The stakes are high for the 2022 midterm elections and the Democrats have now taken a defensive stance. US President Joe Biden is spending a bulk of his time trying to woe California, Illinois and New Mexico as well as the battleground state of Pennsylvania.

US midterm elections on November 8: 'We've got more to do,' says US President Joe Biden

President Joe Biden is vowing to free Iran. Biden said that the protesters working against the Iran government could soon succeed in freeing themselves. Watch the video to see what the US President has to say.

US President Joe Biden says, 'Don't worry, we are gonna free Iran'

US Midterm Elections: Joe Biden campaigns in New Mexico, says 'We have got more to do'

Even as many of China's rich citizens are planning to leave the country, structural biologist Niegn Yan is planning to leave the U.S. and go back to China. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | China's 'Goddess Scientist' to return home

U.S. voters are weighing in on heavy issues this election. Absentee voting started weeks ago and concludes in person on November 8. From inflation to abortion rights, to border security and crime, concerns about the country’s direction will motivate voters to either keep Democrats in power or give Republicans a chance to control both the U.S. Senate and House. VOA’s Congressional Correspondent Katherine Gypson has more from the voters.

WION-VOA Co-Production: Countdown to US Midterm Elections

Climate change diplomacy between China and the United States cannot be separated from broader political tensions between the two sides, and Washington must take responsibility for the breakdown in talks, says China’s foreign ministry.

China: US must take responsibility for breakdown in climate ties

Black people, who have overwhelmingly voted Democrat, will likely play a significant role in several battleground states when the final votes are tallied on Election Day.

Who will Black voters support in the 2022 US midterm elections?

The Powerball jackpot hits 1.5 billion for the Saturday drawing. See this report to know more about the biggest lottery event in the U.S.

U.S Powerball on a roll

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said Tehran continues to plan a response to the killing the of a top general in 2020 by the US. This comes after Saudi Arabia told US authorities that Iran may attack the kingdom.

Gravitas: Iran's Supreme Leader seeks "revenge" from the US

On Friday, the South Korean military said that overnight North Korea fired at least 80 artillery rounds into the maritime border zone, reported Reuters. This comes after the United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and Washington reiterated their “ironclad” alliance with Seoul.&nbsp;

According to the report, shortly before midnight on Thursday (local time), the South Korean military detected more than 80 artillery rounds fired into the sea by North Korea which they said is in violation of the 2018 inter-Korean agreement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-nuclear-attack-on-us-or-allies-would-result-in-the-end-of-the-kim-regime-531031">Pentagon: Nuclear attack on US or allies would ‘result in the end of the Kim regime’</a>

This comes after Pyongyang fired around 100 artillery rounds on Wednesday. The South Korean Ministry of Defence also issued a warning to North Korea about the firing, they said in a statement. Meanwhile, the defence ministers of the US and South Korea spoke about bolstering their alliance in light of repeated provocations by North Korea, in&nbsp;Washington.&nbsp;

The tensions have escalated recently between the two countries after North Korea fired a record number of missiles this year, including 23 on Wednesday alone. Furthermore, Washington and Seoul, also announced their decision to extend their air force exercise which will now go on from Monday to Friday, “with respect to the North’s recent provocations,” said Austin.

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-koreans-woke-up-to-loud-air-raid-sirens-after-north-korea-fires-missiles-530449">South Koreans woke up to loud air raid sirens, after North Korea fires missiles</a>

On the other hand, on Thursday, Pak Jong-chon, a North Korean military officer and member of the Central Committee of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, condemned the drills by the US and South Korea. He said that they have made “a terrible mistake” by extending the exercises which “cannot be reversed,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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On Friday, the South Korean military said that overnight North Korea fired at least 80 artillery rounds into the maritime border zone, reported Reuters. This comes after the United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and Washington reiterated their “ironclad” alliance with Seoul.

