The Chinese foreign ministry has said that the 'spy balloon' seen over South America deviated from its intended path. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden is facing scathing attacks from Republicans over the handling of the saga. Molly Gambhir explains.

Gravitas: China admits to sending spy balloon to South America

U.S. President Joe Biden plans to seek re-election, but a majority of democrats think one term is enough for Biden. That’s according to a new poll from the associated press-'n-o-r-c'. This also comes ahead of President Joe Biden's second state of the union address later today.

Just 37% Democrats want Biden's second term

An internal investigation resulted in a two-day suspension of&nbsp;a SWAT member of the Los Angeles Police Department who was seen on body camera footage wishing his squad "happy hunting" prior to a deadly police shooting last year, according to LAPD disciplinary records.

Due to state privacy laws, the records that the Los Angeles Times obtained, solely refer to the officer by his rank as police officer III.

The cop made the statement while he and other SWAT members were gearing up to surround a gunman who was barricaded inside an apartment complex. According to the police, the suspect opened fire from a window and was killed when the policemen returned fire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-gauging-police-brutality-in-the-us-in-charts-557593">Data lab | Gauging police brutality in the US, in charts</a>

Officials from the department claim that the comment was recorded on a different officer's body camera and was discovered after a review of the incident's footage.

Critics of the NYPD pounced on the incident and said that it revealed a cruel and heartless attitude inside SWAT, according to the Times.

The unit's members have regularly displayed restraint and skill while addressing challenging and hazardous circumstances, according to Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore, who at the time expressed his discomfort about the "happy hunting" remark.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An internal investigation resulted in a two-day suspension of a SWAT member of the Los Angeles Police Department who was seen on body camera footage wishing his squad "happy hunting" prior to a deadly police shooting last year, according to LAPD disciplinary records.

An internal investigation resulted in a two-day suspension of a SWAT member of the Los Angeles Police Department who was seen on body camera footage wishing his squad "happy hunting" prior to a deadly police shooting last year, according to LAPD disciplinary records. Due to state privacy laws, the records that the Los Angeles Times obtained, solely refer to the officer by his rank as police officer III. The cop made the statement while he and other SWAT members were gearing up to surround a gunman who was barricaded inside an apartment complex. According to the police, the suspect opened fire from a window and was killed when the policemen returned fire. Also read | Data lab | Gauging police brutality in the US, in charts Officials from the department claim that the comment was recorded on a different officer's body camera and was discovered after a review of the incident's footage. Critics of the NYPD pounced on the incident and said that it revealed a cruel and heartless attitude inside SWAT, according to the Times. The unit's members have regularly displayed restraint and skill while addressing challenging and hazardous circumstances, according to Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore, who at the time expressed his discomfort about the "happy hunting" remark. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Los Angeles police officer who said ‘happy hunting’ before shooting suspended

A report by a U.S. conversation research group says that 40% of animals and 34% of plants in the United States are at risk of extinction. Not only this, over 41% of ecosystems are also facing collapse.

Plant & animal species in danger of disappearing in U.S.

Democrats feel one term is enough for Biden

Hillary Clinton is in India. The former U.S. Secretary of State announced a 50-million-dollar global climate resilience fund for women.

Hillary Clinton announces climate resilience fund for women

The suspected Chinese spy balloon which entered the United States’ airspace before being shot down by Washington was approximately 200 feet tall, while the payload under it weighed a couple of thousand pounds, said Air Force General Glen VanHerck, on Monday (February 5). Meanwhile, the US Coast Guard also imposed a temporary security zone off the coast of South Carolina as the military continues to search for the debris.&nbsp;

The head of the US North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and Northern Command (NORCOM) also said, “From a safety standpoint, picture yourself with large debris weighing hundreds if not thousands of pounds falling out of the sky…That’s really what we’re kind of talking about.”&nbsp;

He also noted how the high-altitude spy balloons briefly flew over the US at least three times in the past six years undetected which he referred to as a “domain awareness gap that we have to figure out.” However, no additional information including where over the US did the previous balloons fly was disclosed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-travelling-over-the-us-pentagon-says-558399">Suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over the US being tracked, Pentagon says</a>

Addressing a press conference, the air force general also spoke about the potential hazards including the glass on its solar panels, materials that are required for batteries to operate in such an environment, and even the “potential for explosives to detonate”. He added, “Anytime you down something like this, we make an assumption that that potential exists…We did not associate the potential of having explosives with a threat to dropping weapons.”&nbsp;

VanHerck also did not rule out the possibility of explosives on the balloon, which as per media reports, played a role in his decision to shoot it over open water. While several aircraft were involved in the operation, it was shot down by an F-22 fighter jet from Langley Air Force Base in Virginia at 2:39 pm using a single AIM-9X supersonic, heat-seeking, air-to-air missile, as per media reports.&nbsp;

“They have recovered some remnants off the surface of the sea and weather conditions did not permit much undersea surveillance of the debris field,” said National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, on Monday. He added that the US personnel will be able to better examine what is at the bottom of the ocean in the upcoming days but this is just the beginning.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shoots-down-chinese-balloon-over-the-atlantic-559055">U.S. shoots down Chinese balloon over the Atlantic</a>

