A Congressional panel report has clearly held former US president Donald Trump responsible for the unprecedented attack on Capitol Building in Washington DC. The report paves the way to try Trump as he engineered the events leading up to the riots.&nbsp;

The report lists 17 specific findings, discusses the legal implications of actions by Trump and some of his associates.

The deadly attack of January 6, 2021 followed weeks of Trump's claims that he had won the US Presidential Election 2020 and that the election was rigged in favour of President Joe Biden.

The report contains allegations that Trump himself "oversaw" the dubious effort of claiming that the elections were rigged. “In the Committee’s hearings, we presented evidence of what ultimately became a multi-part plan to overturn the 2020 Presidential election,” says the report from the US House of Representatives select committee, released on Thursday.

“That evidence has led to an overriding and straight forward conclusion: the central cause of January 6th was one man, former President Donald Trump, whom many others followed. None of the events of January 6th would have happened without him.”

The House committee, comprising both Democrats and Republicans, prepared the 845-page report after 1,000-plus interviews, examination of a large number of documents, phone records, texts and more.

Watch | Capitol Hill Riots probe: No end to Trump's troubles; Jan 6 panel releases witness testimony

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The committee had also subpoenaed Trump to testify before it. The former president declined. The panel has made a recommendation to the US Justice Department that criminal charges be filed against Trump. This is the first time ever that such a recommendation has been made against a former president.

Trump has termed the investigation carried out by the committee a "witch hunt".

Shortly before Trump supporters attacked the Capitol, Trump had addressed them in a rally. He had also said that he would "march with them" to Capitol Hill but ultimately did not.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tax-filings-to-be-made-public-votes-us-house-panel-544961">Donald Trump's tax filings to be made public, votes US House panel</a> 
 
The committee report also states that Trump did not act quickly to pacify his supporters.&nbsp;On January 6, 2021, the first tweet from Trump appealing to his supporters to stand down came more than an hour after the chaos unfolded.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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&nbsp;

A Congressional panel report has clearly held former US president Donald Trump responsible for the unprecedented attack on Capitol Building in Washington DC. The report paves the way to try Trump as he engineered the events leading up to the riots.

A Congressional panel report has clearly held former US president Donald Trump responsible for the unprecedented attack on Capitol Building in Washington DC. The report paves the way to try Trump as he engineered the events leading up to the riots. The report lists 17 specific findings, discusses the legal implications of actions by Trump and some of his associates. The deadly attack of January 6, 2021 followed weeks of Trump's claims that he had won the US Presidential Election 2020 and that the election was rigged in favour of President Joe Biden. The report contains allegations that Trump himself "oversaw" the dubious effort of claiming that the elections were rigged. “In the Committee’s hearings, we presented evidence of what ultimately became a multi-part plan to overturn the 2020 Presidential election,” says the report from the US House of Representatives select committee, released on Thursday. “That evidence has led to an overriding and straight forward conclusion: the central cause of January 6th was one man, former President Donald Trump, whom many others followed. None of the events of January 6th would have happened without him.” The House committee, comprising both Democrats and Republicans, prepared the 845-page report after 1,000-plus interviews, examination of a large number of documents, phone records, texts and more. Watch | Capitol Hill Riots probe: No end to Trump's troubles; Jan 6 panel releases witness testimony × The committee had also subpoenaed Trump to testify before it. The former president declined. The panel has made a recommendation to the US Justice Department that criminal charges be filed against Trump. This is the first time ever that such a recommendation has been made against a former president. Trump has termed the investigation carried out by the committee a "witch hunt". Shortly before Trump supporters attacked the Capitol, Trump had addressed them in a rally. He had also said that he would "march with them" to Capitol Hill but ultimately did not. Also Read | Donald Trump's tax filings to be made public, votes US House panel The committee report also states that Trump did not act quickly to pacify his supporters. On January 6, 2021, the first tweet from Trump appealing to his supporters to stand down came more than an hour after the chaos unfolded. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

January 6 panel's final report sets out case to try Donald Trump for Capitol riot role

The US Congress has passed nearly $1.7 trillion spending bill, most likely averting a partial government shutdown. The House of the presentaters passed the bill on Friday with 225 votes to 201. It will now go to President Joe Biden who will need to sign it before the midnight deadline.

US: Congress passes $1.7 trillion spending bill, aims at averting govt shutdown

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the US Congress on 22nd December with his historic speech which was approximately 25 minutes long. The address came at a time when Ukraine has been going through a tough time with Russia along with looming energy crises in the country.&nbsp;Zelensky's passionate pleas for the US and larger global support for Ukraine for the ongoing border conflict were often mixed with doses of humour in the speech.

The speech was of approximately 25 minutes and ended by unfluring the Ukrainian battle flag. Right before the speech was started, President Zelensky received prolonged and thunderous applause from the US Congress,&nbsp;to which Zelensky replied "It's too much for me".&nbsp;Here is the gist of Zelensky's&nbsp;historic speech in 8&nbsp;points:

1. He started off by thanking and presenting gratitude to the&nbsp;American people and the US government and both the US parties for their support of Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia and said that he is "very privileged to be here" in the US Congress.&nbsp;

2.&nbsp;After acknowledging the support of the Representatives of the Diaspora, for which he and the Representatives of the Diaspora&nbsp;received a standing ovation, he then said that against all odds, Ukraine is still standing holding his head high. That despite all the doom and gloom, Ukraine and its people are "alive and kicking", which was followed by another bipartisan standing ovation.

3. He talked about their victory over Russia saying that Ukraine fears no one and that everyone in the world should be fearless when it comes to defending its country. He further said that Ukraine's victory will inspire the entire world just like America's victory has united the global community to protect freedom and international law.&nbsp;

4.&nbsp;The Ukrainian president expressed gratitude to the US for sending artillery, but stated that his military requires more cannons and shells to push back Russian forces rather than simply prevent further advances: "Is it enough? "Honestly, not really",&nbsp;Zelensky said.

Watch |&nbsp;Zelensky addresses the US Congress, declares 'Ukraine is alive'

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5.&nbsp;Zelensky also requested US assistance in preventing Russia from using Iranian-supplied drones, warning that it is "just a matter of time before they strike against your other allies" and stated that advanced Patriot missile systems, which the US has offered to begin sending to Ukraine this week, will help deflect Russian air attacks on Ukrainian cities.

6.&nbsp;He stated that Ukraine does not expect the US to deploy its own forces to fight Russia, but he assured Ukrainians that they can operate US-made aircraft and tanks (the Biden administration has sent tanks to Ukraine, but is wary of offering aircraft).&nbsp;

7.&nbsp;During his speech, Zelensky repeatedly referred to American history, comparing recent Ukrainian struggles to the Revolutionary War's Battle of Saratoga and World War II's Battle of the Bulge, and quoted wartime President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

8.&nbsp;Towards the end of his speech, Zelensky handed a Ukrainian flag signed by service members in the eastern Ukrainian frontline town of Bakhmut to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in exchange for a framed American flag flown over the Capitol.

Zelensky's visit to Washington, D.C., is his first known foreign trip since Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, though he spoke to Congress virtually in March and met with U.S. lawmakers during a series of congressional visits to Kyiv.

<h2>Read the full speech by the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky here:&nbsp;</h2>

Dear Americans!

In all states, cities and communities. All those who value freedom and justice. Who cherish it as strongly, as we, Ukrainians, in all our cities, in each and every family. I hope my words of respect and gratitude resonate in each American heart!

Madam Vice President, I thank you for your efforts in helping Ukraine! Madam Speaker, you bravely visited Ukraine during the full-fledged war, thank you very much! It is a great honor, a great privilege to be here!

Dear members of the Congress – representatives of both parties – who also visited Kyiv! Esteemed Congressmen and Senators – from both parties – who will visit Ukraine, I’m sure, in the future! Dear representatives of diaspora – present in this chamber and spread across the country! Dear journalists!

It's a great honor for me to be at the U.S. Congress and speak to you and all Americans!

Against all odds and doom and gloom scenarios, Ukraine did not fall. Ukraine is alive and kicking.

And it gives me good reason to share with you our first joint victory – we defeated Russia in the battle for minds of the world. We have no fear. Nor should anyone in the world have it.

Ukrainians gained this victory – and it gives us courage, which inspires the entire world.

Americans gained this victory – and that's why you have succeeded in uniting the global community to protect freedom and international law.

Europeans gained this victory – and that's why Europe is now stronger and more independent than ever.

The Russian tyranny has lost control over us and it will never influence our minds again.

Yet, we have to do whatever it takes to ensure that countries of the Global South also gain such victory.

I know one more thing – the Russians will stand a chance to be free only when they defeat the Kremlin in their minds.

Yet, the battle continues! And we have to defeat the Kremlin on the battlefield.

This battle is not only for the territory – for this or another part of Europe. This battle is not only for life, freedom and security of Ukrainians or any other nation, which Russia attempts to conquer. This struggle will define – in what world our children and grandchildren will live and then – their children and grandchildren. It will define whether it will be a democracy – for Ukrainians and for Americans – for all.

This battle cannot be frozen or postponed. It cannot be ignored hoping that the ocean or something else will provide a protection.

From the United States to China, from Europe to Latin America, and from Africa to Australia – the world is too interconnected and interdependent to allow someone to stay aside – and at the same time – to feel safe when such a battle continues.

Our two nations are Allies in this battle.

And next year will be a turning point. The point, when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom. The freedom of people, who stand for their values.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Americans!

Yesterday – before coming here to Washington DC – I was at the frontline, in our Bakhmut. In our stronghold in the East of Ukraine – in the Donbas.

