There are no signs that the fighting in Ukraine will end soon. New estimated casualty numbers from Russia's winter offensive in Ukraine have been released by the White House. It claims that more than 100,000 casualties have been reported in Moscow since December, claiming that this is a significant quantity and an important indicator.

White House: 20,000 Russian soldiers killed in ongoing conflict

A Muslim mayor in the US has said he was stunned after being stopped from attending a White House celebration with President Joe Biden to belatedly mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;Mohamed Khairullah, the longest-serving mayor in New Jersey, was reportedly blocked by the US Secret Service from attending the meet.&nbsp;

Khairullah was on his way to Washington DC to attend Eid al-Fitr celebrations alongside Biden and&nbsp;prominent Muslim leaders when he received a call from the White House, stating he had not been cleared for entry by the Secret Service.&nbsp;

“It left me baffled, shocked and disappointed. It’s not a matter of I didn’t get to go to a party. It’s why I did not go. And it’s a list that has targeted me because of my identity. And I don’t think the highest office in the United States should be down with such profiling,"&nbsp;Khairullah was quoted as saying by the Associated Press.

<h2>US Secret Service fails to cite any reason</h2>

After the controversy snowballed,&nbsp;US Secret Service released a statement confirming that&nbsp;Khairullah was not allowed but refrained from detailing why.&nbsp;

“While we regret any inconvenience this may have caused, the mayor was not allowed to enter the White House complex this evening,” said spokesman Anthony&nbsp;Guglielmi.

“Unfortunately we are not able to comment further on the specific protective means and methods used to conduct our security operations at the White House.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/infiltrating-the-secret-service-us-secret-service-agents-compromised-469470">WATCH |&nbsp;Infiltrating the secret service: US secret service agents compromised</a>

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<h2>Man named Khairullah on FBI's list</h2>

After being disinvited&nbsp;a few miles away from the White House, 47-year-old Khairullah informed the&nbsp;New Jersey wing of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) about the incident. The body instantly called upon the Biden administration to do away with the FBI’s dissemination of information from what is known as a Terrorist Screening Data Set. It includes the names and backgrounds of hundreds of thousands of individuals who are perceived as a threat to the USA.&nbsp;

According to CAIR, a person named&nbsp;Khairullah with the same birthdate as the mayor was on the said list, according to a dataset that the body obtained in 2019.&nbsp;

“If&nbsp;such incidents are happening to high-profile and well-respected American-Muslim figures like Mayor Khairullah, this then begs the question: what is happening to Muslims who do not have the access and visibility that the mayor has?” said&nbsp;Selaedin Maksut,&nbsp;executive director, CAIR.&nbsp;

Khairullah, born in Syria, immigrated to the US in 1991 and became a permanent citizen in 2000, having lived in Prospect Park since. He was elected as the town's mayor in 2001 and has spent 14 years as a volunteer firefighter in the community.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-multiple-fatalities-dozens-injured-after-dust-storm-in-illinois-causes-highway-pile-up-587960">ALSO READ |&nbsp;US: At least six killed, dozens injured after dust storm in Illinois causes highway pileup</a>

Notably, during his address to the attendants at the White House gathering, Biden said he was committed to helping Muslim communities and that their culture was "woven throughout American culture".&nbsp;

"At this point, we look ahead to the work that remains.&nbsp;We remember Muslim communities around the world that are enduring conflict, poverty, hunger, disease, and those that are displaced from their homes. And we recommit to the tireless work of building peace and standing up for the rights and dignity of all people.&nbsp;All people."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Muslim mayor in the US has said he was stunned after being stopped from attending a White House celebration with President Joe Biden to belatedly mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

A Muslim mayor in the US has said he was stunned after being stopped from attending a White House celebration with President Joe Biden to belatedly mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Mohamed Khairullah, the longest-serving mayor in New Jersey, was reportedly blocked by the US Secret Service from attending the meet. Khairullah was on his way to Washington DC to attend Eid al-Fitr celebrations alongside Biden and prominent Muslim leaders when he received a call from the White House, stating he had not been cleared for entry by the Secret Service. “It left me baffled, shocked and disappointed. It’s not a matter of I didn’t get to go to a party. It’s why I did not go. And it’s a list that has targeted me because of my identity. And I don’t think the highest office in the United States should be down with such profiling," Khairullah was quoted as saying by the Associated Press. US Secret Service fails to cite any reason After the controversy snowballed, US Secret Service released a statement confirming that Khairullah was not allowed but refrained from detailing why. “While we regret any inconvenience this may have caused, the mayor was not allowed to enter the White House complex this evening,” said spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. “Unfortunately we are not able to comment further on the specific protective means and methods used to conduct our security operations at the White House.” WATCH | Infiltrating the secret service: US secret service agents compromised × Man named Khairullah on FBI's list After being disinvited a few miles away from the White House, 47-year-old Khairullah informed the New Jersey wing of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) about the incident. The body instantly called upon the Biden administration to do away with the FBI’s dissemination of information from what is known as a Terrorist Screening Data Set. It includes the names and backgrounds of hundreds of thousands of individuals who are perceived as a threat to the USA. According to CAIR, a person named Khairullah with the same birthdate as the mayor was on the said list, according to a dataset that the body obtained in 2019. “If such incidents are happening to high-profile and well-respected American-Muslim figures like Mayor Khairullah, this then begs the question: what is happening to Muslims who do not have the access and visibility that the mayor has?” said Selaedin Maksut, executive director, CAIR. Khairullah, born in Syria, immigrated to the US in 1991 and became a permanent citizen in 2000, having lived in Prospect Park since. He was elected as the town's mayor in 2001 and has spent 14 years as a volunteer firefighter in the community. ALSO READ | US: At least six killed, dozens injured after dust storm in Illinois causes highway pileup Notably, during his address to the attendants at the White House gathering, Biden said he was committed to helping Muslim communities and that their culture was "woven throughout American culture". "At this point, we look ahead to the work that remains. We remember Muslim communities around the world that are enduring conflict, poverty, hunger, disease, and those that are displaced from their homes. And we recommit to the tireless work of building peace and standing up for the rights and dignity of all people. All people." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Secret Service turns away Muslim mayor from Biden's Eid celebrations

United States President Joe Biden on Saturday (April 29) used the White House Correspondents' Dinner to highlight the free press and called for the release of journalists and citizens, who are detained abroad.

Biden said, "Let me start on a serious note, members of our administration are here to send a message to the country and, quite frankly, to the world. The free press is a pillar, maybe the pillar of a free society, not the enemy."

Biden mentioned the family of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, who was arrested in Russia last month after being&nbsp;accused of espionage, but US officials deny the allegations. A media campaign has also been launched, asking Russia to release him as soon as possible.&nbsp;

News agencies have reported that Gershkovich is the first known foreign journalist arrested in Russia on spying charges since the collapse of the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

Biden praised Gershkovich's courage and said, "Evan went to Russia to shed light on the darkness that you escaped from years ago." He noted that "tonight our message is this: journalism is not a crime". &nbsp;

Biden also noted that the authorities are "working every day to secure his release" and they are "looking at opportunities and tools to bring him home". The US president said, "We keep the faith."&nbsp;

Ties between US and Russia have worsened in the past 12 months after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this week, Russia said it had denied a consular visit to Gershkovich in retaliation for Washington not issuing visas to several Russian journalists.&nbsp;

Biden also mentioned Debra Tice, who is the mother of Austin Tice, a journalist been held captive in Syria for more than 10 years. He said, "Evan and Austin should be released immediately, along with every American held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad."&nbsp;

He also mentioned basketball player Brittney Griner, who was released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap last year. Griner was also among the dinner's prominent attendees.&nbsp;

He also mentioned Paul Whelan, the former US marine who is presently held in Russia, and pledged to Whelan's family that he and his government would not relent until Whelan was released.&nbsp;

Apart from the serious issues, Biden also told some jokes at the occasion, which was meant to celebrate the Constitution's First Amendment guarantees of free speech and to advocate for a free press worldwide. Biden made fun of his age as he said, "I believe in the First Amendment. Not just because my good friend Jimmy Madison wrote it."

He added,&nbsp;“Look, I get that age is a completely reasonable issue. It's in everybody's mind and by everyone, I mean the New York Times. Headline: ‘Biden's advanced age is a big issue. Trump's, however, is not’.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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United States President Joe Biden on Saturday (April 29) used the White House Correspondents' Dinner to highlight the free press and called for the release of journalists and citizens, who are detained abroad.