The search for debris of what the US believes is a Chinese spy balloon and Beijing says is a weather monitoring device is underway after it was shot down by Washington’s fighter jets. It reportedly first passed into US airspace from the north of Alaska's Aleutian Islands on January 28 and was downed on Saturday (February 4) over the Atlantic Coast.&nbsp;

Since the discovery, the relations between the two countries have become strained, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, said that the incident had done nothing to improve the already escalating tensions between US and China. The balloon entering Washington’s airspace has since caused an uproar in the US which also prompted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to postpone his scheduled trip to Beijing on February 5 and 6 where both countries had hoped to somewhat stabilise their rocky relations.&nbsp;

However, US President Joe Biden had earlier said, “No. We made it clear to China what we're going to do. They understand our position. We're not going to back off. We did the right thing and it's not a question of weakening or strengthening - it's reality.” The statement was made in response to the effect this balloon would have on US-China relations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-reported-over-us-sky-after-chinese-spy-balloon-spotted-558709">Was Chinese spy balloon taken down by the US? Here’s what happened</a>

Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that nevertheless, Washington’s approach to relations with Beijing would remain calm. She added, “It's up to China to figure out what kind of relationship they want”. China, on the other hand, has since accused the US of using “indiscriminate force” as it shot the balloon down and “obviously overreacted” asking Washington to show restraint and warning about “serious repercussions”.&nbsp;

“This balloon is not American. The Chinese government will continue to defend its legitimate rights and interests”, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, on Tuesday, in response to a question whether Beijing had asked Washington to return the debris from the balloon&nbsp;it shot down.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The suspected Chinese spy balloon which entered the United States’ airspace before being shot down by Washington was approximately 200 feet tall, while the payload under it weighed a couple of thousand pounds, said Air Force General Glen VanHerck, on Monday (February 5).

The suspected Chinese spy balloon which entered the United States’ airspace before being shot down by Washington was approximately 200 feet tall, while the payload under it weighed a couple of thousand pounds, said Air Force General Glen VanHerck, on Monday (February 5). Meanwhile, the US Coast Guard also imposed a temporary security zone off the coast of South Carolina as the military continues to search for the debris. The head of the US North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and Northern Command (NORCOM) also said, “From a safety standpoint, picture yourself with large debris weighing hundreds if not thousands of pounds falling out of the sky…That’s really what we’re kind of talking about.” He also noted how the high-altitude spy balloons briefly flew over the US at least three times in the past six years undetected which he referred to as a “domain awareness gap that we have to figure out.” However, no additional information including where over the US did the previous balloons fly was disclosed. ALSO READ | Suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over the US being tracked, Pentagon says Addressing a press conference, the air force general also spoke about the potential hazards including the glass on its solar panels, materials that are required for batteries to operate in such an environment, and even the “potential for explosives to detonate”. He added, “Anytime you down something like this, we make an assumption that that potential exists…We did not associate the potential of having explosives with a threat to dropping weapons.” VanHerck also did not rule out the possibility of explosives on the balloon, which as per media reports, played a role in his decision to shoot it over open water. While several aircraft were involved in the operation, it was shot down by an F-22 fighter jet from Langley Air Force Base in Virginia at 2:39 pm using a single AIM-9X supersonic, heat-seeking, air-to-air missile, as per media reports. “They have recovered some remnants off the surface of the sea and weather conditions did not permit much undersea surveillance of the debris field,” said National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, on Monday. He added that the US personnel will be able to better examine what is at the bottom of the ocean in the upcoming days but this is just the beginning. ALSO WATCH | U.S. shoots down Chinese balloon over the Atlantic The search for debris of what the US believes is a Chinese spy balloon and Beijing says is a weather monitoring device is underway after it was shot down by Washington’s fighter jets. It reportedly first passed into US airspace from the north of Alaska's Aleutian Islands on January 28 and was downed on Saturday (February 4) over the Atlantic Coast. Since the discovery, the relations between the two countries have become strained, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, said that the incident had done nothing to improve the already escalating tensions between US and China. The balloon entering Washington’s airspace has since caused an uproar in the US which also prompted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to postpone his scheduled trip to Beijing on February 5 and 6 where both countries had hoped to somewhat stabilise their rocky relations. However, US President Joe Biden had earlier said, “No. We made it clear to China what we're going to do. They understand our position. We're not going to back off. We did the right thing and it's not a question of weakening or strengthening - it's reality.” The statement was made in response to the effect this balloon would have on US-China relations. ALSO READ | Was Chinese spy balloon taken down by the US? Here’s what happened Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that nevertheless, Washington’s approach to relations with Beijing would remain calm. She added, “It's up to China to figure out what kind of relationship they want”. China, on the other hand, has since accused the US of using “indiscriminate force” as it shot the balloon down and “obviously overreacted” asking Washington to show restraint and warning about “serious repercussions”. “This balloon is not American. The Chinese government will continue to defend its legitimate rights and interests”, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, on Tuesday, in response to a question whether Beijing had asked Washington to return the debris from the balloon it shot down. (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.

