Nepal's ruling coalition on Sunday ratified the much-debated Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact. The compact was endorsed by the ruling coalition parties amid obstructions by the main opposition party, CPN-UML, in the lower house of the parliament.

Following this development, the implementation of the compact will now take place. Finance Minister Janardan Sharma, on behalf of the government, presented the proposal for endorsement. Speaker of the House, Agni Prasad Sapkota, after rounds of deliberation, announced ratification of the agreement.

The ratification came after communist parties in the coalition government agreed to endorse the compact. Their support was won by including 'interpretive declaration' to the proposal. The proposal was later passed by the Council of Ministers.

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has not only managed to stick to the deadline of February 28 given to the United States but also saved the coalition from breaking apart.

“Due to patience and tactful leadership of Prime Minister Sher B Deuba, he is able to obtain broader consensus to accept the developmental grant from US gov under MCC. It is passed by parliament with explanatory notes. It is now the duty of MCA Nepal to complete this project in time,” Prakash S Mahat, Nepali Congress Spokesperson said in a tweet.&nbsp;

While Nepali Congress was firm on its stance to ratify the agreement, its partners in government - CPN-Maoist Centre, CPN- Unified Socialist, Janata Samajwadi Party, and Rashtriya Janamorcha Party - were opposed to the same.

The interpretative declaration will seek clarification on the provisions that the parties opposing the MCC compact have been saying are against the interest of the country.

The declaration also interprets that the MCC compact won’t be part of any military strategy of the United States government in the Indo-Pacific. It also specifies that Nepal’s constitution would be above the MCC.

It also has the provision that Nepal can terminate the MCC compact within 30 days if it finds it to be against interests of the country.

The interpretative declaration has basically included all those provisions on which the US had earlier issued a clarification.

US reacts

Asserting on the strong ties Nepal and America share, the United States Embassy in Nepal on Sunday said relationship with Nepal is ‘broader than one agreement’.

The embassy in a statement said the Government of Nepal signed the MCC agreement in 2017 after determining its goals to modernize Nepal’s energy and transportation sectors with the hope of helping more than 23 million Nepalis.

“The decision whether to ratify the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact has always rested with the Government of Nepal as a sovereign democratic nation,” the statement said.&nbsp;

Outlining on the benefits of the compact, the embassy said, “In the nearly 20 years since its inception, MCC compacts have helped alleviate poverty around the world by forming partnerships with developing countries who are committed to economic freedom, investing in their citizens, and good governance, including promoting democratic principles and combatting corruption.”

Nepal's ruling coalition on Sunday ratified the much-debated Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact. The compact was endorsed by the ruling coalition parties amid obstructions by the main opposition party, CPN-UML, in the lower house of the parliament.

Nepal's ruling coalition on Sunday ratified the much-debated Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact. The compact was endorsed by the ruling coalition parties amid obstructions by the main opposition party, CPN-UML, in the lower house of the parliament. Following this development, the implementation of the compact will now take place. Finance Minister Janardan Sharma, on behalf of the government, presented the proposal for endorsement. Speaker of the House, Agni Prasad Sapkota, after rounds of deliberation, announced ratification of the agreement. The ratification came after communist parties in the coalition government agreed to endorse the compact. Their support was won by including 'interpretive declaration' to the proposal. The proposal was later passed by the Council of Ministers. Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has not only managed to stick to the deadline of February 28 given to the United States but also saved the coalition from breaking apart. “Due to patience and tactful leadership of Prime Minister Sher B Deuba, he is able to obtain broader consensus to accept the developmental grant from US gov under MCC. It is passed by parliament with explanatory notes. It is now the duty of MCA Nepal to complete this project in time,” Prakash S Mahat, Nepali Congress Spokesperson said in a tweet. While Nepali Congress was firm on its stance to ratify the agreement, its partners in government - CPN-Maoist Centre, CPN- Unified Socialist, Janata Samajwadi Party, and Rashtriya Janamorcha Party - were opposed to the same. The interpretative declaration will seek clarification on the provisions that the parties opposing the MCC compact have been saying are against the interest of the country. The declaration also interprets that the MCC compact won’t be part of any military strategy of the United States government in the Indo-Pacific. It also specifies that Nepal’s constitution would be above the MCC. It also has the provision that Nepal can terminate the MCC compact within 30 days if it finds it to be against interests of the country. The interpretative declaration has basically included all those provisions on which the US had earlier issued a clarification. US reacts Asserting on the strong ties Nepal and America share, the United States Embassy in Nepal on Sunday said relationship with Nepal is ‘broader than one agreement’. The embassy in a statement said the Government of Nepal signed the MCC agreement in 2017 after determining its goals to modernize Nepal’s energy and transportation sectors with the hope of helping more than 23 million Nepalis. “The decision whether to ratify the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact has always rested with the Government of Nepal as a sovereign democratic nation,” the statement said. Outlining on the benefits of the compact, the embassy said, “In the nearly 20 years since its inception, MCC compacts have helped alleviate poverty around the world by forming partnerships with developing countries who are committed to economic freedom, investing in their citizens, and good governance, including promoting democratic principles and combatting corruption.”

Nepal ratifies MCC, the US-offered infrastructure aid deal

US State Department said on Monday (February 28) that it has decided to suspend operations at US Embassy in Minsk, Belarus. In addition to this, the state department has also authorised voluntary departure of non-emergency employees and family members from&nbsp;its embassy in Moscow.

In a statement,&nbsp;the US State Department said that these steps were being taken due to "security and safety" issues. It added&nbsp;that "unprovoked and unjustified attack" by "Russian military" has thrown up these security issues for its staff.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-compensate-the-damage-kremlin-on-western-sanctions-457472">'Russia will compensate the damage': Kremlin on Western sanctions</a>

"...The Department of State continually adjusts its posture at embassies and consulates throughout the world in line with its mission, the local security environment, and the health situation..." read the statement.

State department said that for it, there was "no higher priority" than "safety and security of US citizens" and their dependents serving across the world.

The Ukraine conflict entered fifth day on February 28. On Monday the US took several decisions to cripple Russia's economic might. Treasury Department banned all transactions.

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"This action effectively immobilises any assets of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation held in the United States or by US persons, wherever located," said the treasury.

The Biden administration estimates that the move could impact “hundreds of billions of dollars” of Russian funding. Its officials said Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Japan, European Union and others will join the US in targeting the Russian central bank.

US State Department said on Monday (February 28) that it has decided to suspend operations at US Embassy in Minsk, Belarus. In addition to this, the state department has also authorised voluntary departure of non-emergency employees and family members from its embassy in Moscow.

US State Department said on Monday (February 28) that it has decided to suspend operations at US Embassy in Minsk, Belarus. In addition to this, the state department has also authorised voluntary departure of non-emergency employees and family members from its embassy in Moscow. In a statement, the US State Department said that these steps were being taken due to "security and safety" issues. It added that "unprovoked and unjustified attack" by "Russian military" has thrown up these security issues for its staff. Also Read | 'Russia will compensate the damage': Kremlin on Western sanctions "...The Department of State continually adjusts its posture at embassies and consulates throughout the world in line with its mission, the local security environment, and the health situation..." read the statement. State department said that for it, there was "no higher priority" than "safety and security of US citizens" and their dependents serving across the world. The Ukraine conflict entered fifth day on February 28. On Monday the US took several decisions to cripple Russia's economic might. Treasury Department banned all transactions. Also Read | Ukraine invasion: Belarus gives up non-nuclear status, approves hosting Russian forces permanently "This action effectively immobilises any assets of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation held in the United States or by US persons, wherever located," said the treasury. The Biden administration estimates that the move could impact “hundreds of billions of dollars” of Russian funding. Its officials said Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Japan, European Union and others will join the US in targeting the Russian central bank.

Operations at US Embassy in Minsk suspended: State department

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

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

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

US imposes restriction on importing Afghan cultural items

Switzerland's Michelle Gisin retained her Olympic title in the women's combined on Thursday as American Mikaela Shiffrin yet again failed to finish.

Gisin won gold with a total time of 2:25.67, a comfortable 1.05 ahead of compatriot Wendy Holdener. Italy's Federica Brignone finished in the bronze medal position.

Shiffrin was a strong favourite, even after her ill-fated performances at these Games, but for the third time here had the letters DNF - Did Not Finish -- next to her name.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-olympics-swedens-sandra-naeslund-wins-womens-ski-cross-final-takes-home-gold-453970">Beijing Winter Olympics: Sweden's Sandra Naeslund wins women's ski cross final, takes home gold</a>

She was well placed as fifth fastest after the morning's downhill leg but, returning to the Ice River course where she had skied out in both the giant slalom and slalom, Shiffrin missed a gate and incredibly skied off the course yet again.

"I didn’t make it to the finish again, and like 60 percent of my DNF rate has happened at this Olympic Games," said the American who came into the Games as the star of the sport and the great American medal hope.

"I didn’t feel pressure there. I mean there is always pressure but I just felt loose and relaxed and like I knew my plan, focused and good skiing - I was doing it and it still didn’t work. That is what it is," she said.

The six-times world champion has had 47 World Cup victories in slalom but that experience has counted for precious little in Beijing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-olympics-canada-reclaims-gold-medal-us-settles-for-silver-in-ice-hockey-453962">Beijing Winter Olympics: Canada reclaims gold medal, U.S. settles for silver in ice hockey</a>

"47 different times I had this feeling - the right balance of intensity, focus, the feeling I had on my skis - it always worked.

"It was always good, fast skiing but I never had an issue not finishing and especially not that early. So it is just a little bit of a mind-boggling event I guess".

Shiffrin won gold in giant slalom at Pyeongchang 2018 after winning the slalom title at Sochi 2014. She also claimed the silver medal in the combined four years ago.

BELOW EXPECTATIONS

The 26-year-old has competed in every individual event in Beijing but her results have been way below all expectations. She was only able to complete the speed events, finishing ninth in the super-G and 18th in the downhill.

But while Americans scratch their heads over Shiffrin's sudden loss of form, the Swiss are basking in their domination of the sport.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kamila-valieva-recieves-loud-cheers-breaks-down-after-returning-to-action-for-1st-time-since-doping-scandal-453839">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kamila-valieva-recieves-loud-cheers-breaks-down-after-returning-to-action-for-1st-time-since-doping-scandal-453839">Kamila Valieva receives loud cheers, breaks down after returning to action for 1st time since doping scandal</a>

Gisin's victory produced the fifth gold for the Swiss team at these Games and the second medal for both Gisin and Holdener.

"Four years ago I did it with my downhill and this time I did it with my slalom. It's a pity that Mikaela did not finish, I would love to have battled for gold with her," said Gisin

"I didn't think I could put a slalom run together like this after these three weeks, it was so intense."

Three of the Swiss Alpine team's golds have been for women and the country's Alpine medal tally in Beijing stands at nine in total, including a bronze in super-G for Gisin while Holdener finished third in slalom.

The pair had both medalled in the combined in Pyeongchang with Holdener taking bronze as Gisin triumphed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/richardson-case-different-from-kamila-valievas-international-olympic-committee-453832">American sprinter Richardson's case 'different' from Kamila Valieva's: International Olympic Committee</a>

Czech Ester Ledecka finished fourth, narrowly missing out on an Alpine medal to go with her snowboard gold in the parallel giant slalom.

Four years ago, Ledecka made history when she became the first athlete to win gold in both her snowboard event and Alpine, where she won in super-G.

Switzerland's Michelle Gisin retained her Olympic title in the women's combined on Thursday as American Mikaela Shiffrin yet again failed to finish. Gisin won gold with a total time of 2:25.

Switzerland's Michelle Gisin retained her Olympic title in the women's combined on Thursday as American Mikaela Shiffrin yet again failed to finish. Gisin won gold with a total time of 2:25.67, a comfortable 1.05 ahead of compatriot Wendy Holdener. Italy's Federica Brignone finished in the bronze medal position. Shiffrin was a strong favourite, even after her ill-fated performances at these Games, but for the third time here had the letters DNF - Did Not Finish -- next to her name. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Olympics: Sweden's Sandra Naeslund wins women's ski cross final, takes home gold She was well placed as fifth fastest after the morning's downhill leg but, returning to the Ice River course where she had skied out in both the giant slalom and slalom, Shiffrin missed a gate and incredibly skied off the course yet again. "I didn’t make it to the finish again, and like 60 percent of my DNF rate has happened at this Olympic Games," said the American who came into the Games as the star of the sport and the great American medal hope. "I didn’t feel pressure there. I mean there is always pressure but I just felt loose and relaxed and like I knew my plan, focused and good skiing - I was doing it and it still didn’t work. That is what it is," she said. The six-times world champion has had 47 World Cup victories in slalom but that experience has counted for precious little in Beijing. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Olympics: Canada reclaims gold medal, U.S. settles for silver in ice hockey "47 different times I had this feeling - the right balance of intensity, focus, the feeling I had on my skis - it always worked. "It was always good, fast skiing but I never had an issue not finishing and especially not that early. So it is just a little bit of a mind-boggling event I guess". Shiffrin won gold in giant slalom at Pyeongchang 2018 after winning the slalom title at Sochi 2014. She also claimed the silver medal in the combined four years ago. BELOW EXPECTATIONS The 26-year-old has competed in every individual event in Beijing but her results have been way below all expectations. She was only able to complete the speed events, finishing ninth in the super-G and 18th in the downhill. But while Americans scratch their heads over Shiffrin's sudden loss of form, the Swiss are basking in their domination of the sport. ALSO READ: Kamila Valieva receives loud cheers, breaks down after returning to action for 1st time since doping scandal Gisin's victory produced the fifth gold for the Swiss team at these Games and the second medal for both Gisin and Holdener. "Four years ago I did it with my downhill and this time I did it with my slalom. It's a pity that Mikaela did not finish, I would love to have battled for gold with her," said Gisin "I didn't think I could put a slalom run together like this after these three weeks, it was so intense." Three of the Swiss Alpine team's golds have been for women and the country's Alpine medal tally in Beijing stands at nine in total, including a bronze in super-G for Gisin while Holdener finished third in slalom. The pair had both medalled in the combined in Pyeongchang with Holdener taking bronze as Gisin triumphed. ALSO READ: American sprinter Richardson's case 'different' from Kamila Valieva's: International Olympic Committee Czech Ester Ledecka finished fourth, narrowly missing out on an Alpine medal to go with her snowboard gold in the parallel giant slalom. Four years ago, Ledecka made history when she became the first athlete to win gold in both her snowboard event and Alpine, where she won in super-G.

Beijing Olympics: Swiss skier Michelle Gisin retains gold as Mikaela Shiffrin fails again in Alpine skiing

Erin Jackson of the United States won gold in the women`s 500 metres speed skating with an explosive start on Sunday, giving the U.S. its first gold medal in the event since 1994 and first speed skating medal at the Beijing Olympics. She could be seen grinning widely after completing her lap of the National Speed Skating Olympics in 37.04 seconds, but had to wait for the last pair to finish before embracing her coach and bursting into tears.

"I wish I could describe how I feel. It is amazing. This medal means so much," an emotional Jackson told reporters. "It has been a tough couple of years and a tough beginning for this year. For this to come around like this I am so happy."

Jackson could have missed the opportunity to represent the United States after a stumble during the Olympic trials, but her Brittany Bowe gave her spot&nbsp;in the 500m to allow her team mate to take it. "She (Bowe) made a really big sacrifice for me and I`ll be grateful to her forever," Jackson said. 
Bowe did eventually qualify for the Olympics after a reallocation of unused spots, finishing 16th out of 30 skaters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-kamila-valieva-to-compete-post-cas-ruling-citing-exceptional-circumstances-453132">Beijing Olympics: Kamila Valieva to compete post CAS ruling citing 'exceptional circumstances'</a>

"I`m part of the puzzle, but this one is about her. She stood at the start line and she got that job done today," Bowe said of Jackson. Coach Ryan Shimabukuro said the relationship between Bowe and Jackson showed the camaraderie of the team.

