Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, is facing a surge in demand from lawmakers to share information regarding the alleged use of an experimental drug on puppies.&nbsp;The demand has come from both the parties of the country. &nbsp;

On Friday, Democratic and Republican lawmakers sent a letter to Biden and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a request to share details regarding the alleged infection of 44 beagle puppies with parasites in order to test an experimental drug on them, the Hill reported. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-popularity-drops-more-than-that-of-any-other-us-leader-since-end-of-wwii-poll-423840" hreflang="en">Biden’s popularity drops more than that of any other US prez since WWII: Poll</a>

"We write with grave concerns about reports of costly, cruel, and unnecessary tax-payer funded experiments on dogs commissioned by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases," said the letter, which was signed by Republican South Carolina Rep Nancy Mace and 23 other lawmakers. &nbsp;

The letter goes on to state that according to invoices obtained through a Freedom of Information Act filing, cordectomies were performed on six- to eight-month-old dogs. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-russians-will-have-to-visit-warsaw-to-get-immigrant-visas-for-us-423730" hreflang="en">Now, Russians will have to visit Warsaw to get immigrant visas for US</a>

"As you are likely aware, a cordectomy, also known as 'devocalisation,' involves splitting a dog's vocal cords in order to prevent them from barking, howling, or crying," the letter points out, explaining that this type of procedure is opposed by organisations, such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, is facing a surge in demand from lawmakers to share information regarding the alleged use of an experimental drug on puppies.

Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, is facing a surge in demand from lawmakers to share information regarding the alleged use of an experimental drug on puppies. The demand has come from both the parties of the country. On Friday, Democratic and Republican lawmakers sent a letter to Biden and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a request to share details regarding the alleged infection of 44 beagle puppies with parasites in order to test an experimental drug on them, the Hill reported. Also Read | Biden’s popularity drops more than that of any other US prez since WWII: Poll "We write with grave concerns about reports of costly, cruel, and unnecessary tax-payer funded experiments on dogs commissioned by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases," said the letter, which was signed by Republican South Carolina Rep Nancy Mace and 23 other lawmakers. The letter goes on to state that according to invoices obtained through a Freedom of Information Act filing, cordectomies were performed on six- to eight-month-old dogs. Also Read: Now, Russians will have to visit Warsaw to get immigrant visas for US "As you are likely aware, a cordectomy, also known as 'devocalisation,' involves splitting a dog's vocal cords in order to prevent them from barking, howling, or crying," the letter points out, explaining that this type of procedure is opposed by organisations, such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers seek info from Fauci over alleged experiments on puppies

A former top Saudi intelligence official who is living in exile accused Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday of targeting him, and made an unprecedented public plea to the Biden administration to help obtain the release of his children jailed in Saudi Arabia.

Saad al-Jabri was long an aide to another Saudi royal, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, whom bin Salman, or MbS, ousted as heir to the throne in a 2017 palace coup. MbS is now de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, the world`s top oil exporter and a US&nbsp;ally.

In August 2019, Jabri, who now lives in Canada, filed a 107-page lawsuit in a US&nbsp;court alleging that the crown prince "dispatched a "hit squad" to kill him in October 2018 and that Canadian authorities foiled the attempt. 
&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-excessive-make-up-restricted-dressing-saudi-arabias-dress-code-for-formula-1-sparks-controversy-422060">No excessive make-up, restricted dressing: Saudi Arabia's dress code for Formula 1 sparks controversy</a>

Last year, a Saudi court jailed two of Saad al-Jabri's adult children for money laundering and conspiracy to escape the kingdom unlawfully, charges they deny.

In his first interview since leaving the kingdom, Jabri said MbS has "no empathy," and that the 36-year old leader is a threat to the people of Saudi Arabia, Americans and the rest of the world.

"I have to speak out. I am appealing to the American people and to the American administration to help me to release those children and to restore their life," a visibly emotional Jabri told CBS television's "60 Minutes" show.

The Saudi embassy in Washington and the Saudi government media office CIC did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

The "60 Minutes" Twitter account posted a statement from the Saudi embassy in Washington that said Jabri was a "discredited former government official with a long history of fabricating".

The crown prince's lawyers have rejected Jabri's allegations and said MbS has legal immunity in the United States as a foreign head of state.

Last year, MbS's lawyer, Michael Kellogg, dismissed the allegations, describing them as "steeped in drama."

Fear of being Killed

Jabri's allegations come more than three years after Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi-born US&nbsp;resident who wrote opinion columns for the Washington Post critical of MbS, was killed and dismembered by a team of operatives linked to the prince in the kingdom`s consulate in Istanbul.

The Saudi government has denied any involvement by the crown prince, but a US&nbsp;intelligence report concluded in February that he had approved of an operation to capture or kill Khashoggi, although the Biden administration did not directly penalise MbS.

US President Joe Biden has taken a tougher stand with Riyadh on its human rights record and the Yemen war than his predecessor Donald Trump, who had strong ties with MbS. 
Jabri spent many years as bin Nayef's closest aide at the Ministry of Interior, including helping to overhaul the kingdom's intelligence and counterterrorism operations.

In January, a group of Saudi state-owned firms alleged in a lawsuit in Canada that Jabri embezzled billions of dollars of state funds while working at the Ministry of Interior.

Jabri denied stealing any money, saying he had served Saudi royals for two decades and they had been "very generous" under a tradition whereby "they take care of people around them".

The Saudi embassy statement to "60 Minutes" said reforms led by Prince Mohammed have "put an end to this type of gross corruption".

In the interview, Jabri said he had recorded a video revealing more information that could be released should he be killed. "I expect to be killed one day because this guy will not rest off until he sees me dead," he said.

A former top Saudi intelligence official who is living in exile accused Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday of targeting him, and made an unprecedented public plea to the Biden administration to help obtain the release of his children jailed in Saudi Arabia.

A former top Saudi intelligence official who is living in exile accused Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday of targeting him, and made an unprecedented public plea to the Biden administration to help obtain the release of his children jailed in Saudi Arabia. Saad al-Jabri was long an aide to another Saudi royal, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, whom bin Salman, or MbS, ousted as heir to the throne in a 2017 palace coup. MbS is now de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, the world`s top oil exporter and a US ally. In August 2019, Jabri, who now lives in Canada, filed a 107-page lawsuit in a US court alleging that the crown prince "dispatched a "hit squad" to kill him in October 2018 and that Canadian authorities foiled the attempt. Also Read | No excessive make-up, restricted dressing: Saudi Arabia's dress code for Formula 1 sparks controversy Last year, a Saudi court jailed two of Saad al-Jabri's adult children for money laundering and conspiracy to escape the kingdom unlawfully, charges they deny. In his first interview since leaving the kingdom, Jabri said MbS has "no empathy," and that the 36-year old leader is a threat to the people of Saudi Arabia, Americans and the rest of the world. "I have to speak out. I am appealing to the American people and to the American administration to help me to release those children and to restore their life," a visibly emotional Jabri told CBS television's "60 Minutes" show. The Saudi embassy in Washington and the Saudi government media office CIC did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. The "60 Minutes" Twitter account posted a statement from the Saudi embassy in Washington that said Jabri was a "discredited former government official with a long history of fabricating". The crown prince's lawyers have rejected Jabri's allegations and said MbS has legal immunity in the United States as a foreign head of state. Last year, MbS's lawyer, Michael Kellogg, dismissed the allegations, describing them as "steeped in drama." Fear of being Killed Jabri's allegations come more than three years after Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi-born US resident who wrote opinion columns for the Washington Post critical of MbS, was killed and dismembered by a team of operatives linked to the prince in the kingdom`s consulate in Istanbul. The Saudi government has denied any involvement by the crown prince, but a US intelligence report concluded in February that he had approved of an operation to capture or kill Khashoggi, although the Biden administration did not directly penalise MbS. US President Joe Biden has taken a tougher stand with Riyadh on its human rights record and the Yemen war than his predecessor Donald Trump, who had strong ties with MbS. Jabri spent many years as bin Nayef's closest aide at the Ministry of Interior, including helping to overhaul the kingdom's intelligence and counterterrorism operations. In January, a group of Saudi state-owned firms alleged in a lawsuit in Canada that Jabri embezzled billions of dollars of state funds while working at the Ministry of Interior. Jabri denied stealing any money, saying he had served Saudi royals for two decades and they had been "very generous" under a tradition whereby "they take care of people around them". The Saudi embassy statement to "60 Minutes" said reforms led by Prince Mohammed have "put an end to this type of gross corruption". In the interview, Jabri said he had recorded a video revealing more information that could be released should he be killed. "I expect to be killed one day because this guy will not rest off until he sees me dead," he said.

Former Saudi spymaster seeks US help for his jailed children

The United States on Monday provided as many as 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal through COVAX. This adds up to the 1.53 million J&amp;J vaccines given by the US to Nepal in July.

Nepal has been using various COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by different companies that they have received under the COVAX programme besides the ones they purchased from India and China.&nbsp;

The US Embassy announced on Twitter, “100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccine have just arrived in Nepal. These vaccines have been donated by the US government to Nepal to fight COVID-19 in partnership with COVAX. Stay tuned for more.”

US Ambassador to Nepal, Randy Berry, who also happens to mark her third anniversary as the Ambassador to Nepal, further committed to supporting Nepal to fight the pandemic.&nbsp;

<img alt="US donates 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines to Nepal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6731b8f5-0ef4-467e-bd53-07853e572d19" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FChDxztWYAAYZcz.jpeg" />

“I am beyond thrilled that today we donated 100,620 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal. This is part of our ongoing commitment to the Nepali people since the beginning of the pandemic, including 1.53 million J&amp;J vaccines. Beyond vaccines, our assistance to-date totals over $122M,” Ambassador Berry said in a tweet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-has-been-breaching-nepal-china-border-rules-in-humla-report-423358">Also read |&nbsp;China has been breaching Nepal-China border rules in Humla: Report</a>

“Along with today's donation, USAID and #COVAX partners helped to ensure safe cold storage and handling of these vaccines to get shots in arms. This will benefit Nepalis now and in the future,” he said in another tweet.&nbsp;

The Nepal Foreign Ministry thanked the US for its help and support in combating the coronavirus pandemic through shipments of COVID-19 vaccine doses.&nbsp;

“The US has provided 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines in support of Nepal's vaccination drive. The vaccines received through COVAX is in addition to the earlier tranche of 1.53 million doses. Nepal is grateful for the generosity extended by the US at this critical time,” MoFA said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The donation comes two days after the Ambassador met the Nepali Health Minister in Kathmandu.&nbsp;

“Today, as part of regular diplomatic engagement, Ambassador Berry met with Health Minister Birodh Khatiwada. The two discussed bilateral issues including cooperation on COVID-19,” the Embassy had earlier said in a tweet. &nbsp;

As of Sunday, 8,606,988 Nepalis have received at least one dose of the anti-COVID vaccine, which is 28.3 per cent of the total population.&nbsp;

Likewise, 6,604,173 people have received both doses, which is nearly 22 per cent of the country’s population.&nbsp;

Nepal’s recovery currently stands at 97.3 per cent. The active cases stand at 1.53 per cent and the death rate is at 1.4 per cent.&nbsp;

The United States on Monday provided as many as 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal through COVAX. This adds up to the 1.53 million J&J vaccines given by the US to Nepal in July.

The United States on Monday provided as many as 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal through COVAX. This adds up to the 1.53 million J&J vaccines given by the US to Nepal in July. Nepal has been using various COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by different companies that they have received under the COVAX programme besides the ones they purchased from India and China. The US Embassy announced on Twitter, “100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccine have just arrived in Nepal. These vaccines have been donated by the US government to Nepal to fight COVID-19 in partnership with COVAX. Stay tuned for more.” US Ambassador to Nepal, Randy Berry, who also happens to mark her third anniversary as the Ambassador to Nepal, further committed to supporting Nepal to fight the pandemic. “I am beyond thrilled that today we donated 100,620 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal. This is part of our ongoing commitment to the Nepali people since the beginning of the pandemic, including 1.53 million J&J vaccines. Beyond vaccines, our assistance to-date totals over $122M,” Ambassador Berry said in a tweet. Also read | China has been breaching Nepal-China border rules in Humla: Report “Along with today's donation, USAID and #COVAX partners helped to ensure safe cold storage and handling of these vaccines to get shots in arms. This will benefit Nepalis now and in the future,” he said in another tweet. The Nepal Foreign Ministry thanked the US for its help and support in combating the coronavirus pandemic through shipments of COVID-19 vaccine doses. “The US has provided 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines in support of Nepal's vaccination drive. The vaccines received through COVAX is in addition to the earlier tranche of 1.53 million doses. Nepal is grateful for the generosity extended by the US at this critical time,” MoFA said in a tweet. The donation comes two days after the Ambassador met the Nepali Health Minister in Kathmandu. “Today, as part of regular diplomatic engagement, Ambassador Berry met with Health Minister Birodh Khatiwada. The two discussed bilateral issues including cooperation on COVID-19,” the Embassy had earlier said in a tweet. As of Sunday, 8,606,988 Nepalis have received at least one dose of the anti-COVID vaccine, which is 28.3 per cent of the total population. Likewise, 6,604,173 people have received both doses, which is nearly 22 per cent of the country’s population. Nepal’s recovery currently stands at 97.3 per cent. The active cases stand at 1.53 per cent and the death rate is at 1.4 per cent.

US donates 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines to Nepal

One person was killed and eight people were injured in a shooting incident on Saturday night near student campus of the Fort Valley State University in the US state of Georgia, local authorities said.

"The GBI (Georgia Bureau of Investigation)&nbsp;is investigating a shooting incident that happened at an off-campus party in Fort Valley, GA.

A total of eight people were shot. Of the eight people, one person has died," the police said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-contain-beijing-anger-after-biden-vows-taiwan-defense-423109">US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense</a>

The person that died was not a student at the Fort Valley State University, the GBI noted.

Currently, the seven injured victims are reportedly in stable condition.

The investigators are requesting assistance in identifying those responsible for the shooting. No one has been arrested yet.

Following the shooting, the campus was put on lockdown for security reasons. It has already been lifted, and students can freely leave and visit the campus. However, the university has cancelled public events scheduled for the morning.

One person was killed and eight people were injured in a shooting incident on Saturday night near student campus of the Fort Valley State University in the US state of Georgia, local authorities said.

One person was killed and eight people were injured in a shooting incident on Saturday night near student campus of the Fort Valley State University in the US state of Georgia, local authorities said. "The GBI (Georgia Bureau of Investigation) is investigating a shooting incident that happened at an off-campus party in Fort Valley, GA. A total of eight people were shot. Of the eight people, one person has died," the police said. Also Read | US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense The person that died was not a student at the Fort Valley State University, the GBI noted. Currently, the seven injured victims are reportedly in stable condition. The investigators are requesting assistance in identifying those responsible for the shooting. No one has been arrested yet. Following the shooting, the campus was put on lockdown for security reasons. It has already been lifted, and students can freely leave and visit the campus. However, the university has cancelled public events scheduled for the morning.

US: 1 killed, 7 injured in shooting near university campus

Former US president Barack Obama urged voters on Saturday to back the Democrat in a neck-and-neck state election touted as a test of the party's prospects in next year's midterm elections -&nbsp;casting the Republican as a threat to democracy.

Democrat Terry McAuliffe, who is vying for a second term as Virginia's governor, has seen his lead extinguished in recent polls and is in a dead heat with Republican Glenn Youngkin ahead of the November 2 vote.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-banned-on-twitter-and-fb-to-launch-his-own-social-network-422513">Donald Trump, banned on Twitter and FB, to launch his own social network</a>

Obama told a cheering crowd of several hundred rapt supporters at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond that Youngkin would cut teaching jobs, restrict abortion access and back Donald Trump's fraudulent campaign to convince Americans that the last election was stolen from him by President Joe Biden.

"As far as I can tell, the big message of Terry's opponent is that he's a regular guy because he wears a fleece. And he's accusing schools of brainwashing our kids," Obama said,

"He's also said he wanted to audit the voting machines used in the last presidential election again. Really? Encouraging the lies and conspiracy theories that we've had to live through all this time? And yeah, we're supposed to believe he's going to stand up for our democracy ?"

The McAuliffe camp fears turnout among supporters in an off-year election may be low and has brought in some of the party's heavy hitters in the final stretch, including First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Biden won Virginia by 10 points in 2020 and the last time Republicans won a statewide race there was 2009.

But the McAuliffe-Youngkin battle has been tightening, with a survey released this week by Monmouth University showing the Democrat's earlier lead evaporating.&nbsp;

A McAuliffe win would boost Washington Democrats' push for twin infrastructure and social welfare mega-bills that are the cornerstone of Biden's vision for remaking the economy.

But a loss could spook moderates already nervous over the high price tag, which they are trying to chisel down from a combined total of almost $5 trillion to around $3 trillion.

Harbinger&nbsp;

Party chiefs hope Obama, still the most popular Democrat on the national stage five years after leaving office, will galvanize Black voters, a key constituency in Virginia.&nbsp;

"I'm here today because I believe Virginia will make the right choice. I believe America, ultimately, will make the right choice," Obama told the crowd of a few hundred cheering supporters.&nbsp;

"I believe you right here in Virginia are going to show the rest of the country, and the world, that we're not going to indulge in our worst instincts. We're not going to go back to the past that did so much damage, we're going to move forward with people like Terry leading the way."

