The Hive ransomware operation, which had extorted more than US$100 million from more than 1,500 victims&nbsp;worldwide, had been shut down, according to a statement from the US Justice Department on Thursday (January 26).

In a&nbsp;statement, US Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Department of Justice had dismantled “an international ransomware network responsible for extorting and attempting to extort hundreds of millions of dollars from victims.”

US authorities, along with Dutch and German law enforcement, acquired control of Hive's website and servers after roughly seven months of infiltration, as per US Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-five-former-memphis-police-officers-charged-with-murder-in-tyre-nichols-death-556355">US: Five former Memphis police officers charged with murder in Tyre Nichols’ death</a>

Companies were able to escape having to pay extortion demands for US$130 million made after Hive hacked and froze their data systems due to the invasion.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco called the operation to infiltrate Hive a “21st-century cyber stakeout.” “We hacked the hackers,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-economy-performed-better-than-expected-in-final-months-of-last-year-556309">US economy performed better than expected in final months of last year</a>

Hive functioned as a ransomware service, which let anybody use its software and other services to break into, lock down, and accept payments for a target's IT systems. Hive and the client would split the extortion's profits.

More than 1,500 companies and organisations have been compromised since Hive's debut in 2021, with backup files being erased or rendered inaccessible and IT systems or databases encrypted by Hive.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Hive ransomware operation, which had extorted more than US$100 million from more than 1,500 victims worldwide, had been shut down, according to a statement from the US Justice Department on Thursday (January 26).

The Hive ransomware operation, which had extorted more than US$100 million from more than 1,500 victims worldwide, had been shut down, according to a statement from the US Justice Department on Thursday (January 26). In a statement, US Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Department of Justice had dismantled “an international ransomware network responsible for extorting and attempting to extort hundreds of millions of dollars from victims.” US authorities, along with Dutch and German law enforcement, acquired control of Hive's website and servers after roughly seven months of infiltration, as per US Attorney General Merrick Garland. Also read | US: Five former Memphis police officers charged with murder in Tyre Nichols’ death Companies were able to escape having to pay extortion demands for US$130 million made after Hive hacked and froze their data systems due to the invasion. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco called the operation to infiltrate Hive a “21st-century cyber stakeout.” “We hacked the hackers,” she said. Also read | US economy performed better than expected in final months of last year Hive functioned as a ransomware service, which let anybody use its software and other services to break into, lock down, and accept payments for a target's IT systems. Hive and the client would split the extortion's profits. More than 1,500 companies and organisations have been compromised since Hive's debut in 2021, with backup files being erased or rendered inaccessible and IT systems or databases encrypted by Hive. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US shuts down major ransomware network Hive, helping almost 300 victims

Bilal al-Sudani, a significant regional commander for the Islamic State group, was killed in a US military raid in Somalia that was ordered by President Joe Biden, according to US authorities on Thursday (January 26).&nbsp;As per US sources, Sudani was killed during a gunfight when US forces entered a hilly labyrinth of caves in northern Somalia in an effort to arrest him, as reported by AFP.

There were about 10&nbsp;IS supporters from Sudan present at the location who were killed, but no Americans were hurt&nbsp;the firing, according to the officials.

"On January 25, on orders from the president, the US military conducted an assault operation in northern Somalia that resulted in the death of a number of ISIS members, including Bilal al-Sudani," Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.

"Al-Sudani was responsible for fostering the growing presence of ISIS in Africa and for funding the group's operations worldwide, including in Afghanistan," Austin said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shuts-down-major-ransomware-network-hive-helping-almost-300-victims-556363">US shuts down major ransomware network Hive, helping almost 300 victims</a>

al-Sudani&nbsp;handled the financing for IS branches not only in Africa but also for Islamic State Khorasan, the branch that controls Afghanistan, a US official stated under the condition of anonymity. He did this from his mountain base in northern Somalia.

"Sudani had a key operational and financial role with specialized skills which made him an important target for US counterterrorism action," the official said.

Also watch |&nbsp;ChatGPT bot clears US law school exam, but struggles in most courses

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The US soldiers had been practising at a location created to mimic the terrain where Sudani was hiding throughout the months-long preparation for the operation.

After speaking with senior defence, intelligence, and security officials earlier this week, Biden authorised the strike, the individual claimed, as reported by AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bilal al-Sudani, a significant regional commander for the Islamic State group, was killed in a US military raid in Somalia that was ordered by President Joe Biden, according to US authorities on Thursday (January 26).

