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A former prosecutor noted that Special Counsel Jack Smith's main argument in his Supreme Court submission is that Donald Trump should stand trial for election fraud, regardless of any presidential immunity. Smith's brief said that the prosecution should proceed, even if a former president has some immunity from federal criminal prosecution.

"This may be the most critical piece: Smith tells the Court: 'even if you think there might need to be some immunity for a president, it's not this case. Let this one go to trial',"&nbsp;Vance wrote on X, formerly&nbsp;Twitter.

In his argument, Smith wrote that "even assuming that a former President is entitled to some immunity for official acts, that immunity should not be held to bar this prosecution."

"First, a President's alleged criminal scheme to overturn an election and thwart the peaceful transfer of power to his lawfully elected successor is the paradigmatic example of conduct that should not be immunised, even if other conduct should be," Smith wrote.

"Second, at the core of the charged conspiracies is a private scheme with private actors to achieve a private end: petitioner's effort to remain in power by fraud."

"Those allegations of private misconduct are more than sufficient to support the indictment," he added.&nbsp;

Smith heads the federal prosecution against the ex-president, accused of unlawfully trying to overturn his defeat to President Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Newsweek reached out for comment from Trump's lawyer. Last year, Smith charged Trump with various offences related to the January 6 riots at the US&nbsp;Capitol and an alleged scheme involving false elector slates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trumps-media-venture-faces-steep-stock-decline-valuation-drops-to-29-bn-709264">Also read |&nbsp;Trump's media venture faces steep stock decline, valuation drops to $2.9 bn</a>

<h2>What is Trump's take?</h2>

Trump, widely expected to be the Republican candidate in the 2024 presidential race, asserts his innocence and pleads not guilty to all accusations. He accuses prosecutors of politically motivated targeting.

The case is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court on April 25, as Trump seeks to have the indictment thrown out, arguing that he is protected from criminal charges for actions taken during his time in the White House.

Also watch |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump says states should decide abortion rights

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-us-president-donald-trump-says-states-should-decide-abortion-rights-709235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lower courts, initially rejected Trump's assertions of presidential immunity—first by US&nbsp;District Judge Tanya Chutkan in December, followed by the US&nbsp;Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in February. However, in February, the Supreme Court agreed to review the case, stating in a brief order their intention to address the extent of a former President's immunity from criminal prosecution for actions deemed to be official acts.

(With inputs from agencies)

A former prosecutor noted that Special Counsel Jack Smith's main argument in his Supreme Court submission is that Donald Trump should stand trial for election fraud, regardless of any presidential immunity.

A former prosecutor noted that Special Counsel Jack Smith's main argument in his Supreme Court submission is that Donald Trump should stand trial for election fraud, regardless of any presidential immunity. Smith's brief said that the prosecution should proceed, even if a former president has some immunity from federal criminal prosecution. "This may be the most critical piece: Smith tells the Court: 'even if you think there might need to be some immunity for a president, it's not this case. Let this one go to trial'," Vance wrote on X, formerly Twitter. In his argument, Smith wrote that "even assuming that a former President is entitled to some immunity for official acts, that immunity should not be held to bar this prosecution." "First, a President's alleged criminal scheme to overturn an election and thwart the peaceful transfer of power to his lawfully elected successor is the paradigmatic example of conduct that should not be immunised, even if other conduct should be," Smith wrote. "Second, at the core of the charged conspiracies is a private scheme with private actors to achieve a private end: petitioner's effort to remain in power by fraud." "Those allegations of private misconduct are more than sufficient to support the indictment," he added. Smith heads the federal prosecution against the ex-president, accused of unlawfully trying to overturn his defeat to President Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Newsweek reached out for comment from Trump's lawyer. Last year, Smith charged Trump with various offences related to the January 6 riots at the US Capitol and an alleged scheme involving false elector slates. Also read | Trump's media venture faces steep stock decline, valuation drops to $2.9 bn What is Trump's take? Trump, widely expected to be the Republican candidate in the 2024 presidential race, asserts his innocence and pleads not guilty to all accusations. He accuses prosecutors of politically motivated targeting. The case is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court on April 25, as Trump seeks to have the indictment thrown out, arguing that he is protected from criminal charges for actions taken during his time in the White House. Also watch | Former US President Donald Trump says states should decide abortion rights Lower courts, initially rejected Trump's assertions of presidential immunity—first by US District Judge Tanya Chutkan in December, followed by the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in February. However, in February, the Supreme Court agreed to review the case, stating in a brief order their intention to address the extent of a former President's immunity from criminal prosecution for actions deemed to be official acts. (With inputs from agencies)

Special counsel Jack Smith urges Supreme Court to reject Trump’s immunity claim

UK's foreign office has been found to be "somewhat elitist and rooted in the past" in a new report that called for the removal of colonial-era paintings in the Whitehall headquarters in London as well as renaming of the department.

The report was authored by a group of former diplomats, ministers, national security advisers, and senior officials.

The report titled, 'The World in 2040: Renewing the UK's Approach to International Affairs', has been released in collaboration with the UCL Policy Lab and Hertford College, Oxford.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/rishi-sunak-the-proud-british-are-you-sorry-for-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-582205">Rishi Sunak, the 'proud British', are you sorry for Jallianwala Bagh massacre?</a>

"The UK stands today as an 'off-shore' mid-sized power in a rapidly changing world," it acknowledged.

The report was not commissioned by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration.&nbsp;

"The very name of the Foreign, Commonwealth (formerly ‘Colonial’) and Development Office (FCDO) is anchored in the past," the report states.&nbsp;

"A new Department for International Affairs (or Global Affairs UK) would signal a potentially quite different role. Former colonies are making increasingly vocal demands around the need for reparations from colonialism and compensation for damage arising from historical industrial emissions. UK has often sought to project an image of ‘greatness’ to the world that today seems anachronistic. We should give space, be more of a 'team-player', showing humility and respect," it states.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK's colonial legacy back in spotlight | World Of Africa

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London in the past has been accused of carrying a colonial overhang in its ties with a number of capitals that it previously ruled as an exploitative imperialist power.&nbsp;

For countries such as India, vis-a-vis the ties with the UK, the "scars of colonial period are both material and psychological", the country's External Affairs Minister Dr S&nbsp;Jaishankar wrote in his 2024 book 'Why Bharat Matters'.&nbsp;

While the UK "tended to compare itself to France and Germany" in the past, the report said that it has "more in common with G20 nations like Japan and European countries like Norway and Switzerland".

"The balance of geopolitical power is shifting alongside economic power. The world's economic gravity is moving back towards the East driven by growth in China, India and South-East Asia," the report contends.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK's foreign office has been found to be "somewhat elitist and rooted in the past" in a new report that called for the removal of colonial-era paintings in the Whitehall headquarters in London as well as renaming of the department.