The first genuinely competitive election since Biden took office is expected to be a harbinger of the national political landscape ahead of next year's midterm elections.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-climate-poses-emerging-threat-to-financial-system-422957">US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system</a>

Wedged between the Washington suburbs in northern Virginia, a Democratic stronghold, and the state's conservative south and southwest, Richmond could go either way.

McAuliffe, 64, has tried to make the race a referendum on twice-impeached Trump.

Youngkin, 10 years his junior, has focused on the fight over schools, with Republicans railing against mask mandates and running ads showing McAuliffe saying he doesn't want parents involved in education.&nbsp;

&nbsp;'Resurgence of Trumpism'&nbsp;

In a delicate high-wire act, Youngkin has been trying to conjure the spirit of Trump while not specifically endorsing his false election fraud claims that are backed by the majority of Republicans. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The former president has not visited, although he called in to a pro-Youngkin "Take Back Virginia Rally" on October 13 featuring former White House advisor Steve Bannon and other prominent promoters of Trump's election fraud lies.

McAuliffe, who took the stage before Obama, pledged to work with "Reasonable Republicans" to improve the lives of Virginians.

"I'll work with you, but let me make one thing perfectly clear today. Glenn Youngkin is not a reasonable Republican. I call him Donald Trump in khakis," he told the crowd of a few hundred.

"Do we want a lapdog for Donald Trump to be our governor here in the Commonwealth? No we don't."

Former US president Barack Obama urged voters on Saturday to back the Democrat in a neck-and-neck state election touted as a test of the party's prospects in next year's midterm elections - casting the Republican as a threat to democracy.

Former US president Barack Obama urged voters on Saturday to back the Democrat in a neck-and-neck state election touted as a test of the party's prospects in next year's midterm elections - casting the Republican as a threat to democracy. Democrat Terry McAuliffe, who is vying for a second term as Virginia's governor, has seen his lead extinguished in recent polls and is in a dead heat with Republican Glenn Youngkin ahead of the November 2 vote. Also Read | Donald Trump, banned on Twitter and FB, to launch his own social network Obama told a cheering crowd of several hundred rapt supporters at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond that Youngkin would cut teaching jobs, restrict abortion access and back Donald Trump's fraudulent campaign to convince Americans that the last election was stolen from him by President Joe Biden. "As far as I can tell, the big message of Terry's opponent is that he's a regular guy because he wears a fleece. And he's accusing schools of brainwashing our kids," Obama said, "He's also said he wanted to audit the voting machines used in the last presidential election again. Really? Encouraging the lies and conspiracy theories that we've had to live through all this time? And yeah, we're supposed to believe he's going to stand up for our democracy ?" The McAuliffe camp fears turnout among supporters in an off-year election may be low and has brought in some of the party's heavy hitters in the final stretch, including First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Biden won Virginia by 10 points in 2020 and the last time Republicans won a statewide race there was 2009. But the McAuliffe-Youngkin battle has been tightening, with a survey released this week by Monmouth University showing the Democrat's earlier lead evaporating. A McAuliffe win would boost Washington Democrats' push for twin infrastructure and social welfare mega-bills that are the cornerstone of Biden's vision for remaking the economy. But a loss could spook moderates already nervous over the high price tag, which they are trying to chisel down from a combined total of almost $5 trillion to around $3 trillion. Harbinger Party chiefs hope Obama, still the most popular Democrat on the national stage five years after leaving office, will galvanize Black voters, a key constituency in Virginia. "I'm here today because I believe Virginia will make the right choice. I believe America, ultimately, will make the right choice," Obama told the crowd of a few hundred cheering supporters. "I believe you right here in Virginia are going to show the rest of the country, and the world, that we're not going to indulge in our worst instincts. We're not going to go back to the past that did so much damage, we're going to move forward with people like Terry leading the way." The first genuinely competitive election since Biden took office is expected to be a harbinger of the national political landscape ahead of next year's midterm elections. Also Read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system Wedged between the Washington suburbs in northern Virginia, a Democratic stronghold, and the state's conservative south and southwest, Richmond could go either way. McAuliffe, 64, has tried to make the race a referendum on twice-impeached Trump. Youngkin, 10 years his junior, has focused on the fight over schools, with Republicans railing against mask mandates and running ads showing McAuliffe saying he doesn't want parents involved in education. 'Resurgence of Trumpism' In a delicate high-wire act, Youngkin has been trying to conjure the spirit of Trump while not specifically endorsing his false election fraud claims that are backed by the majority of Republicans. The former president has not visited, although he called in to a pro-Youngkin "Take Back Virginia Rally" on October 13 featuring former White House advisor Steve Bannon and other prominent promoters of Trump's election fraud lies. McAuliffe, who took the stage before Obama, pledged to work with "Reasonable Republicans" to improve the lives of Virginians. "I'll work with you, but let me make one thing perfectly clear today. Glenn Youngkin is not a reasonable Republican. I call him Donald Trump in khakis," he told the crowd of a few hundred. "Do we want a lapdog for Donald Trump to be our governor here in the Commonwealth? No we don't."

Obama warns of Republican threat to democracy in US battleground Virginia

Senior US envoy to North Korea, Sung Kim, has called on the country to halt missile tests and return to nuclear negotiations.&nbsp;

After a meeting with South Korean officials to discuss Pyongyang's recent missile tests, Kim told the Associated Press, "We call on the DPRK to cease these provocations and other destabilising activities, and instead, engage in dialogue."

“We remain ready to meet with the DPRK without preconditions and we have made clear that the United States harbours no hostile intent towards the DPRK,” added Kim.

Kim further said the tests were “concerning and counterproductive” to efforts to achieve peace on the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;

This comes a few days after North Korea confirmed that it “successfully” test-fired a new submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), a day after South Korea reported the missile launch.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-confirms-test-of-new-submarine-launched-ballistic-missile-with-advance-guidance-technologies-422179">Also read |&nbsp;North Korea confirms test of new submarine-launched ballistic missile with ‘advance guidance technologies’</a>

State news outlet KCNA said the missile has advanced control guidance technologies, “which could make it harder to track”, adding that it was fired from the same vessel that the North used in its first SLBM test five years ago.

It said that the latest missile had new “controlling and homing” technology which allowed it to move laterally. It was also capable of “gliding and jumping movement”.

The latest launch comes as South Korea develops its own weapons, in what observers say has turned into an arms race on the Korean peninsula.

Senior US envoy to North Korea, Sung Kim, has called on the country to halt missile tests and return to nuclear negotiations. After a meeting with South Korean officials to discuss Pyongyang's recent missile tests, Kim told the Associated Press, "We call on the DPRK to cease these provocations and other destabilising activities, and instead, engage in dialogue.

Senior US envoy to North Korea, Sung Kim, has called on the country to halt missile tests and return to nuclear negotiations. After a meeting with South Korean officials to discuss Pyongyang's recent missile tests, Kim told the Associated Press, "We call on the DPRK to cease these provocations and other destabilising activities, and instead, engage in dialogue." “We remain ready to meet with the DPRK without preconditions and we have made clear that the United States harbours no hostile intent towards the DPRK,” added Kim. Kim further said the tests were “concerning and counterproductive” to efforts to achieve peace on the Korean Peninsula. This comes a few days after North Korea confirmed that it “successfully” test-fired a new submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), a day after South Korea reported the missile launch. Also read | North Korea confirms test of new submarine-launched ballistic missile with ‘advance guidance technologies’ State news outlet KCNA said the missile has advanced control guidance technologies, “which could make it harder to track”, adding that it was fired from the same vessel that the North used in its first SLBM test five years ago. It said that the latest missile had new “controlling and homing” technology which allowed it to move laterally. It was also capable of “gliding and jumping movement”. The latest launch comes as South Korea develops its own weapons, in what observers say has turned into an arms race on the Korean peninsula.

US urges North Korea to halt missile tests and resume talks

Speaking to a local news station in November, Donald Kirk Hartle described being “surprised” by the possibility that someone had stolen his dead wife’s mail-in ballot and used it to vote in the 2020 election. “That is pretty sickening to me, to be honest with you,” he told KLAS-TV in Las Vegas.

But this week, the Nevada attorney general filed two charges of voter fraud against Hartle, 55, claiming that he was the one who forged his wife’s signature to vote with her ballot.

“Voter fraud is rare, but when it happens, it undercuts trust in our election system and will not be tolerated by my office,” Aaron D. Ford, the attorney general, said in a statement Thursday. “I want to stress that our office will pursue any credible allegations of voter fraud and will work to bring any offenders to justice.”

The announcement from Ford’s office comes months after waves of Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, falsely asserted that the 2020 election had been tainted by widespread voter fraud, including in Nevada, a state that Trump lost.

Hartle, a registered Republican, was charged with voting using the name of another person and voting more than once in the same election, the attorney general’s office said in the statement. Each charge carries a prison sentence of up to four years and a fine of up to $5,000, prosecutors said.

The criminal complaint did not explain how prosecutors came to the conclusion that Hartle had committed voter fraud. Questions sent to the office of Ford, a Democrat elected to the position in 2018, were not immediately responded to Saturday.

David Chesnoff, a lawyer for Hartle, said in a statement that his client “looks forward to responding to the allegations in court.” Hartle is scheduled to appear Nov. 18 in the Las Vegas Township Justice Court.

The Nevada Republican Party had cited Hartle’s story as evidence of voting irregularities on Twitter last year, saying that Hartle “was surprised to find that his late wife Rosemarie, a Republican, cast a ballot in this year's election despite having passed away” in 2017.

Since the announcement of the charges against Hartle, the party has not corrected the record, said Callum Ingram, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Nevada, Reno.

“The state Republican Party has been pretty quiet certainly on this case since the narrative got flipped on its head,” Ingram said in an interview on Saturday.

Hartle is the chief financial officer and treasurer for Ahern Rentals, according to his LinkedIn profile. The business rents out construction equipment and is a part of the Ahern Family of Companies. One of its businesses, Xtreme Manufacturing, was fined $3,000 in 2020 for hosting a Trump rally that did not comply with the state’s COVID regulations at the time, said Kathleen Richards, a spokesperson for the city of Henderson, Nevada.

Nevada was among several states dealing with dubious claims of voter fraud after the presidential election last November.

Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske said in a document posted in December titled “Facts vs. Myths” that there was no evidence of large-scale voter fraud in the state.

Cegavske’s office led the investigation of Hartle’s case.

“Our office takes voter fraud very seriously,” Cegavske said in the statement released by Ford’s office. “Our securities division worked hard to bring this case to a close.”

Conservative news outlets spread Hartle’s story. After the state Republican Party highlighted the case on Twitter, conservative commentator Dinesh D’Souza discussed the case on his show. Then Fox News host Tucker Carlson promoted Hartle’s account, saying, “We don’t know who did this. We wish we did, because it’s fraud.”

For many voters in the state, Ingram said, proving that widespread voter fraud did not occur “is something that no amount of counterevidence, no amount of effort to prove folks wrong with facts or reason, is ever going to touch because it’s an unquestionable article of faith.”

Speaking to a local news station in November, Donald Kirk Hartle described being “surprised” by the possibility that someone had stolen his dead wife’s mail-in ballot and used it to vote in the 2020 election.

Speaking to a local news station in November, Donald Kirk Hartle described being “surprised” by the possibility that someone had stolen his dead wife’s mail-in ballot and used it to vote in the 2020 election. “That is pretty sickening to me, to be honest with you,” he told KLAS-TV in Las Vegas. But this week, the Nevada attorney general filed two charges of voter fraud against Hartle, 55, claiming that he was the one who forged his wife’s signature to vote with her ballot. “Voter fraud is rare, but when it happens, it undercuts trust in our election system and will not be tolerated by my office,” Aaron D. Ford, the attorney general, said in a statement Thursday. “I want to stress that our office will pursue any credible allegations of voter fraud and will work to bring any offenders to justice.” The announcement from Ford’s office comes months after waves of Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, falsely asserted that the 2020 election had been tainted by widespread voter fraud, including in Nevada, a state that Trump lost. Hartle, a registered Republican, was charged with voting using the name of another person and voting more than once in the same election, the attorney general’s office said in the statement. Each charge carries a prison sentence of up to four years and a fine of up to $5,000, prosecutors said. The criminal complaint did not explain how prosecutors came to the conclusion that Hartle had committed voter fraud. Questions sent to the office of Ford, a Democrat elected to the position in 2018, were not immediately responded to Saturday. David Chesnoff, a lawyer for Hartle, said in a statement that his client “looks forward to responding to the allegations in court.” Hartle is scheduled to appear Nov. 18 in the Las Vegas Township Justice Court. The Nevada Republican Party had cited Hartle’s story as evidence of voting irregularities on Twitter last year, saying that Hartle “was surprised to find that his late wife Rosemarie, a Republican, cast a ballot in this year's election despite having passed away” in 2017. Since the announcement of the charges against Hartle, the party has not corrected the record, said Callum Ingram, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Nevada, Reno. “The state Republican Party has been pretty quiet certainly on this case since the narrative got flipped on its head,” Ingram said in an interview on Saturday. Hartle is the chief financial officer and treasurer for Ahern Rentals, according to his LinkedIn profile. The business rents out construction equipment and is a part of the Ahern Family of Companies. One of its businesses, Xtreme Manufacturing, was fined $3,000 in 2020 for hosting a Trump rally that did not comply with the state’s COVID regulations at the time, said Kathleen Richards, a spokesperson for the city of Henderson, Nevada. Nevada was among several states dealing with dubious claims of voter fraud after the presidential election last November. Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske said in a document posted in December titled “Facts vs. Myths” that there was no evidence of large-scale voter fraud in the state. Cegavske’s office led the investigation of Hartle’s case. “Our office takes voter fraud very seriously,” Cegavske said in the statement released by Ford’s office. “Our securities division worked hard to bring this case to a close.” Conservative news outlets spread Hartle’s story. After the state Republican Party highlighted the case on Twitter, conservative commentator Dinesh D’Souza discussed the case on his show. Then Fox News host Tucker Carlson promoted Hartle’s account, saying, “We don’t know who did this. We wish we did, because it’s fraud.” For many voters in the state, Ingram said, proving that widespread voter fraud did not occur “is something that no amount of counterevidence, no amount of effort to prove folks wrong with facts or reason, is ever going to touch because it’s an unquestionable article of faith.”

Nevada man is charged with voting using his dead wife’s ballot

Taiwanese and US&nbsp;officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body.

Taiwan, using its formal name the Republic of China, held the Chinese seat at the United Nations until October&nbsp;25, 1971, when it was voted out as representative of the country in favour of the People's Republic of China, which had won a civil war in 1949 and forced the republican government to flee to the island.

China says that Taiwan is one of its provinces, and so it has the sole right to represent Taiwan internationally. The democratically-elected government in Taipei says only it has that right.

In a statement late on Saturday, the US&nbsp;State Department said US&nbsp;and Taiwanese officials had met virtually on Friday for a "discussion focused on supporting Taiwan's ability to participate meaningfully at the UN".

"US&nbsp;participants reiterated the US&nbsp;commitment to Taiwan's meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwan's ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-contain-beijing-anger-after-biden-vows-taiwan-defense-423109">US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense</a>

Participants included State Department Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Organizations Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Rick Waters, and Taiwan's deputy de facto ambassador in Washington, Wang Liang-yu, the State Department said.

Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked the United States for its "firm support".

Xi is due to speak on the 50th anniversary on Monday of what China calls the restoration of its lawful seat at the United Nations

Taiwan has been particularly angered by its inability to fully access the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, though both China and the WHO say the island has been given the help it has needed.

China has ramped up political and military pressure to force Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend itself if China attacks.

Taiwanese and US officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body.

Taiwanese and US officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body. Taiwan, using its formal name the Republic of China, held the Chinese seat at the United Nations until October 25, 1971, when it was voted out as representative of the country in favour of the People's Republic of China, which had won a civil war in 1949 and forced the republican government to flee to the island. China says that Taiwan is one of its provinces, and so it has the sole right to represent Taiwan internationally. The democratically-elected government in Taipei says only it has that right. In a statement late on Saturday, the US State Department said US and Taiwanese officials had met virtually on Friday for a "discussion focused on supporting Taiwan's ability to participate meaningfully at the UN". "US participants reiterated the US commitment to Taiwan's meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwan's ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues," it added. Also Read | US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense Participants included State Department Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Organizations Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Rick Waters, and Taiwan's deputy de facto ambassador in Washington, Wang Liang-yu, the State Department said. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked the United States for its "firm support". Xi is due to speak on the 50th anniversary on Monday of what China calls the restoration of its lawful seat at the United Nations Taiwan has been particularly angered by its inability to fully access the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, though both China and the WHO say the island has been given the help it has needed. China has ramped up political and military pressure to force Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend itself if China attacks.

Taiwan, US discuss UN participation ahead of key anniversary in move likely to irk China

Pakistan on Saturday rejected reports about an agreement with the United States on the use of its airspace for intelligence operations in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

The Foreign Office (FO) issued a statement in response to media queries regarding the news report alluding to formalisation of an agreement between the two countries to conduct military and intelligence operations against Afghanistan. The FO statement read: No such understanding was in place.