"It`s a team in every sense of the word," he said. "They could see the big picture... Obviously it`s huge, and Brittany (Bowe) knows what it meant," he added. Silver medallist Miho Takagi of Japan set the early pace, coming out on top in the fourth pairing with a time of 37.12 seconds that was not beaten until Jackson`s race.

She appeared unperturbed by the drama on the rink, watching the races as she cycled on an exercise bike with a white mask on. "I was really surprised. When I first looked up to the screen, I thought my time was the result of my opponent," she said. "Winning silver is a bonus. I`m purely happy for that." Takagi, team captain for the Japanese delegation in Beijing, became the first Asian skater to win medals in each of the 500m, 1,000m, and 1,500m distances.

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ERIN JACKSON WINS IT! 
 
Relive her brilliant speed skating performance to win GOLD for <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamUSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TeamUSA</a>. 🥇 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WinterOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WinterOlympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/S1hY76c9ii">pic.twitter.com/S1hY76c9ii</a>
— NBC Olympics (@NBCOlympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCOlympics/status/1492870868145422341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-2022-swiss-skier-marco-odermatt-bags-gold-indias-arif-khan-settles-at-45th-in-giant-slalom-452962">Beijing Olympics 2022: Swiss skier Marco Odermatt bags gold, India's Arif Khan settles at 45th in giant slalom</a>

Jackson made an explosive start, keeping a slim lead of one tenth of a second ahead of Takagi throughout the single lap of the oval. Angelina Golikova of the Russian Olympic Committee took bronze in 37.21 seconds. Jackson`s gold was the first medal for an African American woman in speed skating, following in the footsteps of twice gold medallist Shani Davis.

American Davis became the first African American to claim a gold medal in an individual event at the Winter Games when he won the men`s 1,000m speed skating in Turin.

Erin Jackson of the United States won gold in the women`s 500 metres speed skating with an explosive start on Sunday, giving the U.S. its first gold medal in the event since 1994 and first speed skating medal at the Beijing Olympics.

Erin Jackson of the United States won gold in the women`s 500 metres speed skating with an explosive start on Sunday, giving the U.S. its first gold medal in the event since 1994 and first speed skating medal at the Beijing Olympics. She could be seen grinning widely after completing her lap of the National Speed Skating Olympics in 37.04 seconds, but had to wait for the last pair to finish before embracing her coach and bursting into tears. "I wish I could describe how I feel. It is amazing. This medal means so much," an emotional Jackson told reporters. "It has been a tough couple of years and a tough beginning for this year. For this to come around like this I am so happy." Jackson could have missed the opportunity to represent the United States after a stumble during the Olympic trials, but her Brittany Bowe gave her spot in the 500m to allow her team mate to take it. "She (Bowe) made a really big sacrifice for me and I`ll be grateful to her forever," Jackson said. Bowe did eventually qualify for the Olympics after a reallocation of unused spots, finishing 16th out of 30 skaters. ALSO READ | Beijing Olympics: Kamila Valieva to compete post CAS ruling citing 'exceptional circumstances' "I`m part of the puzzle, but this one is about her. She stood at the start line and she got that job done today," Bowe said of Jackson. Coach Ryan Shimabukuro said the relationship between Bowe and Jackson showed the camaraderie of the team. "It`s a team in every sense of the word," he said. "They could see the big picture... Obviously it`s huge, and Brittany (Bowe) knows what it meant," he added. Silver medallist Miho Takagi of Japan set the early pace, coming out on top in the fourth pairing with a time of 37.12 seconds that was not beaten until Jackson`s race. She appeared unperturbed by the drama on the rink, watching the races as she cycled on an exercise bike with a white mask on. "I was really surprised. When I first looked up to the screen, I thought my time was the result of my opponent," she said. "Winning silver is a bonus. I`m purely happy for that." Takagi, team captain for the Japanese delegation in Beijing, became the first Asian skater to win medals in each of the 500m, 1,000m, and 1,500m distances. ERIN JACKSON WINS IT! Relive her brilliant speed skating performance to win GOLD for @TeamUSA. 🥇 #WinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/S1hY76c9ii — NBC Olympics (@NBCOlympics) February 13, 2022 × ALSO READ | Beijing Olympics 2022: Swiss skier Marco Odermatt bags gold, India's Arif Khan settles at 45th in giant slalom Jackson made an explosive start, keeping a slim lead of one tenth of a second ahead of Takagi throughout the single lap of the oval. Angelina Golikova of the Russian Olympic Committee took bronze in 37.21 seconds. Jackson`s gold was the first medal for an African American woman in speed skating, following in the footsteps of twice gold medallist Shani Davis. American Davis became the first African American to claim a gold medal in an individual event at the Winter Games when he won the men`s 1,000m speed skating in Turin.

Erin Jackson creates history, becomes first Black woman to win individual Winter Olympic gold

Prosecutors in the US have charged a far-right podcaster after guns were found in the basement of his house. The 'alt-right' podcaster has strong anti-government views. The arsenal of weapons found in his house in Pennsylvania includes machine guns. Joseph Paul Berger (32) has been charged along with his father Joseph Raymond Berger (67).

The charges include several firearms offenses including possessing machine guns and possessing non-registered guns and silencers. The prosecutors say that the guns that were obtained from Berger's home include two MP5K submachine guns, one RPK-style machine gun, eight AK-style rifles, two C308 .308 Winchester caliber rifles.

The father-son duo has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The defence lawyer claims that Berger has not incited any real-life violence and that views presented in the podcast only represented political expression.

In one of the podcast episode, Berger had said “white man with a rifle can be very dangerous to the system indeed if he has the right motivation”. The quote was cited by The Guardian taken from filing of the prosecution in the court.

While filing charges, the prosecutors have argued that Berger was a "danger to community" and if released there was a risk of him running away.

Prosecutors in the US have charged a far-right podcaster after guns were found in the basement of his house. The 'alt-right' podcaster has strong anti-government views.

Prosecutors in the US have charged a far-right podcaster after guns were found in the basement of his house. The 'alt-right' podcaster has strong anti-government views. The arsenal of weapons found in his house in Pennsylvania includes machine guns. Joseph Paul Berger (32) has been charged along with his father Joseph Raymond Berger (67). The charges include several firearms offenses including possessing machine guns and possessing non-registered guns and silencers. The prosecutors say that the guns that were obtained from Berger's home include two MP5K submachine guns, one RPK-style machine gun, eight AK-style rifles, two C308 .308 Winchester caliber rifles. The father-son duo has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The defence lawyer claims that Berger has not incited any real-life violence and that views presented in the podcast only represented political expression. In one of the podcast episode, Berger had said “white man with a rifle can be very dangerous to the system indeed if he has the right motivation”. The quote was cited by The Guardian taken from filing of the prosecution in the court. While filing charges, the prosecutors have argued that Berger was a "danger to community" and if released there was a risk of him running away.

US: Machine guns found in far-right podcaster's basement

One out five or 21 per cent of applicants to Patriot Front, a white supremacist group in the US, had ties with US military, said a report in The Guardian. It cited documents leaked by Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and alternative media collective Unicorn Riot.

Patriot Front is a white supremacist group that rebranded itself from the name Vanguard America. The rebranding took place after 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.&nbsp;

SPLC's Hatewatch, a blog that tracks violent activities from the right-wing said that 21 per cent of applicants had individuals having current as well as former affiliations&nbsp;to US military.

SPLC says that Patriot Front is "one of the most prominent" white supremacist group in the US. The group is headed by a 23-year-old who reported to have&nbsp;said in past that goal of the group was to create 'a nation within a nation'.

Members of Patriot Front have expressed their open admiration for Nazism. In the information released by SPLC and Unicorn Riot some of the applicants have been quoted to have expressed their hate for Jews. Some others have been quoted to be professing their hatred for LGBTQ+ people.

The leaks also revealed that the white supremacist group also targetted minors in order to instill racist thoughts in them.

One out five or 21 per cent of applicants to Patriot Front, a white supremacist group in the US, had ties with US military, said a report in The Guardian. It cited documents leaked by Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and alternative media collective Unicorn Riot.

One out five or 21 per cent of applicants to Patriot Front, a white supremacist group in the US, had ties with US military, said a report in The Guardian. It cited documents leaked by Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and alternative media collective Unicorn Riot. Patriot Front is a white supremacist group that rebranded itself from the name Vanguard America. The rebranding took place after 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. SPLC's Hatewatch, a blog that tracks violent activities from the right-wing said that 21 per cent of applicants had individuals having current as well as former affiliations to US military. SPLC says that Patriot Front is "one of the most prominent" white supremacist group in the US. The group is headed by a 23-year-old who reported to have said in past that goal of the group was to create 'a nation within a nation'. Members of Patriot Front have expressed their open admiration for Nazism. In the information released by SPLC and Unicorn Riot some of the applicants have been quoted to have expressed their hate for Jews. Some others have been quoted to be professing their hatred for LGBTQ+ people. The leaks also revealed that the white supremacist group also targetted minors in order to instill racist thoughts in them.

One out of five applicants to white supremacist group tied to US military: Report

The New York City Council held a hearing on Tuesday to consider a plan to make sidewalk dining - first allowed in 2020 as a temporary measure to help blunt economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic - part of the new normal.

The plan to give permanent status to thousands of "streateries" outside of restaurants and bars has the support of Mayor Eric Adams and the New York Hospitality Alliance, an industry association.

Opponents say outside dining has created unsanitary conditions, helped draw more rats to sidewalks, drawn noise complaints in some neighborhoods and reduced the number of available parking spaces.

The Uniformed Firefighters Association has complained the sheds have narrowed streets so much as to delay their response and prevent them from safely raising ladders to windows.

The Coalition United for Equitable Urban Policy, an alliance of local businesses and residents, held a "Chuck the Sheds" protest rally over the weekend.

The 51-member council body will vote on the bill at a later date if it makes it through a committee vote.

The outdoor cafes were first permitted on a temporary basis under an “Open Restaurants” initiative to help offset the closure of indoor dining because of the pandemic, and later when severe capacity restrictions were imposed.

Restaurants were quick to set up makeshift structures of plywood and plastic sheeting, and many later installed more elaborate structures, some with heaters, suggesting they hoped the program was here to stay.

City officials and the restaurant industry have lauded the initiative for saving thousands of restaurants from closing permanently and enabling tens of thousands of workers to keep their jobs.

More than 12,000 restaurants and bars across New York, once the pandemic epicenter, take part in the program and 360 streets have been shut down to cars to expand space for outdoor restaurant eating, according to an online tracker.

Council member Marjorie Velázquez, who sponsored the bill, said the temporary program saved more than 100,000 jobs citywide.

"Beyond its positive economic impact, outdoor dining reimagined what the city could do with our streets," said Velázquez, who chaired the committee holding the hearing.

Council members at Tuesday's hearing questioned whether the city transportation department had the capacity to oversee such a program.

Some, concerned about the thousands of complaints logged against some restaurants, questioned what standards and enforcement measures would be put in place to ensure safety and cleanliness.

The New York City Council held a hearing on Tuesday to consider a plan to make sidewalk dining - first allowed in 2020 as a temporary measure to help blunt economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic - part of the new normal.

The New York City Council held a hearing on Tuesday to consider a plan to make sidewalk dining - first allowed in 2020 as a temporary measure to help blunt economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic - part of the new normal. The plan to give permanent status to thousands of "streateries" outside of restaurants and bars has the support of Mayor Eric Adams and the New York Hospitality Alliance, an industry association. Opponents say outside dining has created unsanitary conditions, helped draw more rats to sidewalks, drawn noise complaints in some neighborhoods and reduced the number of available parking spaces. The Uniformed Firefighters Association has complained the sheds have narrowed streets so much as to delay their response and prevent them from safely raising ladders to windows. The Coalition United for Equitable Urban Policy, an alliance of local businesses and residents, held a "Chuck the Sheds" protest rally over the weekend. The 51-member council body will vote on the bill at a later date if it makes it through a committee vote. The outdoor cafes were first permitted on a temporary basis under an “Open Restaurants” initiative to help offset the closure of indoor dining because of the pandemic, and later when severe capacity restrictions were imposed. Restaurants were quick to set up makeshift structures of plywood and plastic sheeting, and many later installed more elaborate structures, some with heaters, suggesting they hoped the program was here to stay. City officials and the restaurant industry have lauded the initiative for saving thousands of restaurants from closing permanently and enabling tens of thousands of workers to keep their jobs. More than 12,000 restaurants and bars across New York, once the pandemic epicenter, take part in the program and 360 streets have been shut down to cars to expand space for outdoor restaurant eating, according to an online tracker. Council member Marjorie Velázquez, who sponsored the bill, said the temporary program saved more than 100,000 jobs citywide. "Beyond its positive economic impact, outdoor dining reimagined what the city could do with our streets," said Velázquez, who chaired the committee holding the hearing. Council members at Tuesday's hearing questioned whether the city transportation department had the capacity to oversee such a program. Some, concerned about the thousands of complaints logged against some restaurants, questioned what standards and enforcement measures would be put in place to ensure safety and cleanliness.

New York considers making outdoor dining a permanent fixture

American-born Chinese athlete&nbsp;Zhu Yi has been facing intense criticism of Chinese social media platform Weibo after her disappointing show at the ongoing Winter Olympics 2022 in Beijing, China. Zhu Yi had given up her US citizenship and changed her name from Beverly Zu to Zhu Yi, in order to compete for the host nation at the Beijing Winter Games.

In what was a forgetful debut for the 19-year-old, Zhu Yi fell twice during the women's short program team event at the Beijing Winter Games. The figure skater had started her performance amidst cheers at the Beijing Indoor Stadium, however, she was reduced to tears on the ice court by the end of it.

Zhu failed to land a jump and fell down in the opening combination before messing up another jump in the short program. After falling twice, she managed a score o only 47.03 as China suffered a jolt in the team event. China slipped from the third spot to the fifth spot after Zhu's disappointing show.

The 19-year-old was seen in tears after her debut performance but she was not spared by the Chinese public on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter. 'Zhu Yi has fallen'&nbsp;started trending on the social media platform soon after her disappointing show as the US-born figure skater was subjected to intense criticism with some even questioning her loyalty towards China.

"Please let her learn Chinese first, before she talks about patriotism," wrote a Weibo user, as per Dailymail.UK.

"Zhu Yi, how ridiculous your performance is! How dare you skate for China? You cannot even hold a candle to an amateur," said another.

While there was immense&nbsp;backlash from all corners, some also offered support to the US-born Chinese figure skater and condemned the criticism directed towards her.

<img alt="Zhu Yi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="91daed00-c403-4abd-aa63-9a020e2e8130" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Zhu.png" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-bones-are-sticking-out-i-cry-every-day-russian-athlete-claims-food-at-beijing-winter-olympics-inedible-451017">'My bones are sticking out, I cry every day': Russian athlete claims food at Beijing Winter Olympics inedible</a>

Zhu was born in Los Angeles to Chinese parents and was named Beverly. She started figure skating at the tender age of seven and decided to change her name and give up her American citizenship after winning the novice division Figure Skating Championships in California, US.

She started a new life in China with the name Zhu Yi and subsequently secured a spot in the Chinese figure skating team for the ongoing Beijing Winter Olympics 2022. She was clearly under pressure ahead of her debut at the Winter Games and said she was 'upset and embarrassed' with her performance.

"I'm upset and a little embarrassed, I counted over and over again last night to see how many points I need to collect today to help my team advance," Zhu told the media, as per Dailymail.UK.

"I guess I felt a lot of pressure because I know everybody in China was pretty surprised with the selection for ladies' singles and I just really wanted to show them what I was able to do but unfortunately I didn't,"&nbsp;she added.&nbsp;

American-born Chinese athlete Zhu Yi has been facing intense criticism of Chinese social media platform Weibo after her disappointing show at the ongoing Winter Olympics 2022 in Beijing, China.

