As per the Pentagon, the so-called Chinese 'spy balloon' that crossed the continental United States from Alaska to the east coast in February did not collect any information.&nbsp;

On Thursday, officials stated that the US "took steps to mitigate" any potential intelligence-gathering capabilities of the suspected spy balloon. Debris collected from the downed balloon is currently being analysed by US intelligence agencies. The incident caused tension between the US and China.

<h2>What the Pentagon said</h2>

As per BBC, Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Pat Ryder acknowledged that the balloon was believed to possess intelligence collection capabilities.&nbsp;

He said that the US was "aware that (the balloon) had intelligence collection capabilities".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-spy-balloon-reportedly-used-us-technology-to-spy-on-americans-610126">Chinese 'spy' balloon reportedly used US technology to spy on Americans</a>

However, he added that the assessment now is that it did not collect any information.

"It has been our assessment now that it did not collect [information] while it was transiting the United States or over flying the United States."

Gen Ryder said that the efforts were undertaken by the US to counter any intelligence gathering and it "contributed" to the balloon's failure to gather sensitive data.&nbsp;

The General, as per BBC, did not confirm reports that American-made equipment was part of the balloon. However, he noted that Chinese drones have previously utilised off-the-shelf US equipment.

<h2>Chinese spy balloon in US, Canadian skies</h2>

As per new images made available recently, the Chinese spy balloon spent approximately a week flying over the United States and Canada in February before being shot down by a fighter jet off the Atlantic coast under the orders of President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

Sensors from the balloon were subsequently retrieved from the ocean. There were concerns that Beijing may have intended to gather information as the balloon passed over US military bases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-images-show-chinese-spy-balloons-also-targeted-asia-as-japan-vows-retaliation-608935">New images show Chinese spy balloons also targeted Asia as Japan vows retaliation</a>

However, Chinese officials asserted that it was a civilian weather balloon and accused the US of overreacting by shooting it down.

As a result of the incident, Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a diplomatic trip to Beijing. However, the trip was rescheduled and took place earlier this month.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

As per the Pentagon, the so-called Chinese 'spy balloon' that crossed the continental United States from Alaska to the east coast in February did not collect any information.

As per the Pentagon, the so-called Chinese 'spy balloon' that crossed the continental United States from Alaska to the east coast in February did not collect any information. On Thursday, officials stated that the US "took steps to mitigate" any potential intelligence-gathering capabilities of the suspected spy balloon. Debris collected from the downed balloon is currently being analysed by US intelligence agencies. The incident caused tension between the US and China. What the Pentagon said As per BBC, Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Pat Ryder acknowledged that the balloon was believed to possess intelligence collection capabilities. He said that the US was "aware that (the balloon) had intelligence collection capabilities". Also read | Chinese 'spy' balloon reportedly used US technology to spy on Americans However, he added that the assessment now is that it did not collect any information. "It has been our assessment now that it did not collect [information] while it was transiting the United States or over flying the United States." Gen Ryder said that the efforts were undertaken by the US to counter any intelligence gathering and it "contributed" to the balloon's failure to gather sensitive data. The General, as per BBC, did not confirm reports that American-made equipment was part of the balloon. However, he noted that Chinese drones have previously utilised off-the-shelf US equipment. Chinese spy balloon in US, Canadian skies As per new images made available recently, the Chinese spy balloon spent approximately a week flying over the United States and Canada in February before being shot down by a fighter jet off the Atlantic coast under the orders of President Joe Biden. Sensors from the balloon were subsequently retrieved from the ocean. There were concerns that Beijing may have intended to gather information as the balloon passed over US military bases. Also read | New images show Chinese spy balloons also targeted Asia as Japan vows retaliation However, Chinese officials asserted that it was a civilian weather balloon and accused the US of overreacting by shooting it down. As a result of the incident, Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a diplomatic trip to Beijing. However, the trip was rescheduled and took place earlier this month. (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.

Chinese spy balloon failed to gather intelligence flying over US: Pentagon

Earlier this year, a Chinese 'spy'&nbsp;balloon was spotted in the skies of the United States and was later shot down by jets over the Atlantic Ocean — an incident which escalated tensions between Washington and Beijing. Now, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday (June 28), citing preliminary findings from a closely held probe, that the spy balloon used American technology to&nbsp;collect audio-visual information.&nbsp;

Citing US officials, WSJ said that analysis from several US defence and intelligence agencies found that the balloon carried commercially available US gear, along with more specialised Chinese sensors and other equipment to collect photographs, video and other information to transmit to China.&nbsp;

The report said that the findings support a conclusion that the balloon was intended for spying, and not for weather monitoring as claimed by China. WSJ said that the balloon did not seem to send data from its eight-day passage over Alaska, Canada and some other contiguous US states back to China.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-man-jailed-for-smuggling-800-people-into-us-using-uber-610082">Indian-Origin man jailed for smuggling over 800 Indians into US using Uber</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Spy balloon saga&nbsp;</h2>

American authorities tracked the balloon after it was spotted, they later scrambled jets to shoot it down and had collected the debris to analyse it. However, China said that the balloon was a civilian 'airship'&nbsp;which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes.&nbsp;

The balloon episode sparked diplomatic tensions and posed an immediate impact on US-China ties.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-green-energy-push-gives-china-top-renewable-energy-dividends-610050">Xi Jinping's green energy push gives China top renewable energy dividends</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US Cities under air quality alerts amid haze of Canada wildfires

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-cities-under-air-quality-alerts-amid-haze-of-canada-wildfires-610080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After the incident, a senior State Department official said that the spy balloon had equipment that was "clearly for intelligence surveillance," including "multiple antennas" that were "likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications".&nbsp;

The officials in the US had claimed that the balloon could have been a part of a huge aerial spy programme operated by the Chinese military, which apparently targeted more than 40 countries on five continents.&nbsp;

The US is also confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon has a "direct relationship" with the People's Liberation Army (PLA).&nbsp;

As quoted by news agencies, an official had said on grounds of anonymity that "it [the balloon] had multiple antennas to include an array likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications."&nbsp;

"It was equipped with solar panels large enough to produce the requisite power to operate multiple active intelligence collection sensors," it added.&nbsp;