Bilal al-Sudani, a significant regional commander for the Islamic State group, was killed in a US military raid in Somalia that was ordered by President Joe Biden, according to US authorities on Thursday (January 26). As per US sources, Sudani was killed during a gunfight when US forces entered a hilly labyrinth of caves in northern Somalia in an effort to arrest him, as reported by AFP. There were about 10 IS supporters from Sudan present at the location who were killed, but no Americans were hurt the firing, according to the officials. "On January 25, on orders from the president, the US military conducted an assault operation in northern Somalia that resulted in the death of a number of ISIS members, including Bilal al-Sudani," Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement. "Al-Sudani was responsible for fostering the growing presence of ISIS in Africa and for funding the group's operations worldwide, including in Afghanistan," Austin said. Also read | US shuts down major ransomware network Hive, helping almost 300 victims al-Sudani handled the financing for IS branches not only in Africa but also for Islamic State Khorasan, the branch that controls Afghanistan, a US official stated under the condition of anonymity. He did this from his mountain base in northern Somalia. "Sudani had a key operational and financial role with specialized skills which made him an important target for US counterterrorism action," the official said. Also watch | ChatGPT bot clears US law school exam, but struggles in most courses The US soldiers had been practising at a location created to mimic the terrain where Sudani was hiding throughout the months-long preparation for the operation. After speaking with senior defence, intelligence, and security officials earlier this week, Biden authorised the strike, the individual claimed, as reported by AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US military kills senior Islamic State figure in US raid in Somalia

The United States has said that it had shut down a prolific cyber crime group known as the Hive, which had extorted more than a hundred million US dollars to more than 1,500 victims worldwide.

US shuts down ransomware group Hive; group extorted over $100 million from victims

Things are not that bad in luxury goods space as shoppers in Europe and US pledged over a crucial holiday season mainly on luxury goods. European firm LVMH, sales have risen 9.5% in fourth quarter.

World Business Watch: LVMH's sales defy downturn, shoppers splurge on luxury goods

US plane maker Boeing pleaded 'not guilty' to a 737 Max fraud felony charge, this after the families to a 2021 justice department agreement to resolve into plane's flawed design and 'not guilty' plea is standard in deferred prosecution agreements.

Boeing 737 Max pleads 'not guilty' in crash fraud case; crashes in Indonesia, Ethiopia killed 346

United States President Joe Biden in a speech on Wednesday (January 25) said Washington will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, in a major reversal and significant step for “continued support" to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. This comes hours after Germany confirmed that they will send 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Kyiv and also approve the re-export of Leopard tanks from other European countries.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Biden said how Abrams tanks are the “most capable tanks” in the world and given their complexities to operate and maintain the US will also send Ukraine the parts and equipment to “effectively sustain” these tanks on the battlefield.&nbsp;

Kyiv’s military will also be trained to use one of the most powerful tanks that the US has to offer in a yet-to-be-determined location. Biden while announcing the decision also described the situation in Ukraine&nbsp;amid the ongoing conflict and said, “Ukrainian forces are working to defend the territory they hold and preparing for additional counter offenses”. He added, “To liberate their land, they need to be able to counter Russia’s evolving tactics and strategy on the battlefield in the very near term.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extremely-dangerous-russia-warns-of-potential-escalation-as-germany-agrees-to-send-tanks-to-ukraine-555897">‘Extremely dangerous’: Russia warns of potential escalation as Germany agrees to send tanks to Ukraine</a>

The US president also thanked Germany for their decision to supply their Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine as well as for approving the re-export of tanks from other European allies. “Germany has really stepped up”, said Biden, during his address at the White House. He&nbsp;also said how part of Russia thought “we’re going to break up”, in reference to Washington and its European allies but&nbsp;“we are fully, totally and thoroughly united,” said the US president.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notably, while the total cost of a single Abrams tank can vary it can take over $10 million per tank including training and maintenance, as per Reuters. Additionally, since they run on jet fuel they pose a significant logistical resupply challenge. However, they won’t be arriving in Ukraine anytime soon, said senior officials of the Biden administration, that it could take months for the Abrams to be delivered, as per media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-approves-delivery-of-14-leopard-2-tanks-to-ukraine-555978">Germany approves delivery of 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine</a>