American-born Chinese athlete Zhu Yi has been facing intense criticism of Chinese social media platform Weibo after her disappointing show at the ongoing Winter Olympics 2022 in Beijing, China. Zhu Yi had given up her US citizenship and changed her name from Beverly Zu to Zhu Yi, in order to compete for the host nation at the Beijing Winter Games. In what was a forgetful debut for the 19-year-old, Zhu Yi fell twice during the women's short program team event at the Beijing Winter Games. The figure skater had started her performance amidst cheers at the Beijing Indoor Stadium, however, she was reduced to tears on the ice court by the end of it. Zhu failed to land a jump and fell down in the opening combination before messing up another jump in the short program. After falling twice, she managed a score o only 47.03 as China suffered a jolt in the team event. China slipped from the third spot to the fifth spot after Zhu's disappointing show. The 19-year-old was seen in tears after her debut performance but she was not spared by the Chinese public on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter. 'Zhu Yi has fallen' started trending on the social media platform soon after her disappointing show as the US-born figure skater was subjected to intense criticism with some even questioning her loyalty towards China. "Please let her learn Chinese first, before she talks about patriotism," wrote a Weibo user, as per Dailymail.UK. "Zhu Yi, how ridiculous your performance is! How dare you skate for China? You cannot even hold a candle to an amateur," said another. While there was immense backlash from all corners, some also offered support to the US-born Chinese figure skater and condemned the criticism directed towards her. Also Read: 'My bones are sticking out, I cry every day': Russian athlete claims food at Beijing Winter Olympics inedible Zhu was born in Los Angeles to Chinese parents and was named Beverly. She started figure skating at the tender age of seven and decided to change her name and give up her American citizenship after winning the novice division Figure Skating Championships in California, US. She started a new life in China with the name Zhu Yi and subsequently secured a spot in the Chinese figure skating team for the ongoing Beijing Winter Olympics 2022. She was clearly under pressure ahead of her debut at the Winter Games and said she was 'upset and embarrassed' with her performance. "I'm upset and a little embarrassed, I counted over and over again last night to see how many points I need to collect today to help my team advance," Zhu told the media, as per Dailymail.UK. "I guess I felt a lot of pressure because I know everybody in China was pretty surprised with the selection for ladies' singles and I just really wanted to show them what I was able to do but unfortunately I didn't," she added.

Zhu Yi, who gave up US citizenship to compete for China, slammed after poor show at Beijing Winter Olympics

Young Indian origin golfer Akshay Bhatia made heads turn when he clinched&nbsp;The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic on the Korn Ferry Tour at Sandals Emerald Bay in January 2022. The 19-year-old teenager became only the third-youngest (after Australia's Jason Day and Korea's Sungjae IM) to win on the Korn Ferry Tour.

Akshay, whose family originally belongs to New Delhi, India made his professional debut at the 2019 Sanderson Farms Championship in Jackson, Mississippi. Since then, his rise up the ladder has been evident and the youngster recently sat down for an exclusive interaction with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo where he dwelled&nbsp;on&nbsp;his journey so far,&nbsp;decision to forego college education and&nbsp;his mentor fellow left-hander and the great, Phil Mickelson.

Sharing thoughts on his Korn Ferry Tour win, Akshay opined, "Yeah. I think the journey has played&nbsp;a big part in the lead-up&nbsp;to that win. I struggled for a long time but I was also playing against the best players in the world. I had three-four opportunities to be on the PGA Tour last season but&nbsp;it just wasn't my time yet. I had to keep learning. But I've enjoyed it and this is my first Korn Ferry Tour. To kick off&nbsp;with a victory, it is a great start to the year. Playing with a lot of PGA Tour winners&nbsp;has been great. Being one of the youngest players to be on the tour, it is just amazing."

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Akshay shared his thoughts on the big decision of dropping out from college and turning into a professional at such a young age. He feels the gamble has paid off but there is always a chance to go back and complete his education if the opportunity&nbsp;arises. He lauded his family's support and said, "What I've learned from my parents is to be very family-oriented. It wasn't just my own discussion. It was a family discussion. I&nbsp;did a lot of things that some junior or ammeter golfers never did. For me, turning&nbsp;pro was to get my masters degree on the golf course. That's my college. My mom wanted me to go to school. Education is super important for me but it was just a little different for me. I was always ahead of the pack&nbsp;so I was ready to do it (turn professional). They supported me. It is something I'll never regret (forgoing education) and if I have time, I can always&nbsp;go back to school and get a degree."

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Not many get someone of the stature of&nbsp;Mickelson -- winner of&nbsp;45 events on the PGA Tour, including six major championships: three Masters titles (2004, 2006, 2010), two PGA Championships (2005, 2021)&nbsp;and one Open Championship -- to mentor them at such a young age. Akshay feels he is truly blessed to be around his company and emphasised&nbsp;how big a role the 51-year-old has played in his career so far.&nbsp;"It is a dream to be able to spend time with him. He has been really gracious with his time. He has helped me a lot. He has a lot of belief in me. He maybe sees a bit of himself in me (also winning as an ammeter). Amazing to have a mentor like that. He won a major last year. He knows what feelings you get at the biggest stage. Any time I have to text or call him, he will always respond. I am excited to team up with him on tour in the future."

Young Indian origin golfer Akshay Bhatia made heads turn when he clinched The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic on the Korn Ferry Tour at Sandals Emerald Bay in January 2022.

Young Indian origin golfer Akshay Bhatia made heads turn when he clinched The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic on the Korn Ferry Tour at Sandals Emerald Bay in January 2022. The 19-year-old teenager became only the third-youngest (after Australia's Jason Day and Korea's Sungjae IM) to win on the Korn Ferry Tour. Akshay, whose family originally belongs to New Delhi, India made his professional debut at the 2019 Sanderson Farms Championship in Jackson, Mississippi. Since then, his rise up the ladder has been evident and the youngster recently sat down for an exclusive interaction with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo where he dwelled on his journey so far, decision to forego college education and his mentor fellow left-hander and the great, Phil Mickelson. Sharing thoughts on his Korn Ferry Tour win, Akshay opined, "Yeah. I think the journey has played a big part in the lead-up to that win. I struggled for a long time but I was also playing against the best players in the world. I had three-four opportunities to be on the PGA Tour last season but it just wasn't my time yet. I had to keep learning. But I've enjoyed it and this is my first Korn Ferry Tour. To kick off with a victory, it is a great start to the year. Playing with a lot of PGA Tour winners has been great. Being one of the youngest players to be on the tour, it is just amazing." ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Aus Open 2022: Rafael Nadal is G.O.A.T, he's like a Jekyll of Hyde, says Indian coach Nandan Bal Akshay shared his thoughts on the big decision of dropping out from college and turning into a professional at such a young age. He feels the gamble has paid off but there is always a chance to go back and complete his education if the opportunity arises. He lauded his family's support and said, "What I've learned from my parents is to be very family-oriented. It wasn't just my own discussion. It was a family discussion. I did a lot of things that some junior or ammeter golfers never did. For me, turning pro was to get my masters degree on the golf course. That's my college. My mom wanted me to go to school. Education is super important for me but it was just a little different for me. I was always ahead of the pack so I was ready to do it (turn professional). They supported me. It is something I'll never regret (forgoing education) and if I have time, I can always go back to school and get a degree." × ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | 'Fans love Big Three': Aslan Karatsev on lack of support for Daniil Medvedev in Aus Open final Not many get someone of the stature of Mickelson -- winner of 45 events on the PGA Tour, including six major championships: three Masters titles (2004, 2006, 2010), two PGA Championships (2005, 2021) and one Open Championship -- to mentor them at such a young age. Akshay feels he is truly blessed to be around his company and emphasised how big a role the 51-year-old has played in his career so far. "It is a dream to be able to spend time with him. He has been really gracious with his time. He has helped me a lot. He has a lot of belief in me. He maybe sees a bit of himself in me (also winning as an ammeter). Amazing to have a mentor like that. He won a major last year. He knows what feelings you get at the biggest stage. Any time I have to text or call him, he will always respond. I am excited to team up with him on tour in the future."

EXCLUSIVE | 'He sees a bit of...' - Akshay Bhatia on mentor Phil Mickelson, forgoing college education

US President Joe Biden said that US forces had eliminated Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, a leader of ISIS in a raid in Syria. The raid was carried out under his direction, Biden said in a statement. He said that all Americans returned safely from the operation.

"Last night at my direction, U.S. military forces in the northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our Allies, and make the world a safer place. Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi—the leader of ISIS. All Americans have returned safely from the operation. I will deliver remarks to the American people later this morning. May God protect our troops," Biden said in the statement.

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Reports of the operation were doing rounds in media before the official statement from the president. It was initially thought that an Al Qaeda terrorist was the target.&nbsp;It has been reported that At least 13 people, including six children and four women were killed in the clashes. &nbsp;The raid targetted a house in the Atmeh area near the Turkish border.

After the initial reports, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby had confirmed that such a raid had taken place. Biden's statement was released after this.&nbsp;

"US Special Operations forces under the control of US&nbsp;Central Command conducted a counter-terrorism mission this evening in northwest Syria. The mission was successful," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in the statement earlier.

A US official said that "at the beginning of the operation the terrorist target exploded a bomb that killed him and members of his own family, including women and children."

&nbsp;“We all remember the gut wrenching stories, mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages, thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery, rape used a weapon of war,” and that “this horrible terrorist leader is no more,” Biden said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden said that US forces had eliminated Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, a leader of ISIS in a raid in Syria. The raid was carried out under his direction, Biden said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden said that US forces had eliminated Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, a leader of ISIS in a raid in Syria. The raid was carried out under his direction, Biden said in a statement. He said that all Americans returned safely from the operation. "Last night at my direction, U.S. military forces in the northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our Allies, and make the world a safer place. Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi—the leader of ISIS. All Americans have returned safely from the operation. I will deliver remarks to the American people later this morning. May God protect our troops," Biden said in the statement. × Reports of the operation were doing rounds in media before the official statement from the president. It was initially thought that an Al Qaeda terrorist was the target. It has been reported that At least 13 people, including six children and four women were killed in the clashes. The raid targetted a house in the Atmeh area near the Turkish border. After the initial reports, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby had confirmed that such a raid had taken place. Biden's statement was released after this. "US Special Operations forces under the control of US Central Command conducted a counter-terrorism mission this evening in northwest Syria. The mission was successful," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in the statement earlier. A US official said that "at the beginning of the operation the terrorist target exploded a bomb that killed him and members of his own family, including women and children." “We all remember the gut wrenching stories, mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages, thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery, rape used a weapon of war,” and that “this horrible terrorist leader is no more,” Biden said. (With inputs from agencies)

ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim exploded a bomb that killed him: US official

US special forces carried out a counter-terrorism mission in Syria on Thursday. The Pentagon said that the raid, carried out in northwest Syria was successful. Syrian sources were quoted by Reuters to say that the raid was aimed at an Al Queada-linked jihadist.

At least 13 people, including six children and four women were killed in the clashes, said Syrian rescue workers. The raid targetted a house in the Atmeh area near the Turkish border

"US&nbsp;Special Operations forces under the control of U.S. Central Command conducted a counter-terrorism mission this evening in northwest Syria. The mission was successful," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in a statement.

"There were no U.S. casualties. More information will be provided as it becomes available."

He did not identify the target.

A number of jihadist groups with links to al Qaeda operate in northwestern Syria, the last major bastion of rebels fighting President Bashar al-Assad in the decade-long Syrian war. Leaders of the Islamic State group have also hidden out in the area.

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Several rebel sources said they were almost certain the target was a leading jihadist, but could not be sure who.

Residents said helicopters landed and heavy gunfire and explosions were heard during the raid that began around midnight. U.S. forces used loud speakers to warn women and children to leave the area, they said.

A video taken by a resident and seen by Reuters showed the bodies of two apparently lifeless children and a man in the rubble of a building at the location.

A witness who lives nearby said he saw several bodies at the scene. "There was blood everywhere," he told Reuters. He added that one of the U.S. helicopters appeared to suffer a mechanical failure and was blown up by the U.S. forces.

A rebel official who declined to be named said the jihadist who was the apparent target of the raid was with his family at the time.

Witnesses said the raid ended with aircraft, believed to be helicopters, leaving the site but unidentified reconnaissance planes were still hovering in the area.

(With inputs from agencies)

US special forces carried out a counter-terrorism mission in Syria on Thursday. The Pentagon said that the raid, carried out in northwest Syria was successful. Syrian sources were quoted by Reuters to say that the raid was aimed at an Al Queada-linked jihadist.

US special forces carried out a counter-terrorism mission in Syria on Thursday. The Pentagon said that the raid, carried out in northwest Syria was successful. Syrian sources were quoted by Reuters to say that the raid was aimed at an Al Queada-linked jihadist. At least 13 people, including six children and four women were killed in the clashes, said Syrian rescue workers. The raid targetted a house in the Atmeh area near the Turkish border "US Special Operations forces under the control of U.S. Central Command conducted a counter-terrorism mission this evening in northwest Syria. The mission was successful," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in a statement. "There were no U.S. casualties. More information will be provided as it becomes available." He did not identify the target. A number of jihadist groups with links to al Qaeda operate in northwestern Syria, the last major bastion of rebels fighting President Bashar al-Assad in the decade-long Syrian war. Leaders of the Islamic State group have also hidden out in the area. Also Read | More than 3000 personnel face getting discharged as US Army tightens vaccine mandate rules Several rebel sources said they were almost certain the target was a leading jihadist, but could not be sure who. Residents said helicopters landed and heavy gunfire and explosions were heard during the raid that began around midnight. U.S. forces used loud speakers to warn women and children to leave the area, they said. A video taken by a resident and seen by Reuters showed the bodies of two apparently lifeless children and a man in the rubble of a building at the location. A witness who lives nearby said he saw several bodies at the scene. "There was blood everywhere," he told Reuters. He added that one of the U.S. helicopters appeared to suffer a mechanical failure and was blown up by the U.S. forces. A rebel official who declined to be named said the jihadist who was the apparent target of the raid was with his family at the time. Witnesses said the raid ended with aircraft, believed to be helicopters, leaving the site but unidentified reconnaissance planes were still hovering in the area. (With inputs from agencies)

US forces target Al-Qaeda jihadist in Syria raid, civillians killed in clashes

Pakistan has perhaps not faced such humiliation and embarrassment in recent times as when serious questions were raised over the ambassador-designate to the US, Masood Khan who is awaiting clearance from the US State Dept before his posting. Humiliation is a strong word of expression but it’s being used here with reference to the context in view of grave allegations levelled against the Pakistan diplomat for his close terror links.&nbsp;

Things got heated up in the last one week as Scott Perry, member of US Congress representing 10th district Pennsylvania, wrote a letter to President Joe Biden asking to reject the appointment of Masood Khan for his connections with the terror groups and terrorists. Exposing the ambassador designate’s profile, Perry listed out specific cases of complicity of the Pakistani diplomat. These inter alia include his proactive proximity to the dreaded terror outfit Hizbul Mujahdeen (HuM) in stark and unsettling terms.

Nomination of such a tainted Pakistani diplomat at the express behest of Prime Minister Imran Khan knowing fully well that Masood Khan is linked to the terrorists and had been encouraging terrorists to target the US reflects the malafides of the ambassador-designate and the extent of contempt that Pakistan holds for the US.&nbsp;

There is sufficient evidence to suggest that Masood Khan has been abetting youth in Kashmir for radicalization and exhorting them to take up arms to hit out at the security forces. There is also ample evidence on record that in 2017, Masood Khan had castigated the US for designating the HuM leader for sanctions terming them as unjustifiable.&nbsp;

Later in 2019, he collaborated with Fazlul Rahman Khalil by appearing with him on the issue of Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). It may be recalled that Fazlul Rahman is the founder of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen which has already been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation. This outfit and it’s affiliates had active links both with Osama bin Laden and Al Qaeda. Khalil was also a key member of International Islamic Front which had issued a fatwa in 1998 calling for terror offensives on the US.

Further, the allegations include that Masood Khan has perverse attachment to Islamic terrorism and is also supported by the most radicalised Jamat-e-Islami which is actively linked with Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT). The LeT has been linked with the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai.&nbsp;

The list of allegations against Masood is endless including the charge that in 2010, he had openly, and most indiscreetly called for the release of mass murderer Aafia Siddiqui and his acts are akin to the actions of a jihadist.

