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Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on Tuesday (Apr 2) said that he was saddened by the killing of a mayoral and a city council candidate in the city of Celaya. The killings come ahead of the country’s general elections which have been marred by violence.&nbsp;

<h2>About the fatal shooting in Celaya</h2>

Bertha Gisela Gaytán, a mayoral candidate for Celaya, was killed in a shooting on Monday (Apr 1) hours after she requested protection, while city council candidate Adrián Guerrero, who was wounded during the same attack, died the next day.&nbsp;

Gaytán and Guerrero were campaigning in the community of San Miguel Octopan, said the Guanajuato state prosecutor’s office. The mayoral candidate’s death has been described by the authorities as assassination.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-teen-left-unable-to-walk-with-limited-speech-after-school-fight-706910">US teen still unable to walk, has impaired speech, cognition after fight near school</a>

The city council candidate was among the three people who were wounded during the attack. He later succumbed to his injuries, Mexico’s Secretary of Federal Public Security Rosa Icela Rodríguez confirmed on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The duo was attacked on a street in a town just outside the city of Celaya, Guanajuato. The mayoral candidate had just launched her campaign and acknowledged she had asked for protection.

“Assistance has already been requested through the state legal system in the party. We are looking at this issue, to see how it is resolved,” the mayoral candidate told a political rally shortly before the attack.

Gaytán was campaigning for Obrador’s political party and shouting its name “Morena!,” as she was walking down the street when gunshots were heard before she fell on the pavement, reported the Associated Press citing a video of the incident on social media.&nbsp;

The footage also shows people running and falling down. Guerrero was part of a small group that was walking with Gaytán.

<h2>‘Very regrettable’</h2>

At least 15 candidates have been killed since the beginning of this year and months ahead of the upcoming June 2 general election in Mexico.&nbsp;

These incidents have prompted the government to provide bodyguards or bulletproof cars for candidates. However, candidates for municipal positions who are most in danger are often last in line for security, reported AP.

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“These events are very regrettable because they are people who are fighting to assert democracy, who are in the streets, showing their faces, fighting for others and it hurts a lot that this happens in our country,” said Obrador, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

No one has claimed responsibility for Monday’s attack but Mexico’s drug cartels are typically involved in assassination attempts on mayors and mayoral candidates.&nbsp;

Rodríguez, on Tuesday, said the government is committed to respond to protection requests within 72 hours. More than 100 candidates nationwide have asked for protection, she said.

Guanajuato has recently witnessed the highest number of homicides of any state in Mexico, with Celaya arguably being the most dangerous place.&nbsp;

More than 100 million Mexicans will head to the polls to vote in a general election to choose 20,375 people for local and federal offices, as well as the presidency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on Tuesday (Apr 2) said that he was saddened by the killing of a mayoral and a city council candidate in the city of Celaya.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, on Tuesday (Apr 2) said that he was saddened by the killing of a mayoral and a city council candidate in the city of Celaya. The killings come ahead of the country’s general elections which have been marred by violence. About the fatal shooting in Celaya Bertha Gisela Gaytán, a mayoral candidate for Celaya, was killed in a shooting on Monday (Apr 1) hours after she requested protection, while city council candidate Adrián Guerrero, who was wounded during the same attack, died the next day. Gaytán and Guerrero were campaigning in the community of San Miguel Octopan, said the Guanajuato state prosecutor’s office. The mayoral candidate’s death has been described by the authorities as assassination. Also Read | US teen still unable to walk, has impaired speech, cognition after fight near school The city council candidate was among the three people who were wounded during the attack. He later succumbed to his injuries, Mexico’s Secretary of Federal Public Security Rosa Icela Rodríguez confirmed on Tuesday. The duo was attacked on a street in a town just outside the city of Celaya, Guanajuato. The mayoral candidate had just launched her campaign and acknowledged she had asked for protection. “Assistance has already been requested through the state legal system in the party. We are looking at this issue, to see how it is resolved,” the mayoral candidate told a political rally shortly before the attack. Gaytán was campaigning for Obrador’s political party and shouting its name “Morena!,” as she was walking down the street when gunshots were heard before she fell on the pavement, reported the Associated Press citing a video of the incident on social media. The footage also shows people running and falling down. Guerrero was part of a small group that was walking with Gaytán. ‘Very regrettable’ At least 15 candidates have been killed since the beginning of this year and months ahead of the upcoming June 2 general election in Mexico. These incidents have prompted the government to provide bodyguards or bulletproof cars for candidates. However, candidates for municipal positions who are most in danger are often last in line for security, reported AP. Also Read | DR Congo president appoints country's first female prime minister “These events are very regrettable because they are people who are fighting to assert democracy, who are in the streets, showing their faces, fighting for others and it hurts a lot that this happens in our country,” said Obrador, on Tuesday. No one has claimed responsibility for Monday’s attack but Mexico’s drug cartels are typically involved in assassination attempts on mayors and mayoral candidates. Rodríguez, on Tuesday, said the government is committed to respond to protection requests within 72 hours. More than 100 candidates nationwide have asked for protection, she said. Guanajuato has recently witnessed the highest number of homicides of any state in Mexico, with Celaya arguably being the most dangerous place. More than 100 million Mexicans will head to the polls to vote in a general election to choose 20,375 people for local and federal offices, as well as the presidency. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico president mourns killing of two local candidates ahead of general elections