According to Biden, so far, European allies have agreed to send a total of 62 tanks which would be enough to equip two Ukrainian tank battalions. He also went on to affirm, “there is no offensive threat to Russia” from the Abrams tanks. After the address, in response to a question about this change of course by the US, a reporter questioned why he is taking this decision now and if Germany forced him to change his mind about sending tanks.&nbsp;In response, Biden said, “Germany did not force me to change (my) mind. We wanted to make sure we were all together.”&nbsp;

After the announcement, the Ukrainian President,&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky, took to Twitter and thanked his US counterpart,&nbsp;"for another powerful decision". He added, "It's an important step on the path to victory. Today the free world is united as never before for a common goal – liberation of Ukraine."&nbsp;

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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> for another powerful decision to provide Abrams to 🇺🇦. Grateful to 🇺🇸 people for leadership support! It's an important step on the path to victory. Today the free world is united as never before for a common goal – liberation of 🇺🇦. We're moving forward
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1618304532186030080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-approves-sending-of-31-abrams-tanks-to-ukraine-555977">US approves sending of 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine</a>

This comes after Berlin had initially been reluctant to send tanks to Ukraine but after facing pressure from its Western allies and following a debate in the German parliament, early Wednesday it agreed to provide a company of 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks from the Bundeswehr (Germany’s military) stocks.

Addressing the parliament, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, “We must always make it clear in everything we do that we are doing what is necessary and possible to support Ukraine, but that at the same time, we are preventing the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO.”&nbsp;

However, after Berlin approved supplying Leopard 2 tanks, the Russian ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechaev in a strongly worded statement, called the decision “extremely dangerous” and warned that this will not inevitably lead to the deaths of not only Russian soldiers but also the civilian population. He added that Russia is convinced that Germany, like its closest allies, “is not interested in a diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis.” 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden in a speech on Wednesday (January 25) said Washington will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, in a major reversal and significant step for “continued support" to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

United States President Joe Biden in a speech on Wednesday (January 25) said Washington will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, in a major reversal and significant step for “continued support" to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. This comes hours after Germany confirmed that they will send 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Kyiv and also approve the re-export of Leopard tanks from other European countries. Furthermore, Biden said how Abrams tanks are the “most capable tanks” in the world and given their complexities to operate and maintain the US will also send Ukraine the parts and equipment to “effectively sustain” these tanks on the battlefield. Kyiv’s military will also be trained to use one of the most powerful tanks that the US has to offer in a yet-to-be-determined location. Biden while announcing the decision also described the situation in Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict and said, “Ukrainian forces are working to defend the territory they hold and preparing for additional counter offenses”. He added, “To liberate their land, they need to be able to counter Russia’s evolving tactics and strategy on the battlefield in the very near term.” ALSO READ | ‘Extremely dangerous’: Russia warns of potential escalation as Germany agrees to send tanks to Ukraine The US president also thanked Germany for their decision to supply their Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine as well as for approving the re-export of tanks from other European allies. “Germany has really stepped up”, said Biden, during his address at the White House. He also said how part of Russia thought “we’re going to break up”, in reference to Washington and its European allies but “we are fully, totally and thoroughly united,” said the US president. Notably, while the total cost of a single Abrams tank can vary it can take over $10 million per tank including training and maintenance, as per Reuters. Additionally, since they run on jet fuel they pose a significant logistical resupply challenge. However, they won’t be arriving in Ukraine anytime soon, said senior officials of the Biden administration, that it could take months for the Abrams to be delivered, as per media reports. ALSO WATCH | Germany approves delivery of 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine According to Biden, so far, European allies have agreed to send a total of 62 tanks which would be enough to equip two Ukrainian tank battalions. He also went on to affirm, “there is no offensive threat to Russia” from the Abrams tanks. After the address, in response to a question about this change of course by the US, a reporter questioned why he is taking this decision now and if Germany forced him to change his mind about sending tanks. In response, Biden said, “Germany did not force me to change (my) mind. We wanted to make sure we were all together.” After the announcement, the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, took to Twitter and thanked his US counterpart, "for another powerful decision". He added, "It's an important step on the path to victory. Today the free world is united as never before for a common goal – liberation of Ukraine." Thank you @POTUS for another powerful decision to provide Abrams to 🇺🇦. Grateful to 🇺🇸 people for leadership support! It's an important step on the path to victory. Today the free world is united as never before for a common goal – liberation of 🇺🇦. We're moving forward — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 25, 2023 × ALSO WATCH | US approves sending of 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine This comes after Berlin had initially been reluctant to send tanks to Ukraine but after facing pressure from its Western allies and following a debate in the German parliament, early Wednesday it agreed to provide a company of 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks from the Bundeswehr (Germany’s military) stocks. Addressing the parliament, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said, “We must always make it clear in everything we do that we are doing what is necessary and possible to support Ukraine, but that at the same time, we are preventing the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO.” However, after Berlin approved supplying Leopard 2 tanks, the Russian ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechaev in a strongly worded statement, called the decision “extremely dangerous” and warned that this will not inevitably lead to the deaths of not only Russian soldiers but also the civilian population. He added that Russia is convinced that Germany, like its closest allies, “is not interested in a diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis.” (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.

