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Residents of the Indian capital continue to reel under the pollution crisis as Central and state authorities scramble to implement course correction measures. Watch in for more details!

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U.S. authorities have charged Indian billionaire Gautam Adani with allegedly conspiring to bribe Indian government officials with over $250 million to award solar energy contracts.

Indian Billionaire Gautam Adani Charged By US Over Alleged $250 Million Bribe Plot

Israeli strikes killed 15 people including five children in Palestine's Gaza Strip. A school turn shelter was hit in Nuseirat refugee camp killing six people including two women and one child. Meanwhile, the United States vetoed a UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the war in Gaza saying that the resolution was not linked to an immediate release of hostages taken captive by Hamas in Israel in October 2023. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Palestinian Envoy Denounces US Decision To Veto Gaza Resolution

South Africa's new high commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal has said his mandate in India will be to "build on that very strong foundation" & to " expand exponentially this relationship on all fronts of cooperation". Sooklal, who is South Africa's first Indian origin High commissioner to Delhi, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal said, " I'm very blessed because I'm African, in the sense that my Janmabhoomi is Africa, and now my Karmabhumi is India. So I am a blend of both African and Indian in one package. I'm proud of both identities". The new High commissioner presented his credentials to Indian President Murmu earlier this week. In the past he was South Africa's Sherpa to the BRICS grouping & G20. Watch in for more details!

'Africa My Janmabhoomi, India Now My Karmabhumi', Says New South African Envoy Anil Sooklal

The Group of 20 (G20) annual summits represent a high point in the international calendar, drawing extensive attention globally. The first cycle of summits, which began in 2008, is now ending. The 19th summit in Rio de Janeiro (18–19 November) was a consequential development. It was preceded by the summits hosted by Indonesia and India and will be succeeded by the 20th summit in South Africa next year.&nbsp;

<h2>Significance&nbsp;</h2>

The G20 represents around 85 per cent of the world’s GDP, over 75 per cent of world trade, and around two-thirds of the world's population. Its members include nineteen countries and two regional bodies, the European Union and the African Union.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiGifHGiu2JAxXrR2wGHeBqEtAQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-ends-in-rio-with-no-progress-on-climate-777199" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">G20 summit ends in Rio with no progress on climate</a>

A long series of meetings of working groups, ministers, engagement groups, and other stakeholders prepared the road to the Rio Summit. At the summit, most members were represented by their top leaders. A major exception was Russia; President Putin did not show up. Despite his absence, a world leader whose shadows loomed large on Rio was Donald Trump, the next US President, due to his views on many global issues. How his administration may impact the G20 is an intriguing and debatable subject.&nbsp;

<h2>Rio Declaration&nbsp;</h2>

An honest assessment of Brazil’s year-long presidency and the summit requires a close look at the Rio Declaration, which comprises 85 tightly drafted paragraphs divided into five sections.&nbsp;

One, G20’s evaluation of the international economic and political situation portrays the present time as one of significant geopolitical, socio-economic, climate and environmental challenges and crises "which require urgent action."&nbsp;The world is nowhere near achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with progress towards only 17 per cent of the SDG targets on track. In keeping with its past record, the group predicted good prospects for a soft landing of the global economy while drawing attention to multiple challenges, some downside risks, and elevated uncertainty.&nbsp;

It noted the impact of wars and conflicts without referring to nations' responsibility to commence them. In West Asia, the G20 was deeply concerned over the catastrophic humanitarian situation and expressed its unwavering commitment to the two-State solution.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiGifHGiu2JAxXrR2wGHeBqEtAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-welcomed-with-celebration-of-indian-culture-as-he-arrives-in-brazil-for-g20-summit-777049" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">PM Modi welcomed with 'celebration of Indian culture' as he arrives in Brazil for G20 summit</a>

On Ukraine, the group was content with referring to discussions in New Delhi and welcoming all constructive efforts for "a comprehensive, just, and durable peace."&nbsp;It stressed the criticality of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving conflicts. On terrorism, it issued a clear message: "We condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations."

Two, anchoring on the Brazilian presidency’s three key priorities, the declaration attributed the highest importance to social inclusion and the fight against hunger and poverty. Noting that the number of people facing hunger in 2023 had increased to 733 million, the leaders witnessed the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty. The innovative approach of the alliance was hailed for “mobilizing finance and knowledge sharing” to support the implementation of “country-led, country-owned, large-scale and evidence-based programmes” to reduce hunger and poverty worldwide. Terming inequalities as having a “negative inter-generational impact,” the leaders detected much potential of digital and emerging technologies to address this challenge. &nbsp;

Three, 25 paragraphs have been devoted to an exposition of various strands of sustainable development, energy transitions, and climate action. Reiterating the goals of the Paris Agreement, the leaders expressed their resolve to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. They promised timely and structural actions in the national economies and international financing system to accelerate climate action.&nbsp;

Climate finance is central to success in this respect. Hence, para 43 duly emphasized the need to increase public and private finance, recycling the New Delhi summit’s &nbsp;formulation of scaling up climate finance “from billions to trillions.” &nbsp;However, considering that the world took nearly a decade to achieve the target of $100 billion to deal with its climate goals, the talk of trillions of dollars remains unconvincing, especially with the likelihood of the US walking out of the Paris Agreement again. Rio clearly failed to provide guidance on this score to COP29, being held in Baku. G20 is now pinning its hopes on the Sustainable Finance Roadmap and the consensus achieved in the 2024 G20 Sustainable Finance Report.&nbsp;

Four, the proposed reform of global governance institutions covers several institutions such as the UN, WTO and Multilateral Development Banks (MDSs). The declaration has thoughts on various UN organs, but the Security Council is the most important. Here, the declaration sticks to the formulation approved at the recent UN Summit of the Future. The Security Council needs to enlarge and improve the representation of “underrepresented and unrepresented regions and groups” like Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The MDBs received particular attention. Building on the achievements of the Indian presidency, Brazil managed to produce the G20 Roadmap towards “Better, Bigger and More Effective” MDBs. G20 called for its early implementation and periodic progress reports. The paras on reform of the multilateral trade system and WTO lacked novelty.&nbsp;

Five, Rio envisaged an inclusive and effective G20, welcoming the entry of the African Union as a full member. Leaders commended holding the G20 foreign ministers' meeting at the UN, which was open to all UN members. They applauded Brazil for the G20 Social Summit, which gave non-government stakeholders a unique opportunity to articulate their perspectives. G20 Sherpas have been tasked with evaluating the first cycle of presidencies during South Africa’s presidential tenure and producing a roadmap for future presidencies.&nbsp;

<h2>Assessment&nbsp;</h2>

While a comprehensive assessment of the Rio Summit’s outcomes will need more time and reflection, the following three aspects are noteworthy.&nbsp;

First, Rio represented a continuation and amplification of the ideas and decisions of the recent summits. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked at the summit, “The people-centric decisions taken at the G20 summit in New Delhi have been taken forward during Brazil’s presidency.” The Indian presidency's imprint was visible on several scores. Yet, Brazil left a stamp of its own, especially with the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty and the convening of the Social Summit. The Troika mechanism ensured consistency while affording ample flexibility to the country holding the presidency.&nbsp;