Many points against him surely do not qualify him to be an accepted candidate to become an ambassador in the US and this is well articulated in the letter from Congressman Scott Perry who is vehemently opposing Masood’s posting to Washington.

The letter addressed to President Biden has set the tone in the US government circles, media fraternity and the academia towards building up of a public opinion so that Masood’s appointment is shot down in the larger geo-political and security interests.&nbsp;

Concerned quarters, meanwhile, state that Masood, though a Pashtun by birth, was President of the Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir during which he systematically cultivated Kashmiri terrorists and became radicalised to support them.

This also led him to develop a pathological hatred for the US and, therefore, we see his hate speeches against the US which have never been politically correct or discreet. They were also conspicuously bereft of any diplomatic utterances and instead were more akin to jihadi speeches against the US which now Congressman Perry is bringing up with much hype.

US on its part, seems to be moving cautiously by being indecisive since November last year when Masood Khan’s appointment proposal reached Washington.&nbsp;

It looks like it’s paused for now. Perhaps the US is weighing all the options very carefully as it doesn’t want to dump Pakistan in a lurch specially to attempt and woo it away from the Chinese camp. Hence this delay.

However, it must be borne in mind that Masood Khan held two postings in Beijing. One as a full-fledged Pakistani Ambassador from 2008 to 2012 and earlier as a junior diplomat.&nbsp;

It’s also possible that he is doing things on prompting from China. China and Pakistan enjoy close ties. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) gets overriding priority and China.

Masood Khan’s case under reference may be a test case. US doesn’t seem to be in a hurry and is moving with abundant caution. In whichever case the Masood case, it seems, will not be so simple and easy for the US and Pakistan to put their bilateral ties on the rails which stand more impaired after the US pulled out from Afghanistan in August last year.

(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.)

Pakistan has perhaps not faced such humiliation and embarrassment in recent times as when serious questions were raised over the ambassador-designate to the US, Masood Khan who is awaiting clearance from the US State Dept before his posting.

Pakistan has perhaps not faced such humiliation and embarrassment in recent times as when serious questions were raised over the ambassador-designate to the US, Masood Khan who is awaiting clearance from the US State Dept before his posting. Humiliation is a strong word of expression but it’s being used here with reference to the context in view of grave allegations levelled against the Pakistan diplomat for his close terror links. Things got heated up in the last one week as Scott Perry, member of US Congress representing 10th district Pennsylvania, wrote a letter to President Joe Biden asking to reject the appointment of Masood Khan for his connections with the terror groups and terrorists. Exposing the ambassador designate’s profile, Perry listed out specific cases of complicity of the Pakistani diplomat. These inter alia include his proactive proximity to the dreaded terror outfit Hizbul Mujahdeen (HuM) in stark and unsettling terms. Nomination of such a tainted Pakistani diplomat at the express behest of Prime Minister Imran Khan knowing fully well that Masood Khan is linked to the terrorists and had been encouraging terrorists to target the US reflects the malafides of the ambassador-designate and the extent of contempt that Pakistan holds for the US. There is sufficient evidence to suggest that Masood Khan has been abetting youth in Kashmir for radicalization and exhorting them to take up arms to hit out at the security forces. There is also ample evidence on record that in 2017, Masood Khan had castigated the US for designating the HuM leader for sanctions terming them as unjustifiable. Later in 2019, he collaborated with Fazlul Rahman Khalil by appearing with him on the issue of Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). It may be recalled that Fazlul Rahman is the founder of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen which has already been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation. This outfit and it’s affiliates had active links both with Osama bin Laden and Al Qaeda. Khalil was also a key member of International Islamic Front which had issued a fatwa in 1998 calling for terror offensives on the US. Further, the allegations include that Masood Khan has perverse attachment to Islamic terrorism and is also supported by the most radicalised Jamat-e-Islami which is actively linked with Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT). The LeT has been linked with the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai. The list of allegations against Masood is endless including the charge that in 2010, he had openly, and most indiscreetly called for the release of mass murderer Aafia Siddiqui and his acts are akin to the actions of a jihadist. Many points against him surely do not qualify him to be an accepted candidate to become an ambassador in the US and this is well articulated in the letter from Congressman Scott Perry who is vehemently opposing Masood’s posting to Washington. The letter addressed to President Biden has set the tone in the US government circles, media fraternity and the academia towards building up of a public opinion so that Masood’s appointment is shot down in the larger geo-political and security interests. Concerned quarters, meanwhile, state that Masood, though a Pashtun by birth, was President of the Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir during which he systematically cultivated Kashmiri terrorists and became radicalised to support them. This also led him to develop a pathological hatred for the US and, therefore, we see his hate speeches against the US which have never been politically correct or discreet. They were also conspicuously bereft of any diplomatic utterances and instead were more akin to jihadi speeches against the US which now Congressman Perry is bringing up with much hype. US on its part, seems to be moving cautiously by being indecisive since November last year when Masood Khan’s appointment proposal reached Washington. It looks like it’s paused for now. Perhaps the US is weighing all the options very carefully as it doesn’t want to dump Pakistan in a lurch specially to attempt and woo it away from the Chinese camp. Hence this delay. However, it must be borne in mind that Masood Khan held two postings in Beijing. One as a full-fledged Pakistani Ambassador from 2008 to 2012 and earlier as a junior diplomat. It’s also possible that he is doing things on prompting from China. China and Pakistan enjoy close ties. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) gets overriding priority and China. Masood Khan’s case under reference may be a test case. US doesn’t seem to be in a hurry and is moving with abundant caution. In whichever case the Masood case, it seems, will not be so simple and easy for the US and Pakistan to put their bilateral ties on the rails which stand more impaired after the US pulled out from Afghanistan in August last year. (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.)

Masood Khan issue has caused humiliation for Pakistan

Russia and the United States faced off against each other in United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) session on Russia's troop buildup on Ukrainian border.&nbsp;

The US-requested meeting, which began around 1530 GMT, came with fears growing of an imminent incursion into Ukraine, despite Kremlin denials.

Russia has more than 100,000 of its troops stationed on Ukrainian border. On Monday, Russia contested the claim. Asking basis for reporting of such figure, Russia said that it had not cited any figure about the troop buildup.

Russia tried to block the 15-member Council from holding the meeting at all -- with its envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria" by pushing a Security Council debate.

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But Washington's UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Moscow's troop buildup justified the move, and Russia's blocking move was rejected with 10 out of 15 members backing Washington.

"This is the largest... mobilization of troops in Europe in decades," the ambassador said. "And as we speak, Russia is sending even more forces and arms to join them."

She told the Council Russia's military buildup had been paired with "aggressive rhetoric" as part of an escalation often seen from Russia when it seized Crimea in 2014.

US also alleged that Russia planned to raise 30,000 troops in Belarus, a Russian ally. Russian soldiers, a fraction of the number, have already reached Belarus. Both Russia and Belarus are saying that Russian troops withhold military drills with Belarus forces.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia and the United States faced off against each other in United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) session on Russia's troop buildup on Ukrainian border. The US-requested meeting, which began around 1530 GMT, came with fears growing of an imminent incursion into Ukraine, despite Kremlin denials.

Russia and the United States faced off against each other in United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) session on Russia's troop buildup on Ukrainian border. The US-requested meeting, which began around 1530 GMT, came with fears growing of an imminent incursion into Ukraine, despite Kremlin denials. Russia has more than 100,000 of its troops stationed on Ukrainian border. On Monday, Russia contested the claim. Asking basis for reporting of such figure, Russia said that it had not cited any figure about the troop buildup. Russia tried to block the 15-member Council from holding the meeting at all -- with its envoy to the UN Vasily Nebenzya accusing the United States of trying to "whip up hysteria" by pushing a Security Council debate. × But Washington's UN envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Moscow's troop buildup justified the move, and Russia's blocking move was rejected with 10 out of 15 members backing Washington. "This is the largest... mobilization of troops in Europe in decades," the ambassador said. "And as we speak, Russia is sending even more forces and arms to join them." She told the Council Russia's military buildup had been paired with "aggressive rhetoric" as part of an escalation often seen from Russia when it seized Crimea in 2014. US also alleged that Russia planned to raise 30,000 troops in Belarus, a Russian ally. Russian soldiers, a fraction of the number, have already reached Belarus. Both Russia and Belarus are saying that Russian troops withhold military drills with Belarus forces. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Who says we have 100,000 troops at border? Russia asks in UNSC

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday said Russia wanted "mutually respectful" relations with the US. Tensions between the two countries have been at the highest level over Ukraine crisis.

"We want good, equal, mutually respectful relations with the United States, like with every country in the world," Lavrov told Russia's Channel One.&nbsp;

"Learning from bitter experience, we do not want to remain in a position where our security is infringed daily," Lavrov added.

Russia currently has about 100,000 troops stationed at its border with Ukraine. Though Russia maintains that it has no intention of invading, such an eventually is considered to be within the realm of possibility. Russia had annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in a war in 2014.&nbsp;

Russia faces immense international pressure, especially from the West to withdraw forces.

Washington has warned that Russia could invade at any moment, while Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky called on his Western allies to avoid stirring "panic".&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-uk-to-offer-nato-military-deployment-in-europe-kyiv-urges-west-to-be-firm-in-talks-448866">Russia-Ukraine crisis: UK to offer NATO military deployment in Europe; Kyiv urges West to be 'firm' in talks</a>

Citing the encroachment of NATO near its eastern border, Russia has put forward security demands to Washington and the US-led military alliance.&nbsp;

These include a guarantee that NATO will not admit new members, in particular Ukraine, and the United States will not establish new miliary bases in ex-Soviet countries.&nbsp;

Lavrov said Sunday that NATO's line of defense "continues moving eastwards" and has come "very close" to Ukraine.

Lavrov added that ex-Soviet Ukraine "is not ready" to join the alliance and "would make no contribution to strengthening NATO security".&nbsp;

Following a flurry of diplomatic efforts, Washington and NATO presented Moscow with a written response to the proposals.&nbsp;

Russia said the replies, which were not made public, did not address its main concerns but did not rule out further talks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday said Russia wanted "mutually respectful" relations with the US. Tensions between the two countries have been at the highest level over Ukraine crisis.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday said Russia wanted "mutually respectful" relations with the US. Tensions between the two countries have been at the highest level over Ukraine crisis. "We want good, equal, mutually respectful relations with the United States, like with every country in the world," Lavrov told Russia's Channel One. "Learning from bitter experience, we do not want to remain in a position where our security is infringed daily," Lavrov added. Russia currently has about 100,000 troops stationed at its border with Ukraine. Though Russia maintains that it has no intention of invading, such an eventually is considered to be within the realm of possibility. Russia had annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in a war in 2014. Russia faces immense international pressure, especially from the West to withdraw forces. Washington has warned that Russia could invade at any moment, while Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky called on his Western allies to avoid stirring "panic". Also Read | Russia-Ukraine crisis: UK to offer NATO military deployment in Europe; Kyiv urges West to be 'firm' in talks Citing the encroachment of NATO near its eastern border, Russia has put forward security demands to Washington and the US-led military alliance. These include a guarantee that NATO will not admit new members, in particular Ukraine, and the United States will not establish new miliary bases in ex-Soviet countries. Lavrov said Sunday that NATO's line of defense "continues moving eastwards" and has come "very close" to Ukraine. Lavrov added that ex-Soviet Ukraine "is not ready" to join the alliance and "would make no contribution to strengthening NATO security". Following a flurry of diplomatic efforts, Washington and NATO presented Moscow with a written response to the proposals. Russia said the replies, which were not made public, did not address its main concerns but did not rule out further talks. (With inputs from agencies)

We want 'mutually respectful' ties with US, says Russian foreign minister 

Russia's military buildup near Ukraine has expanded to include supplies of blood along with other medical materials that would allow it to treat casualties, in yet another key indicator of Moscow's military readiness, three U.S. officials tell Reuters.

Current and former U.S. officials say concrete indicators -- like blood supplies -- are critical in determining whether Moscow would be prepared to carry out an invasion, if Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to do so.

The disclosure of the blood supplies by US&nbsp;officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, adds another piece of context to growing US&nbsp;warnings that Russia could be preparing for a new invasion of Ukraine as it masses more than 100,000 troops near its borders.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-ukraine-crisis-russian-troops-arrive-in-belarus-for-military-drills-448750">Amid ongoing Ukraine crisis, Russian troops arrive in Belarus for military drills</a>

These warnings have included President Joe Biden's prediction that a Russian assault was likely and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's remarks that Russia could launch a new attack on Ukraine at "very short notice."

The Pentagon has previously acknowledged the deployment of "medical support" as part of Russia's buildup. But the disclosure of blood supplies adds a level of detail that experts say is critical to determining Russian military readiness.

"It doesn't guarantee that there's going to be another attack, but you would not execute another attack unless you have that in hand," said Ben Hodges, a retired U.S. lieutenant general now with the Center for European Policy Analysis research institute.

The Russian Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a written request for comment

Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar denied the information.

"This information is not true. Such 'news' is an element of information and psychological war. The purpose of such information is to spread panic and fear in our society," she said on Facebook.

On Friday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy criticised a "feeling abroad" that a war had already started. "We don't need this panic," he told reporters in Kyiv.

A White House spokesperson did not immediately comment on any Russian movement of blood supplies but noted repeated public U.S. warnings about Russian military readiness.

The Pentagon declined to discuss intelligence assessments.

SECURITY DEMANDS

The three U.S. officials who spoke about the blood supplies declined to say specifically when the United States detected their movement to formations near Ukraine. However, two of them said it was within recent weeks.

Russian officials have repeatedly denied planning to invade. But Moscow says it feels menaced by Kyiv's growing ties with the West.

Eight years ago it seized Crimea and backed separatist forces who took control of large parts of eastern Ukraine.

Russia's security demands, presented in December, include an end to further NATO enlargement, barring Ukraine from ever joining and pulling back the alliance's forces and weaponry from eastern European countries that joined after the Cold War.

Putin said on Friday the United States and NATO had not addressed Russia's main security demands in their standoff over Ukraine but that Moscow was ready to keep talking.

Biden has said he will not send U.S. or allied troops to fight Russia in Ukraine but told Ukraine's Zelenskiy in a phone call on Thursday that Washington and its allies stand ready to respond decisively if Russia invades the former Soviet state, the White House said.

The United States and its allies have said Russia will face tough economic sanctions https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/how-financial-western-sanctions-might-target-russia-2022-01-19 if it attacks Ukraine.

Western countries have already imposed repeated rounds of economic sanctions since Russian troops seized and annexed Ukraine's Crimea peninsula in 2014.

But such moves have had scant impact on Russian policy, with Moscow, Europe's main energy supplier, calculating that the West would stop short of steps serious enough to interfere with gas exports.

Russia's military buildup near Ukraine has expanded to include supplies of blood along with other medical materials that would allow it to treat casualties, in yet another key indicator of Moscow's military readiness, three U.