Taiwan Earthquake: A powerful earthquake of 7.2 magnitude earthquake jolted the Islands capital of Tapei. The earthquake has prompted tsunami warnings in the self-ruled island parts of Southern Japan and Philippines.

Taiwan Earthquake: Taiwan, Japan & the Philippines issue Tsunami warnings

Nigeria's defence chief general says the military was being fed bad intelligence by informants, hampering the fight against armed kidnapping gangs who continue to abduct students and residents in the north of the country.

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Foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday (Apr 3) discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and analysed how to put military support for Kyiv on a long-term footing. The meeting was also to mark NATO's 75th anniversary and to prepare for the summit in Washington in July.

They talked about a 100 billion euro ($107 billion) five-year fund proposal and also discussed a plan seen as a way to "Trump-proof" aid for Ukraine.&nbsp;

Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg weighed in on ways to change the process of aid channelling to Ukraine for its fight against Russia.&nbsp;

It is widely expected that the proposals by the NATO chief would give the Western alliance a more direct role in coordinating the supply of arms, ammunition and equipment to Ukraine.&nbsp;

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It's the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForMin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForMin</a> of the year, and it's a special one! 
 
On the agenda: 
 
🔹 Support to 🇺🇦 Ukraine 
🔹 Meeting with Indo-Pacific partners and 🇪🇺 EU 
🔹 NATO’s southern neighborhood 
🔹 New policy on Women, Peace and Security 
🔹 Washington <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NATOSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NATOSummit</a> 
🔹 NATO’s 75th anniversary🎂
— NATO (@NATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO/status/1775487235866959905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"We need to shift the dynamics of our support. We must ensure reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine for the long haul, so that we rely less on voluntary contributions and more on NATO commitments. Less on short-term offers and more on multi-year pledges," Stoltenberg said as he arrived at the Brussels meeting.&nbsp;

Stoltenberg, however, didn't confirm levels of funding and said the aim was for a decision to be taken at a July summit of NATO member states' leaders.&nbsp;

During the meeting, NATO's principles an achievements were discussed, it was reiterated that an attack on one ally is an attack on all.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-lowers-army-draft-age-to-25-to-generate-more-fighting-power-707187">Ukraine lowers army draft age to 25 to generate more fighting power</a>&nbsp;

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This week NATO will celebrate its 75th anniversary. 
 
📺 Watch our documentary that explores the moments that define the Alliance, through the eyes and personal experiences of people who have witnessed pivotal moments in its history<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1NATO75years?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#1NATO75years</a>
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NATO chief noted that Europe now faces war on a scale "we thought was resigned to history". He said that Russia has launched new major attacks, striking Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure in recent days. "And Russia continues to press along the frontlines," he said.&nbsp;

"We must stand firm in our support to Ukraine. and I welcome that Allies continue to make major deliveries of weapons, ammunition, and equipment. […] NATO Allies provide 99 per cent of all military support to Ukraine. So doing more under NATO would make our efforts more efficient, and more effective," he said.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday (Apr 3) discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and analysed how to put military support for Kyiv on a long-term footing.

Foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday (Apr 3) discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and analysed how to put military support for Kyiv on a long-term footing. The meeting was also to mark NATO's 75th anniversary and to prepare for the summit in Washington in July. They talked about a 100 billion euro ($107 billion) five-year fund proposal and also discussed a plan seen as a way to "Trump-proof" aid for Ukraine. Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg weighed in on ways to change the process of aid channelling to Ukraine for its fight against Russia. It is widely expected that the proposals by the NATO chief would give the Western alliance a more direct role in coordinating the supply of arms, ammunition and equipment to Ukraine. Also read: Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack It's the first #ForMin of the year, and it's a special one! On the agenda: 🔹 Support to 🇺🇦 Ukraine 🔹 Meeting with Indo-Pacific partners and 🇪🇺 EU 🔹 NATO’s southern neighborhood 🔹 New policy on Women, Peace and Security 🔹 Washington #NATOSummit 🔹 NATO’s 75th anniversary🎂 — NATO (@NATO) April 3, 2024 × "We need to shift the dynamics of our support. We must ensure reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine for the long haul, so that we rely less on voluntary contributions and more on NATO commitments. Less on short-term offers and more on multi-year pledges," Stoltenberg said as he arrived at the Brussels meeting. Stoltenberg, however, didn't confirm levels of funding and said the aim was for a decision to be taken at a July summit of NATO member states' leaders. During the meeting, NATO's principles an achievements were discussed, it was reiterated that an attack on one ally is an attack on all. Also read: Ukraine lowers army draft age to 25 to generate more fighting power This week NATO will celebrate its 75th anniversary. 📺 Watch our documentary that explores the moments that define the Alliance, through the eyes and personal experiences of people who have witnessed pivotal moments in its history#1NATO75years — NATO (@NATO) April 2, 2024 × NATO chief noted that Europe now faces war on a scale "we thought was resigned to history". He said that Russia has launched new major attacks, striking Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure in recent days. "And Russia continues to press along the frontlines," he said. "We must stand firm in our support to Ukraine. and I welcome that Allies continue to make major deliveries of weapons, ammunition, and equipment. […] NATO Allies provide 99 per cent of all military support to Ukraine. So doing more under NATO would make our efforts more efficient, and more effective," he said. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

NATO chief weighs in on ‘multi-year’ commitments to support Ukraine for ‘long haul’

Uganda's constitutional court on Wednesday refused to annul or suspend an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-uganda-enacts-harsh-anti-lgbtq-law-includes-death-penalty-for-aggravated-homosexuality-597952">anti-LGBTQ law</a> that includes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts, but voided some provisions it said are inconsistent with certain fundamental human rights.

The legislation, adopted in May last year, is among the world's harshest anti-gay laws and has drawn condemnation from rights campaigners and sanctions from Western nations.

Activists say the law has unleashed a torrent of abuse against LGBTQ people, including torture, rape, arrest and eviction.

"We decline to nullify the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 in its entirety, neither will we grant a permanent injunction against its enforcement," said lead judge Richard Buteera, reading the judgment on behalf of his four colleagues.

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However, the court struck down certain sections it said were "inconsistent with right to health, privacy and freedom of religion".

The portions of the act that were voided criminalised the letting of premises for use for homosexual acts and failure to report homosexual acts.

Under the Anti-Homosexuality Act, citizens had an obligation to report anyone they suspected of engaging in homosexuality. This requirement violated individual rights, the court found.

The government will now have to remove these sections from the law, Edward Ssemambo, a human rights lawyer representing the petitioners, told Reuters.

When the law was enacted in May 2023 the World Bank halted new lending to Uganda and the United States announced visa and travel restrictions against Ugandan officials.

The legislation imposes penalties of up to life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations and contains provisions that make "aggravated homosexuality" an offence punishable by death.

It also bans promotion of homosexuality and violations are punishable by up to 20 years in jail.

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Petitioners against the law include a lawmaker and Frank Mugisha, Uganda's most prominent LGBTQ activist. They asked judges to strike the law down, saying it violated their constitutional rights.

"The judges are supposed to...protect vulnerable groups, but they have rather sided with majority Ugandans to punish minority groups," Mugisha told Reuters.

