A big setback for former President Donald Trump as US Federal court rejected his appeal to withhold the White House's records related to the Capitol riots incident.

Capitol Riots: US Federal court rejects former President Donald Trump's appeal to withhold records

The city of Columbus, Ohio, announced Thursday that it had reached an agreement to pay $5.75 million to 32 plaintiffs who said that they were injured and that their constitutional rights were violated by members of the city’s police division during social justice protests in the summer of 2020.

After the killing of George Floyd last year, the plaintiffs were among many in Columbus who participated in protests that swept the country. The plaintiffs alleged in a lawsuit filed last year in US&nbsp;District Court in the Southern District of Ohio that officers with the Columbus Police Division had used excessive force against them and had violated their constitutional rights.

In announcing the settlement agreement, which is subject to City Council approval, the Columbus City Attorney’s Office said that during the protests the police had “made arrests and used force including, but not limited to, pepper spray, tear gas, wooden baton rounds, and sponge rounds.”

Some plaintiffs were “significantly injured” during the protests, Zach Klein, the city attorney, said in the statement, adding that it was “incumbent upon the city to accept responsibility and pay restitution.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/kamala-harris-never-uses-bluetooth-headphones-heres-why-435718">Also read |&nbsp;Kamala Harris never uses bluetooth headphones. Here's why</a>

“While this has certainly been a difficult and painful moment for our community, it has yielded important, and in some instances long overdue, reforms to policing practices, policies, and oversight,” said Klein, who noted that the money for the settlement would come from the city’s general fund.

“This settlement is a good step forward for both the Division of Police and for the entire community because it sets defined parameters and clear expectations for all when exercising and protecting First Amendment rights in Columbus,” he said.

Klein said that many Columbus police officers performed their jobs “professionally” during the protests, “but this litigation highlighted serious issues that must be addressed.”

Earlier this year, three Columbus police officers were charged with misconduct in connection with the protests, and Klein said that others could face charges.

Also this year, after an evidentiary hearing, Chief Judge Algenon L. Marbley of US District Court granted a preliminary injunction that barred the Columbus police from “using nonlethal force, including tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, wooden pellets, and more on nonviolent protesters,” according to a statement from the city.

As part of the settlement, the city would agree to make the injunction permanent.

In a statement, Tamara K. Alsaada, one of the plaintiffs in the case, said that “one of the problems we face with policing in America is the deep-seated hostility of law enforcement to anyone who questions or exposes the racism and violent attitudes of many within police departments.”

At least three of the plaintiffs sustained broken bones, according to court documents. Klein said that because each plaintiff had different injuries the settlement amount would not be split evenly, and that a mediator would determine damages and settlement amounts for each plaintiff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/father-son-duo-held-over-suspicion-of-starting-major-wildfire-in-us-state-435688">Also read |&nbsp;Father, son duo held over suspicion of starting major wildfire in US state</a>

In a statement, Robert Clark, director of the Columbus Department of Public Safety, said that the settlement was a “step toward” repairing relationships that “have been damaged.”

“We recognize what a painful chapter this has been for everyone involved, including the women and men of the Columbus Division of Police and the community we serve,” Clark said. “Before there can be healing, there must be accountability.”

Chanda Brown, a lawyer for demonstrators, said in a statement that change was needed to “address the reality that many officers target anyone who questions their authority.”

The city of Columbus, Ohio, announced Thursday that it had reached an agreement to pay $5.75 million to 32 plaintiffs who said that they were injured and that their constitutional rights were violated by members of the city’s police division during social justice protests in the summer of 2020.

