Iranians are celebrating their soccer team's loss in the FIFA World Cup. Videos show Iranians cheering, dancing & waving American flags on the streets. What explains this? Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Iranians celebrate Soccer team's World Cup loss to U.S.

French President Emmanuel Macron, currently on a US visit, criticised subsidies under its Inflation Reduction Act&nbsp;(IRA) as 'super aggressive.' Macron addressed lawmakers from both political parties in the US. Macron, who arrived in the US for a state visit on Tursday (November 29), will also question US President Joe Biden over the subsidies over which the European Union is not very happy. This is Macron's second state visit to US after taking office.

"This is super aggressive for our business people," Macron said as per AFP.

The White House touts the IRA legislation as a groundbreaking effort to reignite US manufacturing and promote renewable technologies, but European Union governments are crying foul, threatening to launch a trade war by subsidising their own green economy sector.

Macron's blunt assessment, saying he just wanted "to be respected as a good friend," tore some of the veneer off a carefully choreographed state visit intended to celebrate historic US-French ties -- and also tackle the trickier parts of the US-EU transatlantic alliance.

"I don't want to become a market to sell American products because I have exactly the same products as you," said Macron, stressing that France had its own middle class in need of employment.

"And the consequence of the IRA is that you will perhaps fix your issue but you will increase my problem. I'm sorry to be so straightforward," he said.

Despite Macron's apparent combative tone, his visit to US is also being seen as an effort to mend ties between the two powers which reached a historic low after US and UK torpedoed a multi-billion dollar deal between France and Australia to strike their own to provide the latter with nuclear submarines.

After Macron's comments, the White House appeared to be in business as usual mode as it underlined that the state visit was about two presidents' "warm relationship."

US advances in the clean energy economy will help Europeans too, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. The IRA "presents significant opportunities for European firms as well as benefits to EU energy security. This is not a zero sum game."

In a speech later at the French embassy, Macron insisted on the subsidies issue and said they could become a real sticking point in US relations with Europe.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron, currently on a US visit, criticised subsidies under its Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) as 'super aggressive.' Macron addressed lawmakers from both political parties in the US.

French President Emmanuel Macron, currently on a US visit, criticised subsidies under its Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) as 'super aggressive.' Macron addressed lawmakers from both political parties in the US. Macron, who arrived in the US for a state visit on Tursday (November 29), will also question US President Joe Biden over the subsidies over which the European Union is not very happy. This is Macron's second state visit to US after taking office. "This is super aggressive for our business people," Macron said as per AFP. The White House touts the IRA legislation as a groundbreaking effort to reignite US manufacturing and promote renewable technologies, but European Union governments are crying foul, threatening to launch a trade war by subsidising their own green economy sector. Macron's blunt assessment, saying he just wanted "to be respected as a good friend," tore some of the veneer off a carefully choreographed state visit intended to celebrate historic US-French ties -- and also tackle the trickier parts of the US-EU transatlantic alliance. "I don't want to become a market to sell American products because I have exactly the same products as you," said Macron, stressing that France had its own middle class in need of employment. "And the consequence of the IRA is that you will perhaps fix your issue but you will increase my problem. I'm sorry to be so straightforward," he said. Despite Macron's apparent combative tone, his visit to US is also being seen as an effort to mend ties between the two powers which reached a historic low after US and UK torpedoed a multi-billion dollar deal between France and Australia to strike their own to provide the latter with nuclear submarines. After Macron's comments, the White House appeared to be in business as usual mode as it underlined that the state visit was about two presidents' "warm relationship." US advances in the clean energy economy will help Europeans too, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. The IRA "presents significant opportunities for European firms as well as benefits to EU energy security. This is not a zero sum game." In a speech later at the French embassy, Macron insisted on the subsidies issue and said they could become a real sticking point in US relations with Europe. (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 ×

On a state visit, Macron blasts US law as 'super aggressive' for European businesses

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday (November 30) approved a bill to block a potentially crippling railroad strike. The bill also has provisions for mandatory paid sick leave for rail workers. The bill was approved with 290 votes for and 137 votes against. The House separately voted 221 to 207, to give seven days of paid sick leave to railroad employees.

But it faces an uncertain fate in the Senate. Democrats and some Republicans have expressed outrage over the lack of paid short-term sick leave for railroad workers. It was feared that a rail strike could begin as early as December 9.&nbsp;

If a rail strike indeed takes place, it would freeze almost 30 per cent of US cargo shipments by weight. It may also increase the already high inflation. It will cost the economy $2 billion per day.

After the vote, President Joe Biden called on the Senate to act "urgently."

Railroads and the US Chamber of Commerce oppose amending the contract deal that was struck in September largely on the recommendations of an emergency board appointed by Biden.

The influential business lobby group said the sick leave, if passed and signed into law, "would impose an unworkable, one-sided modification to a labor agreement."

Biden on Monday (November 28) praised the proposed contract that includes a 24% compounded pay increase over five years and five annual $1,000 lump-sum payments, and had asked Congress to impose the agreement without any modifications.

There are no paid short-term sick days under the tentative deal after unions asked for 15 and railroads settled on one personal day.

Association of American Railroads Chief Executive Ian Jefferies said House action on sick leave could undermine future collective bargaining and argued the unions have historically bargained for higher overall wages and a more generous long-term leave policy.

Eight of 12 unions have ratified the deal. But some labor leaders have criticized Biden for asking Congress to impose a contract that workers in four unions have rejected over its lack of paid sick leave.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US House of Representatives on Wednesday (November 30) approved a bill to block a potentially crippling railroad strike. The bill also has provisions for mandatory paid sick leave for rail workers.