After Germany, US announces it will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine

The United States on Thursday (January 26) announced that it will impose additional sanctions against the Wagner Group while also designating it as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and accused them of widespread human rights abuses. This comes after the group has been engaging in battle in the eastern Ukrainian cities of Bakhmut and Soledar amid the conflict between Russia and Kyiv.&nbsp;

In a statement, the US Treasury Department said that in a bid to degrade Russia’s capacity to wage a war against Ukraine, it is imposing additional sanctions against six individuals and 12 entities. It also accused Wagner personnel of engaging in “an ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity, including mass executions, rape, child abductions, and physical abuse in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Mali.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-live-ukraine-army-claims-it-shot-47-of-55-russian-missiles-amid-wave-of-attacks-from-russia-556222">Russia-Ukraine war | Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 11, say emergency services</a>

This also comes after Washington along with its allies imposed a number of sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago which also included Wagner. Furthermore, the US has also sanctioned Russia-based technology firm Joint Stock Company Terra Tech (Terra Tech) which is accused of supporting Wagner’s military operations.&nbsp;

Additionally, they have also imposed restrictions on China-based Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. LTD for allegedly providing Terra Tech with satellite imagery over locations in Ukraine. “These images were gathered in order to enable Wagner combat operations in Ukraine,” said the US Treasury.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tank-delivery-promises-by-the-west-perceived-as-direct-involvement-kremlin-556204">Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict</a>

“Today’s expanded sanctions on Wagner, as well as new sanctions on their associates and other companies enabling the Russian military complex, will further impede (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s ability to arm and equip his war machine,” said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in the statement. Meanwhile, the US State Department also designated entities and individuals with links to Wagner and its owner Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Thursday, reported Reuters.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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The United States on Thursday (January 26) announced that it will impose additional sanctions against the Wagner Group while also designating it as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and accused them of widespread human rights abuses.

The United States on Thursday (January 26) announced that it will impose additional sanctions against the Wagner Group while also designating it as a “significant transnational criminal organization” and accused them of widespread human rights abuses. This comes after the group has been engaging in battle in the eastern Ukrainian cities of Bakhmut and Soledar amid the conflict between Russia and Kyiv. In a statement, the US Treasury Department said that in a bid to degrade Russia’s capacity to wage a war against Ukraine, it is imposing additional sanctions against six individuals and 12 entities. It also accused Wagner personnel of engaging in “an ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity, including mass executions, rape, child abductions, and physical abuse in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Mali.” ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war | Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 11, say emergency services This also comes after Washington along with its allies imposed a number of sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago which also included Wagner. Furthermore, the US has also sanctioned Russia-based technology firm Joint Stock Company Terra Tech (Terra Tech) which is accused of supporting Wagner’s military operations. Additionally, they have also imposed restrictions on China-based Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. LTD for allegedly providing Terra Tech with satellite imagery over locations in Ukraine. “These images were gathered in order to enable Wagner combat operations in Ukraine,” said the US Treasury. ALSO READ | Russia criticises West for giving tanks to Ukraine, terms it ‘direct involvement’ in ongoing conflict “Today’s expanded sanctions on Wagner, as well as new sanctions on their associates and other companies enabling the Russian military complex, will further impede (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s ability to arm and equip his war machine,” said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in the statement. Meanwhile, the US State Department also designated entities and individuals with links to Wagner and its owner Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Thursday, reported Reuters. 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 designates Wagner group as ‘significant transnational criminal organization’, imposes harsher sanctions

US teacher was shot by a six-year-old in a classroom, has decided to sue the school authorities for ignoring multiple warnings regarding the same. Her lawyer said that the administrators at the Elementary School warned that the boy could have a gun and was threatening others.

