Xtreme heat have become another form of death sentence in Texas jails. An advocacy organization is suing the US State of Texas to mandate air conditioning for tens of thousands of inmates...

Advocacy Group Sues US State Of Texas

The US CIA has continued its apparently successful recruitment of Russian spies by launching a fresh push to find informants in China, Iran, and North Korea. The top US spying agency released instructions in Mandarin, Farsi and Korean on its accounts on X, Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, LinkedIn and the Dark Web on how to contact it securely, a CIA spokeswoman said in a statement

Cia Takes To Social Media To Recruit Informants

Tens of thousands of dockworkers have launched an indefinite strike at key US ports, risking major trade and economic disruption just ahead of the presidential election and the holiday shopping season. Members of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) walked out on Tuesday at 14 major ports along the East and Gulf Coasts, from Maine to Texas, halting container traffic. This marks the first large-scale shutdown in nearly 50 years.

USA Dockworkers Strike Shuts Down Ports, Threatening Major Trade Disruption

Israeli soldiers have extended their attack against Hezbollah and deepened their confrontation with organizations associated with Iran by launching a military invasion into southern Lebanon. This momentous action comes after a slew of fierce Israeli attacks on Hezbollah, one of which is said to have killed the organization's longtime leader, Hassan Nasrallah.

Israel Hezbollah War: IDF Launches Aerial Assaults On Hezbollah Targets in Southern Beirut

EAM S Jaishankar is on his first visit to the US since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed power for the third time at the Centre. During their meeting in Washington, DC, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US and India are collaborating to address regional and global issues with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

India's EAM Jaishankar Meets US Secretary Of State Blinken | Speaks on Indo-China Conflict

S Jaishankar is on his first visit to the US since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed power for the third time at the Centre. During their meeting in Washington, DC, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US and India are collaborating to address regional and global issues with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Indian EAM Jaishankar Meets US Secretary of State Blinken | Speaks on China Border Disputes

U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast dockworkers began their first large-scale strike in nearly 50 years on Tuesday, halting the flow of about half the country's ocean shipping, after negotiations for a new labor contract broke down over wages.

US dockworkers strike, halting half the nation's ocean shipping

A Russian fighter jet narrowly avoided colliding with a U.S. military aircraft during an intercept off the coast of Alaska on September 23. The incident occurred during a routine intercept of Russian long-range bombers probing Alaska’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ), a non-sovereign airspace monitored by military forces.

Russian Fighter Jet Nearly Collides With USA's Aircraft In Alaska

<p>The United States has pledged its support to Israel after the latter launched "limited, localised, and targeted ground raids" against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Oct 1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Secretary of Defense Llyod Austin spoke to his Israeli counterpart, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and discussed the ongoing security developments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I made it clear that the United States supports Israel’s right to defend itself. We agreed on the necessity of dismantling attack infrastructure along the border to ensure that Lebanese Hezbollah cannot conduct October 7-style attacks on Israel’s northern communities," said Austin in a post on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-ground-operation-in-lebanon-against-hezbollah-top-10-points-763338"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel launches ground operation in Lebanon against Hezbollah | Top 10 points</strong></a></p>

<p>Austin warned Iran that if it attempted to launch a military attack on Israel during the ground operations, there would be 'serious consequences'.</p>

<p>"I reiterated the serious consequences for Iran in the event Iran chooses to launch a direct military attack against Israel," Austin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The United States is well-postured to defend US personnel, partners, and allies in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations and determined to prevent any actor from exploiting tensions or expanding the conflict."</p>

<p>The Pentagon earlier said it had put an unspecified number of American troops on prepare-to-deploy orders as Israel prepared to engage on the ground in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss security developments and Israeli operations. I made it clear that the United States supports Israel’s right to defend itself. We agreed on the necessity of dismantling attack infrastructure along the border…</p>
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1840937713580507481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch | Israeli PM's Video-Message Directed At The People Of Iran</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel launches ground raid&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday announced that its troops had started the ground raid against Hezbollah in Lebanon, days after the militant outfit's chief, Hassan Nasrallah was assassinated in an airstrike.</p>

<p>IDF said the Hezbollah targets were located in villages close to the border and posed an immediate threat to Israeli communities in northern Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The IDF is operating according to a methodical plan set out by the General Staff and the Northern Command which IDF soldiers have trained and prepared for in recent months," the military said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Iran-backed Hezbollah has been dealt a hammer blow in recent days by Israel with experts viewing the ground raids as the final step in Tel Aviv's plan of total demolition of the militant outfit.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has pledged its support to Israel after the latter launched "limited, localised, and targeted ground raids" against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Oct 1).

The United States has pledged its support to Israel after the latter launched "limited, localised, and targeted ground raids" against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon on Tuesday (Oct 1). US Secretary of Defense Llyod Austin spoke to his Israeli counterpart, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and discussed the ongoing security developments. "I made it clear that the United States supports Israel’s right to defend itself. We agreed on the necessity of dismantling attack infrastructure along the border to ensure that Lebanese Hezbollah cannot conduct October 7-style attacks on Israel’s northern communities," said Austin in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Also read | Israel launches ground operation in Lebanon against Hezbollah | Top 10 points Austin warned Iran that if it attempted to launch a military attack on Israel during the ground operations, there would be 'serious consequences'. "I reiterated the serious consequences for Iran in the event Iran chooses to launch a direct military attack against Israel," Austin said. "The United States is well-postured to defend US personnel, partners, and allies in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations and determined to prevent any actor from exploiting tensions or expanding the conflict." The Pentagon earlier said it had put an unspecified number of American troops on prepare-to-deploy orders as Israel prepared to engage on the ground in southern Lebanon. I spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss security developments and Israeli operations. I made it clear that the United States supports Israel’s right to defend itself. We agreed on the necessity of dismantling attack infrastructure along the border… — Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) October 1, 2024 × Watch | Israeli PM's Video-Message Directed At The People Of Iran × Israel launches ground raid The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday announced that its troops had started the ground raid against Hezbollah in Lebanon, days after the militant outfit's chief, Hassan Nasrallah was assassinated in an airstrike. IDF said the Hezbollah targets were located in villages close to the border and posed an immediate threat to Israeli communities in northern Israel. "The IDF is operating according to a methodical plan set out by the General Staff and the Northern Command which IDF soldiers have trained and prepared for in recent months," the military said in a statement. The Iran-backed Hezbollah has been dealt a hammer blow in recent days by Israel with experts viewing the ground raids as the final step in Tel Aviv's plan of total demolition of the militant outfit. (With inputs from agencies)