United States President Joe Biden on Saturday (April 29) used the White House Correspondents' Dinner to highlight the free press and called for the release of journalists and citizens, who are detained abroad. Biden said, "Let me start on a serious note, members of our administration are here to send a message to the country and, quite frankly, to the world. The free press is a pillar, maybe the pillar of a free society, not the enemy." Biden mentioned the family of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, who was arrested in Russia last month after being accused of espionage, but US officials deny the allegations. A media campaign has also been launched, asking Russia to release him as soon as possible. News agencies have reported that Gershkovich is the first known foreign journalist arrested in Russia on spying charges since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Biden praised Gershkovich's courage and said, "Evan went to Russia to shed light on the darkness that you escaped from years ago." He noted that "tonight our message is this: journalism is not a crime". Biden also noted that the authorities are "working every day to secure his release" and they are "looking at opportunities and tools to bring him home". The US president said, "We keep the faith." Ties between US and Russia have worsened in the past 12 months after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this week, Russia said it had denied a consular visit to Gershkovich in retaliation for Washington not issuing visas to several Russian journalists. Biden also mentioned Debra Tice, who is the mother of Austin Tice, a journalist been held captive in Syria for more than 10 years. He said, "Evan and Austin should be released immediately, along with every American held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad." He also mentioned basketball player Brittney Griner, who was released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap last year. Griner was also among the dinner's prominent attendees. He also mentioned Paul Whelan, the former US marine who is presently held in Russia, and pledged to Whelan's family that he and his government would not relent until Whelan was released. Apart from the serious issues, Biden also told some jokes at the occasion, which was meant to celebrate the Constitution's First Amendment guarantees of free speech and to advocate for a free press worldwide. Biden made fun of his age as he said, "I believe in the First Amendment. Not just because my good friend Jimmy Madison wrote it." He added, “Look, I get that age is a completely reasonable issue. It's in everybody's mind and by everyone, I mean the New York Times. Headline: ‘Biden's advanced age is a big issue. Trump's, however, is not’.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Journalism is not a crime’: Biden calls for release of journalists held around the world

The White House said it is monitoring the situation at First Republic Bank. The US commercial bank is struggling after the banking crisis in March.

White House monitoring US banking woes

The Bring a Kid to Work Day was celebrated at the White House Thursday where kids stole the show donning garbs like that of secret service agents.&nbsp;

The day is an annual event held in the US on the 4th Thursday of April. This year's theme was "Working Better Together" and it is marked every year to encourage children to explore the many possibilities that the future holds. It provides American kids with a look into the working world.

But this event was not untouched by yet another gaffe by US President Joe Biden when, during a Thursday event at the White House, he was unable to recall the last country he had visited and needed to be reminded by a kid.

"What was the last country you travelled to," one child asked.&nbsp;

"The last country I've traveled — I'm trying to think the last one I was in — I, I've been to 89 — I've met with 89 heads of state so far, so, uh — I'm trying to think. What was the last — Where was the last place I was? It's hard to keep track. Um, I was — " Biden stuttered. "Ireland!" another child shouted.

"Yeah, you're right, Ireland," Biden said adding, "That's where it was. How'd you know that?"

On this, the kid replied saying he was also going to Ireland. Notably, Biden visited Ireland earlier this month. 
 
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-army-rsf-agree-to-extend-truce-by-72-hours-586826">Sudanese army, RSF agree to extend truce by 72 hours</a>

US President Joe Biden welcomed dozens of children for Take Our Kids to Work Day at the White House. He was seen chatting with children casually on topics ranging from his breakfast to what his work involves all day.

His remarks started with extending thanks to the kids 'Secret Service agents' who walked him out at the venue and also to all the other kids for bringing their parents to work.&nbsp;

He joked, "When you’re President and they say, “Joe Biden is out in the waiting room coming to see you, promise me you won’t say, ‘Joe who?’” &nbsp;(Laughter.) &nbsp;You’ll remember me, okay?"

The conversation between Biden and the kids was filled with good humour and laughter as kids showed up with a plethora of questions for POTUS.&nbsp;

One child named Hadley asked Biden, "What’s it like being President?"

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-may-restrict-export-of-semiconductor-supplies-to-china-report-586820">Germany may restrict export of semiconductor supplies to China: Report</a>

Biden replied, "Well, first of all, it’s probably the greatest honor anyone in America can have bestowed on them, number one. Number two, one of the best parts is — and I mean this sincerely — you get to meet so many different people. And number three, it also means that you live in this house. &nbsp;It’s not a bad place to live, you know? And number four, you get to meet folks like you. &nbsp;And I really mean it."&nbsp;

Kids at the event curiously engaged with Biden asking him questions such as his favourite ice cream flavour and how he became president of the United States.&nbsp;

One kid asked, "Why did you want to become the President?"

Watch | Gravitas: This Canadian chef sold poison to suicidal youngsters

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Biden replied talking at length about the laws for African Americans and the Civil Rights Movement. "Well, you know, when I was younger, 120 years ago — (laughter) — when — when I was younger, I was in — I lived in a state that — it was very hard for African Americans to have a fair chance. &nbsp;It was segregated by law."

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Happening Now: President Biden welcomes families to the White House for Take Your Child to Work Day. <a href="https://t.co/hsR0SDSmZB">https://t.co/hsR0SDSmZB</a>
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1651628038537322506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"And so, as a high school student, I got involved in what was called the Civil Rights Movement. &nbsp;And so, one of the things that was happening in my state was we were trying to get people to run to fight for civil rights, and we were having trouble getting that many people to run the — when I started off. &nbsp;And they asked me to run."&nbsp;

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The Bring a Kid to Work Day was celebrated at the White House Thursday where kids stole the show donning garbs like that of secret service agents. The day is an annual event held in the US on the 4th Thursday of April.

The Bring a Kid to Work Day was celebrated at the White House Thursday where kids stole the show donning garbs like that of secret service agents. The day is an annual event held in the US on the 4th Thursday of April. This year's theme was "Working Better Together" and it is marked every year to encourage children to explore the many possibilities that the future holds. It provides American kids with a look into the working world. But this event was not untouched by yet another gaffe by US President Joe Biden when, during a Thursday event at the White House, he was unable to recall the last country he had visited and needed to be reminded by a kid. "What was the last country you travelled to," one child asked. "The last country I've traveled — I'm trying to think the last one I was in — I, I've been to 89 — I've met with 89 heads of state so far, so, uh — I'm trying to think. What was the last — Where was the last place I was? It's hard to keep track. Um, I was — " Biden stuttered. "Ireland!" another child shouted. "Yeah, you're right, Ireland," Biden said adding, "That's where it was. How'd you know that?" On this, the kid replied saying he was also going to Ireland. Notably, Biden visited Ireland earlier this month. Also Read | Sudanese army, RSF agree to extend truce by 72 hours US President Joe Biden welcomed dozens of children for Take Our Kids to Work Day at the White House. He was seen chatting with children casually on topics ranging from his breakfast to what his work involves all day. His remarks started with extending thanks to the kids 'Secret Service agents' who walked him out at the venue and also to all the other kids for bringing their parents to work. He joked, "When you’re President and they say, “Joe Biden is out in the waiting room coming to see you, promise me you won’t say, ‘Joe who?’” (Laughter.) You’ll remember me, okay?" The conversation between Biden and the kids was filled with good humour and laughter as kids showed up with a plethora of questions for POTUS. One child named Hadley asked Biden, "What’s it like being President?" Also Read | Germany may restrict export of semiconductor supplies to China: Report Biden replied, "Well, first of all, it’s probably the greatest honor anyone in America can have bestowed on them, number one. Number two, one of the best parts is — and I mean this sincerely — you get to meet so many different people. And number three, it also means that you live in this house. It’s not a bad place to live, you know? And number four, you get to meet folks like you. And I really mean it." Kids at the event curiously engaged with Biden asking him questions such as his favourite ice cream flavour and how he became president of the United States. One kid asked, "Why did you want to become the President?" Watch | Gravitas: This Canadian chef sold poison to suicidal youngsters × Biden replied talking at length about the laws for African Americans and the Civil Rights Movement. "Well, you know, when I was younger, 120 years ago — (laughter) — when — when I was younger, I was in — I lived in a state that — it was very hard for African Americans to have a fair chance. It was segregated by law." Happening Now: President Biden welcomes families to the White House for Take Your Child to Work Day. https://t.co/hsR0SDSmZB — The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 27, 2023 × "And so, as a high school student, I got involved in what was called the Civil Rights Movement. And so, one of the things that was happening in my state was we were trying to get people to run to fight for civil rights, and we were having trouble getting that many people to run the — when I started off. And they asked me to run." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden's new gaffe at White House event 'Take Your Child to Work Day'

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Jesus was single, says the Church of England as it vouches inclusivity for the unmarried, US President Joe Biden to recall Ireland trip while interacting with children at the White House, Shirdi temple authorities deny shutdown report, Moscow decreases Petroleum discount for India.

