social media questioned the comparison of the two situations by the diplomat. A user posted screenshots of the now-deleted tweets, saying: "Karen Decker, the Biden Admin’s Chargés d'affaires to Taliban-led Afghanistan, has deleted these bizarre tweets. (sic)" "This Tweet is too weird, too personal, to have resulted from some kind of collective effort at DEI. This is a window into the actual mind of Karen Decker. It's remarkable. A rare document of how this all comes together in the strange minds of the people who rule us. (sic)," read another post that gave an idea of social media sentiments. Also read: India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks This was not the only tweet by the US diplomat that drew anger. On former US president Abraham Lincoln's birthday, she wrote on Twitter: "Abe Lincoln born today in 1809. He did some stuff. It's also NAACP day, home of grassroots activism, inclusive communities and making sure Black voices are heard. What does that look like for Afghans struggling to be heard? #BlackHistoryMonth @NAACP @LincolnsCottage. (sic)" 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.

'Best intentions go awry...': US envoy's apology over tweet on Afghan women

Two US defence corporations have been sanctioned by China's government for providing weapons to Taiwan, and their ability to import commodities and make new investments has been revoked, according to the country's ministry of commerce.

China sanctions Lockheed Martin and a unit of Raytheon

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region.&nbsp;

“Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US&nbsp;servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added.&nbsp;

While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty.&nbsp;

This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria.&nbsp;

Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.” 
&nbsp;

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The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region. “Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added. While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty. This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria. Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.” 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.

Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military

President Joe Biden stated on Thursday that he plans to meet with President Xi Jinping of China about what the US believes to be a Chinese surveillance balloon that was shot down by an American fighter jet earlier this month after flying over the US.

U.S. President Joe Biden defends taking down aerial objects

The US Marines will consider expanding the use of self-detonating drones, in the Indo-Pacific region, indicating these weapons could be deployed against Chinese warships at sea in a Taiwan crisis.

US to consider Indo-Pacific anti-ship drone, with eye on China

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