UK's foreign office has been found to be "somewhat elitist and rooted in the past" in a new report that called for the removal of colonial-era paintings in the Whitehall headquarters in London as well as renaming of the department. The report was authored by a group of former diplomats, ministers, national security advisers, and senior officials. The report titled, 'The World in 2040: Renewing the UK's Approach to International Affairs', has been released in collaboration with the UCL Policy Lab and Hertford College, Oxford. Also read | Rishi Sunak, the 'proud British', are you sorry for Jallianwala Bagh massacre? "The UK stands today as an 'off-shore' mid-sized power in a rapidly changing world," it acknowledged. The report was not commissioned by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration. "The very name of the Foreign, Commonwealth (formerly ‘Colonial’) and Development Office (FCDO) is anchored in the past," the report states. "A new Department for International Affairs (or Global Affairs UK) would signal a potentially quite different role. Former colonies are making increasingly vocal demands around the need for reparations from colonialism and compensation for damage arising from historical industrial emissions. UK has often sought to project an image of ‘greatness’ to the world that today seems anachronistic. We should give space, be more of a 'team-player', showing humility and respect," it states. Also watch | UK's colonial legacy back in spotlight | World Of Africa × London in the past has been accused of carrying a colonial overhang in its ties with a number of capitals that it previously ruled as an exploitative imperialist power. For countries such as India, vis-a-vis the ties with the UK, the "scars of colonial period are both material and psychological", the country's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar wrote in his 2024 book 'Why Bharat Matters'. While the UK "tended to compare itself to France and Germany" in the past, the report said that it has "more in common with G20 nations like Japan and European countries like Norway and Switzerland". "The balance of geopolitical power is shifting alongside economic power. The world's economic gravity is moving back towards the East driven by growth in China, India and South-East Asia," the report contends. (With inputs from agencies)

UK Foreign Office 'elitist, rooted in past', says key scholarly report

The Russian air force is increasing its use&nbsp;of updated Soviet-era weaponry, adapted for modern warfare, to bombard Ukrainian forces, devastate towns, and gain a battlefield edge for Moscow.

“The experience of the past months and weeks shows that the enemy has significantly increased aircraft activity, using guided air bombs that destroy our positions,” Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said.

The guided weapons, often called "glide bombs," are outdated projectiles traditionally released from Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft directly onto targets. With the addition of inexpensive pop-out wings and a satellite navigation system, these once "dumb bombs" can now be deployed by Russian bombers far beyond the front line, beyond the reach of Ukraine's air defence systems.

The glide bombs have a capacity ranging from 500 kilogrammes to 1.5 tonnes of explosives and can travel over 60 kilometres, creating craters up to 20 metres&nbsp;wide and 6 metres deep.

They are highly destructive, leading Ukrainian analysts associated with Deep State, a group affiliated with the defence ministry, to describe them as a weapon against which Kyiv's forces have&nbsp;“practically no countermeasures.”

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the&nbsp;Financial Times&nbsp;that his country’s soldiers “are being massively, and I would say even routinely, attacked by guided aerial bombs that wipe out our positions”.

Ukrainian defence officials report that Russians have launched approximately 3,500 of these guided aerial bombs at Ukraine this year alone, marking a sixteenfold increase from 2023.

In the third week of March alone, Russia “launched over 700 guided aerial bombs”, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Ukraine requires a substantial increase in modern air defence systems to counter these threats. According to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the rise in glide-bomb attacks highlights the scarcity of air defence weaponry. Delays in European military aid and a stalled $US60 billion package from the US Congress have contributed to this shortage.

During the final week of March, Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, experienced two attacks from "unified multipurpose" glide bombs, which can travel up to 90 kilometres. This marked the city's first encounter with aerial bombs, rather than missiles or drones, since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Since the invasion in February 2022, the Russian air force has played a minor role. The conflict has mainly involved ground battles, resembling a blend of World War I-style trench warfare with modern drone technology.

However, as the fighting has stabilised in recent months, the air war over Ukraine has intensified. In March, Russia launched several&nbsp;cruise and ballistic missiles at Ukrainian energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. These strikes caused prolonged power outages in Kharkiv and endangered hydroelectric power plants in Kaniv and Zaporizhzhia.

At the same time, Kyiv targeted several oil refineries and a drone factory deep within Russia, along with warships and command facilities of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Crimea.

Experts believe that Russia's air force is now taking on a crucial role, shifting the momentum of the war in its favour. This shift is attributed to the development and deployment of glide bombs.

In a recent assessment, the Institute for the Study of War noted that the Russian military effectively used&nbsp;"mass glide-bomb strikes" during the seizure of Avdiivka in mid-February.

Hundreds of glide bombs destroyed the town in the Donetsk region, compelling Ukrainian troops to withdraw.

“These bombs completely destroy any position. All buildings and structures simply turn into a pit after the impact of just one,” Egor Sugar, a Ukrainian soldier who fought in Avdiivka, wrote on X. “And they drop 60-80 on us in one day.”

The leader of the armed forces attributed the use of glide bombs as a significant factor in his decision to order troops to withdraw from Avdiivka. This retreat marked Moscow's first significant battlefield victory in almost a year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-help-hundreds-of-angry-russians-in-orsk-demand-compensation-after-floods-destroys-their-homes-709266">Also read |&nbsp;'Putin help': Hundreds of angry Russians hold rare protest after floods destroy over 10,000 homes</a>

<h2>Large-scale manufacturing</h2>

Currently, Russia is increasing the production of glide bombs and modernising the 500-kilogramme FAB-500 and the 1500-kilogramme FAB-1500 bombs.

Earlier this month, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited a factory in the Nizhny Novgorod region, where he examined production facilities.

The defence ministry said the factory had “increased the production of FAB-500 aerial bombs many times over [and] doubled the production of the FAB-1500”.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia's Glide bombs add to firepower advantage, know all about these bombs

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-glide-bombs-add-to-firepower-advantage-know-all-about-these-bombs-709474/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Yet, Western experts and even prominent pro-Kremlin military bloggers on Telegram, who run channels devoted to Russia's air force, have voiced doubts regarding the FAB-3000.

Several have called&nbsp;it as impractical since it can only be transported by Tupolev Tu-22M bombers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

&nbsp;

The Russian air force is increasing its use of updated Soviet-era weaponry, adapted for modern warfare, to bombard Ukrainian forces, devastate towns, and gain a battlefield edge for Moscow.

The Russian air force is increasing its use of updated Soviet-era weaponry, adapted for modern warfare, to bombard Ukrainian forces, devastate towns, and gain a battlefield edge for Moscow. “The experience of the past months and weeks shows that the enemy has significantly increased aircraft activity, using guided air bombs that destroy our positions,” Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said. The guided weapons, often called "glide bombs," are outdated projectiles traditionally released from Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft directly onto targets. With the addition of inexpensive pop-out wings and a satellite navigation system, these once "dumb bombs" can now be deployed by Russian bombers far beyond the front line, beyond the reach of Ukraine's air defence systems. The glide bombs have a capacity ranging from 500 kilogrammes to 1.5 tonnes of explosives and can travel over 60 kilometres, creating craters up to 20 metres wide and 6 metres deep. They are highly destructive, leading Ukrainian analysts associated with Deep State, a group affiliated with the defence ministry, to describe them as a weapon against which Kyiv's forces have “practically no countermeasures.” Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the Financial Times that his country’s soldiers “are being massively, and I would say even routinely, attacked by guided aerial bombs that wipe out our positions”. Ukrainian defence officials report that Russians have launched approximately 3,500 of these guided aerial bombs at Ukraine this year alone, marking a sixteenfold increase from 2023. In the third week of March alone, Russia “launched over 700 guided aerial bombs”, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Ukraine requires a substantial increase in modern air defence systems to counter these threats. According to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the rise in glide-bomb attacks highlights the scarcity of air defence weaponry. Delays in European military aid and a stalled $US60 billion package from the US Congress have contributed to this shortage. During the final week of March, Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, experienced two attacks from "unified multipurpose" glide bombs, which can travel up to 90 kilometres. This marked the city's first encounter with aerial bombs, rather than missiles or drones, since the start of the full-scale invasion. Since the invasion in February 2022, the Russian air force has played a minor role. The conflict has mainly involved ground battles, resembling a blend of World War I-style trench warfare with modern drone technology. However, as the fighting has stabilised in recent months, the air war over Ukraine has intensified. In March, Russia launched several cruise and ballistic missiles at Ukrainian energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. These strikes caused prolonged power outages in Kharkiv and endangered hydroelectric power plants in Kaniv and Zaporizhzhia. At the same time, Kyiv targeted several oil refineries and a drone factory deep within Russia, along with warships and command facilities of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Crimea. Experts believe that Russia's air force is now taking on a crucial role, shifting the momentum of the war in its favour. This shift is attributed to the development and deployment of glide bombs. In a recent assessment, the Institute for the Study of War noted that the Russian military effectively used "mass glide-bomb strikes" during the seizure of Avdiivka in mid-February. Hundreds of glide bombs destroyed the town in the Donetsk region, compelling Ukrainian troops to withdraw. “These bombs completely destroy any position. All buildings and structures simply turn into a pit after the impact of just one,” Egor Sugar, a Ukrainian soldier who fought in Avdiivka, wrote on X. “And they drop 60-80 on us in one day.” The leader of the armed forces attributed the use of glide bombs as a significant factor in his decision to order troops to withdraw from Avdiivka. This retreat marked Moscow's first significant battlefield victory in almost a year. Also read | 'Putin help': Hundreds of angry Russians hold rare protest after floods destroy over 10,000 homes Large-scale manufacturing Currently, Russia is increasing the production of glide bombs and modernising the 500-kilogramme FAB-500 and the 1500-kilogramme FAB-1500 bombs. Earlier this month, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited a factory in the Nizhny Novgorod region, where he examined production facilities. The defence ministry said the factory had “increased the production of FAB-500 aerial bombs many times over [and] doubled the production of the FAB-1500”. Also watch | Russia's Glide bombs add to firepower advantage, know all about these bombs Yet, Western experts and even prominent pro-Kremlin military bloggers on Telegram, who run channels devoted to Russia's air force, have voiced doubts regarding the FAB-3000. Several have called it as impractical since it can only be transported by Tupolev Tu-22M bombers. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Explained | How are Russia’s low-cost glide bombs changing the nature of the war in Ukraine?