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday (November 30) approved a bill to block a potentially crippling railroad strike. The bill also has provisions for mandatory paid sick leave for rail workers. The bill was approved with 290 votes for and 137 votes against. The House separately voted 221 to 207, to give seven days of paid sick leave to railroad employees. But it faces an uncertain fate in the Senate. Democrats and some Republicans have expressed outrage over the lack of paid short-term sick leave for railroad workers. It was feared that a rail strike could begin as early as December 9. If a rail strike indeed takes place, it would freeze almost 30 per cent of US cargo shipments by weight. It may also increase the already high inflation. It will cost the economy $2 billion per day. After the vote, President Joe Biden called on the Senate to act "urgently." Railroads and the US Chamber of Commerce oppose amending the contract deal that was struck in September largely on the recommendations of an emergency board appointed by Biden. The influential business lobby group said the sick leave, if passed and signed into law, "would impose an unworkable, one-sided modification to a labor agreement." Biden on Monday (November 28) praised the proposed contract that includes a 24% compounded pay increase over five years and five annual $1,000 lump-sum payments, and had asked Congress to impose the agreement without any modifications. There are no paid short-term sick days under the tentative deal after unions asked for 15 and railroads settled on one personal day. Association of American Railroads Chief Executive Ian Jefferies said House action on sick leave could undermine future collective bargaining and argued the unions have historically bargained for higher overall wages and a more generous long-term leave policy. Eight of 12 unions have ratified the deal. But some labor leaders have criticized Biden for asking Congress to impose a contract that workers in four unions have rejected over its lack of paid sick leave. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US House approves bill to avert rail strike that could cost economy $2bn per day

Just three days before thanksgiving, former US President Donald Trump held a private dinner at his Mar-a-Lago residence. He hosted Grammy winner rapper Kanye West and white nationalist Nick Fuentes. It was supposed to be an uneventful dinner but ended up being a political nightmare for the former US President.

US: Republicans denounce Donald Trump's dinner with Kanye West, Nick Fuentes

The U.S. Has finally passed a bipartisan bill that protects same-sex and inter-racial marriage. Singapore has also followed the suit and decriminalised gay sex. But Japan stays stuck with its age-old traditions by upholding a ban on same-sex marriage. Neha Khanna brings you more details.

WION Fineprint | Love is love: U.S. bill protects gay marriage

The war in Ukraine is raging now for the last nine months as Kiev has been resolutely defending its territory. Russia has been relentlessly attacking Ukraine and the West has been ensuring non stop supply of weapons to Ukraine.

Russia Ukraine War: NATO sends $40 bn in aid to Ukraine as it seeks more weapons from West

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.&nbsp;

Moscow has frequently protested that Western military assistance to Ukraine is prolonging the crisis, which is now in its 10th month and putting Russia and the West at risk of a direct conflict.&nbsp;

Ryabkov was reported by the news agency Interfax as saying, "We are sending signals to the Americans that their line of escalation and ever deeper involvement in this conflict is fraught with dire consequences. The risks are growing."

Following what they claim was Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the continued occupation of Ukrainian land, and veiled nuclear threats, Kyiv and the West blame Russia for any future escalation.&nbsp;

Ryabkov was quoted as adding that although Washington and Moscow "periodically exchange signals," there is no conversation between the two.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-more-than-300-dead-in-protests-sparked-by-aminis-death-says-irgc-general-538527">Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general</a>

He claimed he was unaware of any communication on a particular US-Russia military hotline set up at the start of what Moscow refers to as "a special military operation."

The unique "deconfliction" line between the Russian and American armies has only been used once since the war began, a US&nbsp;official earlier on Tuesday told Reuters.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing. Moscow has frequently protested that Western military assistance to Ukraine is prolonging the crisis, which is now in its 10th month and putting Russia and the West at risk of a direct conflict. Ryabkov was reported by the news agency Interfax as saying, "We are sending signals to the Americans that their line of escalation and ever deeper involvement in this conflict is fraught with dire consequences. The risks are growing." Following what they claim was Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the continued occupation of Ukrainian land, and veiled nuclear threats, Kyiv and the West blame Russia for any future escalation. Ryabkov was quoted as adding that although Washington and Moscow "periodically exchange signals," there is no conversation between the two. Also Read: Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general He claimed he was unaware of any communication on a particular US-Russia military hotline set up at the start of what Moscow refers to as "a special military operation." The unique "deconfliction" line between the Russian and American armies has only been used once since the war began, a US official earlier on Tuesday told Reuters. (with inputs from agencies)

Washington's increasing involvement in Ukraine carries growing risks, warns Russia

The United States and Canada have requested China to not use force against the protesters opposing the latest set of lockdowns imposed by the Communist Party of China as part of the Zero Covid policy. With citizens showing dissent in various parts of the country, the top security body in China has&nbsp;already urged the government to launch a “crackdown” on “hostile forces”.

According to video footage, which was verified by AFP, the police clashed with protesters in the city of Guangzhou. The video showed that security personnel in hazmat suits were present in the city’s Haizhu district on Tuesday and screams of people could be heard in the background. It also showed objects being thrown at the police and many people were detained by the authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-import-of-russian-lng-jumps-42-amid-russia-ukraine-war-report-538720">Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report</a>

In response to this incident, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that China should allow people to protest peacefully and not use violence to stop the demonstrations.

“We don’t want to see protesters physically harmed, intimidated or coerced in any way. That’s what peaceful protest is all about and that’s what we have continued to stand up for whether it’s in China or Iran or elsewhere around the world,” he said in an interview with CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scott-morrison-becomes-the-first-former-pm-to-be-censured-by-the-australian-parliament-538686">Scott Morrison becomes the first former PM to be censured by the parliament</a>

Canada also took a similar stance regarding the topic and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the Chinese government should not curb the freedom of expression when it comes to the people.

“Everyone in China should be allowed to express themselves, should be allowed to share their perspectives and indeed protest,” Trudeau said. “We’re going to continue to ensure that China knows we’ll stand up for human rights, we’ll stand with people who are expressing themselves.”

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The United States and Canada have requested China to not use force against the protesters opposing the latest set of lockdowns imposed by the Communist Party of China as part of the Zero Covid policy.