Second, assessing Rio’s decision-making performance, John Kirton &nbsp;and Brittaney Warren of the G20 research group at the University of Toronto concluded that the leaders made “174 collective, precise, future-oriented, politically binding commitments.” The number was substantially lower than the 242 made in New Delhi in 2023, the 223 made in Bali in 2022, and the 255 made in Rome in 2021. “It was also below the average of 196 commitments made at each G20 summit from their start in 2008,” they noted.&nbsp;

Third, after a year-long deliberative process within the G20, decisions are made and announced, but the question is: Can they be implemented? G20 skeptics tend to dismiss the entire exercise as a meaningless ‘annual circus.’ However, G20 optimists and realists recognize the value of G20 as a unique platform that is seriously engaged in crafting solutions for global challenges today. The credibility of G20 will increase further as the constituent member states and international organizations focus on implementing the decisions taken.&nbsp;

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres observed before the summit, “I have come to Rio with a simple message: G20 leaders must lead.”&nbsp;

A global vision and tangible delivery will be the ultimate criteria for judging the G20 in the future. &nbsp;

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. 
&nbsp;

The Group of 20 (G20) annual summits represent a high point in the international calendar, drawing extensive attention globally. The first cycle of summits, which began in 2008, is now ending.

The Group of 20 (G20) annual summits represent a high point in the international calendar, drawing extensive attention globally. The first cycle of summits, which began in 2008, is now ending. The 19th summit in Rio de Janeiro (18–19 November) was a consequential development. It was preceded by the summits hosted by Indonesia and India and will be succeeded by the 20th summit in South Africa next year. Significance The G20 represents around 85 per cent of the world’s GDP, over 75 per cent of world trade, and around two-thirds of the world's population. Its members include nineteen countries and two regional bodies, the European Union and the African Union. Also read | G20 summit ends in Rio with no progress on climate A long series of meetings of working groups, ministers, engagement groups, and other stakeholders prepared the road to the Rio Summit. At the summit, most members were represented by their top leaders. A major exception was Russia; President Putin did not show up. Despite his absence, a world leader whose shadows loomed large on Rio was Donald Trump, the next US President, due to his views on many global issues. How his administration may impact the G20 is an intriguing and debatable subject. Rio Declaration An honest assessment of Brazil’s year-long presidency and the summit requires a close look at the Rio Declaration, which comprises 85 tightly drafted paragraphs divided into five sections. One, G20’s evaluation of the international economic and political situation portrays the present time as one of significant geopolitical, socio-economic, climate and environmental challenges and crises "which require urgent action." The world is nowhere near achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with progress towards only 17 per cent of the SDG targets on track. In keeping with its past record, the group predicted good prospects for a soft landing of the global economy while drawing attention to multiple challenges, some downside risks, and elevated uncertainty. It noted the impact of wars and conflicts without referring to nations' responsibility to commence them. In West Asia, the G20 was deeply concerned over the catastrophic humanitarian situation and expressed its unwavering commitment to the two-State solution. Also read | PM Modi welcomed with 'celebration of Indian culture' as he arrives in Brazil for G20 summit On Ukraine, the group was content with referring to discussions in New Delhi and welcoming all constructive efforts for "a comprehensive, just, and durable peace." It stressed the criticality of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving conflicts. On terrorism, it issued a clear message: "We condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Two, anchoring on the Brazilian presidency’s three key priorities, the declaration attributed the highest importance to social inclusion and the fight against hunger and poverty. Noting that the number of people facing hunger in 2023 had increased to 733 million, the leaders witnessed the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty. The innovative approach of the alliance was hailed for “mobilizing finance and knowledge sharing” to support the implementation of “country-led, country-owned, large-scale and evidence-based programmes” to reduce hunger and poverty worldwide. Terming inequalities as having a “negative inter-generational impact,” the leaders detected much potential of digital and emerging technologies to address this challenge. Three, 25 paragraphs have been devoted to an exposition of various strands of sustainable development, energy transitions, and climate action. Reiterating the goals of the Paris Agreement, the leaders expressed their resolve to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. They promised timely and structural actions in the national economies and international financing system to accelerate climate action. Climate finance is central to success in this respect. Hence, para 43 duly emphasized the need to increase public and private finance, recycling the New Delhi summit’s formulation of scaling up climate finance “from billions to trillions.” However, considering that the world took nearly a decade to achieve the target of $100 billion to deal with its climate goals, the talk of trillions of dollars remains unconvincing, especially with the likelihood of the US walking out of the Paris Agreement again. Rio clearly failed to provide guidance on this score to COP29, being held in Baku. G20 is now pinning its hopes on the Sustainable Finance Roadmap and the consensus achieved in the 2024 G20 Sustainable Finance Report. Four, the proposed reform of global governance institutions covers several institutions such as the UN, WTO and Multilateral Development Banks (MDSs). The declaration has thoughts on various UN organs, but the Security Council is the most important. Here, the declaration sticks to the formulation approved at the recent UN Summit of the Future. The Security Council needs to enlarge and improve the representation of “underrepresented and unrepresented regions and groups” like Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The MDBs received particular attention. Building on the achievements of the Indian presidency, Brazil managed to produce the G20 Roadmap towards “Better, Bigger and More Effective” MDBs. G20 called for its early implementation and periodic progress reports. The paras on reform of the multilateral trade system and WTO lacked novelty. Five, Rio envisaged an inclusive and effective G20, welcoming the entry of the African Union as a full member. Leaders commended holding the G20 foreign ministers' meeting at the UN, which was open to all UN members. They applauded Brazil for the G20 Social Summit, which gave non-government stakeholders a unique opportunity to articulate their perspectives. G20 Sherpas have been tasked with evaluating the first cycle of presidencies during South Africa’s presidential tenure and producing a roadmap for future presidencies. Assessment While a comprehensive assessment of the Rio Summit’s outcomes will need more time and reflection, the following three aspects are noteworthy. First, Rio represented a continuation and amplification of the ideas and decisions of the recent summits. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked at the summit, “The people-centric decisions taken at the G20 summit in New Delhi have been taken forward during Brazil’s presidency.” The Indian presidency's imprint was visible on several scores. Yet, Brazil left a stamp of its own, especially with the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty and the convening of the Social Summit. The Troika mechanism ensured consistency while affording ample flexibility to the country holding the presidency. Second, assessing Rio’s decision-making performance, John Kirton and Brittaney Warren of the G20 research group at the University of Toronto concluded that the leaders made “174 collective, precise, future-oriented, politically binding commitments.” The number was substantially lower than the 242 made in New Delhi in 2023, the 223 made in Bali in 2022, and the 255 made in Rome in 2021. “It was also below the average of 196 commitments made at each G20 summit from their start in 2008,” they noted. Third, after a year-long deliberative process within the G20, decisions are made and announced, but the question is: Can they be implemented? G20 skeptics tend to dismiss the entire exercise as a meaningless ‘annual circus.’ However, G20 optimists and realists recognize the value of G20 as a unique platform that is seriously engaged in crafting solutions for global challenges today. The credibility of G20 will increase further as the constituent member states and international organizations focus on implementing the decisions taken. As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres observed before the summit, “I have come to Rio with a simple message: G20 leaders must lead.” A global vision and tangible delivery will be the ultimate criteria for judging the G20 in the future. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

G20 summit at Rio de Janeiro: Outcome and impact 

The US government on Wednesday (Nov 20) called for a breakup of Google and Chrome, asking a judge to order the dismantling by ordering the tech giant to sell its popular browser.