On Friday, the South Korean military said that overnight North Korea fired at least 80 artillery rounds into the maritime border zone, reported Reuters. This comes after the United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and Washington reiterated their “ironclad” alliance with Seoul. According to the report, shortly before midnight on Thursday (local time), the South Korean military detected more than 80 artillery rounds fired into the sea by North Korea which they said is in violation of the 2018 inter-Korean agreement. ALSO READ: Pentagon: Nuclear attack on US or allies would ‘result in the end of the Kim regime’ This comes after Pyongyang fired around 100 artillery rounds on Wednesday. The South Korean Ministry of Defence also issued a warning to North Korea about the firing, they said in a statement. Meanwhile, the defence ministers of the US and South Korea spoke about bolstering their alliance in light of repeated provocations by North Korea, in Washington. The tensions have escalated recently between the two countries after North Korea fired a record number of missiles this year, including 23 on Wednesday alone. Furthermore, Washington and Seoul, also announced their decision to extend their air force exercise which will now go on from Monday to Friday, “with respect to the North’s recent provocations,” said Austin. ALSO WATCH: South Koreans woke up to loud air raid sirens, after North Korea fires missiles On the other hand, on Thursday, Pak Jong-chon, a North Korean military officer and member of the Central Committee of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, condemned the drills by the US and South Korea. He said that they have made “a terrible mistake” by extending the exercises which “cannot be reversed,” reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea fired at least 80 artillery rounds into the sea, says South Korea

Since Elon Musk's Twitter takeover, the employees in the company have been kept in the dark. There is fear and red spread across Twitter's headquarters in San Francisco regarding the job cuts.

Chaos and confusion reign ahead of Twitter layoffs, 7500 employees fear job cut

Under a new joint initiative announced in June, Taiwan and the United States will hold in-person talks on trade next week. In New York, the program is vehemently being opposed by China which views the self-governed island nation of Taiwan as a part of its own territory.

US: Conceptual discussions to take place, 11 trade areas to be discussed

On Thursday, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and released a joint communique which said that any nuclear attack against Washington or its allies would “result in the end of the Kim regime.” This comes after a number of missile tests conducted by the North Korean government over the last two days.&nbsp;

In a joint communique released by the Defense Department, Austin said, “Any nuclear attack against the United States or its Allies and partners, including the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-ballistic-missiles-over-japan-residents-told-to-seek-shelter-530700">North Korea fires multiple missiles near Japan, residents told to seek shelter</a>&nbsp;

This comes hours after the South Korean military said that Pyongyang tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, which may have failed. Subsequently, North Korea also fired two short-range missiles from near their capital city Pyongyang, the incident raised alarm in Japan and triggered evacuation warnings as the missile flew near two parts of the country.&nbsp;

The Secretary of Defence also addressed the press after the meeting and raised concerns about the recent missile launches by the Kim Jong-un government and said that these tests are “destabilizing to the region,” and reiterated its “ironclad” alliance with South Korea. This comes after North Korea’s “continued provocations” after a multi-day barrage of missile launches.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-north-korea-fires-highest-number-of-missiles-in-a-day-530671">Gravitas: North Korea fires highest number of missiles in a day</a>

Furthermore, hours after the latest test on Thursday, the US and South Korea announced that they would extend their air force exercise which will go on from Monday to Friday, “with respect to the North’s recent provocations,” said Austin. Notably, on Wednesday, North Korea also fired an unprecedented number of 23 missiles in a single day during the ongoing air force exercises between the US and South Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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On Thursday, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and released a joint communique which said that any nuclear attack against Washington or its allies would “result in the end of the Kim regime.