Russia's military buildup near Ukraine has expanded to include supplies of blood along with other medical materials that would allow it to treat casualties, in yet another key indicator of Moscow's military readiness, three U.S. officials tell Reuters. Current and former U.S. officials say concrete indicators -- like blood supplies -- are critical in determining whether Moscow would be prepared to carry out an invasion, if Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to do so. The disclosure of the blood supplies by US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, adds another piece of context to growing US warnings that Russia could be preparing for a new invasion of Ukraine as it masses more than 100,000 troops near its borders. Also Read | Amid ongoing Ukraine crisis, Russian troops arrive in Belarus for military drills These warnings have included President Joe Biden's prediction that a Russian assault was likely and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's remarks that Russia could launch a new attack on Ukraine at "very short notice." The Pentagon has previously acknowledged the deployment of "medical support" as part of Russia's buildup. But the disclosure of blood supplies adds a level of detail that experts say is critical to determining Russian military readiness. "It doesn't guarantee that there's going to be another attack, but you would not execute another attack unless you have that in hand," said Ben Hodges, a retired U.S. lieutenant general now with the Center for European Policy Analysis research institute. The Russian Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a written request for comment Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar denied the information. "This information is not true. Such 'news' is an element of information and psychological war. The purpose of such information is to spread panic and fear in our society," she said on Facebook. On Friday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy criticised a "feeling abroad" that a war had already started. "We don't need this panic," he told reporters in Kyiv. A White House spokesperson did not immediately comment on any Russian movement of blood supplies but noted repeated public U.S. warnings about Russian military readiness. The Pentagon declined to discuss intelligence assessments. SECURITY DEMANDS The three U.S. officials who spoke about the blood supplies declined to say specifically when the United States detected their movement to formations near Ukraine. However, two of them said it was within recent weeks. Russian officials have repeatedly denied planning to invade. But Moscow says it feels menaced by Kyiv's growing ties with the West. Eight years ago it seized Crimea and backed separatist forces who took control of large parts of eastern Ukraine. Russia's security demands, presented in December, include an end to further NATO enlargement, barring Ukraine from ever joining and pulling back the alliance's forces and weaponry from eastern European countries that joined after the Cold War. Putin said on Friday the United States and NATO had not addressed Russia's main security demands in their standoff over Ukraine but that Moscow was ready to keep talking. Biden has said he will not send U.S. or allied troops to fight Russia in Ukraine but told Ukraine's Zelenskiy in a phone call on Thursday that Washington and its allies stand ready to respond decisively if Russia invades the former Soviet state, the White House said. The United States and its allies have said Russia will face tough economic sanctions https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/how-financial-western-sanctions-might-target-russia-2022-01-19 if it attacks Ukraine. Western countries have already imposed repeated rounds of economic sanctions since Russian troops seized and annexed Ukraine's Crimea peninsula in 2014. But such moves have had scant impact on Russian policy, with Moscow, Europe's main energy supplier, calculating that the West would stop short of steps serious enough to interfere with gas exports.

Russia moves blood supplies near Ukraine, adding to US concern, officials say

There is a "low to medium" risk that Russia will invade Ukraine over the next few weeks, the top U.S. general in Europe said on Thursday, in the first such military assessment amid mounting concern about Russian troop movements toward Ukraine's borders.

Air Force General Tod Wolters declined to explain the intelligence driving his assessment, which does not suggest that the U.S. military expects a Russian invasion at this point, but he is not ruling one out or playing down the risk.

But, in testimony before a House of Representatives committee he later suggested his view about the risks in the coming weeks and months was at least partly based on the disposition of Russian forces.

The Pentagon has declined to detail its assessment on the size and composition of those troops, referring reporters to Moscow. However, the White House disclosed last week that Russia had more troops on Ukraine's eastern border than at any time since 2014, when it annexed Crimea and backed separatist territory seizures.

Asked by a lawmaker on the Armed Services Committee to estimate the chances of an invasion in the next few weeks, Wolters said: "Low to medium."

Pressed by another lawmaker to explain whether that risk would change after that period, Wolters kept his cards close, saying: "The answer is, it depends."

"And I would have to take each and every second of the day from this point till tomorrow to give you a different answer," said Wolters, who is both head of the U.S. military's European Command and is NATO's supreme allied commander Europe.

If the current trajectory stayed the same, however, Wolters estimated the risk of an invasion could decrease.

"My sense is, with the trend that I see right now, that the likelihood of an occurrence will start to wane," he told Congress members.

Ukraine and Russia have traded blame over a spike in violence in the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian troops have battled Russian-backed separatist forces in a conflict that Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014.

Tensions over a buildup of Russian troops on Ukraine's eastern border have pushed up the cost of raising domestic debt and prompted the government to accelerate efforts to secure more International Monetary Fund loans, an adviser to Ukraine's president told Reuters on Thursday.

The United States sought to impose costs on Russia on Thursday by imposing a broad array of sanctions, including curbs to its sovereign debt market, to punish it for interfering in last year's U.S. presidential election, cyber-hacking, bullying Ukraine and other alleged "malign" actions.

Laura Cooper, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia, pointed to the sanctions and described the conflict in eastern Ukraine as "a hot war right now."

"Since January, we've already had 30 Ukrainian service members killed in the east," Cooper testified, speaking alongside Wolters.

Still, both Cooper and Walters did not request additional authorities to support Ukrainian forces, which started receiving anti-tank weapons and other weaponry in recent years from Washington.

"I think we have the right authorities and we have been able to provide the right lethal assistance, again, both on the land domain and the maritime domain at this point," Cooper said.

There is a "low to medium" risk that Russia will invade Ukraine over the next few weeks, the top U.S. general in Europe said on Thursday, in the first such military assessment amid mounting concern about Russian troop movements toward Ukraine's borders.

There is a "low to medium" risk that Russia will invade Ukraine over the next few weeks, the top U.S. general in Europe said on Thursday, in the first such military assessment amid mounting concern about Russian troop movements toward Ukraine's borders. Air Force General Tod Wolters declined to explain the intelligence driving his assessment, which does not suggest that the U.S. military expects a Russian invasion at this point, but he is not ruling one out or playing down the risk. But, in testimony before a House of Representatives committee he later suggested his view about the risks in the coming weeks and months was at least partly based on the disposition of Russian forces. The Pentagon has declined to detail its assessment on the size and composition of those troops, referring reporters to Moscow. However, the White House disclosed last week that Russia had more troops on Ukraine's eastern border than at any time since 2014, when it annexed Crimea and backed separatist territory seizures. Asked by a lawmaker on the Armed Services Committee to estimate the chances of an invasion in the next few weeks, Wolters said: "Low to medium." Pressed by another lawmaker to explain whether that risk would change after that period, Wolters kept his cards close, saying: "The answer is, it depends." "And I would have to take each and every second of the day from this point till tomorrow to give you a different answer," said Wolters, who is both head of the U.S. military's European Command and is NATO's supreme allied commander Europe. If the current trajectory stayed the same, however, Wolters estimated the risk of an invasion could decrease. "My sense is, with the trend that I see right now, that the likelihood of an occurrence will start to wane," he told Congress members. Ukraine and Russia have traded blame over a spike in violence in the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian troops have battled Russian-backed separatist forces in a conflict that Kyiv says has killed 14,000 people since 2014. Tensions over a buildup of Russian troops on Ukraine's eastern border have pushed up the cost of raising domestic debt and prompted the government to accelerate efforts to secure more International Monetary Fund loans, an adviser to Ukraine's president told Reuters on Thursday. The United States sought to impose costs on Russia on Thursday by imposing a broad array of sanctions, including curbs to its sovereign debt market, to punish it for interfering in last year's U.S. presidential election, cyber-hacking, bullying Ukraine and other alleged "malign" actions. Laura Cooper, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia, pointed to the sanctions and described the conflict in eastern Ukraine as "a hot war right now." "Since January, we've already had 30 Ukrainian service members killed in the east," Cooper testified, speaking alongside Wolters. Still, both Cooper and Walters did not request additional authorities to support Ukrainian forces, which started receiving anti-tank weapons and other weaponry in recent years from Washington. "I think we have the right authorities and we have been able to provide the right lethal assistance, again, both on the land domain and the maritime domain at this point," Cooper said.

Low to medium risk of Russian invasion of Ukraine in next few weeks: US general

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed "real concerns" about Russia's statements and actions on Ukraine. He was speaking with reporters on a visit to Senegal.

"We have real concerns about Russia's unusual military activity on the border with Ukraine. We have real concerns about some of the rhetoric we have been seeing and hearing from Russia as well as in social media," Blinken told reporters on a visit to Senegal.

He declined to clearly say whether US intelligence believed Russian President Putin was making plans to seize land from Ukraine.

"We don't know what President Putin's intentions are. But we do know what's happened in the past. We know the playbook of trying to cite some illusory provocation from Ukraine or any other country and using that as an excuse for what Russia plans to do all along," Blinken said.&nbsp;

He was referring to the crisis that erupted in 2014 when Russia, following the toppling of a Ukrainian government that had resisted moves towards the West, seized the Crimea peninsula and backed separatists waging a conflict in Ukraine's largely Russian-speaking east.

Putin on Thursday accused Western nations of escalation the Ukraine conflict by holding drills in the Black Sea and flying bombers near its borders.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed "real concerns" about Russia's statements and actions on Ukraine. He was speaking with reporters on a visit to Senegal.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed "real concerns" about Russia's statements and actions on Ukraine. He was speaking with reporters on a visit to Senegal. "We have real concerns about Russia's unusual military activity on the border with Ukraine. We have real concerns about some of the rhetoric we have been seeing and hearing from Russia as well as in social media," Blinken told reporters on a visit to Senegal. He declined to clearly say whether US intelligence believed Russian President Putin was making plans to seize land from Ukraine. "We don't know what President Putin's intentions are. But we do know what's happened in the past. We know the playbook of trying to cite some illusory provocation from Ukraine or any other country and using that as an excuse for what Russia plans to do all along," Blinken said. He was referring to the crisis that erupted in 2014 when Russia, following the toppling of a Ukrainian government that had resisted moves towards the West, seized the Crimea peninsula and backed separatists waging a conflict in Ukraine's largely Russian-speaking east. Putin on Thursday accused Western nations of escalation the Ukraine conflict by holding drills in the Black Sea and flying bombers near its borders. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken expresses 'real concerns' over Russia on Ukraine

In a fresh stern warning to Russia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Russia must ease pressure on Ukraine if it wants progress. He renewed the warning of 'massive consequences' if Russia invades Ukraine.

Russia and the US are going to hold talks next week in Geneva over the Ukraine issue.

If the talks are "going to show real progress, that will require de-escalation," Blinken told a joint news conference with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

Pointing to Russia's hopes for progress in areas such as arms control, Blinken said, "It's very hard to make actual progress in any of these areas in an atmosphere of escalation and threat with a gun pointed to Ukraine's head."

"Russia should be in no doubt that further military aggression against Ukraine would have massive consequences and severe costs in response," Blinken said.

Baerbock, paying her first visit to Washington since taking office, agreed on the need for "severe consequences" if Russia attacks Ukraine.

The United States and Germany have been at loggerheads for years over Nord Stream 2, which is set to open and ship Russian gas directly to Europe's largest economy.

"From our perspective, it's very hard to see gas flowing through that pipeline, to become operational, if Russia renews its aggression," Blinken said.

Drawing criticism at home, President Joe Biden's administration has declined to impose sanctions over Nord Stream, saying it was virtually complete.

But the administration last year reached an agreement in which Germany promised aid to Ukraine and warned Russia against using the pipeline for geopolitical advantage.

Baerbock, asked if Germany was ready to cancel the pipeline, said only that the new government backed last year's agreement with the United States.

The new government "agreed that we take effective measures together with our European partners should Russia use energy as a weapon," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a fresh stern warning to Russia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Russia must ease pressure on Ukraine if it wants progress. He renewed the warning of 'massive consequences' if Russia invades Ukraine.

In a fresh stern warning to Russia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Russia must ease pressure on Ukraine if it wants progress. He renewed the warning of 'massive consequences' if Russia invades Ukraine. Russia and the US are going to hold talks next week in Geneva over the Ukraine issue. If the talks are "going to show real progress, that will require de-escalation," Blinken told a joint news conference with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. Pointing to Russia's hopes for progress in areas such as arms control, Blinken said, "It's very hard to make actual progress in any of these areas in an atmosphere of escalation and threat with a gun pointed to Ukraine's head." "Russia should be in no doubt that further military aggression against Ukraine would have massive consequences and severe costs in response," Blinken said. Baerbock, paying her first visit to Washington since taking office, agreed on the need for "severe consequences" if Russia attacks Ukraine. The United States and Germany have been at loggerheads for years over Nord Stream 2, which is set to open and ship Russian gas directly to Europe's largest economy. "From our perspective, it's very hard to see gas flowing through that pipeline, to become operational, if Russia renews its aggression," Blinken said. Drawing criticism at home, President Joe Biden's administration has declined to impose sanctions over Nord Stream, saying it was virtually complete. But the administration last year reached an agreement in which Germany promised aid to Ukraine and warned Russia against using the pipeline for geopolitical advantage. Baerbock, asked if Germany was ready to cancel the pipeline, said only that the new government backed last year's agreement with the United States. The new government "agreed that we take effective measures together with our European partners should Russia use energy as a weapon," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

No progress with Russia so long as 'gun to Ukraine's head': Blinken

In a major development, the US has approved requests by Baltic countries to ship US-made weapons to Ukraine as fears of Russian invasion mount, as per officials.

A State Department official in Berlin, where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was holding talks on Ukraine, said that the United States was "expediting authorised transfers of US-origin equipment from other allies."

The news has broken just hours after US President Joe Biden commented about Putin saying "my guess is he will move in". The words of US President are being interpreted by some as an indication of an increased possibility of a Russian attack on Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-costs-my-guess-is-he-will-move-in-says-biden-on-putins-ukraine-invasion-plan-446058">'Severe costs': My guess is he will move in, says Biden on Putin's Ukraine invasion plan</a>

Russia currently has tens of thousands of its troops stationed along its border with Ukraine. Though in past, Russia has said that it would not invade Ukraine, the Russian statements about Ukraine being a threat to Russia's security are seen as an attempt to create a pretext for invasion. Ukraine, part of the erstwhile Soviet Union has already lost the Crimean peninsula which was annexed by Russia in 2014.

Russia has made it abundantly clear that it is dead against Ukraine joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Ukraine has till recently shown eagerness to join the military alliance which, at the time of its formation, was aimed against the Russian threat perceived by western powers.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major development, the US has approved requests by Baltic countries to ship US-made weapons to Ukraine as fears of Russian invasion mount, as per officials.

In a major development, the US has approved requests by Baltic countries to ship US-made weapons to Ukraine as fears of Russian invasion mount, as per officials. A State Department official in Berlin, where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was holding talks on Ukraine, said that the United States was "expediting authorised transfers of US-origin equipment from other allies." The news has broken just hours after US President Joe Biden commented about Putin saying "my guess is he will move in". The words of US President are being interpreted by some as an indication of an increased possibility of a Russian attack on Ukraine. Also Read | 'Severe costs': My guess is he will move in, says Biden on Putin's Ukraine invasion plan Russia currently has tens of thousands of its troops stationed along its border with Ukraine. Though in past, Russia has said that it would not invade Ukraine, the Russian statements about Ukraine being a threat to Russia's security are seen as an attempt to create a pretext for invasion. Ukraine, part of the erstwhile Soviet Union has already lost the Crimean peninsula which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Russia has made it abundantly clear that it is dead against Ukraine joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Ukraine has till recently shown eagerness to join the military alliance which, at the time of its formation, was aimed against the Russian threat perceived by western powers. (With inputs from agencies)

USA approves Baltic request to send US-made weapons to Ukraine

A senior US official said on Sunday that the US will announce its "next steps" over Ukraine crisis. The statement came after &nbsp;intense diplomacy failed to ease the threat of a new conflict over Ukraine

Amid mounting fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, national security advisor Jake Sullivan said the US was "ready either way."&nbsp;

"We're in close touch with our allies and partners, including the Ukrainians," the top advisor to President Joe Biden told CBS. "We're coordinating closely on next steps. And we'll have more to share in terms of the next steps into the diplomacy early next week."

"But the key point here is that we're ready either way. If Russia wants to move forward with diplomacy, we are absolutely ready to do that in lockstep with our allies and partners.

"If Russia wants to go down the path of invasion and escalation, we're ready for that too, with a robust response."

Russia has massed tens of thousands of troops along its border with Ukraine. Though Russia claims that it does not plan to invade Ukraine, tensions are high.

The Kremlin again insisted on Sunday that it did not want to lead "a military action," even while warning of unnamed "counter actions" if NATO rejects Moscow's demands to lessen its military presence in Eastern Europe.

Meantime, officials in Kiev said Sunday they had proof that Moscow was involved in what they called a "massive cyberattack on government websites" in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The Kremlin has denied any involvement.

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior US official said on Sunday that the US will announce its "next steps" over Ukraine crisis. The statement came after intense diplomacy failed to ease the threat of a new conflict over Ukraine Amid mounting fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, national security advisor Jake Sullivan said the US was "ready either way.