Chinese balloon was 200 feet tall with thousands of pounds of payload: US Air Force General

Several electrical substations in the Baltimore region were allegedly targeted and attacked&nbsp;by a Maryland woman and a Florida neo-Nazi leader, according to authorities on Monday (February 6). The suspects, Brandon Russell of Florida and Sarah Beth Clendaniel of Maryland, are accused of planning to shoot at electricity substations in Norrisville, Reisterstown, and Perry Hall, according to court filings.

Clendaniel&nbsp;planned to "completely destroy this whole city" and collaborated with&nbsp;Russell, who was recently arrested in Florida, to shoot out substations using "sniper attacks" to shut down the electrical grid. A picture of a woman identified by investigators as Clendaniel, who was holding a gun and wearing tactical gear displaying a swastika, was also included in the complaint, as reported by the Associated Press.

Russell has a lengthy history of connections with racist groups and Nazi ideologies, as well as previous threats to harm American infrastructure systems. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, Russell founded Atomwaffen Division, a "terrorist neo-Nazi organisation."&nbsp;

US&nbsp;Attorney Erek Barron praised investigators for disrupting hate-fueled violence

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-rules-a-ban-on-marijuana-users-owning-guns-is-unconstitutional-559363">US Judge rules ban on marijuana users owning guns as 'unconstitutional'</a>

“When we are united, hate cannot win,” he said at a news conference announcing the charges.

Authorities declined to put out the details of&nbsp;how the planned attack was meant to fulfill a racist agenda, but suggested the defendants wanted to bring attention to their cause.

The accusation claims that Russell has a long record of associations with hate groups and Nazi beliefs, as well as previous threats to target American infrastructure systems.

As reported by the Associated Press, it is unclear if Russell would receive any legal support.&nbsp;

Assaults or threats of attacks in recent months have increased concerns about safeguarding the nation's power grid.

Two men were detained in Washington State last month on suspicion of damaging substations weeks earlier during assaults that caused thousands of people to go without electricity during the holidays.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Several electrical substations in the Baltimore region were allegedly targeted and attacked by a Maryland woman and a Florida neo-Nazi leader, according to authorities on Monday (February 6).

Several electrical substations in the Baltimore region were allegedly targeted and attacked by a Maryland woman and a Florida neo-Nazi leader, according to authorities on Monday (February 6). The suspects, Brandon Russell of Florida and Sarah Beth Clendaniel of Maryland, are accused of planning to shoot at electricity substations in Norrisville, Reisterstown, and Perry Hall, according to court filings. Clendaniel planned to "completely destroy this whole city" and collaborated with Russell, who was recently arrested in Florida, to shoot out substations using "sniper attacks" to shut down the electrical grid. A picture of a woman identified by investigators as Clendaniel, who was holding a gun and wearing tactical gear displaying a swastika, was also included in the complaint, as reported by the Associated Press. Russell has a lengthy history of connections with racist groups and Nazi ideologies, as well as previous threats to harm American infrastructure systems. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, Russell founded Atomwaffen Division, a "terrorist neo-Nazi organisation." US Attorney Erek Barron praised investigators for disrupting hate-fueled violence Also read | US Judge rules ban on marijuana users owning guns as 'unconstitutional' “When we are united, hate cannot win,” he said at a news conference announcing the charges. Authorities declined to put out the details of how the planned attack was meant to fulfill a racist agenda, but suggested the defendants wanted to bring attention to their cause. The accusation claims that Russell has a long record of associations with hate groups and Nazi beliefs, as well as previous threats to target American infrastructure systems. As reported by the Associated Press, it is unclear if Russell would receive any legal support. Assaults or threats of attacks in recent months have increased concerns about safeguarding the nation's power grid. Two men were detained in Washington State last month on suspicion of damaging substations weeks earlier during assaults that caused thousands of people to go without electricity during the holidays. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Maryland woman along with neo-Nazi leader charged with attempting to disable Baltimore's power grid

US President Joe Biden is set to deliver his second State of the Union address on February 7. Biden will address a Joint Session of Congress at the United States Capitol and his speech will be broadcast by all major channels.

U.S. : Joe Biden to deliver his second State of the Union address

A federal judge in Oklahoma on Monday concluded a federal law prohibiting marijuana users from possessing guns is unconstitutional. US District Judge Patrick Wyrick on Friday dismissed an indictment that was passed last year against Jared Harrison, who was charged with violating that ban, saying that it infringes his right to bear arms under the Constitution's Second Amendment.&nbsp;

Wyrick said that the US government can protect the citizens from dangerous people possessing guns, but could not argue on Harrison's "mere status as a user of marijuana justifies stripping him of his fundamental right to possess a firearm." He added that the use of marijuana is "not in and of itself a violent, forceful, or threatening act," and highlighted that in Oklahoma the use of drugs is illegal under federal law, and can be legally bought for medical uses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/too-soon-california-hosts-a-gun-show-just-days-after-mass-shooting-nearby-claimed-11-lives-557269">Also read |&nbsp;'Too soon?': California hosts a gun show, just days after mass shooting nearby claimed 11 lives</a>

Wyrick wrote, "the mere use of marijuana carries none of the characteristics that the nation's history and tradition of firearms regulation supports."