On Thursday, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-sup and released a joint communique which said that any nuclear attack against Washington or its allies would “result in the end of the Kim regime.” This comes after a number of missile tests conducted by the North Korean government over the last two days. In a joint communique released by the Defense Department, Austin said, “Any nuclear attack against the United States or its Allies and partners, including the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime.” ALSO READ: North Korea fires multiple missiles near Japan, residents told to seek shelter This comes hours after the South Korean military said that Pyongyang tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, which may have failed. Subsequently, North Korea also fired two short-range missiles from near their capital city Pyongyang, the incident raised alarm in Japan and triggered evacuation warnings as the missile flew near two parts of the country. The Secretary of Defence also addressed the press after the meeting and raised concerns about the recent missile launches by the Kim Jong-un government and said that these tests are “destabilizing to the region,” and reiterated its “ironclad” alliance with South Korea. This comes after North Korea’s “continued provocations” after a multi-day barrage of missile launches. ALSO WATCH: Gravitas: North Korea fires highest number of missiles in a day Furthermore, hours after the latest test on Thursday, the US and South Korea announced that they would extend their air force exercise which will go on from Monday to Friday, “with respect to the North’s recent provocations,” said Austin. Notably, on Wednesday, North Korea also fired an unprecedented number of 23 missiles in a single day during the ongoing air force exercises between the US and South Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pentagon: Nuclear attack on US or allies would ‘result in the end of the Kim regime’

The United States on Wednesday (November 2) announced that it will work to oust Iran from the UN's top organisation fighting for gender equality amid recent violence in the country.&nbsp;

Kamala Harris, the US Vice President made the announcement that no country that violates women's rights should hold a position in the UN or any other international organisation that defends the same right. She said that Iran does not qualify to serve on the board. Harris in her statement said, "Iran&nbsp;has demonstrated through its denial of women's rights and brutal crackdown on its own people that it is unfit to serve on this Commission."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-students-tear-down-gender-segregation-barrier-during-protests-530409">Also read |&nbsp;WATCH | Iranian students tear down gender segregation barrier during protests</a>

Violence in Iran broke out a month back when a 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini died. Amini's&nbsp;death sparked waves of worldwide demonstrations.&nbsp; Amini was reportedly imprisoned for disobeying Iran's dress regulations.&nbsp;

US ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that Iran being a&nbsp;member is an ugly stain on the commission's credibility. She&nbsp;added that the US firmly backs her demand for an impartial, global inquiry to hold Iranian officials accountable for the bloodshed.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | US concerned about possible Iranian attack on Saudi Arabia

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She further added that though Iran's systemic oppression of women is nothing new, the crimes committed by the regime have come to the light due to the bravery of the Iranian people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-attack-the-kingdom-says-saudi-in-an-intelligence-report-shared-with-the-us-530482">Also read |&nbsp;'Iran may attack the kingdom,' says Saudi in an intelligence report shared with the US</a>

Iran's UN ambassador, Amir Saied Iravani in a UNSC meeting said that the US is engaging in a disinformation campaign while engaging in hypocrisy and meddling with Iran's international affairs.&nbsp;

He asserted that Iran has always been and is still dedicated to the advancement and defence&nbsp;of human rights.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States on Wednesday (November 2) announced that it will work to oust Iran from the UN's top organisation fighting for gender equality amid recent violence in the country.

The United States on Wednesday (November 2) announced that it will work to oust Iran from the UN's top organisation fighting for gender equality amid recent violence in the country. Kamala Harris, the US Vice President made the announcement that no country that violates women's rights should hold a position in the UN or any other international organisation that defends the same right. She said that Iran does not qualify to serve on the board. Harris in her statement said, "Iran has demonstrated through its denial of women's rights and brutal crackdown on its own people that it is unfit to serve on this Commission." Also read | WATCH | Iranian students tear down gender segregation barrier during protests Violence in Iran broke out a month back when a 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini died. Amini's death sparked waves of worldwide demonstrations. Amini was reportedly imprisoned for disobeying Iran's dress regulations. US ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that Iran being a member is an ugly stain on the commission's credibility. She added that the US firmly backs her demand for an impartial, global inquiry to hold Iranian officials accountable for the bloodshed. Watch | WION Fineprint | US concerned about possible Iranian attack on Saudi Arabia She further added that though Iran's systemic oppression of women is nothing new, the crimes committed by the regime have come to the light due to the bravery of the Iranian people. Also read | 'Iran may attack the kingdom,' says Saudi in an intelligence report shared with the US Iran's UN ambassador, Amir Saied Iravani in a UNSC meeting said that the US is engaging in a disinformation campaign while engaging in hypocrisy and meddling with Iran's international affairs. He asserted that Iran has always been and is still dedicated to the advancement and defence of human rights. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US plans to remove 'unfit' Iran from UN's women's commission amid protest 

Two high school students in Iowa (US) killed their Spanish teacher in retaliation over a poor grade she gave one of the students in her class, prosecutors said in court documents on Tuesday. The duo is being tried as adults.