US supports Israel's ground operation in Lebanon, warns Iran not to intervene

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<p>Three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday (oct 1), causing no casualties, two security sources told AFP.</p>

<p>"The Victory Base at&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;Airport was targeted with three rockets, two of which were shot down by the base's special defences, while the third fell near the headquarters of the Counter Terrorism Service Command," a security source said.</p>

<p>A second security source confirmed the report, noting that there were no casualties and that the rockets did not affect air traffic.</p>

<p>The attack comes as the war in Gaza and Israeli strikes and ground raids in Lebanon threaten to spill over into a regional conflict.</p>

<p>Since the outbreak of war in Gaza on October 7, militant factions have targeted bases in Iraq and Syria housing US troops over Washington's military support for Israel.</p>

<p>Washington has repeatedly responded with airstrikes on faction headquarters in both countries.</p>

<p>The United States has about 2,500 troops in Iraq and about 900 in neighbouring Syria as part of the coalition it established in 2014 to fight the Islamic State group. The coalition also includes forces from other countries, including Britain and France.</p>

<p>Armed Iraqi factions loyal to Iran demanded the withdrawal of those troops.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-calls-in-iraq-to-safeguard-its-troops-amid-new-attacks-715508"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US calls in Iraq to safeguard its troops amid new attacks</strong></a></p>

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<p>Washington and&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;announced Friday that the international coalition would end its decade-long military mission in Iraq within a year.</p>

<p>But the joint statement and US officials did not say how many US troops would remain in Iraq.</p>

<p>After a decline in militant attacks in recent months, rockets were fired in August at the Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq, injuring seven Americans.</p>

<p>And in September, Washington said the US diplomatic complex in&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;was attacked by Iran-aligned militias operating in Iraq.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at Baghdad International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday (oct 1), causing no casualties, two security sources told AFP.

Three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at Baghdad International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday (oct 1), causing no casualties, two security sources told AFP. "The Victory Base at Baghdad Airport was targeted with three rockets, two of which were shot down by the base's special defences, while the third fell near the headquarters of the Counter Terrorism Service Command," a security source said. A second security source confirmed the report, noting that there were no casualties and that the rockets did not affect air traffic. The attack comes as the war in Gaza and Israeli strikes and ground raids in Lebanon threaten to spill over into a regional conflict. Since the outbreak of war in Gaza on October 7, militant factions have targeted bases in Iraq and Syria housing US troops over Washington's military support for Israel. Washington has repeatedly responded with airstrikes on faction headquarters in both countries. The United States has about 2,500 troops in Iraq and about 900 in neighbouring Syria as part of the coalition it established in 2014 to fight the Islamic State group. The coalition also includes forces from other countries, including Britain and France. Armed Iraqi factions loyal to Iran demanded the withdrawal of those troops. Watch | US calls in Iraq to safeguard its troops amid new attacks × Washington and Baghdad announced Friday that the international coalition would end its decade-long military mission in Iraq within a year. But the joint statement and US officials did not say how many US troops would remain in Iraq. After a decline in militant attacks in recent months, rockets were fired in August at the Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq, injuring seven Americans. And in September, Washington said the US diplomatic complex in Baghdad was attacked by Iran-aligned militias operating in Iraq. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rockets fired at US military base in Baghdad amid Israeli ground raids in Lebanon

A British scientist working in the United States (US) said that he faced death threats and harassment due to his work with Chinese scientists on virus research before the Covid pandemic broke out in 2020. According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on Sunday (Sept 29), the scientist was identified as Peter Daszak.

USA: Why Is A US Researcher On A 'Kill' List? COVID-19 Research Linked? | WION

Drone footage from north Carolina shows large-scale destruction caused by hurricane Helene. Thirty people have died in north Carolina With some of the worst rains brought by Helene causing havoc in the state.

Hurricane Helene: Hurricane Kills At Least 90 In U.S.A, 3Mn Without Power | WION Climate Tracker

<p>A US couple from the state of Arkansas&nbsp;has been charged after they attempted to sell their baby boy for $1,000 and cans of beer, according to the filed court documents. The parents, identified as&nbsp;Darien Urban (21) and Shalene Ehlers (20), signed a letter granting custody of their kid and handed him off to another person.</p>

<p>Both Urban and Ehlers were arrested by the Benton County Sheriff's Office earlier this month. They are facing felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to negotiate the&nbsp;relinquishment of a minor for adoption.</p>

<p>Detective Wes Grube, who is leading the investigation, said the couple self-wrote the twisted contract letter with a&nbsp;“no changing ya’lls mind" clause.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I, Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers, are signing our rights over to [Cody Martin] of our baby for $1,000 on 9/21/24," read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“After signing this there will be no changing y’all two’s minds and to never contact again," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the arrest took place after the Hide Away Campground manager contacted law enforcement agencies to report that the couple was attempting to sell their baby to a resident onsite, identified as Ricky Crawford.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/child-marriage-americas-secret-problem-716808"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Child Marriage: America's secret problem</strong></a></p>

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<p>Court documents state that&nbsp;Crawford had earlier visited Urban and Ehlers and offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crawford, heavily intoxicated and slurred in his speech, later told the cops that he took the baby from the duo, then gave him to Martin, who was staying in a camper onsite as he was “concerned about the welfare” of the child.</p>

<p>Urban and Ehlers approached Martin afterwards and offered to sell the baby for $1,000. Martin said although an agreement was drafted, no money was exchanged at the time.&nbsp;He stated that he would arrange for a cashier’s check for $1,000.</p>

<p>According to an&nbsp;affidavit cited by WREG News Channel 3, another witness named&nbsp;Felicia Ayers, noted a strong ammonia and fecal odour coming from the baby, who had a dirty diaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After changing the baby, she observed severe diaper rash, blisters and swelling, and documented the injuries with photographs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/widow-gives-birth-to-miracle-baby-nine-months-after-tragic-death-of-husband-760921"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Widow gives birth to 'miracle' baby nine months after husband’s tragic death on honeymoon</strong></a></p>

<p>This wasn't the couple's first rodeo with the law. Urban has a rap sheet which includes&nbsp;two counts of felony theft received&nbsp;in Bentonville in 2024 and a misdemeanour domestic battery charge in Rogers in 2023.</p>

<p>Urban was still serving his three-year probation at the time of being detained. Meanwhile, Ehlers was arrested for misdemeanour shoplifting in Fayetteville in 2024.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A US couple from the state of Arkansas has been charged after they attempted to sell their baby boy for $1,000 and cans of beer, according to the filed court documents.