Jesus was single: Church of England; Biden struggles to recall Ireland trip | Trending on WION

Nearly a week after Pakistan announced it had placed its first order for discounted Russian crude oil, the USA has said it has no problem and will not oppose the deal.

Nearly a week after Pakistan announced it had placed its first order for discounted Russian crude oil, the USA has said it has no problem and will not oppose the deal. US State Department’s Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said the White House had left the door open for such purchases even though it had placed restrictions on Russian oil after the Ukraine invasion last year. “Look, each country is going to make its own sovereign decisions as it relates to its energy supply,” said Patel. “One of the reasons that the United States, through the G7, has been a big proponent of the price cap is to ensure that steps are not being taken to keep Russian energy off the market because we understand that there is a demand for supply." In December last year, the G7 and EU countries set a price cap of $60 per barrel on Russian oil. Even then, US stated Pakistan can purchase oil from Russia despite not signing the Washington-backed price cap. “But we also need to take steps to ensure that Russian energy markets are not turning out to be a windfall for [President] Putin’s war machine,” Mr Patel warned. “And so, again, countries will make their own sovereign decisions. We have never tried to keep Russian energy off the market," he added. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? × While the West, especially the US imposes heavy sanctions on Moscow, President Vladimir Putin has been selling oil at discounted prices to countries such as India and China. Pakistan places the order With Pakistan reeling under a severe economic crisis, the leaders in Islamabad finally decided to take the plunge to order Russian oil earlier this week. Under the deal, Pakistan will buy only crude, not refined fuels, informed Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik. Imports are expected to reach 100,000 barrels per day (bpd ALSO READ | Pakistan purchases first cargo of discounted Russian oil The 100,000 bpd from Russia should significantly reduce Pakistan's dependence on fuel from the Middle East. Currently, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are the main suppliers of crude to Islamabad. According to statistics from analytics company Kpler, Islamabad bought 154,000 bpd of oil in 2022, roughly maintaining the level from the previous year. Notably, Pakistan has been negotiating the release of $1.1 billion tranche of a $6.5 billion bailout package from International Monetary Fund (IMF) to avoid defaulting. Despite securing financing from UAE and Saudi Arabia to meet the pre-conditions laid down by the monetary body, it will take some time for the money to roll in. Until then, Russia's discounted oil may allow Islamabad to breathe a little bit easy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

White House responds to Pakistan purchasing discounted Russian oil

US President Joe Biden’s domestic policy advisor Susan Rice is set to vacate her office next month amidst massive controversy around immigration policy. According to NBC News, she helped the Biden administration shape USA’s policies regarding immigration, health, gun rights and student loans.

US President Joe Biden’s domestic policy advisor Susan Rice is set to vacate her office next month amidst massive controversy around immigration policy. According to NBC News, she helped the Biden administration shape USA’s policies regarding immigration, health, gun rights and student loans. However, NBC has quoted the White House officials as saying that there was no link between Rice’s departure and the controversies around her portfolio. Why has Susan Rice left the Biden administration? Her departure comes amid growing concerns over the White House’s treatment of migrant children who come unaccompanied at the country’s southern border. It is alleged that the current US policy is encouraging migrant parents to send their children northward. Later, the children end up in punishable jobs in violation of the country’s labour laws. Earlier, a New York Times report revealed that the sponsors of these migrant children were forcing these unaccompanied children into doing gruesome jobs. The NY Times reported, “All along, there were signs of the explosive growth of this labor force and warnings that the Biden administration ignored or missed.” The target of these massive allegations was none other than Susan Rice, who oversees the country’s domestic policies. Susan Rice’s clash with other White House officials NBC News has reported that Susan also had clashes with other Biden White House officials over the thorniest issue of all surrounding her work in the administration—Immigration. She locked horns with Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra over the handling of the migrants at the country’s border. White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain even said her style was sometimes intimidating for her colleagues. He said, “Susan is blunt and direct, and some people find that style effective; some people I think are intimidated by it.” Administration officials react to Susan Rice’s departure While the administration officials lauded Rice’s efforts to “take the Domestic Policy Council to new heights”, they clearly denied any link between her departure and the child labour controversy. One senior official said, “Rice has told colleagues she entered the administration intending to stay two years.” They suggest that the departure of Susan Rice was already in the works. Also Read | US-India ties: US President Joe Biden to visit India in September Now, candidates from inside and outside the White House will be considered in the selection process by Biden for Rice's successor. Whoever the president chooses to be his next domestic policy advisor, his/her term will be tasked with enforcing current programmes and taking a few additional executive measures. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Why did Susan Rice quit the Biden administration? Know about her clashes with other WH officials

US President Joe Biden is not leaving any stone unturned to achieve a successful outcome in the 2024 Presidential Elections. In its efforts to reach out to a young electorate, the White House could create a separate briefing space for new-age media influencers. The briefing room is to be on similar lines as the existing press briefing room. President Joe Biden, who is yet to announce his re-election bid, is taking all preparatory measures needed to return to the White House. Biden’s digital strategy team has promised social media celebrities their very own briefing room in the White House.

US President Biden to reach young voters through new age influencers

The White House joined other US institutions in refusing to pay for the Twitter Blue subscription service. On Friday, White House Director of Digital Strategy Rob Flaherty informed the staff via email that they would have to pay for the subscription out of their pocket if they wish so, according to Axios.

“It is our understanding that Twitter Blue does not provide person-level verification as a service,” Flaherty said.

“Thus, a blue check mark will now simply serve as a verification that the account is a paid user. Staff may purchase Twitter Blue on their personal social media accounts using personal funds,” he added.

However, Axios report noted that the guidance doesn’t apply to government agencies, but there might be a possibility that other agencies and departments would be given similar directives in the future.

White House&nbsp;officials rely on their verified accounts to disseminate information to the public on behalf of the administration. Verification, combined with the designated Twitter profiles, helped maintain the authenticity of those messages&nbsp;that were trusted by the people.

<h2>Twitter to remove all unpaid blue ticks from April 1</h2>

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The pushback against the Blue badge subscription comes in response to Twitter planning to shut down its legacy verified programme, removing blue checkmarks from accounts that don’t sign up for its $8 per month Twitter Blue service. The changes take effect from April 1.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-to-checkmark-badges-nyt-la-times-politico-and-other-major-news-outlets-reject-twitters-blue-tick-577519">&nbsp;No to checkmark badges: NYT, LA Times, Politico, and other major news outlets reject Twitter's blue tick</a>

Whereas official organisations, such as the White House and some government officials, will continue to have grey check mark verification, Twitter said.

The verified account feature was introduced in 2009 to help users identify the genuine accounts of celebrities, politicians, companies and brands, news organisations and other accounts "of public interest". Twitter didn't previously charge for the service.

However, after Elon Musk took over the company in October 2022, he described the old verification system as “corrupt”.

"Far too many corrupt legacy Blue ‘verification’ checkmarks exist, so no choice but to remove legacy Blue in coming months", he had tweeted in November.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The White House joined other US institutions in refusing to pay for the Twitter Blue subscription service. On Friday, White House Director of Digital Strategy Rob Flaherty informed the staff via email that they would have to pay for the subscription out of their pocket if they wish so, according to Axios.