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa can run for office in the upcoming election, the country’s Electoral Court ruled on Tuesday (Apr 9). This comes after South Africa’s electoral officials last month upheld an objection filed against the former president barring him from doing so.&nbsp;

The decision paves the way for Zuma, 81, to run for president as a part of the opposition uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party which he joined in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election.

<h2>What did the court say?</h2>

In its order, the Electoral Court overturned the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) decision to prevent Zuma from contesting in the upcoming elections.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-buy-40000-tents-for-evacuating-palestinians-from-rafah-before-launching-ground-offensive-report-709472">Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report</a>

The court has also dismissed the objection based on which electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya had announced that the former president would not be allowed to run for office.&nbsp;

The IEC’s decision “in terms of which the electoral commission upheld Dr [Maroba] Matsapola’s objection to the second applicant’s [Zuma] candidacy is set aside and substituted with the following: The objection is hereby dismissed,” the court said in its brief order, a day after it heard arguments.&nbsp;

South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994.&nbsp;

<h2>Why was Zuma not allowed to contest?</h2>

On March 28, Moepya acknowledged that the IEC had received an objection to Zuma’s candidacy and that it had been upheld by the electoral body, without any further details.&nbsp;

The objection said that the former president should not be allowed to run for office due to his criminal record.&nbsp;

At the time, MK had said that they would appeal this decision. Zuma stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-former-president-jacob-zuma-barred-from-running-in-may-election-705357">South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma barred from running in May election</a>

In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office.&nbsp;

Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president.

The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC). In January, the ANC suspended Zuma from the party.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa can run for office in the upcoming election, the country’s Electoral Court ruled on Tuesday (Apr 9). This comes after South Africa’s electoral officials last month upheld an objection filed against the former president barring him from doing so.

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa can run for office in the upcoming election, the country’s Electoral Court ruled on Tuesday (Apr 9). This comes after South Africa’s electoral officials last month upheld an objection filed against the former president barring him from doing so. The decision paves the way for Zuma, 81, to run for president as a part of the opposition uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party which he joined in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election. What did the court say? In its order, the Electoral Court overturned the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) decision to prevent Zuma from contesting in the upcoming elections. Also Read | Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report The court has also dismissed the objection based on which electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya had announced that the former president would not be allowed to run for office. The IEC’s decision “in terms of which the electoral commission upheld Dr [Maroba] Matsapola’s objection to the second applicant’s [Zuma] candidacy is set aside and substituted with the following: The objection is hereby dismissed,” the court said in its brief order, a day after it heard arguments. South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994. Why was Zuma not allowed to contest? On March 28, Moepya acknowledged that the IEC had received an objection to Zuma’s candidacy and that it had been upheld by the electoral body, without any further details. The objection said that the former president should not be allowed to run for office due to his criminal record. At the time, MK had said that they would appeal this decision. Zuma stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade. Also Read | South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma barred from running in May election In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office. Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president. The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC). In January, the ANC suspended Zuma from the party. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma can run for May election, court rules

Russian strikes on Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region killed three people on Monday (April 8), its governor said&nbsp;a day after a drone strike&nbsp;on the&nbsp;nuclear plant in the region.&nbsp;Another three people in the Pologivskyi district were wounded, Ivan Fedorov said on social media.

Fedorov said that at least six people were injured after a Russian missile attack hit an industrial facility in Zaporizhzhia city on Monday, without describing the type of facility.

<h2>Another drone shot down over Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station</h2>

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, under Russian control, said another drone had been shot down over the roof of reactor number six. The drone fell on the roof, it said, releasing a picture of the reactor.

The Kremlin has blamed Ukraine for the attacks on the power station and has described them as "very dangerous".

The International Atomic Energy Agency chief earlier condemned a strike on the Zaporizhzhia reactor.

"This cannot happen," Rafael Grossi said on social media, adding: "No one can conceivably benefit or get any military or political advantage from attacks against nuclear facilities. This is a no-go."

More information will be added soon.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian strikes on Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region killed three people on Monday (April 8), its governor said a day after a drone strike on the nuclear plant in the region.

Russian strikes on Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region killed three people on Monday (April 8), its governor said a day after a drone strike on the nuclear plant in the region. Another three people in the Pologivskyi district were wounded, Ivan Fedorov said on social media. Fedorov said that at least six people were injured after a Russian missile attack hit an industrial facility in Zaporizhzhia city on Monday, without describing the type of facility. Another drone shot down over Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, under Russian control, said another drone had been shot down over the roof of reactor number six. The drone fell on the roof, it said, releasing a picture of the reactor. The Kremlin has blamed Ukraine for the attacks on the power station and has described them as "very dangerous". The International Atomic Energy Agency chief earlier condemned a strike on the Zaporizhzhia reactor. "This cannot happen," Rafael Grossi said on social media, adding: "No one can conceivably benefit or get any military or political advantage from attacks against nuclear facilities. This is a no-go." More information will be added soon. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia-Ukraine war: Three killed in Zaporizhzhia strikes; another drone shot down over nuclear power plant

After facing spine pain Kristin Fritz sought help from a rheumatologist recommended by her doctor at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, a decade ago.

During her appointments with Dr. Derrick Todd, Fritz initially experienced a normal consultation process. However, as the session progressed, she recounted feeling uncomfortable as Todd aggressively groped her breasts, suggesting he took pleasure in the act.

It wasn't until last year, when contacted by the hospital regarding Todd, that she understood the violation. She later discovered she was not alone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-court-rules-switzerland-violated-human-rights-by-climate-change-inaction-in-landmark-judgment-709401">Climate inaction by Switzerland violated human rights, rules European Court</a>

“I feel so dishonored,” she told The Associated Press. “I feel so ashamed of myself for not knowing better in the moment to do anything and to be like, yeah, this did feel wrong and I should tell somebody.”

