Along with sanctions on Moscow, the United States is also deploying additional forces in Germany to bolster the NATO military alliance. Biden has also stated that every inch of the NATO alliance will be defended by the NATO forces.

US to deploy 7000 additional forces to Germany amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict

For the first time in US history, abortion through medication accounted for the majority of all such procedures in 2020, a new study has said. &nbsp;

The analysis was made by the Guttmacher Institute. It is&nbsp;a leading reproductive rights group.&nbsp;

The medication abortion, which is also called the “abortion pill”, is a two-drug treatment. It has been approved to terminate a pregnancy up to 10 weeks' gestation or less. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/vegetarians-found-to-have-lower-cancer-risk-than-meat-eaters-456139" hreflang="en">Vegetarians found to have lower cancer risk than meat-eaters</a>

Sold under the brand name ‘Mifeprex’, the drugs have been accounted for a huge share of all abortions done in the US. It was introduced in 2000. &nbsp;

The rise seems to have been driven by the Covid pandemic and updation of FDA regulations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Elizabeth Nash, interim associate director of state issues, Guttmacher Institute, said, “We are seeing more people using medication abortion and some of that may have to do with the pandemic and being able to protect themselves from Covid.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-new-israeli-study-hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy-relieves-ptsd-symptoms-455715" hreflang="en">In a new Israeli study, hyperbaric oxygen therapy relieves PTSD symptoms</a>

“Accessing medication abortion means [people] don’t have to travel long distances, take time off of work and arrange for childcare. That’s important too,” added Nash. &nbsp;

From 39% in 2017, the number of all pregnancies terminated with medication in the US has jumped to 54% in 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Because so many abortion patients are low-income, are Black and brown individuals, are young people, are LGBTQ individuals – people who have been systematically oppressed and faced barriers to accessing healthcare – being able to get access to abortion through telehealth is incredibly important,” added Nash. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

For the first time in US history, abortion through medication accounted for the majority of all such procedures in 2020, a new study has said. The analysis was made by the Guttmacher Institute.

For the first time in US history, abortion through medication accounted for the majority of all such procedures in 2020, a new study has said. The analysis was made by the Guttmacher Institute. It is a leading reproductive rights group. The medication abortion, which is also called the “abortion pill”, is a two-drug treatment. It has been approved to terminate a pregnancy up to 10 weeks' gestation or less. Also Read: Vegetarians found to have lower cancer risk than meat-eaters Sold under the brand name ‘Mifeprex’, the drugs have been accounted for a huge share of all abortions done in the US. It was introduced in 2000. The rise seems to have been driven by the Covid pandemic and updation of FDA regulations. Elizabeth Nash, interim associate director of state issues, Guttmacher Institute, said, “We are seeing more people using medication abortion and some of that may have to do with the pandemic and being able to protect themselves from Covid.” Also Read: In a new Israeli study, hyperbaric oxygen therapy relieves PTSD symptoms “Accessing medication abortion means [people] don’t have to travel long distances, take time off of work and arrange for childcare. That’s important too,” added Nash. From 39% in 2017, the number of all pregnancies terminated with medication in the US has jumped to 54% in 2020. “Because so many abortion patients are low-income, are Black and brown individuals, are young people, are LGBTQ individuals – people who have been systematically oppressed and faced barriers to accessing healthcare – being able to get access to abortion through telehealth is incredibly important,” added Nash. (With inputs from agencies)

For the first time, abortion through medication takes majority share in US in 2020, finds study

US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have hit Russia. No, not militarily yet. &nbsp;

Both the leaders have unveiled a wave of sanctions on Thursday to reprimand Moscow for attacking Ukraine in a 'premeditated' conflict. &nbsp;

The measures have been taken to impede ability of Russia to do business in major currencies along with sanctions against banks and state-owned enterprises. &nbsp;

But Biden has not imposed sanctions on Putin himself.

Not just this, the US leader has not disconnected Russia from the SWIFT international banking system. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-ukraine-conflict-at-least-137-killed-as-russia-continues-military-operation-455211" hreflang="en">Live: Ukraine conflict: At least 137 killed as Russia continues attack</a>

In the largest-ever package of sanctions against Russia, Britain has targetted banks, members of President Vladimir Putin's closest circle and wealthy Russians. &nbsp;

This comes as there are differences with Western allies over how far to go at this juncture. The Republicans in the US have criticised Biden, saying that he should have done more. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-says-his-country-had-been-left-alone-to-fight-russia-456242">Ukrainian President says his country had been 'left alone' to fight Russia</a>

"This is a premeditated attack. Putin is the aggressor. Putin chose this war. And now he and his country will bear the consequences," Biden told reporters at the White House. &nbsp;

The White House also announced export restrictions to curb access of Russia to everything from commercial electronics to semiconductors. &nbsp;

"This hideous and barbarous venture of Vladimir Putin must end in failure. For our part today, the UK is announcing the largest and most severe package of economic sanctions that Russia has ever seen," Johnson told parliament while announcing the new sanctions. &nbsp;

Sanctions have been imposed on more than 100 Russian individuals and entities by the UK. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have hit Russia. No, not militarily yet. Both the leaders have unveiled a wave of sanctions on Thursday to reprimand Moscow for attacking Ukraine in a 'premeditated' conflict.