However, it added: "Pakistan and the US have long-standing cooperation on regional security and counter-terrorism and the two sides remain engaged in regular consultations."

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fails-in-convincing-to-resume-6-billion-extended-loan-facility-423278">&nbsp;Pakistan fails in convincing to resume $6 billion extended loan facility</a>

CNN News had reported quoting three sources familiar with the details of a classified briefing with members of the US Congress that took place on Friday that the US was nearing an agreement with Pakistan for use of its airspace to conduct operations in Afghanistan.

The Pakistan Opposition parties had also demanded the government to give an explanation on the reports that Pakistan had allowed the US military to use its airspace.

Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview had categorically said that Pakistan would "absolutely not" allow any bases and use of its territory for any sort of action inside Afghanistan.

"Absolutely not. There is no way we are going to allow any bases, any sort of action from Pakistani territory into Afghanistan. Absolutely not," Khan had told 'Axios on HBO' in an interview in June.

The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, two weeks before the US&nbsp;complete troop withdrawal on August 31 after a costly two-decade war.

Pakistan on Saturday rejected reports about an agreement with the United States on the use of its airspace for intelligence operations in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

Pakistan on Saturday rejected reports about an agreement with the United States on the use of its airspace for intelligence operations in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The Foreign Office (FO) issued a statement in response to media queries regarding the news report alluding to formalisation of an agreement between the two countries to conduct military and intelligence operations against Afghanistan. The FO statement read: No such understanding was in place. However, it added: "Pakistan and the US have long-standing cooperation on regional security and counter-terrorism and the two sides remain engaged in regular consultations." Also Read | Pakistan fails in convincing to resume $6 billion extended loan facility CNN News had reported quoting three sources familiar with the details of a classified briefing with members of the US Congress that took place on Friday that the US was nearing an agreement with Pakistan for use of its airspace to conduct operations in Afghanistan. The Pakistan Opposition parties had also demanded the government to give an explanation on the reports that Pakistan had allowed the US military to use its airspace. Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview had categorically said that Pakistan would "absolutely not" allow any bases and use of its territory for any sort of action inside Afghanistan. "Absolutely not. There is no way we are going to allow any bases, any sort of action from Pakistani territory into Afghanistan. Absolutely not," Khan had told 'Axios on HBO' in an interview in June. The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, two weeks before the US complete troop withdrawal on August 31 after a costly two-decade war.

Pakistan rejects reports of agreement with US to conduct air operations in Afghanistan

Joe Biden’s pitch during the 2020 campaign to unseat President Donald Trump was simple: Trade in a stubborn, immovable leader for one with a proven record of taking half a loaf when a full one is out of reach.

That approach appears to have brought Biden to the precipice of victory on a $2 trillion deal that could begin to define his legacy as a successful Oval Office legislative architect, one who is reshaping government spending and doing so by the narrowest of margins in a country with deep partisan and ideological chasms.

But the bill is certain to be far smaller than what he originally proposed, and far less ambitious than he and many of his allies had hoped. It won’t make him the one who finally secured free community college for everyone. Seniors won’t get free dental, hearing and vision coverage from Medicare. And there won’t be a new system of penalties for the worst polluters.

“Look — hey, look, it’s all about compromise,” Biden said at a CNN town hall meeting on Thursday, shrugging off the doubters as he sought to close the deal with lawmakers and the public.

But accepting less and calling it a win has its limits — and consequences.

By spending the last several months pushing for an even larger and more ambitious agenda, knowing that he would most likely have to pare it back, Biden has let down some supporters who believed he could deliver on his soaring rhetoric about the need for better higher education, expanded Medicare services and bold advances in the fight against climate change.

“In order to make real progress, you have to inspire people about the importance of the work,” said Doug Elmendorf, the dean of the Harvard Kennedy School and the former director of the Congressional Budget Office. “And then any compromise is a disappointment.”

Negotiations are continuing on the package’s final framework. But after pushing for months for a $3.5 trillion bill, the president is likely now to end up with a measure that includes less than $2 trillion in spending on various social programs and anti-climate-change initiatives.

Once the spending bills are behind him, Biden still faces challenges that are not so easily solved by compromise. On Thursday, he appeared to acknowledge that reality by hinting that he was open to altering the Senate’s longstanding filibuster rules if that is what it takes to break through Republican opposition to protecting voting rights and passing other parts of the Democratic agenda.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indecency-turkeys-erdogan-orders-expulsion-of-10-ambassadors-423377">Also read |&nbsp;'Indecency': Turkey's Erdogan orders expulsion of 10 ambassadors</a>

“We’re going to have to move to the point where we fundamentally alter the filibuster,” he told CNN anchor Anderson Cooper.

That is a dramatic concession for a politician like Biden, who embraced the often arcane rules of the Senate during the three decades he served there. Like other institutionalists in the chamber, Biden has resisted demands from liberal activists to shatter those rules, fearful of the consequences the next time Republicans are in charge.

But the Washington that Biden often reminisces about the one in which Democrats and Republicans work together toward common goals is largely a distant memory. If he wants to make progress on voting rights, climate change, prison reform, an immigration overhaul and more, he most likely won’t be able to lean on the same instincts that have animated most of his political life and defined the brand that helped him win the White House.

The political differences are stark: Republicans argue the president’s spending program would burden future generations with more debt and serve as a drag on the economy. They insist the voting rights legislation is intended to benefit Democrats, and they oppose many of the president’s climate policies because they say they will be bad for jobs and business.

John Podesta, who served as former President Bill Clinton’s chief of staff, said Biden “has done a pretty good job of pushing as far as he could in the style that he was a champion of.” But he said that beyond the spending bills, “it’s hard to see how he gets that same spirit of collaboration, good will, honorable compromise.” The issue of voting rights may be the clearest example in the months to come.

Just this week, Republicans used the filibuster to block an already watered-down Democratic voting rights bill for the third time since Biden took office. The takeaway? If Democrats want federal legislation to stop what they view as an assault on voting in Republican-controlled states, they will need to play hardball.

That very likely means persuading all 50 Democrats and independents in the chamber to vote for changing the filibuster rule — if he can.

“President Biden and Senate Democrats need to fulfill campaign promises and defend our democracy — there’s too much at stake,” leaders of Fix Our Senate, a group that favors eliminating the filibuster, said in a statement on Friday. “After three Republican filibusters of common sense voter protection laws, it’s time to end the filibuster and protect the right to vote for all Americans.”

Advocates for immigrants’ rights are poised to make a similar argument on behalf of fixing what most agree is a broken system. The idea of a bipartisan immigration overhaul, which Biden proposed on his first day in office, has stalled amid opposition from Republican lawmakers.

An attempt to use the spending bill to provide a path to citizenship for millions of people in the country illegally was blocked by special Senate rules on the budget. If Biden wants to make good on his promised immigration overhaul, it would require a separate bill, and he may have no choice but to change the filibuster rules for that issue as well.

But perhaps the biggest promise Biden made during the campaign was to be the president who would finally confront the environmental dangers facing the planet. On Thursday, he put it in the bluntest possible terms: “The existential threat to humanity is climate change.”

Biden and his party are likely to face that threat alone in the coming months and years. Most Republicans have shown little appetite for aggressive action to counter the environmental damage from cars, manufacturing and other economic activities.

And even within his own party, the president faces divisions that make it difficult to convince the rest of the world that the United States is serious about reducing the emissions that are causing global warming.

For Biden, then, the question will be: Is he willing to treat the debate of core issues like the climate, voting rights and immigration as a “break the glass” moment in which he and his Democratic allies have no choice but to change the rules, even if it means Republicans will take advantage of the chance to advance their own agenda once they return to power?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-climate-deal-will-be-harder-than-paris-accord-says-alok-sharma-423292">Also read |&nbsp;Cop26 climate deal will be harder than Paris accord, says Alok Sharma</a>

Of course, the president can’t change the filibuster by himself. Doing so would take the votes of all 50 Democratic and independent senators, along with a tiebreaking vote from Vice President Kamala Harris. And already, some of the same Democratic senators who forced him to accept less spending have said they oppose altering the filibuster.

But the president is the leader of his party, and his voice matters. If he decides it’s time to “fundamentally alter the filibuster,” as he said on Thursday, members of his party may listen.

One argument at his disposal: Changing the rules to allow more of the Democratic agenda to pass could be vital for the party’s success at the polls.

Strategists say enthusiasm among core Democratic voters is critical to defeating the Republican Party in the midterm elections of 2022 (and perhaps Trump, its leader, two years later). If crucial parts of the president’s coalition remain unhappy because they are disappointed in the compromise bill, that could threaten Democratic hopes to remain in power in Congress and the White House.

“The political costs of this will be large,” Elmendorf said.

Podesta, who advised Hillary Clinton during her runs for the presidency, agreed. He said it was a “big problem” if Democrats couldn’t deliver on the fundamental promises. Biden’s approval ratings have already fallen into the low-to-mid-40s.

“Particularly younger voters,” he said. “You are seeing it among independents, African American and Latino voters. They are just feeling like these guys are not delivering.”

Biden might turn the enthusiasm gap around by making progress on the rest of his agenda, including voting rights, immigration and climate change.

He vowed on Thursday that he would continue to press for parts of his agenda that were left on the cutting room floor during the debate over the spending bills. He called increasing Pell Grants for college students “a start” but he pledged to keep trying for free community college&nbsp;in part to satisfy the demands of his wife, Jill Biden, who is a longtime college professor.

“I’m going to get it done,” he vowed, adding with a smile at his wife in the front row, “and if I don’t, I’ll be sleeping alone for a long time.”

Joe Biden’s pitch during the 2020 campaign to unseat President Donald Trump was simple: Trade in a stubborn, immovable leader for one with a proven record of taking half a loaf when a full one is out of reach.

Joe Biden’s pitch during the 2020 campaign to unseat President Donald Trump was simple: Trade in a stubborn, immovable leader for one with a proven record of taking half a loaf when a full one is out of reach. That approach appears to have brought Biden to the precipice of victory on a $2 trillion deal that could begin to define his legacy as a successful Oval Office legislative architect, one who is reshaping government spending and doing so by the narrowest of margins in a country with deep partisan and ideological chasms. But the bill is certain to be far smaller than what he originally proposed, and far less ambitious than he and many of his allies had hoped. It won’t make him the one who finally secured free community college for everyone. Seniors won’t get free dental, hearing and vision coverage from Medicare. And there won’t be a new system of penalties for the worst polluters. “Look — hey, look, it’s all about compromise,” Biden said at a CNN town hall meeting on Thursday, shrugging off the doubters as he sought to close the deal with lawmakers and the public. But accepting less and calling it a win has its limits — and consequences. By spending the last several months pushing for an even larger and more ambitious agenda, knowing that he would most likely have to pare it back, Biden has let down some supporters who believed he could deliver on his soaring rhetoric about the need for better higher education, expanded Medicare services and bold advances in the fight against climate change. “In order to make real progress, you have to inspire people about the importance of the work,” said Doug Elmendorf, the dean of the Harvard Kennedy School and the former director of the Congressional Budget Office. “And then any compromise is a disappointment.” Negotiations are continuing on the package’s final framework. But after pushing for months for a $3.5 trillion bill, the president is likely now to end up with a measure that includes less than $2 trillion in spending on various social programs and anti-climate-change initiatives. Once the spending bills are behind him, Biden still faces challenges that are not so easily solved by compromise. On Thursday, he appeared to acknowledge that reality by hinting that he was open to altering the Senate’s longstanding filibuster rules if that is what it takes to break through Republican opposition to protecting voting rights and passing other parts of the Democratic agenda. Also read | 'Indecency': Turkey's Erdogan orders expulsion of 10 ambassadors “We’re going to have to move to the point where we fundamentally alter the filibuster,” he told CNN anchor Anderson Cooper. That is a dramatic concession for a politician like Biden, who embraced the often arcane rules of the Senate during the three decades he served there. Like other institutionalists in the chamber, Biden has resisted demands from liberal activists to shatter those rules, fearful of the consequences the next time Republicans are in charge. But the Washington that Biden often reminisces about the one in which Democrats and Republicans work together toward common goals is largely a distant memory. If he wants to make progress on voting rights, climate change, prison reform, an immigration overhaul and more, he most likely won’t be able to lean on the same instincts that have animated most of his political life and defined the brand that helped him win the White House. The political differences are stark: Republicans argue the president’s spending program would burden future generations with more debt and serve as a drag on the economy. They insist the voting rights legislation is intended to benefit Democrats, and they oppose many of the president’s climate policies because they say they will be bad for jobs and business. John Podesta, who served as former President Bill Clinton’s chief of staff, said Biden “has done a pretty good job of pushing as far as he could in the style that he was a champion of.” But he said that beyond the spending bills, “it’s hard to see how he gets that same spirit of collaboration, good will, honorable compromise.” The issue of voting rights may be the clearest example in the months to come. Just this week, Republicans used the filibuster to block an already watered-down Democratic voting rights bill for the third time since Biden took office. The takeaway? If Democrats want federal legislation to stop what they view as an assault on voting in Republican-controlled states, they will need to play hardball. That very likely means persuading all 50 Democrats and independents in the chamber to vote for changing the filibuster rule — if he can. “President Biden and Senate Democrats need to fulfill campaign promises and defend our democracy — there’s too much at stake,” leaders of Fix Our Senate, a group that favors eliminating the filibuster, said in a statement on Friday. “After three Republican filibusters of common sense voter protection laws, it’s time to end the filibuster and protect the right to vote for all Americans.” Advocates for immigrants’ rights are poised to make a similar argument on behalf of fixing what most agree is a broken system. The idea of a bipartisan immigration overhaul, which Biden proposed on his first day in office, has stalled amid opposition from Republican lawmakers. An attempt to use the spending bill to provide a path to citizenship for millions of people in the country illegally was blocked by special Senate rules on the budget. If Biden wants to make good on his promised immigration overhaul, it would require a separate bill, and he may have no choice but to change the filibuster rules for that issue as well. But perhaps the biggest promise Biden made during the campaign was to be the president who would finally confront the environmental dangers facing the planet. On Thursday, he put it in the bluntest possible terms: “The existential threat to humanity is climate change.” Biden and his party are likely to face that threat alone in the coming months and years. Most Republicans have shown little appetite for aggressive action to counter the environmental damage from cars, manufacturing and other economic activities. And even within his own party, the president faces divisions that make it difficult to convince the rest of the world that the United States is serious about reducing the emissions that are causing global warming. For Biden, then, the question will be: Is he willing to treat the debate of core issues like the climate, voting rights and immigration as a “break the glass” moment in which he and his Democratic allies have no choice but to change the rules, even if it means Republicans will take advantage of the chance to advance their own agenda once they return to power? Also read | Cop26 climate deal will be harder than Paris accord, says Alok Sharma Of course, the president can’t change the filibuster by himself. Doing so would take the votes of all 50 Democratic and independent senators, along with a tiebreaking vote from Vice President Kamala Harris. And already, some of the same Democratic senators who forced him to accept less spending have said they oppose altering the filibuster. But the president is the leader of his party, and his voice matters. If he decides it’s time to “fundamentally alter the filibuster,” as he said on Thursday, members of his party may listen. One argument at his disposal: Changing the rules to allow more of the Democratic agenda to pass could be vital for the party’s success at the polls. Strategists say enthusiasm among core Democratic voters is critical to defeating the Republican Party in the midterm elections of 2022 (and perhaps Trump, its leader, two years later). If crucial parts of the president’s coalition remain unhappy because they are disappointed in the compromise bill, that could threaten Democratic hopes to remain in power in Congress and the White House. “The political costs of this will be large,” Elmendorf said. Podesta, who advised Hillary Clinton during her runs for the presidency, agreed. He said it was a “big problem” if Democrats couldn’t deliver on the fundamental promises. Biden’s approval ratings have already fallen into the low-to-mid-40s. “Particularly younger voters,” he said. “You are seeing it among independents, African American and Latino voters. They are just feeling like these guys are not delivering.” Biden might turn the enthusiasm gap around by making progress on the rest of his agenda, including voting rights, immigration and climate change. He vowed on Thursday that he would continue to press for parts of his agenda that were left on the cutting room floor during the debate over the spending bills. He called increasing Pell Grants for college students “a start” but he pledged to keep trying for free community college in part to satisfy the demands of his wife, Jill Biden, who is a longtime college professor. “I’m going to get it done,” he vowed, adding with a smile at his wife in the front row, “and if I don’t, I’ll be sleeping alone for a long time.”

Biden the dealmaker finds that compromise can have consequences

A senior al-Qaeda leader was killed in a US drone strike in Syria, the Pentagon said Friday.

The strike comes two days after a base in southern Syria, used by the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group, was assaulted.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-sours-on-syrians-but-not-in-this-sleepy-town-jolted-awake-422524">Turkey sours on Syrians, but not in this sleepy town, jolted awake</a>

"A US airstrike today in northwest Syria killed senior al-Qaeda leader Abdul Hamid al-Matar," said Central Command spokesman Army Major John Rigsbee in a statement.