It is worth mentioning that she is one of more than 200 women and several men who have joined a consolidated lawsuit against Todd in Massachusetts’ Suffolk Superior Court.

The lawsuit, which combines multiple filings from the previous year, accuses Todd of subjecting patients to unnecessary pelvic floor therapy, breast examinations, testicular examinations, and rectal examinations.

The lawsuit alleges that Todd, a former rheumatologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital specialising in treating inflammatory conditions of muscles, joints, and bones, began abusing patients in 2010. It further accuses several dozen other defendants, including Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital and Charles River Medical Associates, of being aware of the abuse and failing to intervene.

William Thompson of Lubin &amp; Meyer, Boston-based firm that represents most of the victims, described the case as remarkable due to the significant number of individuals who were exploited by him. Thompson also questioned how such misconduct could persist within the hospital and practice group for so long without detection or intervention.

Anthony Abeln, Todd's lawyer, stated that Todd would not litigate this matter in the media, but he will defend his care as the case progresses through the Massachusetts Superior Court system.

Initially the hospital received anonymous complaint about Todd that prompted an internal investigation. He was asked not to conduct sensitive examinations without a chaperone. In June, he was placed on administrative leave and later terminated.

The hospital reported the incident to the Department of Public Health, the state Board of Registration in Medicine, law enforcement, and Todd's current and former patients.

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In September, Todd voluntarily agreed with the Board of Registration in Medicine to cease practicing medicine nationwide. While no criminal charges have been filed against Todd.

Thompson noted that victims of the abuse ranged in age from teenagers to women in their 60s.&nbsp;The lawsuit alleged Todd would gain their confidence, go beyond treating their rheumatic diseases and become their only doctor while conducting invasive, unnecessary exams.

For Fritz&nbsp;the experience will stay with her for the rest of her life. But she takes solace in the fact that Todd is already paying a price for his actions.

(With inputs from agencies)

After facing spine pain Kristin Fritz sought help from a rheumatologist recommended by her doctor at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, a decade ago. During her appointments with Dr.

After facing spine pain Kristin Fritz sought help from a rheumatologist recommended by her doctor at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, a decade ago. During her appointments with Dr. Derrick Todd, Fritz initially experienced a normal consultation process. However, as the session progressed, she recounted feeling uncomfortable as Todd aggressively groped her breasts, suggesting he took pleasure in the act. It wasn't until last year, when contacted by the hospital regarding Todd, that she understood the violation. She later discovered she was not alone. Also read: Climate inaction by Switzerland violated human rights, rules European Court “I feel so dishonored,” she told The Associated Press. “I feel so ashamed of myself for not knowing better in the moment to do anything and to be like, yeah, this did feel wrong and I should tell somebody.” It is worth mentioning that she is one of more than 200 women and several men who have joined a consolidated lawsuit against Todd in Massachusetts’ Suffolk Superior Court. The lawsuit, which combines multiple filings from the previous year, accuses Todd of subjecting patients to unnecessary pelvic floor therapy, breast examinations, testicular examinations, and rectal examinations. The lawsuit alleges that Todd, a former rheumatologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital specialising in treating inflammatory conditions of muscles, joints, and bones, began abusing patients in 2010. It further accuses several dozen other defendants, including Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital and Charles River Medical Associates, of being aware of the abuse and failing to intervene. William Thompson of Lubin & Meyer, Boston-based firm that represents most of the victims, described the case as remarkable due to the significant number of individuals who were exploited by him. Thompson also questioned how such misconduct could persist within the hospital and practice group for so long without detection or intervention. Anthony Abeln, Todd's lawyer, stated that Todd would not litigate this matter in the media, but he will defend his care as the case progresses through the Massachusetts Superior Court system. Initially the hospital received anonymous complaint about Todd that prompted an internal investigation. He was asked not to conduct sensitive examinations without a chaperone. In June, he was placed on administrative leave and later terminated. The hospital reported the incident to the Department of Public Health, the state Board of Registration in Medicine, law enforcement, and Todd's current and former patients. Also read: WhatsApp deadline looms: 72 hours to accept new terms or delete your account In September, Todd voluntarily agreed with the Board of Registration in Medicine to cease practicing medicine nationwide. While no criminal charges have been filed against Todd. Thompson noted that victims of the abuse ranged in age from teenagers to women in their 60s. The lawsuit alleged Todd would gain their confidence, go beyond treating their rheumatic diseases and become their only doctor while conducting invasive, unnecessary exams. For Fritz the experience will stay with her for the rest of her life. But she takes solace in the fact that Todd is already paying a price for his actions. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 200 women, several men accuse doctor in Boston of sexual abuse, unnecessary examinations in lawsuit

A New York judge on Monday (April 8) denied Donald Trump's bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels.&nbsp;

The development came after a half an hour hearing at&nbsp;the Appellate Division in Manhattan following which&nbsp;Associate Justice Lizbeth Gonzalez issued her decision.

A lawyer for Donald Trump, Emil Bove, said that his client was seeking to stay the case pending the application to move the trial. The prosecution retorted that&nbsp;Trump waited too long to object to being tried in Manhattan. The charges were brought in April 2023.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate who looks set to challenge&nbsp;Democratic President Joe Biden in the Nov&nbsp;5 US election, has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records.

Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump hush money trial will start April 15, judge rules

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It was not specified where exactly Trump's team would like the trial to be held.&nbsp;

The defence claimed&nbsp;that a survey taken by Trump's legal team of residents in&nbsp;Manhattan found that 61 per cent&nbsp;of respondents thought Trump was guilty, and 70 per cent had a negative opinion of him.

"There is real potential prejudice here to moving forward," Bove said. "Jury selection cannot proceed in a fair manner starting next week in this county."

The prosecution claimed that&nbsp;Trump cannot cite media attention as a reason to move the trial.

"He himself has been responsible for stoking that publicity," the prosecution said.

A criminal trial would be the first for a former US president in American history.

<h2>Donald Trump hush money case: What is it about?</h2>

Donald Trump is accused of covering up his former lawyer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence before the 2016 presidential election about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump a decade earlier.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-stormy-daniels-the-porn-star-who-could-send-trump-to-jail-574948">Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial?</a>

Trump has denied any such encounter with Daniels.

The hush money case&nbsp;is one of four criminal cases he faces.

The others are about&nbsp;his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his handling of sensitive government documents after leaving the presidency in 2021. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

(With inputs from agencies)

A New York judge on Monday (April 8) denied Donald Trump's bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels.

A New York judge on Monday (April 8) denied Donald Trump's bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels. The development came after a half an hour hearing at the Appellate Division in Manhattan following which Associate Justice Lizbeth Gonzalez issued her decision. A lawyer for Donald Trump, Emil Bove, said that his client was seeking to stay the case pending the application to move the trial. The prosecution retorted that Trump waited too long to object to being tried in Manhattan. The charges were brought in April 2023. Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate who looks set to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the Nov 5 US election, has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records. Also watch | Donald Trump hush money trial will start April 15, judge rules × It was not specified where exactly Trump's team would like the trial to be held. The defence claimed that a survey taken by Trump's legal team of residents in Manhattan found that 61 per cent of respondents thought Trump was guilty, and 70 per cent had a negative opinion of him. "There is real potential prejudice here to moving forward," Bove said. "Jury selection cannot proceed in a fair manner starting next week in this county." The prosecution claimed that Trump cannot cite media attention as a reason to move the trial. "He himself has been responsible for stoking that publicity," the prosecution said. A criminal trial would be the first for a former US president in American history. Donald Trump hush money case: What is it about? Donald Trump is accused of covering up his former lawyer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence before the 2016 presidential election about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump a decade earlier. Also read | Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial? Trump has denied any such encounter with Daniels. The hush money case is one of four criminal cases he faces. The others are about his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his handling of sensitive government documents after leaving the presidency in 2021. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback

State Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, on Monday (Apr 8) approved a questionnaire for jury selection. She also approved instructions for prospective jurors as the trial is set to begin next week.