The Russian military and mercenaries have been attacking Bakhmut non-stop since May. They have been attacking it day and night. But Bakhmut stands.

Last year seventy thousand people lived there in Bakhmut and now only few civilians stay.

Every inch of that land is soaked in blood. Roaring guns sound every hour. Trenches in the Donbas change hands several times a day in fierce combat and even hand fighting. But the Ukrainian Donbas stands.

Russians use everything they have against Bakhmut and our other beautiful cities.

The occupiers have a significant advantage in artillery. They have an advantage in ammunition. They have much more missiles and planes than we ever had.

But our Defense Forces stand. And we all are proud of them.

The Russian tactic is primitive. They burn down and destroy everything they see. They sent thugs to the frontlines. They sent convicts to the war...

They threw everything against us – similar to the other tyranny, which in the Battle of the Bulge threw everything it had against the free world. Just like the brave American soldiers, which held their lines and fought back Hitler’s forces during the Christmas of 1944, brave Ukrainian soldiers are doing the same to Putin’s forces this Christmas. Ukraine holds its lines and will never surrender!

So, here is the frontline – the tyranny, which has no lack of cruelty – against the lives of free people.

And your support is crucial – not just to stand in such fights, but to get to the turning point. To win on the battlefield.

We have artillery. Yes. Thank you. Is it enough? Honestly, not really. To ensure Bakhmut is not just a stronghold that holds back the Russian army – but for the Russian army to completely pull out – more cannons and shells are needed.

If so, just like the battle of Saratoga, the fight for Bakhmut will change the trajectory of our war for independence and freedom.

If your «Patriots» stop the Russian terror against our cities, it will let Ukrainian patriots work to the full to defend our freedom.

When Russia cannot reach our cities by its artillery, it tries to destroy them with missile attacks. More than that, Russia found an Ally in its genocidal policy – Iran.

Iranian deadly drones, sent to Russia in hundreds, became a threat to our critical infrastructure. That is how one terrorist has found the other. It is just a matter of time – when they will strike against your other allies, if we do not stop them now. We must do it!

I believe there should be no taboos between us in our alliance. Ukraine never asked the American soldiers to fight on our land instead of us. I assure you that Ukrainian soldiers can perfectly operate American tanks and planes themselves.

Financial assistance is also critically important. And I would like to thank you for both, financial packages you have already provided us with, and the ones you may be willing to decide on. Your money is not charity. It's an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way. &nbsp;

Russia could stop its aggression if it wanted to, but you can speed up our victory. I know it.

And it will prove to any potential aggressor that no one can succeed in breaking national borders, committing atrocities and reigning over people against their will.

It would be naive to wait for steps towards peace from Russia – which enjoys being a terrorist state. Russians are still poisoned by the Kremlin.

The restoration of international legal order is our joint task. We need peace. Ukraine has already offered proposals, which I just discussed with President Biden – our Peace Formula.

Ten points, which should and must be implemented for our joint security – guaranteed for decades ahead.

And the Summit, which can be held.

I am glad to stress that President Biden supported our peace initiative today. Each of you, ladies and gentlemen, can assist in its implementation – to ensure that America’s leadership remains solid, bicameral and bipartisan.

You can strengthen sanctions to make Russia feel how ruinous its aggression truly is.

It is in your power to help us bring to justice everyone, who started this unprovoked and criminal war. Let's do it!

Let the terrorist state be held responsible for its terror and aggression, and compensate all losses done by this war.

Let the world see that the United States is here!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Americans!

In two days, we will celebrate Christmas. Maybe, candlelit. Not because it is more romantic. But because there will be no electricity. Millions won't have neither heating nor running water. All of this will be the result of Russian missile and drone attacks on our energy infrastructure. But we do not complain.

We do not judge and compare whose life is easier.

Your well-being is the product of your national security – the result of your struggle for independence and your many victories.

We, Ukrainians, will also go through our war of independence and freedom with dignity and success.

We'll celebrate Christmas – and even if there is no electricity, the light of our faith in ourselves will not be put out. If Russian missiles attack us – we'll do our best to protect ourselves. If they attack us with Iranian drones and our people will have to go to bomb shelters on Christmas eve – Ukrainians will still sit down at a holiday table and cheer up each other. And we don't have to know everyone's wish as we know that all of us, millions of Ukrainians, wish the same – victory. Only victory.

We already built strong Ukraine – with strong people, strong army, and strong institutions. Together with you!

We develop strong security guarantees for our country and for entire Europe and the world. Together with you!

And also – together with you! – we’ll put in place everyone, who will defy freedom.

This will be the basis to protect democracy in Europe and the world over.

Now, on this special Christmas time, I want to thank you. All of you. I thank every American family, which cherishes the warmth of its home and wishes the same warmth to other people.

I thank President Biden and both parties at the Senate and the House – for your invaluable assistance.

I thank your cities and your citizens, who supported Ukraine this year, who hosted our people, who waved our national flags, who acted to help us.

Thank you all! From everyone, who is now at the frontline. From everyone, who is awaiting victory.&nbsp;

Standing here today, I recall the words of the President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, which are so good for this moment: "The American People in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory".

The Ukrainian People will win, too. Absolutely. I know that everything depends on us. On Ukrainian Armed Forces! Yet, so much depends on the world! So much in the world depends on you!

When I was in Bakhmut yesterday, our heroes gave me the flag. The battle flag. The flag of those who defend Ukraine, Europe and the world at the cost of their lives. They asked me to bring this flag to the US Congress – to members of the House of Representatives and Senators, whose decisions can save millions of people.

So, let these decisions be taken!

Let this flag stay with you, ladies and gentlemen!

This flag is a symbol of our victory in this war!

We stand, we fight and we will win. Because we are united. Ukraine, America and the entire free world.

May God protect our brave troops and citizens! May God forever bless the United States of America!

Merry Christmas and a happy victorious new year!

Слава Україні!