There were no known casualties from the strike, he said, adding it was conducted using an MQ-9 aircraft.

"The removal of this al-Qaeda senior leader will disrupt the terrorist organization's ability to further plot and carry out global attacks," he said.

At the end of September the Pentagon killed Salim Abu-Ahmad, another senior Al-Qaeda commander in Syria, in an airstrike near Idlib in the country's northwest.

He had been responsible for "planning, funding, and approving trans-regional Al-Qaeda attacks," according to Centcom.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/car-bomb-kills-six-in-syrias-afrin-monitor-419945">Car bomb kills six in Syria's Afrin: Monitor</a>

"Al-Qaeda continues to present a threat to America and our allies. Al-Qaeda uses Syria as a safe haven to rebuild, coordinate with external affiliates, and plan external operations," Rigsbee said.

The ongoing war in Syria has created a complex battlefield involving foreign armies, militias and jihadists.&nbsp;

The war has killed around half a million people since starting in 2011 with a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests.

A senior al-Qaeda leader was killed in a US drone strike in Syria, the Pentagon said Friday. The strike comes two days after a base in southern Syria, used by the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group, was assaulted.

A senior al-Qaeda leader was killed in a US drone strike in Syria, the Pentagon said Friday. The strike comes two days after a base in southern Syria, used by the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group, was assaulted. Also Read | Turkey sours on Syrians, but not in this sleepy town, jolted awake "A US airstrike today in northwest Syria killed senior al-Qaeda leader Abdul Hamid al-Matar," said Central Command spokesman Army Major John Rigsbee in a statement. There were no known casualties from the strike, he said, adding it was conducted using an MQ-9 aircraft. "The removal of this al-Qaeda senior leader will disrupt the terrorist organization's ability to further plot and carry out global attacks," he said. At the end of September the Pentagon killed Salim Abu-Ahmad, another senior Al-Qaeda commander in Syria, in an airstrike near Idlib in the country's northwest. He had been responsible for "planning, funding, and approving trans-regional Al-Qaeda attacks," according to Centcom. Also Read | Car bomb kills six in Syria's Afrin: Monitor "Al-Qaeda continues to present a threat to America and our allies. Al-Qaeda uses Syria as a safe haven to rebuild, coordinate with external affiliates, and plan external operations," Rigsbee said. The ongoing war in Syria has created a complex battlefield involving foreign armies, militias and jihadists. The war has killed around half a million people since starting in 2011 with a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests.

Senior al-Qaeda leader killed in US drone strike in Syria: Pentagon

According to data released by the Department of Homeland Security, the US government recorded more than 1.7 million interdictions of migrants along the southern border during the past 12 months. This is the highest figure of any fiscal year in history.

The numbers surged when there was a massive increase in migration to the US-Mexico border that peaked during the hot summer months.&nbsp;

Roughly 61 per cent of the migrants encountered during the past 12 months were immediately expelled to Mexico or their homeland. This was done under a pandemic-era emergency policy known as Title 42.

Various Rights groups have said that the measure is not based on science and it denies migrants the right to seek protection. Title 42 involves quick expulsions and not deportations. This means that the US officials do not retain records of those sent back.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fda-highlights-risk-of-myocarditis-in-review-of-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine-for-kids-5-11-423340">Also read |&nbsp;FDA highlights risk of myocarditis in review of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for kids 5-11</a>

Many of the arrests this fiscal year are believed to be repeat crossings.

Customs and Border Protection, in a statement, said, "The large number of expulsions during the pandemic has contributed to a larger-than-usual number of migrants making multiple border crossing attempts, which means that total encounters somewhat overstate the number of unique individuals arriving at the border."

A total of 671,000 migrants and asylum-seekers were processed under immigration laws and placed in deportation proceedings during the fiscal year 2021. This can be halted if judges find they are fleeing persecution or torture.

Arrests of adults travelling without children formed the largest migrant demographic group. They made up more than 1.1 million, or 64 per cent, of all interdictions by border agents in the fiscal year 2021. Nearly 600,000 of those adults were from Mexico.

Nearly 480,000 migrant parents and children entered US custody as families. This is the second-largest tally of any fiscal year.&nbsp;

Approximately 57 per cent of families hailed from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, which are collectively known as Central America's Northern Triangle.

According to data released by the Department of Homeland Security, the US government recorded more than 1.7 million interdictions of migrants along the southern border during the past 12 months.

According to data released by the Department of Homeland Security, the US government recorded more than 1.7 million interdictions of migrants along the southern border during the past 12 months. This is the highest figure of any fiscal year in history. The numbers surged when there was a massive increase in migration to the US-Mexico border that peaked during the hot summer months. Roughly 61 per cent of the migrants encountered during the past 12 months were immediately expelled to Mexico or their homeland. This was done under a pandemic-era emergency policy known as Title 42. Various Rights groups have said that the measure is not based on science and it denies migrants the right to seek protection. Title 42 involves quick expulsions and not deportations. This means that the US officials do not retain records of those sent back. Also read | FDA highlights risk of myocarditis in review of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for kids 5-11 Many of the arrests this fiscal year are believed to be repeat crossings. Customs and Border Protection, in a statement, said, "The large number of expulsions during the pandemic has contributed to a larger-than-usual number of migrants making multiple border crossing attempts, which means that total encounters somewhat overstate the number of unique individuals arriving at the border." A total of 671,000 migrants and asylum-seekers were processed under immigration laws and placed in deportation proceedings during the fiscal year 2021. This can be halted if judges find they are fleeing persecution or torture. Arrests of adults travelling without children formed the largest migrant demographic group. They made up more than 1.1 million, or 64 per cent, of all interdictions by border agents in the fiscal year 2021. Nearly 600,000 of those adults were from Mexico. Nearly 480,000 migrant parents and children entered US custody as families. This is the second-largest tally of any fiscal year. Approximately 57 per cent of families hailed from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, which are collectively known as Central America's Northern Triangle.

US-Mexico border: Arrests reach record highs, reveals report

Facebook held back from doing all it could to stop users from being radicalized and US election misinformation from flooding the social network, according to media reports Friday.

An array of US news outlets cited documents from former Facebook worker Frances Haugen, adding to a series of critical revelations already published based on information she provided.

Articles in the New York Times, Washington Post and elsewhere on Friday focused on how Facebook apparently intensified political division.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-pay-french-publishers-for-news-content-422671">Facebook to pay French publishers for news content</a>

Examples included an internal finding that 10 percent of political content viewed by US users in the days after the election perpetuated the falsehood that the vote had been rigged.

What has come to be known as the "Big Lie" has been repeated relentlessly by former President Donald Trump and enraged his supporters, who stormed the US Capital in a deadly attack on January 6.

Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms banned Trump from their platforms for encouraging the violent effort to thwart the democratic process.

Revelations published Friday indicated that Facebook could have anticipated such trouble.

'Carol's journey'&nbsp;

The information was reportedly found in the thousands of internal documents Haugen provided to regulators at the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Haugen told US lawmakers early this month that the social media giant fuels division, harms children and urgently needs to be regulated, drawing pledges Congress would take up long-delayed action.

The testimony by Haugen has fueled one of Facebook's most serious crises yet, and prompted a denial from CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who said in a post on his account that her claim the company prioritizes profit over safety was "just not true."

A common theme in revelations is that Facebook knew about problems hurting users and society but chose, in large part, to ignore them.

Articles Friday referred to a report compiled by Facebook's own internal researchers titled "Carol's Journey to QAnon."

Facebook's security team in 2019 reportedly created a fake account for a "conservative mother from North Carolina" given the profile name Carol Smith.

The social network software quickly offered Smith a "barrage of extreme, conspiratorial and graphic content" including from the QAnon movement known for unfounded conspiracy theories, according to the researchers.

Defense&nbsp;

Faced with the mounting criticism, Facebook on Friday detailed anew steps it has taken to protect the election and keep the social network safe.

"Our comprehensive strategy to protect the US 2020 elections began years before the election cycle even began and was designed to last through the inauguration," Facebook vice president of integrity Guy Rosen said in a blog post.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-banned-on-twitter-and-fb-to-launch-his-own-social-network-422513">Donald Trump, banned on Twitter and FB, to launch his own social network</a>

"Responsibility for the insurrection itself falls squarely on the insurrectionists who broke the law and those who incited them."

Facebook's tenacious efforts to fend off critics is not likely to appease elected officials openly calling for action against the tech giant.

More revelations from leaked documents appear in store, and a former member of Facebook's integrity team emerged Friday as another whistleblower.

The former employee reportedly told US regulators that Facebook dismissed controversy over Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election as a "flash in the pan" and that managers undermined efforts to fight disinformation for fear of angering Trump or his fans.

Facebook held back from doing all it could to stop users from being radicalized and US election misinformation from flooding the social network, according to media reports Friday.

Facebook held back from doing all it could to stop users from being radicalized and US election misinformation from flooding the social network, according to media reports Friday. An array of US news outlets cited documents from former Facebook worker Frances Haugen, adding to a series of critical revelations already published based on information she provided. Articles in the New York Times, Washington Post and elsewhere on Friday focused on how Facebook apparently intensified political division. Also Read | Facebook to pay French publishers for news content Examples included an internal finding that 10 percent of political content viewed by US users in the days after the election perpetuated the falsehood that the vote had been rigged. What has come to be known as the "Big Lie" has been repeated relentlessly by former President Donald Trump and enraged his supporters, who stormed the US Capital in a deadly attack on January 6. Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms banned Trump from their platforms for encouraging the violent effort to thwart the democratic process. Revelations published Friday indicated that Facebook could have anticipated such trouble. 'Carol's journey' The information was reportedly found in the thousands of internal documents Haugen provided to regulators at the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Haugen told US lawmakers early this month that the social media giant fuels division, harms children and urgently needs to be regulated, drawing pledges Congress would take up long-delayed action. The testimony by Haugen has fueled one of Facebook's most serious crises yet, and prompted a denial from CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who said in a post on his account that her claim the company prioritizes profit over safety was "just not true." A common theme in revelations is that Facebook knew about problems hurting users and society but chose, in large part, to ignore them. Articles Friday referred to a report compiled by Facebook's own internal researchers titled "Carol's Journey to QAnon." Facebook's security team in 2019 reportedly created a fake account for a "conservative mother from North Carolina" given the profile name Carol Smith. The social network software quickly offered Smith a "barrage of extreme, conspiratorial and graphic content" including from the QAnon movement known for unfounded conspiracy theories, according to the researchers. Defense Faced with the mounting criticism, Facebook on Friday detailed anew steps it has taken to protect the election and keep the social network safe. "Our comprehensive strategy to protect the US 2020 elections began years before the election cycle even began and was designed to last through the inauguration," Facebook vice president of integrity Guy Rosen said in a blog post. Also Read | Donald Trump, banned on Twitter and FB, to launch his own social network "Responsibility for the insurrection itself falls squarely on the insurrectionists who broke the law and those who incited them." Facebook's tenacious efforts to fend off critics is not likely to appease elected officials openly calling for action against the tech giant. More revelations from leaked documents appear in store, and a former member of Facebook's integrity team emerged Friday as another whistleblower. The former employee reportedly told US regulators that Facebook dismissed controversy over Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election as a "flash in the pan" and that managers undermined efforts to fight disinformation for fear of angering Trump or his fans.

Rising tide of leaks threatens to inundate Facebook

In a call, US President Joe Biden and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening European defences. &nbsp;

The statement said, the two leaders "discussed efforts to enable a stronger and more capable European defence while ensuring complementarity with NATO." &nbsp;

The two leaders are due to meet in Rome later this month. The statement said Biden looked forward to the chance to "take stock of the many areas of US-France cooperation, and reinforce our shared interests." The French presidency also issued a similar statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-contain-beijing-anger-after-biden-vows-taiwan-defense-423109" hreflang="en">US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense</a>

This development comes as the US is looking to mend ties after the crisis over AUKUS row. &nbsp;

On September 22, the two presidents had last spoken to each other. It was their first conversation since the spat. &nbsp;

After the call, Macron ordered the French ambassador to return to the US. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Macron and Biden had vowed to initiate 'in-depth consultations' to bring back the friendship and confidence between the two countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-neera-tanden-appointed-bidens-staff-secretary-reports-423070" hreflang="en">Indian-American Neera Tanden appointed Biden's staff secretary: Reports</a>

"The two leaders agreed that the situation would have benefitted from open consultations among allies on matters of strategic interest to France and our European partners," the statement reads. &nbsp;

Earlier, the French president had openly criticised Australia for ditching a submarine deal with the European nation for a new defence pact with the US and UK, especially without letting Macron know in advance. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a call, US President Joe Biden and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening European defences. The statement said, the two leaders "discussed efforts to enable a stronger and more capable European defence while ensuring complementarity with NATO.

In a call, US President Joe Biden and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening European defences. The statement said, the two leaders "discussed efforts to enable a stronger and more capable European defence while ensuring complementarity with NATO." The two leaders are due to meet in Rome later this month. The statement said Biden looked forward to the chance to "take stock of the many areas of US-France cooperation, and reinforce our shared interests." The French presidency also issued a similar statement. Also Read: US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense This development comes as the US is looking to mend ties after the crisis over AUKUS row. On September 22, the two presidents had last spoken to each other. It was their first conversation since the spat. After the call, Macron ordered the French ambassador to return to the US. Macron and Biden had vowed to initiate 'in-depth consultations' to bring back the friendship and confidence between the two countries. Also Read | Indian-American Neera Tanden appointed Biden's staff secretary: Reports "The two leaders agreed that the situation would have benefitted from open consultations among allies on matters of strategic interest to France and our European partners," the statement reads. Earlier, the French president had openly criticised Australia for ditching a submarine deal with the European nation for a new defence pact with the US and UK, especially without letting Macron know in advance. (With inputs from agencies)

In call, Biden, Macron discuss strengthening European defences  

When Florida gave restaurants the green light to reopen indoor dining earlier this year, restaurateurs like Carlos Gazitua were euphoric. They hoped it would resuscitate their businesses, many of which were on life-support after the shutdown. But they quickly learned it was tough to coax workers back.

“It was a crisis,"&nbsp;said Gazitua, owner and CEO of the Sergio’s Restaurant chain in Florida. “We couldn’t find anyone.” Even a major job fair, drawing dozens of restaurant and hotel owners offering more than 1,000 jobs in May, was disastrous.

“We had 40 employers and only four people showed up!” he said. “It was bizarre — all the employers thought we were on ‘Candid Camera’.”

So, Gazitua turned to robotics, bringing in the Servi robot in July at one of his restaurants. Servi uses cameras and laser sensors to carry plates of food from the kitchen to tables in the dining room, where the waiter then transfers the plates to the customer’s table. The robot costs $999 a month, including installation and support.

Servi saved wait staff and bussers from having to run back and forth to the kitchen and gave overworked servers more time to schmooze with customers and serve more tables, which led to higher tips.

“In the first two hours, the servers were amazed!” he said, adding that Servis have now been added to the company’s five other full-service restaurants.

Gazitua is among a growing number of restaurant and hotel owners who are turning to robotics during this labour shortage. Robots don’t call in sick, don’t request raises and do jobs, like frying and cleaning, that workers don’t like.

Indeed, many robotics companies, like Miso Robotics, Bear Robotics, Peanut Robotics, Knightscope, SoftBank Robotics and Makr Shakr, say they have seen huge spikes in inquiries for their robots since the pandemic hit.

Miso is getting 150 inquiries a week for its Flippy robot, said Mike Bell, CEO of Miso. Flippy uses artificial intelligence, sensors, computer vision and robotic arms to fry fast food, like French fries and chicken wings. The robot, which costs about $3,000 per month, including maintenance, identifies the food, senses the oil temperature, and monitors the cook time.

The CDC estimates 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die each year from foodborne illnesses. Using robots like Flippy improves a kitchen’s cooking accuracy and consistency, reducing human error that could lead to food contamination issues, Bell said.

White Castle started testing Flippy at its Merrillville, Indiana, restaurant in late 2020.

“This is the toughest labour market we’ve encountered since World War II,” said Jamie Richardson, vice president of marketing at White Castle, founded in 1921. The test went so well that it plans to add Flippy to 10 more locations. Michael J. Hicks, professor of economics and director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, echoed Richardson’s view of the job situation.

“The leisure and hospitality industry saw a 50% drop in employment in 2020, a dip of 8.3 million workers,” he said. “That is far and away the worst shock to the industry on record, dating back to the Great Depression.”

Bear Robotics, which makes the Servi robot, has seen demand skyrocket, said Juan Higueros, co-founder and chief operating officer. Aside from Sergio’s restaurants, he has fielded inquiries from casinos, restaurant chains, arenas and even senior living residences, desperate to assist overworked staff.

“Burnout is becoming a very big problem for restaurant staff,” he said.

Peanut Robotics, a startup, makes a robot that cleans and sanitizes restrooms, and SoftBank Robotics makes Whiz, which vacuums floors.

Although Peanut is still in the prototype phase, this hasn’t stopped hotel chains, offices and restaurants from requesting the robot. “We’re not actively marketing, but people keep finding us,” said Joe Augenbraun, the company’s CEO. “I have demand for hundreds of them right now.”