The White House joined other US institutions in refusing to pay for the Twitter Blue subscription service. On Friday, White House Director of Digital Strategy Rob Flaherty informed the staff via email that they would have to pay for the subscription out of their pocket if they wish so, according to Axios. “It is our understanding that Twitter Blue does not provide person-level verification as a service,” Flaherty said. “Thus, a blue check mark will now simply serve as a verification that the account is a paid user. Staff may purchase Twitter Blue on their personal social media accounts using personal funds,” he added. However, Axios report noted that the guidance doesn’t apply to government agencies, but there might be a possibility that other agencies and departments would be given similar directives in the future. White House officials rely on their verified accounts to disseminate information to the public on behalf of the administration. Verification, combined with the designated Twitter profiles, helped maintain the authenticity of those messages that were trusted by the people. Twitter to remove all unpaid blue ticks from April 1 The pushback against the Blue badge subscription comes in response to Twitter planning to shut down its legacy verified programme, removing blue checkmarks from accounts that don’t sign up for its $8 per month Twitter Blue service. The changes take effect from April 1. Also read | No to checkmark badges: NYT, LA Times, Politico, and other major news outlets reject Twitter's blue tick Whereas official organisations, such as the White House and some government officials, will continue to have grey check mark verification, Twitter said. The verified account feature was introduced in 2009 to help users identify the genuine accounts of celebrities, politicians, companies and brands, news organisations and other accounts "of public interest". Twitter didn't previously charge for the service. However, after Elon Musk took over the company in October 2022, he described the old verification system as “corrupt”. "Far too many corrupt legacy Blue ‘verification’ checkmarks exist, so no choice but to remove legacy Blue in coming months", he had tweeted in November. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House refuses to pay for its employees’ Twitter Blue verification

US President Joe Biden has criticised the Israel Judicial Reforms and said that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is not welcome in the White House. Netanyahu has now snapped back at Biden. Will this lead to severed ties between the two allies? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Netanyahu snaps back at Joe Biden criticism

People who identify as gay in Uganda risk life in prison after Parliament passed a new bill to crack down on Homosexual activities. It also includes the death penalty in certain cases. That move has drawn various reactions. White House warned members of Uganda’s parliament that sanctions restricting them from doing business with the US could be on the way for those responsible for the passage of the law.

Ugandan anti-Gay bill causes

The United States President Joe Biden hosted Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar at the White House on St. Patrick's Day. Both leaders expressed support for the UK-EU deal on post-Brexit trade rules. The Irish Prime Minister's trip comes ahead of Biden's unexpected trip to Ireland.

U.S. President Biden hosts Irish Prime Minister Varadkar, express support for UK-EU deal

United States President Joe Biden is planning to host a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this summer at the White House, said a Bloomberg report citing unnamed Washington officials.

The state dinner might take place in either June or July, but there is no confirmation on the timing. An official comment in this regard is awaited.

If it takes place, this will be the third dinner for President Biden, after the one he hosted for French President Emmanuel Macron in December, and the other one for South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol scheduled for April 26.

The formal state visit reflects the further strengthening of the US-India relationship, which has taken new heights recently as the Biden administration shifts focus towards for a free Indo-Pacific to counter China’s growing influence.

Biden and Modi are also scheduled to meet in India for the G20 summit in September in the capital New Delhi, where the topic of discussion will largely veer towards the Russia-Ukraine war.

Though there is no official confirmation whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend the gathering, Bloomberg, quoting Russian officials, earlier this month reported that the summit will likely see the attendance of the 70-year-old leader.

Both leaders are also expected to meet in Australia in May at the Quad summit along with the leaders of Australia and Japan.

Last Friday, India and the US on Friday signed a pact on setting up a semiconductor supply chain and innovation partnership in India, and establishing a semiconductor sub-committee under the framework of the India-US Commercial Dialogue.

The cooperation on semiconductors comes against the backdrop of the shortage of such chips, which had serious consequences and caused supply disruption in automobiles and electronics in both countries, particularly after the outbreak of COVID-19.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden is planning to host a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this summer at the White House, said a Bloomberg report citing unnamed Washington officials.

United States President Joe Biden is planning to host a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this summer at the White House, said a Bloomberg report citing unnamed Washington officials. The state dinner might take place in either June or July, but there is no confirmation on the timing. An official comment in this regard is awaited. If it takes place, this will be the third dinner for President Biden, after the one he hosted for French President Emmanuel Macron in December, and the other one for South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol scheduled for April 26. The formal state visit reflects the further strengthening of the US-India relationship, which has taken new heights recently as the Biden administration shifts focus towards for a free Indo-Pacific to counter China’s growing influence. Biden and Modi are also scheduled to meet in India for the G20 summit in September in the capital New Delhi, where the topic of discussion will largely veer towards the Russia-Ukraine war. Though there is no official confirmation whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend the gathering, Bloomberg, quoting Russian officials, earlier this month reported that the summit will likely see the attendance of the 70-year-old leader. Both leaders are also expected to meet in Australia in May at the Quad summit along with the leaders of Australia and Japan. Last Friday, India and the US on Friday signed a pact on setting up a semiconductor supply chain and innovation partnership in India, and establishing a semiconductor sub-committee under the framework of the India-US Commercial Dialogue. The cooperation on semiconductors comes against the backdrop of the shortage of such chips, which had serious consequences and caused supply disruption in automobiles and electronics in both countries, particularly after the outbreak of COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US President Joe Biden planning to host state dinner for Indian PM Narendra Modi: Report

The White House on Monday asked former Vice President Mike Pence to apologize for what it called a 'homophobic joke' aimed at Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

White House demands Pence apologise for 'homophobic joke' aimed at Buttigieg

The White House, commenting on the latest barrage of Russian missiles launched targeting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, on Thursday called the attack "brutal" and "unjustified."

It is "devastating to see these brutal, unjustified attacks on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine," said Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton aboard Air Force One.

Russia on Thursday showered a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, in which six people were killed and the war-torn country faced a wave of power cuts, even at the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bakhmut-may-fall-into-russian-hands-in-coming-days-nato-chief-570005">Bakhmut may fall within days, must not underestimate Russia: NATO chief</a>

Giving a warning UN nuclear agency's chief said that next time "luck will run out" as he referred to the danger of repeated electricity outages at the Zaporizhzhia facility in Ukraine.

Russia said that the missile strikes were in response to the border incursion that happened earlier this month and expressed its doubt over the vital UN-brokered grain deal's extension, saying that its renewal will be discussed with the UN on Monday.

The missile attacks led to the first civilian deaths in the western Lviv region which was considered comparatively safe and far away from the front lines, as intense fighting continued in the town of Bakhmut in the east.

The shocked villagers living in Velyka Vilshanytsia, which is a small village outside Lviv, searched through the rubble as Ukrainian officials informed them that five people were killed by a Russian missile around 120 kilometres (75 miles) from the Polish border.

WATCH | Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war?

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"We thought we were safe here," Oksana Ostapenko, a resident whose sister and two brothers-in-law died in the attack, said.

Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that two people suffered injuries on Thursday and 40 per cent of the population was in a black out for several hours.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House, commenting on the latest barrage of Russian missiles launched targeting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, on Thursday called the attack "brutal" and "unjustified.

The White House, commenting on the latest barrage of Russian missiles launched targeting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, on Thursday called the attack "brutal" and "unjustified." It is "devastating to see these brutal, unjustified attacks on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine," said Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton aboard Air Force One. Russia on Thursday showered a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, in which six people were killed and the war-torn country faced a wave of power cuts, even at the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe. ALSO READ | Bakhmut may fall within days, must not underestimate Russia: NATO chief Giving a warning UN nuclear agency's chief said that next time "luck will run out" as he referred to the danger of repeated electricity outages at the Zaporizhzhia facility in Ukraine. Russia said that the missile strikes were in response to the border incursion that happened earlier this month and expressed its doubt over the vital UN-brokered grain deal's extension, saying that its renewal will be discussed with the UN on Monday. The missile attacks led to the first civilian deaths in the western Lviv region which was considered comparatively safe and far away from the front lines, as intense fighting continued in the town of Bakhmut in the east. The shocked villagers living in Velyka Vilshanytsia, which is a small village outside Lviv, searched through the rubble as Ukrainian officials informed them that five people were killed by a Russian missile around 120 kilometres (75 miles) from the Polish border. WATCH | Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war? "We thought we were safe here," Oksana Ostapenko, a resident whose sister and two brothers-in-law died in the attack, said. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that two people suffered injuries on Thursday and 40 per cent of the population was in a black out for several hours. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House calls latest barrage of Russian missile on Ukraine 'brutal, unjustified'

The White House welcomed a bill on Tuesday allowing the US administration to ban Chinese-owned video-sharing app TikTok, said US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement.

The bill was supported by the Democratic party's senior senator Mark Warner and South Dakota Republican John Thune, in an act of political entente by the lawmakers.

"We applaud the bipartisan group of senators, led by Senators Warner and Thune, who today introduced the Restricting the Emergence of Security Threats that Risk Information and Communications Technology Act," said Sullivan.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-may-be-targetted-in-a-us-bill-to-ban-some-foreign-tech-senator-568965">TikTok may be targetted in a US bill to ban some foreign tech: Senator</a>

The bipartisan bill "would empower the United States government to prevent certain foreign governments from exploiting technology services... in a way that poses risks to Americans' sensitive data and our national security," he added in a statement.