The United States and Canada have requested China to not use force against the protesters opposing the latest set of lockdowns imposed by the Communist Party of China as part of the Zero Covid policy. With citizens showing dissent in various parts of the country, the top security body in China has already urged the government to launch a “crackdown” on “hostile forces”. According to video footage, which was verified by AFP, the police clashed with protesters in the city of Guangzhou. The video showed that security personnel in hazmat suits were present in the city’s Haizhu district on Tuesday and screams of people could be heard in the background. It also showed objects being thrown at the police and many people were detained by the authorities. Also read | Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report In response to this incident, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that China should allow people to protest peacefully and not use violence to stop the demonstrations. “We don’t want to see protesters physically harmed, intimidated or coerced in any way. That’s what peaceful protest is all about and that’s what we have continued to stand up for whether it’s in China or Iran or elsewhere around the world,” he said in an interview with CNN. Also read | Scott Morrison becomes the first former PM to be censured by the parliament Canada also took a similar stance regarding the topic and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the Chinese government should not curb the freedom of expression when it comes to the people. “Everyone in China should be allowed to express themselves, should be allowed to share their perspectives and indeed protest,” Trudeau said. “We’re going to continue to ensure that China knows we’ll stand up for human rights, we’ll stand with people who are expressing themselves.”

US and Canada urge China not to use force for stopping protests against stringent Covid curbs

During his remarks at an electric vehicles component plant in Michigan, President Joe Biden spoke on his intention to compete with China. He also added that the US is not going to be held hostage anymore in chip supply.

US will not be held hostage in chip supply, says Joe Biden during Michigan speech

People gathered outside the Chinese consulates in Toronto and New York on Tuesday (November 29) in support of demonstrations in mainland China.

Watch: Demonstrations in New York & Toronto in support of Chinese protesters

A 16-year-old Pennsylvania boy reportedly admitted through Instagram video chat of murdering a 13-year-old girl. After he was taken into custody, he informed police that "it was an accident," read the criminal complaint. The incident took place in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Police on Friday afternoon was alerted by a girl that she reportedly received a video call and text messages from Joshua Cooper. The girl said that in an Instagram video chat, Cooper told her that he had killed someone. Cooper also sought help from the girl for disposing the body, the complaint said.

When police arrived at Cooper's house in response to the report of the video chat, they observed a young guy sprinting out from the rear of the house who they suspect to be Cooper. Police found the 13-year-old victim inside the home with a "large caliber" gunshot wound to her chest, according to the complaint. The authorities said the girl's family later recognised the victim based on the jewellery she was wearing.

Later, police found and apprehended Cooper. The complaint claims that the suspect was making "unsolicited utterances" as he was being taken into custody. Cooper was saying “sorry” and that he is “going to jail for the rest of his life.” However, Cooper was denied bail on several adult charges which includes criminal homicide. The 16 years old was sent to a juvenile detention centre, according to a police statement, reported CNN.&nbsp;

According to the complaint, Cooper during an interview with detectives reportedly admitted to viewing a Netflix series with the victim in his house. The paper said that the suspect claimed to have been in a previous relationship with the victim. Additionally, according to the complaint, Cooper said that he had accessed his father's safe earlier that day and opened it by replacing the batteries that his father had taken out, rendering the combination lock unoperational. The document stated that he removed, rearranged, and replaced the weapons that were in the safe.

Cooper and his mother reportedly "terminated" the investigators' interview with them before it was finished. According to the Bucks County District Attorney's Office, Cooper's next court date is December 7.

A 16-year-old Pennsylvania boy reportedly admitted through Instagram video chat of murdering a 13-year-old girl. After he was taken into custody, he informed police that "it was an accident," read the criminal complaint.

A 16-year-old Pennsylvania boy reportedly admitted through Instagram video chat of murdering a 13-year-old girl. After he was taken into custody, he informed police that "it was an accident," read the criminal complaint. The incident took place in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Police on Friday afternoon was alerted by a girl that she reportedly received a video call and text messages from Joshua Cooper. The girl said that in an Instagram video chat, Cooper told her that he had killed someone. Cooper also sought help from the girl for disposing the body, the complaint said. When police arrived at Cooper's house in response to the report of the video chat, they observed a young guy sprinting out from the rear of the house who they suspect to be Cooper. Police found the 13-year-old victim inside the home with a "large caliber" gunshot wound to her chest, according to the complaint. The authorities said the girl's family later recognised the victim based on the jewellery she was wearing. Later, police found and apprehended Cooper. The complaint claims that the suspect was making "unsolicited utterances" as he was being taken into custody. Cooper was saying “sorry” and that he is “going to jail for the rest of his life.” However, Cooper was denied bail on several adult charges which includes criminal homicide. The 16 years old was sent to a juvenile detention centre, according to a police statement, reported CNN. According to the complaint, Cooper during an interview with detectives reportedly admitted to viewing a Netflix series with the victim in his house. The paper said that the suspect claimed to have been in a previous relationship with the victim. Additionally, according to the complaint, Cooper said that he had accessed his father's safe earlier that day and opened it by replacing the batteries that his father had taken out, rendering the combination lock unoperational. The document stated that he removed, rearranged, and replaced the weapons that were in the safe. Cooper and his mother reportedly "terminated" the investigators' interview with them before it was finished. According to the Bucks County District Attorney's Office, Cooper's next court date is December 7.

‘Sorry!’: On Instagram video, US teen confesses to killing girl, tells cop it was an ‘accident’

Even though Donald Trump is facing several criminal probes for allegedly breaking federal law by moving documents to Mar-A-Lago upon leaving the White House, The former US president is now boasting about his actions.

US: Trump says he 'openly & transparently' took government documents

All's well that ends well. This phrase encapsulates what occurred to Andrew and Kristy Mackenzie following that tragic day when a motorcycle struck the bike they were riding, throwing them around 60 feet away. The couple, their youngest daughter, and her family were up to celebrate Father's Day in Grottoes, Virginia, on their four-wheeler trip, and they were all there to spend some quality time together. Around 3:30 p.m., after the fun was over, the pair hopped on Andrew's motocycle and rode home. Turning to face her granddaughter and daughter, Kristy waved.