Knightscope makes robots that use artificial intelligence, video and two-way audio to patrol outdoor or indoor areas. It uses thermal imaging, license plate recognition and other software. There is also an alert button on the robot that allows the caller to speak directly to someone. Demand has been particularly high lately from casinos and office buildings, said Stacy Stephens, co-founder and chief client officer at Knightscope.

Makr Shakr, based in Italy, makes robotic bartenders, whose arms can measure, mix, shake, pour and even garnish cocktails. Over the past three months, inquiries have jumped 50% from pre-pandemic levels, said Carlo Ratti, a founding partner and a professor the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The Tipsy Robot, a bar that opened in Las Vegas in 2017, uses Makr Shakr’s robotic arms. Its general manager, Victor Reza Valanejad, said the robot was a godsend when COVID hit. “I was getting about 120 applications a day in 2019 for bartenders,” he said. But in April 2021, the same ad took three weeks to get only 14 applications. “And of those 14, no one showed up for the interviews,” he said.

While robots don’t call in sick or ask for raises, they can break down. As a result, a restaurant is at the mercy of the robotics company to respond quickly. Sometimes, a software glitch can be fixed remotely, but a hardware issue usually requires an on-site repair. Most of the companies said they could make repairs within 24 hours, but not always.

Robots have had some highly publicized missteps.

In 2019, a Knightscope 5 robot made headlines when a fight broke out in Huntington Park, California, where the robot was patrolling. When a woman ran to the robot for assistance and pushed its emergency alert button, the robot repeatedly barked “Get out of the way” and proceeded to roll past her — and the ongoing fight — while playing a little tune. A bystander ended up calling 911.

Stephens blamed the mishap on a robot that had been deployed before its software had been fully installed and its line to 911 had been hooked up. Since then, he said, the city has credited the robot for lowering crime and has extended its contract for two more years.

SoftBank Robotics’s Pepper, which is touted as a robot that can read people’s emotions, remember faces and interact with people, has probably received the most negative publicity.

A Scottish grocery store, Margiotta, hired the robot to give directions to customers looking for items in the store, but fired Pepper when it kept giving vague answers, like “It’s in the alcohol section” when asked where to find beer.

Then there was Pepper’s stint at a Japanese nursing home, where it was hired to lead singalongs and hold exercise classes for seniors. But it kept malfunctioning.

Its biggest blemish came when a 2018 Swedish university research report said Pepper’s technology had serious security flaws. It said a breach would allow a hacker to spy on people through Pepper’s cameras and microphones and even take control of Pepper’s arms. SoftBank said the security flaw has since been patched.

“Most Peppers have now been fired,” said Dina Marie Zemke, associate professor at Ball State University and author of a 2020 report on robotics. “Either you loved them or you were completely creeped out by them.”

Pepper wasn’t cheap, retailing for $20,000 to $25,000.

SoftBank recently stopped production of Pepper, sold off its majority stake in Boston Dynamics, and laid off about half of its 330-member team in France. But Kass Dawson, SoftBank Robotics’ vice president of brand strategy, insists Pepper’s production is only temporarily halted and that its robotics division remains a company priority.

Industry experts believe the labour shortages stemming from the pandemic accelerated the acceptance of robots in the workplace.

“We’ve all gotten more comfortable with dealing with robots — that’s one of the legacies of the pandemic,” said Craig Le Clair, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester. “We’re able to trade off the creepiness of robots with the improved help characteristics.”

When Florida gave restaurants the green light to reopen indoor dining earlier this year, restaurateurs like Carlos Gazitua were euphoric. They hoped it would resuscitate their businesses, many of which were on life-support after the shutdown.

When Florida gave restaurants the green light to reopen indoor dining earlier this year, restaurateurs like Carlos Gazitua were euphoric. They hoped it would resuscitate their businesses, many of which were on life-support after the shutdown. But they quickly learned it was tough to coax workers back. “It was a crisis," said Gazitua, owner and CEO of the Sergio’s Restaurant chain in Florida. “We couldn’t find anyone.” Even a major job fair, drawing dozens of restaurant and hotel owners offering more than 1,000 jobs in May, was disastrous. “We had 40 employers and only four people showed up!” he said. “It was bizarre — all the employers thought we were on ‘Candid Camera’.” So, Gazitua turned to robotics, bringing in the Servi robot in July at one of his restaurants. Servi uses cameras and laser sensors to carry plates of food from the kitchen to tables in the dining room, where the waiter then transfers the plates to the customer’s table. The robot costs $999 a month, including installation and support. Servi saved wait staff and bussers from having to run back and forth to the kitchen and gave overworked servers more time to schmooze with customers and serve more tables, which led to higher tips. “In the first two hours, the servers were amazed!” he said, adding that Servis have now been added to the company’s five other full-service restaurants. Gazitua is among a growing number of restaurant and hotel owners who are turning to robotics during this labour shortage. Robots don’t call in sick, don’t request raises and do jobs, like frying and cleaning, that workers don’t like. Indeed, many robotics companies, like Miso Robotics, Bear Robotics, Peanut Robotics, Knightscope, SoftBank Robotics and Makr Shakr, say they have seen huge spikes in inquiries for their robots since the pandemic hit. Miso is getting 150 inquiries a week for its Flippy robot, said Mike Bell, CEO of Miso. Flippy uses artificial intelligence, sensors, computer vision and robotic arms to fry fast food, like French fries and chicken wings. The robot, which costs about $3,000 per month, including maintenance, identifies the food, senses the oil temperature, and monitors the cook time. The CDC estimates 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die each year from foodborne illnesses. Using robots like Flippy improves a kitchen’s cooking accuracy and consistency, reducing human error that could lead to food contamination issues, Bell said. White Castle started testing Flippy at its Merrillville, Indiana, restaurant in late 2020. “This is the toughest labour market we’ve encountered since World War II,” said Jamie Richardson, vice president of marketing at White Castle, founded in 1921. The test went so well that it plans to add Flippy to 10 more locations. Michael J. Hicks, professor of economics and director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, echoed Richardson’s view of the job situation. “The leisure and hospitality industry saw a 50% drop in employment in 2020, a dip of 8.3 million workers,” he said. “That is far and away the worst shock to the industry on record, dating back to the Great Depression.” Bear Robotics, which makes the Servi robot, has seen demand skyrocket, said Juan Higueros, co-founder and chief operating officer. Aside from Sergio’s restaurants, he has fielded inquiries from casinos, restaurant chains, arenas and even senior living residences, desperate to assist overworked staff. “Burnout is becoming a very big problem for restaurant staff,” he said. Peanut Robotics, a startup, makes a robot that cleans and sanitizes restrooms, and SoftBank Robotics makes Whiz, which vacuums floors. Although Peanut is still in the prototype phase, this hasn’t stopped hotel chains, offices and restaurants from requesting the robot. “We’re not actively marketing, but people keep finding us,” said Joe Augenbraun, the company’s CEO. “I have demand for hundreds of them right now.” Knightscope makes robots that use artificial intelligence, video and two-way audio to patrol outdoor or indoor areas. It uses thermal imaging, license plate recognition and other software. There is also an alert button on the robot that allows the caller to speak directly to someone. Demand has been particularly high lately from casinos and office buildings, said Stacy Stephens, co-founder and chief client officer at Knightscope. Makr Shakr, based in Italy, makes robotic bartenders, whose arms can measure, mix, shake, pour and even garnish cocktails. Over the past three months, inquiries have jumped 50% from pre-pandemic levels, said Carlo Ratti, a founding partner and a professor the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Tipsy Robot, a bar that opened in Las Vegas in 2017, uses Makr Shakr’s robotic arms. Its general manager, Victor Reza Valanejad, said the robot was a godsend when COVID hit. “I was getting about 120 applications a day in 2019 for bartenders,” he said. But in April 2021, the same ad took three weeks to get only 14 applications. “And of those 14, no one showed up for the interviews,” he said. While robots don’t call in sick or ask for raises, they can break down. As a result, a restaurant is at the mercy of the robotics company to respond quickly. Sometimes, a software glitch can be fixed remotely, but a hardware issue usually requires an on-site repair. Most of the companies said they could make repairs within 24 hours, but not always. Robots have had some highly publicized missteps. In 2019, a Knightscope 5 robot made headlines when a fight broke out in Huntington Park, California, where the robot was patrolling. When a woman ran to the robot for assistance and pushed its emergency alert button, the robot repeatedly barked “Get out of the way” and proceeded to roll past her — and the ongoing fight — while playing a little tune. A bystander ended up calling 911. Stephens blamed the mishap on a robot that had been deployed before its software had been fully installed and its line to 911 had been hooked up. Since then, he said, the city has credited the robot for lowering crime and has extended its contract for two more years. SoftBank Robotics’s Pepper, which is touted as a robot that can read people’s emotions, remember faces and interact with people, has probably received the most negative publicity. A Scottish grocery store, Margiotta, hired the robot to give directions to customers looking for items in the store, but fired Pepper when it kept giving vague answers, like “It’s in the alcohol section” when asked where to find beer. Then there was Pepper’s stint at a Japanese nursing home, where it was hired to lead singalongs and hold exercise classes for seniors. But it kept malfunctioning. Its biggest blemish came when a 2018 Swedish university research report said Pepper’s technology had serious security flaws. It said a breach would allow a hacker to spy on people through Pepper’s cameras and microphones and even take control of Pepper’s arms. SoftBank said the security flaw has since been patched. “Most Peppers have now been fired,” said Dina Marie Zemke, associate professor at Ball State University and author of a 2020 report on robotics. “Either you loved them or you were completely creeped out by them.” Pepper wasn’t cheap, retailing for $20,000 to $25,000. SoftBank recently stopped production of Pepper, sold off its majority stake in Boston Dynamics, and laid off about half of its 330-member team in France. But Kass Dawson, SoftBank Robotics’ vice president of brand strategy, insists Pepper’s production is only temporarily halted and that its robotics division remains a company priority. Industry experts believe the labour shortages stemming from the pandemic accelerated the acceptance of robots in the workplace. “We’ve all gotten more comfortable with dealing with robots — that’s one of the legacies of the pandemic,” said Craig Le Clair, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester. “We’re able to trade off the creepiness of robots with the improved help characteristics.”

Desperate for workers, restaurants turn to robots

The Supreme Court on Friday once again refused to immediately block a Texas law that banned most abortions after six weeks. But the justices agreed to fast-track their consideration of appeals from the Justice Department and abortion providers in Texas, scheduling arguments for Nov. 1.

Only Justice Sonia Sotomayor filed a dissent.

“For the second time, the court is presented with an application to enjoin a statute enacted in open disregard of the constitutional rights of women seeking abortion care in Texas,” she wrote. “For the second time, the court declines to act immediately to protect these women from grave and irreparable harm.”

But she added she welcomed the court’s decision to hear arguments in the two cases, which will apparently be limited to the procedural question of whether the Texas law, SB 8, is subject to review in federal court given its novel structure.

The court said it would decide this question in the federal government’s appeal: “May the United States bring suit in federal court and obtain injunctive or declaratory relief against the state, state court judges, state court clerks, other state officials or all private parties to prohibit SB 8 from being enforced?”

The court turned down a request from officials in Texas to use the cases to decide whether to overturn the right to abortion established in 1973 in Roe v. Wade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-neera-tanden-appointed-bidens-staff-secretary-reports-423070">Also read |&nbsp;Indian-American Neera Tanden appointed Biden's staff secretary: Reports</a>

That question is already before the court in a case challenging a Mississippi law that bans most abortions after 15 weeks. Roe and other Supreme Court precedents, notably Planned Parenthood v. Casey in 1992, prohibit states from banning abortion before fetal viability, the point at which fetuses can sustain life outside the womb, or about 22 to 24 weeks into a pregnancy. The Mississippi case will be argued Dec. 1, a month after the Texas case.

The Texas law, known as Senate Bill 8, was designed to evade review in federal court.

Usually, a lawsuit seeking to block a law because it is unconstitutional would name state officials as defendants. However, the Texas law, which makes no exceptions for pregnancies resulting from incest or rape, bars state officials from enforcing it and instead deputises private individuals to sue anyone who performs the procedure or “aids and abets” it.

The patient may not be sued, but doctors, staff members at clinics, counsellors, people who help pay for the procedure or drive them to it are all potential defendants. Plaintiffs, who do not need to live in Texas, have any connection to the abortion or show any injury from it, are entitled to $10,000 and their legal fees recovered if they win. Prevailing defendants are not entitled to legal fees.

The Supreme Court’s earlier encounter with the case left the justices bitterly divided.

In an unsigned opinion in that earlier case, the majority cited “complex and novel” procedural obstacles to blocking the law and stressed that it was not ruling on the constitutionality of the law.

The majority wrote that its ruling “in no way limits other procedurally proper challenges to the Texas law, including in Texas state courts.” Officials in Texas have said that providers can challenge the law by violating it, getting sued and asserting the law’s unconstitutionality as part of their defence.

Chief Justice John Roberts joined the court’s three more liberal members in dissent in the earlier case. All four dissenting justices filed opinions.

“The court’s order is stunning,” Sotomayor wrote in her dissent at the time. “Presented with an application to enjoin a flagrantly unconstitutional law engineered to prohibit women from exercising their constitutional rights and evade judicial scrutiny, a majority of justices have opted to bury their heads in the sand.”

“The court has rewarded the state’s effort to delay federal review of a plainly unconstitutional statute, enacted in disregard of the court’s precedents, through procedural entanglements of the state’s own creation,” Sotomayor wrote. “The court should not be so content to ignore its constitutional obligations to protect not only the rights of women, but also the sanctity of its precedents and of the rule of law.”

Roberts wrote that he would have blocked the law while appeals moved forward.

“The statutory scheme before the court is not only unusual, but unprecedented,” he wrote. “The legislature has imposed a prohibition on abortions after roughly six weeks, and then essentially delegated enforcement of that prohibition to the populace at large. The desired consequence appears to be to insulate the state from responsibility for implementing and enforcing the regulatory regime.”

After the Supreme Court rejected the providers’ request for emergency relief, the Justice Department then filed its own challenge to the law, one that it said was not subject to the procedural barriers the providers had faced.

On Oct. 6, Judge Robert Pitman of the U.S. District Court in Austin ruled for the federal government, granting it a preliminary injunction forbidding the state, its officials and private individuals acting in concert with them for enforcing the law.

“That other courts may find a way to avoid this conclusion is theirs to decide,” he wrote. “This court will not sanction one more day of this offensive deprivation of such an important right.”

An injunction was an appropriate response, Pitman wrote, to a law that both violated the Constitution and was designed to evade judicial review.

“Fully aware that depriving its citizens of this right by direct state action would be flagrantly unconstitutional,” he wrote, “the state contrived an unprecedented and transparent statutory scheme to do just that.”

A divided three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, in New Orleans, stayed Pitman’s ruling, reinstating the law. The Justice Department then filed an application asking the Supreme Court to lift the stay.

“SB 8 is plainly unconstitutional under this court’s precedents,” wrote Brian Fletcher, the acting solicitor general. “Texas has not seriously argued otherwise.”

“SB 8 is an affront to the United States’ sovereign interests in maintaining the supremacy of federal law and ensuring that the traditional mechanisms of judicial review endorsed by Congress and this court remain available to challenge unconstitutional state laws,” he wrote.

Ken Paxton, Texas’ attorney general, responded that the federal government was powerless to challenge the state’s abortion law.

“At bottom, the federal government’s complaint is that SB 8 is difficult to effectively enjoin,” Paxton wrote. “But there is no requirement that a state write its laws such that they can be easily enjoined.”

The Supreme Court on Friday once again refused to immediately block a Texas law that banned most abortions after six weeks. But the justices agreed to fast-track their consideration of appeals from the Justice Department and abortion providers in Texas, scheduling arguments for Nov.