The city of Columbus, Ohio, announced Thursday that it had reached an agreement to pay $5.75 million to 32 plaintiffs who said that they were injured and that their constitutional rights were violated by members of the city’s police division during social justice protests in the summer of 2020. After the killing of George Floyd last year, the plaintiffs were among many in Columbus who participated in protests that swept the country. The plaintiffs alleged in a lawsuit filed last year in US District Court in the Southern District of Ohio that officers with the Columbus Police Division had used excessive force against them and had violated their constitutional rights. In announcing the settlement agreement, which is subject to City Council approval, the Columbus City Attorney’s Office said that during the protests the police had “made arrests and used force including, but not limited to, pepper spray, tear gas, wooden baton rounds, and sponge rounds.” Some plaintiffs were “significantly injured” during the protests, Zach Klein, the city attorney, said in the statement, adding that it was “incumbent upon the city to accept responsibility and pay restitution.” Also read | Kamala Harris never uses bluetooth headphones. Here's why “While this has certainly been a difficult and painful moment for our community, it has yielded important, and in some instances long overdue, reforms to policing practices, policies, and oversight,” said Klein, who noted that the money for the settlement would come from the city’s general fund. “This settlement is a good step forward for both the Division of Police and for the entire community because it sets defined parameters and clear expectations for all when exercising and protecting First Amendment rights in Columbus,” he said. Klein said that many Columbus police officers performed their jobs “professionally” during the protests, “but this litigation highlighted serious issues that must be addressed.” Earlier this year, three Columbus police officers were charged with misconduct in connection with the protests, and Klein said that others could face charges. Also this year, after an evidentiary hearing, Chief Judge Algenon L. Marbley of US District Court granted a preliminary injunction that barred the Columbus police from “using nonlethal force, including tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, wooden pellets, and more on nonviolent protesters,” according to a statement from the city. As part of the settlement, the city would agree to make the injunction permanent. In a statement, Tamara K. Alsaada, one of the plaintiffs in the case, said that “one of the problems we face with policing in America is the deep-seated hostility of law enforcement to anyone who questions or exposes the racism and violent attitudes of many within police departments.” At least three of the plaintiffs sustained broken bones, according to court documents. Klein said that because each plaintiff had different injuries the settlement amount would not be split evenly, and that a mediator would determine damages and settlement amounts for each plaintiff. Also read | Father, son duo held over suspicion of starting major wildfire in US state In a statement, Robert Clark, director of the Columbus Department of Public Safety, said that the settlement was a “step toward” repairing relationships that “have been damaged.” “We recognize what a painful chapter this has been for everyone involved, including the women and men of the Columbus Division of Police and the community we serve,” Clark said. “Before there can be healing, there must be accountability.” Chanda Brown, a lawyer for demonstrators, said in a statement that change was needed to “address the reality that many officers target anyone who questions their authority.”

Columbus reaches $5.75 million settlement agreement with protesters

In what appears to be an intentional act to authorities, a car, which was driven by a woman, plunged into the Niagara river on Wednesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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NIAGARA FALLS ACTION: details are emerging as to how a vehicle became submerged in the Niagara River on Wednesday, December 8th, 2021, leading to the death of one individual. It is believed the vehicle entered the river near the Goat Island bridge entrance. <a href="https://t.co/WNGmViu3ej">pic.twitter.com/WNGmViu3ej</a>
— Niagara Action (@NiagaraAction) <a href="https://twitter.com/NiagaraAction/status/1468740219583311874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The incident led to a prompt recovery by the US Coast Guard officials. The body of the woman, who was in her late 60s, was pulled from the car. The vehicle was only 50 yards from the brink of the fall. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/father-son-duo-held-over-suspicion-of-starting-major-wildfire-in-us-state-435688" hreflang="en">Father, son duo held over suspicion of starting major wildfire in US state</a>

Although the New York State Park Police is still investigating, a spokesperson for the New York State Parks seemed to think the vehicle was intentionally driven by the woman into the Niagara river. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEW</a> video from the <a href="https://twitter.com/USCGGreatLakes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCGGreatLakes</a> shows the view of the helicopter crew that pulled a local woman in her late 60s from her car in the Niagara River Wednesday, about 50 yards from the brink of the (American) Niagara Falls. (1/3) <a href="https://twitter.com/WGRZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WGRZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/NQNCz7VjY8">pic.twitter.com/NQNCz7VjY8</a>
— Robert Hackford (@Robert_Hackford) <a href="https://twitter.com/Robert_Hackford/status/1469103363656921089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The spokesperson said, "The New York State Park Police investigation into yesterday’s incident of the vehicle entering the Niagara river is still ongoing. At this point in the investigation, entry into the water appears to be an intentional act." &nbsp;