<img alt="Bike" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0f3eafb-7bc5-4579-b263-513d2d9f45e7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bike.png" />

This was the start of the most horrific event they had to endure while in a marriage. The 58-year-old Virginia man felt it was 1993 when he awakened from the horrible occurrence in a hospital bed, and his 37-year-old wife soon realised she was suffering yet another nightmare. However, fate o fate! It has a special surprise for the pair. She contacted one of her closest friends who was there at the couple's 1985 wedding when she was in the hospital one day. She wrote, when "this mess is finished, I'm marrying this man again."&nbsp;

<img alt="Hospital" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="795bc53a-ee52-4257-a646-86adba8a5c97" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hospital%20.png" />

This is precisely how the tale unfolds. In addition to making a full recovery, Andrew would fall in love with Kristy all over again. The first time both of them could walk again without wheelchairs or walkers was during their annual family beach trip to North Carolina's Outer Banks in August. And Andrew had chosen the ideal moment to get down on one knee and propose to Kristy while they were strolling along the beach. On August 29, two days later, the couple renewed their vows in front of their children and grandchildren on North Carolina's Outer Banks. enhancing the uniqueness of the experience.

<img alt="Marriage " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb7a12af-bf12-4eb8-a767-7fec2d7e3d0c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Goa.png" />

<h2>Childhood love &nbsp;</h2>

During a camping trip in Harrisonburg, Virginia, in June 1984, Kristy, then 16 years old, met Andrew, then 19 years old. Over time, love grew. A romance between them was once unthinkable. While Andrew was in the Army and based at neighbouring Fort Bragg, Kristy had a boyfriend. But on weekends, he travelled to Harrisonburg, which is around 10 miles from her house. By August, Kristy had broken up with her boyfriend, and she was seeing Andrew.

No less than some cinderella and price charming story, their love bond just grew stronger and stronger with each passing day until one the day of the tragic&nbsp;crash. Even physicians were unsure if Andrew's memories were lost forever following the incident. For Kristy, it was the scariest day since she was unsure of her husband's recovery."He knew me, but I could see him looking through me," Kristy, 54, tells People, "I tell you, that's the scariest day of my life. Seeing him look through me like that, I didn't know how I was going to get him back."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

All's well that ends well. This phrase encapsulates what occurred to Andrew and Kristy Mackenzie following that tragic day when a motorcycle struck the bike they were riding, throwing them around 60 feet away.

All's well that ends well. This phrase encapsulates what occurred to Andrew and Kristy Mackenzie following that tragic day when a motorcycle struck the bike they were riding, throwing them around 60 feet away. The couple, their youngest daughter, and her family were up to celebrate Father's Day in Grottoes, Virginia, on their four-wheeler trip, and they were all there to spend some quality time together. Around 3:30 p.m., after the fun was over, the pair hopped on Andrew's motocycle and rode home. Turning to face her granddaughter and daughter, Kristy waved. This was the start of the most horrific event they had to endure while in a marriage. The 58-year-old Virginia man felt it was 1993 when he awakened from the horrible occurrence in a hospital bed, and his 37-year-old wife soon realised she was suffering yet another nightmare. However, fate o fate! It has a special surprise for the pair. She contacted one of her closest friends who was there at the couple's 1985 wedding when she was in the hospital one day. She wrote, when "this mess is finished, I'm marrying this man again." This is precisely how the tale unfolds. In addition to making a full recovery, Andrew would fall in love with Kristy all over again. The first time both of them could walk again without wheelchairs or walkers was during their annual family beach trip to North Carolina's Outer Banks in August. And Andrew had chosen the ideal moment to get down on one knee and propose to Kristy while they were strolling along the beach. On August 29, two days later, the couple renewed their vows in front of their children and grandchildren on North Carolina's Outer Banks. enhancing the uniqueness of the experience. Childhood love During a camping trip in Harrisonburg, Virginia, in June 1984, Kristy, then 16 years old, met Andrew, then 19 years old. Over time, love grew. A romance between them was once unthinkable. While Andrew was in the Army and based at neighbouring Fort Bragg, Kristy had a boyfriend. But on weekends, he travelled to Harrisonburg, which is around 10 miles from her house. By August, Kristy had broken up with her boyfriend, and she was seeing Andrew. No less than some cinderella and price charming story, their love bond just grew stronger and stronger with each passing day until one the day of the tragic crash. Even physicians were unsure if Andrew's memories were lost forever following the incident. For Kristy, it was the scariest day since she was unsure of her husband's recovery."He knew me, but I could see him looking through me," Kristy, 54, tells People, "I tell you, that's the scariest day of my life. Seeing him look through me like that, I didn't know how I was going to get him back."

THE ENDING WILL AMAZE YOU! Husband forgets wife after bike accident, thinks it's 1993

A migrant’s camp set up on the Mexican side of the border with the US was dismantled by the Mexico police on Sunday due to security reasons, a local official said. The camps had been set up by around 600 migrants mostly from Venezuela in the city of Ciudad Juarez.

Scuffle between police and migrants near US-Mexico border, camps inhabited over by 600 Venezuelans

The U.S. has infuriated Iran at the football World Cup. The U.S. team uploaded an incorrect version of the Iranian flag on social media, leading to a heated exchange with Iranians. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: U.S.-Iran flag controversy at World Cup

The Biden Administration&nbsp;is expected to announce substantial financial aid to Ukraine on Tuesday to help it deal with the damage caused by Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure, senior US officials said. Brutal attacks by Russia on the country's power grid have left millions with no heat and in darkness.&nbsp;

A senior State Department official said that the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken will announce&nbsp;the aid. The official said that the US has been working with the country's utilities and hardware providers along with European nations to install equipment that would help in restoring high-voltage transmission stations that have been damaged by the Russian missile strikes, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The national grid operator Ukrenergo on Monday that it was forced to carry a regular emergency blackout across the country as it failed to repair the energy plant.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-escalated-the-real-threat-of-chemical-weapons-warns-global-toxic-arms-watchdog-538293">Also read | Ukraine-Russia war escalated the real threat of chemical weapons warns global toxic arms watchdog</a>

Russia has been targeting Ukraine's energy sites since the beginning of October, with each attack causing more damage.