US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have hit Russia. No, not militarily yet. Both the leaders have unveiled a wave of sanctions on Thursday to reprimand Moscow for attacking Ukraine in a 'premeditated' conflict. The measures have been taken to impede ability of Russia to do business in major currencies along with sanctions against banks and state-owned enterprises. But Biden has not imposed sanctions on Putin himself. Not just this, the US leader has not disconnected Russia from the SWIFT international banking system. Also Read | Live: Ukraine conflict: At least 137 killed as Russia continues attack In the largest-ever package of sanctions against Russia, Britain has targetted banks, members of President Vladimir Putin's closest circle and wealthy Russians. This comes as there are differences with Western allies over how far to go at this juncture. The Republicans in the US have criticised Biden, saying that he should have done more. Also Read: Ukrainian President says his country had been 'left alone' to fight Russia "This is a premeditated attack. Putin is the aggressor. Putin chose this war. And now he and his country will bear the consequences," Biden told reporters at the White House. The White House also announced export restrictions to curb access of Russia to everything from commercial electronics to semiconductors. "This hideous and barbarous venture of Vladimir Putin must end in failure. For our part today, the UK is announcing the largest and most severe package of economic sanctions that Russia has ever seen," Johnson told parliament while announcing the new sanctions. Sanctions have been imposed on more than 100 Russian individuals and entities by the UK. (With inputs from agencies)

For 'premeditated' Ukraine conflict, US, UK hit Russia with new sanctions

Russian president Vladimir Putin addressed the media amid the going conflict with Ukraine. He will be meeting oligarchs to discuss about the sanctions that the West is expected to impose after Russia logged attacks on Ukraine.

Russian president Vladimir Putin to discuss implications of sanctions imposed by West

As President Joe Biden prepares to nominate the first Black woman to the&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court, several leading candidates for the coveted seat on the nation's highest&nbsp;court&nbsp;have emerged.

The Democratic president has said he will reveal his choice by the end of February, and has interviewed three potential nominees so far according to US media.

The White House has been tight-lipped about the search for a justice to replace Justice Stephen Breyer, 83, a liberal stalwart who plans to retire in June at the end of the&nbsp;court's current term.

"The president has not made a decision about who he is going to nominate," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on Tuesday.

"I'm not -- still not -- going to get into details about the internal process," Psaki said.

The selection of a&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court&nbsp;justice involves extensive background checks to prevent unwelcome surprises during Senate nomination hearings.

There have been two African-American&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court&nbsp;justices: Thurgood Marshall, who served from 1967 to 1991, and Clarence Thomas, a conservative who succeeded Marshall and remains on the bench.

The following are reported to be at the top of the list for the seat on the nation's highest&nbsp;court:

Ketanji Brown Jackson

Ketanji Brown Jackson, 51, a judge on the US Circuit&nbsp;Court&nbsp;of Appeals, does not have a background typical of other nominees.

While many judges have made their mark as prosecutors, Jackson spent two years as a federal public defender representing indigent defendants.

She has also served on the US Sentencing Commission, an independent agency created by Congress to address sentencing disparities.

And Jackson has personal experience with the harsh sentences meted out for drug crimes in the United States -- an uncle was sentenced to life in prison in 1989 for cocaine possession.

After graduation, she worked for a series of elite law firms in Boston and Washington, and as a law clerk for Breyer.

Jackson was nominated to be a US District&nbsp;Court&nbsp;judge by former president Barack Obama in 2013 and to the US&nbsp;Court&nbsp;of Appeals for the DC Circuit by Biden in March 2021.

Her most notable ruling came in 2019 when she said a former White House counsel to president Donald Trump had to obey a congressional subpoena.

"Presidents are not kings," Jackson wrote.

Jackson is married to a surgeon. They have two daughters.

Michelle Childs

Michelle Childs, 55, an expert in labor law, is the first Black woman to become a partner in a major law firm in her home state of South Carolina.

Most&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court&nbsp;justices are products of Ivy League schools such as Harvard or Yale but Childs earned her law degree from the University of South Carolina.

Her South Carolina ties could prove decisive in securing her a place on the nine-member&nbsp;court.

Childs enjoys the backing of Jim Clyburn, a powerful Black congressman from South Carolina whose support helped Biden win the state's Democratic presidential primary and propel him to the White House.

Childs also has the vocal support of an influential Republican senator, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.

Born in Detroit, Childs moved to South Carolina with her mother when she was 14 after her parents divorced.

Her father, a police officer, stayed in Detroit and died shortly afterwards of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Childs earned a full scholarship to the University of South Florida and won the Miss Black Florida beauty pageant in 1986.

She became a US District Judge in 2009 and was nominated to the US&nbsp;Court&nbsp;of Appeals for the DC Circuit by Biden in December.

Childs' candidacy has come under fire from some on the left because of her past representation of management against employees.

Childs is married to a gastroenterologist. They have a daughter.

Leondra Kruger&nbsp;

Leondra Kruger, 45, has had a meteoric rise through the judicial ranks and, if named to the&nbsp;court, would be the youngest of the justices on the bench.

Kruger graduated with honors from Harvard and earned her law degree at Yale, where she was the first Black editor-in-chief of the Yale Law Journal.

At the age of 31, Kruger went to work for the US Solicitor General's office in the Obama administration, representing the federal government in 12 cases before the&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court.

When she was just 38, Kruger was nominated to the California&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court&nbsp;although she had no experience as a judge.

Kruger has forged a reputation as a moderate progressive and pragmatic justice.

Kruger grew up in the suburbs of Los Angeles, the daughter of two doctors. Her mother is of Jamaican origin and her father, who died in 2005, was from a family of European Jewish immigrants.

She&nbsp;worked for a private law firm in Washington and then as a law clerk, notably to&nbsp;Supreme&nbsp;Court&nbsp;Justice John Paul Stevens.

After Biden entered the White House, he reportedly asked Kruger on two occasions to return to Washington to become the solicitor general but she declined.

Kruger is married to a fellow lawyer. They have two children.

As President Joe Biden prepares to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court, several leading candidates for the coveted seat on the nation's highest court have emerged.