For the first time since Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale were apprehended and accused of killing their 66-year-old teacher Nohema Graber in the little hamlet of Fairfield on November 2, 2021, the new information provided insight into a potential reason.

On the afternoon of her death, Miller and Graber had a meeting at Fairfield High School to address his subpar grade in her class, according to the investigation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-parkland-school-mass-shooter-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole-530722">US: Parkland school mass shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole</a>

Later that day, according to officials, the teacher drove her vehicle to a park where she was known to go for daily walks after school.

Graber's brutally battered body was discovered in the park the next day, concealed behind a tarp, a wheelbarrow, and railroad ties.

Investigators think that Miller and Goodale, both 16 at the time, beat the victim to death with a baseball bat and boasted about it online.

Miller admitted to the police that he had been unhappy with the way Graber had taught Spanish and that the poor grade she had given him had hurt his GPA as a whole.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-suspect-of-the-attack-on-pelosis-husband-pleads-not-guilty-in-court-530381">Suspect in attack on Pelosi’s husband pleads not guilty in San Francisco court</a>

“The poor grade is believed to be the motive behind the murder of Graber which directly connects Miller,” court documents filed by Jefferson County Attorney Chauncey Moulding and Assistant Iowa Attorney General Scott Brown said.

A "roving group of masked teenagers" killed Graber and compelled Miller to dispose of the body, according to court papers. Although Miller initially claimed he had no knowledge of what had happened, he later "said he had information of everything but did not participate."

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Nohema Graber’s body was found under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. Photo credits: AP

Less than an hour after the instructor arrived, observers saw two guys driving Graber's vehicle out of the park. According to detectives, the two adolescent males were found walking down the same route as the vehicle, which had been abandoned at the end of a rural road.

Also watch |&nbsp;Joe Biden: Future of democracy at risk in next week's midterms

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On Snapchat, Goodale reportedly boasted to a friend about the murder. A witness submitted images of a Snapchat discussion in which the adolescent specifically accused himself and Miller of being responsible for the murder of Graber.

However, according to Miller's attorney Christine Branstad, four search warrants were improperly obtained. She is requesting that the court invalidate all four of them and suppress evidence from Snapchat as well as from her client's home, statements he made to the police, and data gleaned from his phone.

On Wednesday, a judge will hear arguments to determine whether to suppress any of the evidence.

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Two high school students in Iowa (US) killed their Spanish teacher in retaliation over a poor grade she gave one of the students in her class, prosecutors said in court documents on Tuesday.