The petitioners would appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court, he said.

The ruling is part of a growing anti-gay crackdown across Africa. Ghana passed stringent anti-gay legislation in February, intensifying restrictions on the rights of LGBTQ people.&nbsp;

Uganda's constitutional court on Wednesday refused to annul or suspend an anti-LGBTQ law that includes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts, but voided some provisions it said are inconsistent with certain fundamental human rights.

Uganda's constitutional court on Wednesday refused to annul or suspend an anti-LGBTQ law that includes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts, but voided some provisions it said are inconsistent with certain fundamental human rights. The legislation, adopted in May last year, is among the world's harshest anti-gay laws and has drawn condemnation from rights campaigners and sanctions from Western nations. Activists say the law has unleashed a torrent of abuse against LGBTQ people, including torture, rape, arrest and eviction. "We decline to nullify the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 in its entirety, neither will we grant a permanent injunction against its enforcement," said lead judge Richard Buteera, reading the judgment on behalf of his four colleagues. Also Read | Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack However, the court struck down certain sections it said were "inconsistent with right to health, privacy and freedom of religion". The portions of the act that were voided criminalised the letting of premises for use for homosexual acts and failure to report homosexual acts. Under the Anti-Homosexuality Act, citizens had an obligation to report anyone they suspected of engaging in homosexuality. This requirement violated individual rights, the court found. The government will now have to remove these sections from the law, Edward Ssemambo, a human rights lawyer representing the petitioners, told Reuters. When the law was enacted in May 2023 the World Bank halted new lending to Uganda and the United States announced visa and travel restrictions against Ugandan officials. The legislation imposes penalties of up to life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations and contains provisions that make "aggravated homosexuality" an offence punishable by death. It also bans promotion of homosexuality and violations are punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Also Read | Baltimore bridge collapse: Authorities open second temporary channel to ease traffic Petitioners against the law include a lawmaker and Frank Mugisha, Uganda's most prominent LGBTQ activist. They asked judges to strike the law down, saying it violated their constitutional rights. "The judges are supposed to...protect vulnerable groups, but they have rather sided with majority Ugandans to punish minority groups," Mugisha told Reuters. The petitioners would appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court, he said. The ruling is part of a growing anti-gay crackdown across Africa. Ghana passed stringent anti-gay legislation in February, intensifying restrictions on the rights of LGBTQ people.

Ugandan court upholds harsh anti-LGBTQ law but says some rights infringed

Israel is facing major diplomatic backlash over the airstrike that killed seven international aid workers, delivering desperately-needed food to the Gaza strip. Israel's defence forces chief of staff Herzi Halevi has issued an apology for deadly Israeli strike on an aid convoy in Gaza. He says the strike was a result of a 'misidentification'. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Are aid workers being deliberately targeted?

Russia President Vladimir Putin has appointed new Navy Commanders - Admiral Alexander Moiseev is the new Navy Chief of Russia.

Russia appoints new Navy Commanders after Black Sea 'setback'

An Israeli strike killed several people delivering food aid to the besieged Gaza Strip on Monday. The foreign nationals -- reported to be from Poland, Australia, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel admits 'unintentionally' killed 7 aid workers in Gaza

Voters in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Wisconsin are casting their ballots in the 2024 presidential primary on Tuesday. Democrat President Joe Biden and his Republican rival former US President Donald Trump are both expected to easily secure win in primaries in these four states. Watch in for more details!

US Elections 2024: Donald Trump visits key battleground states of Michigan & Wisconsin

There are more billionaires in the world right now than ever before, according to Forbes which released its World’s Billionaires List in 2024, on Tuesday (Apr 2). It also features&nbsp;American singer and songwriter Taylor Swift who, for the first time, joined the list of the world’s richest people.&nbsp;

<h2>About the Forbes’ list</h2>

The Forbes’ annual ranking of the world’s richest people shows that not only are there more billionaires than ever before but also that they are collectively worth a record-setting amount with their combined assets estimated at $14.2 trillion.&nbsp;

According to the list, there are a total of 2,781 billionaires in the world, with 141 new names joining this year, including Taylor Swift. The number in 2024 breaks the record set in 2021, by 26 people.&nbsp;

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It is also worth noting that the cost of living crisis, the pandemic, wars, and instability across the world have had very little impact on the billionaires as their collective wealth, in the past decade or so, has risen 120 per cent.