As President Joe Biden prepares to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court, several leading candidates for the coveted seat on the nation's highest court have emerged. The Democratic president has said he will reveal his choice by the end of February, and has interviewed three potential nominees so far according to US media. The White House has been tight-lipped about the search for a justice to replace Justice Stephen Breyer, 83, a liberal stalwart who plans to retire in June at the end of the court's current term. "The president has not made a decision about who he is going to nominate," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on Tuesday. "I'm not -- still not -- going to get into details about the internal process," Psaki said. The selection of a Supreme Court justice involves extensive background checks to prevent unwelcome surprises during Senate nomination hearings. There have been two African-American Supreme Court justices: Thurgood Marshall, who served from 1967 to 1991, and Clarence Thomas, a conservative who succeeded Marshall and remains on the bench. The following are reported to be at the top of the list for the seat on the nation's highest court: Ketanji Brown Jackson Ketanji Brown Jackson, 51, a judge on the US Circuit Court of Appeals, does not have a background typical of other nominees. While many judges have made their mark as prosecutors, Jackson spent two years as a federal public defender representing indigent defendants. She has also served on the US Sentencing Commission, an independent agency created by Congress to address sentencing disparities. And Jackson has personal experience with the harsh sentences meted out for drug crimes in the United States -- an uncle was sentenced to life in prison in 1989 for cocaine possession. After graduation, she worked for a series of elite law firms in Boston and Washington, and as a law clerk for Breyer. Jackson was nominated to be a US District Court judge by former president Barack Obama in 2013 and to the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit by Biden in March 2021. Her most notable ruling came in 2019 when she said a former White House counsel to president Donald Trump had to obey a congressional subpoena. "Presidents are not kings," Jackson wrote. Jackson is married to a surgeon. They have two daughters. Michelle Childs Michelle Childs, 55, an expert in labor law, is the first Black woman to become a partner in a major law firm in her home state of South Carolina. Most Supreme Court justices are products of Ivy League schools such as Harvard or Yale but Childs earned her law degree from the University of South Carolina. Her South Carolina ties could prove decisive in securing her a place on the nine-member court. Childs enjoys the backing of Jim Clyburn, a powerful Black congressman from South Carolina whose support helped Biden win the state's Democratic presidential primary and propel him to the White House. Childs also has the vocal support of an influential Republican senator, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. Born in Detroit, Childs moved to South Carolina with her mother when she was 14 after her parents divorced. Her father, a police officer, stayed in Detroit and died shortly afterwards of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Childs earned a full scholarship to the University of South Florida and won the Miss Black Florida beauty pageant in 1986. She became a US District Judge in 2009 and was nominated to the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit by Biden in December. Childs' candidacy has come under fire from some on the left because of her past representation of management against employees. Childs is married to a gastroenterologist. They have a daughter. Leondra Kruger Leondra Kruger, 45, has had a meteoric rise through the judicial ranks and, if named to the court, would be the youngest of the justices on the bench. Kruger graduated with honors from Harvard and earned her law degree at Yale, where she was the first Black editor-in-chief of the Yale Law Journal. At the age of 31, Kruger went to work for the US Solicitor General's office in the Obama administration, representing the federal government in 12 cases before the Supreme Court. When she was just 38, Kruger was nominated to the California Supreme Court although she had no experience as a judge. Kruger has forged a reputation as a moderate progressive and pragmatic justice. Kruger grew up in the suburbs of Los Angeles, the daughter of two doctors. Her mother is of Jamaican origin and her father, who died in 2005, was from a family of European Jewish immigrants. She worked for a private law firm in Washington and then as a law clerk, notably to Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens. After Biden entered the White House, he reportedly asked Kruger on two occasions to return to Washington to become the solicitor general but she declined. Kruger is married to a fellow lawyer. They have two children.

Biden poised to nominate first Black woman on Supreme Court

Beijing imposing sanctions against Sri Lanka after Columbo rejected the fertilizer consignment of a Chinese firm underscores the souring relations between the two countries, said a think tank, Policy Research Group (POREG).

China weaved its way into Sri Lanka through its cunning policy of lending shoulder to countries shunned by international communities for poor human rights records.Similarly, Beijing warmed up to Colombo when Sri Lanka became an outcast state with allegations of state-sponsored human rights abuses during Tamil Tigers-led insurgency in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-battles-fuel-shortage-amid-foreign-exchange-crisis-455292">Sri Lanka battles fuel shortage amid foreign exchange crisis</a>

In 2007, when the USA ended its military aid to Sri Lanka and India refused to sell offensive weapons, China along with military equipment provided aid of USD 1 billion to Sri Lanka, the think tank reported. With its habitual policy of promising economic assistance to a pariah state, Beijing has now Colombo enmeshed in a debt trap, luring it with the bait called the 'Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)'.

In 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping had announced massive loans and investments for Colombo including the development of the Hambantota port. However, China gained control of Hambantota on a 99-year lease in a debt-swapping deal to the tune of USD 1.2 billion, POREG reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-getting-closer-to-india-to-deal-with-chinese-debt-trap-454776">Sri Lanka getting closer to India to deal with Chinese 'debt trap'</a>

Another Chinese venture, Colombo Port City development project, worth USD 1.4 billion, is also being criticised for Beijing trying to turn a key section of the capital city into a Chinese colony under the garb of transforming Colombo's waterfront.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Sri Lanka in January 2022 also did not offer any respite to the island nation that immediately needs to repay nearly USD 2 billion to Beijing.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka faces economic crisis, India ready to make investment in island-nation

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-faces-economic-crisis-india-ready-to-make-investment-in-island-nation-455746/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Notably, Sri Lanka's foreign debt obligations are to the tune of over USD 7 billion, according to the think tank.Sri Lanka's dynamic relations with China demonstrate that Beijing stops at nothing when it comes to the promotion of its own strategic interests.

"The Bamboo Capitalist has proved to be worst than the Shakespearian Shylock with no concern whatsoever for the Lankan plight," the think tank quoted a Lankan diplomat as saying.

Beijing imposing sanctions against Sri Lanka after Columbo rejected the fertilizer consignment of a Chinese firm underscores the souring relations between the two countries, said a think tank, Policy Research Group (POREG).