(The&nbsp;speech transcript is from the official website of the Ukraine government)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the US Congress on 22nd December with his historic speech which was approximately 25 minutes long. The address came at a time when Ukraine has been going through a tough time with Russia along with looming energy crises in the country.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the US Congress on 22nd December with his historic speech which was approximately 25 minutes long. The address came at a time when Ukraine has been going through a tough time with Russia along with looming energy crises in the country. Zelensky's passionate pleas for the US and larger global support for Ukraine for the ongoing border conflict were often mixed with doses of humour in the speech. The speech was of approximately 25 minutes and ended by unfluring the Ukrainian battle flag. Right before the speech was started, President Zelensky received prolonged and thunderous applause from the US Congress, to which Zelensky replied "It's too much for me". Here is the gist of Zelensky's historic speech in 8 points: 1. He started off by thanking and presenting gratitude to the American people and the US government and both the US parties for their support of Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia and said that he is "very privileged to be here" in the US Congress. 2. After acknowledging the support of the Representatives of the Diaspora, for which he and the Representatives of the Diaspora received a standing ovation, he then said that against all odds, Ukraine is still standing holding his head high. That despite all the doom and gloom, Ukraine and its people are "alive and kicking", which was followed by another bipartisan standing ovation. 3. He talked about their victory over Russia saying that Ukraine fears no one and that everyone in the world should be fearless when it comes to defending its country. He further said that Ukraine's victory will inspire the entire world just like America's victory has united the global community to protect freedom and international law. 4. The Ukrainian president expressed gratitude to the US for sending artillery, but stated that his military requires more cannons and shells to push back Russian forces rather than simply prevent further advances: "Is it enough? "Honestly, not really", Zelensky said. Watch | Zelensky addresses the US Congress, declares 'Ukraine is alive' × 5. Zelensky also requested US assistance in preventing Russia from using Iranian-supplied drones, warning that it is "just a matter of time before they strike against your other allies" and stated that advanced Patriot missile systems, which the US has offered to begin sending to Ukraine this week, will help deflect Russian air attacks on Ukrainian cities. 6. He stated that Ukraine does not expect the US to deploy its own forces to fight Russia, but he assured Ukrainians that they can operate US-made aircraft and tanks (the Biden administration has sent tanks to Ukraine, but is wary of offering aircraft). 7. During his speech, Zelensky repeatedly referred to American history, comparing recent Ukrainian struggles to the Revolutionary War's Battle of Saratoga and World War II's Battle of the Bulge, and quoted wartime President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. 8. Towards the end of his speech, Zelensky handed a Ukrainian flag signed by service members in the eastern Ukrainian frontline town of Bakhmut to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in exchange for a framed American flag flown over the Capitol. Zelensky's visit to Washington, D.C., is his first known foreign trip since Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, though he spoke to Congress virtually in March and met with U.S. lawmakers during a series of congressional visits to Kyiv. Read the full speech by the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky here: Dear Americans! In all states, cities and communities. All those who value freedom and justice. Who cherish it as strongly, as we, Ukrainians, in all our cities, in each and every family. I hope my words of respect and gratitude resonate in each American heart! Madam Vice President, I thank you for your efforts in helping Ukraine! Madam Speaker, you bravely visited Ukraine during the full-fledged war, thank you very much! It is a great honor, a great privilege to be here! Dear members of the Congress – representatives of both parties – who also visited Kyiv! Esteemed Congressmen and Senators – from both parties – who will visit Ukraine, I’m sure, in the future! Dear representatives of diaspora – present in this chamber and spread across the country! Dear journalists! It's a great honor for me to be at the U.S. Congress and speak to you and all Americans! Against all odds and doom and gloom scenarios, Ukraine did not fall. Ukraine is alive and kicking. And it gives me good reason to share with you our first joint victory – we defeated Russia in the battle for minds of the world. We have no fear. Nor should anyone in the world have it. Ukrainians gained this victory – and it gives us courage, which inspires the entire world. Americans gained this victory – and that's why you have succeeded in uniting the global community to protect freedom and international law. Europeans gained this victory – and that's why Europe is now stronger and more independent than ever. The Russian tyranny has lost control over us and it will never influence our minds again. Yet, we have to do whatever it takes to ensure that countries of the Global South also gain such victory. I know one more thing – the Russians will stand a chance to be free only when they defeat the Kremlin in their minds. Yet, the battle continues! And we have to defeat the Kremlin on the battlefield. This battle is not only for the territory – for this or another part of Europe. This battle is not only for life, freedom and security of Ukrainians or any other nation, which Russia attempts to conquer. This struggle will define – in what world our children and grandchildren will live and then – their children and grandchildren. It will define whether it will be a democracy – for Ukrainians and for Americans – for all. This battle cannot be frozen or postponed. It cannot be ignored hoping that the ocean or something else will provide a protection. From the United States to China, from Europe to Latin America, and from Africa to Australia – the world is too interconnected and interdependent to allow someone to stay aside – and at the same time – to feel safe when such a battle continues. Our two nations are Allies in this battle. And next year will be a turning point. The point, when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom. The freedom of people, who stand for their values. Ladies and Gentlemen! Americans! Yesterday – before coming here to Washington DC – I was at the frontline, in our Bakhmut. In our stronghold in the East of Ukraine – in the Donbas. The Russian military and mercenaries have been attacking Bakhmut non-stop since May. They have been attacking it day and night. But Bakhmut stands. Last year seventy thousand people lived there in Bakhmut and now only few civilians stay. Every inch of that land is soaked in blood. Roaring guns sound every hour. Trenches in the Donbas change hands several times a day in fierce combat and even hand fighting. But the Ukrainian Donbas stands. Russians use everything they have against Bakhmut and our other beautiful cities. The occupiers have a significant advantage in artillery. They have an advantage in ammunition. They have much more missiles and planes than we ever had. But our Defense Forces stand. And we all are proud of them. The Russian tactic is primitive. They burn down and destroy everything they see. They sent thugs to the frontlines. They sent convicts to the war... They threw everything against us – similar to the other tyranny, which in the Battle of the Bulge threw everything it had against the free world. Just like the brave American soldiers, which held their lines and fought back Hitler’s forces during the Christmas of 1944, brave Ukrainian soldiers are doing the same to Putin’s forces this Christmas. Ukraine holds its lines and will never surrender! So, here is the frontline – the tyranny, which has no lack of cruelty – against the lives of free people. And your support is crucial – not just to stand in such fights, but to get to the turning point. To win on the battlefield. We have artillery. Yes. Thank you. Is it enough? Honestly, not really. To ensure Bakhmut is not just a stronghold that holds back the Russian army – but for the Russian army to completely pull out – more cannons and shells are needed. If so, just like the battle of Saratoga, the fight for Bakhmut will change the trajectory of our war for independence and freedom. If your «Patriots» stop the Russian terror against our cities, it will let Ukrainian patriots work to the full to defend our freedom. When Russia cannot reach our cities by its artillery, it tries to destroy them with missile attacks. More than that, Russia found an Ally in its genocidal policy – Iran. Iranian deadly drones, sent to Russia in hundreds, became a threat to our critical infrastructure. That is how one terrorist has found the other. It is just a matter of time – when they will strike against your other allies, if we do not stop them now. We must do it! I believe there should be no taboos between us in our alliance. Ukraine never asked the American soldiers to fight on our land instead of us. I assure you that Ukrainian soldiers can perfectly operate American tanks and planes themselves. Financial assistance is also critically important. And I would like to thank you for both, financial packages you have already provided us with, and the ones you may be willing to decide on. Your money is not charity. It's an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way. Russia could stop its aggression if it wanted to, but you can speed up our victory. I know it. And it will prove to any potential aggressor that no one can succeed in breaking national borders, committing atrocities and reigning over people against their will. It would be naive to wait for steps towards peace from Russia – which enjoys being a terrorist state. Russians are still poisoned by the Kremlin. The restoration of international legal order is our joint task. We need peace. Ukraine has already offered proposals, which I just discussed with President Biden – our Peace Formula. Ten points, which should and must be implemented for our joint security – guaranteed for decades ahead. And the Summit, which can be held. I am glad to stress that President Biden supported our peace initiative today. Each of you, ladies and gentlemen, can assist in its implementation – to ensure that America’s leadership remains solid, bicameral and bipartisan. You can strengthen sanctions to make Russia feel how ruinous its aggression truly is. It is in your power to help us bring to justice everyone, who started this unprovoked and criminal war. Let's do it! Let the terrorist state be held responsible for its terror and aggression, and compensate all losses done by this war. Let the world see that the United States is here! Ladies and Gentlemen! Americans! In two days, we will celebrate Christmas. Maybe, candlelit. Not because it is more romantic. But because there will be no electricity. Millions won't have neither heating nor running water. All of this will be the result of Russian missile and drone attacks on our energy infrastructure. But we do not complain. We do not judge and compare whose life is easier. Your well-being is the product of your national security – the result of your struggle for independence and your many victories. We, Ukrainians, will also go through our war of independence and freedom with dignity and success. We'll celebrate Christmas – and even if there is no electricity, the light of our faith in ourselves will not be put out. If Russian missiles attack us – we'll do our best to protect ourselves. If they attack us with Iranian drones and our people will have to go to bomb shelters on Christmas eve – Ukrainians will still sit down at a holiday table and cheer up each other. And we don't have to know everyone's wish as we know that all of us, millions of Ukrainians, wish the same – victory. Only victory. We already built strong Ukraine – with strong people, strong army, and strong institutions. Together with you! We develop strong security guarantees for our country and for entire Europe and the world. Together with you! And also – together with you! – we’ll put in place everyone, who will defy freedom. This will be the basis to protect democracy in Europe and the world over. Now, on this special Christmas time, I want to thank you. All of you. I thank every American family, which cherishes the warmth of its home and wishes the same warmth to other people. I thank President Biden and both parties at the Senate and the House – for your invaluable assistance. I thank your cities and your citizens, who supported Ukraine this year, who hosted our people, who waved our national flags, who acted to help us. Thank you all! From everyone, who is now at the frontline. From everyone, who is awaiting victory. Standing here today, I recall the words of the President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, which are so good for this moment: "The American People in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory". The Ukrainian People will win, too. Absolutely. I know that everything depends on us. On Ukrainian Armed Forces! Yet, so much depends on the world! So much in the world depends on you! When I was in Bakhmut yesterday, our heroes gave me the flag. The battle flag. The flag of those who defend Ukraine, Europe and the world at the cost of their lives. They asked me to bring this flag to the US Congress – to members of the House of Representatives and Senators, whose decisions can save millions of people. So, let these decisions be taken! Let this flag stay with you, ladies and gentlemen! This flag is a symbol of our victory in this war! We stand, we fight and we will win. Because we are united. Ukraine, America and the entire free world. May God protect our brave troops and citizens! May God forever bless the United States of America! Merry Christmas and a happy victorious new year! Слава Україні! (The speech transcript is from the official website of the Ukraine government) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's full speech in US Congress: 8 biggest moments from address

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky paid a defiant wartime visit to Washington on Wednesday to thank US leaders and ordinary Americans for their support in fighting off Russia's invasion.

Zelensky meets Joe Biden in US; thanks Congress America for their support

Marking his first trip abroad since the Russian invasion, Ukrainian President Zelensky paid a visit to the US where he thanked President Joe Biden for American support in the ongoing war. He also vowed that Ukraine will never surrender.

Ukraine will never surrender, vows Zelensky while addressing US Congress

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the US Congress. During his speech, he thanked President Joe Biden for his support in the ongoing war.

Zelensky addresses the US Congress, declares 'Ukraine is alive'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that he will visit Washington on Wednesday, where he will held talks with US President Joe Biden. He is also scheduled to address a joint session of the US Senate and House of Representatives at Capitol Hill.

Zelensky to meet US President Joe Biden, address Congress as war rages on

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is planning to visit Washington on Wednesday for a possible meeting with President Joe Biden and may address the US Congress.

Ukraine's Zelensky planning to visit Washington; may address US Congress

US President Joe Biden and Ukraine's Zelensky to meet at White House

A landmark bill that will give federal protection&nbsp;to same-sex marriage was passed by the US Congress on Thursday (December 8).&nbsp;The bill was passed after a vote of 258-169, with all of the chamber's Democrats and 39 Republicans voting in favour. On the other hand, 169 of the chamber's Republicans voted against it and one voted "present".&nbsp;

President Joe Biden, who vouched for the bill, has promised that he will quickly sign the measure into law. It will be called the Respect for Marriage Act.&nbsp;

The bill had won the senate's approval last month with a vote of 61-36. Shortly before the vote, outgoing House Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi said: "Today this chamber proudly stands with the forces of freedom."&nbsp;

Today's vote was needed to reconcile minor differences with the Senate's version.&nbsp;

Pelosi tweeted on Thursday, "I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love."&nbsp;

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I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities — and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love. 
 