A senior US official said on Sunday that the US will announce its "next steps" over Ukraine crisis. The statement came after intense diplomacy failed to ease the threat of a new conflict over Ukraine Amid mounting fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, national security advisor Jake Sullivan said the US was "ready either way." "We're in close touch with our allies and partners, including the Ukrainians," the top advisor to President Joe Biden told CBS. "We're coordinating closely on next steps. And we'll have more to share in terms of the next steps into the diplomacy early next week." "But the key point here is that we're ready either way. If Russia wants to move forward with diplomacy, we are absolutely ready to do that in lockstep with our allies and partners. "If Russia wants to go down the path of invasion and escalation, we're ready for that too, with a robust response." Russia has massed tens of thousands of troops along its border with Ukraine. Though Russia claims that it does not plan to invade Ukraine, tensions are high. The Kremlin again insisted on Sunday that it did not want to lead "a military action," even while warning of unnamed "counter actions" if NATO rejects Moscow's demands to lessen its military presence in Eastern Europe. Meantime, officials in Kiev said Sunday they had proof that Moscow was involved in what they called a "massive cyberattack on government websites" in Ukraine. The Kremlin has denied any involvement. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: US 'ready either way', says Biden aide

The United States has sent a written response to Russia's demands in eastern Europe. While it offered a "principled and pragmatic evaluation" of the Kremlin's concerns, the US has upheld North Atlantic Treaty Organisation's (NATO) 'open-door' policy. This policy refers to NATO's openness to new member countries. Ukraine is keen to be part of NATO, something Russia is fiercely against.

The written response to Russia's demands was delivered in person by US ambassador in Moscow.

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Russia has demanded NATO pull back troops and weapons from eastern Europe and bar its neighbour Ukraine, a former Soviet state, from ever joining. Washington and its NATO allies reject that position but say they are ready to discuss other topics such as arms control and confidence-building measures.

"Putting things in writing is ... a good way to make sure we're as precise as possible, and the Russians understand our positions, our ideas, as clearly as possible. Right now, the document is with them and the ball is in their court," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Whether President Vladimir Putin is prepared to accept Washington and its allies' agenda will determine the next phase of the crisis, in which Moscow has massed around 100,000 troops near the border with Ukraine while denying it plans to invade.

NATO says it is putting forces on standby and reinforcing eastern Europe with more ships and fighter jets, while the US, Britain and others are providing weapons to help Ukraine defend against Russia's much larger army.

Asked how much time Russia would need to study NATO's response, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Interfax news agency: "We will read it. Study it. The partners studied our project for almost a month and a half."

Dialogue

In Paris, diplomats from Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany held more than eight hours of talks on ending a separatist conflict in eastern Ukraine, part of the wider crisis between Moscow and Kyiv that risks becoming a full-scale war.

The so-called "Normandy" talks were a good signal from Russia and a step toward defusing broader tensions, though major differences remained with further talks planned in Berlin in two weeks, a French official said.

Western-Russian differences were on full display on Tuesday with U.S. President Joe Biden saying he would consider imposing sanctions personally on Putin if he invades Ukraine, part of an attempt by Washington to convince Moscow that any new action against Ukraine would bring massive costs.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has sent a written response to Russia's demands in eastern Europe. While it offered a "principled and pragmatic evaluation" of the Kremlin's concerns, the US has upheld North Atlantic Treaty Organisation's (NATO) 'open-door' policy.

The United States has sent a written response to Russia's demands in eastern Europe. While it offered a "principled and pragmatic evaluation" of the Kremlin's concerns, the US has upheld North Atlantic Treaty Organisation's (NATO) 'open-door' policy. This policy refers to NATO's openness to new member countries. Ukraine is keen to be part of NATO, something Russia is fiercely against. The written response to Russia's demands was delivered in person by US ambassador in Moscow. × Russia has demanded NATO pull back troops and weapons from eastern Europe and bar its neighbour Ukraine, a former Soviet state, from ever joining. Washington and its NATO allies reject that position but say they are ready to discuss other topics such as arms control and confidence-building measures. "Putting things in writing is ... a good way to make sure we're as precise as possible, and the Russians understand our positions, our ideas, as clearly as possible. Right now, the document is with them and the ball is in their court," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Whether President Vladimir Putin is prepared to accept Washington and its allies' agenda will determine the next phase of the crisis, in which Moscow has massed around 100,000 troops near the border with Ukraine while denying it plans to invade. NATO says it is putting forces on standby and reinforcing eastern Europe with more ships and fighter jets, while the US, Britain and others are providing weapons to help Ukraine defend against Russia's much larger army. Asked how much time Russia would need to study NATO's response, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Interfax news agency: "We will read it. Study it. The partners studied our project for almost a month and a half." Dialogue In Paris, diplomats from Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany held more than eight hours of talks on ending a separatist conflict in eastern Ukraine, part of the wider crisis between Moscow and Kyiv that risks becoming a full-scale war. The so-called "Normandy" talks were a good signal from Russia and a step toward defusing broader tensions, though major differences remained with further talks planned in Berlin in two weeks, a French official said. Western-Russian differences were on full display on Tuesday with U.S. President Joe Biden saying he would consider imposing sanctions personally on Putin if he invades Ukraine, part of an attempt by Washington to convince Moscow that any new action against Ukraine would bring massive costs. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: US responds to Russian demands, upholds NATO's 'open-door' policy

President Joe Biden and his legal team have spent a year preparing for this moment: the chance to make good on his pledge to name the first Black woman to the Supreme Court at a time of continuing racial reckoning for the country.

The decision by Justice Stephen G. Breyer to retire will give Biden his most high-profile opportunity since taking office to reshape the federal judiciary, having already nominated dozens of district and appeals court judges from a range of racial, ethnic and legal backgrounds.

His promise also underscores how much Black women have struggled to become part of a very small pool of elite judges in the nation’s higher federal courts. Speculation on Wednesday focused on a rarefied group of well-credentialed Black women who have elite educations and experience on the bench.

The short list included Ketanji Brown Jackson, a 51-year-old judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit who graduated from Harvard Law School and clerked for Breyer, and Leondra R. Kruger, a 45-year-old justice on the California Supreme Court who graduated from Yale Law School and clerked for former Justice John Paul Stevens.

J. Michelle Childs, 55, a little-known U.S. District Court judge in South Carolina whom Biden recently nominated for an appeals court, is also seen as a potential contender. One of Biden’s top congressional allies, Rep. James E. Clyburn of South Carolina, told Biden during the presidential campaign that he believed she should be appointed, in part because she came from a blue-collar background, another underrepresented group among federal judges.

Jackson and Kruger attended Ivy League law schools, unlike Childs, who attended the University of South Carolina. And while there are some differences in the women’s backgrounds and experience, they are united in being among a relative handful of Black women who have the kind of credentials normally considered qualifications for the Supreme Court.

The first Black woman to serve as a federal appeals court judge — an experience that in the modern era is usually a key credential in becoming a justice — was appointed by President Gerald R. Ford in 1975. By the time Biden took office more than 40 years later, only seven more had served in such a position.

“If you just look at the raw numbers, it’s a telling and a sobering statistic,” said Leslie D. Davis, the chief executive of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms. “That makes it clear that we must do better.”

Biden has said he hopes the diversity he has brought to the high ranks of the federal government will be a centerpiece of his legacy. In addition to his record on judgeships, his decision to pick Kamala Harris as his running mate during the 2020 campaign led to her becoming the first Black woman to serve as vice president.

Half of Biden’s first 16 nominees for federal appeals courts have been Black women — as many as all previous presidents combined had appointed. That emphasis has attracted scrutiny from across the ideological spectrum. For Davis, the important point of comparison is how few Black women had previously been appointed to the federal bench.

“It’s a story that Black women’s voices have not been appreciated,” she said, “that their perspectives have not been valued, and their voices have not been heard.”

But conservatives like the National Review legal commentator Ed Whelan have pointed out that the number of Black women Biden has nominated is strikingly disproportionate to the available pool of Black women with law degrees.

According to a 2021 profile of the legal profession by the American Bar Association, just 4.7% of American lawyers are Black and 37% of lawyers are female. The report did not break out Black women in particular, but the implication is that roughly 2% of American lawyers are both Black and female.

“By Biden’s declared standard of demographic diversity, his first year of judicial nominations has clearly been a remarkable success,” Whelan wrote this month, calling Biden’s record on appointing Black women “extraordinary” while also taking “some delight in noting” that liberal white males, with just two appellate nomination slots so far, were “the big losers.”

Biden made his promise to name a Black woman to the Supreme Court at a debate in February 2020, just days before facing his Democratic rivals in the South Carolina primary, where Black people make up a large portion of the party’s voters. At the time, his campaign was struggling amid losses in two of the early presidential contests.

“I’m looking forward to making sure there’s a Black woman on the Supreme Court to make sure we in fact get everyone represented,” Biden said that night.

The promise helped Biden secure the support of Clyburn just days before the party’s contest in South Carolina.

“I have three daughters,” Clyburn told Bloomberg. “I think I would be less than a good dad if I did not say to the president-to-be, this is an issue that is simmering in the African American community, that Black women think they have as much right to sit on the Supreme Court as any other women, and up to that point none had been considered.”

Biden went on to win the South Carolina primary, proving the durability of his support among Black voters and setting in motion a string of victories on Super Tuesday a short time later.

Biden's Supreme Court selection will take place in a country still feeling the reverberations of the police killing of George Floyd in 2020 and subsequent mass protests over racial justice.

It also would come as the conservative-dominated court agreed this week to hear cases challenging race-conscious college admissions programs, raising the possibility that it may ban affirmative action policies aimed at maintaining racial diversity.

Biden’s political support has been especially strong among Black women. New York Times exit polling data from the 2020 election showed that while they made up just 8% of the electorate, they were Biden’s most lopsided supporters: 90% of Black female voters cast their ballots for him.

And in Georgia, Biden’s win was followed by Democrats sweeping a pair of crucial runoff elections for Senate seats that gave the party razor-thin control of the Senate — and with it the ability to confirm judges without needing any Republican support.

Several factors went into those narrow wins that flipped the state blue, but one was that a group of Black female organizers — most famously Stacey Abrams, the former candidate for governor who founded a voter registration group called the New Georgia Project — had been working to register hundreds of thousands new voters and encourage them to turn out.

For Democrats, maintaining enthusiastic support among Black voters, and especially Black women, may be critical in November’s midterm elections. Democratic activists urged Biden on Wednesday not to back down from his promise.

“There would be little to no rationale for President Biden to miss this opportunity,” Aimee Allison, the president of She the People, a liberal advocacy group, said in a statement. “It is and could be a defining moment for his presidency.”

Polls show Democrats trailing in their efforts to keep control of the House and the Senate, and Biden has had a rocky first year, in part because the Senate filibuster rule means Republicans can block much of his agenda, like passage of a social spending bill and an expansion of federal protections for voting rights.

But since the Senate abolished the filibuster for judges — Democrats did so for lower and appellate court judges in 2013, and Republicans did so for Supreme Court justices in 2017 — a party that controls both the White House and the Senate by any margin can appoint life-tenured federal judges, including to fill any vacancies among the 179 federal appellate seats.

In April, when Biden announced his first three appeals court nominees, all three were Black women with Ivy League educations, including Jackson. Two more of the next 10 appellate judges he appointed are also Black women. And of his six appellate nominees still pending before the Senate, three are Black women.

Biden’s decision to use his power to place numerous Black women on the bench — as well as in district court judgeships and high-profile roles in the executive branch — is transformative considering the many decades during which they have rarely exercised power in the legal system.

The history of Black female judges mirrors the larger story of African Americans since the Civil War, according to a 2010 article in the Howard Law Journal by Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, who is the chief judge of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals.

“Black women judges came to the ‘judicial’ table much later than Black men (by more than 80 years) and also much later than white women (by almost 60 years),” she wrote in the article, “Black Women Judges: The Historical Journey of Black Women to the Nation’s Highest Courts.”

New York City did not have its first Black female judge until 1939, when Jane Matilda Bolin was appointed to the Domestic Relations Court, Blackburne-Rigsby wrote, adding that when the city’s mayor, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, appointed Bolin, he first consulted her husband — a sign of the times and of the limits placed on Black women in the court system.

Blackburne-Rigsby declined to comment Wednesday. But in her article, she sounded a note of caution about viewing that demographic’s slow rise to judicial power as a matter of numbers alone.

“Being both Black and female brings an important additional voice to the deliberative process,” she wrote, “but that voice is varied because there is no singular ‘Black woman’ perspective.”

Even after the civil rights movement in the 1960s, which included President Lyndon B. Johnson’s appointment of Thurgood Marshall as the first Black Supreme Court justice in 1967, Black women’s access to the levers of judicial power remained limited.

In 1966, Johnson had also appointed the first Black female federal judge — Constance Baker Motley, whom he placed in the Southern District of New York.

And in the years that followed, Motley was sometimes mentioned as a potential future Supreme Court justice, said Tomiko Brown-Nagin, a Harvard legal historian who published a biography of the judge this week, “Civil Rights Queen.”

But Brown-Nagin, who is also the dean of the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, said that while Motley was “eminently qualified” for elevation, her political window closed: As a former civil rights lawyer, she was seen as a liberal, and from 1969 until 1993, there was no Supreme Court vacancy while a Democrat was president.

“This appointment has been a long time coming,” Brown-Nagin said.

President Joe Biden and his legal team have spent a year preparing for this moment: the chance to make good on his pledge to name the first Black woman to the Supreme Court at a time of continuing racial reckoning for the country.