Beijing imposing sanctions against Sri Lanka after Columbo rejected the fertilizer consignment of a Chinese firm underscores the souring relations between the two countries, said a think tank, Policy Research Group (POREG). China weaved its way into Sri Lanka through its cunning policy of lending shoulder to countries shunned by international communities for poor human rights records.Similarly, Beijing warmed up to Colombo when Sri Lanka became an outcast state with allegations of state-sponsored human rights abuses during Tamil Tigers-led insurgency in the country. Also read | Sri Lanka battles fuel shortage amid foreign exchange crisis In 2007, when the USA ended its military aid to Sri Lanka and India refused to sell offensive weapons, China along with military equipment provided aid of USD 1 billion to Sri Lanka, the think tank reported. With its habitual policy of promising economic assistance to a pariah state, Beijing has now Colombo enmeshed in a debt trap, luring it with the bait called the 'Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)'. In 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping had announced massive loans and investments for Colombo including the development of the Hambantota port. However, China gained control of Hambantota on a 99-year lease in a debt-swapping deal to the tune of USD 1.2 billion, POREG reported. Also read | Sri Lanka getting closer to India to deal with Chinese 'debt trap' Another Chinese venture, Colombo Port City development project, worth USD 1.4 billion, is also being criticised for Beijing trying to turn a key section of the capital city into a Chinese colony under the garb of transforming Colombo's waterfront. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Sri Lanka in January 2022 also did not offer any respite to the island nation that immediately needs to repay nearly USD 2 billion to Beijing. Watch | Sri Lanka faces economic crisis, India ready to make investment in island-nation Notably, Sri Lanka's foreign debt obligations are to the tune of over USD 7 billion, according to the think tank.Sri Lanka's dynamic relations with China demonstrate that Beijing stops at nothing when it comes to the promotion of its own strategic interests. "The Bamboo Capitalist has proved to be worst than the Shakespearian Shylock with no concern whatsoever for the Lankan plight," the think tank quoted a Lankan diplomat as saying.

Beijing's strategic interests outweigh Sri Lanka-China relations

US President Joe Biden slammed Russia over its unprovoked attack on Ukraine late and said that the world will hold Russia accountable. WION speaks to International Affairs Expert Kadira Pethiyagoda for more perspective.

Russia Ukraine conflict: World will hold Russia accountable for attack on Ukraine, says US Prez Joe Biden

Truckers in the United States have gathered in California to protest against COVID rules and mask mandates. They are headed for Washington DC.

US truckers gather in California to protest against COVID rules & mask mandates

Exactly two years after a 25-year-old black man Ahmaud Arbery was murdered in Georgia, a federal jury has now found three white men guilty on all counts in the hate crime case.

US: Three held guilty in Arbery hate crime case

Data released by the US National Center for Health Statistics on Wednesday showed a rise in pregnancy-related deaths for mothers across America in 2020, with black women three times more likely to die than white women.

The report showed the rate was 23.8 deaths per 100,000 live births, far higher than comparable countries, such as Canada, where it was 7.5 per 100,000, according to OECD statistics for the same year.

In 2020, the US witnessed 861 maternal deaths, which the World Health Organisation defines as a death while pregnant or within 42 days of the end of a pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management.

In 2019, the number of deaths per 100,000 live US births was 20.1, while in 2018 it was 17.4.

But the numbers rise even higher when focused solely on non-white mothers. Pregnancy-related deaths for black mothers jumped from 44 per 100,000 births in 2019 to 55 the next year.

For Hispanic mothers, the number climbed from 13 to 18 during the same period.

While maternal mortality dropped across the world in the 20th century with the help of vast improvements in medical care, the United States saw a record plunge since 2000, unlike most other countries.

In fact, the last time the US rate was officially this high was in 1968, though a new reporting methodology was introduced in 2018, reports AFP.

Possible reasons for such disparities and the overall jump in deaths were not mentioned in Wednesday’s report, though researchers believe that the coronavirus may have played some role.

"We observed increases across a broad number of categories, and COVID-19 likely contributed,"&nbsp;Donna Hoyert, author of the report, told AFP about the results.&nbsp;

(With contributions from agencies)

Data released by the US National Center for Health Statistics on Wednesday showed a rise in pregnancy-related deaths for mothers across America in 2020, with black women three times more likely to die than white women.

Data released by the US National Center for Health Statistics on Wednesday showed a rise in pregnancy-related deaths for mothers across America in 2020, with black women three times more likely to die than white women. The report showed the rate was 23.8 deaths per 100,000 live births, far higher than comparable countries, such as Canada, where it was 7.5 per 100,000, according to OECD statistics for the same year. In 2020, the US witnessed 861 maternal deaths, which the World Health Organisation defines as a death while pregnant or within 42 days of the end of a pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management. In 2019, the number of deaths per 100,000 live US births was 20.1, while in 2018 it was 17.4. But the numbers rise even higher when focused solely on non-white mothers. Pregnancy-related deaths for black mothers jumped from 44 per 100,000 births in 2019 to 55 the next year. For Hispanic mothers, the number climbed from 13 to 18 during the same period. While maternal mortality dropped across the world in the 20th century with the help of vast improvements in medical care, the United States saw a record plunge since 2000, unlike most other countries. In fact, the last time the US rate was officially this high was in 1968, though a new reporting methodology was introduced in 2018, reports AFP. Possible reasons for such disparities and the overall jump in deaths were not mentioned in Wednesday’s report, though researchers believe that the coronavirus may have played some role. "We observed increases across a broad number of categories, and COVID-19 likely contributed," Donna Hoyert, author of the report, told AFP about the results. (With contributions from agencies)

US maternal mortality rate rises, Black women 3 times more likely to die than White counterparts: Study

The United States has called off high-level meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin following Moscow’s recognition of Ukraine’s two rebel regions. WION's correspondent Susan Tehrani brings in more on this.