The questionnaire contains 42 numbered questions on a range of topics. Interestingly, it doesn’t carry questions asking about party affiliation, political contributions or voting history.

<h2>The question of political affiliation</h2>

Trump’s attorneys had earlier argued that asking out these questions was necessary as to whether the prospective jurors liked Trump or not was significant for the case. The judge dismissed the plea, saying that “contrary to defense counsel’s arguments, the purpose of jury selection is not to determine whether a prospective juror likes or does not like one of the parties.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNtIT7nrWFAxVTUfUHHWhRCHsQvOMEKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-loses-bid-to-delay-hush-money-trial-in-major-courtroom-setback-709192" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-loses-bid-to-delay-hush-money-trial-in-major-courtroom-setback-709192&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNtIT7nrWFAxVTUfUHHWhRCHsQvOMEKAB6BAgPEAE">Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback</a>

"Such questions are irrelevant because they do not go to the issue of the prospective juror’s qualifications," Merchan wrote. "The ultimate issue is whether the prospective juror can ensure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law," he added.

Although he said the hints about the political affiliations can be derived from the answers to other questions already included in the questionnaire.

Watch:&nbsp;WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes

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The question about the political affiliation of the jurors has also been raised in Trump's classified documents case in Florida.

<h2>Anonymity of the prospective jurors</h2>

In the hush money trial, Judge Merchan also said that steps would be taken to ensure the anonymity of the prospective jurors. They will be informed before they enter the courtroom that they will be identified by the numbers printed on their jury summonses “as a necessary measure to ensure anonymity.”

Last month, he ruled that the names of the jurors would be shielded from media, citing the “likelihood of bribery, jury tampering, or of physical injury or harassment of juror(s).”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNtIT7nrWFAxVTUfUHHWhRCHsQvOMEKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-news-donald-trump-dismisses-report-about-him-pressuring-ukraine-to-give-russia-some-territory-708846" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-news-donald-trump-dismisses-report-about-him-pressuring-ukraine-to-give-russia-some-territory-708846&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNtIT7nrWFAxVTUfUHHWhRCHsQvOMEKAB6BAgREAE">Will Trump ask Ukraine to give up some land to end war? His campaign denies any such plans</a>

The questionnaire came as a state appeal court dismissed Trump’s efforts to delay the trial, now set to begin on April 15.

(With inputs from agencies)

State Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, on Monday (Apr 8) approved a questionnaire for jury selection. She also approved instructions for prospective jurors as the trial is set to begin next week.

State Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, on Monday (Apr 8) approved a questionnaire for jury selection. She also approved instructions for prospective jurors as the trial is set to begin next week. The questionnaire contains 42 numbered questions on a range of topics. Interestingly, it doesn’t carry questions asking about party affiliation, political contributions or voting history. The question of political affiliation Trump’s attorneys had earlier argued that asking out these questions was necessary as to whether the prospective jurors liked Trump or not was significant for the case. The judge dismissed the plea, saying that “contrary to defense counsel’s arguments, the purpose of jury selection is not to determine whether a prospective juror likes or does not like one of the parties.” Also read: Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback "Such questions are irrelevant because they do not go to the issue of the prospective juror’s qualifications," Merchan wrote. "The ultimate issue is whether the prospective juror can ensure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law," he added. Although he said the hints about the political affiliations can be derived from the answers to other questions already included in the questionnaire. Watch: WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes × The question about the political affiliation of the jurors has also been raised in Trump's classified documents case in Florida. Anonymity of the prospective jurors In the hush money trial, Judge Merchan also said that steps would be taken to ensure the anonymity of the prospective jurors. They will be informed before they enter the courtroom that they will be identified by the numbers printed on their jury summonses “as a necessary measure to ensure anonymity.” Last month, he ruled that the names of the jurors would be shielded from media, citing the “likelihood of bribery, jury tampering, or of physical injury or harassment of juror(s).” Also read: Will Trump ask Ukraine to give up some land to end war? His campaign denies any such plans The questionnaire came as a state appeal court dismissed Trump’s efforts to delay the trial, now set to begin on April 15. (With inputs from agencies)

Political affiliation not included in jury questionnaire for Trump’s hush money trial

Germany on Monday (Apr 8) rejected Nicaragua's allegations that it had violated the Genocide Convention, terming them "grossly biased".

“Germany rejects the allegations made by Nicaragua today. Germany does not and never did violate the Genocide Convention nor international humanitarian law, neither directly nor indirectly," legal advisor Tania von Uslar-Gleichen told journalists at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

"On the contrary Germany’s committed to the uphold of international law and this is what we work for internationally. We will tomorrow present our position in detail to this court. So much I can already tell you today, Nicaragua’s presentation was grossly biased and we will be telling you tomorrow how we fully live up to our responsibilities," Tania added.

Berlin is set to present its case in more detail on Tuesday (Apr 9) in the court.

Germany has been one of Israel's staunchest allies since Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7 claiming the lives of 1,200 people, as per Israeli tallies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-senior-hezbollah-commander-in-strike-on-southern-lebanon-709053">Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon</a>

<h2>Nicaragua seeks to halt Germany's military arms exports to Israel</h2>

Nicaragua in its case that it presented before the International Court of Justice on Monday (Apr 8) demanded the World Court to pass an order to Germany halting the exports of military ammunition to Israel.

It also sought the restoration of funding for the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA, stating concerns about Genocide in Gaza.

Nicaragua's agent ambassador Carlos Jose Arguello Gomez told the court that Berlin had violated the 1948 Genocide Convention by continuing to supply Israel with arms even after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled it was plausible that Israel violated some rights guaranteed under the genocide convention during its assault on Gaza.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"There can be no question that Germany (...)was well aware, and is well aware, of at least the serious risk of genocide being committed,"&nbsp;Arguello Gomez said.

He told the judges that Berlin was not abiding by the obligations under international law by continuing to provide Israel with military aid.

"This has got to stop," Arguello Gomez said.

Israel has rebuffed all the allegations stating that it has the right to defend itself.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany on Monday (Apr 8) rejected Nicaragua's allegations that it had violated the Genocide Convention, terming them "grossly biased". “Germany rejects the allegations made by Nicaragua today.

Germany on Monday (Apr 8) rejected Nicaragua's allegations that it had violated the Genocide Convention, terming them "grossly biased". “Germany rejects the allegations made by Nicaragua today. Germany does not and never did violate the Genocide Convention nor international humanitarian law, neither directly nor indirectly," legal advisor Tania von Uslar-Gleichen told journalists at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). "On the contrary Germany’s committed to the uphold of international law and this is what we work for internationally. We will tomorrow present our position in detail to this court. So much I can already tell you today, Nicaragua’s presentation was grossly biased and we will be telling you tomorrow how we fully live up to our responsibilities," Tania added. Berlin is set to present its case in more detail on Tuesday (Apr 9) in the court. Germany has been one of Israel's staunchest allies since Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7 claiming the lives of 1,200 people, as per Israeli tallies. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon Nicaragua seeks to halt Germany's military arms exports to Israel Nicaragua in its case that it presented before the International Court of Justice on Monday (Apr 8) demanded the World Court to pass an order to Germany halting the exports of military ammunition to Israel. It also sought the restoration of funding for the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA, stating concerns about Genocide in Gaza. Nicaragua's agent ambassador Carlos Jose Arguello Gomez told the court that Berlin had violated the 1948 Genocide Convention by continuing to supply Israel with arms even after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled it was plausible that Israel violated some rights guaranteed under the genocide convention during its assault on Gaza. "There can be no question that Germany (...)was well aware, and is well aware, of at least the serious risk of genocide being committed," Arguello Gomez said. He told the judges that Berlin was not abiding by the obligations under international law by continuing to provide Israel with military aid. "This has got to stop," Arguello Gomez said. Israel has rebuffed all the allegations stating that it has the right to defend itself. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany rebuffs Nicaragua's accusations of violating Genocide Convention, calls them 'grossly biased'

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a bid to woo young voters, joined TikTok and shared his first post on the social media platform.