As per sources, the Biden administration has budgeted over a billion dollars for aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Infrastructure in Ukraine has been severely damaged by the Russian strikes&nbsp;and is expected to attack again like last week's bombardments, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zeelemnsky which will leave millions with frigid winters, and no water or power. He described Moscow's invasion as an act of revenge and pledged to rebuild "every site destroyed by&nbsp;the occupiers."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-monitoring-rare-unrest-in-china-as-people-demand-freedom-from-covid-measures-538333">Also read |&nbsp;Joe Biden 'monitoring' rare unrest in China as protesters demand freedom from Covid measures</a>

Kyiv says that these attacks acknowledged by Russia are meant to harm the infrastructure and civilians making it a civil war.&nbsp;&nbsp;With Russia's attacks intensifying, Kyiv's Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told seven Nordic and Baltic foreign ministers that his country needs transformers and improved air defences.

Moscow's "special military operation" in Ukraine has entered its ninth month and it seems the fight might continue.&nbsp;

To help Ukraine, it is expected that Washington might also consider sending a Boeing proposal to supply Ukraine with cheap and small precision bombs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden Administration is expected to announce substantial financial aid to Ukraine on Tuesday to help it deal with the damage caused by Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure, senior US officials said.

The Biden Administration is expected to announce substantial financial aid to Ukraine on Tuesday to help it deal with the damage caused by Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure, senior US officials said. Brutal attacks by Russia on the country's power grid have left millions with no heat and in darkness. A senior State Department official said that the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken will announce the aid. The official said that the US has been working with the country's utilities and hardware providers along with European nations to install equipment that would help in restoring high-voltage transmission stations that have been damaged by the Russian missile strikes, Reuters reported. The national grid operator Ukrenergo on Monday that it was forced to carry a regular emergency blackout across the country as it failed to repair the energy plant. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war escalated the real threat of chemical weapons warns global toxic arms watchdog Russia has been targeting Ukraine's energy sites since the beginning of October, with each attack causing more damage. As per sources, the Biden administration has budgeted over a billion dollars for aid to Ukraine. Infrastructure in Ukraine has been severely damaged by the Russian strikes and is expected to attack again like last week's bombardments, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zeelemnsky which will leave millions with frigid winters, and no water or power. He described Moscow's invasion as an act of revenge and pledged to rebuild "every site destroyed by the occupiers." Also read | Joe Biden 'monitoring' rare unrest in China as protesters demand freedom from Covid measures Kyiv says that these attacks acknowledged by Russia are meant to harm the infrastructure and civilians making it a civil war. With Russia's attacks intensifying, Kyiv's Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told seven Nordic and Baltic foreign ministers that his country needs transformers and improved air defences. Moscow's "special military operation" in Ukraine has entered its ninth month and it seems the fight might continue. To help Ukraine, it is expected that Washington might also consider sending a Boeing proposal to supply Ukraine with cheap and small precision bombs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US to announce energy aid for Ukraine to help restore electricity, Zelensky expects more attacks 

Exercise Yudh Abhyas is the largest running joint military training endeavour between India and the US – and this year it’s happening right in front of China.

India and U.S. armies conduct military drills near LAC

Former US President Donald Trump brags about moving White House files

Leon Black, the billionaire co-founder of private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc, was sued on Monday by a woman who said he raped her two decades ago in the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's Manhattan mansion.

Cheri Pierson said she had been a cash-strapped single mother who had already given Epstein five massages for $300 each, when the financier arranged in the spring of 2002 for her to massage Black for $300.

She said Black, who was eight inches taller and weighed more than twice as much, without her consent physically overwhelmed her and caused "excruciating pain" in their encounter on the third floor of Epstein's home.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-victims-sue-deutsche-bank-jpmorgan-alleging-cover-up-537388">Jeffrey Epstein victims sue Deutsche Bank, JPMorgan alleging cover-up</a>

Susan Estrich, a lawyer for Black, called Pierson's lawsuit "categorically false and part of a scheme to extort money from Mr. Black by threatening to destroy his reputation....We intend to defeat these baseless claims."

Pierson's lawsuit in a New York state court in Manhattan seeks unspecified damages from Black for sexual assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress, and from Epstein's estate for negligence.

Her law firm Wigdor LLP also represents Guzel Ganieva, a former Russian model who in June 2021 sued Black for defamation, saying he falsely claimed she tried to extort him after accusing him of rape.

In a Nov. 19 letter to the Wigdor firm, Estrich said: "Mr. Black never sexually assaulted anyone anywhere at any time." She also said Black may bring defamation claims or seek sanctions if Pierson sued.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jeffrey-epstein-and-virginia-giuffres-secret-settlement-deal-from-2009-released-442167">Jeffrey Epstein and Virginia Giuffre's secret settlement deal from 2009 released</a>

Lawyers for Epstein's estate did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Black is worth $9 billion according to Forbes magazine.

Pierson sued under New York's Adult Survivors Act, a new law giving sexual assault victims a one-year window to sue their alleged abusers, even if the misconduct occurred long ago and statutes of limitations have expired.

Epstein killed himself in August 2019 in a Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

His former associate Ghislaine Maxwell is appealing her conviction and 20-year prison sentence for enabling Epstein's abuse of underage girls.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/where-is-jeffrey-epsteins-money-going-448444">Where is Jeffrey Epstein’s money going?</a>

Pierson said Epstein had introduced her to Black, describing him as someone who could "help" her, implying financial help.