US cancels scheduled diplomatic meets with Russia

US State Department said on Tuesday that the US had restricted import of cultural and historical items from Afghanistan with an aim to prevent "terrorists" from profiting. Experts have reportedly voiced fears about unintended consequences of such a measure.

The decree, which was implemented on an "emergency" basis and took effect on Friday, includes restrictions on bringing ceramics, paintings, glass, ivory, ancient textiles, tiles and wood pieces, among others into the country, according to a government list.&nbsp;

The restrictions "are intended to prevent illicitly trafficked materials from entering the US art market, thus reducing the incentive for pillage of Afghanistan's cultural heritage and combatting profit from the sale of these cultural objects by terrorists and criminal organizations," the State Department said.&nbsp;

But they come after an April 2021 request from the US-backed Afghan government -- which fell to the Taliban in August.

"Can the State Department act based on a 'request' of a government that no longer exists?" ancient coin collector and advocate Peter Tompa asked in a post on his blog the Cultural Property Observer.

"The real question is how these restrictions are going to be enforced and if any material that may be seized will be repatriated to the Taliban once diplomatic relations (with the United States) are restored," he wrote.&nbsp;

Taliban 'investigating' looting

Restricted archaeological material dates from the year 50,000 BC through 1747, and restricted cultural material includes items from the ninth century through 1920, the government said.

The new regulations could create logistics issues for collectors or curators who already have items on their way to the United States as auction houses prepare to sell pieces during Asia Week New York next month, art publication The Art Newspaper pointed out.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US State Department said on Tuesday that the US had restricted import of cultural and historical items from Afghanistan with an aim to prevent "terrorists" from profiting.

US State Department said on Tuesday that the US had restricted import of cultural and historical items from Afghanistan with an aim to prevent "terrorists" from profiting. Experts have reportedly voiced fears about unintended consequences of such a measure. The decree, which was implemented on an "emergency" basis and took effect on Friday, includes restrictions on bringing ceramics, paintings, glass, ivory, ancient textiles, tiles and wood pieces, among others into the country, according to a government list. The restrictions "are intended to prevent illicitly trafficked materials from entering the US art market, thus reducing the incentive for pillage of Afghanistan's cultural heritage and combatting profit from the sale of these cultural objects by terrorists and criminal organizations," the State Department said. But they come after an April 2021 request from the US-backed Afghan government -- which fell to the Taliban in August. "Can the State Department act based on a 'request' of a government that no longer exists?" ancient coin collector and advocate Peter Tompa asked in a post on his blog the Cultural Property Observer. "The real question is how these restrictions are going to be enforced and if any material that may be seized will be repatriated to the Taliban once diplomatic relations (with the United States) are restored," he wrote. Taliban 'investigating' looting Restricted archaeological material dates from the year 50,000 BC through 1747, and restricted cultural material includes items from the ninth century through 1920, the government said. The new regulations could create logistics issues for collectors or curators who already have items on their way to the United States as auction houses prepare to sell pieces during Asia Week New York next month, art publication The Art Newspaper pointed out.

US imposes restriction on importing Afghan cultural items

The United States' Supreme Court has formally rejected former US President Donald Trump's request to block the release of White House records this was asked by the committee investigating last year's attack on US capitol.

US supreme court rejects Trump's legal bid to shield Capitol attack records

US top court has rejected former US President Donald Trump's legal bid. Access to Jan 6 records granted has been granted for the Capitol hill riots probe.

US top court rejects former US President Donald Trump's legal bid, access to Jan 6 records granted

Lawyers for&nbsp;Honduran&nbsp;ex-president&nbsp;Juan Orlando Hernandez, wanted on drug trafficking charges in the United States, asked Monday that he be granted&nbsp;house&nbsp;arrest&nbsp;while the&nbsp;extradition&nbsp;case against him proceeds, a spokesperson said.

The 53-year-old is accused of having facilitated the smuggling of some 500 tons of drugs -- mainly from Colombia and Venezuela -- to the United States via Honduras since 2004.

In turn, he allegedly received "millions of dollars in bribes... from multiple narcotrafficking organizations in Honduras, Mexico and other places," according to a document from the US embassy in Tegucigalpa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-meet-hondurass-first-woman-president-xiomara-castro-448320">In Pics: Meet Honduras's first woman president Xiomara Castro</a>

Washington requested on February 14 he be extradited to the United States to face charges.

He was arrested and placed in prison at the Special Forces headquarters, in the east of the capital Tegucigalpa.

A judge ruled Hernandez would stay there in preventative detention until a second hearing next month.

But on Monday, Hernandez's defence team requested "the change of detention measure... to his home, under&nbsp;house&nbsp;arrest," Supreme Court spokesman Melvin Duarte said.

The court had said on Twitter the judge had agreed to hear an appeal from the defense team to revoke Hernandez's preventative detention.

The appeal has to be approved by all 15 justices of the Supreme Court.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/honduran-ex-president-to-remain-in-custody-as-us-seeks-extradition-454131">Honduran ex-president to remain in custody as US seeks extradition</a>

In power for eight years until January 27, when leftist Xiomara Castro was sworn in as Honduras's first woman president, Hernandez was taken from his home in Tegucigalpa by&nbsp;Honduran&nbsp;police acting in coordination with US agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration.

While the right-wing politician had portrayed himself as an ally of the US war on drugs during his tenure, traffickers caught in the United States claimed to have paid bribes to the president's inner circle.

Hernandez's brother, former&nbsp;Honduran&nbsp;congressman Tony Hernandez, was given a life sentence in the United States in March 2021 for drug trafficking.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on February 7 that "according to multiple, credible media reports," Hernandez "has engaged in significant corruption by committing or facilitating acts of corruption and narco-trafficking and using the proceeds of illicit activity to facilitate political campaigns."