In an escalation of the major antitrust crackdown on the internet giant, a court filing by the US Department of Justice urged for a shake-up of Google. The proposals reportedly include banning Google deal to be&nbsp;the default search engine on smartphones and possibly requiring Google to sell Android.

<h2>Why sell Android?</h2>

Antitrust officials said that the tech giant should be made to sell Android if the proposed remedies don't prevent it from exploiting its control of the Android mobile operating system.

It&nbsp;suggested remedies to dismantle what it views as Google's monopolistic stranglehold on the internet&nbsp;

- Ending default search deals: Google would no longer be allowed to pay companies like Apple to make its search engine the default on devices.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-google-agree-to-sell-its-chrome-browser-as-us-govt-raises-monopoly-concerns-777485">Will Google agree to sell its Chrome browser as US govt raises monopoly&nbsp;concerns?</a>

- Selling Chrome: By controlling the browser market, the DOJ argues, Google strengthens its grip on search and user data.&nbsp;

- Potential Android sale.

These DOJ recommendations come after an August judgement by Judge Amit Mehta who ruled that Google by maintaining a monopoly on the search engine market, had violated laws.

<h2>Google fires back</h2>

Slamming the US government proposal, Google president of global affairs Kent Walker said Justice officials "chose to push a radical interventionist agenda".

These remedies "would break a range of Google products" and undermine the company's investment in technologies like artificial intelligence, Walker said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/will-google-be-forced-to-sell-chrome-the-worlds-most-used-web-browser-decision-likely-soon-777620">Will Google be forced to sell Chrome, the world's most-used web browser? Decision likely soon</a>

"DOJ's approach would result in unprecedented government overreach that would harm American consumers, developers, and small businesses -- and jeopardize America's global economic and technological leadership," he added.

Meanwhile, Adam Kovacevich, head of the industry group Chamber of Progress, dismissed the government’s demands as "fantastical" and in defiance of legal standards.

Even if the Judge orders Google's breakup, the road ahead is long. Google is expected to appeal, potentially dragging the case to the US Supreme Court.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US government on Wednesday (Nov 20) called for a breakup of Google and Chrome, asking a judge to order the dismantling by ordering the tech giant to sell its popular browser.

The US government on Wednesday (Nov 20) called for a breakup of Google and Chrome, asking a judge to order the dismantling by ordering the tech giant to sell its popular browser. In an escalation of the major antitrust crackdown on the internet giant, a court filing by the US Department of Justice urged for a shake-up of Google. The proposals reportedly include banning Google deal to be the default search engine on smartphones and possibly requiring Google to sell Android. Why sell Android? Antitrust officials said that the tech giant should be made to sell Android if the proposed remedies don't prevent it from exploiting its control of the Android mobile operating system. It suggested remedies to dismantle what it views as Google's monopolistic stranglehold on the internet - Ending default search deals: Google would no longer be allowed to pay companies like Apple to make its search engine the default on devices. Also read | Will Google agree to sell its Chrome browser as US govt raises monopoly concerns? - Selling Chrome: By controlling the browser market, the DOJ argues, Google strengthens its grip on search and user data. - Potential Android sale. These DOJ recommendations come after an August judgement by Judge Amit Mehta who ruled that Google by maintaining a monopoly on the search engine market, had violated laws. Google fires back Slamming the US government proposal, Google president of global affairs Kent Walker said Justice officials "chose to push a radical interventionist agenda". These remedies "would break a range of Google products" and undermine the company's investment in technologies like artificial intelligence, Walker said. Also read | Will Google be forced to sell Chrome, the world's most-used web browser? Decision likely soon "DOJ's approach would result in unprecedented government overreach that would harm American consumers, developers, and small businesses -- and jeopardize America's global economic and technological leadership," he added. Meanwhile, Adam Kovacevich, head of the industry group Chamber of Progress, dismissed the government’s demands as "fantastical" and in defiance of legal standards. Even if the Judge orders Google's breakup, the road ahead is long. Google is expected to appeal, potentially dragging the case to the US Supreme Court. (With inputs from agencies)

US government pushes for Google to sell Chrome in antitrust case

As India marks 16 years since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the spotlight is on Sea Vigil 2024, the nation’s largest coastal security exercise. This drill unites the tri-services, six ministries, and 21 government agencies in a coordinated effort to bolster maritime defenses. Join WION Principal Correspondent Sidharth M.P. in conversation with Rear Admiral R.K. Dhingra of the Indian Navy as they discuss the exercise's objectives and its critical role in enhancing India's coastal security framework.

India: Rear Admiral RK Dhingra On Exercise Sea Vigil-24's Role In Enhancing India's Coastal Security

Sea Vigil 2024: Strengthening India’s Coastal Security Ahead of 26/11 Anniversary

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk - who have been picked by President-elect Donald Trump to run the newly formed task force to review government spending - have proposed to eliminate work-from-home facilities for federal workers.&nbsp;

The two entrepreneurs will be leading the newly formed&nbsp;“Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE).&nbsp;

In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, Musk and Ramaswamy said that the elimination of the option of remote working will trigger mass resignations which will help them trim the size of the government and make it more smaller and efficient.

“Requiring federal employees to come to the office five days a week would result in a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome,” wrote Musk and Ramaswamy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tech-titans-and-trump-elon-musk-joins-as-sundar-pichai-dials-us-president-elect-777918">Tech titans and Trump: Elon Musk joins as Sundar Pichai dials US President-elect</a>

“If federal employees don’t want to show up, American taxpayers shouldn’t pay them for the Covid-era privilege of staying home,” they further stated.&nbsp;

<h2>How the decision of work-from-office will likely impact the US govt?</h2>

Nearly 1.1 million federal employees, which is half of the civilian workforce of the government - have the facility of telework, as per the Office of Management and Budget.&nbsp;

Nearly 228,000 employees or 10 per cent of civilian personnel were working remotely with “no expectation that they [work] in-person on any regular or recurring basis” stated the agency in a report in August 2024.&nbsp;

The report came two years after President Biden, speaking in his 2022 State of the Union address,&nbsp;said, “The vast majority of federal workers will once again work in person.”

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump-Elon Musk Bonhomie

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-elon-musk-bonhomie-777756/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ramaswamy and Musk have said Trump has the authority to “curtail administrative overgrowth” through various means, which include “large-scale firings”, relocating “federal agencies out of the Washington area” and ending remote work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The two said that the DOGE plans “to work with embedded appointees in agencies to identify the minimum number of employees required” for the agency to “perform its constitutionally permissible and statutorily mandated functions.”