Two high school students in Iowa (US) killed their Spanish teacher in retaliation over a poor grade she gave one of the students in her class, prosecutors said in court documents on Tuesday. The duo is being tried as adults. For the first time since Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale were apprehended and accused of killing their 66-year-old teacher Nohema Graber in the little hamlet of Fairfield on November 2, 2021, the new information provided insight into a potential reason. On the afternoon of her death, Miller and Graber had a meeting at Fairfield High School to address his subpar grade in her class, according to the investigation. Also read | US: Parkland school mass shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole Later that day, according to officials, the teacher drove her vehicle to a park where she was known to go for daily walks after school. Graber's brutally battered body was discovered in the park the next day, concealed behind a tarp, a wheelbarrow, and railroad ties. Investigators think that Miller and Goodale, both 16 at the time, beat the victim to death with a baseball bat and boasted about it online. Miller admitted to the police that he had been unhappy with the way Graber had taught Spanish and that the poor grade she had given him had hurt his GPA as a whole. Also read | Suspect in attack on Pelosi’s husband pleads not guilty in San Francisco court “The poor grade is believed to be the motive behind the murder of Graber which directly connects Miller,” court documents filed by Jefferson County Attorney Chauncey Moulding and Assistant Iowa Attorney General Scott Brown said. A "roving group of masked teenagers" killed Graber and compelled Miller to dispose of the body, according to court papers. Although Miller initially claimed he had no knowledge of what had happened, he later "said he had information of everything but did not participate." Nohema Graber’s body was found under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. Photo credits: AP Less than an hour after the instructor arrived, observers saw two guys driving Graber's vehicle out of the park. According to detectives, the two adolescent males were found walking down the same route as the vehicle, which had been abandoned at the end of a rural road. Also watch | Joe Biden: Future of democracy at risk in next week's midterms On Snapchat, Goodale reportedly boasted to a friend about the murder. A witness submitted images of a Snapchat discussion in which the adolescent specifically accused himself and Miller of being responsible for the murder of Graber. However, according to Miller's attorney Christine Branstad, four search warrants were improperly obtained. She is requesting that the court invalidate all four of them and suppress evidence from Snapchat as well as from her client's home, statements he made to the police, and data gleaned from his phone. On Wednesday, a judge will hear arguments to determine whether to suppress any of the evidence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US teens who killed their Spanish teacher over poor grade go into trial as adults

American singer Taylor Swift has made history by becoming the first artist to claim all the top 10 spots in the U.S. singles charts. All the 10 songs are from the singer's new album Midnights. What makes Swift so popular? Listen in to Molly Gambhir.

Gravitas: Taylor Swift creates history by claiming all 10 spots in U.S. singles chart

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates by three-quarters of a percentage point again on Wednesday and said its battle against inflation will require borrowing costs to rise further, yet signaled it may be nearing an inflection point in what has become the swiftest tightening of U.S. monetary policy in 40 years.

WION Business News | US Fed hikes interest rates by 0.75%

US&nbsp; President Joe Biden warned that democracy is under assault by election deniers and threatened by some candidates contesting for the midterm elections who he said would refuse to accept the results of November 8.&nbsp;

Biden began his speech on Wednesday by addressing the recent attack on US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi and said “Thankfully, by the grace of God, all survived,”.

Biden noted that the assailant was looking for the Speaker, Paul Pelosi and was asking ‘Where’s Nancy?’”. He added, “those were the same words used by the mob who stormed the Capitol on January 6”.&nbsp;

In the almost 20-minute speech, Biden also spoke about the importance of the upcoming election, as well as some of the issues surrounding “political violence and voter intimidation over the past two years.”

He added, “We don’t settle our differences in America with a riot, a mob or a bullet or a hammer. We settle them peacefully at the ballot box.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-us-midterms-biden-makes-another-gaffe-says-there-are-54-states-529576">Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US</a>

The incumbent US president also addressed some of the major issues faced by the country. 
 
“There is a lot at stake in these midterm elections from our economy, the safety of our streets, personal freedoms, future of healthcare, to our personal freedoms, the future of healthcare, social security, medicare, it’s all important…but there is something else at stake. Democracy itself”.&nbsp;

He then went on to hold former US president Donald Trump responsible for spreading the “Big Lie” that the 2020 election was stolen as well as inspiring the election deniers and candidates who “won’t commit to accepting the results of the elections they’re in."

This includes candidates running for every level of office in America including, governor, Congress, attorney general, secretary of state and so on, said Biden.&nbsp; 
 
“American democracy is under attack because the defeated former president of the United States refused to accept the results of the 2020 election…to accept the will of the people…the fact that he lost. He’s abused his power and put loyalty to himself before loyalty to the Constitution,” said Biden.&nbsp;

The US president also urged people to recognise what’s at stake, calling this a moment of “national and generational importance,” and ended his speech saying that “the fate of the nation” lies with the people.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-tensions-run-high-as-midterms-near-a-crucial-test-for-biden-administration-530400">United States: Tensions run high as midterms near, a crucial test for Biden administration</a>

These remarks were made in the context of hundreds of candidates who have reportedly continued to delegitimise the outcome of the 2020 presidential election and some of whom are poised to hold critical offices in the country.