Hernandez denies the claims, which he said were part of a revenge plot by traffickers that his government had captured or extradited to the United States.&nbsp;

His wife, Ana Garcia, appeared Monday before the National Commission on Human Rights to protest against the way her husband was arrested.

"You transmitted all the images of the humiliating and degrading way in which my husband was treated," she told reporters. "The authorities who allowed the use of shackles and chains... exhibited him publicly as a trophy."

But deputy security minister Julissa Villanueva said she had checked Hernandez's prison conditions Monday and did not find "any violation of human rights, cruel or degrading treatment."

Lawyers for Honduran ex-president Juan Orlando Hernandez, wanted on drug trafficking charges in the United States, asked Monday that he be granted house arrest while the extradition case against him proceeds, a spokesperson said.

Lawyers for Honduran ex-president Juan Orlando Hernandez, wanted on drug trafficking charges in the United States, asked Monday that he be granted house arrest while the extradition case against him proceeds, a spokesperson said. The 53-year-old is accused of having facilitated the smuggling of some 500 tons of drugs -- mainly from Colombia and Venezuela -- to the United States via Honduras since 2004. In turn, he allegedly received "millions of dollars in bribes... from multiple narcotrafficking organizations in Honduras, Mexico and other places," according to a document from the US embassy in Tegucigalpa. Also read | In Pics: Meet Honduras's first woman president Xiomara Castro Washington requested on February 14 he be extradited to the United States to face charges. He was arrested and placed in prison at the Special Forces headquarters, in the east of the capital Tegucigalpa. A judge ruled Hernandez would stay there in preventative detention until a second hearing next month. But on Monday, Hernandez's defence team requested "the change of detention measure... to his home, under house arrest," Supreme Court spokesman Melvin Duarte said. The court had said on Twitter the judge had agreed to hear an appeal from the defense team to revoke Hernandez's preventative detention. The appeal has to be approved by all 15 justices of the Supreme Court. Also read | Honduran ex-president to remain in custody as US seeks extradition In power for eight years until January 27, when leftist Xiomara Castro was sworn in as Honduras's first woman president, Hernandez was taken from his home in Tegucigalpa by Honduran police acting in coordination with US agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration. While the right-wing politician had portrayed himself as an ally of the US war on drugs during his tenure, traffickers caught in the United States claimed to have paid bribes to the president's inner circle. Hernandez's brother, former Honduran congressman Tony Hernandez, was given a life sentence in the United States in March 2021 for drug trafficking. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on February 7 that "according to multiple, credible media reports," Hernandez "has engaged in significant corruption by committing or facilitating acts of corruption and narco-trafficking and using the proceeds of illicit activity to facilitate political campaigns." Hernandez denies the claims, which he said were part of a revenge plot by traffickers that his government had captured or extradited to the United States. His wife, Ana Garcia, appeared Monday before the National Commission on Human Rights to protest against the way her husband was arrested. "You transmitted all the images of the humiliating and degrading way in which my husband was treated," she told reporters. "The authorities who allowed the use of shackles and chains... exhibited him publicly as a trophy." But deputy security minister Julissa Villanueva said she had checked Hernandez's prison conditions Monday and did not find "any violation of human rights, cruel or degrading treatment."

Former Honduran president asks for house arrest while extradition case against him proceeds

Japan&nbsp;on Tuesday said it stood&nbsp;ready&nbsp;to&nbsp;join&nbsp;the United States and other G7 industrialized nations in slapping&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on Russia, should President Vladimir Putin order an invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The confirmation by the world's No. 3 economy comes as the crisis in Europe deepens, with the Russian leader on Monday ordering troops into two breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine that Russia now recognizes as independent states.

That action was "unacceptable and a violation of international law," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who called&nbsp;Putin on Thursday to urge restraint, told reporters.&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;was&nbsp;ready&nbsp;for a strong response that could include&nbsp;sanctions, he added.

Also read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-city-pop-the-soundtrack-to-japans-boom-years-goes-viral-455195">&nbsp;|&nbsp;City Pop: the soundtrack to Japan's boom years goes viral</a>

The White House said late on Monday it would announce new&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on Russia on Monday "in response to Moscow’s decisions and actions today."

"We are coordinating with allies and partners on that announcement," a White House spokesperson said.

New&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;by&nbsp;Japan, which would add to those imposed on Russia in 2014 after it occupied the Crimea, would include a ban on semiconductor chips and other key technology exports and tighter restrictions on Russian banks, the Yomiuri newspaper reported earlier.

Although&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;is no longer a major exporter of semiconductors, with only a 10% share of the global chip market, it is a key manufacturer of specialised electronic components, such as automotive chips and image sensors, and dominates in other industrial fields, such as high tech manufacturing equipment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-two-russian-backed-areas-in-eastern-ukraine-455190">US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine</a>

Kishida and other government officials who spoke on Tuesday did not say what&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;was mulling.

Japan's toughening stance against Russia contrasts with the softer diplomatic approach to Moscow taken by&nbsp;Japanese administrations in the past. They have courted Putin in an attempt to secure the return of islands occupied by Russian forces at the end of World War Two.

Japan's delicate diplomacy has also been shaped by&nbsp;its&nbsp;reliance on Russia for some of&nbsp;its&nbsp;energy needs. In 2021, Russia provided more than 12% of&nbsp;Japan's thermal coal, and almost a tenth of&nbsp;its&nbsp;liquefied natural gas.

That economic anguish, however, has been overtaken in recent years by growing concern about a revival in Russian military activity in East Asia and Moscow's deepening security cooperation with neighbouring China.

“Ukraine is facing a tense situation now, so we must firmly watch how it could affect&nbsp;Japan’s economy,” Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki said at a briefing on Tuesday.

Watch |&nbsp;'No access to financial markets of Russia plans to invade Ukraine,' warns EU

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&nbsp;

Japan on Tuesday said it stood ready to join the United States and other G7 industrialized nations in slapping sanctions on Russia, should President Vladimir Putin order an invasion of Ukraine.