It was basically meant to collect information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Earlier this year, a Chinese 'spy' balloon was spotted in the skies of the United States and was later shot down by jets over the Atlantic Ocean — an incident which escalated tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Earlier this year, a Chinese 'spy' balloon was spotted in the skies of the United States and was later shot down by jets over the Atlantic Ocean — an incident which escalated tensions between Washington and Beijing. Now, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday (June 28), citing preliminary findings from a closely held probe, that the spy balloon used American technology to collect audio-visual information. Citing US officials, WSJ said that analysis from several US defence and intelligence agencies found that the balloon carried commercially available US gear, along with more specialised Chinese sensors and other equipment to collect photographs, video and other information to transmit to China. The report said that the findings support a conclusion that the balloon was intended for spying, and not for weather monitoring as claimed by China. WSJ said that the balloon did not seem to send data from its eight-day passage over Alaska, Canada and some other contiguous US states back to China. Also read: Indian-Origin man jailed for smuggling over 800 Indians into US using Uber Spy balloon saga American authorities tracked the balloon after it was spotted, they later scrambled jets to shoot it down and had collected the debris to analyse it. However, China said that the balloon was a civilian 'airship' which was used for research, mainly meteorological purposes. The balloon episode sparked diplomatic tensions and posed an immediate impact on US-China ties. Also read: Xi Jinping's green energy push gives China top renewable energy dividends Watch: US Cities under air quality alerts amid haze of Canada wildfires × After the incident, a senior State Department official said that the spy balloon had equipment that was "clearly for intelligence surveillance," including "multiple antennas" that were "likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications". The officials in the US had claimed that the balloon could have been a part of a huge aerial spy programme operated by the Chinese military, which apparently targeted more than 40 countries on five continents. The US is also confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon has a "direct relationship" with the People's Liberation Army (PLA). As quoted by news agencies, an official had said on grounds of anonymity that "it [the balloon] had multiple antennas to include an array likely capable of collecting and geo-locating communications." "It was equipped with solar panels large enough to produce the requisite power to operate multiple active intelligence collection sensors," it added. It was basically meant to collect information on military assets in countries and areas of emerging strategic interest to China including Japan, India, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines. (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.

Chinese 'spy' balloon reportedly used US technology to spy on Americans

Donald Trump got a letter indicting him of criminal charges yet again and a day before he turned 77 he'll be appearing in court amid heightened passions from supporters from sensitive documents being stored in the shower to disclosing classified information to friends Trump has been indicted on 37 charges former US attorney General William Barr claims that if even half of it is true then Trump could easily land behind bars.

Donald Trump's legal battle continues, Trump blasts federal indictment as baseless

Latest data from the US Commerce department shows that trade deficit in April widened to a six-month high. That's because exports saw its biggest decline since the pandemic began in 2020 while imports rose too. The shortfall in trade grew by $14 billion, from a month earlier, to 74.6 billion dollars. Total exports fell 3.6%, the most since April 2020, to 249 billion dollars, while imports rose 1.5% to 323.6 billion dollars.

US trade deficit widens in April 2023

Joe Biden tripped and fell after handing out the last diploma at a graduation ceremony at the US Air force academy, but got up quickly and walked back to his seat. On his arrival at the White House, Biden joked about tripping on stage and said, i got sandbagged. Remember, Biden is the oldest person to hold the oval office. Polls show Americans are concerned about anyone over 75 becoming president. His leading republican opponent, Donald Trump, turns 77 this month. In February, doctors declared Biden healthy and fit for duty after a physical examination. Back then, doctors noted the US President does not drink alcohol or use tobacco, and exercises at least five times a week. Biden fell as he was dismounting his bicycle last June, after snaring a foot in a toe clip, but was uninjured.

Biden jokes after tripping, again | US President fell as he was dismounting his bicycle last June

Donald Trump claimed to have declassified the vast collection of federal records he brought to Mar-a-Lago, but this claim was always questionable. According to a report from CNN on Wednesday, federal prosecutors in charge of the investigation into the documents have discovered a video of the former president confessing to having a classified dossier with information regarding a possible strike strategy against Iran.

Donald Trump caught on tape admitting he kept classified documents: Report

Economist and YouGov have published results of a poll asking Americans how much they trusted the prominent media organisations in the country. They conducted the poll between the 3rd and the 9th of April. For results, watch the video

Polls of the most trusted news sources in US

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday rejected Russia's resolution calling for an independent inquiry into last year's sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines. Three UNSC members, namely Russia, China and Brazil, voted yes for the resolution, while the remaining 12 members abstained from voting. As per AFP the resolution called for the creation of a commission to "conduct a comprehensive, transparent and impartial international investigation of all aspects of the act of sabotage on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines, including identification of its perpetrators, sponsors, organisers and accomplices."

UNSC rejects Russian resolution demanding probe into Nord Stream blast

Nord Stream blasts: Will do everything we can to stop western cover-up, says Russia

Nord Stream blasts: We will seek compensation for pipeline damages, says Russian officials

A major international mystery with global consequences: Who was behind the explosions that damaged the Nord Stream gas pipelines last year in the Baltic Sea? The answer has broad implications for European energy security but could also threaten Western unity over backing Ukraine in defending itself from Russia's invasion. Or, it might shatter Russian and Chinese attempts to fix the blame on a hypocritical West.

The  Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report

In Global Round-Up by WION, we bring you news from around the world. In today's edition - U.S. government charged Guo Wengui, an exiled Chinese businessman with a complex conspiracy to defraud Guo's online followers out of more than $1 billion.

U.S. charges exiled Chinese businessman with $1 bn fraud

Chinese business tycoon Guo Wengui was arrested on Wednesday and charged with defrauding thousands of followers out of more than $1 billion through complex investment schemes, U.S. prosecutors announced. Guo is charged with defrauding or misappropriating investor money using different schemes, including his media company GTV Media Group, a farm loan program through Himalaya Farm Alliance, and a cryptocurrency called Himalaya Coin.

Exiled Chinese business tycoon charged in U.S. in over $1 billion fraud

US President Joe Biden has announced a new executive order to combat gun violence in the country. The latest gun control measures aims at increasing background checks to buy guns and also promote secure firearms storage. Biden also said that he is determined to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines once again.

Biden signs executive order reinforcing background checks for gun buyers in U.S.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday (March 9) proposed spending of more than USD 25 billion, mostly to be spent in the Indo-Pacific region with an eye on growing Chinese assertiveness. The huge expenditure will be focussed at critical infrastructure sector and defence sector.

The proposed expenditure includes over USD 15 billion of proposed investment in the infrastructure sector in the Indo-Pacific and USD 9 billion for shoring up American defence in the region.

“This Budget cements our commitment to confronting global challenges and keeping America safe. It outlines crucial investments to out-compete China globally and to continue support for Ukraine in the face of unprovoked Russian aggression,” Biden said in his message to the Congress.

Biden said it also continues his administration’s work to restore America’s global leadership – reviving key alliances and partnerships, strengthening the military, fostering democracy and human rights, protecting global health, honouring the veterans, fixing immigration systems at home, and advancing cybersecurity through implementation of the National Cybersecurity Strategy.

China is the United States’ only competitor with both the intent to reshape the international order and, increasingly, the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do it, according to Biden’s budgetary proposals sent to the Congress Thursday noon.

During these unprecedented and extraordinary times, the Budget requests both discretionary and mandatory resources to out-compete China and advance American prosperity globally, the White House said.