A recent poll by Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that at least 52% of Americans believe that democracy is not working well.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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US President Joe Biden warned that democracy is under assault by election deniers and threatened by some candidates contesting for the midterm elections who he said would refuse to accept the results of November 8.

US President Joe Biden warned that democracy is under assault by election deniers and threatened by some candidates contesting for the midterm elections who he said would refuse to accept the results of November 8. Biden began his speech on Wednesday by addressing the recent attack on US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi and said “Thankfully, by the grace of God, all survived,”. Biden noted that the assailant was looking for the Speaker, Paul Pelosi and was asking ‘Where’s Nancy?’”. He added, “those were the same words used by the mob who stormed the Capitol on January 6”. In the almost 20-minute speech, Biden also spoke about the importance of the upcoming election, as well as some of the issues surrounding “political violence and voter intimidation over the past two years.” He added, “We don’t settle our differences in America with a riot, a mob or a bullet or a hammer. We settle them peacefully at the ballot box.” ALSO READ: Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US The incumbent US president also addressed some of the major issues faced by the country. “There is a lot at stake in these midterm elections from our economy, the safety of our streets, personal freedoms, future of healthcare, to our personal freedoms, the future of healthcare, social security, medicare, it’s all important…but there is something else at stake. Democracy itself”. He then went on to hold former US president Donald Trump responsible for spreading the “Big Lie” that the 2020 election was stolen as well as inspiring the election deniers and candidates who “won’t commit to accepting the results of the elections they’re in." This includes candidates running for every level of office in America including, governor, Congress, attorney general, secretary of state and so on, said Biden. “American democracy is under attack because the defeated former president of the United States refused to accept the results of the 2020 election…to accept the will of the people…the fact that he lost. He’s abused his power and put loyalty to himself before loyalty to the Constitution,” said Biden. The US president also urged people to recognise what’s at stake, calling this a moment of “national and generational importance,” and ended his speech saying that “the fate of the nation” lies with the people. ALSO WATCH: United States: Tensions run high as midterms near, a crucial test for Biden administration These remarks were made in the context of hundreds of candidates who have reportedly continued to delegitimise the outcome of the 2020 presidential election and some of whom are poised to hold critical offices in the country. A recent poll by Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that at least 52% of Americans believe that democracy is not working well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Democracy at stake': Biden warns about Republican election deniers ahead of US midterms

On Wednesday, Nikolas Cruz, the gunman accused of the mass shooting in the US high school in Parkland, Florida back in 2018 which killed at least 17 students and the staff was formally sentenced to life in prison.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Cruz, responsible for one of the deadliest mass shootings in US history was sentenced by Broward County Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer after hours of testimonies by the family members of the victims.&nbsp;

The former Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland student had pleaded guilty to the attack last year following the defence’s argument that his mother’s use of drugs and alcohol had permanently damaged his brain. According to reports, Cruz had fired more than 140 shots from an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle for nearly seven minutes in the school.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Parkland shooter gets life imprisonment, jury spares capital punishment

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&nbsp;

The sentence is also after the jury could not unanimously vote last month if the gunman was 19 years old at the time of the attack and deserved the death penalty or not with a 9-3 vote on October 13. The judge had also agreed to the prosecutor’s request to allow the family members of the victims to speak in court before the sentence, many of whom criticised the state law which requires all 12 jurors to be unanimous for a convicted person to be executed.&nbsp;

“He has escaped this punishment because a minority of the jury was given the power to overturn the majority decision made by people who were able to see him for what he is…a remorseless monster who deserves no mercy,” said Meghan Petty, who lost her 14-year-old sister Alaina. This hearing marked the end of a trial that went on for more than four years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burn-in-hell-family-members-of-victims-of-parkland-shooting-confront-nikolas-cruz-at-sentencing-530341">'Burn in hell': Family members of Parkland shooting victims confront Nikolas Cruz at sentencing</a>