They further said that the fired federal workers will be “treated with respect” and that “DOGE’s goal is to help support their transition into the private sector.”

“The president can use existing laws to give them incentives for early retirement and to make voluntary severance payments to facilitate a graceful exit,” they added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk - who have been picked by President-elect Donald Trump to run the newly formed task force to review government spending - have proposed to eliminate work-from-home facilities for federal workers.

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk - who have been picked by President-elect Donald Trump to run the newly formed task force to review government spending - have proposed to eliminate work-from-home facilities for federal workers. The two entrepreneurs will be leading the newly formed “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE). In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, Musk and Ramaswamy said that the elimination of the option of remote working will trigger mass resignations which will help them trim the size of the government and make it more smaller and efficient. “Requiring federal employees to come to the office five days a week would result in a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome,” wrote Musk and Ramaswamy. Also Read: Tech titans and Trump: Elon Musk joins as Sundar Pichai dials US President-elect “If federal employees don’t want to show up, American taxpayers shouldn’t pay them for the Covid-era privilege of staying home,” they further stated. How the decision of work-from-office will likely impact the US govt? Nearly 1.1 million federal employees, which is half of the civilian workforce of the government - have the facility of telework, as per the Office of Management and Budget. Nearly 228,000 employees or 10 per cent of civilian personnel were working remotely with “no expectation that they [work] in-person on any regular or recurring basis” stated the agency in a report in August 2024. The report came two years after President Biden, speaking in his 2022 State of the Union address, said, “The vast majority of federal workers will once again work in person.” Watch: Donald Trump-Elon Musk Bonhomie Ramaswamy and Musk have said Trump has the authority to “curtail administrative overgrowth” through various means, which include “large-scale firings”, relocating “federal agencies out of the Washington area” and ending remote work. The two said that the DOGE plans “to work with embedded appointees in agencies to identify the minimum number of employees required” for the agency to “perform its constitutionally permissible and statutorily mandated functions.” They further said that the fired federal workers will be “treated with respect” and that “DOGE’s goal is to help support their transition into the private sector.” “The president can use existing laws to give them incentives for early retirement and to make voluntary severance payments to facilitate a graceful exit,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees

Elon Musk, the world's richest man, backed Donald Trump for US presidency online and on the ground. In return, he is being offered to run an agency of his own design to cut government spending. But it appears all is not well between the X owner and the incoming American president.

Eyebrows are being raised about the changed body language of the duo when Trump attended a launch event of SpaceX, owned by Musk, on Tuesday (Nov 19) in Texas.

Watch: Trump, Musk Solidify Bond With Texas Trip 
&nbsp;

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Multiple media reports are speculating that the cause could be Musk's assertive and mercurial personality, and his claiming of credit for Trump's shock victory against Democrat Kamala Harris in the November 5 election.

The apparent coldness - or even anxiety- of Trump at the Tuesday SpaceX event comes amid Musk's reported arguments with other members of the Trump transition team.

Earlier, US media reports said that there was an argument at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida between Musk and Boris Epshteyn, a member of the Trump legal team.

Musk reportedly complained that Epshteyn was pushing people who were not qualified for jobs in the incoming Trump administration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-trumps-inner-circle-cracking-musk-and-trumps-legal-adviser-had-a-blow-up-report-suggests-777218">Also read: Is Trump's inner circle cracking? Musk and Trump's legal adviser had a blow-up, report suggests</a>

It is also possible that Musk will differ on the issues of visas and migration with incoming deputy chief of policy, Stephen Miller, who is hawkish&nbsp;on immigration.

Miller was seen as the architect of the 'Muslim ban' in the first Trump administration.

NBC News reported citing sources that Musk was behaving like 'a co-president' and making&nbsp;Trump 'feel indebted' to him. That's not going to go down well with the Republican.

<h2>Body language expert breaks down lack of warmth between Trump and Musk</h2>

A report in the UK paper The Telegraph even employed a body language expert to examine the changed attitude of Trump towards Musk.

The expert, Darren Stanton, said Trump looked like a 'fish out of water' at the SpaceX event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-wont-go-home-cant-get-rid-of-him-trump-says-after-billionaires-constant-presence-at-his-home-776219">Also read: 'Elon won't go home, can't get rid of him,' Trump says after billionaire's constant presence at his home</a> 
 
Trump 'kept his arms hanging limply at his side: an act of anxiety and awkwardness,' the paper cited Stanton, who found Trump to be "very uneasy… usually he comes over as this alpha male, the most empowered, most powerful person in the room."

"I think he’s quite intimidated by Musk...He was out of his depth – his hands were just by his side like a mannequin.”

The report said Trump's 'power gestures' characteristic of his alpha male persona were missing.

As Musk gestured across to Starship of SpaceX, the largest rocket ever built, Trump "buttoned up his jacket before checking each of his pockets",&nbsp;according to Stanton who suggested he was 'a little intimidated'.

Stanton claimed that the only other person Trump is similarly submissive to is Russian President Vladimir Putin. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk, the world's richest man, backed Donald Trump for US presidency online and on the ground. In return, he is being offered to run an agency of his own design to cut government spending.

Elon Musk, the world's richest man, backed Donald Trump for US presidency online and on the ground. In return, he is being offered to run an agency of his own design to cut government spending. But it appears all is not well between the X owner and the incoming American president. Eyebrows are being raised about the changed body language of the duo when Trump attended a launch event of SpaceX, owned by Musk, on Tuesday (Nov 19) in Texas. Watch: Trump, Musk Solidify Bond With Texas Trip × Multiple media reports are speculating that the cause could be Musk's assertive and mercurial personality, and his claiming of credit for Trump's shock victory against Democrat Kamala Harris in the November 5 election. The apparent coldness - or even anxiety- of Trump at the Tuesday SpaceX event comes amid Musk's reported arguments with other members of the Trump transition team. Earlier, US media reports said that there was an argument at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida between Musk and Boris Epshteyn, a member of the Trump legal team. Musk reportedly complained that Epshteyn was pushing people who were not qualified for jobs in the incoming Trump administration. Also read: Is Trump's inner circle cracking? Musk and Trump's legal adviser had a blow-up, report suggests It is also possible that Musk will differ on the issues of visas and migration with incoming deputy chief of policy, Stephen Miller, who is hawkish on immigration. Miller was seen as the architect of the 'Muslim ban' in the first Trump administration. NBC News reported citing sources that Musk was behaving like 'a co-president' and making Trump 'feel indebted' to him. That's not going to go down well with the Republican. Body language expert breaks down lack of warmth between Trump and Musk A report in the UK paper The Telegraph even employed a body language expert to examine the changed attitude of Trump towards Musk. The expert, Darren Stanton, said Trump looked like a 'fish out of water' at the SpaceX event. Also read: 'Elon won't go home, can't get rid of him,' Trump says after billionaire's constant presence at his home Trump 'kept his arms hanging limply at his side: an act of anxiety and awkwardness,' the paper cited Stanton, who found Trump to be "very uneasy… usually he comes over as this alpha male, the most empowered, most powerful person in the room." "I think he’s quite intimidated by Musk...He was out of his depth – his hands were just by his side like a mannequin.” The report said Trump's 'power gestures' characteristic of his alpha male persona were missing. As Musk gestured across to Starship of SpaceX, the largest rocket ever built, Trump "buttoned up his jacket before checking each of his pockets", according to Stanton who suggested he was 'a little intimidated'. Stanton claimed that the only other person Trump is similarly submissive to is Russian President Vladimir Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk and Donald Trump - Is the honeymoon over already? Body language changes raise eyebrows

U.S. Attorney's office has charged Indian billionaire Gautam Adani with allegedly conspiring to bribe Indian government officials with over $250 million to award solar energy contracts. On Wednesday, prosecutors from Brooklyn, New York, said that Adani and the other defendants had solicited funds from American investors by spreading false information about the scheme.