Several videos, pictures and posts have come up on social media. The incident seems to have caught attention of many users. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fighting-lunacy-with-lunacy-sneak-a-peek-into-a-gen-z-fuelled-conspiracy-theory-birds-arent-real-in-us-435706" hreflang="en">'Fighting lunacy with lunacy': Sneak a peek into a Gen Z-fuelled conspiracy theory ‘Birds Aren’t Real’ in US</a>

The woman, who used to live in the Western New York area, was declared dead. She has yet not been identified through the medical examiner or coroner offices. &nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50aa8055-db4b-444a-b39f-9243896e2ef8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Niagra%202.jpg" />

In rescue operation, the power authority lowered the water levels in the river while drones and the Niagara County Sheriff helicopter were also used for extraction. The vehicle was still in the river. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what appears to be an intentional act to authorities, a car, which was driven by a woman, plunged into the Niagara river on Wednesday. NIAGARA FALLS ACTION: details are emerging as to how a vehicle became submerged in the Niagara River on Wednesday, December 8th, 2021, leading to the death of one individual.

In what appears to be an intentional act to authorities, a car, which was driven by a woman, plunged into the Niagara river on Wednesday. NIAGARA FALLS ACTION: details are emerging as to how a vehicle became submerged in the Niagara River on Wednesday, December 8th, 2021, leading to the death of one individual. It is believed the vehicle entered the river near the Goat Island bridge entrance. pic.twitter.com/WNGmViu3ej — Niagara Action (@NiagaraAction) December 9, 2021 × The incident led to a prompt recovery by the US Coast Guard officials. The body of the woman, who was in her late 60s, was pulled from the car. The vehicle was only 50 yards from the brink of the fall. Also Read: Father, son duo held over suspicion of starting major wildfire in US state Although the New York State Park Police is still investigating, a spokesperson for the New York State Parks seemed to think the vehicle was intentionally driven by the woman into the Niagara river. #NEW video from the @USCGGreatLakes shows the view of the helicopter crew that pulled a local woman in her late 60s from her car in the Niagara River Wednesday, about 50 yards from the brink of the (American) Niagara Falls. (1/3) @WGRZ pic.twitter.com/NQNCz7VjY8 — Robert Hackford (@Robert_Hackford) December 10, 2021 × The spokesperson said, "The New York State Park Police investigation into yesterday’s incident of the vehicle entering the Niagara river is still ongoing. At this point in the investigation, entry into the water appears to be an intentional act." Several videos, pictures and posts have come up on social media. The incident seems to have caught attention of many users. Also Read: 'Fighting lunacy with lunacy': Sneak a peek into a Gen Z-fuelled conspiracy theory ‘Birds Aren’t Real’ in US The woman, who used to live in the Western New York area, was declared dead. She has yet not been identified through the medical examiner or coroner offices. In rescue operation, the power authority lowered the water levels in the river while drones and the Niagara County Sheriff helicopter were also used for extraction. The vehicle was still in the river. (With inputs from agencies)

Intentional? US rescuers pull out woman’s body after car plunges into Niagara river

The US Food and Drug Administration has now issued an emergency use authorisation for AstraZeneca's Evusheld to prevent people from the deadly coronavirus. Evusheld comprises two types of synthetic antibodies - tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is given as two intramuscular injections.

"The product is only authorised for those individuals who are not currently infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and who have not recently been exposed to an individual infected with SARS-CoV-2," read the statement issued by FDA.&nbsp;

It can only be used if the person has required prerequisites, including moderate to severely compromised immune systems because of a particular medical condition. Also, when there is a history of severe adverse reactions to a Covid vaccine.&nbsp;

The authorisation came after a clinical trial under which 3,500 people were given the drug while 1,700 received a placebo. It was then concluded that the treatment cut the risk of developing Covid by 77 per cent.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-threatens-russia-with-severe-sanctions-if-ukraine-is-attacked-435291">Also read |&nbsp;Biden threatens Russia with 'severe sanctions' if Ukraine is attacked; US troops not to be involved</a>

Patrizia Cavazzoni, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, in a press release by FDA, said, “Vaccines have proven to be the best ddefence available against COVID-19. However, there are certain immune-compromised individuals who may not mount an adequate immune response to COVID-19 vaccination, or those who have a history of severe adverse reactions to a COVID-19 vaccine and therefore cannot receive one and need an alternative prevention option."