Cruz barely spoke during the hearing and only addressed the judge when asked questions pertaining to the proceedings. During the two-day hearing, he sat wearing red prison overalls and handcuffs as well as a Covid-19 mask which he later removed when one of the victims’ mothers said it was disrespectful.&nbsp;

The judge did not interact with Cruz beyond what was required while calling the victims’ families and the wounded strong, graceful and patient. She added, “I know you are going to be OK because you have each other.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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On Wednesday, Nikolas Cruz, the gunman accused of the mass shooting in the US high school in Parkland, Florida back in 2018 which killed at least 17 students and the staff was formally sentenced to life in prison.

On Wednesday, Nikolas Cruz, the gunman accused of the mass shooting in the US high school in Parkland, Florida back in 2018 which killed at least 17 students and the staff was formally sentenced to life in prison. The 24-year-old Cruz, responsible for one of the deadliest mass shootings in US history was sentenced by Broward County Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer after hours of testimonies by the family members of the victims. The former Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland student had pleaded guilty to the attack last year following the defence’s argument that his mother’s use of drugs and alcohol had permanently damaged his brain. According to reports, Cruz had fired more than 140 shots from an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle for nearly seven minutes in the school. Watch | Parkland shooter gets life imprisonment, jury spares capital punishment × The sentence is also after the jury could not unanimously vote last month if the gunman was 19 years old at the time of the attack and deserved the death penalty or not with a 9-3 vote on October 13. The judge had also agreed to the prosecutor’s request to allow the family members of the victims to speak in court before the sentence, many of whom criticised the state law which requires all 12 jurors to be unanimous for a convicted person to be executed. “He has escaped this punishment because a minority of the jury was given the power to overturn the majority decision made by people who were able to see him for what he is…a remorseless monster who deserves no mercy,” said Meghan Petty, who lost her 14-year-old sister Alaina. This hearing marked the end of a trial that went on for more than four years. ALSO READ: 'Burn in hell': Family members of Parkland shooting victims confront Nikolas Cruz at sentencing Cruz barely spoke during the hearing and only addressed the judge when asked questions pertaining to the proceedings. During the two-day hearing, he sat wearing red prison overalls and handcuffs as well as a Covid-19 mask which he later removed when one of the victims’ mothers said it was disrespectful. The judge did not interact with Cruz beyond what was required while calling the victims’ families and the wounded strong, graceful and patient. She added, “I know you are going to be OK because you have each other.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Parkland school mass shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole

US President Joe Biden warned in the final days of this year's midterm elections that democracy is at risk. In a scathing attack aimed at Donald Trump and his supporters, the US president said that the refusal of some Republican candidates to accept election results is opening a path to chaos in America.

Joe Biden: Future of democracy at risk in next week's midterms

US President Joe Biden said warned that it would be a threat to democracy if some Republican candidates refused to accept the results from next week's midterm elections if they lose.

US President Joe Biden warns future of democracy at risk as midterms loom

On Wednesday, the United States Federal Reserve raised interest rates again making it the fourth straight increase of 0.75% in a bid to combat inflation in the country which remains at a four-decade-high.&nbsp;

In a statement, the central bank said, “Inflation remains elevated, reflecting supply and demand imbalances related to the pandemic, higher food and energy prices, and broader price pressures,” while reiterating its commitment to returning inflation to its 2% objective. This comes after the two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC).&nbsp;

The interest rate affects the cost of borrowing and investment in the economy which the Federal Reserve has been increasing since March in a bid to slow the economy down and bring down the soaring inflation in the country. This rate hike marks the central bank’s sixth consecutive increase just this year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-federal-reserve-hikes-interest-rates-to-highest-level-since-2008-518597">US Federal Reserve hikes interest rates to highest level since 2008</a>

The policy decision set the target federal funds rate in a range between 3.75%-4% which is the highest since 2008. The Fed’s policy tightening has sparked a debate about its impact on the US and world economies, additionally, many fear that any further hikes could stress the financial system or even trigger a recession.&nbsp;