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on Thursday (March 9) proposed spending of more than USD 25 billion, mostly to be spent in the Indo-Pacific region with an eye on growing Chinese assertiveness.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday (March 9) proposed spending of more than USD 25 billion, mostly to be spent in the Indo-Pacific region with an eye on growing Chinese assertiveness. The huge expenditure will be focussed at critical infrastructure sector and defence sector. The proposed expenditure includes over USD 15 billion of proposed investment in the infrastructure sector in the Indo-Pacific and USD 9 billion for shoring up American defence in the region. “This Budget cements our commitment to confronting global challenges and keeping America safe. It outlines crucial investments to out-compete China globally and to continue support for Ukraine in the face of unprovoked Russian aggression,” Biden said in his message to the Congress. Biden said it also continues his administration’s work to restore America’s global leadership – reviving key alliances and partnerships, strengthening the military, fostering democracy and human rights, protecting global health, honouring the veterans, fixing immigration systems at home, and advancing cybersecurity through implementation of the National Cybersecurity Strategy. China is the United States’ only competitor with both the intent to reshape the international order and, increasingly, the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do it, according to Biden’s budgetary proposals sent to the Congress Thursday noon. During these unprecedented and extraordinary times, the Budget requests both discretionary and mandatory resources to out-compete China and advance American prosperity globally, the White House said. (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 ×

Biden proposes mega-spending of USD 25 billion to counter China in Indo-Pacific

A foreign adversary is "very unlikely" to have been behind the 'Havana syndrome', the mysterious illness that affected US diplomats, according to intelligence agencies. Many diplomats across the world have reported feeling symptoms since 2016, fuelling speculation about links to a hostile foreign power. Declassified findings were released on Wednesday (March 2) after seven US intel agencies carried out investigations that spanned several years. The findings, first reported by the Washington Post, “contradict in nearly every respect” claims from those affected that they were “victims of a deliberate attack". &nbsp;

Over 1,000 incidents related to US diplomats, spies and other employees in embassies across 90 countries were assessed during the multi-year investigation. Intelligence officers, military and State Department staff and high-level aides to government figures such as Vice President Kamala Harris were among the victims, as per a BBC report. The report casts doubts on speculation that symptoms could have been caused by a mysterious energy weapon. The report also found "no credible evidence" that any American foe possessed "a weapon or collection device," including an emitter of electromagnetic energy pulses, that could cause the symptoms.

Also watch| Gravitas Plus: The unsolved mystery of Havana Syndrome

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-the-unsolved-mystery-of-havana-syndrome-400402/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Those affected experienced migraines, nausea, memory lapses and dizziness. The intel agencies have said that pre-existing conditions, conventional illnesses and environmental factors could have led to such symptoms among officials.&nbsp;

The White House, meanwhile, has assured "unwavering" support to affected personnel. On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing that the government "will continue to provide care to personnel, support research efforts and process Havana Act payments," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

A foreign adversary is "very unlikely" to have been behind the 'Havana syndrome', the mysterious illness that affected US diplomats, according to intelligence agencies.

A foreign adversary is "very unlikely" to have been behind the 'Havana syndrome', the mysterious illness that affected US diplomats, according to intelligence agencies. Many diplomats across the world have reported feeling symptoms since 2016, fuelling speculation about links to a hostile foreign power. Declassified findings were released on Wednesday (March 2) after seven US intel agencies carried out investigations that spanned several years. The findings, first reported by the Washington Post, “contradict in nearly every respect” claims from those affected that they were “victims of a deliberate attack". Over 1,000 incidents related to US diplomats, spies and other employees in embassies across 90 countries were assessed during the multi-year investigation. Intelligence officers, military and State Department staff and high-level aides to government figures such as Vice President Kamala Harris were among the victims, as per a BBC report. The report casts doubts on speculation that symptoms could have been caused by a mysterious energy weapon. The report also found "no credible evidence" that any American foe possessed "a weapon or collection device," including an emitter of electromagnetic energy pulses, that could cause the symptoms. Also watch| Gravitas Plus: The unsolved mystery of Havana Syndrome × Those affected experienced migraines, nausea, memory lapses and dizziness. The intel agencies have said that pre-existing conditions, conventional illnesses and environmental factors could have led to such symptoms among officials. The White House, meanwhile, has assured "unwavering" support to affected personnel. On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing that the government "will continue to provide care to personnel, support research efforts and process Havana Act payments," news agency Reuters reported. (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.

No foreign powers behind 'Havana syndrome': New report contradicts earlier claims

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States is investigating a close call between two planes on Monday (February 27) at Boston Logan International Airport. One of the two planes, the federal agency said, took off without clearance while the other was preparing to land on an intersecting runway. &nbsp; The incident occurred at 7 pm local time between a Learjet and a JetBlue flight. &nbsp;The JetBlue pilot had to take an "evasive action" to prevent a crash when the Learjet plane took off without clearance. As part of the probe, the FAA will determine the closest proximity between two planes.&nbsp;

"An air traffic controller instructed the pilot of the Learjet to line up and wait on Runway 9 while the JetBlue Embraer 190 landed on Runway 4-Right, which intersects Runway 9. The Learjet pilot read back the instructions clearly but began a takeoff roll instead," the FAA stated. "The pilot of the JetBlue aircraft took evasive action and initiated a climb-out as the Learjet crossed the intersection. The Learjet was operated by Hop-A-Jet, a private charter company," it further added. &nbsp;In a tweet, the agency further highlighted: "Review of ADS-B data shows the aircraft came within approximately 565 feet as the Learjet crossed RWY 4R(sic)."

 
Also watch|&nbsp;FAA: U.S. aviation sector regulator, Boeing deliveries halted over fuselage issue

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/faa-us-aviation-sector-regulator-boeing-deliveries-halted-over-fuselage-issue-565410/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

JetBlue issued a statement over the incident and stressed: “Safety is JetBlue’s first priority and our crews are trained to react to situations like this."

A similar near miss was reported at the John F Kennedy international airport in New York in January while another one was reported in Texas in February. &nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States is investigating a close call between two planes on Monday (February 27) at Boston Logan International Airport.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States is investigating a close call between two planes on Monday (February 27) at Boston Logan International Airport. One of the two planes, the federal agency said, took off without clearance while the other was preparing to land on an intersecting runway. The incident occurred at 7 pm local time between a Learjet and a JetBlue flight. The JetBlue pilot had to take an "evasive action" to prevent a crash when the Learjet plane took off without clearance. As part of the probe, the FAA will determine the closest proximity between two planes. "An air traffic controller instructed the pilot of the Learjet to line up and wait on Runway 9 while the JetBlue Embraer 190 landed on Runway 4-Right, which intersects Runway 9. The Learjet pilot read back the instructions clearly but began a takeoff roll instead," the FAA stated. "The pilot of the JetBlue aircraft took evasive action and initiated a climb-out as the Learjet crossed the intersection. The Learjet was operated by Hop-A-Jet, a private charter company," it further added. In a tweet, the agency further highlighted: "Review of ADS-B data shows the aircraft came within approximately 565 feet as the Learjet crossed RWY 4R(sic)." Also watch| FAA: U.S. aviation sector regulator, Boeing deliveries halted over fuselage issue × JetBlue issued a statement over the incident and stressed: “Safety is JetBlue’s first priority and our crews are trained to react to situations like this." A similar near miss was reported at the John F Kennedy international airport in New York in January while another one was reported in Texas in February. (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.