This is the first time that the FDA has given emergency authorisation for purely preventative treatment.&nbsp;

Side effects of Evusheld range from hypersensitivity reactions, bleeding at the injection site, headache, fatigue and cough.

Few trial participants also suffered from serious cardiac adverse events after receiving Evusheld. All of these participants had risk factors for cardiac disease or a history of cardiovascular disease before participating in the clinical trial.&nbsp;However, it is not yet clear if Evusheld caused these.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Food and Drug Administration has now issued an emergency use authorisation for AstraZeneca's Evusheld to prevent people from the deadly coronavirus. Evusheld comprises two types of synthetic antibodies - tixagevimab and cilgavimab.

The US Food and Drug Administration has now issued an emergency use authorisation for AstraZeneca's Evusheld to prevent people from the deadly coronavirus. Evusheld comprises two types of synthetic antibodies - tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is given as two intramuscular injections. "The product is only authorised for those individuals who are not currently infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and who have not recently been exposed to an individual infected with SARS-CoV-2," read the statement issued by FDA. It can only be used if the person has required prerequisites, including moderate to severely compromised immune systems because of a particular medical condition. Also, when there is a history of severe adverse reactions to a Covid vaccine. The authorisation came after a clinical trial under which 3,500 people were given the drug while 1,700 received a placebo. It was then concluded that the treatment cut the risk of developing Covid by 77 per cent. Also read | Biden threatens Russia with 'severe sanctions' if Ukraine is attacked; US troops not to be involved Patrizia Cavazzoni, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, in a press release by FDA, said, “Vaccines have proven to be the best ddefence available against COVID-19. However, there are certain immune-compromised individuals who may not mount an adequate immune response to COVID-19 vaccination, or those who have a history of severe adverse reactions to a COVID-19 vaccine and therefore cannot receive one and need an alternative prevention option." This is the first time that the FDA has given emergency authorisation for purely preventative treatment. Side effects of Evusheld range from hypersensitivity reactions, bleeding at the injection site, headache, fatigue and cough. Few trial participants also suffered from serious cardiac adverse events after receiving Evusheld. All of these participants had risk factors for cardiac disease or a history of cardiovascular disease before participating in the clinical trial. However, it is not yet clear if Evusheld caused these. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: In a first, FDA authorises AstraZeneca's Evusheld as a purely preventative treatment

US President Joe Biden flags off his ambitious 2-day long virtual Democracy Summit. World leaders from over 100 nations are in attendance. Biden has urged democracies to uphold democratic values.

US President Joe Biden flags off virtual Democracy Summit

After coming under fire for insulting 900 people he had just laid off, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg sent an email to the company's remaining employees on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The CEO of a digital mortgage lender based in the United States has apologised to existing staff for how he handled the situation.&nbsp;

"I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better. I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you," Garg said in the letter to current employees.

An employee shared a video of Garg's Zoom conversation on December 1st, during which he fired around 900 SoftBank-backed staff.

The dismissals were attributed to market conditions and a drop in the company's performance, according to the CEO.

Since the firings, the entrepreneur, who is also the founder of Better.com, has been in the middle of a storm, particularly owing to the manner in which they were announced. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ceo-abruptly-terminates-over-900-employees-in-us-and-india-over-zoom-call-434583">Watch | CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call</a> 
 
The dismissed employees made up 9% of the company's entire staff and were dispersed across the US and India.&nbsp;

According to Bloomberg, the mortgage lender also pushed back its public offering through a merger with Aurora Acquisition, a blank-check provider, after modifying the transaction a day before it laid off some of its employees.

According to Bloomberg, the corporation will seek additional regulatory permission after amending the merger conditions.