“Ongoing increases in the target range will be appropriate,” said the FOMC, indicating that they are “highly attentive” to the risks inflation poses which means that there could be further hikes in the future. This comes as the rate of inflation is at least triple the central bank’s target which has led them to increase rates marking the fastest rounds of increase since the 1980s.&nbsp;

Fed Chairman Powell: chances of&nbsp;‘soft landing’ for economy have&nbsp;‘narrowed’

Federal Reserve Board Chairman Jerome Powell addressed a news conference after the closing of the two-day meeting and said that the “ultimate level” of the central bank’s benchmark policy rate is higher than previously anticipated. Furthermore, chances for the so-called “soft landing” for the economy have “narrowed” but are “still possible”, said Powell.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/federal-reserve-raises-rates-by-75-basis-point-most-aggressive-rate-hike-since-1994-488624">Federal reserve raises rates by 75 basis-point, most aggressive rate hike since 1994</a>

While investors have supposedly been speculating about the 75-basis point rate hike, they had been anticipating a decrease in the rate hikes after its meeting in December. After the speech, US stocks reportedly went volatile with Dow falling more than 500 points, S&amp;P 500 sinking by 2.5% and the Nasdaq Composite fell 3.4%, as of Wednesday, reported CNN.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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On Wednesday, the United States Federal Reserve raised interest rates again making it the fourth straight increase of 0.75% in a bid to combat inflation in the country which remains at a four-decade-high.

On Wednesday, the United States Federal Reserve raised interest rates again making it the fourth straight increase of 0.75% in a bid to combat inflation in the country which remains at a four-decade-high. In a statement, the central bank said, “Inflation remains elevated, reflecting supply and demand imbalances related to the pandemic, higher food and energy prices, and broader price pressures,” while reiterating its commitment to returning inflation to its 2% objective. This comes after the two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). The interest rate affects the cost of borrowing and investment in the economy which the Federal Reserve has been increasing since March in a bid to slow the economy down and bring down the soaring inflation in the country. This rate hike marks the central bank’s sixth consecutive increase just this year. ALSO READ: US Federal Reserve hikes interest rates to highest level since 2008 The policy decision set the target federal funds rate in a range between 3.75%-4% which is the highest since 2008. The Fed’s policy tightening has sparked a debate about its impact on the US and world economies, additionally, many fear that any further hikes could stress the financial system or even trigger a recession. “Ongoing increases in the target range will be appropriate,” said the FOMC, indicating that they are “highly attentive” to the risks inflation poses which means that there could be further hikes in the future. This comes as the rate of inflation is at least triple the central bank’s target which has led them to increase rates marking the fastest rounds of increase since the 1980s. Fed Chairman Powell: chances of ‘soft landing’ for economy have ‘narrowed’ Federal Reserve Board Chairman Jerome Powell addressed a news conference after the closing of the two-day meeting and said that the “ultimate level” of the central bank’s benchmark policy rate is higher than previously anticipated. Furthermore, chances for the so-called “soft landing” for the economy have “narrowed” but are “still possible”, said Powell. ALSO READ: Federal reserve raises rates by 75 basis-point, most aggressive rate hike since 1994 While investors have supposedly been speculating about the 75-basis point rate hike, they had been anticipating a decrease in the rate hikes after its meeting in December. After the speech, US stocks reportedly went volatile with Dow falling more than 500 points, S&P 500 sinking by 2.5% and the Nasdaq Composite fell 3.4%, as of Wednesday, reported CNN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In a historic move, US Federal Reserve raises interest rate by 0.75% again

In the US, the democrats are worried about their performance in the upcoming midterm elections. As the approval rating for President Joe Biden is dropping, democrats are pinning their hopes on former US President Barack Obama to turn things around.

US Midterm Elections: Democrats pin hopes on former President Obama

Is Russia recruiting Afghan Commandos? A new report claims Afghans are fighting for Russia in the battlefield against Ukraine. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Is Russia recruiting Afghan Commandos?

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