The Supreme Court on Friday once again refused to immediately block a Texas law that banned most abortions after six weeks. But the justices agreed to fast-track their consideration of appeals from the Justice Department and abortion providers in Texas, scheduling arguments for Nov. 1. Only Justice Sonia Sotomayor filed a dissent. “For the second time, the court is presented with an application to enjoin a statute enacted in open disregard of the constitutional rights of women seeking abortion care in Texas,” she wrote. “For the second time, the court declines to act immediately to protect these women from grave and irreparable harm.” But she added she welcomed the court’s decision to hear arguments in the two cases, which will apparently be limited to the procedural question of whether the Texas law, SB 8, is subject to review in federal court given its novel structure. The court said it would decide this question in the federal government’s appeal: “May the United States bring suit in federal court and obtain injunctive or declaratory relief against the state, state court judges, state court clerks, other state officials or all private parties to prohibit SB 8 from being enforced?” The court turned down a request from officials in Texas to use the cases to decide whether to overturn the right to abortion established in 1973 in Roe v. Wade. Also read | Indian-American Neera Tanden appointed Biden's staff secretary: Reports That question is already before the court in a case challenging a Mississippi law that bans most abortions after 15 weeks. Roe and other Supreme Court precedents, notably Planned Parenthood v. Casey in 1992, prohibit states from banning abortion before fetal viability, the point at which fetuses can sustain life outside the womb, or about 22 to 24 weeks into a pregnancy. The Mississippi case will be argued Dec. 1, a month after the Texas case. The Texas law, known as Senate Bill 8, was designed to evade review in federal court. Usually, a lawsuit seeking to block a law because it is unconstitutional would name state officials as defendants. However, the Texas law, which makes no exceptions for pregnancies resulting from incest or rape, bars state officials from enforcing it and instead deputises private individuals to sue anyone who performs the procedure or “aids and abets” it. The patient may not be sued, but doctors, staff members at clinics, counsellors, people who help pay for the procedure or drive them to it are all potential defendants. Plaintiffs, who do not need to live in Texas, have any connection to the abortion or show any injury from it, are entitled to $10,000 and their legal fees recovered if they win. Prevailing defendants are not entitled to legal fees. The Supreme Court’s earlier encounter with the case left the justices bitterly divided. In an unsigned opinion in that earlier case, the majority cited “complex and novel” procedural obstacles to blocking the law and stressed that it was not ruling on the constitutionality of the law. The majority wrote that its ruling “in no way limits other procedurally proper challenges to the Texas law, including in Texas state courts.” Officials in Texas have said that providers can challenge the law by violating it, getting sued and asserting the law’s unconstitutionality as part of their defence. Chief Justice John Roberts joined the court’s three more liberal members in dissent in the earlier case. All four dissenting justices filed opinions. “The court’s order is stunning,” Sotomayor wrote in her dissent at the time. “Presented with an application to enjoin a flagrantly unconstitutional law engineered to prohibit women from exercising their constitutional rights and evade judicial scrutiny, a majority of justices have opted to bury their heads in the sand.” “The court has rewarded the state’s effort to delay federal review of a plainly unconstitutional statute, enacted in disregard of the court’s precedents, through procedural entanglements of the state’s own creation,” Sotomayor wrote. “The court should not be so content to ignore its constitutional obligations to protect not only the rights of women, but also the sanctity of its precedents and of the rule of law.” Roberts wrote that he would have blocked the law while appeals moved forward. “The statutory scheme before the court is not only unusual, but unprecedented,” he wrote. “The legislature has imposed a prohibition on abortions after roughly six weeks, and then essentially delegated enforcement of that prohibition to the populace at large. The desired consequence appears to be to insulate the state from responsibility for implementing and enforcing the regulatory regime.” After the Supreme Court rejected the providers’ request for emergency relief, the Justice Department then filed its own challenge to the law, one that it said was not subject to the procedural barriers the providers had faced. On Oct. 6, Judge Robert Pitman of the U.S. District Court in Austin ruled for the federal government, granting it a preliminary injunction forbidding the state, its officials and private individuals acting in concert with them for enforcing the law. “That other courts may find a way to avoid this conclusion is theirs to decide,” he wrote. “This court will not sanction one more day of this offensive deprivation of such an important right.” An injunction was an appropriate response, Pitman wrote, to a law that both violated the Constitution and was designed to evade judicial review. “Fully aware that depriving its citizens of this right by direct state action would be flagrantly unconstitutional,” he wrote, “the state contrived an unprecedented and transparent statutory scheme to do just that.” A divided three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, in New Orleans, stayed Pitman’s ruling, reinstating the law. The Justice Department then filed an application asking the Supreme Court to lift the stay. “SB 8 is plainly unconstitutional under this court’s precedents,” wrote Brian Fletcher, the acting solicitor general. “Texas has not seriously argued otherwise.” “SB 8 is an affront to the United States’ sovereign interests in maintaining the supremacy of federal law and ensuring that the traditional mechanisms of judicial review endorsed by Congress and this court remain available to challenge unconstitutional state laws,” he wrote. Ken Paxton, Texas’ attorney general, responded that the federal government was powerless to challenge the state’s abortion law. “At bottom, the federal government’s complaint is that SB 8 is difficult to effectively enjoin,” Paxton wrote. “But there is no requirement that a state write its laws such that they can be easily enjoined.”

Supreme Court again refuses to block Texas abortion law

The US intelligence community has warned that climate change will lead to growing international tensions. The first-ever National Intelligence Estimate on Climate Change highlights the impact of climate on national security through to 2040. It warns of the risks if futuristic geo engineering technologies are deployed by some countries acting alone.

The assessment comes as a collective view of all 18 US intelligence agencies.&nbsp;

It talks about how the world is failing to co-operate and moving towards dangerous competition and instability. "A decline in fossil fuel revenue would further strain Middle Eastern countries that are projected to face more intense climate effects," says the report.

The report identifies 11 countries and two regions where energy, food, water and health security are at risk. This is because they tend to be poorer and less able to adapt. Five of the 11 countries are in South and East Asia, including Afghanistan, Burma, India, Pakistan and North Korea. Four countries are in Central America and the Caribbean, including Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua. Colombia and Iraq are the others.&nbsp;Central Africa and small states in the Pacific are also at risk.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fridays-for-future-activists-in-bern-demand-climate-strike-ahead-of-cop26-423112">Also read |&nbsp;'Fridays for Future': Activists in Bern demand climate strike ahead of COP26</a>

The Arctic is likely to be a major concern as it becomes more accessible because of reducing ice.&nbsp;

This may open new shipping routes and access to fish stocks but also create risks of miscalculation as militaries move in.

Access to water will also become a source of problems. In the Middle East and North Africa, about 60 per cent of surface water resources cross boundaries. Meanwhile, the Mekong River basin could cause problems between China and Cambodia and Vietnam, the report warns.

Another source of risk is that a country might decide to use geo engineering. This involves using futuristic technology.&nbsp;

However, if one country acts alone it could simply shift the problem to another region and create anger from other nations which have been impacted in a negative way.

Researchers in countries like, Australia, China, India, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as several EU members, are looking at these techniques. However, there are few rules or regulations.

The US intelligence community has warned that climate change will lead to growing international tensions. The first-ever National Intelligence Estimate on Climate Change highlights the impact of climate on national security through to 2040.

The US intelligence community has warned that climate change will lead to growing international tensions. The first-ever National Intelligence Estimate on Climate Change highlights the impact of climate on national security through to 2040. It warns of the risks if futuristic geo engineering technologies are deployed by some countries acting alone. The assessment comes as a collective view of all 18 US intelligence agencies. It talks about how the world is failing to co-operate and moving towards dangerous competition and instability. "A decline in fossil fuel revenue would further strain Middle Eastern countries that are projected to face more intense climate effects," says the report. The report identifies 11 countries and two regions where energy, food, water and health security are at risk. This is because they tend to be poorer and less able to adapt. Five of the 11 countries are in South and East Asia, including Afghanistan, Burma, India, Pakistan and North Korea. Four countries are in Central America and the Caribbean, including Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua. Colombia and Iraq are the others. Central Africa and small states in the Pacific are also at risk. Also read | 'Fridays for Future': Activists in Bern demand climate strike ahead of COP26 The Arctic is likely to be a major concern as it becomes more accessible because of reducing ice. This may open new shipping routes and access to fish stocks but also create risks of miscalculation as militaries move in. Access to water will also become a source of problems. In the Middle East and North Africa, about 60 per cent of surface water resources cross boundaries. Meanwhile, the Mekong River basin could cause problems between China and Cambodia and Vietnam, the report warns. Another source of risk is that a country might decide to use geo engineering. This involves using futuristic technology. However, if one country acts alone it could simply shift the problem to another region and create anger from other nations which have been impacted in a negative way. Researchers in countries like, Australia, China, India, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as several EU members, are looking at these techniques. However, there are few rules or regulations.

Climate change may lead to global tension, says US intelligence report

The US has sent a strong message to China. If Xi Jinping decides to attack Taiwan, President Joe Biden has said that the US welcomed the island's defence.

US sends strong message to China, defends Taiwan's stance

For the first time in history- the United States intelligence community has published a report on climate change.The findings are bleak.The report warns that the climate crisis will ignite tensions across the world as countries will be forced to compete for scarce resources.

United States intelligence community publishes report on climate change

More than 1,800 sexual assaults occurred during Lyft rides in 2019, the company said Thursday in its first-ever safety report on sexual and physical assaults, fatal crashes and other serious incidents.

Lyft’s safety report had been long awaited in the ride-hailing industry, as the company is facing lawsuits from victims of sexual assaults that occurred during rides. It committed to releasing its sexual assault statistics in 2019, when Uber released a similar report.

“While safety incidents on our platform are incredibly rare, we realize that even one is too many,” Lyft’s head of policy development and research, Jennifer Brandenburger, said in a blog post Thursday. “Behind every report is a real person and real experience.”

The 1,807 sexual assaults during Lyft rides in 2019, the most recent year for data in the report, were a 64 per cent increase from 2017, the company said. But because the number of rides rose even faster, safety improved overall, Lyft said, with the incident rate of sexual assaults declining 19 per cent during the period.

Four people were killed during physical assaults in 2019, and 49 were killed during motor vehicle accidents, Lyft said in the report.

“The type of safety incidents detailed in this report occurred on 0.0002 per cent of rides, and well over 99 per cent of all rides occur without any safety report at all,” Brandenburger said.

The statistics are in line with similar incidents on Uber’s platform. Uber said in its 2019 safety report that the number of sexual assaults on its platform the previous year represented just 0.0002 per cent of all rides.

Rachel Abrams, a lawyer who represents about 1,000 sexual assault victims in lawsuits against Uber and Lyft, said the report from Lyft was long overdue. “We’ve all been waiting for it,” she said.

“They are not implementing the safety measures to prevent this from happening, and it’s just going to keep mounting,” Abrams added. She said Lyft should incorporate video surveillance in its vehicles to monitor for safety problems.

Lyft said it was working to make its platform as safe as possible, requiring drivers to undergo rigorous background checks and offering riders safety check-ins and emergency assistance during rides that veer off course.

More than 1,800 sexual assaults occurred during Lyft rides in 2019, the company said Thursday in its first-ever safety report on sexual and physical assaults, fatal crashes and other serious incidents.

More than 1,800 sexual assaults occurred during Lyft rides in 2019, the company said Thursday in its first-ever safety report on sexual and physical assaults, fatal crashes and other serious incidents. Lyft’s safety report had been long awaited in the ride-hailing industry, as the company is facing lawsuits from victims of sexual assaults that occurred during rides. It committed to releasing its sexual assault statistics in 2019, when Uber released a similar report. “While safety incidents on our platform are incredibly rare, we realize that even one is too many,” Lyft’s head of policy development and research, Jennifer Brandenburger, said in a blog post Thursday. “Behind every report is a real person and real experience.” The 1,807 sexual assaults during Lyft rides in 2019, the most recent year for data in the report, were a 64 per cent increase from 2017, the company said. But because the number of rides rose even faster, safety improved overall, Lyft said, with the incident rate of sexual assaults declining 19 per cent during the period. Four people were killed during physical assaults in 2019, and 49 were killed during motor vehicle accidents, Lyft said in the report. “The type of safety incidents detailed in this report occurred on 0.0002 per cent of rides, and well over 99 per cent of all rides occur without any safety report at all,” Brandenburger said. The statistics are in line with similar incidents on Uber’s platform. Uber said in its 2019 safety report that the number of sexual assaults on its platform the previous year represented just 0.0002 per cent of all rides. Rachel Abrams, a lawyer who represents about 1,000 sexual assault victims in lawsuits against Uber and Lyft, said the report from Lyft was long overdue. “We’ve all been waiting for it,” she said. “They are not implementing the safety measures to prevent this from happening, and it’s just going to keep mounting,” Abrams added. She said Lyft should incorporate video surveillance in its vehicles to monitor for safety problems. Lyft said it was working to make its platform as safe as possible, requiring drivers to undergo rigorous background checks and offering riders safety check-ins and emergency assistance during rides that veer off course.

Lyft says 1,807 sexual assaults occurred in rides in 2019

A new report by Bennington College’s Beyond Plastics project has revealed that the plastics industry in the US will be releasing more greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) than coal-powered electricity generating plants by the end of the decade.

The report found that the American plastics industry is releasing at least 232m tons of GHG annually. This is equivalent to 116 average-sized coal-fired power plants.

Judith Enck, president of Beyond Plastics and former regional Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator under President Obama said that plastic has become the new coal. She was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The health impacts of the emissions are disproportionately borne by low-income communities and communities of color."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-largest-triceratops-big-john-fetches-nearly-8-million-in-auction-422838">Also read |&nbsp;World's largest triceratops, 'Big John,' fetches nearly $8 million in auction</a>

It has been reported that 90 per cent of the plastics industry’s climate change pollution takes place in just 18 communities. This is where the residents earn 28 per cent less than the average American household and are 67 per cent more likely to be minority communities.

The report further highlighted 10 different stages in which plastics manufacturing emits the maximum amount of GHG. It was concluded that Hydro-fracking is expected to release 45m tons of methane annually in the US by 2025.

Also, transporting and processing fracked gases emit roughly 4.8m tons of methane a year.

The petrochemical ethane gas cracker facilities release at least 70m tons of GHG annually.&nbsp;

Various other plastic raw materials manufacturing is responsible for 28m tons of GHG emissions annually. The exports and imports of plastics raw materials and products emit at least 51m tons of GHG annually. This is equivalent to more than 25 coal-fired power plants.

A new report by Bennington College’s Beyond Plastics project has revealed that the plastics industry in the US will be releasing more greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) than coal-powered electricity generating plants by the end of the decade.

A new report by Bennington College’s Beyond Plastics project has revealed that the plastics industry in the US will be releasing more greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) than coal-powered electricity generating plants by the end of the decade. The report found that the American plastics industry is releasing at least 232m tons of GHG annually. This is equivalent to 116 average-sized coal-fired power plants. Judith Enck, president of Beyond Plastics and former regional Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator under President Obama said that plastic has become the new coal. She was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The health impacts of the emissions are disproportionately borne by low-income communities and communities of color." Also read | World's largest triceratops, 'Big John,' fetches nearly $8 million in auction It has been reported that 90 per cent of the plastics industry’s climate change pollution takes place in just 18 communities. This is where the residents earn 28 per cent less than the average American household and are 67 per cent more likely to be minority communities. The report further highlighted 10 different stages in which plastics manufacturing emits the maximum amount of GHG. It was concluded that Hydro-fracking is expected to release 45m tons of methane annually in the US by 2025. Also, transporting and processing fracked gases emit roughly 4.8m tons of methane a year. The petrochemical ethane gas cracker facilities release at least 70m tons of GHG annually. Various other plastic raw materials manufacturing is responsible for 28m tons of GHG emissions annually. The exports and imports of plastics raw materials and products emit at least 51m tons of GHG annually. This is equivalent to more than 25 coal-fired power plants.

US: Plastics to overtake coal’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, says study

The Group of 20 rich countries are divided over phasing out coal and committing to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as they prepare for a crucial summit in Rome next week, sources familiar with the negotiations said.

The need to curb emissions will be high on the agenda of the Rome G20 gathering on Oct. 30-31, seen as a key stepping stone immediately ahead of broader United Nations climate talks, called COP 26, to be held in Glasgow, Scotland.

So far big polluters such as China and India have dug in their heels and little progress has been made since G20 energy and environment ministers met in Naples in July, said three sources, asking not to be named due to the sensitivity of the talks.

"Countries are not moving, at the moment they are still just making sure their positions are heard loud and clear," said one of the sources.

However he added that such intransigence was normal at this stage and any concessions were unlikely to come before G20 climate sherpas meet face-to-face next Thursday and Friday, immediately before their leaders` weekend meeting.

"Where I see the problem is in the commitment to 1.5 degrees and in the phase out of coal and fossil fuels by China, India and Russia," said another source, a G20 minister.

Climate scientists say capping global warming at 1.5 degrees compared with pre-industrial levels is vital to limit environmental disasters, but a broad and clear commitment to achieve the goal is proving elusive.

The landmark UN Paris Agreement signed in 2015 aimed to limit global warming to "well below 2 degrees" and "preferably" to 1.5 degrees, and since then international gatherings have tried with difficulty to toughen up the language.

In Naples, energy and environment ministers recognised that environmental risks were lower at 1.5 degrees than at 2, but again fell short of clearly stating 1.5 must not be breached.

They also failed to reach unanimous agreement on fixing dates to end fossil fuel subsidies, halt international financing of coal projects and phase out coal power altogether, asking leaders to bridge the gaps at the upcoming Rome summit.

<h2>Big-hitters stay home</h2>

At least four G20 leaders are not expected to come to Rome, including China`s Xi Jinping, at the helm of the world`s biggest greenhouse gas emitter, and Russia`s Vladimir Putin, head of a major oil and gas producer.

One source said while such absences were "not a great political signal," they would not necessarily prevent progress.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be coming to Rome, officials said, and New Delhi confirmed on Thursday that he will also be at the COP26 in Glasgow.

Neither Russia, China nor India have committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, considered a vital goal in limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees.

So far China is proving most reluctant to commit to the 1.5 degree ceiling, while India is most intransigent in not pledging net zero emissions by 2050, one of the sources said.

China and India are also among a group of countries that have not yet presented new national plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) ahead of COP 26, on how they will help curb climate change.

The COP26 president, Britain`s Alok Sharma, said in a speech this month the G20, which accounts for 80% of global emissions, would be "make, or break" for achieving success in Glasgow.