Scholz took to his official X account and in a post jokingly announced that he had joined the short-form video hosting service.

"I won't dance. Promise. #TikTok," he wrote.

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Mal sehen ;) <a href="https://t.co/D7BuiFwq8g">https://t.co/D7BuiFwq8g</a>
— Olaf Scholz (@OlafScholz) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlafScholz/status/1777269154069782785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Scholz's very first post on TikTok, shared by his new account TeamBundeskanzler (Team Chancellor) on Monday (Apr 8), is a video that showcases a briefcase on a couch before panning over to the German leader sitting at his desk, set against stomping bassoon music.

"The Federal Press Office is expanding its range of information for citizens who are increasingly using TikTok to find out about and discuss politics," a statement from government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit said.

Scholz's presence on TikTok is aimed at targeting young people in particular, as per a statement released by his office.

By Monday morning, Scholz's account had 615 followers, however, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has gained over 411,000 followers over time and&nbsp;is very active on the platform.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-us-states-should-decide-abortion-law-709026">Trump says US states should decide abortion law, dodges stand on national ban</a>

<h2>'TikTok the most appealing app for first-time voters'</h2>

Various leaders across the globe have turned to the social media platform in order to expand their reach among first-time voters.

Earlier, a similar trend was noticed in the Indonesia presidential polls where the three candidates became a part of the social media bandwagon to lure the voters.

They could be seen shaking a leg on famous tracks and also answering questions in real time during live-streamed sessions.&nbsp;

With a user base of over 125 million in Indonesia, the short-form video hosting service has turned into the second-most used application for Indonesians&nbsp;after television. Hence, it was widely used during the presidential poll campaign period.

US President Joe Biden's 2024 re-election campaign also joined TikTok in the month of February even though his administration has expressed security concerns over the app.

Biden's account bio declared he "Grows the economy" while the video was captioned: "lol hey guys".

In the video, Biden could be seen playing a light-hearted, rapid-fire game with questions ranging from politics to the Super Bowl.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a bid to woo young voters, joined TikTok and shared his first post on the social media platform. Scholz took to his official X account and in a post jokingly announced that he had joined the short-form video hosting service.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a bid to woo young voters, joined TikTok and shared his first post on the social media platform. Scholz took to his official X account and in a post jokingly announced that he had joined the short-form video hosting service. "I won't dance. Promise. #TikTok," he wrote. Mal sehen ;) https://t.co/D7BuiFwq8g — Olaf Scholz (@OlafScholz) April 8, 2024 × Scholz's very first post on TikTok, shared by his new account TeamBundeskanzler (Team Chancellor) on Monday (Apr 8), is a video that showcases a briefcase on a couch before panning over to the German leader sitting at his desk, set against stomping bassoon music. "The Federal Press Office is expanding its range of information for citizens who are increasingly using TikTok to find out about and discuss politics," a statement from government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit said. Scholz's presence on TikTok is aimed at targeting young people in particular, as per a statement released by his office. By Monday morning, Scholz's account had 615 followers, however, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has gained over 411,000 followers over time and is very active on the platform. Also read: Trump says US states should decide abortion law, dodges stand on national ban 'TikTok the most appealing app for first-time voters' Various leaders across the globe have turned to the social media platform in order to expand their reach among first-time voters. Earlier, a similar trend was noticed in the Indonesia presidential polls where the three candidates became a part of the social media bandwagon to lure the voters. They could be seen shaking a leg on famous tracks and also answering questions in real time during live-streamed sessions. With a user base of over 125 million in Indonesia, the short-form video hosting service has turned into the second-most used application for Indonesians after television. Hence, it was widely used during the presidential poll campaign period. US President Joe Biden's 2024 re-election campaign also joined TikTok in the month of February even though his administration has expressed security concerns over the app. Biden's account bio declared he "Grows the economy" while the video was captioned: "lol hey guys". In the video, Biden could be seen playing a light-hearted, rapid-fire game with questions ranging from politics to the Super Bowl. (With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz joins TikTok in a bid to woo young voters

A deadly fire in a nine-storey residential tower in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday night killed five, including at least two Indians, Khaleej Times reported. More than 40 were injured in the 750-apartment building in the Al Nahda area.&nbsp;

In the report on Sunday, the media outlet mentioned that the identities of the Indians, a woman and a man, have been confirmed by family and friends.&nbsp;

The media report stated one of the deceased was identified as Michael Sathyadass, a sound engineer at DXB Live in Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-andhra-man-kills-daughter-for-being-dark-skinned-wife-reveals-shocking-details-709090">Andhra man kills 18-month-old daughter for being dark-skinned, wife reveals shocking details</a>&nbsp;

DWTC sent out an email to its employees, which was seen by the Khaleej Times, writing that Michael was known for his "exceptional dedication and loyalty". It added that he has "left a lasting impact".&nbsp;

The email, written by the company's official from Human Resources (HR), read: "Michael became a part of the Dubai World Trade Centre family on November 1, 2022."&nbsp;

"Since then, his significant contributions have played a vital role in the growth and success of his division and the organization at large," it added. &nbsp;

His brother took to his social media to post that Michael was a sound engineer. As per the post, Michael had also contributed to concerts featuring renowned artists such as Bruno Mars and AR Rahman throughout his career.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-man-fatally-stabbed-for-staring-at-two-women-smoking-cigarettes-in-maharashtra-709076">Man fatally stabbed for staring at two women smoking in Maharashtra; 3 arrested</a>&nbsp;

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❗️Two Indians Among Five Dead in UAE High-Rise Fire 
 
The blaze which tore through parts of a huge residential building over the weekend in Sharjah, close to Dubai, has claimed the lives of five people and injured 44 others. (Local media) 
<a href="https://t.co/lBlVWu7gRw">pic.twitter.com/lBlVWu7gRw</a>
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_India_news/status/1777340873052971414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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UAE HRRB Fire: "Five people died in a fire at a residential tower in Sharjah on Thurs... At least 156 people have been forced to stay in temporary accommodation... a further 44 who suffered injuries in the fire, with 17 requiring hospital treatment." 💚RIP <a href="https://t.co/6whGScmVTl">https://t.co/6whGScmVTl</a>
— Phil Murphy (@HRRBFireSafety) <a href="https://twitter.com/HRRBFireSafety/status/1776540699069919232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Newlywed woman died&nbsp;</h2>

A 29-year-old woman, whose identity hasn't been revealed, was the second victim. Her husband is reportedly battling for his life. As per reports, they recently got married.&nbsp;

"They got married in February in Madinah. After their wedding, they moved in together to live in the building in Al Nahda where the tragic incident occurred," the woman's friend said as quoted in the report.&nbsp;

The Consulate General of India replied to Khaleej Times via mail, saying that the embassy has contacted the deceased family.&nbsp;

"We are in touch with the families of the deceased and have extended all necessary support. We have visited hospitals and met others who are getting treatment. We wish for their speedy and full recovery," it said as quoted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A deadly fire in a nine-storey residential tower in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday night killed five, including at least two Indians, Khaleej Times reported.