US teacher sues school authorities for negligence after 6-year-old shot her in class

After two years former President will be back on Facebook and Instagram as parent company Meta says it will allow Trump back on its platforms in the coming weeks. Trump was banned from the platform over his online behaviour during January 6, 2021 insurrection.

Former US Pres Donald Trump back on Meta platforms as it reinstates his Facebook, Insta accounts

Germany has announced it is ready to send 14 of its own tanks and to allow others to do so, in an U-turn from its previous position. US has also decided to supply 31 advanced M1 Abram tanks worth $400 million. The decision comes after weeks of pressure on Berlin from Western allies.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian President calls for missiles, aircraft after tanks

Former US President Donald Trump won a big golf tournament over the weekend held at his very own golf club. Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to share the news.

Former US President Donald trump wins golf championship at his own club

Day after justice department sued Google for allegedly monopolising online advertising space, the tech giant has now responded stating that the government's complaint is without merit and that it will defend itself against the anti-trust lawsuit.

Google responds to US department lawsuit over alleged online ad monopoly

South Africa and the United States are to set up a task force to "follow the money" behind the illegal wildlife trade, US Treasury chief Janet Yellen said on Wednesday. South Africa is a hotspot for poaching, especially of rhinos.

WION Dispatch: US announces anti-poaching task force with South Africa

Amid the economic crisis in Pakistan, the country has reportedly sought the support of United States in reviving the International Monetary Fund program. The IMF loan is expected to facilitate a soft landing for Pakistan's economy.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan finance minister meets US delegation for IMF programme revival

In-house massage therapists made up more than two dozen of those who lost their jobs in Google's most recent wave of layoffs, which occurred last week.

27 in-house massage therapists were among the 1,845 employees that lost their positions with the company in the state of California, according to filings that CNBC reported on Tuesday. 24 of the massage therapists who lost their employment worked at the company's Mountain View, California, headquarters, while three additional massage therapists who worked at the company's campuses in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, also lost their jobs.

Many IT firms, including Google, have recently let go of thousands of workers.

Some of the workforce cutbacks are attributed to businesses hiring too many people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-buckles-under-indias-anti-trust-ruling-allows-android-users-to-choose-default-search-engine-555983/amp">Google buckles under India’s anti-trust ruling, allows Android users to choose default search engine</a>

In its largest wave of layoffs to date, Alphabet, the parent company of Google, has slashed 12,000 jobs. Six percent of its workforce was affected by the round of layoffs.

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, said in an email to staff members that the company is eliminating positions across a number of divisions following a "rigorous review," saying that due to the company's "dramatic growth" over the previous two years, they hired more people than&nbsp;actually required.

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In-house massage therapists made up more than two dozen of those who lost their jobs in Google's most recent wave of layoffs, which occurred last week. 27 in-house massage therapists were among the 1,845 employees that lost their positions with the company in the state of California, according to filings that CNBC reported on Tuesday.

In-house massage therapists made up more than two dozen of those who lost their jobs in Google's most recent wave of layoffs, which occurred last week. 27 in-house massage therapists were among the 1,845 employees that lost their positions with the company in the state of California, according to filings that CNBC reported on Tuesday. 24 of the massage therapists who lost their employment worked at the company's Mountain View, California, headquarters, while three additional massage therapists who worked at the company's campuses in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, also lost their jobs. Many IT firms, including Google, have recently let go of thousands of workers. Some of the workforce cutbacks are attributed to businesses hiring too many people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read | Google buckles under India’s anti-trust ruling, allows Android users to choose default search engine In its largest wave of layoffs to date, Alphabet, the parent company of Google, has slashed 12,000 jobs. Six percent of its workforce was affected by the round of layoffs. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, said in an email to staff members that the company is eliminating positions across a number of divisions following a "rigorous review," saying that due to the company's "dramatic growth" over the previous two years, they hired more people than actually required. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Cutting back on massages: Google fires almost 27 massage therapists amid mass layoffs

A farmworker was charged on Wednesday (January 25) with seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder after being accused of killing seven people in back-to-back shootings at two mushroom farms in Northern California.