"Today, the threat that everyone is talking about is TikTok, and how it could enable surveillance by the Chinese Communist Party, or facilitate the spread of malign influence campaigns in the US," said Senator Warner in a statement.

"Before TikTok, however, it was Huawei and ZTE, which threatened our nation's telecommunications networks. And before that, it was Russia's Kaspersky Lab, which threatened the security of government and corporate devices," he added.

Chinese firm ByteDance owns TikTok, which has more than a billion users across the world, which includes over 100 million in the US.

WATCH | TikTok in the US: TikTok's attempts to reassure government, security concerns surrounding the app

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Reacting to the bill, TikTok pointed to its months-long negotiations with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), which is a government agency that understands the foreign investments' risk to US national security.

"The Biden Administration does not need additional authority from Congress to address national security concerns about TikTok: It can approve the deal negotiated with CFIUS over two years that it has spent the last six months reviewing," TikTok spokesperson Brooke Oberwetter said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House welcomed a bill on Tuesday allowing the US administration to ban Chinese-owned video-sharing app TikTok, said US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement.

The White House welcomed a bill on Tuesday allowing the US administration to ban Chinese-owned video-sharing app TikTok, said US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement. The bill was supported by the Democratic party's senior senator Mark Warner and South Dakota Republican John Thune, in an act of political entente by the lawmakers. "We applaud the bipartisan group of senators, led by Senators Warner and Thune, who today introduced the Restricting the Emergence of Security Threats that Risk Information and Communications Technology Act," said Sullivan. ALSO READ | TikTok may be targetted in a US bill to ban some foreign tech: Senator The bipartisan bill "would empower the United States government to prevent certain foreign governments from exploiting technology services... in a way that poses risks to Americans' sensitive data and our national security," he added in a statement. "Today, the threat that everyone is talking about is TikTok, and how it could enable surveillance by the Chinese Communist Party, or facilitate the spread of malign influence campaigns in the US," said Senator Warner in a statement. "Before TikTok, however, it was Huawei and ZTE, which threatened our nation's telecommunications networks. And before that, it was Russia's Kaspersky Lab, which threatened the security of government and corporate devices," he added. Chinese firm ByteDance owns TikTok, which has more than a billion users across the world, which includes over 100 million in the US. WATCH | TikTok in the US: TikTok's attempts to reassure government, security concerns surrounding the app Reacting to the bill, TikTok pointed to its months-long negotiations with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), which is a government agency that understands the foreign investments' risk to US national security. "The Biden Administration does not need additional authority from Congress to address national security concerns about TikTok: It can approve the deal negotiated with CFIUS over two years that it has spent the last six months reviewing," TikTok spokesperson Brooke Oberwetter said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House welcomes bill allowing ban on TikTok

US Senator Mark Warner said on Sunday (March 5) that Chinese-owned short video platform TikTok may be targetted in a legislation two US senators are planning to introduce. The legislation is aimed at letting the government "ban or prohibit" foreign tech products. Warner is chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. He added that TikTok would be "one of the potentials" for review.

The bill comes at a time when TikTok is under intensifying pressure over concerns that data about US users could end up in the hands of the Chinese government.

The US House Foreign Affairs Committee voted on Wednesday to give President Joe Biden the power to ban TikTok, in what would be the most far-reaching US restriction on any social media app.

Last week, the White House gave 30 days to government agencies to ensure that TikTok was not on any federal devices and systems.

Warner said he was concerned that TikTok "can be a propaganda tool" based on the types of videos it sends to users.

He said the bill he plans to introduce "would say, in terms of foreign technology coming into America, we've got to have a systematic approach to make sure we can ban or prohibit it when necessary."

He said he planned to introduce the legislation this week with Republican Senator John Thune. A spokesperson for Warner said they expected to make an announcement on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Senator Mark Warner said on Sunday (March 5) that Chinese-owned short video platform TikTok may be targetted in a legislation two US senators are planning to introduce.

US Senator Mark Warner said on Sunday (March 5) that Chinese-owned short video platform TikTok may be targetted in a legislation two US senators are planning to introduce. The legislation is aimed at letting the government "ban or prohibit" foreign tech products. Warner is chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. He added that TikTok would be "one of the potentials" for review. The bill comes at a time when TikTok is under intensifying pressure over concerns that data about US users could end up in the hands of the Chinese government. The US House Foreign Affairs Committee voted on Wednesday to give President Joe Biden the power to ban TikTok, in what would be the most far-reaching US restriction on any social media app. Last week, the White House gave 30 days to government agencies to ensure that TikTok was not on any federal devices and systems. Warner said he was concerned that TikTok "can be a propaganda tool" based on the types of videos it sends to users. He said the bill he plans to introduce "would say, in terms of foreign technology coming into America, we've got to have a systematic approach to make sure we can ban or prohibit it when necessary." He said he planned to introduce the legislation this week with Republican Senator John Thune. A spokesperson for Warner said they expected to make an announcement on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

TikTok may be targetted in a US bill to ban some foreign tech: Senator

On Monday,&nbsp;South Korea announced plans to compensate victims of Japan's forced wartime labour, aiming to end a vicious cycle in the Asian country and to boost its ties to counter nuclear-armed North&nbsp;Korea.&nbsp;

This move tries to resolve the forced labour following years of disputes over World War II sex slaves, which soured Japan-South Korean ties, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-sweats-over-food-shortage-holds-rare-meeting-on-agricultural-practices-566697">Also read |&nbsp;North Korea's Kim Jong Un sweats over food shortage, holds rare meeting on agricultural practices</a>

Foreign Minister Park Jin said that Seoul's plan is to take money from major South Korean companies that benefited from the 1965 reparations deal with Tokyo and will use it to compensate victims.&nbsp;

Park added, "I believe that the vicious circle should be broken for the sake of the people at the national interest level."

The Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi also praised the plan and said that this initiative would help&nbsp;restore "healthy" ties between the two countries after years of tensions.&nbsp;

According to the statement issued by the White House, Washington hailed the decision and called it a "groundbreaking new chapter of cooperation and partnership between two of the United States' closest allies."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-holds-rare-meeting-on-agriculture-sounds-alarm-over-food-shortage-566908">Also read |&nbsp;North Korean leader Kim holds rare meeting on agriculture amid reports of food shortage in country</a>

While the announcement was welcomed by both Japan and the United States, the victims have criticised the proposal as it falls far short of their demand which is a full apology from Tokyo and direct compensation from the Japanese companies involved.

According to data from Seoul, around 780,000 Koreans were conscripted into forced labour by Tokyo during the 35-year occupation. This does not include women who were forced into sexual slavery by Japanese troops.

The move comes as Seoul and Tokyo already ramped up their security cooperation amid growing threats from North Korea, but the bilateral ties remained strained over Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula.&nbsp;

Tokyo has insisted on the 1965 treaty- which saw the two countries restore their diplomatic ties with a reparations package of about $800 million in grants and cheap loans and settled all loans between the two relating to the colonial period.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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On Monday, South Korea announced plans to compensate victims of Japan's forced wartime labour, aiming to end a vicious cycle in the Asian country and to boost its ties to counter nuclear-armed North Korea.

On Monday, South Korea announced plans to compensate victims of Japan's forced wartime labour, aiming to end a vicious cycle in the Asian country and to boost its ties to counter nuclear-armed North Korea. This move tries to resolve the forced labour following years of disputes over World War II sex slaves, which soured Japan-South Korean ties, AFP reported. Also read | North Korea's Kim Jong Un sweats over food shortage, holds rare meeting on agricultural practices Foreign Minister Park Jin said that Seoul's plan is to take money from major South Korean companies that benefited from the 1965 reparations deal with Tokyo and will use it to compensate victims. Park added, "I believe that the vicious circle should be broken for the sake of the people at the national interest level." The Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi also praised the plan and said that this initiative would help restore "healthy" ties between the two countries after years of tensions. According to the statement issued by the White House, Washington hailed the decision and called it a "groundbreaking new chapter of cooperation and partnership between two of the United States' closest allies." Also read | North Korean leader Kim holds rare meeting on agriculture amid reports of food shortage in country While the announcement was welcomed by both Japan and the United States, the victims have criticised the proposal as it falls far short of their demand which is a full apology from Tokyo and direct compensation from the Japanese companies involved. According to data from Seoul, around 780,000 Koreans were conscripted into forced labour by Tokyo during the 35-year occupation. This does not include women who were forced into sexual slavery by Japanese troops. The move comes as Seoul and Tokyo already ramped up their security cooperation amid growing threats from North Korea, but the bilateral ties remained strained over Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula. Tokyo has insisted on the 1965 treaty- which saw the two countries restore their diplomatic ties with a reparations package of about $800 million in grants and cheap loans and settled all loans between the two relating to the colonial period. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea offers compensation for victims of Japan's wartime forced labour; US hails 'groundbreaking' plan

The White House on Friday said that United States President Joe Biden had a cancerous skin lesion removed last month, during his routine health screening. The president in the beginning of February had a physical exam which the White House said found him healthy and "fit for duty".