However, one of the sources said breakthroughs were more likely in Glasgow than in Rome.

Big emitters like China, India and Russia tend to feel pressured and hectored by the Western countries at the G20, he said, making them defensive and reluctant to concede ground.

The much larger UN forum was more "neutral" and conducive to compromise, he said.

The Rome G20 will also focus on the coronavirus pandemic and how to foster global economic recovery, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, who will chair the meeting, said on Wednesday.

The Group of 20 rich countries are divided over phasing out coal and committing to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as they prepare for a crucial summit in Rome next week, sources familiar with the negotiations said.

The Group of 20 rich countries are divided over phasing out coal and committing to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as they prepare for a crucial summit in Rome next week, sources familiar with the negotiations said. The need to curb emissions will be high on the agenda of the Rome G20 gathering on Oct. 30-31, seen as a key stepping stone immediately ahead of broader United Nations climate talks, called COP 26, to be held in Glasgow, Scotland. So far big polluters such as China and India have dug in their heels and little progress has been made since G20 energy and environment ministers met in Naples in July, said three sources, asking not to be named due to the sensitivity of the talks. "Countries are not moving, at the moment they are still just making sure their positions are heard loud and clear," said one of the sources. However he added that such intransigence was normal at this stage and any concessions were unlikely to come before G20 climate sherpas meet face-to-face next Thursday and Friday, immediately before their leaders` weekend meeting. "Where I see the problem is in the commitment to 1.5 degrees and in the phase out of coal and fossil fuels by China, India and Russia," said another source, a G20 minister. Climate scientists say capping global warming at 1.5 degrees compared with pre-industrial levels is vital to limit environmental disasters, but a broad and clear commitment to achieve the goal is proving elusive. The landmark UN Paris Agreement signed in 2015 aimed to limit global warming to "well below 2 degrees" and "preferably" to 1.5 degrees, and since then international gatherings have tried with difficulty to toughen up the language. In Naples, energy and environment ministers recognised that environmental risks were lower at 1.5 degrees than at 2, but again fell short of clearly stating 1.5 must not be breached. They also failed to reach unanimous agreement on fixing dates to end fossil fuel subsidies, halt international financing of coal projects and phase out coal power altogether, asking leaders to bridge the gaps at the upcoming Rome summit. Big-hitters stay home At least four G20 leaders are not expected to come to Rome, including China`s Xi Jinping, at the helm of the world`s biggest greenhouse gas emitter, and Russia`s Vladimir Putin, head of a major oil and gas producer. One source said while such absences were "not a great political signal," they would not necessarily prevent progress. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be coming to Rome, officials said, and New Delhi confirmed on Thursday that he will also be at the COP26 in Glasgow. Neither Russia, China nor India have committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, considered a vital goal in limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees. So far China is proving most reluctant to commit to the 1.5 degree ceiling, while India is most intransigent in not pledging net zero emissions by 2050, one of the sources said. China and India are also among a group of countries that have not yet presented new national plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) ahead of COP 26, on how they will help curb climate change. The COP26 president, Britain`s Alok Sharma, said in a speech this month the G20, which accounts for 80% of global emissions, would be "make, or break" for achieving success in Glasgow. However, one of the sources said breakthroughs were more likely in Glasgow than in Rome. Big emitters like China, India and Russia tend to feel pressured and hectored by the Western countries at the G20, he said, making them defensive and reluctant to concede ground. The much larger UN forum was more "neutral" and conducive to compromise, he said. The Rome G20 will also focus on the coronavirus pandemic and how to foster global economic recovery, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, who will chair the meeting, said on Wednesday.

G20 split over coal, 1.5 degree climate limit ahead of Rome summit: Report

More than 600 people have fallen sick and 129 hospitalised across 37 states in the US due to mass salmonella outbreak, which has been linked to onions imported from Mexico,&nbsp;according to US media reports.&nbsp;

But, no&nbsp;deaths have been reported so far.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said one source of infections had been traced to onions imported from Chihuahua, Mexico, and distributed by ProSource Inc., also known as ProSource Produce, LLC, based in Hailey, Idaho.

The US Foods and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have asked people to throw away all unlabelled red, white and yellow onions.

“Interviews with sick people show that 75% of people ate or possibly ate raw onions or dishes likely containing raw onions before they became sick,” the CDC said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-largest-triceratops-big-john-fetches-nearly-8-million-in-auction-422838">World's largest triceratops, 'Big John,' fetches nearly $8 million in auction</a>

“Several ill people reported eating at the same restaurants, indicating they may be part of illness clusters.”

According to the FDA, most people with salmonellosis develop diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. More severe cases of salmonellosis may include a high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, blood in the urine or stool, and in some cases may become fatal.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-rules-pablo-escobars-cocaine-hippos-are-legally-people-422874">&nbsp;Court rules Pablo Escobar's cocaine hippos are legally people</a>

The US agency urged restaurants, retailers and consumers not to eat, sell or serve red, yellow, and white onions supplied by ProSource Inc that were imported from the State of Chihuahua, Mexico from July 1, 2021 through August 27, 2021, or products containing such onions.

ProSource has agreed to voluntarily recall all onions it imported from Chihuahua from July 1 through Aug. 27, Frank Yiannas, the Food and Drug Administration's deputy commissioner for food policy and response, said in a statement.

The FDA has launched an investigation, along with the CDC and local authorities, Yiannas said.

“We are issuing this update early in our investigation as part of our continued commitment to transparency and early communication. We will provide updates as we learn more,” Yiannas said.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 600 people have fallen sick and 129 hospitalised across 37 states in the US due to mass salmonella outbreak, which has been linked to onions imported from Mexico, according to US media reports.

More than 600 people have fallen sick and 129 hospitalised across 37 states in the US due to mass salmonella outbreak, which has been linked to onions imported from Mexico, according to US media reports. But, no deaths have been reported so far. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said one source of infections had been traced to onions imported from Chihuahua, Mexico, and distributed by ProSource Inc., also known as ProSource Produce, LLC, based in Hailey, Idaho. The US Foods and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have asked people to throw away all unlabelled red, white and yellow onions. “Interviews with sick people show that 75% of people ate or possibly ate raw onions or dishes likely containing raw onions before they became sick,” the CDC said in a statement. Also read | World's largest triceratops, 'Big John,' fetches nearly $8 million in auction “Several ill people reported eating at the same restaurants, indicating they may be part of illness clusters.” According to the FDA, most people with salmonellosis develop diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. More severe cases of salmonellosis may include a high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, blood in the urine or stool, and in some cases may become fatal. Also read | Court rules Pablo Escobar's cocaine hippos are legally people The US agency urged restaurants, retailers and consumers not to eat, sell or serve red, yellow, and white onions supplied by ProSource Inc that were imported from the State of Chihuahua, Mexico from July 1, 2021 through August 27, 2021, or products containing such onions. ProSource has agreed to voluntarily recall all onions it imported from Chihuahua from July 1 through Aug. 27, Frank Yiannas, the Food and Drug Administration's deputy commissioner for food policy and response, said in a statement. The FDA has launched an investigation, along with the CDC and local authorities, Yiannas said. “We are issuing this update early in our investigation as part of our continued commitment to transparency and early communication. We will provide updates as we learn more,” Yiannas said. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 600 in US fall sick due to salmonella outbreak linked to onion imports from Mexico

Nearly two days after the crucial OPEC plus meet, global oil prices have risen to multi-year high levels while U.S. oil prices rose for a fifth day today, the highest since 2014.

US oil rises to highest since 2014

When a powerful Democratic Senate chairman assembled his Special Committee on Aging to confront what he called a “crisis of affordability” for prescription drugs, he proposed a novel solution: allow the government to negotiate better deals for critical medications.

The year was 1989, and the idea from that chairman, former Sen. David Pryor of Arkansas, touched off a drive for government drug-price negotiations that has been embraced by two generations of Democrats and one Republican president, Donald Trump — but now appears at risk of being left out of a sprawling domestic policy bill taking shape in Congress.

Senior Democrats insist that they have not given up the push to grant Medicare broad powers to negotiate lower drug prices as part of a once-ambitious climate change and social safety net bill that is slowly shrinking in scope. They know that the loss of the provision, promoted by President Joe Biden on the campaign trail and in the White House, could be a particularly embarrassing defeat for the package, since it has been central to Democratic congressional campaigns for nearly three decades.

“Senate Democrats understand that after all the pledges, you’ve got to deliver,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the chairman of the Finance Committee.

“It’s not dead,” declared Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., the chairman of the Ways and Means Committee.

But with at least three House Democrats opposing the toughest version of the measure, and at least one Senate Democrat, Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, against it, government negotiating power appears almost certain to be curtailed, if not jettisoned. The loss would be akin to Republicans’ failure under Trump to repeal the Affordable Care Act, after solemn pledges for eight years to dismantle the health law “root and branch.”

And after so many campaign-trail promises, Democrats could be left next year with a lot of explaining to do.

“It would mean that the pharmaceutical industry, which has 1,500 paid lobbyists, the pharmaceutical industry, which made $50 billion in profits last year, the pharmaceutical industry, which pays its executives huge compensation packages, and which is spending hundreds of millions of dollars to defeat this legislation, will have won,” Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., the Budget Committee chairman, said Wednesday. “And I intend to not allow that to happen.”

It is not clear how Sanders can pull that off. The length of the fight speaks to the durability and popularity of the issue, but also the power of the pharmaceutical industry.

Pryor teed it up in the late 1980s, hoping to muscle through lower prices for Medicaid, with an eye on the bigger prize, Medicare. President Bill Clinton included government price negotiations in his universal health care plan in 1993, and throughout the 1990s, as Democrats pressed to add a prescription drug benefit for Medicare, government negotiations were central to holding the cost down.

Then in 2003, a Republican Congress and president, George W. Bush, secured passage of that drug benefit — but with an explicit prohibition on the government negotiating the price of medicines older Americans would purchase.

Repealing that so-called noninterference provision has been a centerpiece of Democratic campaigns ever since. Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, a former head of House Democrats’ campaign arm, recalled that “Medicare shall negotiate drug prices” was one of the six planks in the “Six for ’06” platform that helped the Democrats win control of the House in 2006.

It has passed the House numerous times, including in 2019 with yes votes from the three House members now opposing it — Reps. Kathleen Rice of New York, Scott Peters of California and Kurt Schrader of Oregon — only to die in the Senate. Even Trump adopted the effort in his 2016 campaign, only to see it go nowhere.

That futility is why Schrader said he opposed it: “Why do the same thing again and again and expect to have a different result?” he asked.

To proponents, defeat after defeat speaks solely to the power of the pharmaceutical industry and its attendant lobbyists.

But opponents say it reflects the complexity of the issue. Once lawmakers realize they could actually secure government price negotiations, they see how problematic that could be.

“If anyone thinks this is the easy political route for me, that’s just laughable,” said Peters, who has endured scorn and pressure from his Democratic colleagues but whose San Diego district includes almost 1,000 biotechnology companies and 68,000 jobs directly tied to pharmaceutical work.

Schrader and Peters said the House version of prescription drug price controls, tucked into the broader social policy legislation, would stifle innovation in one of the country’s most profitable global industries.

The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, known as PhRMA, also maintains that government negotiations would severely limit the types of prescription drugs that would be available to Medicare beneficiaries as companies withdraw their products from the program. With the goodwill the industry has accrued with its coronavirus vaccines and treatments, drug companies have pressed their case with key lawmakers, and roped in the larger business community.

American Action Network, a conservative group with business money, unveiled a new set of ads Wednesday targeting vulnerable Democrats such as Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux of Georgia and decrying “another socialist health care plan to control what medicines you can get.”

“We are taking on the greed and the corruption of the pharmaceutical industry — I know their power, believe me, I know their power,” Sanders said. “But this is a fight we’ve got to win.”

Wyden insisted that any legislative effort to tackle rising drug costs must include government negotiating power, but alternatives are emerging.

Some simpler solutions would change the formula of the existing Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs, especially in the event of a catastrophic health event.

Wyden is also pressing to enact legislation he drafted with Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, that would force drugmakers to offer rebates to consumers on products whose prices rise faster than inflation. Grassley said he still supports the measure, as does Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., a traditional ally of the pharmaceutical industry in his state.

Schrader and Peters said negotiations were progressing around their proposal, which would grant the government power to negotiate prices under Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient services and some of the most costly medications, once outpatient drugs like chemotherapy have outlived their patent exclusivity.

Their bill would also force rebates for drug prices rising faster than inflation, and limit out-of-pocket medication expenses for older Americans. That is projected to save the government $300 billion over 10 years, about half what the broader measure would save.

“Frankly, based on discussions we’ve had with the White House, senators and other members in our party, this could get done,” Schrader said. “That’d be huge.”

Ultimately, if any significant price controls survive, it will be the logic of the policy overcoming the power over the lobby, said Rep. Ron Kind, D-Wis., whose district is being hit with pharmaceutical industry advertising. Kind, an influential centrist, said he has been speaking with like-minded Democrats, trying to buck them up against the onslaught.

“Obviously, there’s some advertising,” he said. “But boy, public sentiment is overwhelming. They just don’t understand why the pharmaceutical industry is the only private industry the federal government’s refused to even discuss prices with.”

When a powerful Democratic Senate chairman assembled his Special Committee on Aging to confront what he called a “crisis of affordability” for prescription drugs, he proposed a novel solution: allow the government to negotiate better deals for critical medications.

When a powerful Democratic Senate chairman assembled his Special Committee on Aging to confront what he called a “crisis of affordability” for prescription drugs, he proposed a novel solution: allow the government to negotiate better deals for critical medications. The year was 1989, and the idea from that chairman, former Sen. David Pryor of Arkansas, touched off a drive for government drug-price negotiations that has been embraced by two generations of Democrats and one Republican president, Donald Trump — but now appears at risk of being left out of a sprawling domestic policy bill taking shape in Congress. Senior Democrats insist that they have not given up the push to grant Medicare broad powers to negotiate lower drug prices as part of a once-ambitious climate change and social safety net bill that is slowly shrinking in scope. They know that the loss of the provision, promoted by President Joe Biden on the campaign trail and in the White House, could be a particularly embarrassing defeat for the package, since it has been central to Democratic congressional campaigns for nearly three decades. “Senate Democrats understand that after all the pledges, you’ve got to deliver,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the chairman of the Finance Committee. “It’s not dead,” declared Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., the chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. But with at least three House Democrats opposing the toughest version of the measure, and at least one Senate Democrat, Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, against it, government negotiating power appears almost certain to be curtailed, if not jettisoned. The loss would be akin to Republicans’ failure under Trump to repeal the Affordable Care Act, after solemn pledges for eight years to dismantle the health law “root and branch.” And after so many campaign-trail promises, Democrats could be left next year with a lot of explaining to do. “It would mean that the pharmaceutical industry, which has 1,500 paid lobbyists, the pharmaceutical industry, which made $50 billion in profits last year, the pharmaceutical industry, which pays its executives huge compensation packages, and which is spending hundreds of millions of dollars to defeat this legislation, will have won,” Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., the Budget Committee chairman, said Wednesday. “And I intend to not allow that to happen.” It is not clear how Sanders can pull that off. The length of the fight speaks to the durability and popularity of the issue, but also the power of the pharmaceutical industry. Pryor teed it up in the late 1980s, hoping to muscle through lower prices for Medicaid, with an eye on the bigger prize, Medicare. President Bill Clinton included government price negotiations in his universal health care plan in 1993, and throughout the 1990s, as Democrats pressed to add a prescription drug benefit for Medicare, government negotiations were central to holding the cost down. Then in 2003, a Republican Congress and president, George W. Bush, secured passage of that drug benefit — but with an explicit prohibition on the government negotiating the price of medicines older Americans would purchase. Repealing that so-called noninterference provision has been a centerpiece of Democratic campaigns ever since. Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, a former head of House Democrats’ campaign arm, recalled that “Medicare shall negotiate drug prices” was one of the six planks in the “Six for ’06” platform that helped the Democrats win control of the House in 2006. It has passed the House numerous times, including in 2019 with yes votes from the three House members now opposing it — Reps. Kathleen Rice of New York, Scott Peters of California and Kurt Schrader of Oregon — only to die in the Senate. Even Trump adopted the effort in his 2016 campaign, only to see it go nowhere. That futility is why Schrader said he opposed it: “Why do the same thing again and again and expect to have a different result?” he asked. To proponents, defeat after defeat speaks solely to the power of the pharmaceutical industry and its attendant lobbyists. But opponents say it reflects the complexity of the issue. Once lawmakers realize they could actually secure government price negotiations, they see how problematic that could be. “If anyone thinks this is the easy political route for me, that’s just laughable,” said Peters, who has endured scorn and pressure from his Democratic colleagues but whose San Diego district includes almost 1,000 biotechnology companies and 68,000 jobs directly tied to pharmaceutical work. Schrader and Peters said the House version of prescription drug price controls, tucked into the broader social policy legislation, would stifle innovation in one of the country’s most profitable global industries. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, known as PhRMA, also maintains that government negotiations would severely limit the types of prescription drugs that would be available to Medicare beneficiaries as companies withdraw their products from the program. With the goodwill the industry has accrued with its coronavirus vaccines and treatments, drug companies have pressed their case with key lawmakers, and roped in the larger business community. American Action Network, a conservative group with business money, unveiled a new set of ads Wednesday targeting vulnerable Democrats such as Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux of Georgia and decrying “another socialist health care plan to control what medicines you can get.” “We are taking on the greed and the corruption of the pharmaceutical industry — I know their power, believe me, I know their power,” Sanders said. “But this is a fight we’ve got to win.” Wyden insisted that any legislative effort to tackle rising drug costs must include government negotiating power, but alternatives are emerging. Some simpler solutions would change the formula of the existing Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs, especially in the event of a catastrophic health event. Wyden is also pressing to enact legislation he drafted with Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, that would force drugmakers to offer rebates to consumers on products whose prices rise faster than inflation. Grassley said he still supports the measure, as does Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., a traditional ally of the pharmaceutical industry in his state. Schrader and Peters said negotiations were progressing around their proposal, which would grant the government power to negotiate prices under Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient services and some of the most costly medications, once outpatient drugs like chemotherapy have outlived their patent exclusivity. Their bill would also force rebates for drug prices rising faster than inflation, and limit out-of-pocket medication expenses for older Americans. That is projected to save the government $300 billion over 10 years, about half what the broader measure would save. “Frankly, based on discussions we’ve had with the White House, senators and other members in our party, this could get done,” Schrader said. “That’d be huge.” Ultimately, if any significant price controls survive, it will be the logic of the policy overcoming the power over the lobby, said Rep. Ron Kind, D-Wis., whose district is being hit with pharmaceutical industry advertising. Kind, an influential centrist, said he has been speaking with like-minded Democrats, trying to buck them up against the onslaught. “Obviously, there’s some advertising,” he said. “But boy, public sentiment is overwhelming. They just don’t understand why the pharmaceutical industry is the only private industry the federal government’s refused to even discuss prices with.”