At Boston airport, pilot's 'evasive action' prevents crash; matter under probe

Conservative US&nbsp;Supreme Court justices on Tuesday (February 28) signaled skepticism over the legality of President Joe Biden's plan to cancel $430 billion in student debt for about 40 million borrowers, with the fate of his policy that fulfilled a campaign promise hanging in the balance.

The nine justices heard arguments in appeals by Biden's administration of two lower court rulings blocking the policy that he unveiled last August in legal challenges by six conservative-leaning states and two individual student loan borrowers opposed to the plan's eligibility requirements.

Under the plan, the U.S. government would forgive up to $10,000 in federal student debt for Americans making under $125,000 who took out loans to pay for college and other post-secondary education and $20,000 for recipients of Pell grants awarded to students from lower-income families.

U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, arguing on behalf of Biden's administration, faced skeptical questions from conservative justices including John Roberts, Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh about the legal underpinning of the policy and its fairness.

Roberts, the chief justice, questioned whether the scale of the relief could be considered a mere modification of an existing student loan program, as allowed under the law the administration cited as authorizing it.

"We're talking about half a trillion dollars and 43 million Americans. How does that fit under the normal understanding of 'modify'?" Roberts asked.

The policy, intended to ease the financial burden on debt-saddled borrowers, faced scrutiny by the court under the so-called major questions doctrine. Its 6-3 conservative majority has employed this muscular judicial approach to invalidate major Biden policies deemed lacking clear congressional authorization.

Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor also noted the high-dollar amount at issue.

"How do you deal with that?" Sotomayor asked Prelogar. "That seems to favor the argument that this is a major question."

Questioned by Alito about whether a member of Congress would consider this policy a major question, Prelogar said, "Of course, we acknowledge that this is an economically significant action. But I think that can't possibly be the sole measure for triggering application of the major questions doctrine."

Prelogar said that "national policies these days frequently do involve more substantial costs or trigger political controversy." Prelogar added that Biden's plan "is not an assertion of regulatory authority at all. This is the administration of a benefits program."

A 2003 federal law called the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act, or HEROES Act, authorizes the U.S. education secretary to "waive or modify" student financial assistance during war or national emergencies."

Many borrowers experienced financial strain during the COVID-19 pandemic, a declared public health emergency. Beginning in 2020, the administrations of President Donald Trump, a Republican, and Biden, a Democrat, paused federal student loan payments and halted interest from accruing, relying upon the HEROES Act.

The program fulfilled Biden's 2020 campaign promise to cancel a portion of $1.6 trillion in federal student loan debt. Republicans called it an overreach of his authority.

The states that challenged it were Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina. The individual borrowers were Myra Brown and Alexander Taylor.

Also watch| Biden administration extends student loan payment pause till June amid a legal battle

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/economists-say-bidens-student-loan-waiver-can-worsen-already-high-inflation-511249/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Roberts told Prelogar the case reminded him of Trump's effort - blocked by the Supreme Court - to end a program that protects from deportation hundreds of thousands of immigrants, often called "Dreamers," who entered the United States illegally as children.

"This is a case that presents extraordinarily serious, important issues about the role of Congress and about the role that we should exercise in scrutinizing that - significant enough that the major questions doctrine ought to be considered implicated?" Roberts asked.

Kavanaugh said Congress, in the HEROES Act, did not specifically authorize loan cancellation or forgiveness and that Biden's administration pursued a "massive new program."

"That seems problematic," Kavanaugh said.

Hundreds of demonstrators including borrowers rallied in favor of Biden's relief plan outside the court. Biden wrote on Twitter, "The relief is critical to over 40 million Americans as they recover from the economic crisis caused by the pandemic. We're confident it's legal."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-extends-student-loan-payment-pause-till-june-amid-a-legal-battle-536609">Biden administration extends student loan payment pause till June amid a legal battle</a>

Some Republicans have attacked Biden's plan as unfair because it benefits certain Americans - college-educated borrowers - and not other people.

“Why was it fair to the people who didn't get arguably comparable relief? Now it may be that their interests were outweighed by the interests of those who were benefited or they were somehow less deserve deserving of solicitude. But what is your answer to that question?” Justice Alito asked.

Prelogar responded to such "fairness" concerns raised by conservative justices by saying that "you can make that critique of every prior" government relief to various Americans under the HEROES Act.

The liberal justices raised doubts that the state challengers had the proper legal standing to bring their lawsuit based on the claim that Biden's plan would harm Missouri-based student loan servicer known as the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri (MOHELA). They noted MOHELA did not itself bring the lawsuit.

The court's rulings on the matter are due by the end of June.

 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

Conservative US Supreme Court justices on Tuesday (February 28) signaled skepticism over the legality of President Joe Biden's plan to cancel $430 billion in student debt for about 40 million borrowers, with the fate of his policy that fulfilled a campaign promise hanging in the balance.