The Adani Case In The US: Gautam Adani Charged By US Over Alleged $250 Million Bribe Plot

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will soon mark its third year. Russia has now threatened to strike Ukraine with a massive new missile in revenge for the use of Western weapons against its territory, a report by The Telegraph on Thursday (Nov 20) said.

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will soon mark its third year. Russia has now threatened to strike Ukraine with a massive new missile in revenge for the use of Western weapons against its territory, a report by The Telegraph on Thursday (Nov 20) said. Citing local media, the report said that the Russian military was preparing to fire the RS-26 Rubezh missiles at Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv. Earlier on Wednesday the US and a few other Western countries shut down their embassies in Kyiv for security reasons. The closure came a day after Ukraine used American missiles to hit a target inside Russia. The US later announced that it reopened its embassy late Wednesday. What is the RS-26 Rubezh missile? A report by RBC-Ukraine on Thursday said that the RS-26 Rubezh is a Russian mobile ground-based strategic missile system equipped with an intercontinental ballistic missile. The RS-26 has been built on the design of the Yars project (RS-24 Yars) with upgraded manoeuvrable warheads designed to penetrate missile defence systems. The missile can carry a thermonuclear warhead and can also be used with the hypersonic Avangard glide vehicle, the RBC-Ukraine report added. The first successful test of the RS-26 Rubezh took place in May 2012. The report pointed out that the missile was supposed to enter service in 2015 with a deployment planned two years later. But in 2018, it was announced that the missile system had been excluded from Russia's armament program through 2027. Citing public sources, the report revealed a few features of the missile- a launch weight of 40-50 tons, a range of up to 6,000 kilometres (Kms), and the warhead- four separate units with a total capacity of 1.2 megatons. Missile has not been used in combat before Citing Western missile experts, The Telegraph report on Thursday said that the RS-26 Rubezh has not been used in combat before. The missile is said to fly at five times the speed of sound- making it difficult for Ukraine's US-supplied Patriot missile systems to shoot down. A Moscow-based newspaper said that Russia was readying to launch the RS-26 missiles from a site in Astrakhan by the Caspian Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: What is RS-26 Rubezh, a missile Russia has threatened to strike Kyiv with?

South Africa's new high commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, has said his mandate in India will be to "build on that very strong foundation" and to "expand exponentially this relationship on all fronts of cooperation". The new High Commissioner presented his credentials to Indian President Droupadi Murmu earlier this week. In the past, he was South Africa's Sherpa to the BRICS grouping and G20. Sooklal, who is South Africa's first Indian-origin High commissioner to Delhi, spoke to WION's Sidhant Sibal on his future endeavors, South Africa's incoming G20 Presidency, BRICS, South Africa and India relations and Cheetah Diplomacy. Watch in for more details!

South African Envoy Anil Sooklal Tells WION About His Indian Origins | WION Exclusive Interview

Federal investigators in the United States have compiled a detailed chart outlining payments by Matt Gaetz and his associates, suggesting involvement in drug-fuelled sex parties.&nbsp;

<h2>A web of payments</h2>

The document, obtained by The New York Times and shared with the House Ethics Committee, traces Venmo transactions between Gaetz, his friends, and women who allegedly participated in these events — among them are the two who alleged he had hired them for sex. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/testimonies-in-sexual-misconduct-case-against-trumps-attorney-general-pick-matt-gaetz-exposed-online-777676">Testimonies in sexual misconduct case against Trump's attorney general pick Matt Gaetz exposed online</a>

The two women, represented by lawyer Joel Leppard, testified to the Ethics Committee that Gaetz paid them for sex. Payments reportedly totalled $10,000, with amounts ranging from $200 to $500 per encounter. Leppard in a telephone interview with NYT confirmed his clients received payments via Venmo and PayPal, adding that evidence from subpoenas revealed additional undisclosed amounts. &nbsp;

The chart also includes $450 worth of transactions to a 17-year-old girl alleged to have attended one of the parties. Joel Greenberg, Gaetz's former associate, earlier accepted that they both had sex with her, but claimed they believed she was of legal age. Greenberg, a key figure in the investigation, pleaded guilty to sex trafficking and other charges in 2021 and is serving an 11-year sentence. &nbsp;

<h2>Ethics committee inquiry against Gaetz &nbsp;</h2>

The investigation into Gaetz’s conduct began in 2020 and centred on allegations of sex trafficking and payments for sex. Although the Justice Department declined to charge Gaetz, the Ethics Committee obtained some evidence, including the payment chart. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-woman-who-stripped-in-anti-hijab-protest-released-without-charges-777666">Iranian woman who stripped in anti-hijab protest released without charges</a> 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Gaetz, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, recently resigned from Congress. He has consistently denied any misconduct. Trump’s communications director, Steven Cheung, accused the Justice Department of leaking the payment chart to discredit Gaetz. Cheung described the material as "classified," though it lacks such markings and does not involve national security. &nbsp;

"This purposeful leaking of classified investigative materials is the sort of politicised D.O.J. weaponisation that Matt Gaetz will end," said Cheung.

"The Justice Department investigated Gaetz for years, failed to find a crime and are now leaking material with false information to smear the next attorney general," he alleged.

(With inputs from agencies)

Federal investigators in the United States have compiled a detailed chart outlining payments by Matt Gaetz and his associates, suggesting involvement in drug-fuelled sex parties.