A lawyer for Harrison argued that her client’s second amendment right to bear guns was violated by federal law and that makes it illegal for “unlawful users of controlled substances” to possess arms.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-government-drops-gun-bill-amendments-after-fierce-backlash-558660">Also read |&nbsp;Trudeau government drops gun bill amendments after fierce backlash</a>

This decision made the last instance of declaring gun regulations after the US Supreme Court's 6-3 conservation majority.&nbsp;

It came days later after a three-judge panel of the fifth US circuit court appealed in New Orleans on Thursday and ruled that the government cannot stop citizens who have domestic violence restraining orders from owning arms, AP reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A federal judge in Oklahoma on Monday concluded a federal law prohibiting marijuana users from possessing guns is unconstitutional. US District Judge Patrick Wyrick on Friday dismissed an indictment that was passed last year against Jared Harrison, who was charged with violating that ban, saying that it infringes his right to bear arms under the Constitution's Second Amendment.

A federal judge in Oklahoma on Monday concluded a federal law prohibiting marijuana users from possessing guns is unconstitutional. US District Judge Patrick Wyrick on Friday dismissed an indictment that was passed last year against Jared Harrison, who was charged with violating that ban, saying that it infringes his right to bear arms under the Constitution's Second Amendment. Wyrick said that the US government can protect the citizens from dangerous people possessing guns, but could not argue on Harrison's "mere status as a user of marijuana justifies stripping him of his fundamental right to possess a firearm." He added that the use of marijuana is "not in and of itself a violent, forceful, or threatening act," and highlighted that in Oklahoma the use of drugs is illegal under federal law, and can be legally bought for medical uses. Also read | 'Too soon?': California hosts a gun show, just days after mass shooting nearby claimed 11 lives Wyrick wrote, "the mere use of marijuana carries none of the characteristics that the nation's history and tradition of firearms regulation supports." A lawyer for Harrison argued that her client’s second amendment right to bear guns was violated by federal law and that makes it illegal for “unlawful users of controlled substances” to possess arms. Also read | Trudeau government drops gun bill amendments after fierce backlash This decision made the last instance of declaring gun regulations after the US Supreme Court's 6-3 conservation majority. It came days later after a three-judge panel of the fifth US circuit court appealed in New Orleans on Thursday and ruled that the government cannot stop citizens who have domestic violence restraining orders from owning arms, AP reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US judge rules ban on marijuana users owning guns as 'unconstitutional'

A prominent Atlanta nightclub's owner,&nbsp;Michael Gidewon, was shot and killed early on Saturday morning (February 5) in front of his own establishment, as per authorities. The Fulton County Medical Examiner alerted news organisations that Republic Lounge owner&nbsp;was discovered dead outside the bar early on Saturday.

Gidewon had a gunshot wound when police arrived, according to Atlanta police, who informed FOX5 that medics had already declared him dead. No arrests have been made in connection&nbsp;to his death so far,&nbsp;according to the investigators.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-funeral-home-discovers-woman-breathing-hours-after-she-was-pronounced-dead-559384">New York funeral home discovers woman breathing hours after she was pronounced dead</a>

As per local news reports, Gidewon was known for his charity work and became somewhat of a celebrity in his area.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Millions face 'once-in-a-generation' Arctic blast

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Gidewon left Eritrea, an east African nation, to escape the turmoil there, according to Shireda Howard, who has known him for over 20 years. After working their way up in the nightclub business, he and his brother eventually opened their own, separate&nbsp;clubs.

Howard said that Gidewon is survived by his wife and four children.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A prominent Atlanta nightclub's owner, Michael Gidewon, was shot and killed early on Saturday morning (February 5) in front of his own establishment, as per authorities.

A prominent Atlanta nightclub's owner, Michael Gidewon, was shot and killed early on Saturday morning (February 5) in front of his own establishment, as per authorities. The Fulton County Medical Examiner alerted news organisations that Republic Lounge owner was discovered dead outside the bar early on Saturday. Gidewon had a gunshot wound when police arrived, according to Atlanta police, who informed FOX5 that medics had already declared him dead. No arrests have been made in connection to his death so far, according to the investigators. Also read | New York funeral home discovers woman breathing hours after she was pronounced dead As per local news reports, Gidewon was known for his charity work and became somewhat of a celebrity in his area. Also watch | US: Millions face 'once-in-a-generation' Arctic blast Gidewon left Eritrea, an east African nation, to escape the turmoil there, according to Shireda Howard, who has known him for over 20 years. After working their way up in the nightclub business, he and his brother eventually opened their own, separate clubs. Howard said that Gidewon is survived by his wife and four children. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Popular Atlanta nightclub owner killed in front of his own club

According to a poll by Washington Post-ABC News, two years into his presidency a majority of Americans believe incumbent United States President Joe Biden has not achieved much since taking office. The survey which was released days before the US president is set to deliver a State of the Union address on Tuesday (February 7) said that 62 per cent of Americans think he has accomplished “not very much” or “little or nothing” during his time in office, while 36 per cent say he has accomplished “a great deal” or “a good amount.”