This will delay the transaction's completion, which the firms had previously stated would take place in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ceo-fires-900-people-on-zoom-call-434726/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

After coming under fire for insulting 900 people he had just laid off, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg sent an email to the company's remaining employees on Tuesday afternoon.

After coming under fire for insulting 900 people he had just laid off, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg sent an email to the company's remaining employees on Tuesday afternoon. The CEO of a digital mortgage lender based in the United States has apologised to existing staff for how he handled the situation. "I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better. I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you," Garg said in the letter to current employees. An employee shared a video of Garg's Zoom conversation on December 1st, during which he fired around 900 SoftBank-backed staff. The dismissals were attributed to market conditions and a drop in the company's performance, according to the CEO. Since the firings, the entrepreneur, who is also the founder of Better.com, has been in the middle of a storm, particularly owing to the manner in which they were announced. Watch | CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call The dismissed employees made up 9% of the company's entire staff and were dispersed across the US and India. According to Bloomberg, the mortgage lender also pushed back its public offering through a merger with Aurora Acquisition, a blank-check provider, after modifying the transaction a day before it laid off some of its employees. According to Bloomberg, the corporation will seek additional regulatory permission after amending the merger conditions. This will delay the transaction's completion, which the firms had previously stated would take place in the fourth quarter. (With inputs from agencies)

'I embarrassed you': Better.com CEO apologises for laying off 900 via zoom call

President Joe Biden is to sign an order Wednesday to make the federal government carbon neutral by 2050 via a panoply of clean-energy initiatives including electric vehicles and environmentally friendly buildings.&nbsp;

The executive order, announced by the White House, directs the government to replace its fleet of gas-guzzling vehicles with electric cars and trucks by 2035 and ensure federal buildings are carbon-free by 2045.

"The president is building on his whole-of-government effort to tackle the climate crisis in a way that creates well-paying jobs, grows industries, and makes the country more economically competitive," the Biden administration said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-threatens-russia-with-severe-sanctions-if-ukraine-is-attacked-435291" hreflang="en">Biden threatens Russia with 'severe sanctions' if Ukraine is attacked</a>

The potential impact of the order can hardly be overstated. The government owns or leases some 300,000 buildings of all ages, and runs a fleet of 600,000 vehicles.

Aiming to achieve a 65 per cent reduction in planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions within a decade, it is the latest in a number of initiatives the president has announced to limit the country's environmental impact.

"The executive order will reduce emissions across federal operations, invest in American clean energy industries and manufacturing, and create clean, healthy, and resilient communities," the administration added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/forced-labour-us-house-passes-law-to-ban-imports-from-chinas-xinjiang-435293">'Forced labour': US House passes law to ban imports from China's Xinjiang</a>

The reforms would help Biden honor his pledge to world leaders at a UN gathering in Glasgow last month to slash US greenhouse gas emissions by more than half.

Biden signed a sweeping infrastructure package last month that includes $7.5 billion for a network of electric vehicle chargers and Congress is negotiating an even bigger social welfare bill that would provide more than $500 billion to fight climate change.

A "buy clean" program will prioritize products made and shipped with low greenhouse gas emissions, the White House said.

But the proposals are likely to meet with opposition from business groups and Republican lawmakers who typically oppose federal measures to curb climate change

President Joe Biden is to sign an order Wednesday to make the federal government carbon neutral by 2050 via a panoply of clean-energy initiatives including electric vehicles and environmentally friendly buildings.