Federal investigators in the United States have compiled a detailed chart outlining payments by Matt Gaetz and his associates, suggesting involvement in drug-fuelled sex parties. A web of payments The document, obtained by The New York Times and shared with the House Ethics Committee, traces Venmo transactions between Gaetz, his friends, and women who allegedly participated in these events — among them are the two who alleged he had hired them for sex. Also read | Testimonies in sexual misconduct case against Trump's attorney general pick Matt Gaetz exposed online The two women, represented by lawyer Joel Leppard, testified to the Ethics Committee that Gaetz paid them for sex. Payments reportedly totalled $10,000, with amounts ranging from $200 to $500 per encounter. Leppard in a telephone interview with NYT confirmed his clients received payments via Venmo and PayPal, adding that evidence from subpoenas revealed additional undisclosed amounts. The chart also includes $450 worth of transactions to a 17-year-old girl alleged to have attended one of the parties. Joel Greenberg, Gaetz's former associate, earlier accepted that they both had sex with her, but claimed they believed she was of legal age. Greenberg, a key figure in the investigation, pleaded guilty to sex trafficking and other charges in 2021 and is serving an 11-year sentence. Ethics committee inquiry against Gaetz The investigation into Gaetz’s conduct began in 2020 and centred on allegations of sex trafficking and payments for sex. Although the Justice Department declined to charge Gaetz, the Ethics Committee obtained some evidence, including the payment chart. Also read | Iranian woman who stripped in anti-hijab protest released without charges Gaetz, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, recently resigned from Congress. He has consistently denied any misconduct. Trump’s communications director, Steven Cheung, accused the Justice Department of leaking the payment chart to discredit Gaetz. Cheung described the material as "classified," though it lacks such markings and does not involve national security. "This purposeful leaking of classified investigative materials is the sort of politicised D.O.J. weaponisation that Matt Gaetz will end," said Cheung. "The Justice Department investigated Gaetz for years, failed to find a crime and are now leaking material with false information to smear the next attorney general," he alleged. (With inputs from agencies)

Payment records reveal alleged ties between Trump's AG pick Matt Gaetz, and drug-fuelled sex parties

Israel-Hamas War: Palestinian Envoy Condemns U.S. Veto on Gaza Resolution

Celine Haidar, a 19-year-old Lebanese footballer, was severely injured in an Israeli strike, leaving her in a medically induced coma.

War's Innocent Victims: Celine Haidar Hights For Life

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, reportedly joined a private call between US President-elect Donald Trump and Google CEO Sundar Pichai. As reported by The Information, Sundar Pichai contacted Trump to congratulate him on his victory in the presidential race.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, reportedly joined a private call between US President-elect Donald Trump and Google CEO Sundar Pichai. As reported by The Information, Sundar Pichai contacted Trump to congratulate him on his victory in the presidential race. During this call, Musk was also on the line, listening in as Pichai spoke with the President-elect. Consistent figure around Trump In recent months, Musk has been a consistent figure around Trump, often seen at his Florida residence. Reports suggest Musk rarely leaves Trump’s side and has become an influential advisor to the President-elect. Musk, who acquired X (formerly Twitter) in 2022, has also participated in discussions with world leaders and offered advice on personnel decisions, both publicly on his platform and in private settings. He has even been appointed by Trump to co-lead a commission called the "Department of Government Efficiency." Also read: ‘I feel like Bin Laden,’ Florida man arrested by FBI for planning to bomb NYSE Trump publicly praised Musk during his victory speech, referring to him as “an amazing guy.” He said, “We have a new star, a star is born: Elon. He’s an amazing guy. We were sitting together tonight. You know, he spent two weeks in Philadelphia, in different parts of Pennsylvania, campaigning.” Trump's interactions with other tech leaders Before Election Day on November 5, Trump mentioned his interactions with other tech leaders, including Apple CEO Tim Cook. During a conversation with podcaster Patrick Bet-David, Trump shared that Cook had recently called him to discuss the financial penalties imposed on Apple by the European Union. “Two hours ago, three hours ago, he (Cook) called me,” Trump said. Federal records show Musk contributed at least $119 million to a pro-Trump political group. He publicly endorsed Trump on July 13, following an assassination attempt on the candidate in Butler, Pennsylvania. Musk became an outspoken supporter during the final days of the campaign and spent election night with Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

Tech titans and Trump: Elon Musk joins as Sundar Pichai dials US President-elect

Just days after an undersea cable connecting Germany and Finland was severed Denmark has detected the presence of a Chinese vessel near the Baltic Sea. The Danish Navy confirmed the presence of Chinese vessel Yi Peng 3 anchoring at the Kattegat Strait separating Denmark in Sweden. Watch in for more details!

Undersea Cable Cuts In The Baltic: Denmark Detects Chinese Vessel Near Baltic Sea

The conflict in Ukraine reaches a dangerous new chapter. American weapons are now striking Russian soil. The Biden administration's quiet approval marks a dramatic shift in policy, with ripple effects across the geopolitical landscape.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Accuses West of Provocation

Maharashtra, the most sought after state for major parties, is witnessing a fierce political battle. With more than 9.6 crore voters going to cast their votes today, 4,136 candidates – 2,050 from various parties and 2,086 independents – are vying to make it to the 288-member assembly.

Maharashtra Election 2024: Maharashtra Votes Today In Single Phase

Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu offers big cash reward and safe way out of war-torn Gaza as inducement to free Israeli captives.

Israel PM Netanyahu Offers Money To Free Gaza Hostages

Delhi Air Pollution Crisis: Work From Home For 50% Delhi Government Employees

Prosecutors who secured a historic criminal conviction of Donald Trump signalled Tuesday they would accept a new delay for sentencing, as the judge deliberated how best to proceed against the US president-elect.

Prosecutors who secured a historic criminal conviction of Donald Trump signalled Tuesday they would accept a new delay for sentencing, as the judge deliberated how best to proceed against the US president-elect. Trump was convicted of 34 felony counts in May after a jury found he had fraudulently manipulated business records to cover up an alleged sexual encounter with porn star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election. Judge Juan Merchan was widely expected to rule Tuesday on how to proceed with the case following Trump's election win, and his decision could now come at any time. The options open to the justice include an outright dismissal, an indefinite delay to sentencing, or the imposition of punishment before inauguration day. He could also order a retrial for a future date. Trump is slated to be sentenced on November 26, but his legal team's efforts to have the conviction thrown out will almost certainly see that date pushed back -- or scrapped altogether. His lawyers have argued that a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court, with a 6-3 conservative majority, that US presidents have sweeping immunity from prosecution for a range of official acts committed while in office applies in the hush money case. Also read | Who is Linda McMahon? Donald Trump's pick for education secretary Ahead of the election, Trump's team moved to have the case thrown out in light of the Supreme Court decision, a move which prosecutors continue to reject. However, prosecutors on Tuesday said that "consideration must be given to various... options" other than throwing out the case. They could include "deferral of all remaining criminal proceedings until after the end of the defendant's upcoming presidential term" -- opening the door to Trump escaping punishment until 2029. If Merchan decides to throw out the case on the basis of Trump's pleas, there will be no sentencing. 'Must be dismissed' One of Trump's lawyers, Emil Bove, who is in line for a job in the Department of Justice in the incoming administration, said last week that "the stay and dismissal (of the case) are necessary to avoid unconstitutional impediments to President Trump's ability to govern." Bove pointed to Special Counsel Jack Smith's decision to vacate deadlines in a 2020 election interference case, delaying it indefinitely -- but not yet dropping it outright. Smith's move in the federal case is in step with long-standing Department of Justice policy not to prosecute sitting US presidents. Thomas Goldstein, the publisher of SCOTUSblog, a leading legal site, wrote in a New York Times editorial the Manhattan prosecution "seems to be driven by politics and hatred of Mr Trump. That reinforces why (it) must be dismissed." Trump has repeatedly derided the hush money case as a witch hunt, saying it "should be rightfully terminated." Alongside the New York case, brought by state-level prosecutors, Trump faces two active federal cases: one related to his effort to overturn the 2020 election and the other connected to classified documents he allegedly mishandled after leaving office. Also read | Trump names TV star 'Dr Oz' to lead Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services However, as president, he would be able to intervene to end those cases, and Smith, the special counsel handling both cases, has reportedly begun to wind them down. A Trump-appointed federal judge had already thrown out the documents case, but Smith had sought to appeal that decision. "One of the many troubling things about Trump's reelection is that he will largely avoid accountability in his four criminal cases," said former prosecutor Randall Eliason. He called for sentencing to proceed, but for Judge Merchan to fashion a sentence that would not interfere with Trump's duties as commander-in-chief. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Prosecutors open to new Donald Trump sentencing delay