President Joe Biden and his legal team have spent a year preparing for this moment: the chance to make good on his pledge to name the first Black woman to the Supreme Court at a time of continuing racial reckoning for the country. The decision by Justice Stephen G. Breyer to retire will give Biden his most high-profile opportunity since taking office to reshape the federal judiciary, having already nominated dozens of district and appeals court judges from a range of racial, ethnic and legal backgrounds. His promise also underscores how much Black women have struggled to become part of a very small pool of elite judges in the nation’s higher federal courts. Speculation on Wednesday focused on a rarefied group of well-credentialed Black women who have elite educations and experience on the bench. The short list included Ketanji Brown Jackson, a 51-year-old judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit who graduated from Harvard Law School and clerked for Breyer, and Leondra R. Kruger, a 45-year-old justice on the California Supreme Court who graduated from Yale Law School and clerked for former Justice John Paul Stevens. J. Michelle Childs, 55, a little-known U.S. District Court judge in South Carolina whom Biden recently nominated for an appeals court, is also seen as a potential contender. One of Biden’s top congressional allies, Rep. James E. Clyburn of South Carolina, told Biden during the presidential campaign that he believed she should be appointed, in part because she came from a blue-collar background, another underrepresented group among federal judges. Jackson and Kruger attended Ivy League law schools, unlike Childs, who attended the University of South Carolina. And while there are some differences in the women’s backgrounds and experience, they are united in being among a relative handful of Black women who have the kind of credentials normally considered qualifications for the Supreme Court. The first Black woman to serve as a federal appeals court judge — an experience that in the modern era is usually a key credential in becoming a justice — was appointed by President Gerald R. Ford in 1975. By the time Biden took office more than 40 years later, only seven more had served in such a position. “If you just look at the raw numbers, it’s a telling and a sobering statistic,” said Leslie D. Davis, the chief executive of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms. “That makes it clear that we must do better.” Biden has said he hopes the diversity he has brought to the high ranks of the federal government will be a centerpiece of his legacy. In addition to his record on judgeships, his decision to pick Kamala Harris as his running mate during the 2020 campaign led to her becoming the first Black woman to serve as vice president. Half of Biden’s first 16 nominees for federal appeals courts have been Black women — as many as all previous presidents combined had appointed. That emphasis has attracted scrutiny from across the ideological spectrum. For Davis, the important point of comparison is how few Black women had previously been appointed to the federal bench. “It’s a story that Black women’s voices have not been appreciated,” she said, “that their perspectives have not been valued, and their voices have not been heard.” But conservatives like the National Review legal commentator Ed Whelan have pointed out that the number of Black women Biden has nominated is strikingly disproportionate to the available pool of Black women with law degrees. According to a 2021 profile of the legal profession by the American Bar Association, just 4.7% of American lawyers are Black and 37% of lawyers are female. The report did not break out Black women in particular, but the implication is that roughly 2% of American lawyers are both Black and female. “By Biden’s declared standard of demographic diversity, his first year of judicial nominations has clearly been a remarkable success,” Whelan wrote this month, calling Biden’s record on appointing Black women “extraordinary” while also taking “some delight in noting” that liberal white males, with just two appellate nomination slots so far, were “the big losers.” Biden made his promise to name a Black woman to the Supreme Court at a debate in February 2020, just days before facing his Democratic rivals in the South Carolina primary, where Black people make up a large portion of the party’s voters. At the time, his campaign was struggling amid losses in two of the early presidential contests. “I’m looking forward to making sure there’s a Black woman on the Supreme Court to make sure we in fact get everyone represented,” Biden said that night. The promise helped Biden secure the support of Clyburn just days before the party’s contest in South Carolina. “I have three daughters,” Clyburn told Bloomberg. “I think I would be less than a good dad if I did not say to the president-to-be, this is an issue that is simmering in the African American community, that Black women think they have as much right to sit on the Supreme Court as any other women, and up to that point none had been considered.” Biden went on to win the South Carolina primary, proving the durability of his support among Black voters and setting in motion a string of victories on Super Tuesday a short time later. Biden's Supreme Court selection will take place in a country still feeling the reverberations of the police killing of George Floyd in 2020 and subsequent mass protests over racial justice. It also would come as the conservative-dominated court agreed this week to hear cases challenging race-conscious college admissions programs, raising the possibility that it may ban affirmative action policies aimed at maintaining racial diversity. Biden’s political support has been especially strong among Black women. New York Times exit polling data from the 2020 election showed that while they made up just 8% of the electorate, they were Biden’s most lopsided supporters: 90% of Black female voters cast their ballots for him. And in Georgia, Biden’s win was followed by Democrats sweeping a pair of crucial runoff elections for Senate seats that gave the party razor-thin control of the Senate — and with it the ability to confirm judges without needing any Republican support. Several factors went into those narrow wins that flipped the state blue, but one was that a group of Black female organizers — most famously Stacey Abrams, the former candidate for governor who founded a voter registration group called the New Georgia Project — had been working to register hundreds of thousands new voters and encourage them to turn out. For Democrats, maintaining enthusiastic support among Black voters, and especially Black women, may be critical in November’s midterm elections. Democratic activists urged Biden on Wednesday not to back down from his promise. “There would be little to no rationale for President Biden to miss this opportunity,” Aimee Allison, the president of She the People, a liberal advocacy group, said in a statement. “It is and could be a defining moment for his presidency.” Polls show Democrats trailing in their efforts to keep control of the House and the Senate, and Biden has had a rocky first year, in part because the Senate filibuster rule means Republicans can block much of his agenda, like passage of a social spending bill and an expansion of federal protections for voting rights. But since the Senate abolished the filibuster for judges — Democrats did so for lower and appellate court judges in 2013, and Republicans did so for Supreme Court justices in 2017 — a party that controls both the White House and the Senate by any margin can appoint life-tenured federal judges, including to fill any vacancies among the 179 federal appellate seats. In April, when Biden announced his first three appeals court nominees, all three were Black women with Ivy League educations, including Jackson. Two more of the next 10 appellate judges he appointed are also Black women. And of his six appellate nominees still pending before the Senate, three are Black women. Biden’s decision to use his power to place numerous Black women on the bench — as well as in district court judgeships and high-profile roles in the executive branch — is transformative considering the many decades during which they have rarely exercised power in the legal system. The history of Black female judges mirrors the larger story of African Americans since the Civil War, according to a 2010 article in the Howard Law Journal by Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, who is the chief judge of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. “Black women judges came to the ‘judicial’ table much later than Black men (by more than 80 years) and also much later than white women (by almost 60 years),” she wrote in the article, “Black Women Judges: The Historical Journey of Black Women to the Nation’s Highest Courts.” New York City did not have its first Black female judge until 1939, when Jane Matilda Bolin was appointed to the Domestic Relations Court, Blackburne-Rigsby wrote, adding that when the city’s mayor, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, appointed Bolin, he first consulted her husband — a sign of the times and of the limits placed on Black women in the court system. Blackburne-Rigsby declined to comment Wednesday. But in her article, she sounded a note of caution about viewing that demographic’s slow rise to judicial power as a matter of numbers alone. “Being both Black and female brings an important additional voice to the deliberative process,” she wrote, “but that voice is varied because there is no singular ‘Black woman’ perspective.” Even after the civil rights movement in the 1960s, which included President Lyndon B. Johnson’s appointment of Thurgood Marshall as the first Black Supreme Court justice in 1967, Black women’s access to the levers of judicial power remained limited. In 1966, Johnson had also appointed the first Black female federal judge — Constance Baker Motley, whom he placed in the Southern District of New York. And in the years that followed, Motley was sometimes mentioned as a potential future Supreme Court justice, said Tomiko Brown-Nagin, a Harvard legal historian who published a biography of the judge this week, “Civil Rights Queen.” But Brown-Nagin, who is also the dean of the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, said that while Motley was “eminently qualified” for elevation, her political window closed: As a former civil rights lawyer, she was seen as a liberal, and from 1969 until 1993, there was no Supreme Court vacancy while a Democrat was president. “This appointment has been a long time coming,” Brown-Nagin said.

Biden expected to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court

Colombian singer Maluma surprised his fans with a new single `Cositas De La USA` and an accompanying music video on Thursday. 
 
According to People magazine, the single`s name translates to `Little Things from the USA` and refers to the gifts he brings back to his home country from his visits to the United States, though the music video is much steamier than the title would imply at first blush.The irresistible music video, produced by 'The Rude Boys', follows Maluma, as he pays visits to multiple women in their respective rooms at the same hotel, and he surprises them with a bevy of beautifully wrapped gifts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-pamela-anderson-splits-from-husband-dan-hayhurst-after-one-year-of-marriage-446510" hreflang="en">Pamela Anderson splits from husband Dan Hayhurst after one year of marriage</a> 
 
The song is backed by traditional reggaeton beats as he sings, "No soy malo pero por ti me puedo volver, tu eres el error que yo con gusto quiero cometer".The video was shot in Medellin, Colombia, and comes ahead of his Medallo en el Mapa concert set to take place in the city`s Atanasio Girardot Stadium on April 30. 
 
The video also features a series of colourful, fashion-forward looks worn by the `Sobrio` singer. On Wednesday, Versace announced that the star would be the face of their new advertising campaign, with a special feature of his dog Buda, for the Spring-Summer 2022 collection. The star called this new honour a "dream come true." 
 
"Fashion is one of my biggest passions outside of music and being part of Donatella`s vision, and the Versace family is an honor. Together, we have created memorable moments with custom performance and red carpet looks, magazine covers and the amazing Met Gala 2021 design. With this campaign, we are creating more memories as a fashion family together," he said in a statement.

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He added, "One of my greatest highlights for 2022 will be my dog, Buda, in his first campaign with me -- a man`s best friend joins fashion. This is to many more memories with my Versace family."The star kicked off his Papi Juancho World Tour in September and performed in the US throughout October. 
 
After a short break, he is set to resume his tour with Europe dates in February.During his stop in Los Angeles, the `Cada Quien` singer reflected on the teachings of the past year and a half after connecting with his audience through an acoustic performance of his hit `ADMV`.Similarly, in April, the star told People magazine, he learned about gratitude and patience during his time in lockdown. 
 
The singer is also set to make his acting debut alongside Jennifer Lopez in the highly anticipated new film `Marry Me` set to premiere in theaters on February 11.

Colombian singer Maluma surprised his fans with a new single `Cositas De La USA` and an accompanying music video on Thursday. According to People magazine, the single`s name translates to `Little Things from the USA` and refers to the gifts he brings back to his home country from his visits to the United States, though the music video is much steamier than the title would imply at first blush.

Colombian singer Maluma surprised his fans with a new single `Cositas De La USA` and an accompanying music video on Thursday. According to People magazine, the single`s name translates to `Little Things from the USA` and refers to the gifts he brings back to his home country from his visits to the United States, though the music video is much steamier than the title would imply at first blush.The irresistible music video, produced by 'The Rude Boys', follows Maluma, as he pays visits to multiple women in their respective rooms at the same hotel, and he surprises them with a bevy of beautifully wrapped gifts. Pamela Anderson splits from husband Dan Hayhurst after one year of marriage The song is backed by traditional reggaeton beats as he sings, "No soy malo pero por ti me puedo volver, tu eres el error que yo con gusto quiero cometer".The video was shot in Medellin, Colombia, and comes ahead of his Medallo en el Mapa concert set to take place in the city`s Atanasio Girardot Stadium on April 30. The video also features a series of colourful, fashion-forward looks worn by the `Sobrio` singer. On Wednesday, Versace announced that the star would be the face of their new advertising campaign, with a special feature of his dog Buda, for the Spring-Summer 2022 collection. The star called this new honour a "dream come true." "Fashion is one of my biggest passions outside of music and being part of Donatella`s vision, and the Versace family is an honor. Together, we have created memorable moments with custom performance and red carpet looks, magazine covers and the amazing Met Gala 2021 design. With this campaign, we are creating more memories as a fashion family together," he said in a statement. Pamela Anderson splits from husband Dan Hayhurst after one year of marriage He added, "One of my greatest highlights for 2022 will be my dog, Buda, in his first campaign with me -- a man`s best friend joins fashion. This is to many more memories with my Versace family."The star kicked off his Papi Juancho World Tour in September and performed in the US throughout October. After a short break, he is set to resume his tour with Europe dates in February.During his stop in Los Angeles, the `Cada Quien` singer reflected on the teachings of the past year and a half after connecting with his audience through an acoustic performance of his hit `ADMV`.Similarly, in April, the star told People magazine, he learned about gratitude and patience during his time in lockdown. The singer is also set to make his acting debut alongside Jennifer Lopez in the highly anticipated new film `Marry Me` set to premiere in theaters on February 11.

Maluma drops surprise new single 'Cositas De La USA' along with sensual music video

Russian ambassador to US Anatoly Antonov has said that global democratic forces needed to help restore peace in Kazakhstan instead of destabilising the situation. He took shot at the US by saying that situation in the region had worsened after 'American escape from Afghanistan'

"Kazakhstan has come under attack of radicals manifesting dehumanizing ideologies. Thousands of jihadists and marauders tried to `undermine` the constitutional order. They use weapons against civilians. They keep on inflicting damage to public and private property. I`d like to note that all this is happening after the American escape from Afghanistan and the rapid development of extremist ideas in the region," said Antonov in a statement published on Russian embassy's FB page.

"Today, all democratic forces in the world need to help the Government of Kazakhstan recover from the current turmoil, and try not to deteriorate the situation," Antonov stressed.

He said that unrest in Kazakhstan was assisted by thugs. He further said that it was essential that terrorism in the country is eradicated and order is restored.

Kazakhstan continues to be in the grip of the unrest though situation has marginally improved. On Sunday (January 9), more than 160 people were reported dead by a government-run portal. Out of this, Almaty alone accounts for 103 
&nbsp;

Russian ambassador to US Anatoly Antonov has said that global democratic forces needed to help restore peace in Kazakhstan instead of destabilising the situation.

Russian ambassador to US Anatoly Antonov has said that global democratic forces needed to help restore peace in Kazakhstan instead of destabilising the situation. He took shot at the US by saying that situation in the region had worsened after 'American escape from Afghanistan' "Kazakhstan has come under attack of radicals manifesting dehumanizing ideologies. Thousands of jihadists and marauders tried to `undermine` the constitutional order. They use weapons against civilians. They keep on inflicting damage to public and private property. I`d like to note that all this is happening after the American escape from Afghanistan and the rapid development of extremist ideas in the region," said Antonov in a statement published on Russian embassy's FB page. "Today, all democratic forces in the world need to help the Government of Kazakhstan recover from the current turmoil, and try not to deteriorate the situation," Antonov stressed. He said that unrest in Kazakhstan was assisted by thugs. He further said that it was essential that terrorism in the country is eradicated and order is restored. Kazakhstan continues to be in the grip of the unrest though situation has marginally improved. On Sunday (January 9), more than 160 people were reported dead by a government-run portal. Out of this, Almaty alone accounts for 103

Russian Ambassador in US says democracies must restore peace in Kazakhstan

White House Indo-Pacific co-ordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday that increased economic engagement in Asia would be a key element &nbsp;of US policy in the region for the year ahead.

Campbell, at a Carnegie Endowment for International Peace webinar, said President Joe Biden had made clear the United States needs to be instrumental in the framing of economic and commercial engagement and trade practices in the Indo-Pacific as China`s influence grows.

"That`s an area where the United States, indeed, needs to step up its game," Campbell said, adding that the U.S. role must go beyond traditional trade and include digital engagement and technological standard setting.

"We`ve got to make clear that not only are we deeply engaged diplomatically, militarily, comprehensively, strategically – that we have an open, engaged, optimistic approach to commercial interactions, investment in the Indo Pacific," Campbell said.

"I think we well understand inside the Biden administration that 2022 will be about these engagements comprehensively across the region," he said, without providing specifics.

US-China relations have sunk to their lowest point in decades. US President Joe Biden has sought to leverage ties with allies and partners to counter what Washington sees as increasing economic and military coercion by Beijing.

His administration has touted its so-called AUKUS pact, under which the United States and Britain have agreed to help Australia acquire nuclear submarines - as well as leader-level summits between the United States, Australia, India and Japan - as evidence that US partnerships are causing China "heartburn."

But some Indo-Pacific countries, many of which count China as their largest trading partner, have lamented what they see as lacking US economic engagement, especially after former President Donald Trump backed away from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

White House Indo-Pacific co-ordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday that increased economic engagement in Asia would be a key element of US policy in the region for the year ahead.

White House Indo-Pacific co-ordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday that increased economic engagement in Asia would be a key element of US policy in the region for the year ahead. Campbell, at a Carnegie Endowment for International Peace webinar, said President Joe Biden had made clear the United States needs to be instrumental in the framing of economic and commercial engagement and trade practices in the Indo-Pacific as China`s influence grows. "That`s an area where the United States, indeed, needs to step up its game," Campbell said, adding that the U.S. role must go beyond traditional trade and include digital engagement and technological standard setting. "We`ve got to make clear that not only are we deeply engaged diplomatically, militarily, comprehensively, strategically – that we have an open, engaged, optimistic approach to commercial interactions, investment in the Indo Pacific," Campbell said. "I think we well understand inside the Biden administration that 2022 will be about these engagements comprehensively across the region," he said, without providing specifics. US-China relations have sunk to their lowest point in decades. US President Joe Biden has sought to leverage ties with allies and partners to counter what Washington sees as increasing economic and military coercion by Beijing. His administration has touted its so-called AUKUS pact, under which the United States and Britain have agreed to help Australia acquire nuclear submarines - as well as leader-level summits between the United States, Australia, India and Japan - as evidence that US partnerships are causing China "heartburn." But some Indo-Pacific countries, many of which count China as their largest trading partner, have lamented what they see as lacking US economic engagement, especially after former President Donald Trump backed away from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade deal. (With inputs from agencies)

US looks to step up economic relations in Indo-Pacific

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings. State of emergency had been declared on Wednesday morning in some cities hit by violence. The emergency was extended across the country late in the evening.

US and the United Nations have urged Kazakh authorities to show 'restraint' while dealing with civil unrest.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supports "calls for calm" and said protesters should be able to "express themselves peacefully," urging the authorities "to exercise restraint."

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The United Nations also called for all parties to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and promote dialogue."

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the international body was following events in the Central Asian country "with concern."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-over-fuel-price-hike-kazakhstan-declares-state-of-emergency-in-cities-hit-by-unrest-442311">Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest</a>

Psaki said "crazy Russian claims" about a US hand behind the mass demonstrations are "absolutely false and clearly a part of the standard Russian disinformation playbook."

The country has been roiled by protests since the start of the year which escalated Wednesday into clashes with police.