According to Guardian, Biden's physician Kevin O'Connor in a letter released to the press said, "All cancerous tissue was successfully removed. The area around the biopsy site was treated presumptively with electrodessication and curettage at the time of the biopsy. No further treatment is required."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-appoints-two-prominent-indian-american-corporate-leaders-to-his-export-council-567225">Also read |&nbsp;Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council</a>

However, the 80-year-old fit president has healed nicely after the treatment and will continue dermatologic surveillance as a part of his healthcare, the doctor added.&nbsp;

The letter also mentioned that the type of cancer found — basal cell carcinoma — does not spread generally.&nbsp;

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said basal and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancers in the US.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/superbugs-could-be-as-big-a-killer-as-cancer-is-today-by-2050-un-report-559942">Also read |&nbsp;Superbugs could be as big a killer as cancer is today by 2050: UN report</a>

The US Skin Cancer Foundation said that almost 3.6 million Americans&nbsp;are diagnosed every year with basal, and it is one of the most frequently occurring forms of all cancers, BBC reported.&nbsp;

Biden had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed in the past before he became the president of the US.&nbsp;

Similarly, back in January, First Lady Jill Biden had three lesions removed, two of which later tested positive for basal cell carcinoma.&nbsp;

Doctors advise that the best way to prevent skin cancer is to cover up and wear sunscreen lotions, even during winters.&nbsp;

This comes as the president is all set to announce his run for the 2024 elections.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The White House on Friday said that United States President Joe Biden had a cancerous skin lesion removed last month, during his routine health screening. The president in the beginning of February had a physical exam which the White House said found him healthy and "fit for duty".

The White House on Friday said that United States President Joe Biden had a cancerous skin lesion removed last month, during his routine health screening. The president in the beginning of February had a physical exam which the White House said found him healthy and "fit for duty". According to Guardian, Biden's physician Kevin O'Connor in a letter released to the press said, "All cancerous tissue was successfully removed. The area around the biopsy site was treated presumptively with electrodessication and curettage at the time of the biopsy. No further treatment is required." Also read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council However, the 80-year-old fit president has healed nicely after the treatment and will continue dermatologic surveillance as a part of his healthcare, the doctor added. The letter also mentioned that the type of cancer found — basal cell carcinoma — does not spread generally. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said basal and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancers in the US. Also read | Superbugs could be as big a killer as cancer is today by 2050: UN report The US Skin Cancer Foundation said that almost 3.6 million Americans are diagnosed every year with basal, and it is one of the most frequently occurring forms of all cancers, BBC reported. Biden had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed in the past before he became the president of the US. Similarly, back in January, First Lady Jill Biden had three lesions removed, two of which later tested positive for basal cell carcinoma. Doctors advise that the best way to prevent skin cancer is to cover up and wear sunscreen lotions, even during winters. This comes as the president is all set to announce his run for the 2024 elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Cancerous skin lesion on President Joe Biden's chest removed, no treatment required: White House

The US federal agencies have been given 30 days ultimatum by the White House to ensure no government devices and systems have the Chinese video sharing app TikTok.

In a bid to keep US data safe, all federal agencies must&nbsp;eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters news agency.

On Tuesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will vote on a bill that would give President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all US devices.

The order comes almost a year after Congress voted to prohibit federal employees from using the Chinese-owned app on government devices and gave the Biden administration 60 days to enforce the ban.

The vote comes in the wake of security concerns raised by US lawmakers that Beijing uses Chinese companies to snoop on Americans.

<h2>Canada bans TikTok on government devices over security risks</h2>

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"My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any&nbsp;software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee's chair, said.

"Anyone&nbsp;with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese&nbsp;Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information.&nbsp;It’s a spy balloon into your phone."

Many government agencies had already banned TikTok from government devices before the vote. They include the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department.

The US is the latest entrant to ban TikTok from being installed on government devices. Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of the US states had already taken necessary action in this regard.

India went a step further and banned the video-sharing app for commercial proposes in the wake of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. The brawl between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, a Himalayan border region, left at least 20 Indian soldiers dead, while Beijing didn’t disclose the number of fatalities on its side.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US federal agencies have been given 30 days ultimatum by the White House to ensure no government devices and systems have the Chinese video sharing app TikTok.

The US federal agencies have been given 30 days ultimatum by the White House to ensure no government devices and systems have the Chinese video sharing app TikTok. In a bid to keep US data safe, all federal agencies must eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters news agency. On Tuesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will vote on a bill that would give President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all US devices. The order comes almost a year after Congress voted to prohibit federal employees from using the Chinese-owned app on government devices and gave the Biden administration 60 days to enforce the ban. The vote comes in the wake of security concerns raised by US lawmakers that Beijing uses Chinese companies to snoop on Americans. Canada bans TikTok on government devices over security risks "My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee's chair, said. "Anyone with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information. It’s a spy balloon into your phone." Many government agencies had already banned TikTok from government devices before the vote. They include the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department. The US is the latest entrant to ban TikTok from being installed on government devices. Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of the US states had already taken necessary action in this regard. India went a step further and banned the video-sharing app for commercial proposes in the wake of the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. The brawl between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, a Himalayan border region, left at least 20 Indian soldiers dead, while Beijing didn’t disclose the number of fatalities on its side. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

White House gives US federal agencies 30 days to enforce TikTok ban

The White House announced on Friday that Russia is considering supplying fighter jets to Iran as part of an expanded military partnership that has seen Tehran deliver increasing numbers of weapons to Moscow for use in the invasion of Ukraine.

Iran seeking billion dollar military support, claims U.S.

Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury. The investigators have been probing claims about Trump's efforts to stay in power after losing the 2020 presidential election. A pro-Trump mob carried out the Capitol Hill riots months after he lost. The 76-year-old business magnate-politician last year yet again announced the bid to run in the elections in 2024.

In November, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith to take over two investigations against the former president. While one of them pertains to his handling of highly sensitive classified documents he retained at his Florida resort after leaving the White House in January 2021, the other one is linked to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election's results. Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, former national security adviser Robert O'Brien and former chief of staff to Trump, Mark Meadows, are among others have been subpoenaed by Smith in his probes, as per reports.

Watch: Georgia grand jury recommended charging multiple people in Trump election probe

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Pence, who was presiding over a joint session at the US Capitol when Trump supporters stormed into the building, has suggested that he might challenge the summons in the Supreme Court.

&nbsp;

<h2>Where were Ivanka and Kushner on the fateful day of US capitol riots</h2>

 
Ivanka Trump, 41, who was a senior advisor in the Trump administration, was in the Oval Office on January 6, according to the New York Times report, which adds that her father dialed up Pence in a bid to block or delay certification of the Electoral College results documenting Joe Biden win.

&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/top-fox-news-executives-mocked-trumps-election-rigging-claims-court-filing-shows-563011">Top Fox News executives mocked Trump’s election rigging claims, court filing shows</a>

Kushner had returned from a foreign visit that day and he later went to the White House as riots unfolded.

(With agency inputs)

&nbsp;

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Former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have been summoned in the January 6, 2021 Capitol Hill riots investigation. The couple, according to a report by the New York Times, have been subpoenaed by Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before a federal grand jury.

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

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

In another incident of public shooting, a TV reporter and a nine-year-old girl were fatally shot near Orlando on Wednesday afternoon. The incident transpired around the scene of a homicide that took place, mere hours earlier.&nbsp;

Orange County Sheriff John Mina informed that a suspect named 19-year-old Keith Melvin Moses, thought to be responsible for both attacks has been detained in custody.&nbsp;

“I want to acknowledge what a horrible day this has been for our community and our media partners. I work closely with all of you and know many of you and know the very difficult job that you do and also the very important job that you do for our community and for law enforcement," Mina was quoted as saying by The Associated Press.&nbsp;

"No one in our community - not a mother, not a nine-year-old and certainly not news professionals - should become the victim of gun violence in our community."