The Post-ABC News poll which was conducted between January 27 and February 1 of 1,003 adults in the US also shows how neither Democrats nor Republicans are faring well as most Americans were seen supporting Biden’s position over the debt limit more than GOP’s.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, there is also very little confidence in either Biden or House Speaker Kevin McCarthy as just under two in 10 Americans have “a great deal” or “a good amount” of confidence in the speaker to make the right decision for the country’s future. While at least 71 per cent have “just some” or no confidence at all and 68 per cent say they lack confidence in Biden, as per the poll.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-emerges-as-worlds-most-popular-leader-defeating-sunak-biden-558865">PM Modi emerges as world's most popular leader, defeating Sunak, Biden</a>

Similarly, 72 per cent of the respondents noted that they are not confident about congressional Republicans making the right decisions, while 70 per cent believe so for congressional Democrats. During his State of the Union speech, Biden is set to tout economic progress following the COVID-19 recession and draw sharp contrasts between his GOP opponents, as per media reports.&nbsp;

However, the Post-ABC poll shows that 77 per cent of Democrats say Biden has accomplished at least a good amount, this number drops to 32 per cent in the case of Independents, and only seven per cent of Republicans who took the survey agree with the statement. The report also shows how Biden’s potential reelection bid could also be affected by these doubts about his achievements which are higher than former president Barack Obama in 2010 and 2012. In fact, it noted that the incumbent president’s negative ratings are roughly on par with his predecessor, former president Donald Trump who lost his reelection bid in 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-democrats-feel-one-term-is-enough-for-biden-559456">U.S.: Democrats feel one term is enough for Biden</a>

Notably, the incumbent president’s State of the Union address also comes amid the ongoing investigation into classified documents found at his Delaware home and the office he used when he was serving as the vice president, during the Obama presidency, at the Penn Biden Center, a Washington-based think tank. A poll by the Associated Press and NORC at the University of Chicago also shows that despite more Americans disapproving of Biden’s handling of classified documents, his overall approval rating is holding steady.&nbsp;

According to the AP-NORC poll, overall 39 per cent disapprove of Biden’s handling of the situation since the classified documents were found while only 23 per cent of the 1,068 American adults questioned said they approve of the current president’s actions. Meanwhile, 36 per cent of people had no opinion on the subject and Democrats are more likely to approve while most Republicans disapprove of Biden's actions in the classified documents row, the report noted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-when-will-biden-deliver-his-state-of-the-union-address-in-2023-and-what-to-expect-558681">Explained: When will Biden deliver his State of the Union address in 2023? and what to expect?</a>

Additionally, the poll conducted between January 26 and 30 also shows that assessments of the president’s job performance are “strongly partisan” since 41 per cent of people approve of Biden’s handling of the top job which is just a two per cent drop from the poll conducted in December, last year. Furthermore, at least 77 per cent of Democrats approve while 91 per cent of Republicans disapprove of Biden’s presidency, both of which remained unchanged since the last poll.&nbsp; 
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According to a poll by Washington Post-ABC News, two years into his presidency a majority of Americans believe incumbent United States President Joe Biden has not achieved much since taking office.

According to a poll by Washington Post-ABC News, two years into his presidency a majority of Americans believe incumbent United States President Joe Biden has not achieved much since taking office. The survey which was released days before the US president is set to deliver a State of the Union address on Tuesday (February 7) said that 62 per cent of Americans think he has accomplished “not very much” or “little or nothing” during his time in office, while 36 per cent say he has accomplished “a great deal” or “a good amount.” The Post-ABC News poll which was conducted between January 27 and February 1 of 1,003 adults in the US also shows how neither Democrats nor Republicans are faring well as most Americans were seen supporting Biden’s position over the debt limit more than GOP’s. Meanwhile, there is also very little confidence in either Biden or House Speaker Kevin McCarthy as just under two in 10 Americans have “a great deal” or “a good amount” of confidence in the speaker to make the right decision for the country’s future. While at least 71 per cent have “just some” or no confidence at all and 68 per cent say they lack confidence in Biden, as per the poll. ALSO READ | PM Modi emerges as world's most popular leader, defeating Sunak, Biden Similarly, 72 per cent of the respondents noted that they are not confident about congressional Republicans making the right decisions, while 70 per cent believe so for congressional Democrats. During his State of the Union speech, Biden is set to tout economic progress following the COVID-19 recession and draw sharp contrasts between his GOP opponents, as per media reports. However, the Post-ABC poll shows that 77 per cent of Democrats say Biden has accomplished at least a good amount, this number drops to 32 per cent in the case of Independents, and only seven per cent of Republicans who took the survey agree with the statement. The report also shows how Biden’s potential reelection bid could also be affected by these doubts about his achievements which are higher than former president Barack Obama in 2010 and 2012. In fact, it noted that the incumbent president’s negative ratings are roughly on par with his predecessor, former president Donald Trump who lost his reelection bid in 2020. ALSO WATCH | U.S.: Democrats feel one term is enough for Biden Notably, the incumbent president’s State of the Union address also comes amid the ongoing investigation into classified documents found at his Delaware home and the office he used when he was serving as the vice president, during the Obama presidency, at the Penn Biden Center, a Washington-based think tank. A poll by the Associated Press and NORC at the University of Chicago also shows that despite more Americans disapproving of Biden’s handling of classified documents, his overall approval rating is holding steady. According to the AP-NORC poll, overall 39 per cent disapprove of Biden’s handling of the situation since the classified documents were found while only 23 per cent of the 1,068 American adults questioned said they approve of the current president’s actions. Meanwhile, 36 per cent of people had no opinion on the subject and Democrats are more likely to approve while most Republicans disapprove of Biden's actions in the classified documents row, the report noted. ALSO READ | Explained: When will Biden deliver his State of the Union address in 2023? and what to expect? Additionally, the poll conducted between January 26 and 30 also shows that assessments of the president’s job performance are “strongly partisan” since 41 per cent of people approve of Biden’s handling of the top job which is just a two per cent drop from the poll conducted in December, last year. Furthermore, at least 77 per cent of Democrats approve while 91 per cent of Republicans disapprove of Biden’s presidency, both of which remained unchanged since the last poll. 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 President Biden’s approval ratings dwindle ahead of State of the Union address: Polls