President Joe Biden is to sign an order Wednesday to make the federal government carbon neutral by 2050 via a panoply of clean-energy initiatives including electric vehicles and environmentally friendly buildings. The executive order, announced by the White House, directs the government to replace its fleet of gas-guzzling vehicles with electric cars and trucks by 2035 and ensure federal buildings are carbon-free by 2045. "The president is building on his whole-of-government effort to tackle the climate crisis in a way that creates well-paying jobs, grows industries, and makes the country more economically competitive," the Biden administration said in a statement. Also read | Biden threatens Russia with 'severe sanctions' if Ukraine is attacked The potential impact of the order can hardly be overstated. The government owns or leases some 300,000 buildings of all ages, and runs a fleet of 600,000 vehicles. Aiming to achieve a 65 per cent reduction in planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions within a decade, it is the latest in a number of initiatives the president has announced to limit the country's environmental impact. "The executive order will reduce emissions across federal operations, invest in American clean energy industries and manufacturing, and create clean, healthy, and resilient communities," the administration added. Also read | 'Forced labour': US House passes law to ban imports from China's Xinjiang The reforms would help Biden honor his pledge to world leaders at a UN gathering in Glasgow last month to slash US greenhouse gas emissions by more than half. Biden signed a sweeping infrastructure package last month that includes $7.5 billion for a network of electric vehicle chargers and Congress is negotiating an even bigger social welfare bill that would provide more than $500 billion to fight climate change. A "buy clean" program will prioritize products made and shipped with low greenhouse gas emissions, the White House said. But the proposals are likely to meet with opposition from business groups and Republican lawmakers who typically oppose federal measures to curb climate change

Biden calls for carbon neutral federal government by 2050

After the head of Instagram was grilled for compromising children safety on social media, Instagram plans an updated version of the app that shows users chronological feed instead of an algorithm-based one.

New version of the Instagram app to show users chronological feed instead of an Algorithm-based one

A pastor in US who made an appearance in a drag costume wearing sequined leotard and huge pink wig has been removed from his pastoral duties as per a church official in Indiana.

Craig Duke (62), the pastor, appeared on an HBO show 'We're Here' wearing high-heeled thigh boots, lipstick and purple eyeshadow. He had a crucifix around his neck.

The Methodist reverend described the appearance as "an incredibly wonderful, refreshing, deepening, powerful spiritual experience," in an interview with the Religion News Service.

Having received "numerous calls and emails that are highly critical of Craig’s actions," Mitch Gieselman, the district superintendent of the church in Evansville, Indiana, said he had decided to relieve Duke of pastoral duties and "significantly reduced" his salary.

But Gieselman said he had not been fired nor had he resigned.

"He has not been found to have committed any chargeable offense or other violation of the United Methodist Book of Discipline," Gieselman said in a letter to parishioners.&nbsp;

Contacted by AFP on Wednesday, Gieselman declined to make any further comments.&nbsp;

The pastor's fate caused a surge of emotion, sparking an online fundraiser that raised nearly $60,000 in donations on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"May the bridge of understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ community continue to expand across our community and beyond as God's love shines through," the pastor and his partner Linda said in a statement.&nbsp;

He did not regret his moment in the spotlight.&nbsp;

"I was surrounded and immersed in a culture that I've never been immersed in, and one of the things in ministry, if you want to involve people different than yourself in your ministry, you have to go to where people different than you are," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A pastor in US who made an appearance in a drag costume wearing sequined leotard and huge pink wig has been removed from his pastoral duties as per a church official in Indiana.

A pastor in US who made an appearance in a drag costume wearing sequined leotard and huge pink wig has been removed from his pastoral duties as per a church official in Indiana. Craig Duke (62), the pastor, appeared on an HBO show 'We're Here' wearing high-heeled thigh boots, lipstick and purple eyeshadow. He had a crucifix around his neck. The Methodist reverend described the appearance as "an incredibly wonderful, refreshing, deepening, powerful spiritual experience," in an interview with the Religion News Service. Having received "numerous calls and emails that are highly critical of Craig’s actions," Mitch Gieselman, the district superintendent of the church in Evansville, Indiana, said he had decided to relieve Duke of pastoral duties and "significantly reduced" his salary. But Gieselman said he had not been fired nor had he resigned. "He has not been found to have committed any chargeable offense or other violation of the United Methodist Book of Discipline," Gieselman said in a letter to parishioners. Contacted by AFP on Wednesday, Gieselman declined to make any further comments. The pastor's fate caused a surge of emotion, sparking an online fundraiser that raised nearly $60,000 in donations on Wednesday. "May the bridge of understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ community continue to expand across our community and beyond as God's love shines through," the pastor and his partner Linda said in a statement. He did not regret his moment in the spotlight. "I was surrounded and immersed in a culture that I've never been immersed in, and one of the things in ministry, if you want to involve people different than yourself in your ministry, you have to go to where people different than you are," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US pastor appears in drag costume on TV, loses pastoral duties

In a welcome move, the US makes it mandatory for most families residing in California state to recycle food scraps into compost or energy. Locals are happy with the rule and are ready to comply.