A US couple from the state of Arkansas has been charged after they attempted to sell their baby boy for $1,000 and cans of beer, according to the filed court documents. The parents, identified as Darien Urban (21) and Shalene Ehlers (20), signed a letter granting custody of their kid and handed him off to another person. Both Urban and Ehlers were arrested by the Benton County Sheriff's Office earlier this month. They are facing felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to negotiate the relinquishment of a minor for adoption. Detective Wes Grube, who is leading the investigation, said the couple self-wrote the twisted contract letter with a “no changing ya’lls mind" clause. “I, Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers, are signing our rights over to [Cody Martin] of our baby for $1,000 on 9/21/24," read the letter. “After signing this there will be no changing y’all two’s minds and to never contact again," it added. Notably, the arrest took place after the Hide Away Campground manager contacted law enforcement agencies to report that the couple was attempting to sell their baby to a resident onsite, identified as Ricky Crawford. Watch | Child Marriage: America's secret problem × Court documents state that Crawford had earlier visited Urban and Ehlers and offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer. Crawford, heavily intoxicated and slurred in his speech, later told the cops that he took the baby from the duo, then gave him to Martin, who was staying in a camper onsite as he was “concerned about the welfare” of the child. Urban and Ehlers approached Martin afterwards and offered to sell the baby for $1,000. Martin said although an agreement was drafted, no money was exchanged at the time. He stated that he would arrange for a cashier’s check for $1,000. According to an affidavit cited by WREG News Channel 3, another witness named Felicia Ayers, noted a strong ammonia and fecal odour coming from the baby, who had a dirty diaper. After changing the baby, she observed severe diaper rash, blisters and swelling, and documented the injuries with photographs. Also read | Widow gives birth to 'miracle' baby nine months after husband’s tragic death on honeymoon This wasn't the couple's first rodeo with the law. Urban has a rap sheet which includes two counts of felony theft received in Bentonville in 2024 and a misdemeanour domestic battery charge in Rogers in 2023. Urban was still serving his three-year probation at the time of being detained. Meanwhile, Ehlers was arrested for misdemeanour shoplifting in Fayetteville in 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

US couple arrested for allegedly selling their baby for cans of beer and $1,000

Donald Trump is set to hold a rally in Pennsylvania at the historic site of the first assassination attempt on a U.S. president. The location, known for its ties to political history, adds symbolic weight to the event as Trump continues his campaign for the Republican nomination. The rally will focus on energizing his base in the battleground state, addressing key issues such as the economy, immigration, and his criticism of the current administration. The choice of venue underscores Trump's flair for historical significance as part of his campaign strategy.

USA Elections: Donald Trump To Hold Rally At Historic Pennsylvania Site

Hurricane Helene strengthened into a Category 2 storm on Thursday morning, hours before the unusually large and rapidly intensifying storm was forecast to make landfall in Florida's Big Bend as a monster Category 4 storm.

Hurricane Helene Packs Major Storm Surge, High Winds, Flooding Rain

An increasing number of US businesses are postponing major investments until the outcome of the upcoming presidential election is clear. According to the latest CFO Survey from the Federal Reserve Banks of Atlanta and Richmond, along with Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, 30% of firms have either delayed, scaled down, or canceled investment plans due to election uncertainty, up from 28% last quarter.

US Election Uncertainty Leaves Many Firms In Limbo, Delays Business Investments

An increasingly powerful hurricane threatening, catastrophic, dangerous storm is surging and flooding is forecast to smash into Florida's gulf coast. Thousands of residents have evacuated towns along the US State's shoreline.

Florida Braces for Hurricane Helene, Threatening Deadly Winds and Storm Surge

Washington state has established the country’s first-ever stockpile of abortion drugs, which Governor Jay Inslee described as a protective measure against potential future lawsuits aiming to ban the procedure nationwide. Inslee also noted the stockpile serves as insurance against the possibility of Republican Donald Trump winning a second presidential term, which could further threaten abortion rights in the U.S.

Washington Creates First-In-Nation Stockpile Of Abortion Drugs

The United States has announced that Qatari citizens will be able to travel to the U.S. without a visa beginning in December. This significant policy change aims to strengthen bilateral relations and promote greater tourism and business exchanges between the two nations. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including trade and security. Qatari citizens will benefit from easier access to the U.S., facilitating family visits, educational opportunities, and cultural exchanges, further solidifying the relationship between the two countries.

U.S. Announces Visa-Free Travel For Qatari Citizens Starting In December

A U.S. Army report has revealed the deployment of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), raising concerns over Beijing’s strategic intentions. The report suggests that China may be playing a double game, engaging in diplomacy while simultaneously increasing military presence near the disputed India-China border. This development has heightened tensions in the region, with the U.S. calling attention to China's aggressive posturing amidst ongoing border disputes.

U.S. Army Highlights PLA Deployment at LAC, Exposes China's Strategic Maneuvering

The Biden administration has put forward a proposal to ban Chinese-made vehicle technology in the United States, citing national security concerns. The move targets Chinese components and software used in electric and autonomous vehicles, aiming to protect critical infrastructure from potential cyber threats. If implemented, the ban could significantly impact U.S.-China trade relations and the global automotive industry, while encouraging domestic production and development of secure vehicle technologies.

Biden Administration Proposes Ban On Chinese Vehicle Technology In The U.S.

<p>The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025. It was also an occasion to understand how India is playing a bigger role integrated into the Quad.</p>

<p>PM Modi is the seniormost leader among the Quad. It was gracious of India to have allowed the US to host the 2024 Summit, which was allotted to India. Now, New Delhi will host the 2025 Summit. It would be a readymade program for the new US president to visit India in their first year. Quad provides India more opportunities to meet with strategic partners annually. The Quad summit is a useful aggregation for India when, for instance, it attends the BRICS summit or holds the annual summit with Russia.</p>

<p>Politically, there are three important takeaways for India from this Quad Summit. First, the US has come around to recognizing that the UN and its security council need reform beyond what the US thought necessary. The Declaration talks about broad-based representation in the UN Security Council and the US is now more ready to support India and Japan.</p>

<p>Secondly, the Quad counter-terrorism working group met for the first time last year and will meet annually. Mitigating terrorism through information sharing, use of unmanned systems and finding new lines of collaboration are all good news for India, which has for long sought the US and its allies to take terrorism threats more seriously.</p>

<p>The third aspect is that without militarising the Quad, India has yet joined in efforts to have common understanding on maritime security. Working through a host of initiatives, Quad is expanding cooperation in maritime domain awareness, collaboration among coastguards, and increasing efforts for quicker and more effective HADR. India is now a clear partner of such Quad initiatives, and not just a recipient of support.</p>