She said that after the alleged rape, Black began calling her, saying he "wanted to talk" and felt "bad."

Pierson said they met at a bar in the St. Regis Hotel where Black gave her $5,000, ostensibly to reduce her credit card debt.

She said he called later and said "I want to see you," and she refused.

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Leon Black, the billionaire co-founder of private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc, was sued on Monday by a woman who said he raped her two decades ago in the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's Manhattan mansion.

Leon Black, the billionaire co-founder of private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc, was sued on Monday by a woman who said he raped her two decades ago in the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's Manhattan mansion. Cheri Pierson said she had been a cash-strapped single mother who had already given Epstein five massages for $300 each, when the financier arranged in the spring of 2002 for her to massage Black for $300. She said Black, who was eight inches taller and weighed more than twice as much, without her consent physically overwhelmed her and caused "excruciating pain" in their encounter on the third floor of Epstein's home. ALSO READ | Jeffrey Epstein victims sue Deutsche Bank, JPMorgan alleging cover-up Susan Estrich, a lawyer for Black, called Pierson's lawsuit "categorically false and part of a scheme to extort money from Mr. Black by threatening to destroy his reputation....We intend to defeat these baseless claims." Pierson's lawsuit in a New York state court in Manhattan seeks unspecified damages from Black for sexual assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress, and from Epstein's estate for negligence. Her law firm Wigdor LLP also represents Guzel Ganieva, a former Russian model who in June 2021 sued Black for defamation, saying he falsely claimed she tried to extort him after accusing him of rape. In a Nov. 19 letter to the Wigdor firm, Estrich said: "Mr. Black never sexually assaulted anyone anywhere at any time." She also said Black may bring defamation claims or seek sanctions if Pierson sued. ALSO WATCH | Jeffrey Epstein and Virginia Giuffre's secret settlement deal from 2009 released Lawyers for Epstein's estate did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Black is worth $9 billion according to Forbes magazine. Pierson sued under New York's Adult Survivors Act, a new law giving sexual assault victims a one-year window to sue their alleged abusers, even if the misconduct occurred long ago and statutes of limitations have expired. Epstein killed himself in August 2019 in a Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His former associate Ghislaine Maxwell is appealing her conviction and 20-year prison sentence for enabling Epstein's abuse of underage girls. ALSO READ | Where is Jeffrey Epstein’s money going? Pierson said Epstein had introduced her to Black, describing him as someone who could "help" her, implying financial help. She said that after the alleged rape, Black began calling her, saying he "wanted to talk" and felt "bad." Pierson said they met at a bar in the St. Regis Hotel where Black gave her $5,000, ostensibly to reduce her credit card debt. She said he called later and said "I want to see you," and she refused. 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.

Leon Black accused in lawsuit of raping woman in Jeffrey Epstein's mansion

The world's largest active volcano burst into life for the first time in 40 years, spewing lava and hot ash Monday in a spectacular display of nature's fury by Mauna Loa in Hawaii.

Watch: The world's largest active volcano burst into life for the first time in 40 years

The race to dominate 5G revolution is intensifying. In the latest instance, U.S. has banned 5 Chinese telecom companies from selling their equipment in the country. Why? America says due to threats to national security. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas | 5G race: U.S-China battle heats up

The newest information from the University of Michigan’s client sentiment index exhibits American customers are still not feeling very confident in regards to the state of the US economic system this holiday season.

US President Joe Biden faces a broad set of challenges at home this holiday season

In the&nbsp;first ceremony of such kind, four US Army officers were handed promotions near Nada Devi, the second-highest peak in the Himalayas. The officers were part of 11th Airborne division of the US Army. Twitter handle of US Army's Pacific division tweeted about this

"In full view of Nanda Devi, the second-tallest mountain in the tallest mountain range in the world, Capt. Cerruti, Lt. Russell, Lt. Brown and Lt. Hack became the first four @USArmy Officers to be promoted in the Himalayas during Yudh Abhyas Exercise," US Army tweeted.

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In full view of Nanda Devi, the second-tallest mountain in the tallest mountain range in the world, Capt. Cerruti, Lt. Russell, Lt. Brown and Lt. Hack became the first four <a href="https://twitter.com/USArmy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USArmy</a> Officers to be promoted in the Himalayas during Yudh Abhyas Exercise.<a href="https://twitter.com/USArmy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USArmy</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/USARPAC_CG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USARPAC_CG</a> <a href="https://t.co/2ICcBcj7Ju">pic.twitter.com/2ICcBcj7Ju</a>
— U.S. Army Pacific (@USARPAC) <a href="https://twitter.com/USARPAC/status/1596911737260883968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Indian and US armies are currently engaged in joint military exercise in the Himalayas. The drills will go on for two weeks. The 'Yudh Abhyas'&nbsp;military exercise is an annual exercise between India and the US. They are held with the aim of exchanging best practices, tactics, procedures and techniques between armies of the two countries. The exercise is also aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two forces.

'Yudh Abhyas'&nbsp;exercise is also going to focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. Indian defence ministry has said that Indian and US soldiers will carry out practice of swift and co-ordinated relief efforts to be taken in case of natural calamity.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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&nbsp;

In the first ceremony of such kind, four US Army officers were handed promotions near Nada Devi, the second-highest peak in the Himalayas. The officers were part of 11th Airborne division of the US Army.