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This is 19-year-old Keith Melvin Moses, the suspect in a series of shootings today that left three dead, in OCSO custody. This is a sad day for our community. Three were murdered today, including a woman in her 20s, a 9-year-old girl and a <a href="https://twitter.com/MyNews13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MyNews13</a> employee. <a href="https://t.co/DXXkxzRHl5">pic.twitter.com/DXXkxzRHl5</a>
— Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/OrangeCoSheriff/status/1628577832426258439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The suspect has not revealed much at the moment and it is unclear if he knew the victims personally. He already has a criminal history with charges ranging from aggravated battery, assault with a deadly weapon to burglary to grand theft offenses.&nbsp;

The alleged gunman first shot a woman, yet to be identified inside a car before taking a cover. He returned to the crime scene and opened fire again. After attacking the journalist, he went into a nearby home and shot the little girl and her mother. The latter is currently admitted in hospital in a critical condition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/explained-why-gun-shooting-happens-in-usa-so-often-find-out-the-truth-562621">Read more:&nbsp;Explained: Why gun shooting happens in USA so often? Find out the truth</a>

White House released a statement in the aftermath of the incident and showed condolences for the families of the victims.&nbsp;

"Our hearts go out to the family of the journalist killed today and the crew member injured in Orange County, Florida, as well as the whole Spectrum News team," tweeted Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

"Our hearts are also with the other shooting victims today, their families, and the entire community. Too many lives are being ripped apart by gun violence," she added.&nbsp;

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Our hearts go out to the family of the journalist killed today and the crew member injured in Orange County, Florida, as well as the whole Spectrum News team.
— Karine Jean-Pierre (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1628564593868959746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Gun violence has become a major problem across US.&nbsp;Mass shootings have become a routine phenomenon, with several high-profile incidents resulting in significant loss of life.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In another incident of public shooting, a TV reporter and a nine-year-old girl were fatally shot near Orlando on Wednesday afternoon. The incident transpired around the scene of a homicide that took place, mere hours earlier.

In another incident of public shooting, a TV reporter and a nine-year-old girl were fatally shot near Orlando on Wednesday afternoon. The incident transpired around the scene of a homicide that took place, mere hours earlier. Orange County Sheriff John Mina informed that a suspect named 19-year-old Keith Melvin Moses, thought to be responsible for both attacks has been detained in custody. “I want to acknowledge what a horrible day this has been for our community and our media partners. I work closely with all of you and know many of you and know the very difficult job that you do and also the very important job that you do for our community and for law enforcement," Mina was quoted as saying by The Associated Press. "No one in our community - not a mother, not a nine-year-old and certainly not news professionals - should become the victim of gun violence in our community." This is 19-year-old Keith Melvin Moses, the suspect in a series of shootings today that left three dead, in OCSO custody. This is a sad day for our community. Three were murdered today, including a woman in her 20s, a 9-year-old girl and a @MyNews13 employee. pic.twitter.com/DXXkxzRHl5 — Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) February 23, 2023 × The suspect has not revealed much at the moment and it is unclear if he knew the victims personally. He already has a criminal history with charges ranging from aggravated battery, assault with a deadly weapon to burglary to grand theft offenses. The alleged gunman first shot a woman, yet to be identified inside a car before taking a cover. He returned to the crime scene and opened fire again. After attacking the journalist, he went into a nearby home and shot the little girl and her mother. The latter is currently admitted in hospital in a critical condition. Read more: Explained: Why gun shooting happens in USA so often? Find out the truth White House released a statement in the aftermath of the incident and showed condolences for the families of the victims. "Our hearts go out to the family of the journalist killed today and the crew member injured in Orange County, Florida, as well as the whole Spectrum News team," tweeted Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. "Our hearts are also with the other shooting victims today, their families, and the entire community. Too many lives are being ripped apart by gun violence," she added. Our hearts go out to the family of the journalist killed today and the crew member injured in Orange County, Florida, as well as the whole Spectrum News team. — Karine Jean-Pierre (@PressSec) February 23, 2023 × Gun violence has become a major problem across US. Mass shootings have become a routine phenomenon, with several high-profile incidents resulting in significant loss of life. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Orlando: TV journalist and a nine-year-old fatally shot near an active murder scene

A former White House physician slammed&nbsp;the latest health report of the United States President Joe Biden and asked to end the "cover-up". US Representative Ronny Jackson, who served the Trump and Obama administrations, called the recent health report of Biden "alarming" and alleged that it doesn't mention the "declining" mental health of the US president.&nbsp;

The 80-year-old was declared "fit for duty" by his doctor earlier this week. It was the final annual medical check-up before he is expected to declare he's running for re-election in 2024.&nbsp;

Biden's physician, Kevin O'Connor, said in a letter published by the White House, "President Biden remains a healthy, vigorous, 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency, to include those of as Chief Executive, Head of State and Commander in Chief."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>&nbsp;

But Jackson told US-based Fox News that the report was nothing but a "cover-up". As per the report, Biden remains "fit for duty" and can fully execute all of his responsibilities without any "exemptions or accommodations".&nbsp;

As quoted Jackson said, "The majority of Americans can see that Biden's mental health is in total decline, yet there is no transparency from the White House on what’s going on, if anything, to address this issue and his inability to do his job."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;China and its growing alliances: Is China uniting all of US' foes?&nbsp;

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He said that the written physical exam report released by Biden's physician apparently confirms that this administration is still adamant about "concealing the truth". He said that the report doesn't mention Biden's "deteriorating mental health".&nbsp;

He said, "This is alarming, considering I have already sent three letters to the White House demanding that Biden receive a cognitive test and that the results be made public, all of which have been ignored. Everyone can see something is wrong — the cover-up needs to end."&nbsp;

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A former White House physician slammed the latest health report of the United States President Joe Biden and asked to end the "cover-up". US Representative Ronny Jackson, who served the Trump and Obama administrations, called the recent health report of Biden "alarming" and alleged that it doesn't mention the "declining" mental health of the US president.

A former White House physician slammed the latest health report of the United States President Joe Biden and asked to end the "cover-up". US Representative Ronny Jackson, who served the Trump and Obama administrations, called the recent health report of Biden "alarming" and alleged that it doesn't mention the "declining" mental health of the US president. The 80-year-old was declared "fit for duty" by his doctor earlier this week. It was the final annual medical check-up before he is expected to declare he's running for re-election in 2024. Biden's physician, Kevin O'Connor, said in a letter published by the White House, "President Biden remains a healthy, vigorous, 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency, to include those of as Chief Executive, Head of State and Commander in Chief." ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate But Jackson told US-based Fox News that the report was nothing but a "cover-up". As per the report, Biden remains "fit for duty" and can fully execute all of his responsibilities without any "exemptions or accommodations". As quoted Jackson said, "The majority of Americans can see that Biden's mental health is in total decline, yet there is no transparency from the White House on what’s going on, if anything, to address this issue and his inability to do his job." WATCH | China and its growing alliances: Is China uniting all of US' foes? × He said that the written physical exam report released by Biden's physician apparently confirms that this administration is still adamant about "concealing the truth". He said that the report doesn't mention Biden's "deteriorating mental health". He said, "This is alarming, considering I have already sent three letters to the White House demanding that Biden receive a cognitive test and that the results be made public, all of which have been ignored. Everyone can see something is wrong — the cover-up needs to end." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'This cover-up needs to end': Former White House doctor slams Joe Biden's health report

Republican Nikki Haley has formally announced her 2024 Presidential campaign betting that her boundary breaking career as a woman and a person of colour can overcome an immense support for one time former US boss, Donald Trump.

Nikki Haley to challenge former boss Donald Trump, calls for new Republican leadership

US: Nikki Haley takes dig at Donald Trump, says 'move past faded names | World News | WION

The race for 2024 Presidential elections has begun and in the latest former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has announced a candidature for the 2024 Republican Presidential nomination. The news was expected as for a week now, she's hinting the announcement.

'Go for it Nikki': Supporters pour in wishes for Nikki Haley as she announces Presidential run

Casting aside initial aspersions over the Chinese balloons that were shot down by US jets over suspicion of spying on American military sites, the White House on Tuesday said its intelligence officials believe that the balloons were being flown for “benign or commercial” use.

Briefing reporters, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that the assessment of the intelligence officials is preliminary and added that the US is yet to determine the origin of the three objects.

Kirby said that more would be known once the debris is collected, but added that the parts are in hard-to-reach areas —two in the frozen north and one in Lake Huron. He further said that retrieving the debris was proving difficult.

“The intelligence community is considering as a leading explanation that these could just be balloons tied to some commercial or benign purpose,” Kirby said.