<p>The Quad has positioned itself as a challenge to the Chinese view of the region. It engages ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the IORA for better and sustainable development. Thus, the Quad supports the free and open Indo-Pacific and check China's aggressive manoeuvres, which is India's aim as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/quad-summit-modi-attends-quad-leaders-summit-in-delaware-760818"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware</strong></a></p>

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<p>There are areas in which India is now directly contributing, and these need to be highlighted. The Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) has performed well in raising awareness. Information is now collected and shared with greater frequency among the 24 countries who are currently benefiting. The Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean region in Gurugram, India is an indispensable part, particularly in dealing with countries of the IORA, in which India’s leadership is recognised. India will chair IORA in 2025.</p>

<p>India's view of the Indo-Pacific as including the Indian Ocean up to the shores of Africa is now better accepted. The US will work through its Central Command and AFRICOM, with Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in Africa. A new maritime initiative for training in the Indo-Pacific ‘MAITRI’ will bring capacity-building efforts into the IPMDA. India will contribute trainings under ITEC program to countries in IOR.</p>

<p>The health sector brought vaccine diplomacy and a Quad Health Partnership. India has been at the fulcrum of the vaccine manufacturing. Further efforts to create vaccines for mpox and future pandemics would utilize Indian capabilities. India is contributing to the Cancer Moonshot dealing with cervical cancer. The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support 40 million HPV vaccine doses. India will provide HPV sampling kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the region. Through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will offer technical assistance to interested countries for the adoption of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening.</p>

<p>Infrastructure is an area where the Quad lags China. Various initiatives among India-Japan- US, the Japan-US- Australia or the G7 have not borne much fruit. China's BRI remains the dominant theme for infrastructure development in the<br />
region. Now the Quad is taking shorter steps towards quality infrastructure and three elements with Indian participation are visible.</p>

<p>Cable connectivity through a resilient partnership tasks Quad countries to provide maritime cable networks away from Chinese control. India has commissioned a feasibility study to determine how maritime cable networks can be facilitated by aggregating maintenance and repair capacities of the Quad partners in the Indo-Pacific. This will prevent vulnerabilities hitting the proposed networks and provide them with durability and reliability.</p>

<p>A Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to develop port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This will challenge Chinese domination of new ports in ASEAN countries, in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and in Africa, but would require considerable effort and investment. India will start this with a Quad regional ports and transportation conference in Mumbai in 2025. This would seek commonalities, resources and include the private sector to build effective port infrastructure ahead. The launch of a Quad Indo Pacific logistics network pilot project will support the ports initiative, as well as the HADR efforts.</p>

<p>The Quad infrastructure fellowships have started well and now cover 2200 experts. They will now work more closely with the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, particularly to enhance power sector resilience.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-biden-from-setting-up-of-semiconductor-plant-to-shoring-up-drone-deal-heres-what-happened-760875"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened</strong></a></p>

<p>The Quad is focusing more on critical and emerging technologies and India's interest in this is stoked by the emphasis on semiconductors, where complementarities are leveraged to create competition and add resilience to Quad's semiconductor supply chain.</p>

<p>To support climate and clean energy, India committed to invest $ 2 million in new solar projects in the island countries of Fiji in the South Pacific, and Comoros, Madagascar and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The US has provided a $250 million DFC loan to Tata Power Solar to create a solar cell manufacturing facility. A similar loan of $500 billion, to First Solar to build a 3.3 GW solar module manufacturing facility in India is also mentioned in the Wilmington Declaration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian capabilities are now much better leveraged and integrated into the growing Quad functional collaboration matrix. As a developing country, India uses its development cooperation experience to advance Quad as a Global Force for Good.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></em></p>


The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025.

The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025. It was also an occasion to understand how India is playing a bigger role integrated into the Quad. PM Modi is the seniormost leader among the Quad. It was gracious of India to have allowed the US to host the 2024 Summit, which was allotted to India. Now, New Delhi will host the 2025 Summit. It would be a readymade program for the new US president to visit India in their first year. Quad provides India more opportunities to meet with strategic partners annually. The Quad summit is a useful aggregation for India when, for instance, it attends the BRICS summit or holds the annual summit with Russia. Politically, there are three important takeaways for India from this Quad Summit. First, the US has come around to recognizing that the UN and its security council need reform beyond what the US thought necessary. The Declaration talks about broad-based representation in the UN Security Council and the US is now more ready to support India and Japan. Secondly, the Quad counter-terrorism working group met for the first time last year and will meet annually. Mitigating terrorism through information sharing, use of unmanned systems and finding new lines of collaboration are all good news for India, which has for long sought the US and its allies to take terrorism threats more seriously. The third aspect is that without militarising the Quad, India has yet joined in efforts to have common understanding on maritime security. Working through a host of initiatives, Quad is expanding cooperation in maritime domain awareness, collaboration among coastguards, and increasing efforts for quicker and more effective HADR. India is now a clear partner of such Quad initiatives, and not just a recipient of support. The Quad has positioned itself as a challenge to the Chinese view of the region. It engages ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the IORA for better and sustainable development. Thus, the Quad supports the free and open Indo-Pacific and check China's aggressive manoeuvres, which is India's aim as well. Watch | Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware × There are areas in which India is now directly contributing, and these need to be highlighted. The Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) has performed well in raising awareness. Information is now collected and shared with greater frequency among the 24 countries who are currently benefiting. The Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean region in Gurugram, India is an indispensable part, particularly in dealing with countries of the IORA, in which India’s leadership is recognised. India will chair IORA in 2025. India's view of the Indo-Pacific as including the Indian Ocean up to the shores of Africa is now better accepted. The US will work through its Central Command and AFRICOM, with Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in Africa. A new maritime initiative for training in the Indo-Pacific ‘MAITRI’ will bring capacity-building efforts into the IPMDA. India will contribute trainings under ITEC program to countries in IOR. The health sector brought vaccine diplomacy and a Quad Health Partnership. India has been at the fulcrum of the vaccine manufacturing. Further efforts to create vaccines for mpox and future pandemics would utilize Indian capabilities. India is contributing to the Cancer Moonshot dealing with cervical cancer. The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support 40 million HPV vaccine doses. India will provide HPV sampling kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the region. Through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will offer technical assistance to interested countries for the adoption of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening. Infrastructure is an area where the Quad lags China. Various initiatives among India-Japan- US, the Japan-US- Australia or the G7 have not borne much fruit. China's BRI remains the dominant theme for infrastructure development in the region. Now the Quad is taking shorter steps towards quality infrastructure and three elements with Indian participation are visible. Cable connectivity through a resilient partnership tasks Quad countries to provide maritime cable networks away from Chinese control. India has commissioned a feasibility study to determine how maritime cable networks can be facilitated by aggregating maintenance and repair capacities of the Quad partners in the Indo-Pacific. This will prevent vulnerabilities hitting the proposed networks and provide them with durability and reliability. A Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to develop port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This will challenge Chinese domination of new ports in ASEAN countries, in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and in Africa, but would require considerable effort and investment. India will start this with a Quad regional ports and transportation conference in Mumbai in 2025. This would seek commonalities, resources and include the private sector to build effective port infrastructure ahead. The launch of a Quad Indo Pacific logistics network pilot project will support the ports initiative, as well as the HADR efforts. The Quad infrastructure fellowships have started well and now cover 2200 experts. They will now work more closely with the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, particularly to enhance power sector resilience. Also read | PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened The Quad is focusing more on critical and emerging technologies and India's interest in this is stoked by the emphasis on semiconductors, where complementarities are leveraged to create competition and add resilience to Quad's semiconductor supply chain. To support climate and clean energy, India committed to invest $ 2 million in new solar projects in the island countries of Fiji in the South Pacific, and Comoros, Madagascar and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The US has provided a $250 million DFC loan to Tata Power Solar to create a solar cell manufacturing facility. A similar loan of $500 billion, to First Solar to build a 3.3 GW solar module manufacturing facility in India is also mentioned in the Wilmington Declaration. Indian capabilities are now much better leveraged and integrated into the growing Quad functional collaboration matrix. As a developing country, India uses its development cooperation experience to advance Quad as a Global Force for Good. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Quad enlarges space for India