Authorities cut internet and mobile phone access nationwide and earlier declared states of emergency in the epicentres of the rallies -- financial capital Almaty and the Mangystau province -- as well as in the capital Nur-Sultan, where no demonstrations have so far been reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings.

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings. State of emergency had been declared on Wednesday morning in some cities hit by violence. The emergency was extended across the country late in the evening. US and the United Nations have urged Kazakh authorities to show 'restraint' while dealing with civil unrest. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supports "calls for calm" and said protesters should be able to "express themselves peacefully," urging the authorities "to exercise restraint." × The United Nations also called for all parties to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and promote dialogue." UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the international body was following events in the Central Asian country "with concern." Also Read | Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest Psaki said "crazy Russian claims" about a US hand behind the mass demonstrations are "absolutely false and clearly a part of the standard Russian disinformation playbook." The country has been roiled by protests since the start of the year which escalated Wednesday into clashes with police. Authorities cut internet and mobile phone access nationwide and earlier declared states of emergency in the epicentres of the rallies -- financial capital Almaty and the Mangystau province -- as well as in the capital Nur-Sultan, where no demonstrations have so far been reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint

Amid a drop in public confidence in the Supreme Court and calls for increasing its membership, Chief Justice John Roberts devoted his annual year-end report on the federal judiciary Friday to a plea for judicial independence.

“The judiciary’s power to manage its internal affairs insulates courts from inappropriate political influence and is crucial to preserving public trust in its work as a separate and coequal branch of government,” he wrote.

The report comes less than a month after a bipartisan commission appointed by President Joe Biden finished its work studying changes to the federal judiciary. While that panel analyzed proposals like imposing 18-year term limits on justices and expanding, or “packing,” the court with additional justices, much of Roberts' report was focused on thwarting less contentious efforts by Congress to address financial conflicts and workplace misconduct in the judicial system. Both issues are the subject of proposed legislation that has drawn bipartisan support.

Gabe Roth, executive director of Fix the Court, a nonprofit group that has called for stricter ethics rules for the Supreme Court, said Roberts faced an uphill battle.

“Chief Justice Roberts is taking a page from his old playbook: acknowledging institutional challenges in the judiciary but telling the public that only we judges can fix them,” Roth said. “Yet the problems of overlooked financial conflicts and sexual harassment are serious and endemic, and there’s no indication they’re going away. So Congress has every right to step in and, via legislation, hold the third branch to account, which I expect to happen in 2022.”

Roberts addressed at some length a recent series of articles in The Wall Street Journal that found that 131 federal judges had violated a federal law by hearing 685 lawsuits between 2010 and 2018 that involved companies in which they or their families owned shares of stock.

“Let me be crystal clear: The judiciary takes this matter seriously,” Roberts wrote. “We expect judges to adhere to the highest standards, and those judges violated an ethics rule. But I do want to put these lapses in context.”

In the scheme of things, he wrote, the number of violations was vanishingly small.

“According to The Wall Street Journal’s own data,” he wrote, “the 685 instances identified amount to a very small fraction — less than three-hundredths of 1% — of the 2.5 million civil cases filed in the district courts in the nine years included in the study. That’s a 99.97% compliance rate.”

“Still,” he wrote, “this context is not excuse. We are duty-bound to strive for 100% compliance because public trust is essential, not incidental, to our function.”

Although Roberts did not mention it, the Supreme Court has not been immune from similar lapses. In 2017, for instance, after participating in the oral arguments in a patent case, the Supreme Court announced that Roberts “has concluded that he should not continue to participate in this case.”

He had discovered, the court said, that he owned 1,212 shares of the parent company of one of the parties in the case. The shares were worth more than $100,000, according to a financial disclosure report.

“The ordinary conflict check conducted in the chief justice’s chambers inadvertently failed to find this potential conflict,” a letter from a court official to lawyers in the patent case said.

In the report issued on Friday, Roberts called for more rigorous ethics training and better systems of conflict checks. He did not address a solution urged by many ethics experts: barring judges from investing in individual stocks.

Roberts also touched on what he called “the continuing concern over inappropriate behavior in the judicial workplace.”

The issue had been a topic in several of the chief justice’s reports since 2017, when Judge Alex Kozinski, who had served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit for more than three decades, announced his retirement after The Washington Post reported that some 15 women had accused him of sexual harassment.

The women, many of whom had served as his law clerks, said Kozinski had touched them inappropriately, made unwanted sexual comments and made them watch sexual materials on his computer.

Roberts wrote Friday that the federal judiciary had taken many steps to make its workplaces safe, including revising its procedures to “provide robust mechanisms for reporting and addressing instances of misconduct.”

As is his custom, the chief justice began his report with a historical sketch. This year, it was of William H. Taft, who was appointed to be chief justice a century ago, after having served as president. Taft, a large man, was an energetic administrator.

“Taft sought to supplant the prevailing culture of isolation in which each judge was — in his words — left to ‘paddle his own canoe,’” Roberts wrote.

“Once you get past the image of ‘Big Bill’ paddling a canoe, consider that he knew well how to navigate the halls of Congress,” Roberts wrote, adding, “He threw his considerable political heft into creating the mechanisms of self-governance for federal courts across the country.”

Although Roberts did not address proposals to increase the size of his court or to impose terms limits on its members, he described with approval Taft’s efforts to preserve judicial independence.

“He understood that criticism of the courts is inevitable,” Roberts wrote, “and he lived through an era when federal courts faced strident calls for reform, some warranted and some not.”

The proper response, Roberts said Taft once observed, was “to remove, as far as possible, grounds for just criticism of our judicial system.”

Amid a drop in public confidence in the Supreme Court and calls for increasing its membership, Chief Justice John Roberts devoted his annual year-end report on the federal judiciary Friday to a plea for judicial independence.

Amid a drop in public confidence in the Supreme Court and calls for increasing its membership, Chief Justice John Roberts devoted his annual year-end report on the federal judiciary Friday to a plea for judicial independence. “The judiciary’s power to manage its internal affairs insulates courts from inappropriate political influence and is crucial to preserving public trust in its work as a separate and coequal branch of government,” he wrote. The report comes less than a month after a bipartisan commission appointed by President Joe Biden finished its work studying changes to the federal judiciary. While that panel analyzed proposals like imposing 18-year term limits on justices and expanding, or “packing,” the court with additional justices, much of Roberts' report was focused on thwarting less contentious efforts by Congress to address financial conflicts and workplace misconduct in the judicial system. Both issues are the subject of proposed legislation that has drawn bipartisan support. Gabe Roth, executive director of Fix the Court, a nonprofit group that has called for stricter ethics rules for the Supreme Court, said Roberts faced an uphill battle. “Chief Justice Roberts is taking a page from his old playbook: acknowledging institutional challenges in the judiciary but telling the public that only we judges can fix them,” Roth said. “Yet the problems of overlooked financial conflicts and sexual harassment are serious and endemic, and there’s no indication they’re going away. So Congress has every right to step in and, via legislation, hold the third branch to account, which I expect to happen in 2022.” Roberts addressed at some length a recent series of articles in The Wall Street Journal that found that 131 federal judges had violated a federal law by hearing 685 lawsuits between 2010 and 2018 that involved companies in which they or their families owned shares of stock. “Let me be crystal clear: The judiciary takes this matter seriously,” Roberts wrote. “We expect judges to adhere to the highest standards, and those judges violated an ethics rule. But I do want to put these lapses in context.” In the scheme of things, he wrote, the number of violations was vanishingly small. “According to The Wall Street Journal’s own data,” he wrote, “the 685 instances identified amount to a very small fraction — less than three-hundredths of 1% — of the 2.5 million civil cases filed in the district courts in the nine years included in the study. That’s a 99.97% compliance rate.” “Still,” he wrote, “this context is not excuse. We are duty-bound to strive for 100% compliance because public trust is essential, not incidental, to our function.” Although Roberts did not mention it, the Supreme Court has not been immune from similar lapses. In 2017, for instance, after participating in the oral arguments in a patent case, the Supreme Court announced that Roberts “has concluded that he should not continue to participate in this case.” He had discovered, the court said, that he owned 1,212 shares of the parent company of one of the parties in the case. The shares were worth more than $100,000, according to a financial disclosure report. “The ordinary conflict check conducted in the chief justice’s chambers inadvertently failed to find this potential conflict,” a letter from a court official to lawyers in the patent case said. In the report issued on Friday, Roberts called for more rigorous ethics training and better systems of conflict checks. He did not address a solution urged by many ethics experts: barring judges from investing in individual stocks. Roberts also touched on what he called “the continuing concern over inappropriate behavior in the judicial workplace.” The issue had been a topic in several of the chief justice’s reports since 2017, when Judge Alex Kozinski, who had served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit for more than three decades, announced his retirement after The Washington Post reported that some 15 women had accused him of sexual harassment. The women, many of whom had served as his law clerks, said Kozinski had touched them inappropriately, made unwanted sexual comments and made them watch sexual materials on his computer. Roberts wrote Friday that the federal judiciary had taken many steps to make its workplaces safe, including revising its procedures to “provide robust mechanisms for reporting and addressing instances of misconduct.” As is his custom, the chief justice began his report with a historical sketch. This year, it was of William H. Taft, who was appointed to be chief justice a century ago, after having served as president. Taft, a large man, was an energetic administrator. “Taft sought to supplant the prevailing culture of isolation in which each judge was — in his words — left to ‘paddle his own canoe,’” Roberts wrote. “Once you get past the image of ‘Big Bill’ paddling a canoe, consider that he knew well how to navigate the halls of Congress,” Roberts wrote, adding, “He threw his considerable political heft into creating the mechanisms of self-governance for federal courts across the country.” Although Roberts did not address proposals to increase the size of his court or to impose terms limits on its members, he described with approval Taft’s efforts to preserve judicial independence. “He understood that criticism of the courts is inevitable,” Roberts wrote, “and he lived through an era when federal courts faced strident calls for reform, some warranted and some not.” The proper response, Roberts said Taft once observed, was “to remove, as far as possible, grounds for just criticism of our judicial system.”

Chief Justice Roberts reflects on conflicts, harassment and judicial independence

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country.

Rina Amiri Rina Amiri, an Afghan-born US scholar and mediation expert who served at the State Department under former president Barack Obama, will take the role of special envoy for Afghan women, girls and human rights, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced.

After capturing power in Afghanistan, though Taliban seemed to project a liberal-than-before image, restrictions were gradually put on aspects of women's lives. Just three days ago, Taliban government said that women could not travel long distances without being accompanied by a male relative. On the same day Taliban minister for education said that co-education was against Islamic&nbsp;values.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-education-minister-says-co-education-is-against-islamic-values-440211">Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values</a>

US appointing a special envoy for women's rights assumed importance in this light.

"We desire a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan, where all Afghans can live and thrive in political, economic and social inclusivity," Blinken said in a statement.

The Taliban imposed an ultra-austere brand of Islam on Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 regime, including banning women from working and girls from education.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-cant-travel-long-distances-without-male-relative-taliban-440129">Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban</a>

Despite Taliban pledges to act differently after their August takeover, many women remain barred from returning to work and girls are largely cut off from secondary schooling.

On Sunday, the Taliban said that women would not be allowed to travel long distances without a male escort and that vehicle owners should not give rides to women unless they wear headscarves.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country.

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country. Rina Amiri Rina Amiri, an Afghan-born US scholar and mediation expert who served at the State Department under former president Barack Obama, will take the role of special envoy for Afghan women, girls and human rights, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced. After capturing power in Afghanistan, though Taliban seemed to project a liberal-than-before image, restrictions were gradually put on aspects of women's lives. Just three days ago, Taliban government said that women could not travel long distances without being accompanied by a male relative. On the same day Taliban minister for education said that co-education was against Islamic values. Also Read | Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values US appointing a special envoy for women's rights assumed importance in this light. "We desire a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan, where all Afghans can live and thrive in political, economic and social inclusivity," Blinken said in a statement. The Taliban imposed an ultra-austere brand of Islam on Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 regime, including banning women from working and girls from education. Also Read | Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban Despite Taliban pledges to act differently after their August takeover, many women remain barred from returning to work and girls are largely cut off from secondary schooling. On Sunday, the Taliban said that women would not be allowed to travel long distances without a male escort and that vehicle owners should not give rides to women unless they wear headscarves. (With inputs from agencies)

US appoints special envoy for Afghan women's rights

A small plane crashed in a residential area of San Diego County, California on Monday (as per local time) evening. Authorities and local media said that the plane downed power lines and that there were no survivors. The location of the plane crash is 15 miles east of San Diego.

As per NBC, first responders were called at around 7 pm local time.

Firefighters were not able to locate any survivors, the department said in the news release without specifying how many victims were found on board.

No injuries on the ground were confirmed, the San Diego County Sheriff Department said on its official Twitter account.

NBC reported at least one home was damaged in the incident, with power lines also knocked down, affecting dozens of homes.

(More details awaited)

A small plane crashed in a residential area of San Diego County, California on Monday (as per local time) evening. Authorities and local media said that the plane downed power lines and that there were no survivors.

A small plane crashed in a residential area of San Diego County, California on Monday (as per local time) evening. Authorities and local media said that the plane downed power lines and that there were no survivors. The location of the plane crash is 15 miles east of San Diego. As per NBC, first responders were called at around 7 pm local time. Firefighters were not able to locate any survivors, the department said in the news release without specifying how many victims were found on board. No injuries on the ground were confirmed, the San Diego County Sheriff Department said on its official Twitter account. NBC reported at least one home was damaged in the incident, with power lines also knocked down, affecting dozens of homes. (More details awaited)

Plane crashes in California, no survivors

A lone gunman killed four people in a shooting spree in Denver, USA. &nbsp;He also wounded three, including a police officer before being shot down by cops. It is not known what was the motive behind the shooting.

The shooting spree began around 5 pm (local time). Police Chief Paul Pazen said that at this time the shooter killed two women and wounded a man near downtown Denver.

The suspect then fled in a car and fatally shot a man in east Denver's Cheesman Park neighbourhood before opening fire again in a west Denver community where no one was hit, Pazen said. According to Pazen, the suspect twice exchanged gunfire from his vehicle with Denver officers pursuing him, disabling a police cruiser.

From there, the gunman drove into the neighbouring city of Lakewood, where he shot and killed a fourth person inside an unspecified business, according to Lakewood Police spokesman John Romero.

Romero said that the gunman fled from Lakewood police when they attempted to pull him over and engaged in a running gun battle with officers before fleeing on foot and entering a hotel, where he shot and wounded a clerk.

He then shot at police officers again, wounding one of them, before police shot him dead, Romero told reporters. Authorities did not publicly identify the suspect and said circumstances leading to the shooting remained under investigation.

The conditions of the wounded officer and civilians were not immediately known, Romero said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A lone gunman killed four people in a shooting spree in Denver, USA. He also wounded three, including a police officer before being shot down by cops. It is not known what was the motive behind the shooting.

A lone gunman killed four people in a shooting spree in Denver, USA. He also wounded three, including a police officer before being shot down by cops. It is not known what was the motive behind the shooting. The shooting spree began around 5 pm (local time). Police Chief Paul Pazen said that at this time the shooter killed two women and wounded a man near downtown Denver. The suspect then fled in a car and fatally shot a man in east Denver's Cheesman Park neighbourhood before opening fire again in a west Denver community where no one was hit, Pazen said. According to Pazen, the suspect twice exchanged gunfire from his vehicle with Denver officers pursuing him, disabling a police cruiser. From there, the gunman drove into the neighbouring city of Lakewood, where he shot and killed a fourth person inside an unspecified business, according to Lakewood Police spokesman John Romero. Romero said that the gunman fled from Lakewood police when they attempted to pull him over and engaged in a running gun battle with officers before fleeing on foot and entering a hotel, where he shot and wounded a clerk. He then shot at police officers again, wounding one of them, before police shot him dead, Romero told reporters. Authorities did not publicly identify the suspect and said circumstances leading to the shooting remained under investigation. The conditions of the wounded officer and civilians were not immediately known, Romero said. (With inputs from agencies)

Gunman kills four in Denver shooting before being shot dead by police

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