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory.

<h2>'Nonpersistent' landmines</h2>

As per a Washington Post report citing unnamed US officials, the newly authorised land mines are described as "nonpersistent," which means they are designed to self-destruct or deactivate within a set timeframe to minimise risks to civilians.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-amid-shifting-political-winds-zelensky-warns-ukraine-will-lose-without-us-aid-777517">Russia-Ukraine war:&nbsp;Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid</a>

Ukrainian officials have reportedly pledged to restrict their use to non-populated areas, focusing on the embattled eastern front where Russian forces have gained significant ground. &nbsp;

"Russia is attacking Ukrainian lines in the east with waves of troops, regardless of the casualties that they're suffering," one of the officials told WP adding "So the Ukrainians are obviously taking losses, and more towns and cities are at risk of falling. These mines were made specifically to combat exactly this."

"When they're used in concert with the other munitions that we already are providing Ukraine, the intent is that they will contribute to a more effective defense," they explained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-approves-nuclear-strikes-on-non-nuclear-states-777334" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states</a>

<h2>Ethical and diplomatic backlash &nbsp;</h2>

The decision has reignited global debate over the use of anti-personnel landmines. While neither the United States nor Russia is one of the 164 signatories of the Ottawa Convention, aka the Mine Ban Treaty, that prohibits the deployment and transfer of antipersonnel mines, Ukraine is.

Human Rights Watch denounced the decision, calling it "shocking and devastating," and Deputy Director Mary Wareham cautioned that even "nonpersistent" mines endanger civilians, hinder cleanup, and cannot always be safely deactivated.

Furthermore,&nbsp;the deployment of US-supplied anti-personnel mines could influence other nations to reconsider their stances on the Ottawa Convention. Earlier this year, the Baltic States like Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia debated leaving the treaty to strengthen their defences against Russian aggression, but ultimately opted to reinforce antitank measures instead.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory.

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory. 'Nonpersistent' landmines As per a Washington Post report citing unnamed US officials, the newly authorised land mines are described as "nonpersistent," which means they are designed to self-destruct or deactivate within a set timeframe to minimise risks to civilians. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid Ukrainian officials have reportedly pledged to restrict their use to non-populated areas, focusing on the embattled eastern front where Russian forces have gained significant ground. "Russia is attacking Ukrainian lines in the east with waves of troops, regardless of the casualties that they're suffering," one of the officials told WP adding "So the Ukrainians are obviously taking losses, and more towns and cities are at risk of falling. These mines were made specifically to combat exactly this." "When they're used in concert with the other munitions that we already are providing Ukraine, the intent is that they will contribute to a more effective defense," they explained. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin signs decree allowing nuclear strikes on non-nuclear states Ethical and diplomatic backlash The decision has reignited global debate over the use of anti-personnel landmines. While neither the United States nor Russia is one of the 164 signatories of the Ottawa Convention, aka the Mine Ban Treaty, that prohibits the deployment and transfer of antipersonnel mines, Ukraine is. Human Rights Watch denounced the decision, calling it "shocking and devastating," and Deputy Director Mary Wareham cautioned that even "nonpersistent" mines endanger civilians, hinder cleanup, and cannot always be safely deactivated. Furthermore, the deployment of US-supplied anti-personnel mines could influence other nations to reconsider their stances on the Ottawa Convention. Earlier this year, the Baltic States like Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia debated leaving the treaty to strengthen their defences against Russian aggression, but ultimately opted to reinforce antitank measures instead. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden approves anti-personnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report

Amid shifting political winds and&nbsp;Trump's return&nbsp;to the White House, Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky gave a stark statement on November 19 saying Ukraine will lose against Russia if the US cut the aid for the country.&nbsp;"We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," Zelensky said in an interview to Fox News. Zelensky's statement holds significance as the Republican, during his election campaign, cleared his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Talking of Trump's second term, the US President-elect announced the TV star and former Fox News commentator Dr&nbsp;Mehmet Oz (known as 'Dr Oz') to lead&nbsp;the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.&nbsp;Taking to his Truth Social platform, the Republican wrote, "America is facing a Healthcare Crisis and there may be no Physician more qualified and capable than Dr. Oz to Make America Healthy Again."

Moving on, the current US President Joe Biden reportedly authorised the provision of antipersonnel land mines to Ukraine. The step has long drawn criticism from arms control groups but will boost Ukraine's defences against advancing Russian troops.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-amid-shifting-political-winds-zelensky-warns-ukraine-will-lose-without-us-aid-777517">Russia-Ukraine war | Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/20/466906-new-wion-37.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: without continued US military aid, Ukraine's ability to withstand Russia's ongoing invasion is at grave risk. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday (Nov 19), Zelensky admitted, "If they cut (the aid), we will — I think we will lose".&nbsp;"We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," he added.&nbsp;The President of the war-torn nation also highlighted the critical importance of US-Ukraine unity, describing it as the foundation of Ukraine's resilience.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-approves-antipersonnel-land-mines-for-ukraine-amid-escalating-conflict-with-russia-report-777545">Biden approves antipersonnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/20/466924-new-wion-39.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory.&nbsp;As per a Washington Post report citing unnamed US officials, the newly authorised land mines are described as "nonpersistent," which means they are designed to self-destruct or deactivate within a set timeframe to minimise risks to civilians.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-names-tv-star-dr-oz-to-lead-centers-for-medicare-and-medicaid-services-777528">Trump names TV star 'Dr Oz' to lead Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/20/466914-00036mv9my.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President-elect Donald Trump announced Dr Mehmet Oz, a former surgeon and TV celebrity known as "Dr Oz," to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on Tuesday (Nov 19). Taking to his Truth Social platforms, the Republican wrote, "America is facing a Healthcare Crisis and there may be no Physician more qualified and capable than Dr. Oz to Make America Healthy Again."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-chinese-defence-ministers-to-meet-today-777525">Indian, Chinese defence ministers to meet today</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/20/466912-new-wion-38.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun will meet later today in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +). This will be the second India-China ministerial meeting in the last two days and comes as ties turn around after the Kazan meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Air Pollution Crisis: Delhi Govt Orders Hospitals To Set Up Teams For Respiratory Cases

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Amid shifting political winds and Trump's return to the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave a stark statement on November 19 saying Ukraine will lose against Russia if the US cut the aid for the country.