A deadly fire in a nine-storey residential tower in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday night killed five, including at least two Indians, Khaleej Times reported. More than 40 were injured in the 750-apartment building in the Al Nahda area. In the report on Sunday, the media outlet mentioned that the identities of the Indians, a woman and a man, have been confirmed by family and friends. The media report stated one of the deceased was identified as Michael Sathyadass, a sound engineer at DXB Live in Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC). Also read: Andhra man kills 18-month-old daughter for being dark-skinned, wife reveals shocking details DWTC sent out an email to its employees, which was seen by the Khaleej Times, writing that Michael was known for his "exceptional dedication and loyalty". It added that he has "left a lasting impact". The email, written by the company's official from Human Resources (HR), read: "Michael became a part of the Dubai World Trade Centre family on November 1, 2022." "Since then, his significant contributions have played a vital role in the growth and success of his division and the organization at large," it added. His brother took to his social media to post that Michael was a sound engineer. As per the post, Michael had also contributed to concerts featuring renowned artists such as Bruno Mars and AR Rahman throughout his career. Also read: Man fatally stabbed for staring at two women smoking in Maharashtra; 3 arrested ❗️Two Indians Among Five Dead in UAE High-Rise Fire The blaze which tore through parts of a huge residential building over the weekend in Sharjah, close to Dubai, has claimed the lives of five people and injured 44 others. (Local media) pic.twitter.com/lBlVWu7gRw — RT_India (@RT_India_news) April 8, 2024 × UAE HRRB Fire: "Five people died in a fire at a residential tower in Sharjah on Thurs... At least 156 people have been forced to stay in temporary accommodation... a further 44 who suffered injuries in the fire, with 17 requiring hospital treatment." 💚RIP https://t.co/6whGScmVTl — Phil Murphy (@HRRBFireSafety) April 6, 2024 × Newlywed woman died A 29-year-old woman, whose identity hasn't been revealed, was the second victim. Her husband is reportedly battling for his life. As per reports, they recently got married. "They got married in February in Madinah. After their wedding, they moved in together to live in the building in Al Nahda where the tragic incident occurred," the woman's friend said as quoted in the report. The Consulate General of India replied to Khaleej Times via mail, saying that the embassy has contacted the deceased family. "We are in touch with the families of the deceased and have extended all necessary support. We have visited hospitals and met others who are getting treatment. We wish for their speedy and full recovery," it said as quoted. (With inputs from agencies)

Sharjah building fire: Two Indians among five dead

An Israeli official has confirmed the purchase of 40,000 tents, hinting at&nbsp;preparations for the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city. The move comes amid escalating tensions in the region.

Rafah holds strategic value&nbsp;as it is believed to house four battalions of Hamas, the terrorist&nbsp;group governing Gaza and responsible for the unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel last year. Israel says&nbsp;that achieving its war objectives hinges on an offensive in Rafah. Additionally, there are concerns that Hamas leaders, potentially holding Israeli hostages, may be hiding within the city.

The population of Rafah has swelled&nbsp;to over one million, constituting half of Gaza's total population, due to civilians fleeing the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The influx has raised international alarms, with the United States and others cautioning against actions that could jeopardise Palestinian civilians.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel War: Gaza truce talks still deadlocked despite reports of progress, Hamas says

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<h2>Evacuation plans and tent procurement</h2>

Israel claims to have devised a plan to evacuate civilians before launching any offensive. To support this effort, the Defence Ministry recently issued a tender seeking tent suppliers. These tents are intended to facilitate the evacuation process and form part of the preparations for action in Rafah.

The United States, Israel's ally, has warned against a ground operation in Rafah, stressing on&nbsp;the need for a credible plan to safeguard civilians. Prime Minister Netanyahu's statement came as Israeli negotiators were in Cairo discussing international efforts to broker a cease-fire with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-israels-withdrawal-from-south-gaza-a-rest-and-refit-plan-says-biden-govt-frustrated-708781">Also read |&nbsp;'Frustrated' Biden administration says Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations</a>

Gaza's Health Ministry reported over 33,200 Palestinian deaths and nearly 76,000 wounded in the war. Women and children constitute two-thirds of the casualties, according to the ministry, which doesn't distinguish between civilians and combatants.

The war started on October 7 when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the capture of around 250 hostages.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report &nbsp;conflicts in West Asia involving &nbsp;Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline . WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An Israeli official has confirmed the purchase of 40,000 tents, hinting at preparations for the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city.

An Israeli official has confirmed the purchase of 40,000 tents, hinting at preparations for the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city. The move comes amid escalating tensions in the region. Rafah holds strategic value as it is believed to house four battalions of Hamas, the terrorist group governing Gaza and responsible for the unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel last year. Israel says that achieving its war objectives hinges on an offensive in Rafah. Additionally, there are concerns that Hamas leaders, potentially holding Israeli hostages, may be hiding within the city. The population of Rafah has swelled to over one million, constituting half of Gaza's total population, due to civilians fleeing the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The influx has raised international alarms, with the United States and others cautioning against actions that could jeopardise Palestinian civilians. Also watch | Israel War: Gaza truce talks still deadlocked despite reports of progress, Hamas says Evacuation plans and tent procurement Israel claims to have devised a plan to evacuate civilians before launching any offensive. To support this effort, the Defence Ministry recently issued a tender seeking tent suppliers. These tents are intended to facilitate the evacuation process and form part of the preparations for action in Rafah. The United States, Israel's ally, has warned against a ground operation in Rafah, stressing on the need for a credible plan to safeguard civilians. Prime Minister Netanyahu's statement came as Israeli negotiators were in Cairo discussing international efforts to broker a cease-fire with the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Also read | 'Frustrated' Biden administration says Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations Gaza's Health Ministry reported over 33,200 Palestinian deaths and nearly 76,000 wounded in the war. Women and children constitute two-thirds of the casualties, according to the ministry, which doesn't distinguish between civilians and combatants. The war started on October 7 when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the capture of around 250 hostages. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline . WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report

Japanese Prime Minister says that the country is forced to revise its no war policy alluding to the various geopolitical tensions across the planet. Japanese PM Kishida says that the world is on the verge of a historic turning point. Watch in for more details!

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida warns world at 'historic turning point'

As per the Carnegie endowment for international peace, the Indo-Pacific region is on the cusp of a new missile age driven by perceptions of rising insecurity. Collins Chong Yew Keat, foreign affairs, strategy and security expert from Kuala Lumpur, joins us to discuss.

US plans to deploy new missile systems in Asia Pacific, China opposes US missile development

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a significant ally of Joe Biden, sent a letter to President Obama and Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday on behalf of dozens of congressional Democrats requesting an end to arms supplies to Israel. Watch to know more.

Iranian weapons sent to Ukraine; weapons seized from Houthis

According to the government, the number of fatalities in Gaza since October 7 has reached 33,360, with 75,993 injuries. The missing number exceeds 7,000, with the assumption that they are buried beneath the rubble following six months of Israeli bombing. 9,560 women and almost 14,500 children are among the dead. Watch to know more.

Israeli attacks leave Gaza in ruins, over 33,000 killed 62 percent homes destroyed

Japan's PM Fumio Kishida has arrived in the United States of America this week Kishida will attend a meeting with US President Joe Biden to strengthen economic and defense ties. Watch in for more details!