China has condemned the US for shooting down its balloon on the suspicion of snooping on sensitive military sites, saying that the move has "seriously impacted and damaged" relations between the two countries.

On Saturday, Washington shot it down off the coast of South Carolina after the balloon spent several days hovering over North America, leading the United States to call off a planned visit to Beijing by Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Beijing protested the move, claiming the balloon was a civilian aircraft that was blown off course, and on Sunday lodged an official complaint with the US embassy in China.

"The United States' actions have seriously impacted and damaged both sides' efforts and progress in stabilising Sino-US relations since the Bali meeting," vice foreign minister Xie Feng said in the complaint, referring to a summit between presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping in November.

<h2>China condemns U.S decision to shoot down sky balloon</h2>

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The statement added, " China is paying close attention to the development of the situation" and "reserves the right to make further necessary reactions".

The US, however, maintains that the alleged spy balloon was a "high-altitude surveillance balloon", adding that Washington had taken steps to block it from collecting sensitive information.

<h2>Navy roped in to retire debris</h2>

US Navy divers have been working to recover the wreckage of the Chinese surveillance balloon.

America's former top military officer said he expected it would happen relatively quickly so that experts could begin analysing its equipment, according to BBC.

Apart from that, fighter jets have been dispatched to the US territorial waters as the debris is spread over a wide area.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has condemned the US for shooting down its balloon on the suspicion of snooping on sensitive military sites, saying that the move has "seriously impacted and damaged" relations between the two countries.

China has condemned the US for shooting down its balloon on the suspicion of snooping on sensitive military sites, saying that the move has "seriously impacted and damaged" relations between the two countries. On Saturday, Washington shot it down off the coast of South Carolina after the balloon spent several days hovering over North America, leading the United States to call off a planned visit to Beijing by Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Beijing protested the move, claiming the balloon was a civilian aircraft that was blown off course, and on Sunday lodged an official complaint with the US embassy in China. "The United States' actions have seriously impacted and damaged both sides' efforts and progress in stabilising Sino-US relations since the Bali meeting," vice foreign minister Xie Feng said in the complaint, referring to a summit between presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping in November. China condemns U.S decision to shoot down sky balloon The statement added, " China is paying close attention to the development of the situation" and "reserves the right to make further necessary reactions". The US, however, maintains that the alleged spy balloon was a "high-altitude surveillance balloon", adding that Washington had taken steps to block it from collecting sensitive information. Navy roped in to retire debris US Navy divers have been working to recover the wreckage of the Chinese surveillance balloon. America's former top military officer said he expected it would happen relatively quickly so that experts could begin analysing its equipment, according to BBC. Apart from that, fighter jets have been dispatched to the US territorial waters as the debris is spread over a wide area. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Seriously impacted relations’: China’s rebuke to US shooting down suspected spy balloon

The United States on February 4 downed a suspected Chinese spy balloon off the Carolina coast on orders from President Joe Biden after it traversed sensitive military sites across North America, becoming the latest flashpoint in tensions between Washington and Beijing.

U.S. shoots down Chinese balloon over the Atlantic

The U.S-China tiff over the alleged 'spy' balloon over the Americas gets uglier. In the latest, Beijing has confirmed that a balloon spotted flying over Latin America is Chinese. They called it a research balloon that had strayed from its designated path. This comes after U.S. shot another balloon, as it claimed it was an unmanned spy craft.

Balloon over Latin America is Chinese

In the latest, a former Manhattan attorney claims there is concrete evidence that could help a district attorney bring charges against the former president.

Official claims evidence exist to charge Trump

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended a meeting between British counterpart Tim Barrow and National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval at the UK&nbsp;Cabinet Office as a "special gesture." During the discussion on Friday, (February 3), Sunak emphasized&nbsp;the UK government's support for strengthening strategic alliances in sectors including trade, defence, and science and technology.

On his way back from Washington, where he met his American colleague Jake Sullivan for comparable discussions, Doval stopped in London for an annual bilateral strategic conversation.