Conservative US Supreme Court justices on Tuesday (February 28) signaled skepticism over the legality of President Joe Biden's plan to cancel $430 billion in student debt for about 40 million borrowers, with the fate of his policy that fulfilled a campaign promise hanging in the balance. The nine justices heard arguments in appeals by Biden's administration of two lower court rulings blocking the policy that he unveiled last August in legal challenges by six conservative-leaning states and two individual student loan borrowers opposed to the plan's eligibility requirements. Under the plan, the U.S. government would forgive up to $10,000 in federal student debt for Americans making under $125,000 who took out loans to pay for college and other post-secondary education and $20,000 for recipients of Pell grants awarded to students from lower-income families. U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, arguing on behalf of Biden's administration, faced skeptical questions from conservative justices including John Roberts, Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh about the legal underpinning of the policy and its fairness. Roberts, the chief justice, questioned whether the scale of the relief could be considered a mere modification of an existing student loan program, as allowed under the law the administration cited as authorizing it. "We're talking about half a trillion dollars and 43 million Americans. How does that fit under the normal understanding of 'modify'?" Roberts asked. The policy, intended to ease the financial burden on debt-saddled borrowers, faced scrutiny by the court under the so-called major questions doctrine. Its 6-3 conservative majority has employed this muscular judicial approach to invalidate major Biden policies deemed lacking clear congressional authorization. Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor also noted the high-dollar amount at issue. "How do you deal with that?" Sotomayor asked Prelogar. "That seems to favor the argument that this is a major question." Questioned by Alito about whether a member of Congress would consider this policy a major question, Prelogar said, "Of course, we acknowledge that this is an economically significant action. But I think that can't possibly be the sole measure for triggering application of the major questions doctrine." Prelogar said that "national policies these days frequently do involve more substantial costs or trigger political controversy." Prelogar added that Biden's plan "is not an assertion of regulatory authority at all. This is the administration of a benefits program." A 2003 federal law called the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act, or HEROES Act, authorizes the U.S. education secretary to "waive or modify" student financial assistance during war or national emergencies." Many borrowers experienced financial strain during the COVID-19 pandemic, a declared public health emergency. Beginning in 2020, the administrations of President Donald Trump, a Republican, and Biden, a Democrat, paused federal student loan payments and halted interest from accruing, relying upon the HEROES Act. The program fulfilled Biden's 2020 campaign promise to cancel a portion of $1.6 trillion in federal student loan debt. Republicans called it an overreach of his authority. The states that challenged it were Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina. The individual borrowers were Myra Brown and Alexander Taylor. Also watch| Biden administration extends student loan payment pause till June amid a legal battle × Roberts told Prelogar the case reminded him of Trump's effort - blocked by the Supreme Court - to end a program that protects from deportation hundreds of thousands of immigrants, often called "Dreamers," who entered the United States illegally as children. "This is a case that presents extraordinarily serious, important issues about the role of Congress and about the role that we should exercise in scrutinizing that - significant enough that the major questions doctrine ought to be considered implicated?" Roberts asked. Kavanaugh said Congress, in the HEROES Act, did not specifically authorize loan cancellation or forgiveness and that Biden's administration pursued a "massive new program." "That seems problematic," Kavanaugh said. Hundreds of demonstrators including borrowers rallied in favor of Biden's relief plan outside the court. Biden wrote on Twitter, "The relief is critical to over 40 million Americans as they recover from the economic crisis caused by the pandemic. We're confident it's legal." Also read: Biden administration extends student loan payment pause till June amid a legal battle Some Republicans have attacked Biden's plan as unfair because it benefits certain Americans - college-educated borrowers - and not other people. “Why was it fair to the people who didn't get arguably comparable relief? Now it may be that their interests were outweighed by the interests of those who were benefited or they were somehow less deserve deserving of solicitude. But what is your answer to that question?” Justice Alito asked. Prelogar responded to such "fairness" concerns raised by conservative justices by saying that "you can make that critique of every prior" government relief to various Americans under the HEROES Act. The liberal justices raised doubts that the state challengers had the proper legal standing to bring their lawsuit based on the claim that Biden's plan would harm Missouri-based student loan servicer known as the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri (MOHELA). They noted MOHELA did not itself bring the lawsuit. The court's rulings on the matter are due by the end of June. 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 Supreme Court conservatives cast doubt over Biden student loan plan

When an 80-year-old man in Texas, United States, had to return to work post retirement because of a hike in the house rent, some students of a school - where he worked as a janitor - came forward to help him and leveraged the power of social media. They managed to raise about $270,000 to help James, the elderly janitor, get some much-deserved rest. According to local media, he was forced to come back to resume the daily work routine when the rent was increased to $400 a month.

Initially, the students had aimed to raise about $10,000 when the campaign was started on online fundraising website GoFundMe on February 15. "This is our 80-year-old janitor who has rent raised and had to come back to work. Let's help Mr James out," Greyson Thurman, one of the students, wrote on TikTok along with a photo that captured the elderly man in the middle of his daily routine.&nbsp; “Nobody at that age should be working; they should be living the rest of their life," Thurman told KDFW Fox 4, a local news outlet. In a span of 10 days, however, around 8,600 users came forward. The top donor contributed $2,500.

Also watch: Trending on WION | Turkey Earthquake: 9-year-old boy donates piggy-bank savings to relief funds

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-turkey-earthquake-9-year-old-boy-donates-piggy-bank-savings-to-relief-funds-561735/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Thanking people for the success of the campaign, Thurman left a note on Friday (February 25) on the GoFundMe page, saying that he was asked by James to close the campaign.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp; <a href="http://wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-quake-anonymous-pakistani-donor-in-us-donates-30-million-to-victims-561506">Turkey-Syria quake: Anonymous Pakistani donor in US donates $30 million to victims</a>

"Thank you everyone who donated and helped Mr. James enjoy his retirement, he asked for us to take down the GoFundMe today, He is very appreciative of everyone willing to give up their time to help him out and change his life. You all have shown what can happen when everyone gets together to help others. I think God did this to show that no matter how much evil there is good will always show it’s self! Mr. James thanks you all," he wrote.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

When an 80-year-old man in Texas, United States, had to return to work post retirement because of a hike in the house rent, some students of a school - where he worked as a janitor - came forward to help him and leveraged the power of social media.

When an 80-year-old man in Texas, United States, had to return to work post retirement because of a hike in the house rent, some students of a school - where he worked as a janitor - came forward to help him and leveraged the power of social media. They managed to raise about $270,000 to help James, the elderly janitor, get some much-deserved rest. According to local media, he was forced to come back to resume the daily work routine when the rent was increased to $400 a month. Initially, the students had aimed to raise about $10,000 when the campaign was started on online fundraising website GoFundMe on February 15. "This is our 80-year-old janitor who has rent raised and had to come back to work. Let's help Mr James out," Greyson Thurman, one of the students, wrote on TikTok along with a photo that captured the elderly man in the middle of his daily routine. “Nobody at that age should be working; they should be living the rest of their life," Thurman told KDFW Fox 4, a local news outlet. In a span of 10 days, however, around 8,600 users came forward. The top donor contributed $2,500. Also watch: Trending on WION | Turkey Earthquake: 9-year-old boy donates piggy-bank savings to relief funds × Thanking people for the success of the campaign, Thurman left a note on Friday (February 25) on the GoFundMe page, saying that he was asked by James to close the campaign. Also read: Turkey-Syria quake: Anonymous Pakistani donor in US donates $30 million to victims "Thank you everyone who donated and helped Mr. James enjoy his retirement, he asked for us to take down the GoFundMe today, He is very appreciative of everyone willing to give up their time to help him out and change his life. You all have shown what can happen when everyone gets together to help others. I think God did this to show that no matter how much evil there is good will always show it’s self! Mr. James thanks you all," he wrote. 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 students raise over $270K for janitor's retirement: 'Nobody deserves...'

Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury. The investigators have been probing claims about Trump's efforts to stay in power after losing the 2020 presidential election. A pro-Trump mob carried out the Capitol Hill riots months after he lost. The 76-year-old business magnate-politician last year yet again announced the bid to run in the elections in 2024.

In November, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith to take over two investigations against the former president. While one of them pertains to his handling of highly sensitive classified documents he retained at his Florida resort after leaving the White House in January 2021, the other one is linked to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election's results. Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, former national security adviser Robert O'Brien and former chief of staff to Trump, Mark Meadows, are among others have been subpoenaed by Smith in his probes, as per reports.

Watch: Georgia grand jury recommended charging multiple people in Trump election probe

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/georgia-grand-jury-recommended-charging-multiple-people-in-trump-election-probe-564856/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Pence, who was presiding over a joint session at the US Capitol when Trump supporters stormed into the building, has suggested that he might challenge the summons in the Supreme Court.