Around two-thirds of the list’s members are worth more than a year ago, with only one-fourth of them becoming poorer. However, much of these gains, according to Forbes, came from the top 20 which added a combined total of $700 billion in wealth since last year.&nbsp;

The United States tops the list with a record 813 billionaires who are worth $5.7 trillion. This was followed by China (including Hong Kong), with 473 worth $1.7 trillion. India ranked third with a record 200 billionaires who have assets amounting to $954 billion.&nbsp;

<h2>Top 3 richest people in the world in 2024</h2>

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, French luxury goods titan Bernard Arnault and his family topped the list with an estimated $233 billion.&nbsp;

He held the top spot for the second time in a row after earning $22 billion more than in 2023, thanks to another record year for his conglomerate LVMH.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-teases-exciting-things-ahead-as-she-wins-artist-of-the-year-at-iheartradio-music-awards-706974">Taylor Swift teases ‘exciting things’ ahead as she wins Artist Of The Year at iHeartRadio Music Awards</a>

Arnault was followed by Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and billionaire who is worth $195 billion. Amazon’s Jeff Bezos secured the third place on the list and is worth an estimated $194 billion.

<h2>Taylor Swift and the richest newcomer</h2>

Swift, with an estimated worth of $1.1 billion, has marked yet another milestone, by becoming the first musician to join the 2024 ranks based solely on songwriting and performing.&nbsp;

Forbes also attributed this rise to the American pop star’s record-breaking first leg of the Eras Tour which is the first to surpass $1 billion in revenue. The 34-year-old is among the 265 newcomers to feature on Forbes’ list this year.&nbsp;

The richest newcomer on the list was Italy’s Andrea Pignataro, a former Salomon Brothers bond trader who launched financial software firm ION Group in 1999 and has grown it since through several high-profile acquisitions. He is worth an estimated $27.5 billion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

There are more billionaires in the world right now than ever before, according to Forbes which released its World’s Billionaires List in 2024, on Tuesday (Apr 2).

There are more billionaires in the world right now than ever before, according to Forbes which released its World’s Billionaires List in 2024, on Tuesday (Apr 2). It also features American singer and songwriter Taylor Swift who, for the first time, joined the list of the world’s richest people. About the Forbes’ list The Forbes’ annual ranking of the world’s richest people shows that not only are there more billionaires than ever before but also that they are collectively worth a record-setting amount with their combined assets estimated at $14.2 trillion. According to the list, there are a total of 2,781 billionaires in the world, with 141 new names joining this year, including Taylor Swift. The number in 2024 breaks the record set in 2021, by 26 people. Also Read | Joe Biden speaks to Xi Jinping on phone, talks about global crises, AI, and climate issues It is also worth noting that the cost of living crisis, the pandemic, wars, and instability across the world have had very little impact on the billionaires as their collective wealth, in the past decade or so, has risen 120 per cent. Around two-thirds of the list’s members are worth more than a year ago, with only one-fourth of them becoming poorer. However, much of these gains, according to Forbes, came from the top 20 which added a combined total of $700 billion in wealth since last year. The United States tops the list with a record 813 billionaires who are worth $5.7 trillion. This was followed by China (including Hong Kong), with 473 worth $1.7 trillion. India ranked third with a record 200 billionaires who have assets amounting to $954 billion. Top 3 richest people in the world in 2024 LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, French luxury goods titan Bernard Arnault and his family topped the list with an estimated $233 billion. He held the top spot for the second time in a row after earning $22 billion more than in 2023, thanks to another record year for his conglomerate LVMH. Also Read | Taylor Swift teases ‘exciting things’ ahead as she wins Artist Of The Year at iHeartRadio Music Awards Arnault was followed by Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and billionaire who is worth $195 billion. Amazon’s Jeff Bezos secured the third place on the list and is worth an estimated $194 billion. Taylor Swift and the richest newcomer Swift, with an estimated worth of $1.1 billion, has marked yet another milestone, by becoming the first musician to join the 2024 ranks based solely on songwriting and performing. Forbes also attributed this rise to the American pop star’s record-breaking first leg of the Eras Tour which is the first to surpass $1 billion in revenue. The 34-year-old is among the 265 newcomers to feature on Forbes’ list this year. The richest newcomer on the list was Italy’s Andrea Pignataro, a former Salomon Brothers bond trader who launched financial software firm ION Group in 1999 and has grown it since through several high-profile acquisitions. He is worth an estimated $27.5 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