US President Joe Biden said that his administration is seeking to reduce regional tensions as sweeping Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon and retaliatory Hezbollah rocket attacks have raised the specter of all-out war.

Joe Biden Says US Working To De-Escalate Tensions As Israel Strikes Lebanon

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that the war with Russia was nearing its end whilst calling on allies to strengthen Kyiv's army.&nbsp;Zelensky is currently in the US where he is planning to present a "Victory Plan" to US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former prez, Donald Trump.</p>

<p>"I think that we are closer to the peace than we think.&nbsp;We are closer to the end of the war. We just have to be very strong, very strong," Zelensky told <em>ABC News </em>in an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quizzed about what exactly was the much-hyped plan, Zelensky refused to give much away but asked for support from the friendly nations.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"The plan of victory is strengthening of Ukraine.&nbsp;That's why we're asking our friends, our allies, to strengthen us. It's very important."</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president added that his Russian counterpart, President Vladimir Putin was "afraid" of the Kursk operation launched by his troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's true. He's afraid very much. Why? Because his people saw that he can't defend -- that he can't defend all his territory."</p>

<p>The Ukrainian leader said that only from a "strong position" can Ukraine "push Putin to stop the war."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-meets-ukrainian-president-zelensky-before-concluding-his-three-day-us-visit-761388"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi Meets Ukrainian President Zelensky Before Concluding His Three-Day US Visit</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Moscow to study Kyiv's plan</strong></h2>

<p>Asked about Zelensky's initiative, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow&nbsp;would study what the Ukrainian prez had pressed as his "Victory Plan" to end the war with Russia after it releases official information.</p>

<p>"We believe that one should not analyse media reports. If information about it appears in official sources we will of course scrutinise it. There is a lot of contradictory and unreliable information on it out there, so we are very cautious about this," said Peskov.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-will-study-zelenskys-victory-plan-if-released-officially-761234"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Kremlin says will study Zelensky's 'victory plan' if released officially</strong></a></p>

<p>Prior to leaving for the US, Zelensky said the 'Victory Plan'&nbsp;would act as a "bridge" to a second Ukraine-led summit on peace that Kyiv wants to hold and would invite Russia to later this year.</p>

<p>The war has been ongoing for more than two years after Russian invaded Ukrainian territories in February of 2022. What was once touted as a straightforward victory for Putin has turned into a long-drawn war that is guzzling the resources for both sides at an astonishing rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that the war with Russia was nearing its end whilst calling on allies to strengthen Kyiv's army. Zelensky is currently in the US where he is planning to present a "Victory Plan" to US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former prez, Donald Trump.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that the war with Russia was nearing its end whilst calling on allies to strengthen Kyiv's army. Zelensky is currently in the US where he is planning to present a "Victory Plan" to US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former prez, Donald Trump. "I think that we are closer to the peace than we think. We are closer to the end of the war. We just have to be very strong, very strong," Zelensky told ABC News in an interview. Quizzed about what exactly was the much-hyped plan, Zelensky refused to give much away but asked for support from the friendly nations. "The plan of victory is strengthening of Ukraine. That's why we're asking our friends, our allies, to strengthen us. It's very important." The Ukrainian president added that his Russian counterpart, President Vladimir Putin was "afraid" of the Kursk operation launched by his troops. "It's true. He's afraid very much. Why? Because his people saw that he can't defend -- that he can't defend all his territory." The Ukrainian leader said that only from a "strong position" can Ukraine "push Putin to stop the war." Watch | PM Modi Meets Ukrainian President Zelensky Before Concluding His Three-Day US Visit × Moscow to study Kyiv's plan Asked about Zelensky's initiative, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow would study what the Ukrainian prez had pressed as his "Victory Plan" to end the war with Russia after it releases official information. "We believe that one should not analyse media reports. If information about it appears in official sources we will of course scrutinise it. There is a lot of contradictory and unreliable information on it out there, so we are very cautious about this," said Peskov. Also read | Kremlin says will study Zelensky's 'victory plan' if released officially Prior to leaving for the US, Zelensky said the 'Victory Plan' would act as a "bridge" to a second Ukraine-led summit on peace that Kyiv wants to hold and would invite Russia to later this year. The war has been ongoing for more than two years after Russian invaded Ukrainian territories in February of 2022. What was once touted as a straightforward victory for Putin has turned into a long-drawn war that is guzzling the resources for both sides at an astonishing rate. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky makes bombshell claim during US trip, says Ukraine 'closer to end of war' with Russia

<p>President Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;travels to the United States to set out a "victory plan" to his closest ally this week, in an urgent attempt to influence White House policy on&nbsp;Ukraine's&nbsp;war with Russia no matter who wins the US elections in November.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian leader has said he wants to present the plan to President Joe Biden and his two potential successors, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, during the trip, which will see&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;addressing the UN General Assembly on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Zelensky&nbsp;has said that if the plan is backed by the West, it will have a broad impact on Moscow, including a psychological one that could help compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war diplomatically.</p>