&nbsp;

<h2>Where were Ivanka and Kushner on the fateful day of US capitol riots</h2>

 
Ivanka Trump, 41, who was a senior advisor in the Trump administration, was in the Oval Office on January 6, according to the New York Times report, which adds that her father dialed up Pence in a bid to block or delay certification of the Electoral College results documenting Joe Biden win.

&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/top-fox-news-executives-mocked-trumps-election-rigging-claims-court-filing-shows-563011">Top Fox News executives mocked Trump’s election rigging claims, court filing shows</a>

Kushner had returned from a foreign visit that day and he later went to the White House as riots unfolded.

(With agency inputs)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury.

Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury. The investigators have been probing claims about Trump's efforts to stay in power after losing the 2020 presidential election. A pro-Trump mob carried out the Capitol Hill riots months after he lost. The 76-year-old business magnate-politician last year yet again announced the bid to run in the elections in 2024. In November, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith to take over two investigations against the former president. While one of them pertains to his handling of highly sensitive classified documents he retained at his Florida resort after leaving the White House in January 2021, the other one is linked to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election's results. Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, former national security adviser Robert O'Brien and former chief of staff to Trump, Mark Meadows, are among others have been subpoenaed by Smith in his probes, as per reports. Watch: Georgia grand jury recommended charging multiple people in Trump election probe × Pence, who was presiding over a joint session at the US Capitol when Trump supporters stormed into the building, has suggested that he might challenge the summons in the Supreme Court. Where were Ivanka and Kushner on the fateful day of US capitol riots Ivanka Trump, 41, who was a senior advisor in the Trump administration, was in the Oval Office on January 6, according to the New York Times report, which adds that her father dialed up Pence in a bid to block or delay certification of the Electoral College results documenting Joe Biden win. Also read: Top Fox News executives mocked Trump’s election rigging claims, court filing shows Kushner had returned from a foreign visit that day and he later went to the White House as riots unfolded. (With agency inputs) 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.

Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka, son-in-law Jared Kushner summoned in Capitol Hill riots probe: Report

A gunman went on a shooting rampage, killing six people, including&nbsp;his stepfather and ex-wife on Friday at multiple locations in northern Mississippi, said the sheriff, as investigators looked for clues to find out the motive behind the attack.&nbsp;Richard Dale Crum, aged 52, was armed with a shotgun and two handguns, when he opened fire at about 11 am, killing a man who was sitting on a pickup truck's driver's seat parked outside a convenience store in Arkabutla, said Tate County Sheriff Brad Lance.

Local law enforcement officials, as cited by CBS-affiliate WREG, stated that the man then reached another home, which was reported as his own residence, where he shot dead two more people. The deputies were investigating the initial crime scene when they received a second call informing them about another shooting that took place a few miles away.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/active-shooting-at-michigan-state-university-5-shot-fatalities-feared-561691">Three dead in shooting at Michigan State University, suspect found dead</a>&nbsp;

When the authorities reached home, they found a dead woman who was as identified as Crum's ex-wife by the sheriff and her current husband was found injured.

Crum was caught by the deputies outside his own house, where he was arrested, Lance said. The authorities also discovered two handymen killed by gunfire, one was found in an SUV and the other was lying dead on the road.

The bodies of Crum's stepfather and the sister of his stepfather were also discovered in the neighbouring home. "Everybody has crime, and from time to time we have violent crime, but certainly nothing of this magnitude. Without being able to say what triggered this, that's the scary part,” Lance said.

Crum was jailed on the charge of capital murder without a bond and Lance added that an investigation is underway to bring additional charges. The man has also been slapped with the charge of killing Chris Eugene Boyce, 59, who was sitting in the truck outside the store.

WATCH | WION Speed News: Buffalo mass shooter sentenced to life; 1 killed, 3 wounded in Texas mall shooting

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speed-news-buffalo-mass-shooter-sentenced-to-life-1-killed-3-wounded-in-texas-mall-shooting-562615/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the sheriff, Boyce's brother was also present in the truck, but he fled when the gunman attacked. Lance added that Boyce's brother was chased by Crum into a wooded area, where he escaped unharmed.

An “active shooter” lockdown was imposed on the elementary school in the nearby town of Coldwater when the man was being chased by law enforcement officials.

The mass shooting in Mississippi on Friday comes days after three people were killed in an attack by a gunman on a university campus in Michigan, the northern state of the US.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A gunman went on a shooting rampage, killing six people, including his stepfather and ex-wife on Friday at multiple locations in northern Mississippi, said the sheriff, as investigators looked for clues to find out the motive behind the attack.

A gunman went on a shooting rampage, killing six people, including his stepfather and ex-wife on Friday at multiple locations in northern Mississippi, said the sheriff, as investigators looked for clues to find out the motive behind the attack. Richard Dale Crum, aged 52, was armed with a shotgun and two handguns, when he opened fire at about 11 am, killing a man who was sitting on a pickup truck's driver's seat parked outside a convenience store in Arkabutla, said Tate County Sheriff Brad Lance. Local law enforcement officials, as cited by CBS-affiliate WREG, stated that the man then reached another home, which was reported as his own residence, where he shot dead two more people. The deputies were investigating the initial crime scene when they received a second call informing them about another shooting that took place a few miles away. ALSO READ | Three dead in shooting at Michigan State University, suspect found dead When the authorities reached home, they found a dead woman who was as identified as Crum's ex-wife by the sheriff and her current husband was found injured. Crum was caught by the deputies outside his own house, where he was arrested, Lance said. The authorities also discovered two handymen killed by gunfire, one was found in an SUV and the other was lying dead on the road. The bodies of Crum's stepfather and the sister of his stepfather were also discovered in the neighbouring home. "Everybody has crime, and from time to time we have violent crime, but certainly nothing of this magnitude. Without being able to say what triggered this, that's the scary part,” Lance said. Crum was jailed on the charge of capital murder without a bond and Lance added that an investigation is underway to bring additional charges. The man has also been slapped with the charge of killing Chris Eugene Boyce, 59, who was sitting in the truck outside the store. WATCH | WION Speed News: Buffalo mass shooter sentenced to life; 1 killed, 3 wounded in Texas mall shooting According to the sheriff, Boyce's brother was also present in the truck, but he fled when the gunman attacked. Lance added that Boyce's brother was chased by Crum into a wooded area, where he escaped unharmed. An “active shooter” lockdown was imposed on the elementary school in the nearby town of Coldwater when the man was being chased by law enforcement officials. The mass shooting in Mississippi on Friday comes days after three people were killed in an attack by a gunman on a university campus in Michigan, the northern state of the US. (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

Mississippi mass shooting: Gunman kills 6, including ex-wife, stepfather

A slaughterhouse cleaning firm in the United States illegally employed over 100 children at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states where they used caustic chemicals to clean razor-sharp saws, and other high-risk equipment, the US Department of Labour said on Friday (February 17). Packers Sanitation Services Inc. has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties for violating rules. A total of 102 minors – between the age of 13 and 17 years – were employed by the firm in hazardous occupations. They also worked in overnight shifts. At least three minors suffered injuries at work, federal investigators said.