Read my op-ed on the Respect for Marriage Act: <a href="https://t.co/UyIE8vJlIG">https://t.co/UyIE8vJlIG</a>
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1600838293473878017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Join <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenSchumer</a>, Members of <a href="https://twitter.com/LGBTEqCaucus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LGBTEqCaucus</a>, advocates and me at the U.S. Capitol to sign the Respect for Marriage Act, a major victory for freedom, dignity and equality by enshrining into federal law marriage equality for same sex and interracial couples. <a href="https://t.co/dDlvZiczxd">https://t.co/dDlvZiczxd</a>
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1600891430905335817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During the debate, David Cicilline, a Democrat from Rhode Island said, "I urge all those here today who previously voted against this bill to reconsider, be part of history, and join us in voting for its passage today. Today’s vote is a monumental win in the fight LBTQ+ equality but the work does not stop here. We remain the only minority group in America where in a majority of states it still legal to discriminate against us in several key areas of life."&nbsp;

Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio said, "For years, the Democrats have been playing a dangerous game with the Court. They want Americans to believe that the Court lacks transparency and struggles with its ethics, simply not true. This bill is simply the latest installment of the Democrats campaign to intimidate the highest Court in our land."&nbsp;

After the passage of the bill,&nbsp;a 1996 US&nbsp;law called the Defense of Marriage Act will be revoked. It had denied federal benefits to same-sex couples. It bars states from rejecting the validity of out-of-state marriages on the basis of sex, race or ethnicity.

The Supreme Court in 1967 declared prohibitions on interracial marriage unconstitutional.&nbsp;

Now, the new legislation does not require states to legalize same-sex marriage but does require them to recognize a marriage so long as it was valid in the state where it was performed.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A landmark bill that will give federal protection to same-sex marriage was passed by the US Congress on Thursday (December 8). The bill was passed after a vote of 258-169, with all of the chamber's Democrats and 39 Republicans voting in favour.

A landmark bill that will give federal protection to same-sex marriage was passed by the US Congress on Thursday (December 8). The bill was passed after a vote of 258-169, with all of the chamber's Democrats and 39 Republicans voting in favour. On the other hand, 169 of the chamber's Republicans voted against it and one voted "present". President Joe Biden, who vouched for the bill, has promised that he will quickly sign the measure into law. It will be called the Respect for Marriage Act. The bill had won the senate's approval last month with a vote of 61-36. Shortly before the vote, outgoing House Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi said: "Today this chamber proudly stands with the forces of freedom." Today's vote was needed to reconcile minor differences with the Senate's version. Pelosi tweeted on Thursday, "I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love." I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities — and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love. Read my op-ed on the Respect for Marriage Act: https://t.co/UyIE8vJlIG — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) December 8, 2022 × Join @SenSchumer, Members of @LGBTEqCaucus, advocates and me at the U.S. Capitol to sign the Respect for Marriage Act, a major victory for freedom, dignity and equality by enshrining into federal law marriage equality for same sex and interracial couples. https://t.co/dDlvZiczxd — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) December 8, 2022 × During the debate, David Cicilline, a Democrat from Rhode Island said, "I urge all those here today who previously voted against this bill to reconsider, be part of history, and join us in voting for its passage today. Today’s vote is a monumental win in the fight LBTQ+ equality but the work does not stop here. We remain the only minority group in America where in a majority of states it still legal to discriminate against us in several key areas of life." Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio said, "For years, the Democrats have been playing a dangerous game with the Court. They want Americans to believe that the Court lacks transparency and struggles with its ethics, simply not true. This bill is simply the latest installment of the Democrats campaign to intimidate the highest Court in our land." After the passage of the bill, a 1996 US law called the Defense of Marriage Act will be revoked. It had denied federal benefits to same-sex couples. It bars states from rejecting the validity of out-of-state marriages on the basis of sex, race or ethnicity. The Supreme Court in 1967 declared prohibitions on interracial marriage unconstitutional. Now, the new legislation does not require states to legalize same-sex marriage but does require them to recognize a marriage so long as it was valid in the state where it was performed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Landmark bill to protect same-sex marriage passed by Congress

In a huge development that can be seen as his political endorsement, Twitter boss Elon Musk has explicitly appealed American voters to vote for 'Republican Congress' in midterm elections due on November 8.&nbsp;

The tweet by the billionaire is addressed to 'independent-minded voters' but such an appeal&nbsp;by the world's richest man, just short of explicit endorsement is likely to be seen as a clear backing to the Republican Party.

"To independent-minded voters: Shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties, therefore I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic," said Musk in his tweet

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To independent-minded voters: 
 
Shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties, therefore I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1589639376186724354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Musk shortly followed up the tweet above with another one attempting to explain his logic and stressing that he was speaking to 'independent voters'.

"Hardcore Democrats or Republicans never vote for the other side, so independent voters are the ones who actually decide who’s in charge!" he said in the follow up tweet.

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Hardcore Democrats or Republicans never vote for the other side, so independent voters are the ones who actually decide who’s in charge!
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1589644018727936001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The upcoming midterm elections are being considered to be a tough trek for US President Joe Biden's Democratic Party. It is being considered that the mood of the electorate is pro-Republican Party. Former US president Donald Trump, a Republican, has given hint of running for president again in 2024. All these developments point at a favourable momentum for Republican Party.

An 'almost endorsement' from a person like Musk is likely to stir the pot even more.

Elon Musk has recently acquired Twitter, the social media platform which significantly influences popular and political discussions in the digital world. Musk, himself an avid tweeter, is considered by many to be a right winger. It was predicted that under him, Twitter would assume a slant towards the Right.

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In a huge development that can be seen as his political endorsement, Twitter boss Elon Musk has explicitly appealed American voters to vote for 'Republican Congress' in midterm elections due on November 8.

In a huge development that can be seen as his political endorsement, Twitter boss Elon Musk has explicitly appealed American voters to vote for 'Republican Congress' in midterm elections due on November 8. The tweet by the billionaire is addressed to 'independent-minded voters' but such an appeal by the world's richest man, just short of explicit endorsement is likely to be seen as a clear backing to the Republican Party. "To independent-minded voters: Shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties, therefore I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic," said Musk in his tweet To independent-minded voters: Shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties, therefore I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 7, 2022 × Musk shortly followed up the tweet above with another one attempting to explain his logic and stressing that he was speaking to 'independent voters'. "Hardcore Democrats or Republicans never vote for the other side, so independent voters are the ones who actually decide who’s in charge!" he said in the follow up tweet. Hardcore Democrats or Republicans never vote for the other side, so independent voters are the ones who actually decide who’s in charge! — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 7, 2022 × The upcoming midterm elections are being considered to be a tough trek for US President Joe Biden's Democratic Party. It is being considered that the mood of the electorate is pro-Republican Party. Former US president Donald Trump, a Republican, has given hint of running for president again in 2024. All these developments point at a favourable momentum for Republican Party. An 'almost endorsement' from a person like Musk is likely to stir the pot even more. Elon Musk has recently acquired Twitter, the social media platform which significantly influences popular and political discussions in the digital world. Musk, himself an avid tweeter, is considered by many to be a right winger. It was predicted that under him, Twitter would assume a slant towards the Right. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US Midterms: Twitter boss Elon Musk asks Americans to vote for 'Republican Congress'

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict becomes tenser in the backdrop of Putin's fiery speech and Zelensky signing the NATO application form, the US has approved a $12.3 billion aid package for Kyiv.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict becomes tenser in the backdrop of Putin's fiery speech and Zelensky signing the NATO application form, the US has approved a $12.3 billion aid package for Kyiv. Reportedly, the US Congress on Friday approved the sum as part of the stopgap spending bill to ensure that critical infrastructure in Ukraine remains running. It was passed by 230 votes to 201 with 10 Republicans favouring the spending. Of the $12.3 billion, $3 billion will be for arms, supplies, and salaries for Ukraine's military. Meanwhile, $4.5 billion will keep Kyiv's finances stable and the government functioning. The bill summary added that the legislation would appropriate $35 million "to prepare for and respond to potential nuclear and radiological incidents in Ukraine." "This new grant assistance is a further demonstration of US confidence in Ukraine and will support critical government operations and provide relief to Ukrainian people suffering under Russia's brutal war," said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. "Critically, this funding will also help bolster Ukraine's valiant resistance to Putin's illegal war of aggression. We call on fellow donors to not only speed up their existing disbursements to Ukraine, but also to increase their scale of assistance," she added. Almost $54 billion in aid money to Ukraine has been approved un until now by Washington this year. As reported by WION, in August, the US sent $4.5 billion tranche of payment, thereby completing the $7.5 billion aid package signed by President Joe Biden in May. Read more: USA to provide additional $4.5 billion to Ukraine However, with the war guzzling out the funds quickly and the US reaching its saturation point, experts have cast worries over Ukraine's inability to raise funds or access financing from external markets. If the current trend continues, Ukraine's annual deficit could rise to 25 per cent of GDP, which only stood at 3.5 per cent prior to the war. Meanwhile, the naysayers back in the US have critiqued the Biden government saying that his own people are undergoing an economic crisis, only exacerbated by hurricane Ian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Congress approves $12.3 billion aid package for Ukraine

On Wednesday, TikTok unveiled its strategy to combat the onslaught of false information that is anticipated to accompany the approaching US midterm elections. Tech companies typically determine how to address such issues on their own.

The firm announced that as part of its preparedness for the November midterm elections in the United States, it will work to prevent influencers from posting paid political messages on the short-form video app.

Head of US safety Eric Han wrote in a blog post that TikTok has started reminding users that its ban on political adverts includes videos that people are paid to make for the platform.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: US president Joe Biden signs climate bill into law

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While TikTok has prohibited paid political advertisements since 2019, campaign strategists have found a loophole, they now pay influencers to promote political causes.