Japan on Tuesday said it stood ready to join the United States and other G7 industrialized nations in slapping sanctions on Russia, should President Vladimir Putin order an invasion of Ukraine. The confirmation by the world's No. 3 economy comes as the crisis in Europe deepens, with the Russian leader on Monday ordering troops into two breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine that Russia now recognizes as independent states. That action was "unacceptable and a violation of international law," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who called Putin on Thursday to urge restraint, told reporters. Japan was ready for a strong response that could include sanctions, he added. Also read | City Pop: the soundtrack to Japan's boom years goes viral The White House said late on Monday it would announce new sanctions on Russia on Monday "in response to Moscow’s decisions and actions today." "We are coordinating with allies and partners on that announcement," a White House spokesperson said. New sanctions by Japan, which would add to those imposed on Russia in 2014 after it occupied the Crimea, would include a ban on semiconductor chips and other key technology exports and tighter restrictions on Russian banks, the Yomiuri newspaper reported earlier. Although Japan is no longer a major exporter of semiconductors, with only a 10% share of the global chip market, it is a key manufacturer of specialised electronic components, such as automotive chips and image sensors, and dominates in other industrial fields, such as high tech manufacturing equipment. Also read | US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine Kishida and other government officials who spoke on Tuesday did not say what sanctions Japan was mulling. Japan's toughening stance against Russia contrasts with the softer diplomatic approach to Moscow taken by Japanese administrations in the past. They have courted Putin in an attempt to secure the return of islands occupied by Russian forces at the end of World War Two. Japan's delicate diplomacy has also been shaped by its reliance on Russia for some of its energy needs. In 2021, Russia provided more than 12% of Japan's thermal coal, and almost a tenth of its liquefied natural gas. That economic anguish, however, has been overtaken in recent years by growing concern about a revival in Russian military activity in East Asia and Moscow's deepening security cooperation with neighbouring China. “Ukraine is facing a tense situation now, so we must firmly watch how it could affect Japan’s economy,” Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki said at a briefing on Tuesday. Watch | 'No access to financial markets of Russia plans to invade Ukraine,' warns EU

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Japan ready to join US-led sanctions on Moscow

Israel is caught in the midst of Russia-Ukraine tensions. Officials are worried about the imposition of US sanctions against Russia because Israel believes that the sanctions can harm Tel Aviv's security interests. WION's Jodie Cohen brings you more insights.

Israel worried about US sanctions, fears souring relations with Russia

The United States is considering new sanctions against Russia, proposing to cut some of its top banks from Dollar transactions. UK has already announced sanctions blocking Russian companies access to western currencies.

US to cut Russian banks from Dollar transactions

More than 2,000 ceasefire violations have been reported in eastern Ukraine. Washington believes Putin is using the Donbas hostilities as an excuse to invade. Russia is accusing the West of using Ukraine as a tool of conflict. Is war now inevitable? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: 2,000 ceasefire violations in eastern Ukraine

Heavy&nbsp;tug&nbsp;boats&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;sprayed&nbsp;water&nbsp;on a burning&nbsp;ship&nbsp;carrying&nbsp;thousands of&nbsp;Porsches&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bentleys&nbsp;adrift off the coast of Portugal's&nbsp;Azores islands, the&nbsp;ship's manager said in a statement.

The Felicity Ace,&nbsp;carrying&nbsp;around 4,000 vehicles including&nbsp;Porsches, Audis&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bentleys, some with lithium-ion batteries, caught fire on Wednesday last week.

The 22 crew members on board were evacuated the same day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portugal-pm-antonio-costa-indian-connection-of-gandhi-of-lisbon-who-won-polls-again-449090">Portugal PM Antonio Costa: Indian connection of 'Gandhi of Lisbon' who won polls again</a>

Ship&nbsp;manager Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd (MOL) said in a statement the vessel was still on fire but stable,&nbsp;and&nbsp;that no oil leak had been reported so far. It also said the&nbsp;ship&nbsp;was drifting further from the&nbsp;Azores islands in the Atlantic ocean.

Two large&nbsp;tug&nbsp;boats&nbsp;equipped with firefighting gear arrived from Gibraltar on Monday,&nbsp;and&nbsp;were working with another patrol boat to&nbsp;spray&nbsp;water&nbsp;at the Felicity Ace&nbsp;and&nbsp;cool it down, MOL said.

The arrival of two other&nbsp;tug&nbsp;boats&nbsp;with more firefighting equipment is scheduled for Feb. 23&nbsp;and&nbsp;Feb. 26.

"Together with the all relevant parties, MOL is making every effort to contain the damage&nbsp;and&nbsp;resolve the situation as soon as possible," MOL said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-snap-polls-portugals-pm-costa-makes-stunning-victory-bags-majority-449094">In snap polls, Portugal's PM Costa makes stunning victory, bags majority&nbsp;</a>

João Mendes Cabeças, the captain of the&nbsp;nearest port on the&nbsp;Azorean island&nbsp;of Faial, said on Sunday the fire had lost its intensity, probably because there was little left to burn.

Cabeças said as the fire subsides&nbsp;and&nbsp;the structure cools down, firefighting teams&nbsp;and&nbsp;technicians might be able to board the vessel to prepare to tow it either to Europe or the Bahamas.

"When conditions are safe the salvage team will board the Felicity Ace for an initial assessment," MOL added.

Cabeças told Reuters over the weekend the lithium-ion batteries in the electric vehicles were "keeping the fire alive." It was not clear whether the batteries had caused the fire.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Canada's violent crackdown on protesters

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MOL did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the cause of the fire.

Volkswagen, which owns the car brands, said on Monday it did not have any further information to share.

Heavy tug boats on Tuesday sprayed water on a burning ship carrying thousands of Porsches and Bentleys adrift off the coast of Portugal's Azores islands, the ship's manager said in a statement.