<p>"The Victory Plan envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners - from now until the end of December,"&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;told reporters on Friday.</p>

<p>He added that the plan would act as a "bridge" to a second Ukraine-led summit on peace that Kyiv wants to hold and invite Russia to later this year.</p>

<p>There is no alternative to peace,&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;has said, "no freezing of the war or any other manipulations that would simply postpone Russian aggression to another stage".</p>

<p>Yet the two sides remain far apart.</p>

<p>Zelensky&nbsp;wants Ukraine inside NATO and the European Union and Russia driven from all Ukrainian territory, though he says the latter aim can be achieved diplomatically. Putin says peace talks can only begin if Kyiv abandons swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine to Russia and drops its NATO membership plan.</p>

<p>Zelensky's trip comes at a perilous&nbsp;juncture for Ukraine. A Trump victory in the Nov. 5 presidential election could prompt a reset of Washington's policy on Ukraine, which relies heavily on US&nbsp;military and financial support.</p>

<p>During a TV debate, Trump refused to say if he wanted Ukraine to defeat Russia and said he would try to end the war before taking office if he wins. Harris accused Trump of seeking Kyiv's swift and unconditional capitulation.</p>

<p>As the election nears, Kyiv has put on a show of strength, rapidly seizing land in a high-risk Aug. 6 incursion into Russia's Kursk region, touting new weapons including a "drone missile" and ballistic weapon and launching major drone strikes.</p>

<p>One attack caused a massive blast at an ammo dump in Russia's Tver region last Wednesday.</p>

<p>Russia has ramped up drone and missile attacks, taken receipt of Iranian ballistic missiles, according to the West, ordered an increase in the size of its army, moved to change its nuclear doctrine and stepped up its eastern offensive.</p>

<h2><strong>'Biden's decision'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>US&nbsp;National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has said Biden is eager to discuss&nbsp;Zelensky's "comprehensive strategy for success in this war" against Russia.</p>

<p>Zelensky&nbsp;said his plan consists of a small number of points and that "all these points depend on Biden's decision, not Putin's".</p>

<p>On Friday, the leader said the steps involved establishing&nbsp;Ukraine's&nbsp;place in the world's "security architecture", battlefield decisions including the Kursk operation, bolstering&nbsp;Ukraine's&nbsp;armoury and supporting the economy.</p>

<p>Oleksandr Kovalenko, a Ukrainian military analyst, said&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;might press for longer-term assurances of aid into 2025 and seek some kind of declaration of post-Biden continuity in support.</p>

<p>"This will be a very important moment. Perhaps in some ways, in a political and military-political sense, it will be a pivotal moment," he said.</p>

<p>Zelensky&nbsp;is almost certain to repeat his call on Biden to authorise long-range strikes into Russia, a move Moscow has said would make NATO members direct participants in the war and elicit a response.</p>

<p>Ukraine wants to strike military installations up to 300 km (186 miles) inside Russia, such as airfields that host attack helicopters and warplanes&nbsp;used to fire glide bombs. Washington has said it does not see the easing of those restrictions as a battlefield game-changer.</p>

<p>Russia, which occupies 18 per cent&nbsp;of Ukrainian territory, has been on the offensive since last October and in August chalked up its fastest sustained recent month of advances.</p>

<p>Ukraine's&nbsp;toehold in Russia's Kursk region could serve as a bargaining chip at talks or as an insurance policy against any outside push to freeze the war along current lines. But Kyiv would have to hold the territory amid serious&nbsp;manpower challenges against a much larger foe.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia has been making progress towards the transport hub of Pokrovsk. Its capture could wreak havoc with Ukrainian logistics and open up new lines of attack.</p>

<p>Kovalenko said Russia likely wanted to capture Pokrovsk by the year-end.</p>

<p>"That would allow them... to strengthen pressure on the information front to catalyse thoughts of peace negotiations, naturally on their terms," he said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-says-ukraine-victory-plan-is-ready-760089"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says Ukraine 'victory Plan' is Ready</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine hopes to advance a blueprint for peace at a second international summit later this year and says Russia will be invited at the request of other participants. The first one in Switzerland pointedly shunned Moscow in June and was skipped by China and chunks of the Global South.</p>

<p>Zelensky&nbsp;says his summit initiative is the only viable peace format and this month slammed as "destructive" a Chinese-Brazilian proposal that calls for "de-escalating the situation" and the resumption of direct dialogue without requiring Russia to pull back.</p>

<p>Ukraine faces its toughest winter of the 2-1/2 year war yet after Russian strikes damaged a huge chunk of energy producing capacity.</p>

<p>The government also faces mounting economic challenges, and plans its first wartime tax hikes to cover a funding gap of about $12.2 billion for its army this year.</p>

<p>Opinion polls paint a mixed picture.</p>

<p>Some 32 per cent of Ukrainians were open, as of May 2024, to certain territorial concessions to end the war, up from 10 per cent in May 2022, said Anton Hrushetskyi, executive director of Kyiv-based pollster KIIS. But most of them envisioned an arrangement that would postpone the liberation of territory rather than abandon it for good, he added.</p>

<p>The key demand for any peace deal is the need for firm security guarantees such as NATO membership, he said.</p>

<p>"Despite negative trends, Ukrainians are still optimistic enough and believe for a better future - and hope this future will be in the European Union and with finally adequate security guarantees."</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


President Volodymyr Zelensky travels to the United States to set out a "victory plan" to his closest ally this week, in an urgent attempt to influence White House policy on Ukraine's war with Russia no matter who wins the US elections in November.