Han stated, "If we discover political content was paid for and not properly disclosed, it is promptly removed from the platform."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-critic-liz-cheney-ousted-in-the-wyoming-election-507776" hreflang="en">Donald Trump’s critic Liz Cheney ousted in the Wyoming election</a>

Critics and lawmakers have long accused TikTok and rival social media firms like Meta Platforms and Twitter of not doing enough to halt the spread of political misinformation and provocative content on their platforms, reports Reuters.

According to an AFP report, TikTok has launched an "Elections Center" that would inform users of where and how to cast their ballots as well as include videos aimed at inspiring critical thinking about online material.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-knew-russias-plans-ukraine-war-but-it-struggled-to-convince-allies-report-507813" hreflang="en">US knew Russia's Ukraine war plans but struggled to convince allies: Report</a>

The popular video-sharing app will add links to its Elections Center to content identified as being connected to the midterm elections, as well as accounts belonging to governments, lawmakers, or political parties.

Han said&nbsp;TikTok will evaluate the veracity of content using both automated technologies and human fact-checkers, he also&nbsp;urged&nbsp;users to "reconsider" sharing posts with dubious claims.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Wednesday, TikTok unveiled its strategy to combat the onslaught of false information that is anticipated to accompany the approaching US midterm elections. Tech companies typically determine how to address such issues on their own.

On Wednesday, TikTok unveiled its strategy to combat the onslaught of false information that is anticipated to accompany the approaching US midterm elections. Tech companies typically determine how to address such issues on their own. The firm announced that as part of its preparedness for the November midterm elections in the United States, it will work to prevent influencers from posting paid political messages on the short-form video app. Head of US safety Eric Han wrote in a blog post that TikTok has started reminding users that its ban on political adverts includes videos that people are paid to make for the platform. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: US president Joe Biden signs climate bill into law While TikTok has prohibited paid political advertisements since 2019, campaign strategists have found a loophole, they now pay influencers to promote political causes. Han stated, "If we discover political content was paid for and not properly disclosed, it is promptly removed from the platform." Also read | Donald Trump’s critic Liz Cheney ousted in the Wyoming election Critics and lawmakers have long accused TikTok and rival social media firms like Meta Platforms and Twitter of not doing enough to halt the spread of political misinformation and provocative content on their platforms, reports Reuters. According to an AFP report, TikTok has launched an "Elections Center" that would inform users of where and how to cast their ballots as well as include videos aimed at inspiring critical thinking about online material. Also read | US knew Russia's Ukraine war plans but struggled to convince allies: Report The popular video-sharing app will add links to its Elections Center to content identified as being connected to the midterm elections, as well as accounts belonging to governments, lawmakers, or political parties. Han said TikTok will evaluate the veracity of content using both automated technologies and human fact-checkers, he also urged users to "reconsider" sharing posts with dubious claims. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ahead of US mid-term elections, TikTok reveals plan to crack down on paid political posts

A second US delegation has arrived in Taiwan on an unannounced two-day visit. They are all set to meet Taiwan's president Tsai Ing-wen on Monday.

This is the second time that the delegation from the US Congress arrived in Taipei in a month, after Speaker House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the region, which created a huge uproar in China.

According to the Taiwanese media, the new five-member delegation arrived for the talks, but details of the meeting were not immediately released. The delegation was due to depart later Monday on a US government plane.

Massachusetts Democratic Senator Ed Markey, who is part of the delegation, in a statement, said that the US team is visiting “the self-governing island in an effort to reaffirm the United States' support for Taiwan" and "will encourage stability and peace across the Taiwan Strait," reports CNN.

The delegation includes Democratic Reps. John Garamendi, Alan Lowenthal and Don Beyer, and Republican Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the delegation will meet with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu and will also hold discussions with the Taiwanese parliament's Foreign Affairs and National Defence committee on security and trade issues, reports CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-whitepaper-on-taiwan-reunification-and-respond-with-the-use-of-force-505428">China's 'whitepaper' on Taiwan: 'Reunification' and 'respond with the use of force'</a>

It added hailed the visit as another sign of a friendship between Taipei and Washington "that is not afraid of China's threats and intimidation".

Following the legislators’ arrival, state news agency Xinhua published a commentary with the headline ‘US&nbsp;politicians should stop playing with fire on Taiwan&nbsp;question’.

Also read |&nbsp;'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-cares-nancy-pelosi-laughs-at-chinas-decision-to-sanction-her-and-her-family-505746">Who cares?', Nancy Pelosi laughs at China's decision to sanction her and her family</a>

"Those US politicians who are playing with fire on the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;question should drop their wishful thinking," the agency said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A second US delegation has arrived in Taiwan on an unannounced two-day visit. They are all set to meet Taiwan's president Tsai Ing-wen on Monday. This is the second time that the delegation from the US Congress arrived in Taipei in a month, after Speaker House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the region, which created a huge uproar in China.

A second US delegation has arrived in Taiwan on an unannounced two-day visit. They are all set to meet Taiwan's president Tsai Ing-wen on Monday. This is the second time that the delegation from the US Congress arrived in Taipei in a month, after Speaker House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the region, which created a huge uproar in China. According to the Taiwanese media, the new five-member delegation arrived for the talks, but details of the meeting were not immediately released. The delegation was due to depart later Monday on a US government plane. Massachusetts Democratic Senator Ed Markey, who is part of the delegation, in a statement, said that the US team is visiting “the self-governing island in an effort to reaffirm the United States' support for Taiwan" and "will encourage stability and peace across the Taiwan Strait," reports CNN. The delegation includes Democratic Reps. John Garamendi, Alan Lowenthal and Don Beyer, and Republican Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the delegation will meet with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu and will also hold discussions with the Taiwanese parliament's Foreign Affairs and National Defence committee on security and trade issues, reports CNN. Also read | China's 'whitepaper' on Taiwan: 'Reunification' and 'respond with the use of force' It added hailed the visit as another sign of a friendship between Taipei and Washington "that is not afraid of China's threats and intimidation". Following the legislators’ arrival, state news agency Xinhua published a commentary with the headline ‘US politicians should stop playing with fire on Taiwan question’. Also read | 'Who cares?', Nancy Pelosi laughs at China's decision to sanction her and her family "Those US politicians who are playing with fire on the Taiwan question should drop their wishful thinking," the agency said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Congress delegation visits Taiwan, second high-profile visit in a month

US Congress passes long-awaited bill to boost chipmakers, compete with China

After years of false starts and attempts to tighten gun rules, US lawmakers finally imposed the most significant federal gun restrictions in decades on Friday, scrambling to respond to a recent string of brutal gun killings. After the bipartisan bill was approved by the Senate late on Thursday, the House followed suit. It restricts access to firearms for children, people who have committed domestic violence, and other people who would be a danger to their communities. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act would also provide funding for mental health and school safety initiatives.

With 14 Republicans joining all Democrats, the House passed it by a vote of 234 to 193. President Joe Biden will likely soon sign the bill into law after receiving it.

Watch | Decoding Gun Violence in America: A WION special on rise of mass shootings in the U.S.

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After lone shooters killed Black shoppers at a Buffalo grocery store and children at a Texas elementary school last month, Democrats thought the law would further curtail gun violence. This week's success for proponents of gun control also included a loss when the Supreme Court invalidated a New York statute that limited people's right to carry concealed weapons. The decision puts similar legislation across the nation in jeopardy.

Despite this, Democrats celebrated the law's passage as a historic occasion after winning backing from Republicans, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican who has long opposed efforts to restrict gun ownership in the wake of devastating mass shootings.

For gun purchasers aged 18 to 21, the bill approved on Friday would strengthen background checks. After the shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, Texas, were both carried out by 18-year-olds using assault-style weapons, the ease with which young people can obtain firearms came under greater scrutiny. The Democrats wanted to outlaw firearms for anybody under the age of 21.

The measure attempts to prohibit gun ownership for domestic violence offenders who are not married to their partners and close the so-called boyfriend loophole. Additionally, it would establish funding for states to support red-flag legislation, which permits law enforcement or friends and family to ask a court to order the confiscation of a gun if the owner is deemed dangerous.

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After years of false starts and attempts to tighten gun rules, US lawmakers finally imposed the most significant federal gun restrictions in decades on Friday, scrambling to respond to a recent string of brutal gun killings.