A 30-Year campaign to control drug prices faces yet another failure

Ten months since being banned by social medial companies following the January 6 Capitol Hill riots, former US president Donald Trump has now decided to launch his own social networking platform called “TRUTH Social.”

The platform will be owned by Trump Media &amp; Technology Group (TMTG), which also intends to launch a subscription video on demand service that will feature “non-woke” entertainment programming, the group said in a statement.

“I am excited to send out my first TRUTH on TRUTH Social very soon. TMTG was founded with a mission to give a voice to all,” Trump said in a statement on Wednesday.

Trump said that Truth Social would “stand up to the tyranny of Big Tech”. The platform will be available through an app on the Apple Store as a beta version for trial by “invited guests” in November and the company expects a full rollout in the first quarter of 2022.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-poll-shows-80-republicans-want-donald-trump-to-run-422257">US election 2024: Poll shows 80% Republicans want Donald Trump to run</a>

“We live in a world where the Taliban has a huge presence on Twitter, yet your favourite American President has been silenced. This is unacceptable,” he continued.&nbsp;

The Trump Media &amp; Technology Group will merge with blank check company Digital Acquisition Corp to make TMTG a publicly-listed company, the statement said.&nbsp;

“The transaction values Trump Media &amp; Technology Group at an initial enterprise value of $875 Million, with a potential additional earnout of $825 Million in additional shares (at the valuation they are granted) for a cumulative valuation of up to $1.7 Billion depending on the performance of the stock price post-business combination,” it stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-riot-us-committee-votes-to-hold-criminal-contempt-charge-against-trumps-ex-aide-steve-bannon-422167">Capitol riot: US committee votes to hold criminal contempt charge against Trump’s ex-aide Steve Bannon</a>

Trump was banned from the many social media platforms— Twitter, Facebook and YouTube— after his supporters stormed the Capitol earlier this year—over concerns that he might further incite the mob with his continued presence on social media.

YouTube said its ban would be lifted after the “risk of violence” decreases, Facebook said Trump could come back to the platform at the soonest in 2023 and Twitter said its ban would be permanent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sues-us-committee-investigating-jan-6-capitol-hill-riots-to-block-release-of-white-house-records-421934">Trump sues US committee investigating Jan 6 Capitol Hill riots to block release of White House records</a>

Since then, Trump has been trying to reclaim his space on social networking sites.

In May he launched a blog called “From the Desk of Donald J. Trump,” which was touted as a major new outlet.

But Trump, who was also banned from Instagram, and Snapchat, cancelled the blog just a month later.&nbsp;

He has been communicating&nbsp; through a constant stream of press releases with tweet-like statements to the media and supporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ten months since being banned by social medial companies following the January 6 Capitol Hill riots, former US president Donald Trump has now decided to launch his own social networking platform called “TRUTH Social.

Ten months since being banned by social medial companies following the January 6 Capitol Hill riots, former US president Donald Trump has now decided to launch his own social networking platform called “TRUTH Social.” The platform will be owned by Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG), which also intends to launch a subscription video on demand service that will feature “non-woke” entertainment programming, the group said in a statement. “I am excited to send out my first TRUTH on TRUTH Social very soon. TMTG was founded with a mission to give a voice to all,” Trump said in a statement on Wednesday. Trump said that Truth Social would “stand up to the tyranny of Big Tech”. The platform will be available through an app on the Apple Store as a beta version for trial by “invited guests” in November and the company expects a full rollout in the first quarter of 2022. Also read | US election 2024: Poll shows 80% Republicans want Donald Trump to run “We live in a world where the Taliban has a huge presence on Twitter, yet your favourite American President has been silenced. This is unacceptable,” he continued. The Trump Media & Technology Group will merge with blank check company Digital Acquisition Corp to make TMTG a publicly-listed company, the statement said. “The transaction values Trump Media & Technology Group at an initial enterprise value of $875 Million, with a potential additional earnout of $825 Million in additional shares (at the valuation they are granted) for a cumulative valuation of up to $1.7 Billion depending on the performance of the stock price post-business combination,” it stated. Also read | Capitol riot: US committee votes to hold criminal contempt charge against Trump’s ex-aide Steve Bannon Trump was banned from the many social media platforms— Twitter, Facebook and YouTube— after his supporters stormed the Capitol earlier this year—over concerns that he might further incite the mob with his continued presence on social media. YouTube said its ban would be lifted after the “risk of violence” decreases, Facebook said Trump could come back to the platform at the soonest in 2023 and Twitter said its ban would be permanent. Also read | Trump sues US committee investigating Jan 6 Capitol Hill riots to block release of White House records Since then, Trump has been trying to reclaim his space on social networking sites. In May he launched a blog called “From the Desk of Donald J. Trump,” which was touted as a major new outlet. But Trump, who was also banned from Instagram, and Snapchat, cancelled the blog just a month later. He has been communicating through a constant stream of press releases with tweet-like statements to the media and supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump, banned on Twitter and FB, to launch his own social network

Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Home Minister of Taliban's interim government has been seen with either his face covered or secured in public photographs, which raises the question that what is he afraid of?

Is the US looking to capture or kill Sirajuddin Haqqani?

Troika plus meeting in Moscow on the Afghanistan situation has been concluded. According to a Russian foreign ministry statement, Russia, China and Pakistan have agreed to provide humanitarian aid and economic support to Afghanistan.

Troika plus meeting: Russia, China and Pak agree to give aid for Afghanistan

An armed gang is seeking a $17 million ransom for a group of American and Canadian missionaries kidnapped in Haiti last week.

According to Haitian Justice Minister Liszt Quitel, the renowned 400 Mawozo gangs is demanding $1 million for each captive. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-haitis-pm-driven-out-from-official-ceremony-after-armed-gangs-shoot-in-the-air-421996">Watch: Haiti's PM driven out from official ceremony after armed gangs shoot in the air</a>

The Mawozo gang dominates the Ganthier commune in the eastern outskirts of the country's capital, Port-au-Prince, where a party of 16 Americans and one Canadian were abducted on Saturday while on their way to visit an orphanage.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>According to the Human Rights Analysis and Research Center, a Haitian nonprofit organisation, at least 628 kidnappings have occurred since January, with 29 of the victims being foreign nationals. The number of occurrences increased by 300 per cent in September compared to July.</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=According to the Human Rights Analysis and Research Center, a Haitian nonprofit organisation, at least 628 kidnappings have occurred since January, with 29 of the victims being foreign nationals. The number of occurrences increased by 300 per cent in September compared to July. " target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

The hostages range in age from 8 months to 15 years old, according to Christian Aid Ministries, the charity that sponsors the missionaries' activities in Haiti.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/haiti-criminal-gang-kidnap-the-us-canadian-missionaries-group-421927/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The adults in the group range in age from 18 to 48 years old.

Earlier in the day, White House press secretary Jen Psaki stated that the FBI was part of a concerted US government operation to bring Americans to safety.

According to a source close to the Biden administration, the agents landed in Haiti the day before to help the State Department in securing the missionaries' release.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that "We will do everything we can to help resolve the situation and we have in the administration been relentlessly focused on this."

In April, 400 Mawozo abducted and detained 10 people, including two French clergymen, for 20 days in the same location.

In August, the United States issued a red warning for Haiti, advising Americans not to go to the Caribbean country due to rampant abduction, crime, and civil instability.

Kidnappings in Haiti have more than quadrupled in the last year, as gangs become more numerous and strong, leaving an already understaffed police force unable to cope.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An armed gang is seeking a $17 million ransom for a group of American and Canadian missionaries kidnapped in Haiti last week. According to Haitian Justice Minister Liszt Quitel, the renowned 400 Mawozo gangs is demanding $1 million for each captive.

An armed gang is seeking a $17 million ransom for a group of American and Canadian missionaries kidnapped in Haiti last week. According to Haitian Justice Minister Liszt Quitel, the renowned 400 Mawozo gangs is demanding $1 million for each captive. Watch: Haiti's PM driven out from official ceremony after armed gangs shoot in the air The Mawozo gang dominates the Ganthier commune in the eastern outskirts of the country's capital, Port-au-Prince, where a party of 16 Americans and one Canadian were abducted on Saturday while on their way to visit an orphanage. According to the Human Rights Analysis and Research Center, a Haitian nonprofit organisation, at least 628 kidnappings have occurred since January, with 29 of the victims being foreign nationals. The number of occurrences increased by 300 per cent in September compared to July. × The hostages range in age from 8 months to 15 years old, according to Christian Aid Ministries, the charity that sponsors the missionaries' activities in Haiti. Watch: The adults in the group range in age from 18 to 48 years old. Earlier in the day, White House press secretary Jen Psaki stated that the FBI was part of a concerted US government operation to bring Americans to safety. According to a source close to the Biden administration, the agents landed in Haiti the day before to help the State Department in securing the missionaries' release. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that "We will do everything we can to help resolve the situation and we have in the administration been relentlessly focused on this." In April, 400 Mawozo abducted and detained 10 people, including two French clergymen, for 20 days in the same location. In August, the United States issued a red warning for Haiti, advising Americans not to go to the Caribbean country due to rampant abduction, crime, and civil instability. Kidnappings in Haiti have more than quadrupled in the last year, as gangs become more numerous and strong, leaving an already understaffed police force unable to cope. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti gang demands $17 million ransom for kidnapped missionaries and children

As a growing number of states, cities and private companies start to enforce mandates for inoculation against COVID-19, thousands of unvaccinated workers across the United States are facing potential job losses.

US: Workers face job losses as vaccine mandates kick in

&nbsp;A bankruptcy court in New York has dismissed a petition of Indian fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi and his associates, seeking dismissal of fraud allegations against them.

The allegations were made by Richard Levin, the court appointed trustee of three US corporations--Firestar Diamond, Fantasy Inc and A Jaffe--indirectly owned by Nirav Modi previously.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pandora-papers-how-nirav-modis-sister-purvi-opened-a-firm-in-british-virgin-islands-418099">Pandora papers: How Nirav Modi's sister Purvi opened a firm in British Virgin Islands</a>

Levin had also sought a minimum compensation of USD 15 million for harm&nbsp;suffered by the debtors of Modi and his associates Mihir Bhansali and Ajay Gandhi.

Southern District of New York Bankruptcy Court Judge Sean H Lane issued the order last Friday, in a major blow to the Indian fugitive and his accomplices.&nbsp;

SDNY Bankruptcy Court Judge Lane in a clear decision denied defendants Modi, Bansali and Gandhi's motions to dismiss US Trustee Richard Levin's amended complaint in the adversary proceeding arising out of Modi's initial chapter 11 bankruptcy petition, alleging fraud, breach of fiduciary duties, RICO and related state law claims,&nbsp;Indian American attorney Ravi Batra told PTI.

Explaining the 60-page order, Batra said Modi ploughed his profits back into his own company as additional sales to falsely raise the stock price/company valuation by setting up a scheme to defraud Punjab National Bank and others of over USD1 billion.

But to get the ill-gotten funds by bank fraud out of his companies, he engaged in a separate fraud to hide those withdrawals for personal benefit as if they were ordinary business transactions, Batra said.

According to the court order, Levin's petition sought to recover damages for harm inflicted by Modi and his two accomplishes on the debtors and their estates as a result of the his six-year extensive international fraud, money laundering and embezzlement scheme.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-concerned-as-china-denies-it-conducted-hypersonic-missile-test-421873">US 'concerned' as China denies it conducted hypersonic missile test</a>

It said from early 2011 to early 2018, Modi and his associates orchestrated and carried out a scheme to obtain loans, credits, or other funds under false pretences and without collateral? from numerous banks, including the PNB.

The bank fraud involved the use of letters of undertaking (LoUs), a financial instrument unique to India, designed to facilitate efficient import transactions. Modi and the co-conspirators sought to artificially inflate the import volumes of Modi's India-based companies with sham transactions so as to obtain more LoU funding, it alleged.

To carry out this scheme, Modi and his co-conspirators used a web of shell companies known as shadow entities&nbsp;based in Hong Kong and Dubai that posed as legitimate businesses to create fake import transactions and launder the proceeds, it said.

The PNB and the other defrauded banks are reported to have lost in excess of USD1 billion as a result of the fraud, the judge wrote in his order.

In his petition, Levin listed examples how Modi, Bhansali and Gandhi directly benefited from fraudulently issued LoUs and were involved in circular transactions until early 2013, when the debtors no longer directly participated in import and export transactions underlying LoU issuances and instead received proceeds indirectly through the shadow entities.

A bankruptcy court in New York has dismissed a petition of Indian fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi and his associates, seeking dismissal of fraud allegations against them.

A bankruptcy court in New York has dismissed a petition of Indian fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi and his associates, seeking dismissal of fraud allegations against them. The allegations were made by Richard Levin, the court appointed trustee of three US corporations--Firestar Diamond, Fantasy Inc and A Jaffe--indirectly owned by Nirav Modi previously. Also Read | Pandora papers: How Nirav Modi's sister Purvi opened a firm in British Virgin Islands Levin had also sought a minimum compensation of USD 15 million for harm suffered by the debtors of Modi and his associates Mihir Bhansali and Ajay Gandhi. Southern District of New York Bankruptcy Court Judge Sean H Lane issued the order last Friday, in a major blow to the Indian fugitive and his accomplices. SDNY Bankruptcy Court Judge Lane in a clear decision denied defendants Modi, Bansali and Gandhi's motions to dismiss US Trustee Richard Levin's amended complaint in the adversary proceeding arising out of Modi's initial chapter 11 bankruptcy petition, alleging fraud, breach of fiduciary duties, RICO and related state law claims, Indian American attorney Ravi Batra told PTI. Explaining the 60-page order, Batra said Modi ploughed his profits back into his own company as additional sales to falsely raise the stock price/company valuation by setting up a scheme to defraud Punjab National Bank and others of over USD1 billion. But to get the ill-gotten funds by bank fraud out of his companies, he engaged in a separate fraud to hide those withdrawals for personal benefit as if they were ordinary business transactions, Batra said. According to the court order, Levin's petition sought to recover damages for harm inflicted by Modi and his two accomplishes on the debtors and their estates as a result of the his six-year extensive international fraud, money laundering and embezzlement scheme. Also Read | US 'concerned' as China denies it conducted hypersonic missile test It said from early 2011 to early 2018, Modi and his associates orchestrated and carried out a scheme to obtain loans, credits, or other funds under false pretences and without collateral? from numerous banks, including the PNB. The bank fraud involved the use of letters of undertaking (LoUs), a financial instrument unique to India, designed to facilitate efficient import transactions. Modi and the co-conspirators sought to artificially inflate the import volumes of Modi's India-based companies with sham transactions so as to obtain more LoU funding, it alleged. To carry out this scheme, Modi and his co-conspirators used a web of shell companies known as shadow entities based in Hong Kong and Dubai that posed as legitimate businesses to create fake import transactions and launder the proceeds, it said. The PNB and the other defrauded banks are reported to have lost in excess of USD1 billion as a result of the fraud, the judge wrote in his order. In his petition, Levin listed examples how Modi, Bhansali and Gandhi directly benefited from fraudulently issued LoUs and were involved in circular transactions until early 2013, when the debtors no longer directly participated in import and export transactions underlying LoU issuances and instead received proceeds indirectly through the shadow entities.

US court dismisses plea filed by Indian fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, associates

us-1

Us, News on Us, stories on Us, articles on Us, Us stories at Wion, Us news, Us latest news

us 1