“A special gesture by PM Rishi Sunak to join for a while the India-U.K. NSA dialogue between Sir Tim Barrow and Mr. Doval at Cabinet Office,” the Indian High Commission in London and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) tweeted late on Saturday, with reference to the meeting.

“Deeply value PM's assurance of his government’s full support to deepen strategic partnership in trade, defence, S&amp;T. Look forward to visiting of Sir Tim to India soon,” it noted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-never-given-a-chance-former-uk-pm-liz-truss-opens-up-first-time-post-exit-558943">‘Was never given a chance to enact tax cuts’: Former UK PM Liz Truss opens up first time post exit</a>

The controversial BBC documentary "India: The Modi Question," which the Indian government has condemned as biased propaganda, serves as the context for the security discussion.

“We recognise how this portrayal of the Indian government has played out in India. I made it clear that the BBC is independent in its output, that the UK&nbsp;regards India as an incredibly important international partner and that we will be investing heavily in that relationship in the coming decades,” UK. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly told the House of Commons earlier last week.

In order to strengthen their bilateral ties in all areas, including defence and security, India and the UK have agreed on a 2030 Roadmap.

Six rounds of negotiations have taken place for a free trade agreement (FTA) between the two parties, and a seventh-round is anticipated to take place in Britain in the coming weeks.

Official UK&nbsp;government figures indicate that bilateral commerce now amounts to about 29.6 billion pounds annually, a figure that both parties hope to increase through an FTA.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended a meeting between British counterpart Tim Barrow and National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval at the UK Cabinet Office as a "special gesture.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended a meeting between British counterpart Tim Barrow and National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval at the UK Cabinet Office as a "special gesture." During the discussion on Friday, (February 3), Sunak emphasized the UK government's support for strengthening strategic alliances in sectors including trade, defence, and science and technology. On his way back from Washington, where he met his American colleague Jake Sullivan for comparable discussions, Doval stopped in London for an annual bilateral strategic conversation. “A special gesture by PM Rishi Sunak to join for a while the India-U.K. NSA dialogue between Sir Tim Barrow and Mr. Doval at Cabinet Office,” the Indian High Commission in London and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) tweeted late on Saturday, with reference to the meeting. “Deeply value PM's assurance of his government’s full support to deepen strategic partnership in trade, defence, S&T. Look forward to visiting of Sir Tim to India soon,” it noted. Also read | ‘Was never given a chance to enact tax cuts’: Former UK PM Liz Truss opens up first time post exit The controversial BBC documentary "India: The Modi Question," which the Indian government has condemned as biased propaganda, serves as the context for the security discussion. “We recognise how this portrayal of the Indian government has played out in India. I made it clear that the BBC is independent in its output, that the UK regards India as an incredibly important international partner and that we will be investing heavily in that relationship in the coming decades,” UK. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly told the House of Commons earlier last week. In order to strengthen their bilateral ties in all areas, including defence and security, India and the UK have agreed on a 2030 Roadmap. Six rounds of negotiations have taken place for a free trade agreement (FTA) between the two parties, and a seventh-round is anticipated to take place in Britain in the coming weeks. Official UK government figures indicate that bilateral commerce now amounts to about 29.6 billion pounds annually, a figure that both parties hope to increase through an FTA. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rishi Sunak joins the India-UK security discussion as a 'special gesture'

Earth observation satellite jointly developed by NASA and ISRO is all set to be shipped to India later this month. India-NASA had joined hands in 2014 to build the 2,800 kilogram satellite 'NISAR', that will likely be launched from India in September.

NASA-ISRO satellite ready: India, US' 'Nisar' to be shipped to Bengaluru for its launch

Days after Google announced laying off 12,000 employees in January this year, some employees off the company went on a rally to protest in New York. The protesters said that they felt betrayed and now don't know what the future holds.

US: Ex-Google employees rally against layoffs, protest outside company story in Manhattan

The US has wanted to care to slow down exports to Russia which could strengthen Ukraine's war efforts in Ukraine. The US says it would punish Turkish companies' or banks who would contravene the sanctions.

US warns Turkiye to stop exports to Russia, says 'it will empower Ukraine's war efforts'

EU and the US, talking alongside Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and told them don't treat EU worse than Mexico and Canada over subsidies.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz say, 'We don't want global subsidy race'

A powerful Arctic blast across US Northeast sent temperatures plunging perilously below zero degree Celsius. The mercury at New Hampshire, Washington dropped to 105 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-79 Celsius). In New York, wind-chill warnings were posted. Situation was same in all six New England states - &nbsp;Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine&nbsp;

The National Weather Service (NWS) said the deep freeze would be relatively short-lived, but the combination of numbing cold and biting winds gripping the Northeast would pose life-threatening conditions well into Saturday.

Schools in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts, New England's two largest cities, were among those closed on Friday over concerns about the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for children walking to school or waiting for buses.

Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston, declared a state of emergency through Sunday and opened warming centers &nbsp;to help the city's 650,000-plus residents cope. The NWS has termed the current conditions to be a 'once-in-a-generation' chill.