"One of the nation’s largest food safety sanitation services providers has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties after the US Department of Labour’s Wage and Hour Division found the company employed at least 102 children – from 13 to 17 years of age – in hazardous occupations and had them working overnight shifts at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states," read an official statement by the government department. The firm provides cleaning services under contract to some of the largest meat and poultry producers in the US. The federal investigation was carried out between August and December last year.&nbsp;

Solicitor of Labour Seema Nanda, responding to the probe, said: “The Department of Labour made it absolutely clear that violations of child labour laws will not be tolerated. No child should ever be subject to the conditions found in this investigation. The courts have upheld the department’s rightful authority to execute federal court-approved search warrants and compelled this employer to change their hiring practices to ensure compliance with the law."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/korean-auto-giant-hyundai-investigating-child-labour-in-its-us-supply-chain-527021">Korean auto giant Hyundai investigating child labour violations in its US supply chain</a>

"Let this case be a powerful reminder that all workers in the United States are entitled to the protections of the Fair Labour Standards Act and that an employer who violates wage laws will be held accountable," she further added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

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>.

A slaughterhouse cleaning firm in the United States illegally employed over 100 children at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states where they used caustic chemicals to clean razor-sharp saws, and other high-risk equipment, the US Department of Labour said on Friday (February 17).

A slaughterhouse cleaning firm in the United States illegally employed over 100 children at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states where they used caustic chemicals to clean razor-sharp saws, and other high-risk equipment, the US Department of Labour said on Friday (February 17). Packers Sanitation Services Inc. has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties for violating rules. A total of 102 minors – between the age of 13 and 17 years – were employed by the firm in hazardous occupations. They also worked in overnight shifts. At least three minors suffered injuries at work, federal investigators said. "One of the nation’s largest food safety sanitation services providers has paid $1.5 million in civil money penalties after the US Department of Labour’s Wage and Hour Division found the company employed at least 102 children – from 13 to 17 years of age – in hazardous occupations and had them working overnight shifts at 13 meat processing facilities in eight states," read an official statement by the government department. The firm provides cleaning services under contract to some of the largest meat and poultry producers in the US. The federal investigation was carried out between August and December last year. Solicitor of Labour Seema Nanda, responding to the probe, said: “The Department of Labour made it absolutely clear that violations of child labour laws will not be tolerated. No child should ever be subject to the conditions found in this investigation. The courts have upheld the department’s rightful authority to execute federal court-approved search warrants and compelled this employer to change their hiring practices to ensure compliance with the law." Also read: Korean auto giant Hyundai investigating child labour violations in its US supply chain "Let this case be a powerful reminder that all workers in the United States are entitled to the protections of the Fair Labour Standards Act and that an employer who violates wage laws will be held accountable," she further added. 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.

Over 100 minors illegally employed in hazardous conditions, US firm fined $1.5 million

United States President Joe Biden, late Saturday (February 11) hosted both Republican and Democratic governors for a black-tie event at the White House, during which he appealed to them to work across political divides for improving American lives and rebuilding the economy following the COVID-19 pandemic and the disruptions caused by it. The dinner at the White House was attended by the members of the National Governors Association for the first time during the Biden administration.&nbsp;

“We’re the United States of America. We can get big things done if we do it together,” said the US President while addressing Vice President Kamala Harris, 31 governors which also included both associations’ leaders, Republican Governor, Spencer Cox of Utah and Democratic Governor, Phil Murphy of New Jersey at the State Dining Room. Biden referred to some of the recent laws around investing in infrastructure and domestic manufacture of semiconductors by both parties as evidence of “some bipartisan progress”.&nbsp;

“I think when we work together it works,”&nbsp;said Biden, adding that he’d work on being “a little bit less partisan” and also praised the work done by the governors. He also spoke about how while Republicans and Democrats may not always agree, but when they work together it has made a difference. Notably, Republican Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida did not attend the event.

The dinner for the governors is typically hosted at the White House but was held last year at&nbsp;Mount Vernon, George Washington’s Virginia estate and virtually in 2021 due to COVID-19 making this the first one of the Biden administration. “It’s symbolic to have Republicans and Democrats breaking bread together,”&nbsp;said Utah governor Cox. He added, “This is what is missing in our country. It's hard to hate up close.”&nbsp;

The Republican vice-chair of the National Governors Association also spoke about how even Americans want to see more collaboration across the political aisle. He also thanked the US President and First Lady, Jill Biden before introducing his Democratic counterpart Murphy.&nbsp;

Country-western singer Brad Paisley also performed at the event and played his song “American Saturday Night”. After the dinner, Paisley told the crowd that he swapped out the second line which mentions Russia because “I don't do that anymore,” reported Reuters.

Additionally, Biden, who does not drink alcohol, gave a toast with his left hand, something that was told to him by his grandfather, he explained, when you don’t have alcohol in the glass. Similarly, Cox, who also does not drink, followed suit, telling the room it was ginger ale, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

United States President Joe Biden, late Saturday (February 11) hosted both Republican and Democratic governors for a black-tie event at the White House, during which he appealed to them to work across political divides for improving American lives and rebuilding the economy following the COVID-19 pandemic and the disruptions caused by it.

United States President Joe Biden, late Saturday (February 11) hosted both Republican and Democratic governors for a black-tie event at the White House, during which he appealed to them to work across political divides for improving American lives and rebuilding the economy following the COVID-19 pandemic and the disruptions caused by it. The dinner at the White House was attended by the members of the National Governors Association for the first time during the Biden administration. “We’re the United States of America. We can get big things done if we do it together,” said the US President while addressing Vice President Kamala Harris, 31 governors which also included both associations’ leaders, Republican Governor, Spencer Cox of Utah and Democratic Governor, Phil Murphy of New Jersey at the State Dining Room. Biden referred to some of the recent laws around investing in infrastructure and domestic manufacture of semiconductors by both parties as evidence of “some bipartisan progress”. “I think when we work together it works,” said Biden, adding that he’d work on being “a little bit less partisan” and also praised the work done by the governors. He also spoke about how while Republicans and Democrats may not always agree, but when they work together it has made a difference. Notably, Republican Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida did not attend the event. The dinner for the governors is typically hosted at the White House but was held last year at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s Virginia estate and virtually in 2021 due to COVID-19 making this the first one of the Biden administration. “It’s symbolic to have Republicans and Democrats breaking bread together,” said Utah governor Cox. He added, “This is what is missing in our country. It's hard to hate up close.” The Republican vice-chair of the National Governors Association also spoke about how even Americans want to see more collaboration across the political aisle. He also thanked the US President and First Lady, Jill Biden before introducing his Democratic counterpart Murphy. Country-western singer Brad Paisley also performed at the event and played his song “American Saturday Night”. After the dinner, Paisley told the crowd that he swapped out the second line which mentions Russia because “I don't do that anymore,” reported Reuters. Additionally, Biden, who does not drink alcohol, gave a toast with his left hand, something that was told to him by his grandfather, he explained, when you don’t have alcohol in the glass. Similarly, Cox, who also does not drink, followed suit, telling the room it was ginger ale, reported the Associated Press. (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 President Biden hosts Democrats, Republican governors at White House lauds ‘bipartisan progress’