After years of false starts and attempts to tighten gun rules, US lawmakers finally imposed the most significant federal gun restrictions in decades on Friday, scrambling to respond to a recent string of brutal gun killings. After the bipartisan bill was approved by the Senate late on Thursday, the House followed suit. It restricts access to firearms for children, people who have committed domestic violence, and other people who would be a danger to their communities. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act would also provide funding for mental health and school safety initiatives. With 14 Republicans joining all Democrats, the House passed it by a vote of 234 to 193. President Joe Biden will likely soon sign the bill into law after receiving it. Watch | Decoding Gun Violence in America: A WION special on rise of mass shootings in the U.S. After lone shooters killed Black shoppers at a Buffalo grocery store and children at a Texas elementary school last month, Democrats thought the law would further curtail gun violence. This week's success for proponents of gun control also included a loss when the Supreme Court invalidated a New York statute that limited people's right to carry concealed weapons. The decision puts similar legislation across the nation in jeopardy. Despite this, Democrats celebrated the law's passage as a historic occasion after winning backing from Republicans, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican who has long opposed efforts to restrict gun ownership in the wake of devastating mass shootings. For gun purchasers aged 18 to 21, the bill approved on Friday would strengthen background checks. After the shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, Texas, were both carried out by 18-year-olds using assault-style weapons, the ease with which young people can obtain firearms came under greater scrutiny. The Democrats wanted to outlaw firearms for anybody under the age of 21. The measure attempts to prohibit gun ownership for domestic violence offenders who are not married to their partners and close the so-called boyfriend loophole. Additionally, it would establish funding for states to support red-flag legislation, which permits law enforcement or friends and family to ask a court to order the confiscation of a gun if the owner is deemed dangerous. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Congress passes gun-control bill following rare bipartisan compromise

United States President Joe Biden is expected to call on Congress to suspend the federal gas taxes for the next three months in order to combat the rapid rise in fuel prices. Biden will also ask the state governments to suspend their own taxes in order to provide some relief to the public, according to the White House. According to ABC News, a senior administration official said that there is "some evidence that state tax suspensions, in particular, do get passed through to consumers" and added that Biden will be speaking directly on gas companies for price regulation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-920-people-killed-and-600-wounded-after-magnitude-61-earthquake-hits-eastern-afghanistan-490492" hreflang="en">Afghanistan earthquake: At least 1000 killed, rescue efforts underway</a>

"Companies, of course, are beholden to their shareholders, but they really need to be beholden and conscious of customers, and their fellow neighbors, and their fellow citizens, just like this administration's doing," another senior administration official told reporters according to the ABC News report. "And we hope that that's the spirit that CEOs of these companies will take."

Currently, the United States government charges an 18.4-cent tax per gallon of gasoline and a 24.4-cent tax per gallon of diesel. However, under the new directives, they will forego all tax earnings for three months and the White House said that the cost of the action will be around $10 billion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-4-to-5-rape-cases-daily-pakistans-punjab-declares-rape-emergency-490546">With 4 to 5 rape cases daily, Pakistan's Punjab declares 'rape emergency'</a>

However, according to the ABC News report, the White House official made it clear that these are steps that can provide some relief but a “tax holiday” cannot be the ultimate solution.

A federal gas tax holiday "isn't going to solve the whole problem. It is something that can be done to take a real step to relieve some of that pain at the pump. And we see it as part of a suite of policies that are designed to provide that relief, including policies that focus on the supply side."

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United States President Joe Biden is expected to call on Congress to suspend the federal gas taxes for the next three months in order to combat the rapid rise in fuel prices.

United States President Joe Biden is expected to call on Congress to suspend the federal gas taxes for the next three months in order to combat the rapid rise in fuel prices. Biden will also ask the state governments to suspend their own taxes in order to provide some relief to the public, according to the White House. According to ABC News, a senior administration official said that there is "some evidence that state tax suspensions, in particular, do get passed through to consumers" and added that Biden will be speaking directly on gas companies for price regulation. Also read | Afghanistan earthquake: At least 1000 killed, rescue efforts underway "Companies, of course, are beholden to their shareholders, but they really need to be beholden and conscious of customers, and their fellow neighbors, and their fellow citizens, just like this administration's doing," another senior administration official told reporters according to the ABC News report. "And we hope that that's the spirit that CEOs of these companies will take." Currently, the United States government charges an 18.4-cent tax per gallon of gasoline and a 24.4-cent tax per gallon of diesel. However, under the new directives, they will forego all tax earnings for three months and the White House said that the cost of the action will be around $10 billion. Also read | With 4 to 5 rape cases daily, Pakistan's Punjab declares 'rape emergency' However, according to the ABC News report, the White House official made it clear that these are steps that can provide some relief but a “tax holiday” cannot be the ultimate solution. A federal gas tax holiday "isn't going to solve the whole problem. It is something that can be done to take a real step to relieve some of that pain at the pump. And we see it as part of a suite of policies that are designed to provide that relief, including policies that focus on the supply side." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joe Biden to ask US Congress to stop gas tax for three months as fuel prices rise

A former top adviser to ex-US president has been charged with contempt of Congress. Peter Navarro, faces a charge of refusing to cooperate with the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Announcement about the contempt charges was made by the Justice Department on Friday.

A federal grand jury charged Navarro with one count involving his refusal to appear for a deposition before the Jan. 6 Select Committee and another for his refusal to produce documents in response to a subpoena, justice&nbsp;department said.

During his 72-minute hearing before magistrate, Navarro did not enter a plea. The hearing was in the US District Court for the District of Columbia. Navarro accused the US Justice Department of "prosecutorial misconduct" for arresting him at a local airport

Navarro said authorities ignored his request for them to contact an attorney and refused to allow him to make a phone call during his arrest. "I am … disappointed in our republic," he told the judge. His next court appearance was set for June 17.

On January 6, 2021, a large mob of former US president Donald Trump attack US Capitol Building in Washington DC. Trump had held a rally before the attack and had asked his supporters to "march" to the Capitol Buidling. The attack and deadly riots took place just when US lawmakers were formalising US President Joe Biden's victory in US Presidential Election 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A former top adviser to ex-US president has been charged with contempt of Congress. Peter Navarro, faces a charge of refusing to cooperate with the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan.

A former top adviser to ex-US president has been charged with contempt of Congress. Peter Navarro, faces a charge of refusing to cooperate with the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Announcement about the contempt charges was made by the Justice Department on Friday. A federal grand jury charged Navarro with one count involving his refusal to appear for a deposition before the Jan. 6 Select Committee and another for his refusal to produce documents in response to a subpoena, justice department said. During his 72-minute hearing before magistrate, Navarro did not enter a plea. The hearing was in the US District Court for the District of Columbia. Navarro accused the US Justice Department of "prosecutorial misconduct" for arresting him at a local airport Navarro said authorities ignored his request for them to contact an attorney and refused to allow him to make a phone call during his arrest. "I am … disappointed in our republic," he told the judge. His next court appearance was set for June 17. On January 6, 2021, a large mob of former US president Donald Trump attack US Capitol Building in Washington DC. Trump had held a rally before the attack and had asked his supporters to "march" to the Capitol Buidling. The attack and deadly riots took place just when US lawmakers were formalising US President Joe Biden's victory in US Presidential Election 2020. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

January 6 riots: Peter Navarro, former Trump adviser charged with contempt of Congress

NASA has reportedly confirmed that it will get involved in searching UFOs days after the historic Congress hearing raised concerns over the potential “threats” by these flying saucers.

According to DailyMail.com, which has cited sources, NASA will be helping the US UFO investigation.

A NASA spokesperson said it is “evaluating how to provide our expertise in space-based Earth observations to improve understanding of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs)” and “has consulted with multiple government entities”.

However, it has denied it was setting up its own dedicated UAP office.

NASA’s decision comes weeks after the historic Congress hearing on UAPs in 54 years where the spotting of the flying saucers was officially acknowledged.

During the hearing, they also came up with a new law mandating a government UAP task force, which will be aided by NASA.

According to DailyMail.com, a source affiliated with the US government and knows of NASA’s UAP research said that the US space agency could gather evidence from astronauts.

“I suspect it will be a combination of efforts that will include perhaps firsthand eyewitness testimony of NASA employees and astronauts, and then perhaps a review of old archival footage to assess if there are some findings within the NASA archives that can help AOIMSG.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ufos-and-aliens-startling-revelations-made-at-us-congress-hearing-heres-what-you-should-know-480224">UFOs and aliens: US military shares videos at US Congress hearing. Here’s what you should know</a>

AOIMSG stands for the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group, which is the official name of the UFO task force.

The source added that NASA's work will complement the Department of Defense's UAP task force, charged by Congress with investigating the threats posed by strange objects in US airspace and beyond.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/1995-ufo-spotting-in-us-was-actually-that-of-celestial-bodies-claim-astronomers-478983">1995 UFO sighting in US was actually of celestial bodies, claim astronomers</a>

Earlier this month during the hearing, a Navy intelligence official&nbsp;revealed that there’s now been over 400 sightings of UAPs.

UFO videos were played&nbsp;to Congressmen as part of the hearing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA has reportedly confirmed that it will get involved in searching UFOs days after the historic Congress hearing raised concerns over the potential “threats” by these flying saucers.

NASA has reportedly confirmed that it will get involved in searching UFOs days after the historic Congress hearing raised concerns over the potential “threats” by these flying saucers. According to DailyMail.com, which has cited sources, NASA will be helping the US UFO investigation. A NASA spokesperson said it is “evaluating how to provide our expertise in space-based Earth observations to improve understanding of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs)” and “has consulted with multiple government entities”. However, it has denied it was setting up its own dedicated UAP office. NASA’s decision comes weeks after the historic Congress hearing on UAPs in 54 years where the spotting of the flying saucers was officially acknowledged. During the hearing, they also came up with a new law mandating a government UAP task force, which will be aided by NASA. According to DailyMail.com, a source affiliated with the US government and knows of NASA’s UAP research said that the US space agency could gather evidence from astronauts. “I suspect it will be a combination of efforts that will include perhaps firsthand eyewitness testimony of NASA employees and astronauts, and then perhaps a review of old archival footage to assess if there are some findings within the NASA archives that can help AOIMSG.” Also read | UFOs and aliens: US military shares videos at US Congress hearing. Here’s what you should know AOIMSG stands for the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group, which is the official name of the UFO task force. The source added that NASA's work will complement the Department of Defense's UAP task force, charged by Congress with investigating the threats posed by strange objects in US airspace and beyond. Also read | 1995 UFO sighting in US was actually of celestial bodies, claim astronomers Earlier this month during the hearing, a Navy intelligence official revealed that there’s now been over 400 sightings of UAPs. UFO videos were played to Congressmen as part of the hearing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA confirms it will join US govt’s team to search for UFOs: Report

The US Congress on Wednesday held its much-anticipated public hearing on aliens and the UFOs for the first time in 50 years on Wednesday, where a few interesting facts came to the fore while several myths were busted.