Amid shifting political winds and Trump's return to the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave a stark statement on November 19 saying Ukraine will lose against Russia if the US cut the aid for the country. "We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," Zelensky said in an interview to Fox News. Zelensky's statement holds significance as the Republican, during his election campaign, cleared his stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Talking of Trump's second term, the US President-elect announced the TV star and former Fox News commentator Dr Mehmet Oz (known as 'Dr Oz') to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Taking to his Truth Social platform, the Republican wrote, "America is facing a Healthcare Crisis and there may be no Physician more qualified and capable than Dr. Oz to Make America Healthy Again." Moving on, the current US President Joe Biden reportedly authorised the provision of antipersonnel land mines to Ukraine. The step has long drawn criticism from arms control groups but will boost Ukraine's defences against advancing Russian troops. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia-Ukraine war | Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: without continued US military aid, Ukraine's ability to withstand Russia's ongoing invasion is at grave risk. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday (Nov 19), Zelensky admitted, "If they cut (the aid), we will — I think we will lose". "We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," he added. The President of the war-torn nation also highlighted the critical importance of US-Ukraine unity, describing it as the foundation of Ukraine's resilience. Biden approves antipersonnel land mines for Ukraine amid escalating conflict with Russia: Report US President Joe Biden has reportedly authorised the transfer of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine. This comes after Biden, recently, allowed Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory. As per a Washington Post report citing unnamed US officials, the newly authorised land mines are described as "nonpersistent," which means they are designed to self-destruct or deactivate within a set timeframe to minimise risks to civilians. Trump names TV star 'Dr Oz' to lead Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services US President-elect Donald Trump announced Dr Mehmet Oz, a former surgeon and TV celebrity known as "Dr Oz," to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on Tuesday (Nov 19). Taking to his Truth Social platforms, the Republican wrote, "America is facing a Healthcare Crisis and there may be no Physician more qualified and capable than Dr. Oz to Make America Healthy Again." Indian, Chinese defence ministers to meet today Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun will meet later today in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +). This will be the second India-China ministerial meeting in the last two days and comes as ties turn around after the Kazan meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Watch | Delhi Air Pollution Crisis: Delhi Govt Orders Hospitals To Set Up Teams For Respiratory Cases ×

Morning brief: Russia-Ukraine war updates; Trump's latest picks, and more

Donald Trump has been elected as the new president of United States and his return to the White House has led to mixed reactions. There are several people, including celebrities, who have talked about leaving the country after his win. They say they don't see a future anymore with the reins in Trump's hands again.

The Italian island of Sardinia is going all out to woo people to move there. Ollolai in rural Italy is faced with economic decline and a depleting population. It has been trying to get people to move there and is offering to sell houses for only one euro to attract outsiders.&nbsp;

Now that it has seen how some Americans are unhappy to see Trump win, it has launched a website aimed at would-be American expats. Cheap homes are being offered to those who want to leave the US and Sardinia officials are hoping that people will quickly take up the properties.

The website is selling a "balanced lifestyle" and "opportunities" to prospective residents. “Are you worned (sic) out by global politics? Looking to embrace a more balanced lifestyle while securing new opportunities?” the website asks. “It’s time to start building your European escape in the stunning paradise of Sardinia.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/koreas-4b-movement-attracts-american-women-after-trump-wins-what-is-it-774576">Korea's 4B movement attracts American women after Trump wins. What is it?</a>

While it doesn't say anywhere that it was set up after the US election results, Mayor Francesco Columbu told CNN that the website was created to attract American voters. He is hopeful that Americans will help revive Sardinia.

<h2>Americans will be given preference</h2>

He told CNN that while people from other countries are also welcome, the process will be fast-tracked for Americans.

“We can’t of course ban people from other countries to apply, but Americans will have a fast-track procedure. We are betting on them to help us revive the village, they are our winning card.”

“Of course, we can’t specifically mention the name of one US president who just got elected, but we all know that he’s the one from whom many Americans want to get away from now and leave the country,” Columbo adds.

On offer are three tiers of accommodation - Digital nomads can take up free temporary homes, homes in a dilapidated state on offer for one euro, and ready-to-occupy houses for prices up to 100,000 euros ($105,000).

Columbu adds that assistance will be provided to the buyers at every step. There will be tailored private tours and people will also be provided with a list of contractors, and builders, besides help with the required paperwork.

Ollolai only has about 1,150 residents right now. The population has shrunk from 2,250 to 1,300 in the past century. People have left the island because of the economic conditions.

Donald Trump has been elected as the new president of United States and his return to the White House has led to mixed reactions. There are several people, including celebrities, who have talked about leaving the country after his win.

Donald Trump has been elected as the new president of United States and his return to the White House has led to mixed reactions. There are several people, including celebrities, who have talked about leaving the country after his win. They say they don't see a future anymore with the reins in Trump's hands again. The Italian island of Sardinia is going all out to woo people to move there. Ollolai in rural Italy is faced with economic decline and a depleting population. It has been trying to get people to move there and is offering to sell houses for only one euro to attract outsiders. Now that it has seen how some Americans are unhappy to see Trump win, it has launched a website aimed at would-be American expats. Cheap homes are being offered to those who want to leave the US and Sardinia officials are hoping that people will quickly take up the properties. The website is selling a "balanced lifestyle" and "opportunities" to prospective residents. “Are you worned (sic) out by global politics? Looking to embrace a more balanced lifestyle while securing new opportunities?” the website asks. “It’s time to start building your European escape in the stunning paradise of Sardinia.” Also Read: Korea's 4B movement attracts American women after Trump wins. What is it? While it doesn't say anywhere that it was set up after the US election results, Mayor Francesco Columbu told CNN that the website was created to attract American voters. He is hopeful that Americans will help revive Sardinia. Americans will be given preference He told CNN that while people from other countries are also welcome, the process will be fast-tracked for Americans. “We can’t of course ban people from other countries to apply, but Americans will have a fast-track procedure. We are betting on them to help us revive the village, they are our winning card.” “Of course, we can’t specifically mention the name of one US president who just got elected, but we all know that he’s the one from whom many Americans want to get away from now and leave the country,” Columbo adds. On offer are three tiers of accommodation - Digital nomads can take up free temporary homes, homes in a dilapidated state on offer for one euro, and ready-to-occupy houses for prices up to 100,000 euros ($105,000). Columbu adds that assistance will be provided to the buyers at every step. There will be tailored private tours and people will also be provided with a list of contractors, and builders, besides help with the required paperwork. Ollolai only has about 1,150 residents right now. The population has shrunk from 2,250 to 1,300 in the past century. People have left the island because of the economic conditions.

Americans 'unhappy' with Trump's win can buy dirt-cheap homes on this tiny Italian island

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