Chunli Zhao, 66, was set to appear in court for the first time on January 25,&nbsp;but the date has been changed to February 16, according to San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. Calls and emails from AP news agency seeking comment from his two lawyers did not&nbsp;receive a response.

Speaking outside the courtroom, Wagstaffe declined to elaborate on Zhao's motive for killing his current and former coworkers, stating that he wished to keep the information private to guarantee a fair trial.

It was the biggest mass shooting in San Mateo County history and the third mass shooting in California in eight days,&nbsp;Wagstaffe said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/gun-violence-rocks-chicago-23-year-old-indian-dies-after-armed-robbers-shot-him-in-the-chest-555842">Gun violence rocks Chicago: 23-year-old Indian dies after armed robbers shot him in the chest</a>

Even though Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a moratorium on executions, the accusations contain further claims that might lead to the death sentence or life in prison without the possibility of release. These accusations include the use of a pistol by Zhao, as well as severe physical harm and many fatalities.

Half Moon Bay is about 50 kilometres (40 miles) south of San Francisco. It is well-known among hikers and tourists who come to surf and attend an annual giant pumpkin festival.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A farmworker was charged on Wednesday (January 25) with seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder after being accused of killing seven people in back-to-back shootings at two mushroom farms in Northern California.

A farmworker was charged on Wednesday (January 25) with seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder after being accused of killing seven people in back-to-back shootings at two mushroom farms in Northern California. Chunli Zhao, 66, was set to appear in court for the first time on January 25, but the date has been changed to February 16, according to San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. Calls and emails from AP news agency seeking comment from his two lawyers did not receive a response. Speaking outside the courtroom, Wagstaffe declined to elaborate on Zhao's motive for killing his current and former coworkers, stating that he wished to keep the information private to guarantee a fair trial. It was the biggest mass shooting in San Mateo County history and the third mass shooting in California in eight days, Wagstaffe said. Also read | Gun violence rocks Chicago: 23-year-old Indian dies after armed robbers shot him in the chest Even though Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a moratorium on executions, the accusations contain further claims that might lead to the death sentence or life in prison without the possibility of release. These accusations include the use of a pistol by Zhao, as well as severe physical harm and many fatalities. Half Moon Bay is about 50 kilometres (40 miles) south of San Francisco. It is well-known among hikers and tourists who come to surf and attend an annual giant pumpkin festival. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Half Moon Bay killings: Gunman who targeted farm worker colleagues faces seven murder counts

US skier Mikaela Shiffrin claimed yet another record in her trophy-laden career as she secured an 83rd women's World Cup victory on Tuesday, moving her to the top of the list past her compatriot Lindsey Vonn.

Mikaela Shiffrin claims 83rd World Cup win to set women's record

Seven people have died in two shooting incidents in the US. The incidents of gun violence in northern California and Iowa come less than 48 hours after a gunman opened fire at a Chinese New Year dance event in Los Angeles and left 11 dead.

The American 'Dread': Deadly shooting incident in California's half Moon Bay

In the United States, Health officials want to make Covid-19 vaccinations more like the annual flu shot. According to the Food and Drug Administration, an easy way for future vaccination efforts is once a year shot for adults and children that would protect citizens against the mutation virus.

US: Country proposes once-a-year Covid-19 shots for Americans

US President Joe Biden has nominated Julie Turner as special envoy for human rights in North Korea. The post had been left unfilled for six years, throughout the entire Trump administration and halfway into Biden's term.

US President Joe Biden nominates Julie Turner as special envoy for human rights in North Korea

The US and Israel launched their largest joint military exercise ever on Monday, sending a clear signal to Iran and underscoring the strength of their alliance despite concerns over the composition of the new Israeli government.

US, Israel kick off largest ever military exercise amid Iran tensions

A glitch at NYSE prevented opening auctions for its sleeve of stocks, there was a confusion for a long time over whether orders were being filled at correct prices and more than 250 securities was being busted. The glitch also impacted stocks of major companies.

World Business Watch: NYSE glitch briefly halts trading, stocks of major companies impacted

The Biden administration has approved sending 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine. The US decision came on the heels of Germany agreeing to send 14 Leopard 2 tanks from its own stocks.

US approves sending of 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine

A war of words has been started between two largest economies of the world - US and China. They are engaged in a tussle over debt issue, it started after US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called China a 'barrier' to debt reforms in Africa.

China tells US to fix debt problems; Janet Yellen dismisses idea to mint $1 tn to avert debt default

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