The US makes it mandatory for most people in California to recycle food scrap into compost or energy

US President Joe Biden is convenes the first-ever White House Summit for Democracy with countries around the world invited to take part in a discussion of how to reverse the “recession” of democratic values that’s been a trend in recent years.

US President Joe Biden hosts the Summit for Democracy with world leaders

After the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom has announced a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Games. This comes after the IOC said it can't provide "any certainties" regarding the well-being of Peng Shuai. Palki Sharma asks: Why is India backing the tainted event?

Gravitas: #GencoideOlympics: Why India should boycott the Winter Games

California state police arrests the father-son duo responsible for raging the massive Caldor wildfire back in October that destroyed many homes and forced people to flee. However, the duo claims that it was an accident.

California state police arrests father-son duo for raging massive Caldor wildfire back in October

The dress sword carried by Napoleon Bonaparte when he staged a coup in 1799 and five of his firearms sold at auction for nearly $2.9 million in the United States.

Napoleon Bonaparte's sword, 5 pistols sold at the US auction for $2.9 mn

China has warned Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, saying that nations would "pay the price" for the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

China has warned Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, saying that nations would "pay the price" for the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. On Monday (December 6), the US announced a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics citing reports of 'egregious' human rights violations, which China has denied repeatedly. Hours after the United States' announcement, Australia, the UK and Canada also confirmed that they will not send government officials to the Games, which will be held between February 4 to February 20 next year. ALSO READ | Canada announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics citing human rights violations by China However, the athletes of the mentioned countries will participate as scheduled. In the aftermath, Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson at the Chinese foreign ministry told a regular news conference: "The United States, Britain and Australia have used the Olympics platform for political manipulation. They will have to pay the price for their mistaken acts." Meanwhile, France on Thursday said it will not be boycotting the Games, adding that violations of human rights in China must be condemned. French Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told BFM TV: "As for a diplomatic boycott... France will not do it... Sports is a world in itself, which must be protected from political interference, otherwise... we can end up by killing the competition." It is important to note that International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach said Wednesday (December 8) that he was staying politically neutral on the matter. He insisted that the important point is the "participation of the athletes in the Olympic Games". ALSO READ | British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announces 'diplomatic boycott' of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 Chinese Embassy in Australia reacts to diplomatic boycott The Chinese Embassy in Australia issued a statement saying that 'mountains can not stop the river from flowing into the sea' afrer Australia's decision. In the statement, the embassy blamed Australia for the current predicament of China-Australia relations, stating that the onus lies "squarely on the Australian side". Wishing the Australian athletes "excellent performance" for the Winter Olympics, the embassy said that they believe athletes will witness a streamlined and safe Olympics in China. (With inputs from agencies)

Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'

Canada joined a growing list of countries refusing to send government officials to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The US, UK and Australia have already said that they won't send official delegations to the Games in response to China's human rights violations against Uyghurs.

Canada joins US, UK & Australia in diplomatic boycott of Beijing Olympics

A day after the virtual meet over the Ukraine issue, US President Joe Biden said that it is not an option to send US troops to Ukraine without the support of NATO allies amid invasion fears from Russia. Meanwhile, Russia denies any such invasion plans.

Tensions between US & Russia remain high despite Biden's decision not to send US troops to Ukraine

Watch Director of International Institute of counter-terrorism, Boaz Ganor analyzing Iran's ongoing effort to restore the 2015 Nuclear deal.

Top counter-terrorism expert speaks to WION on Iran seeking revival of 2015 Nuclear deal

US President Joe Biden said that the US is refraining from sending its soldiers to Ukraine without the support of its NATO allies. US-Russia tensions have been boiling up because of Ukraine, which faces an Invasion threat from Russia.

US President Joe Biden: Sending US troops to Ukraine without NATO allies' support not an option

Pakistan has turned down US' invitation for the Summit for Democracy, an event hosted by Joe Biden with representatives from more than 100 countries.