President Volodymyr Zelensky travels to the United States to set out a "victory plan" to his closest ally this week, in an urgent attempt to influence White House policy on Ukraine's war with Russia no matter who wins the US elections in November. The Ukrainian leader has said he wants to present the plan to President Joe Biden and his two potential successors, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, during the trip, which will see Zelensky addressing the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. Zelensky has said that if the plan is backed by the West, it will have a broad impact on Moscow, including a psychological one that could help compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war diplomatically. "The Victory Plan envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners - from now until the end of December," Zelensky told reporters on Friday. He added that the plan would act as a "bridge" to a second Ukraine-led summit on peace that Kyiv wants to hold and invite Russia to later this year. There is no alternative to peace, Zelensky has said, "no freezing of the war or any other manipulations that would simply postpone Russian aggression to another stage". Yet the two sides remain far apart. Zelensky wants Ukraine inside NATO and the European Union and Russia driven from all Ukrainian territory, though he says the latter aim can be achieved diplomatically. Putin says peace talks can only begin if Kyiv abandons swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine to Russia and drops its NATO membership plan. Zelensky's trip comes at a perilous juncture for Ukraine. A Trump victory in the Nov. 5 presidential election could prompt a reset of Washington's policy on Ukraine, which relies heavily on US military and financial support. During a TV debate, Trump refused to say if he wanted Ukraine to defeat Russia and said he would try to end the war before taking office if he wins. Harris accused Trump of seeking Kyiv's swift and unconditional capitulation. As the election nears, Kyiv has put on a show of strength, rapidly seizing land in a high-risk Aug. 6 incursion into Russia's Kursk region, touting new weapons including a "drone missile" and ballistic weapon and launching major drone strikes. One attack caused a massive blast at an ammo dump in Russia's Tver region last Wednesday. Russia has ramped up drone and missile attacks, taken receipt of Iranian ballistic missiles, according to the West, ordered an increase in the size of its army, moved to change its nuclear doctrine and stepped up its eastern offensive. 'Biden's decision' US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has said Biden is eager to discuss Zelensky's "comprehensive strategy for success in this war" against Russia. Zelensky said his plan consists of a small number of points and that "all these points depend on Biden's decision, not Putin's". On Friday, the leader said the steps involved establishing Ukraine's place in the world's "security architecture", battlefield decisions including the Kursk operation, bolstering Ukraine's armoury and supporting the economy. Oleksandr Kovalenko, a Ukrainian military analyst, said Zelensky might press for longer-term assurances of aid into 2025 and seek some kind of declaration of post-Biden continuity in support. "This will be a very important moment. Perhaps in some ways, in a political and military-political sense, it will be a pivotal moment," he said. Zelensky is almost certain to repeat his call on Biden to authorise long-range strikes into Russia, a move Moscow has said would make NATO members direct participants in the war and elicit a response. Ukraine wants to strike military installations up to 300 km (186 miles) inside Russia, such as airfields that host attack helicopters and warplanes used to fire glide bombs. Washington has said it does not see the easing of those restrictions as a battlefield game-changer. Russia, which occupies 18 per cent of Ukrainian territory, has been on the offensive since last October and in August chalked up its fastest sustained recent month of advances. Ukraine's toehold in Russia's Kursk region could serve as a bargaining chip at talks or as an insurance policy against any outside push to freeze the war along current lines. But Kyiv would have to hold the territory amid serious manpower challenges against a much larger foe. Meanwhile, Russia has been making progress towards the transport hub of Pokrovsk. Its capture could wreak havoc with Ukrainian logistics and open up new lines of attack. Kovalenko said Russia likely wanted to capture Pokrovsk by the year-end. "That would allow them... to strengthen pressure on the information front to catalyse thoughts of peace negotiations, naturally on their terms," he said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says Ukraine 'victory Plan' is Ready × Challenges Ukraine hopes to advance a blueprint for peace at a second international summit later this year and says Russia will be invited at the request of other participants. The first one in Switzerland pointedly shunned Moscow in June and was skipped by China and chunks of the Global South. Zelensky says his summit initiative is the only viable peace format and this month slammed as "destructive" a Chinese-Brazilian proposal that calls for "de-escalating the situation" and the resumption of direct dialogue without requiring Russia to pull back. Ukraine faces its toughest winter of the 2-1/2 year war yet after Russian strikes damaged a huge chunk of energy producing capacity. The government also faces mounting economic challenges, and plans its first wartime tax hikes to cover a funding gap of about $12.2 billion for its army this year. Opinion polls paint a mixed picture. Some 32 per cent of Ukrainians were open, as of May 2024, to certain territorial concessions to end the war, up from 10 per cent in May 2022, said Anton Hrushetskyi, executive director of Kyiv-based pollster KIIS. But most of them envisioned an arrangement that would postpone the liberation of territory rather than abandon it for good, he added. The key demand for any peace deal is the need for firm security guarantees such as NATO membership, he said. "Despite negative trends, Ukrainians are still optimistic enough and believe for a better future - and hope this future will be in the European Union and with finally adequate security guarantees." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zelensky to present victory plan to Biden, Harris and Trump during US visit

<p>The US has handed over to India 297 antiquities during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Sunday (Sep 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Official sources said the illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history, and India has been particularly hit.</p>

<p>“Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India," PM Modi said on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties.<br />
<br />
I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India. <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> <a href="https://t.co/0jziIYZ1GO">pic.twitter.com/0jziIYZ1GO</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1837688252670923099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Some of the notable antiquities handed over are:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Apsara in sandstone from Central India belonging to 10-11th century C</li>
	<li>Jain Tirthankar in bronze from Central India belonging to 15-16th century CE</li>
	<li>Terracotta vase from Eastern India belonging to 3-4th century CE</li>
	<li>Stone Sculpture from South India belonging to 1st century BCE-1st century CE</li>
	<li>Lord Ganesha in Bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE</li>
	<li>Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone from North India belonging 15-16th century CE</li>
	<li>Lord Krishna in bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE</li>
	<li>Lord Karthikeya in granite from South India belonging to 13-14th century CE</li>
</ul>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-how-india-is-pushing-for-the-return-of-stolen-antiquities-618501"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: How India is pushing for the return of stolen antiquities</strong></a></p>

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<p>With this, the total number of ancient items recovered by India since 2014 has gone to 640, officials said, adding the number returned from the USA alone will be 578.</p>

<p>Apart from the current visit, the earlier visits of Modi to the USA have also been particularly fruitful in return of antiquities to India.</p>

<p>Officials said during his visit to the US in 2021, 157 antiquities were handed over by the US government, including the exquisite bronze Nataraja statue from the 12th century CE. Also, a few days after his US visit in 2023, 105 antiquities were returned to India.</p>

<p>India’s successful recoveries extend beyond the USA, with 16 artefacts being returned from the UK, 40 from Australia among others, they noted.</p>

<p>In stark contrast only one artefact was returned to India between 2004 and 2013, they said.</p>

<p>Further, in July 2024, on the sidelines of the 46th World Heritage Committee, in New Delhi, India and the United States signed the first ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ to prevent and curb the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/met-museum-to-return-antiquities-to-india-as-part-of-1414-objects-to-be-sent-by-us-652582"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Met Museum to return antiquities to India as part of 1,414 objects to be sent by US</strong></a></p>

<p>The spectacular achievement over the last ten years demonstrates the government’s resolve to reclaim India’s stolen treasures and preserve its cultural heritage for future generations, they said.</p>

<p>Modi’s personal bond with global leaders has played a pivotal role in securing these returns.</p>

<p>His proactive approach has led to the recovery of significant artefacts, including revered sculptures and idols, reaffirming India’s cultural identity, they added.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


The US has handed over to India 297 antiquities during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Sunday (Sep 22). Official sources said the illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history, and India has been particularly hit.