He said that efforts to retrieve the debris have been hampered due to “pretty tough conditions,” exacerbated by the geographic challenges on Lake Huron, in the Yukon wilderness and on sea ice north of Alaska.

“Pretty tough weather conditions, let alone just geographically, just tough time of year,” Kirby said.

He further said that there was no indication they were connected to China’s spy balloon program, on the bias of which the US jets were scrambled to take action earlier this month.

<h2>Chinese spy balloon row: Deputy Secretary of the state hits out at China</h2>

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<h2>US senators briefed on spy balloon</h2>

Meanwhile, US senators, who were given a classified briefing on balloons on Capitol Hill, said they were reassured that the flying objects posed no threat to the American people.

“There are a lot of these things that are up in the air from time to time, some commercial, some government and maybe there are some things we don’t know,” said Republican’s Utah Senator Mitt Romney, reports CNN.

He added that he wasn’t worried “in the slightest” that the objects themselves threaten the American people.

The reaction from the US seeks to put rest to the ongoing claims about the origins of the balloons.

Administration officials have increasingly cast doubt on their ability to fully recover debris from the objects, given tough conditions where they landed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Casting aside initial aspersions over the Chinese balloons that were shot down by US jets over suspicion of spying on American military sites, the White House on Tuesday said its intelligence officials believe that the balloons were being flown for “benign or commercial” use.

Casting aside initial aspersions over the Chinese balloons that were shot down by US jets over suspicion of spying on American military sites, the White House on Tuesday said its intelligence officials believe that the balloons were being flown for “benign or commercial” use. Briefing reporters, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that the assessment of the intelligence officials is preliminary and added that the US is yet to determine the origin of the three objects. Kirby said that more would be known once the debris is collected, but added that the parts are in hard-to-reach areas —two in the frozen north and one in Lake Huron. He further said that retrieving the debris was proving difficult. “The intelligence community is considering as a leading explanation that these could just be balloons tied to some commercial or benign purpose,” Kirby said. He said that efforts to retrieve the debris have been hampered due to “pretty tough conditions,” exacerbated by the geographic challenges on Lake Huron, in the Yukon wilderness and on sea ice north of Alaska. “Pretty tough weather conditions, let alone just geographically, just tough time of year,” Kirby said. He further said that there was no indication they were connected to China’s spy balloon program, on the bias of which the US jets were scrambled to take action earlier this month. Chinese spy balloon row: Deputy Secretary of the state hits out at China US senators briefed on spy balloon Meanwhile, US senators, who were given a classified briefing on balloons on Capitol Hill, said they were reassured that the flying objects posed no threat to the American people. “There are a lot of these things that are up in the air from time to time, some commercial, some government and maybe there are some things we don’t know,” said Republican’s Utah Senator Mitt Romney, reports CNN. He added that he wasn’t worried “in the slightest” that the objects themselves threaten the American people. The reaction from the US seeks to put rest to the ongoing claims about the origins of the balloons. Administration officials have increasingly cast doubt on their ability to fully recover debris from the objects, given tough conditions where they landed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

No conclusive evidence to prove Chinese balloons were used for spying, says White House

The White House has said that there was no indication that the three flying objects that were shot down over US and Canada by the US military are linked to alleged Chinese flying. It was further said that the aerial objects may turn out to be balloons connected to Benign commercial or research efforts.

Spy Balloon Row: White House says, 'US not sure about the objects it shot down'

The White House said on Monday, 13 February, that there is "no indication of aliens or extraterrestrial activity" in the recently downed unidentified objects over North American skies. "I know there have been questions and concerns about this but there is no, again no indication of aliens or extraterrestrial activity with these recent takedowns," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. "I wanted to make sure that the American people knew that," she added during her daily press briefing.

This comes after a US Air Force general on Sunday said he would not rule out aliens or any other explanation yet.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-wang-yi-to-meet-face-to-face-in-germany-this-week-the-first-after-chinese-spy-balloon-row-561655">Blinken, Wang Yi to meet face-to-face in Germany this week? The first after Chinese 'spy' balloon row</a>

White House National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby also said that US "don't know for sure whether they [the unidentified objects] had a surveillance aspect to them, but we can't rule it out."

He added China has a "high-altitude balloon programme for intelligence collection that's connected to the People's Liberation Army." and that the programme was operating during the previous administration as well but they did not detect it. "We detected it. We tracked it," he said at the briefing.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/moldovas-president-maia-sandu-reveals-russias-plans-to-topple-the-government-561581">Moldovan President Maia Sandu reveals Russia’s plans to topple its government</a>

"We know that these PRC surveillance balloons have crossed over dozens of countries including some of our allies and partners. We assessed that at this time these balloons have provided limited value to PRC's other intelligence platforms but could become more valuable in future," Kirby added.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;military also said that it had recovered critical electronics from the suspected Chinese spy balloon downed off South Carolina's coast on February&nbsp;4, including key sensors presumably used for intelligence gathering.

"Crews have been able to recover significant debris from the site, including all of the priority sensor and electronics pieces identified as well as large sections of the structure," the US&nbsp;military's Northern Command said in a statement.

Kirby, meanwhile, refuted China's allegations that the US is flying surveillance balloons over China. "I am not aware of any other craft that we are flying over into Chinese airspace," US NSC Coordinator said.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/this-heart-shaped-island-is-up-for-sale-ahead-of-valentines-day-561628">This heart-shaped island is up for sale ahead of Valentine's Day</a>

Three more flying objects have been shot down by the American military in recent days over North America, most recently on Sunday when an object was shot down over Lake Huron, according to the Pentagon.

Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Monday, “We’re going to confirm what they are once we’ve collected the debris" adding "we’ve not recovered any debris from the three most recent shootdowns.”&nbsp;

“I want to be clear the three objects taken down this weekend are very different from what we were talking about last week,” he said.&nbsp;

According to some officials quoted by multiple media outlets, it is believed that the objects that were shot down over Canada and Alaska had payloads. Moreover, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that the four aerial objects, including one over Yukon territory on Saturday, are connected in some way.&nbsp;

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The White House said on Monday, 13 February, that there is "no indication of aliens or extraterrestrial activity" in the recently downed unidentified objects over North American skies.

The White House said on Monday, 13 February, that there is "no indication of aliens or extraterrestrial activity" in the recently downed unidentified objects over North American skies. "I know there have been questions and concerns about this but there is no, again no indication of aliens or extraterrestrial activity with these recent takedowns," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. "I wanted to make sure that the American people knew that," she added during her daily press briefing. This comes after a US Air Force general on Sunday said he would not rule out aliens or any other explanation yet. Also Read | Blinken, Wang Yi to meet face-to-face in Germany this week? The first after Chinese 'spy' balloon row White House National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby also said that US "don't know for sure whether they [the unidentified objects] had a surveillance aspect to them, but we can't rule it out." He added China has a "high-altitude balloon programme for intelligence collection that's connected to the People's Liberation Army." and that the programme was operating during the previous administration as well but they did not detect it. "We detected it. We tracked it," he said at the briefing. Also Read | Moldovan President Maia Sandu reveals Russia’s plans to topple its government "We know that these PRC surveillance balloons have crossed over dozens of countries including some of our allies and partners. We assessed that at this time these balloons have provided limited value to PRC's other intelligence platforms but could become more valuable in future," Kirby added. The US military also said that it had recovered critical electronics from the suspected Chinese spy balloon downed off South Carolina's coast on February 4, including key sensors presumably used for intelligence gathering. "Crews have been able to recover significant debris from the site, including all of the priority sensor and electronics pieces identified as well as large sections of the structure," the US military's Northern Command said in a statement. Kirby, meanwhile, refuted China's allegations that the US is flying surveillance balloons over China. "I am not aware of any other craft that we are flying over into Chinese airspace," US NSC Coordinator said. Watch | This heart-shaped island is up for sale ahead of Valentine's Day Three more flying objects have been shot down by the American military in recent days over North America, most recently on Sunday when an object was shot down over Lake Huron, according to the Pentagon. Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Monday, “We’re going to confirm what they are once we’ve collected the debris" adding "we’ve not recovered any debris from the three most recent shootdowns.” “I want to be clear the three objects taken down this weekend are very different from what we were talking about last week,” he said. According to some officials quoted by multiple media outlets, it is believed that the objects that were shot down over Canada and Alaska had payloads. Moreover, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that the four aerial objects, including one over Yukon territory on Saturday, are connected in some way. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House says no 'alien' activity, not sure if three downed aerial objects linked to surveillance

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