Heavy tug boats on Tuesday sprayed water on a burning ship carrying thousands of Porsches and Bentleys adrift off the coast of Portugal's Azores islands, the ship's manager said in a statement. The Felicity Ace, carrying around 4,000 vehicles including Porsches, Audis and Bentleys, some with lithium-ion batteries, caught fire on Wednesday last week. The 22 crew members on board were evacuated the same day. Also read | Portugal PM Antonio Costa: Indian connection of 'Gandhi of Lisbon' who won polls again Ship manager Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd (MOL) said in a statement the vessel was still on fire but stable, and that no oil leak had been reported so far. It also said the ship was drifting further from the Azores islands in the Atlantic ocean. Two large tug boats equipped with firefighting gear arrived from Gibraltar on Monday, and were working with another patrol boat to spray water at the Felicity Ace and cool it down, MOL said. The arrival of two other tug boats with more firefighting equipment is scheduled for Feb. 23 and Feb. 26. "Together with the all relevant parties, MOL is making every effort to contain the damage and resolve the situation as soon as possible," MOL said. Also read | In snap polls, Portugal's PM Costa makes stunning victory, bags majority João Mendes Cabeças, the captain of the nearest port on the Azorean island of Faial, said on Sunday the fire had lost its intensity, probably because there was little left to burn. Cabeças said as the fire subsides and the structure cools down, firefighting teams and technicians might be able to board the vessel to prepare to tow it either to Europe or the Bahamas. "When conditions are safe the salvage team will board the Felicity Ace for an initial assessment," MOL added. Cabeças told Reuters over the weekend the lithium-ion batteries in the electric vehicles were "keeping the fire alive." It was not clear whether the batteries had caused the fire. Watch | Gravitas: Canada's violent crackdown on protesters MOL did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the cause of the fire. Volkswagen, which owns the car brands, said on Monday it did not have any further information to share.

Tug boats spray water on blazing ship carrying Porsches and Bentleys near Azores

The United States and the European Union are expected to impose sanctions on Russia after President Vladimir Putin ordered troops into two Moscow-backed rebel regions of Ukraine.

US, EU set to impose sanctions on Russia after Putin orders troops into two rebel regions of Ukraine

After weeks of warnings to de-escalate military maneuvers in eastern Ukraine, US has now imposed a series of limited sanctions on the two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine's Donbass region. The move came after Putin signed a presidential decree recognizing the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine.

United States announces new sanction as Russia backs Ukraine's rebel regions

Eating leftovers can be risky. Well, we are not kidding as a 19-year-old college student from New England region in the US had to undergo amputation of both legs after savouring the same. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This strange case has come to fore after a video about it went viral recently. On February 16, the clip was posted on YouTube by channel 'Chubbyemu’, which is run by Dr Bernard Hsu, a licensed toxicologist. It has now got nearly one million views. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/75-people-worldwide-want-ban-on-single-use-plastics-finds-global-survey-455244" hreflang="en">75% people worldwide want ban on single-use plastics, finds global survey</a>

As per a March 2021 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, the student was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of Massachusetts General Hospital as a result of "shock, multiple organ failure, and rash."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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On eating leftovers of a restaurant meal, the student felt abdominal pain and nausea. He also started vomiting and experiencing chills, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, neck stiffness and blurry vision, as per the journal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

His skin also developed a purplish discoloration. He was taken to hospital. The temperature of the person peaked at 105 degrees and heart rate was 166 beats per minute. His breathing worsened and was given oxygen. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/evidence-of-first-ear-surgery-found-in-5300-year-old-skull-say-archaeologists-454953" hreflang="en">Evidence of first ear surgery found in 5,300-year-old skull, say archaeologists</a>

Tests showed the person had Neisseria meningitidis. According to Dr Bernard, "when bacteria are present in the blood, the entire body’s blood vessels dilate, dropping the blood pressure preventing oxygen from getting to the organs." &nbsp;&nbsp;

He faced many complications and had to undergo the amputation of parts of all 10 fingers and below his knees. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Eating leftovers can be risky. Well, we are not kidding as a 19-year-old college student from New England region in the US had to undergo amputation of both legs after savouring the same.

Eating leftovers can be risky. Well, we are not kidding as a 19-year-old college student from New England region in the US had to undergo amputation of both legs after savouring the same. This strange case has come to fore after a video about it went viral recently. On February 16, the clip was posted on YouTube by channel 'Chubbyemu’, which is run by Dr Bernard Hsu, a licensed toxicologist. It has now got nearly one million views. Also Read: 75% people worldwide want ban on single-use plastics, finds global survey As per a March 2021 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, the student was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of Massachusetts General Hospital as a result of "shock, multiple organ failure, and rash." × On eating leftovers of a restaurant meal, the student felt abdominal pain and nausea. He also started vomiting and experiencing chills, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, neck stiffness and blurry vision, as per the journal. His skin also developed a purplish discoloration. He was taken to hospital. The temperature of the person peaked at 105 degrees and heart rate was 166 beats per minute. His breathing worsened and was given oxygen. Also Read: Evidence of first ear surgery found in 5,300-year-old skull, say archaeologists Tests showed the person had Neisseria meningitidis. According to Dr Bernard, "when bacteria are present in the blood, the entire body’s blood vessels dilate, dropping the blood pressure preventing oxygen from getting to the organs." He faced many complications and had to undergo the amputation of parts of all 10 fingers and below his knees. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Eating leftovers lands US student in hospital to face worst nightmare

Tensions have ratcheted in eastern Ukraine following Russian recognition of independence of separatist regions, fears of an invasion are now growing in the countries. Recognition of the rebel-held territory's independence will effectively shatter the Minsk peace agreements. John Blaxland , International Affairs expert shares his views on the same.

Russia recognizes independence of Ukraine separatist regions, US condemns move

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