The US has handed over to India 297 antiquities during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Sunday (Sep 22). Official sources said the illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history, and India has been particularly hit. “Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India," PM Modi said on X (formerly Twitter). Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India. @POTUS @JoeBiden pic.twitter.com/0jziIYZ1GO — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 22, 2024 × Some of the notable antiquities handed over are: Apsara in sandstone from Central India belonging to 10-11th century C Jain Tirthankar in bronze from Central India belonging to 15-16th century CE Terracotta vase from Eastern India belonging to 3-4th century CE Stone Sculpture from South India belonging to 1st century BCE-1st century CE Lord Ganesha in Bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone from North India belonging 15-16th century CE Lord Krishna in bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE Lord Karthikeya in granite from South India belonging to 13-14th century CE Watch | Gravitas Plus: How India is pushing for the return of stolen antiquities × With this, the total number of ancient items recovered by India since 2014 has gone to 640, officials said, adding the number returned from the USA alone will be 578. Apart from the current visit, the earlier visits of Modi to the USA have also been particularly fruitful in return of antiquities to India. Officials said during his visit to the US in 2021, 157 antiquities were handed over by the US government, including the exquisite bronze Nataraja statue from the 12th century CE. Also, a few days after his US visit in 2023, 105 antiquities were returned to India. India’s successful recoveries extend beyond the USA, with 16 artefacts being returned from the UK, 40 from Australia among others, they noted. In stark contrast only one artefact was returned to India between 2004 and 2013, they said. Further, in July 2024, on the sidelines of the 46th World Heritage Committee, in New Delhi, India and the United States signed the first ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ to prevent and curb the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA. Also read | Met Museum to return antiquities to India as part of 1,414 objects to be sent by US The spectacular achievement over the last ten years demonstrates the government’s resolve to reclaim India’s stolen treasures and preserve its cultural heritage for future generations, they said. Modi’s personal bond with global leaders has played a pivotal role in securing these returns. His proactive approach has led to the recovery of significant artefacts, including revered sculptures and idols, reaffirming India’s cultural identity, they added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lord Ganesha, Krishna artefacts among 297 antiquities handed over to India by US during PM Modi's trip

<p>A county sheriff was charged with murder Thursday after he allegedly shot and killed a district court judge in the southern US state of&nbsp;Kentucky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines was taken into custody in connection with a shooting at the Letcher County courthouse, the Louisville Courier-Journal newspaper reported.</p>

<p>He was charged with one count of murder in the first degree, according to CBS News.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesman for police told the outlet the shooting occurred after an argument between Stines and Judge Kevin Mullins, 54, in the latter's office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-hunt-armed-and-dangerous-suspect-after-kentucky-i-75-highway-shooting-leaves-several-injured-756757"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US: Police hunt 'armed and dangerous' suspect after Kentucky I-75 highway shooting leaves several injured</strong></a></p>

<p>Investigators have not yet announced a motive.</p>

<p>Kentucky&nbsp;Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the shooting in a post on X, formerly Twitter.</p>

<p>"Sadly, I have been informed that a district judge in Letcher County was shot and killed in his chambers this afternoon," Beshear said.</p>

<p>"There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow."</p>

<p>Gun violence is common in the United States, a country where there are more firearms than people.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-counting-the-cost-the-rising-numbers-in-us-gun-violence-666610"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Counting the Cost: The Rising Numbers in US Gun Violence</strong></a></p>

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<p>Earlier this month, a man shot and injured five people on a&nbsp;Kentucky&nbsp;highway. The gunman's body was found Wednesday after a 10-day manhunt.</p>

<p>Despite polls showing Americans favour more gun restrictions, a powerful gun rights lobby, constitutional protections and a passionate culture around firearm ownership mean that attempts to clamp down on gun rights are always met with stiff political resistance.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


A county sheriff was charged with murder Thursday after he allegedly shot and killed a district court judge in the southern US state of Kentucky. Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines was taken into custody in connection with a shooting at the Letcher County courthouse, the Louisville Courier-Journal newspaper reported.

A county sheriff was charged with murder Thursday after he allegedly shot and killed a district court judge in the southern US state of Kentucky. Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines was taken into custody in connection with a shooting at the Letcher County courthouse, the Louisville Courier-Journal newspaper reported. He was charged with one count of murder in the first degree, according to CBS News. A spokesman for police told the outlet the shooting occurred after an argument between Stines and Judge Kevin Mullins, 54, in the latter's office. Also read | US: Police hunt 'armed and dangerous' suspect after Kentucky I-75 highway shooting leaves several injured Investigators have not yet announced a motive. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the shooting in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "Sadly, I have been informed that a district judge in Letcher County was shot and killed in his chambers this afternoon," Beshear said. "There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow." Gun violence is common in the United States, a country where there are more firearms than people. Watch | Gravitas: Counting the Cost: The Rising Numbers in US Gun Violence × Earlier this month, a man shot and injured five people on a Kentucky highway. The gunman's body was found Wednesday after a 10-day manhunt. Despite polls showing Americans favour more gun restrictions, a powerful gun rights lobby, constitutional protections and a passionate culture around firearm ownership mean that attempts to clamp down on gun rights are always met with stiff political resistance. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US sheriff charged for killing judge inside Kentucky courthouse

The Teamsters Union has announced that it will not endorse Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump in the upcoming U.S. presidential election. This decision comes as the union emphasizes the need to prioritize the interests of its members over political affiliations. With over 1.4 million members, the Teamsters’ stance could significantly impact the race.

Teamsters Union Declines To Endorse Harris or Trump In Upcoming U.S. Election

Donald Trump announced that he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his upcoming US visit, praising him as "a fantastic man." The meeting comes amid growing ties between the two leaders and discussions on key global issues. Find out more about their relationship and the significance of this meeting for US-India relations.

Donald Trump To Meet PM Modi Next Week, Will PM Modi Also Meet Kamala Harris?

China has been advised to strengthen its measures to protect against global trade sanctions. This recommendation comes as the country faces increasing economic pressure from international trade restrictions. Enhancing protective strategies could help China mitigate the impact of these sanctions on its economy and global trade relationships.

China Advised To Enhance Protection Against Global Trade Sanctions

China has made a major breakthrough in chipmaking technology by developing a new laser lithography machine, pushing forward despite US sanctions. This advancement could help China reduce its reliance on foreign semiconductor technologies and boost its domestic chip production capabilities.

China Advances Chipmaking With New Laser Lithography Machine, Defies US Sanctions

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