The House Intelligence Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Counterintelligence and Counterproliferation held the question-and-answer session. It was hosted by two Pentagon officials to discuss the possibilities of Unexplained Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) or as the military terms UFOs.

“UAPs are unexplained; it’s true,” Indiana representative Andre Carson, the subcommittee’s chair, observed in his opening remarks.

“But they are real. They need to be investigated, and many threats they pose need to be mitigated.”

During the hearing, top Pentagon intelligence official Ronald Moultrie said that through "rigorous" analysis, most, but not all, UAPs were identified.

Here are some of the interesting observations made during the hearing.

1) During the hearing, US Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence Scott Bray admitted that reports of UAPs are “frequent” and have been on the rise for more than a decade.

2) He shared a declassified video of a reflective, unidentified sphere-shaped object that “zooms” passed a pilot flying in a Navy training range, visible only for a few short frames.

3) In a separate clip and a similar photo taken at different times, glowing triangles are seen in the night sky.

4) The officials said that a number of events have defied all attempts at explanation. They added that the sightings recorded by the military include 11 "near-misses" with US aircraft.

5) They found that some UAPs were seen to be moving without any propulsion.

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The clip on UFO sightings is viewable at 43:00 in the video.

6) Bray said the number of reported incidents had grown to approximately 400 since last year. He said the sightings are "frequent and continuing" and often occur in military training areas or other designated airspace.&nbsp;

7) He said that they were unable to determine any signs of extra-terrestrial due to limited or no evidence of wreckage.

8) He also claimed that these sightings were not limited to the US alone. Several countries have had their own reports of UAPs, and some of those countries communicate with Washington about their findings and vice versa.

9) The US military and intelligence are primarily interested in determining whether these aerial objects may be linked to threats against the United States.

10) “Unidentified Aerial Phenomena are a potential national security threat. And they need to be treated that way," said Democratic Representative Andre Carson of Indiana, who was chairing the panel holding the hearing.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Congress on Wednesday held its much-anticipated public hearing on aliens and the UFOs for the first time in 50 years on Wednesday, where a few interesting facts came to the fore while several myths were busted.

The US Congress on Wednesday held its much-anticipated public hearing on aliens and the UFOs for the first time in 50 years on Wednesday, where a few interesting facts came to the fore while several myths were busted. The House Intelligence Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Counterintelligence and Counterproliferation held the question-and-answer session. It was hosted by two Pentagon officials to discuss the possibilities of Unexplained Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) or as the military terms UFOs. “UAPs are unexplained; it’s true,” Indiana representative Andre Carson, the subcommittee’s chair, observed in his opening remarks. “But they are real. They need to be investigated, and many threats they pose need to be mitigated.” During the hearing, top Pentagon intelligence official Ronald Moultrie said that through "rigorous" analysis, most, but not all, UAPs were identified. Here are some of the interesting observations made during the hearing. 1) During the hearing, US Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence Scott Bray admitted that reports of UAPs are “frequent” and have been on the rise for more than a decade. 2) He shared a declassified video of a reflective, unidentified sphere-shaped object that “zooms” passed a pilot flying in a Navy training range, visible only for a few short frames. 3) In a separate clip and a similar photo taken at different times, glowing triangles are seen in the night sky. 4) The officials said that a number of events have defied all attempts at explanation. They added that the sightings recorded by the military include 11 "near-misses" with US aircraft. 5) They found that some UAPs were seen to be moving without any propulsion. × The clip on UFO sightings is viewable at 43:00 in the video. 6) Bray said the number of reported incidents had grown to approximately 400 since last year. He said the sightings are "frequent and continuing" and often occur in military training areas or other designated airspace. 7) He said that they were unable to determine any signs of extra-terrestrial due to limited or no evidence of wreckage. 8) He also claimed that these sightings were not limited to the US alone. Several countries have had their own reports of UAPs, and some of those countries communicate with Washington about their findings and vice versa. 9) The US military and intelligence are primarily interested in determining whether these aerial objects may be linked to threats against the United States. 10) “Unidentified Aerial Phenomena are a potential national security threat. And they need to be treated that way," said Democratic Representative Andre Carson of Indiana, who was chairing the panel holding the hearing. (With inputs from agencies)

UFOs and aliens: US military shares videos at US Congress hearing. Here’s what you should know

In the first such hearing in more than 50 years, top Pentagon officials showed unexplained UFO videos to members of US Congress. The term UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) is associated with aerial vehicle of extraterrestrial origin. US government is calling these "unidentified aerial phenomena" during the hearing.

Ronald Moultrie and Scott Bray, two top officials of the Pentagon appeared on May 17 before US House of Representatives intelligence subcommittee. They are appearing before the subcommittee 11 months after submission of a report documenting more than 140 cases of unidentified aerial phenomena, or UAPs, that U.S. military pilots have reported observing since 2004.

Bray, deputy director of naval intelligence, said that US officials are unable to explain some of these sightings. Bray said that some sightings generated too lityle data to arrive at a logical explanation.

But Bray added: "There are a small handful of cases in which we have more data that our analysis simply hasn't been able to fully pull together a picture of what happened." These, Bray said, have involved unexpected "flight characteristics" or "signature management."

"When it comes to material that we have, we have no material, we have detected no emanations, within the UAB task force that would suggest it is anything non-terrestrial in origin," Bray added.

"We know that our service members have encountered unidentified aerial phenomena, and because UAP pose potential flight safety and general security risks, we are committed to a focused effort to determine their origins," Moultrie, who oversees a newly formed Pentagon-based UAP investigation team as U.S. defense undersecretary for intelligence and security, told the hearing.

Scott Bray showed two UAP clips to the panel. In one clip, a flashing triangle-shaped object in the night sky was seen. &nbsp;The other showed a shiny, spherical object zipping past the cockpit window of a military aircraft.

"I do not have an explanation for what this specific object is," Bray said of the second object.

Both the officials told the subcommittee that Pentagon wanted to remove stigma associated with sightings of UFOs and wanted to encourage pilots to report when they see such phenomena.

The notion of alien spacecraft received no mention in last June's UAP presentation. The focus, instead, was on possible implications for US&nbsp;national security and aviation safety, as it was in Tuesday's hearing.

The report did, however, include some UAPs previously revealed in Pentagon-released video footage of enigmatic airborne objects exhibiting speed and maneuverability exceeding known aviation technology and lacking any visible means of propulsion or flight-control surfaces.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the first such hearing in more than 50 years, top Pentagon officials showed unexplained UFO videos to members of US Congress. The term UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) is associated with aerial vehicle of extraterrestrial origin.

In the first such hearing in more than 50 years, top Pentagon officials showed unexplained UFO videos to members of US Congress. The term UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) is associated with aerial vehicle of extraterrestrial origin. US government is calling these "unidentified aerial phenomena" during the hearing. Ronald Moultrie and Scott Bray, two top officials of the Pentagon appeared on May 17 before US House of Representatives intelligence subcommittee. They are appearing before the subcommittee 11 months after submission of a report documenting more than 140 cases of unidentified aerial phenomena, or UAPs, that U.S. military pilots have reported observing since 2004. Bray, deputy director of naval intelligence, said that US officials are unable to explain some of these sightings. Bray said that some sightings generated too lityle data to arrive at a logical explanation. But Bray added: "There are a small handful of cases in which we have more data that our analysis simply hasn't been able to fully pull together a picture of what happened." These, Bray said, have involved unexpected "flight characteristics" or "signature management." "When it comes to material that we have, we have no material, we have detected no emanations, within the UAB task force that would suggest it is anything non-terrestrial in origin," Bray added. "We know that our service members have encountered unidentified aerial phenomena, and because UAP pose potential flight safety and general security risks, we are committed to a focused effort to determine their origins," Moultrie, who oversees a newly formed Pentagon-based UAP investigation team as U.S. defense undersecretary for intelligence and security, told the hearing. Scott Bray showed two UAP clips to the panel. In one clip, a flashing triangle-shaped object in the night sky was seen. The other showed a shiny, spherical object zipping past the cockpit window of a military aircraft. "I do not have an explanation for what this specific object is," Bray said of the second object. Both the officials told the subcommittee that Pentagon wanted to remove stigma associated with sightings of UFOs and wanted to encourage pilots to report when they see such phenomena. The notion of alien spacecraft received no mention in last June's UAP presentation. The focus, instead, was on possible implications for US national security and aviation safety, as it was in Tuesday's hearing. The report did, however, include some UAPs previously revealed in Pentagon-released video footage of enigmatic airborne objects exhibiting speed and maneuverability exceeding known aviation technology and lacking any visible means of propulsion or flight-control surfaces. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pentagon shows declassified UFO videos to US Congress in public hearing 

There is no shortage of theories regarding UFOs or Unidentified Flying Objects, and it has always been associated with the idea of alien spacecrafts. However, it is no longer just conspiracy theories as two top defense intelligence officials will be testifying in front of a House Intelligence subcommittee about the information that the government currently possesses about UFOs.

This is the first public hearing concerning UFOs in almost 50 years and this comes almost a year after a government report which contained 140 instances of "unidentified aerial phenomena" which were reported by the US military pilots since 2004. However, there is a slight twist to the story.