In the first ceremony of such kind, four US Army officers were handed promotions near Nada Devi, the second-highest peak in the Himalayas. The officers were part of 11th Airborne division of the US Army. Twitter handle of US Army's Pacific division tweeted about this "In full view of Nanda Devi, the second-tallest mountain in the tallest mountain range in the world, Capt. Cerruti, Lt. Russell, Lt. Brown and Lt. Hack became the first four @USArmy Officers to be promoted in the Himalayas during Yudh Abhyas Exercise," US Army tweeted. In full view of Nanda Devi, the second-tallest mountain in the tallest mountain range in the world, Capt. Cerruti, Lt. Russell, Lt. Brown and Lt. Hack became the first four @USArmy Officers to be promoted in the Himalayas during Yudh Abhyas Exercise.@USArmy .@USARPAC_CG pic.twitter.com/2ICcBcj7Ju — U.S. Army Pacific (@USARPAC) November 27, 2022 × Indian and US armies are currently engaged in joint military exercise in the Himalayas. The drills will go on for two weeks. The 'Yudh Abhyas' military exercise is an annual exercise between India and the US. They are held with the aim of exchanging best practices, tactics, procedures and techniques between armies of the two countries. The exercise is also aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two forces. 'Yudh Abhyas' exercise is also going to focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. Indian defence ministry has said that Indian and US soldiers will carry out practice of swift and co-ordinated relief efforts to be taken in case of natural calamity. 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 ×

Four US military officers promoted in Himalayas during Indo-US drills

The Pentagon is considering a Boeing proposal to supply Ukraine with cheap, small precision bombs fitted onto abundantly available rockets, allowing Kyiv to strike far behind Russian lines as the West struggles to meet demand for more arms.

U.S. and allied military inventories are shrinking, and Ukraine faces an increasing need for more sophisticated weapons as the war drags on. Boeing's proposed system, dubbed Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB), is one of about a half-dozen plans for getting new munitions into production for Ukraine and America's Eastern European allies, industry sources said.

GLSDB could be delivered as early as spring 2023, according to a document reviewed by Reuters and three people familiar with the plan. It combines the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) with the M26 rocket motor, both of which are common in U.S. inventories.

Doug Bush, the U.S. Army's chief weapons buyer, told reporters at the Pentagon last week the Army was also looking at accelerating production of 155 millimeter artillery shells - currently only manufactured at government facilities - by allowing defense contractors to build them.

The invasion of Ukraine drove up demand for American-made weapons and ammunition, while U.S. allies in Eastern Europe are "putting a lot of orders," in for a range of arms as they supply Ukraine, Bush added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-forces-with-ulterior-motives-are-linking-urumqi-fire-with-covid-curbs-538123">Beijing blames 'forces with ulterior motives' for fuelling rage in the country</a>

"It's about getting quantity at a cheap cost," said Tom Karako, a weapons and security expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He said falling U.S. inventories help explain the rush to get more arms now, saying stockpiles are "getting low relative to the levels we like to keep on hand and certainly to the levels we're going to need to deter a China conflict."

Karako also noted that the U.S. exit from Afghanistan left lots of air-dropped bombs available. They cannot be easily used with Ukrainian aircraft, but "in today's context we should be looking for innovative ways to convert them to standoff capability."

Although a handful of GLSDB units have already been made, there are many logistical obstacles to formal procurement. The Boeing plan requires a price discovery waiver, exempting the contractor from an in-depth review that ensures the Pentagon is getting the best deal possible. Any arrangement would also require at least six suppliers to expedite shipments of their parts and services to produce the weapon quickly.

A Boeing spokesperson declined to comment. Pentagon spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Tim Gorman declined to comment on providing any "specific capability" to Ukraine, but said the U.S. and its allies "identify and consider the most appropriate systems" that would help Kyiv.

Although the United States has rebuffed requests for the 185-mile (297km) range ATACMS missile, the GLSDB's 94-mile (150km) range would allow Ukraine to hit valuable military targets that have been out of reach and help it continue pressing its counterattacks by disrupting Russian rear areas.

GLSDB is made jointly by SAAB AB (SAABb.ST) and Boeing Co (BA.N) and has been in development since 2019, well before the invasion, which Russia calls a "special operation". In October, SAAB chief executive Micael Johansson said of the GLSDB: "We are imminently shortly expecting contracts on that."

According to the document - a Boeing proposal to U.S. European Command (EUCOM), which is overseeing weapons headed to Ukraine - the main components of the GLSDB would come from current U.S. stores.

The M26 rocket motor is relatively abundant, and the GBU-39 costs about $40,000 each, making the completed GLSDB inexpensive and its main components readily available. Although arms manufacturers are struggling with demand, those factors make it possible to yield weapons by early 2023, albeit at a low rate of production.

GLSDB is GPS-guided, can defeat some electronic jamming, is usable in all weather conditions, and can be used against armored vehicles, according to SAAB's website. The GBU-39 - which would function as the GLSDB's warhead - has small, folding wings that allow it to glide more than 100km if dropped from an aircraft and targets as small as 3 feet in diameter.

INDUSTRY MOTIVATION

At a production plant in rural Arkansas, Lockheed Martin is redoubling efforts to meet surging demand for mobile rocket launchers known as HIMARS, which have been successful in hitting Russian supply lines, command posts and even individual tanks. The No. 1 U.S. defense contractor is working through supply chain issues and labor shortages to double production to 96 launchers a year.

Lockheed Martin has posted more than 15 jobs related to the production of HIMARS, including supply chain quality engineers, purchasing analysts, and testing engineers, according to its website.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/authorities-remove-mexican-migrant-camps-at-us-border-citing-security-as-reason-538006">Officials remove Mexican migrant camps at US border citing 'security' reasons</a>

"We've made investments in terms of infrastructure in the factory where we build HIMARS," said Becky Withrow, a sales leader at Lockheed Martin's missile unit.

Despite the increase in demand, Lockheed Martin's chief financial officer told Reuters in July that he did not expect significant Ukraine-induced revenue until 2024 or beyond. The CFO of Raytheon Corp (RTX.N), another major U.S. defense contractor, echoed that timeline in an interview with Reuters this summer.

HIMARS fires Guided Multiple Rocket Launch System missiles (GMLRS), which are GPS-guided rounds with 200-pound (90kg) warheads. Lockheed Martin make about 4,600 of the missiles per year; more than 5,000 have been sent to Ukraine so far, according to a Reuters analysis. The U.S. has not disclosed how many GMLRS rounds have been supplied to Ukraine.