Early on Friday, the arctic surge flowing into the United States from eastern Canada was centered over the US Plains, weather service forecaster Bob Oravec said. Kabetogama, Minnesota, near the Ontario border, was America's coldest spot at 1 pm EST, with a temperature of minus 39 F (-39.5 C).

Sub-freezing, blustery conditions spread eastward through the day, sending wind-chill factors - measuring the combined effect of wind and cold on the body - plunging into the -40s across much of Maine, NWS meteorologist Brian Hurley said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A powerful Arctic blast across US Northeast sent temperatures plunging perilously below zero degree Celsius. The mercury at New Hampshire, Washington dropped to 105 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-79 Celsius).

A powerful Arctic blast across US Northeast sent temperatures plunging perilously below zero degree Celsius. The mercury at New Hampshire, Washington dropped to 105 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-79 Celsius). In New York, wind-chill warnings were posted. Situation was same in all six New England states - Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine The National Weather Service (NWS) said the deep freeze would be relatively short-lived, but the combination of numbing cold and biting winds gripping the Northeast would pose life-threatening conditions well into Saturday. Schools in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts, New England's two largest cities, were among those closed on Friday over concerns about the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for children walking to school or waiting for buses. Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston, declared a state of emergency through Sunday and opened warming centers to help the city's 650,000-plus residents cope. The NWS has termed the current conditions to be a 'once-in-a-generation' chill. Early on Friday, the arctic surge flowing into the United States from eastern Canada was centered over the US Plains, weather service forecaster Bob Oravec said. Kabetogama, Minnesota, near the Ontario border, was America's coldest spot at 1 pm EST, with a temperature of minus 39 F (-39.5 C). Sub-freezing, blustery conditions spread eastward through the day, sending wind-chill factors - measuring the combined effect of wind and cold on the body - plunging into the -40s across much of Maine, NWS meteorologist Brian Hurley said. (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 ×

Arctic blast sweeps US Northeast, temperatures plunge drastically

Differences between Washington and Beijing are on their path to getting worse. The 'spy balloon' incident has prompted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to postpone his trip to China as the latter claimed the responsibility of it.

Soaring balloon, sinking ties? US' Blinken puts China visit on hold over 'spy balloon'

A “once-in-a-generation” Arctic blast is set to the northeastern part of the US on Friday and Saturday, the meteorologists have warned asking more than 15 million residents to brace themselves for the record-breaking temperatures.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has predicted that an Arctic cold front is expected to bring icy cold winds of -45 degrees Celcius (-50F)&nbsp;in parts of northern New England, and will likely cover the area stretching from northern Pennsylvania to Maine.

The weather agency said that the weather will continue through Saturday evening.

The latest warning comes after a winter storm left hundreds of thousands of Texans without power on Thursday after ice storms killed at least 10.

“The wind chills have the potential to be once-in-a-generation cold,” the NWS said, according to the Guardian.

It urged people to either stay indoors or take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a cold emergency for Friday through Sunday and opened warming centres for people.

In an advisory, the city suggested people wear several layers of loose-fitting lightweight, warm clothing.

“Wear mittens over gloves; layering works for your hands as well,” the advisory said. “Always wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.”

Canada’s Rideau Canal skating rink closed

Meanwhile, the world's longest skating rink has been closed down due to warmer-than-average temperatures.

During winter months, Ottawa's 7.8km (4.8 miles) Rideau Canal turns into ice, attracting a lot of skaters.

On Friday, temperatures dropped to -26C (-15F) on Friday, but hovered around -5C (12F) in January and -2C (28F) in December.

Over the past 52 years, the average start date has shifted later and later.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A “once-in-a-generation” Arctic blast is set to the northeastern part of the US on Friday and Saturday, the meteorologists have warned asking more than 15 million residents to brace themselves for the record-breaking temperatures.

A “once-in-a-generation” Arctic blast is set to the northeastern part of the US on Friday and Saturday, the meteorologists have warned asking more than 15 million residents to brace themselves for the record-breaking temperatures. The National Weather Service (NWS) has predicted that an Arctic cold front is expected to bring icy cold winds of -45 degrees Celcius (-50F) in parts of northern New England, and will likely cover the area stretching from northern Pennsylvania to Maine. The weather agency said that the weather will continue through Saturday evening. The latest warning comes after a winter storm left hundreds of thousands of Texans without power on Thursday after ice storms killed at least 10. “The wind chills have the potential to be once-in-a-generation cold,” the NWS said, according to the Guardian. It urged people to either stay indoors or take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a cold emergency for Friday through Sunday and opened warming centres for people. In an advisory, the city suggested people wear several layers of loose-fitting lightweight, warm clothing. “Wear mittens over gloves; layering works for your hands as well,” the advisory said. “Always wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.” Canada’s Rideau Canal skating rink closed Meanwhile, the world's longest skating rink has been closed down due to warmer-than-average temperatures. During winter months, Ottawa's 7.8km (4.8 miles) Rideau Canal turns into ice, attracting a lot of skaters. On Friday, temperatures dropped to -26C (-15F) on Friday, but hovered around -5C (12F) in January and -2C (28F) in December. Over the past 52 years, the average start date has shifted later and later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US weather agency warns of ‘once-in-a-generation’ Arctic blast

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