The motive of this hearing has more to do with national security than alien life.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-backed-hezbollah-and-allies-lose-parliament-majority-in-lebanese-elections-479773" hreflang="en">Iran-backed Hezbollah &amp; allies lose parliamentary majority in Lebanese polls</a>

There were a few reports of flying objects which showed speeds and movements beyond existing technologies, but the overall focus will remain on increasing security as well aviation safety.

While the possibility to alien activity was not completely denied, the report focused more on the possibility of some secret technology which was developed by other countries.

According to AFP. the report, which was compiled by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and a Navy-led task force the Pentagon formed in 2020, will be examined once again.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bank-of-england-warns-of-apocalyptic-food-prices-due-to-ongoing-russia-ukraine-conflict-479760">Bank of England warns of 'apocalyptic' food prices due to Russia-Ukraine war</a>

The two officials who will be attending the hearing are Ronald Moultrie, US defense undersecretary for intelligence and security, and Scott Bray, deputy director of naval intelligence.

The last time UFOs were actually the subject of a hearing was back in 1969 which ended with the US Air Force terminating an inconclusive UFO program code-named Project Blue Book.

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There is no shortage of theories regarding UFOs or Unidentified Flying Objects, and it has always been associated with the idea of alien spacecrafts. However, it is no longer just conspiracy theories as two top defense intelligence officials will be testifying in front of a House Intelligence subcommittee about the information that the government currently possesses about UFOs.

There is no shortage of theories regarding UFOs or Unidentified Flying Objects, and it has always been associated with the idea of alien spacecrafts. However, it is no longer just conspiracy theories as two top defense intelligence officials will be testifying in front of a House Intelligence subcommittee about the information that the government currently possesses about UFOs. This is the first public hearing concerning UFOs in almost 50 years and this comes almost a year after a government report which contained 140 instances of "unidentified aerial phenomena" which were reported by the US military pilots since 2004. However, there is a slight twist to the story. The motive of this hearing has more to do with national security than alien life. Also read | Iran-backed Hezbollah & allies lose parliamentary majority in Lebanese polls There were a few reports of flying objects which showed speeds and movements beyond existing technologies, but the overall focus will remain on increasing security as well aviation safety. While the possibility to alien activity was not completely denied, the report focused more on the possibility of some secret technology which was developed by other countries. According to AFP. the report, which was compiled by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and a Navy-led task force the Pentagon formed in 2020, will be examined once again. Also read | Bank of England warns of 'apocalyptic' food prices due to Russia-Ukraine war The two officials who will be attending the hearing are Ronald Moultrie, US defense undersecretary for intelligence and security, and Scott Bray, deputy director of naval intelligence. The last time UFOs were actually the subject of a hearing was back in 1969 which ended with the US Air Force terminating an inconclusive UFO program code-named Project Blue Book. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US congress panel to host first public UFO hearing in almost half a century

For several decades, the existence of UFOs has caused a lot of debate around the globe. While the governments over the world have remained tight-lipped about its presence, the idea that there might be extra-terrestrial creatures living in outer space was never shot down entirely.

To uncover this phenomenon, the US Congress will be holding an open hearing about the UFOs for the first time in 50 years on the coming Tuesday (May 17).

The hearing will stream live starting at 9 am EST (6.30 pm IST) and it will be followed by a closed, classified hearing on the Pentagon program, known as the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group.

The House Intelligence Committee's subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Counterintelligence and Counterproliferation hearing will focus on a Pentagon program that was established last year after the US intelligence community released a preliminary assessment on 144 reports of "unidentified aerial phenomena' or UAPs' since 2004, out of which only one had been explained, reports CNN.

The highly-anticipated government report was published in June last year.

The report did not explicitly rule out the possibility of extraterrestrial technology, but it said there could be a variety of potential explanations, including airborne clutter, natural atmospheric phenomena, government or industry developmental programs, foreign adversary systems, or "other" reasons.

Indiana Representative Andre Carson will be chairing the hearing.

Taking to Twitter, Carson said, “Congress hasn't held a public hearing on UFOs in over 50 years.”

“That will change next week when I lead a hearing in House Intelligence on this topic and the national security risk it poses. Americans need to know more about these unexplained occurrences,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/1995-ufo-spotting-in-us-was-actually-that-of-celestial-bodies-claim-astronomers-478983" hreflang="en">1995 UFO sighting in US was actually of celestial bodies, claim astronomers</a>

The House committee will hear testimony from&nbsp;Scott Bray, the deputy director of naval intelligence, and Ronald Moultrie, under secretary of defence for intelligence and security.

Following the publication of the&nbsp;report&nbsp;last year, Carson said in a TV interview with CBS News that it was “inconclusive”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-rover-found-alien-doorway-on-mars-find-out-truth-478650">NASA’s rover found alien doorway on Mars? Find out truth</a>

“There have been nearly 150 sightings. Eighty of the sightings [were] detected with some of the best technology the world has ever seen. We can't rule out something that is otherworldly, but that's a very small percentage," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Decoding UFOs: What do we know about ‘flying saucers’?

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/decoding-ufos-what-do-we-know-about-flying-saucers-476318/embed" width="560"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

For several decades, the existence of UFOs has caused a lot of debate around the globe. While the governments over the world have remained tight-lipped about its presence, the idea that there might be extra-terrestrial creatures living in outer space was never shot down entirely.

For several decades, the existence of UFOs has caused a lot of debate around the globe. While the governments over the world have remained tight-lipped about its presence, the idea that there might be extra-terrestrial creatures living in outer space was never shot down entirely. To uncover this phenomenon, the US Congress will be holding an open hearing about the UFOs for the first time in 50 years on the coming Tuesday (May 17). The hearing will stream live starting at 9 am EST (6.30 pm IST) and it will be followed by a closed, classified hearing on the Pentagon program, known as the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group. The House Intelligence Committee's subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Counterintelligence and Counterproliferation hearing will focus on a Pentagon program that was established last year after the US intelligence community released a preliminary assessment on 144 reports of "unidentified aerial phenomena' or UAPs' since 2004, out of which only one had been explained, reports CNN. The highly-anticipated government report was published in June last year. The report did not explicitly rule out the possibility of extraterrestrial technology, but it said there could be a variety of potential explanations, including airborne clutter, natural atmospheric phenomena, government or industry developmental programs, foreign adversary systems, or "other" reasons. Indiana Representative Andre Carson will be chairing the hearing. Taking to Twitter, Carson said, “Congress hasn't held a public hearing on UFOs in over 50 years.” “That will change next week when I lead a hearing in House Intelligence on this topic and the national security risk it poses. Americans need to know more about these unexplained occurrences,” he added. Also read | 1995 UFO sighting in US was actually of celestial bodies, claim astronomers The House committee will hear testimony from Scott Bray, the deputy director of naval intelligence, and Ronald Moultrie, under secretary of defence for intelligence and security. Following the publication of the report last year, Carson said in a TV interview with CBS News that it was “inconclusive”. Also read | NASA’s rover found alien doorway on Mars? Find out truth “There have been nearly 150 sightings. Eighty of the sightings [were] detected with some of the best technology the world has ever seen. We can't rule out something that is otherworldly, but that's a very small percentage," he said. Watch | Decoding UFOs: What do we know about ‘flying saucers’? (With inputs from agencies)

Is there a UFO or not? The mystery is set to be revealed at Tuesday’s US Congress hearing

As Tesla CEO Elon Musk takes steps to complete the process to buy Twitter, US Senators of the Democratic Party are mulling calling the billionaire to testify before US Congress.&nbsp;

“We’re thinking about it,” Senate Commerce Chair Maria Cantwell said as quoted by Bloomberg.

Elon Musk has offered to buy social media giant Twitter for USD 44 billion. This is the third biggest acquisition in the tech world. Twitter has reached an agreement with Musk. The entire process is likely to take six months.

News of Musk taking over Twitter has elicited positive reactions from politicians of Republican Party.

There are voices in the tech world and outside expressing worry over Musk's acquisition of Twitter. It is being observed warily whether Elon Musk intends to loosen control on content on Twitter, the control measures that have been designed to reduce spread of disinformation.

When Musk made his offer, Twitter initially tried adopting 'poison pill' strategy. This strategy enables companies to flood the market with expensive shares making hostile acquisition impossible.

However, Twitter later on decided against this approach and struck an agreement with Elon Musk.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Musk has sold 4 billion dollar worth of his Tesla shares apparently to bolster fund generation for Twitter acquisition.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Tesla CEO Elon Musk takes steps to complete the process to buy Twitter, US Senators of the Democratic Party are mulling calling the billionaire to testify before US Congress.

As Tesla CEO Elon Musk takes steps to complete the process to buy Twitter, US Senators of the Democratic Party are mulling calling the billionaire to testify before US Congress. “We’re thinking about it,” Senate Commerce Chair Maria Cantwell said as quoted by Bloomberg. Elon Musk has offered to buy social media giant Twitter for USD 44 billion. This is the third biggest acquisition in the tech world. Twitter has reached an agreement with Musk. The entire process is likely to take six months. News of Musk taking over Twitter has elicited positive reactions from politicians of Republican Party. There are voices in the tech world and outside expressing worry over Musk's acquisition of Twitter. It is being observed warily whether Elon Musk intends to loosen control on content on Twitter, the control measures that have been designed to reduce spread of disinformation. When Musk made his offer, Twitter initially tried adopting 'poison pill' strategy. This strategy enables companies to flood the market with expensive shares making hostile acquisition impossible. However, Twitter later on decided against this approach and struck an agreement with Elon Musk. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Musk has sold 4 billion dollar worth of his Tesla shares apparently to bolster fund generation for Twitter acquisition. (With inputs from agencies)

US Senators mull calling Elon Musk to testify

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