Repurposing weapons for regular military use is not a new tactic. The NASAMS anti-aircraft system, developed by Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace and Raytheon, uses AIM-120 missiles - originally meant to be fired from fighter jets at other aircraft. Another weapon, the Joint-Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), ubiquitous in U.S. inventories, is a standard unguided bomb that has been fitted with fins and a GPS guidance system.

The Pentagon is considering a Boeing proposal to supply Ukraine with cheap, small precision bombs fitted onto abundantly available rockets, allowing Kyiv to strike far behind Russian lines as the West struggles to meet demand for more arms.

The Pentagon is considering a Boeing proposal to supply Ukraine with cheap, small precision bombs fitted onto abundantly available rockets, allowing Kyiv to strike far behind Russian lines as the West struggles to meet demand for more arms. U.S. and allied military inventories are shrinking, and Ukraine faces an increasing need for more sophisticated weapons as the war drags on. Boeing's proposed system, dubbed Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB), is one of about a half-dozen plans for getting new munitions into production for Ukraine and America's Eastern European allies, industry sources said. GLSDB could be delivered as early as spring 2023, according to a document reviewed by Reuters and three people familiar with the plan. It combines the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) with the M26 rocket motor, both of which are common in U.S. inventories. Doug Bush, the U.S. Army's chief weapons buyer, told reporters at the Pentagon last week the Army was also looking at accelerating production of 155 millimeter artillery shells - currently only manufactured at government facilities - by allowing defense contractors to build them. The invasion of Ukraine drove up demand for American-made weapons and ammunition, while U.S. allies in Eastern Europe are "putting a lot of orders," in for a range of arms as they supply Ukraine, Bush added. Also read | Beijing blames 'forces with ulterior motives' for fuelling rage in the country "It's about getting quantity at a cheap cost," said Tom Karako, a weapons and security expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He said falling U.S. inventories help explain the rush to get more arms now, saying stockpiles are "getting low relative to the levels we like to keep on hand and certainly to the levels we're going to need to deter a China conflict." Karako also noted that the U.S. exit from Afghanistan left lots of air-dropped bombs available. They cannot be easily used with Ukrainian aircraft, but "in today's context we should be looking for innovative ways to convert them to standoff capability." Although a handful of GLSDB units have already been made, there are many logistical obstacles to formal procurement. The Boeing plan requires a price discovery waiver, exempting the contractor from an in-depth review that ensures the Pentagon is getting the best deal possible. Any arrangement would also require at least six suppliers to expedite shipments of their parts and services to produce the weapon quickly. A Boeing spokesperson declined to comment. Pentagon spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Tim Gorman declined to comment on providing any "specific capability" to Ukraine, but said the U.S. and its allies "identify and consider the most appropriate systems" that would help Kyiv. Although the United States has rebuffed requests for the 185-mile (297km) range ATACMS missile, the GLSDB's 94-mile (150km) range would allow Ukraine to hit valuable military targets that have been out of reach and help it continue pressing its counterattacks by disrupting Russian rear areas. GLSDB is made jointly by SAAB AB (SAABb.ST) and Boeing Co (BA.N) and has been in development since 2019, well before the invasion, which Russia calls a "special operation". In October, SAAB chief executive Micael Johansson said of the GLSDB: "We are imminently shortly expecting contracts on that." According to the document - a Boeing proposal to U.S. European Command (EUCOM), which is overseeing weapons headed to Ukraine - the main components of the GLSDB would come from current U.S. stores. The M26 rocket motor is relatively abundant, and the GBU-39 costs about $40,000 each, making the completed GLSDB inexpensive and its main components readily available. Although arms manufacturers are struggling with demand, those factors make it possible to yield weapons by early 2023, albeit at a low rate of production. GLSDB is GPS-guided, can defeat some electronic jamming, is usable in all weather conditions, and can be used against armored vehicles, according to SAAB's website. The GBU-39 - which would function as the GLSDB's warhead - has small, folding wings that allow it to glide more than 100km if dropped from an aircraft and targets as small as 3 feet in diameter. INDUSTRY MOTIVATION At a production plant in rural Arkansas, Lockheed Martin is redoubling efforts to meet surging demand for mobile rocket launchers known as HIMARS, which have been successful in hitting Russian supply lines, command posts and even individual tanks. The No. 1 U.S. defense contractor is working through supply chain issues and labor shortages to double production to 96 launchers a year. Lockheed Martin has posted more than 15 jobs related to the production of HIMARS, including supply chain quality engineers, purchasing analysts, and testing engineers, according to its website. Also read | Officials remove Mexican migrant camps at US border citing 'security' reasons "We've made investments in terms of infrastructure in the factory where we build HIMARS," said Becky Withrow, a sales leader at Lockheed Martin's missile unit. Despite the increase in demand, Lockheed Martin's chief financial officer told Reuters in July that he did not expect significant Ukraine-induced revenue until 2024 or beyond. The CFO of Raytheon Corp (RTX.N), another major U.S. defense contractor, echoed that timeline in an interview with Reuters this summer. HIMARS fires Guided Multiple Rocket Launch System missiles (GMLRS), which are GPS-guided rounds with 200-pound (90kg) warheads. Lockheed Martin make about 4,600 of the missiles per year; more than 5,000 have been sent to Ukraine so far, according to a Reuters analysis. The U.S. has not disclosed how many GMLRS rounds have been supplied to Ukraine. Repurposing weapons for regular military use is not a new tactic. The NASAMS anti-aircraft system, developed by Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace and Raytheon, uses AIM-120 missiles - originally meant to be fired from fighter jets at other aircraft. Another weapon, the Joint-Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), ubiquitous in U.S. inventories, is a standard unguided bomb that has been fitted with fins and a GPS guidance system.

United States weighs sending 100-mile strike weapon to Ukraine

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