Japan PM Kishida arrives in US ahead of White House meeting with Biden

Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, is delighting tourists and locals by blowing almost perfect circles of smoke into the blue skies over Sicily. Watch in for more details!

Vortex rings puff out of Europe's largest volcano

International human rights organizations have denounced the United States for allegedly putting Israel at danger of involvement in its war crimes by giving it diplomatic and military backing. Biden encountered growing resistance from his own government to US backing for Israel. Watch to know more.

Explained: US military aid to Israel under scrutiny

As elections in US are round the corner and promises are the talk of the town, but one hot button provision that will be the deciding factor in the upcoming polls would be Abortion. Watch in for more details!

US: Donald Trump says states should decide abortion rights

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Netanyahu vows Rafah offensive - US sends 'Iran weapons' to Kyiv - China: Support Russia-Ukraine talks - 'If India renames places in China...' says Rajnath Singh

Netanyahu vows Rafah offensive | US sends 'Iran weapons' to Kyiv

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that a date has been set for an Israeli invasion of Rafah, Gaza's last refuge for displaced Palestinians, without disclosing that date as a new round of ceasefire talks take place in Cairo.

Netanyahu: Entry into Rafah 'will happen- there is a date'

A Hamas official said on Monday no progress was made at a new round of Gaza ceasefire talks in Cairo also attended by delegations from Israel, Qatar and the U.S., shortly after Egyptian sources said headway had been achieved on the agenda.

Israel War: Gaza truce talks still deadlocked despite reports of progress, Hamas says

A total solar eclipse passed over North America on Monday, putting on a show that was visible to millions of people. A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, completely blocking the sun's face.

Millions witness rare total Solar eclipse across North America

The Vatican on Monday reaffirmed its opposition to gender-affirming surgery, "gender theory" and surrogate parenthood, drawing criticism from advocates for LGBTQ Catholics.

The declaration by the Vatican's doctrinal office (DDF) comes four months after another document in which it supported blessings for same-sex couples, triggering fierce conservative pushback, especially in Africa.

The 20-page text called gender theory "extremely dangerous" and accused it of trying "to deny the greatest possible difference that exists between living beings: sexual difference."

The Vatican also said via the head of the DDF, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, that it opposed the anti-LGBTQ laws enforced by a number of countries with the support of local Catholic groups.

Monday's declaration said having a child via surrogacy violates the dignity of both the surrogate mother and the child, and recalled that Francis in January called it "despicable" and urged a global ban.

Surrogacy is regulated and widespread in the United States and Canada, but illegal in many other countries, and is one way for infertile or same-sex couples to have a child.

There is no suggestion that the new text, called "Dignitas infinita" (Infinite dignity) and describing what the Church perceives as threats to human dignity, was prepared in direct response to the rows over same-sex blessings.

It has been five years in the making and has undergone extensive revisions over the period.

Pope Francis approved it last month after requesting that it also mention "poverty, the situation of migrants, violence against women, human trafficking, war, and other themes", Fernandez said in a statement.

<h2>'GENDER THEORY'</h2>

On gender theory, it said, "desiring a personal self-determination … amounts to a concession to the age-old temptation to make oneself God, entering into competition with the true God of love revealed to us in the Gospel".

The declaration said that "any sex-change intervention, as a rule, risks threatening the unique dignity the person has received from the moment of conception".

It acknowledged the possibility of surgery to resolve "genital abnormalities", but stressed that "such a medical procedure would not constitute a sex change in the sense intended here".

New Ways Ministry, an advocacy group for LGBTQ Catholics, criticised Monday's document, saying its "outdated theology" would contribute to continued discrimination against non-heterosexual people.

"The Vatican is again supporting and propagating ideas that lead to real physical harm to transgender, nonbinary, and other LGBTQ+ people," Francis DeBernardo, the group's executive director, said in a statement.

The Vatican has, nevertheless, tried to reach out to transgender people, who have been cleared by the DDF to be baptised and serve as godparents and have been among invitees to the Vatican.

<h2>ABORTION, EUTHANASIA, DEATH PENALTY</h2>

Fernandez, a liberal theologian and friend of the pope, a fellow Argentine, defended Francis' right to update Church positions in line with the times, noting how, in the past, it had gone from supporting to condemning slavery.

"It now seems that Pope Francis cannot say anything different from what has been said before, as if the teachings of the Church had been permanently set by previous popes," the cardinal lamented.

Monday's declaration doubled down on the Vatican's standing condemnation of abortion, euthanasia and the death penalty.

It also mentioned sexual abuse as a threat to human dignity - calling it "widespread in society", including within the Catholic Church - as well as cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse.

The Vatican on Monday reaffirmed its opposition to gender-affirming surgery, "gender theory" and surrogate parenthood, drawing criticism from advocates for LGBTQ Catholics.

The Vatican on Monday reaffirmed its opposition to gender-affirming surgery, "gender theory" and surrogate parenthood, drawing criticism from advocates for LGBTQ Catholics. The declaration by the Vatican's doctrinal office (DDF) comes four months after another document in which it supported blessings for same-sex couples, triggering fierce conservative pushback, especially in Africa. The 20-page text called gender theory "extremely dangerous" and accused it of trying "to deny the greatest possible difference that exists between living beings: sexual difference." The Vatican also said via the head of the DDF, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, that it opposed the anti-LGBTQ laws enforced by a number of countries with the support of local Catholic groups. Monday's declaration said having a child via surrogacy violates the dignity of both the surrogate mother and the child, and recalled that Francis in January called it "despicable" and urged a global ban. Surrogacy is regulated and widespread in the United States and Canada, but illegal in many other countries, and is one way for infertile or same-sex couples to have a child. There is no suggestion that the new text, called "Dignitas infinita" (Infinite dignity) and describing what the Church perceives as threats to human dignity, was prepared in direct response to the rows over same-sex blessings. It has been five years in the making and has undergone extensive revisions over the period. Pope Francis approved it last month after requesting that it also mention "poverty, the situation of migrants, violence against women, human trafficking, war, and other themes", Fernandez said in a statement. 'GENDER THEORY' On gender theory, it said, "desiring a personal self-determination … amounts to a concession to the age-old temptation to make oneself God, entering into competition with the true God of love revealed to us in the Gospel". The declaration said that "any sex-change intervention, as a rule, risks threatening the unique dignity the person has received from the moment of conception". It acknowledged the possibility of surgery to resolve "genital abnormalities", but stressed that "such a medical procedure would not constitute a sex change in the sense intended here". New Ways Ministry, an advocacy group for LGBTQ Catholics, criticised Monday's document, saying its "outdated theology" would contribute to continued discrimination against non-heterosexual people. "The Vatican is again supporting and propagating ideas that lead to real physical harm to transgender, nonbinary, and other LGBTQ+ people," Francis DeBernardo, the group's executive director, said in a statement. The Vatican has, nevertheless, tried to reach out to transgender people, who have been cleared by the DDF to be baptised and serve as godparents and have been among invitees to the Vatican. ABORTION, EUTHANASIA, DEATH PENALTY Fernandez, a liberal theologian and friend of the pope, a fellow Argentine, defended Francis' right to update Church positions in line with the times, noting how, in the past, it had gone from supporting to condemning slavery. "It now seems that Pope Francis cannot say anything different from what has been said before, as if the teachings of the Church had been permanently set by previous popes," the cardinal lamented. Monday's declaration doubled down on the Vatican's standing condemnation of abortion, euthanasia and the death penalty. It also mentioned sexual abuse as a threat to human dignity - calling it "widespread in society", including within the Catholic Church - as well as cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse.

Vatican rejects gender-affirming surgery and surrogacy in new document

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