Pakistan declines invitation to Summit for Democracy by US

US and Israeli defence cheifs are set to discuss possible military drills to practice destroying Iranian nuclear facilities in a potential worst-case scenario.

US, Israel to discuss military drills to prepare for worst-case Iran scenario

Pakistan has turned down US' invitation for the Summit for Democracy, an event hosted by Joe Biden with representatives from more than 100 countries. As per a statement issued by the country's Foreign Office, Pakistan thanked the US for the invitation. However, it said that it would engage with the country on a wide range of issues "at an opportune time in the future."&nbsp;

Geo TV quoted Pakistan's Foreign Office as saying, "We remain deeply committed to further deepening democracy, fighting corruption, and protecting, and promoting the human rights of all citizens. In recent years, Pakistan has instituted wide-ranging reforms aimed at advancing these goals. These reforms have yielded positive results."

The statement further highlighted how Pakistan values the partnership between the two nations. "Pakistan will, meanwhile, continue to support all efforts aimed towards strengthening dialogue, constructive engagement, and international cooperation for the advancement of our shared goals," the statement concluded.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-democracy-summit-100-nations-invited-china-russia-see-red-after-being-left-out-435351">Also read |&nbsp;Biden's Democracy Summit: 100+ nations invited, China &amp; Russia see red after being left out</a>

The event, which is set to take place on December 9 and 10 has drawn criticism from countries like China and Russia. However, the US sees the summit as a "galvanizing moment" for world democracies to address pressing challenges.&nbsp;

It will be opened by President Biden at the White House and will bring together participants from over 100 countries. It will also include NGOs, businesses, philanthropic organizations and legislators.

"Make no mistake, we're at a moment of democratic reckoning," said Uzra Zeya, the Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights. "It's no secret that democracies around the world are facing increasing challenges from new and novel threats. Countries in virtually every region of the world have experienced degrees of democratic backsliding," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan has turned down US' invitation for the Summit for Democracy, an event hosted by Joe Biden with representatives from more than 100 countries. As per a statement issued by the country's Foreign Office, Pakistan thanked the US for the invitation.

Pakistan has turned down US' invitation for the Summit for Democracy, an event hosted by Joe Biden with representatives from more than 100 countries. As per a statement issued by the country's Foreign Office, Pakistan thanked the US for the invitation. However, it said that it would engage with the country on a wide range of issues "at an opportune time in the future." Geo TV quoted Pakistan's Foreign Office as saying, "We remain deeply committed to further deepening democracy, fighting corruption, and protecting, and promoting the human rights of all citizens. In recent years, Pakistan has instituted wide-ranging reforms aimed at advancing these goals. These reforms have yielded positive results." The statement further highlighted how Pakistan values the partnership between the two nations. "Pakistan will, meanwhile, continue to support all efforts aimed towards strengthening dialogue, constructive engagement, and international cooperation for the advancement of our shared goals," the statement concluded. Also read | Biden's Democracy Summit: 100+ nations invited, China & Russia see red after being left out The event, which is set to take place on December 9 and 10 has drawn criticism from countries like China and Russia. However, the US sees the summit as a "galvanizing moment" for world democracies to address pressing challenges. It will be opened by President Biden at the White House and will bring together participants from over 100 countries. It will also include NGOs, businesses, philanthropic organizations and legislators. "Make no mistake, we're at a moment of democratic reckoning," said Uzra Zeya, the Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights. "It's no secret that democracies around the world are facing increasing challenges from new and novel threats. Countries in virtually every region of the world have experienced degrees of democratic backsliding," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

'At an opportune time in the future': Pakistan declines invitation to Summit for Democracy by US

Metropolitan Museum of art in New York showcases European art pieces such as teapots which inspired many Walt Disney's classic animated movies over the years.

Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases iconic teapots that inspired Walt Disney's animations

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Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'

Canada joins US, UK & Australia in diplomatic boycott of Beijing Olympics

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'At an opportune time in the future': Pakistan declines invitation to Summit for Democracy by US

Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases iconic teapots that inspired Walt Disney's animations