The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-is-civilian-airship-used-for-research-558615">in the United States</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-is-civilian-airship-used-for-research-558615">skies</a>. According to a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon." &nbsp;

However, spokesperson Ryder did not specify the balloon's exact location in Latin America, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Pentagon said it was tracking a Chinese spy balloon flying high over the US. A senior defence official told reporters the balloon was for surveillance. The official added that at the request of President Joe Biden, officials considered shooting the balloon down but concluded doing so would endanger too many people on the ground.&nbsp;

Initially, the Chinese government did not identify the balloon's origins but later admitted the civilian craft was blown off course.&nbsp;

"The airship is from China and is civilian in nature, used for meteorological and other scientific research. Due to the influence of westerly winds and its limited control capability, the airship deviated from its intended course," the foreign ministry of China&nbsp;said in a statement late Friday.&nbsp;

"China regrets that the airship strayed into the United States by mistake due to force majeure. China will continue to maintain communication with the US side to properly handle this accident," it added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinkens-trip-to-beijing-postponed-over-alleged-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-558653">Antony Blinken’s trip to Beijing ‘postponed’ over alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace</a>

Meanwhile, US State Secretary Antony Blinken postponed his upcoming trip to China as he did not want the balloon issue to dominate his meetings with Chinese officials.&nbsp;

Addressing a joint press conference with South Korean foreign minister Park Jin on Friday, Blinken said that China's decision to fly a balloon over the US was both unacceptable and irresponsible.&nbsp;

"It's a violation of our sovereignty, it's a violation of international law, and it was very important that we, of course, take the actions we did to protect any sensitive information, to protect our people and to make clear to China that, again, this is an unacceptable as well as an irresponsible action," Blinken said, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"What this has done is created the conditions that undermine the purpose of the trip, including ongoing efforts to build a floor under the relationship and to address a broad range of issues that are of concern to the American people, I believe to the Chinese people, and certainly as well to people around the world. So, we took the step that I announced earlier today in postponing the planned visit for this weekend," he added.&nbsp;

China hits out at American media, politicians over balloon incident

The Chinese government said on Saturday that&nbsp;US media and politicians had taken advantage of US allegations that&nbsp;China flew a spy balloon over American skies. Releasing a statement, the foreign ministry said, "China... never violated the territory and airspace of any sovereign country.&nbsp;Some politicians and media in the United States used the (balloon) incident as a pretext to attack and&nbsp;smear&nbsp;China."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen in the United States skies.

The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen in the United States skies. According to a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon." However, spokesperson Ryder did not specify the balloon's exact location in Latin America, news agency AFP reported. On Thursday, the Pentagon said it was tracking a Chinese spy balloon flying high over the US. A senior defence official told reporters the balloon was for surveillance. The official added that at the request of President Joe Biden, officials considered shooting the balloon down but concluded doing so would endanger too many people on the ground. Initially, the Chinese government did not identify the balloon's origins but later admitted the civilian craft was blown off course. "The airship is from China and is civilian in nature, used for meteorological and other scientific research. Due to the influence of westerly winds and its limited control capability, the airship deviated from its intended course," the foreign ministry of China said in a statement late Friday. "China regrets that the airship strayed into the United States by mistake due to force majeure. China will continue to maintain communication with the US side to properly handle this accident," it added. ALSO READ | Antony Blinken’s trip to Beijing ‘postponed’ over alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace Meanwhile, US State Secretary Antony Blinken postponed his upcoming trip to China as he did not want the balloon issue to dominate his meetings with Chinese officials. Addressing a joint press conference with South Korean foreign minister Park Jin on Friday, Blinken said that China's decision to fly a balloon over the US was both unacceptable and irresponsible. "It's a violation of our sovereignty, it's a violation of international law, and it was very important that we, of course, take the actions we did to protect any sensitive information, to protect our people and to make clear to China that, again, this is an unacceptable as well as an irresponsible action," Blinken said, news agency Reuters reported. "What this has done is created the conditions that undermine the purpose of the trip, including ongoing efforts to build a floor under the relationship and to address a broad range of issues that are of concern to the American people, I believe to the Chinese people, and certainly as well to people around the world. So, we took the step that I announced earlier today in postponing the planned visit for this weekend," he added. China hits out at American media, politicians over balloon incident The Chinese government said on Saturday that US media and politicians had taken advantage of US allegations that China flew a spy balloon over American skies. Releasing a statement, the foreign ministry said, "China... never violated the territory and airspace of any sovereign country. Some politicians and media in the United States used the (balloon) incident as a pretext to attack and smear China." (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.

After US, another Chinese balloon seen flying over Latin America: Pentagon

A failed Republican candidate has been arrested in connection with a series of drive-by shootings; targeting the homes of Democratic lawmakers. Authorities say that GOP candidate Solomon Pena who contested from South Valley in New Mexico was angry over his defeat in the elections last November.

United States: Ex-GOP candidate arrested for shootings at lawmakers' homes

Allen Weisselberg, a former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization was sentenced Tuesday to five months in prison by a Manhattan court after pleading guilty to multiple tax crimes concerning the former president's real estate company.

Trump's longtime CFO Allen Weisselberg sentenced on charges of fraud, tax invasion

In a bid to protect satellites that are crucial in military surveillance operations, the United States of America is finalizing plans to extend its security umbrella for Japan into space.

U.S. poised to extend Japan security umbrella into space

Chinese fighter jet came dangerously to U.S. Airforce plane over the disputed South China Sea. This close encounter happened last week, according to the U.S. military.

China, U.S. military jets in close encounter over the disputed South China sea

The U.S. representative-elect George Santos, who earlier lied about his heritage, education and professional pedigree, has now been accused of lying about his mother's demise. Santos says the 9/11 attack claimed his mother's life.

New York Republican George Santos accused of lying again

The man who allegedly broke into the U.S. House speaker Nancy Pelosi's home and attacked her husband Paul Pelosi has pleaded not guilty to 6 charges including an attempt to murder. Accused DePape allegedly broke into Nancy Pelosi's home in October.

US: Suspect in Paul Pelosi attack pleads not guilty to state charges

Australia has now approved the extradition request of a former U.S. Marine who was accused of training Chinese military pilots. Daniel Duggan, a former U.S. marine corpspilot is facing charges of money laundering and breaking U.S. arms control laws.

Australia approves extradition request of former U.S. marine

us-news

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

us news