Taylor Swift among 141 new billionaires who joined list of world’s richest in 2024

US President Joe Biden & China President Xi Jinping engaged in a crucial phone call. While, China state-agency described the call as candid and in-depth, there were a lot of things on cards as they discussed bilateral ties and global issues.

US & China Presidents hold phone call: Joe Biden, Xi Jinping discuss US-China ties & conflict

The United States has up until now mantained that it had warned Russia about an impening attack by extremists a week before the Crocus City Hall massacre.

Did the US already warn Russia of an attack on Crocus City Hall?

A strong wind swept through several states in the United States causing at least one death and spawning possible tornadoes. Thousands of homes and businesses were left without power in Southern Ohio as winds raged. Watch in for more details!

Deadly storms and tornadoes sweep through US

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with France's Minister of Defense in Paris. Both the leaders discussed the ongoing collaboration with Europe in supporting Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: NATO foreign ministers to discuss long term support for Ukraine

A week after the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, 21 sailors remain onboard the Dali ship involved in the&nbsp;accident. WION first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-shipping-vessel-had-an-all-indian-crew-704493">broke the story</a> on March 26 that all crew members on DALI, including 20 Indians, are "doing fine".&nbsp;

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"One crew member had a scratch on the head. That's that. Rest everybody else is doing fine," a Synergy Marine Group representative told WION on March 26.&nbsp;

The incident also&nbsp;resulted in the deaths of six road workers after the&nbsp;bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River&nbsp;just minutes into DALI ship's 27-day journey to Sri Lanka.

Also watch |&nbsp;Baltimore bridge collapse: Indian crew to stay onboard till probe is over

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It has now emerged that all 21 crew members will remain onboard the ship until the local authorities complete their probe into the incident.

<h2>US jurisdiction over DALI ship</h2>

The US investigators boarded the vessel on Tuesday (April 2) and collected voyage data recorder extracts and related material as part of their probe into the collapse of Francis Scott Key Bridge.&nbsp;The United States, in this context, is a port state.

A port state is a&nbsp;nation that allows Port State Control (PSC) at its ports. The PSC is responsible for inspecting ships that dock in their harbour to ensure they are up to international codes.

"The USA is currently applying its port state jurisdiction to investigate what happened [on March 26],"&nbsp;Mayank Suri, assistant professor at Jindal Global Law School told WION.

"Since it is such a big infrastructure collapse in the United States, they would want to make sure that before they let anybody go out of their jurisdiction, they take&nbsp;their testimony and evidence as well," Suri added. "

"But there are rights of the seafarers as well. Those rights would require that seafarers are let off as soon as the investigation is over... Their welfare must be kept in mind," Suri said further.&nbsp;

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Baltimore bridge collapse: Drone captures devastating aftermath of ship collision 
 
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India's Ministry of External Affairs and the US authorities are continuously in touch with each other over the well being of Indian seafarers onboard DALI ship, WION can confirm.&nbsp;

"All [20 Indians onboard DALI ship]&nbsp;are in good shape, good health. One of them got injured slightly and needed to have some stitches. The stitches have been given and he has then gone back to the ship. Our Embassy is in close touch with the Indians on board and also with local authorities in this matter," Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement last week.&nbsp;

The crew of the DALI is well-supplied with food, water and essential supplies. The crew has also received aid packages from the non-profits.

A week after the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, 21 sailors remain onboard the Dali ship involved in the accident. WION first broke the story on March 26 that all crew members on DALI, including 20 Indians, are "doing fine".

A week after the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, 21 sailors remain onboard the Dali ship involved in the accident. WION first broke the story on March 26 that all crew members on DALI, including 20 Indians, are "doing fine". Also read | Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: DALI ship’s all-Indian crew ‘doing fine’, firm’s rep tells WION "One crew member had a scratch on the head. That's that. Rest everybody else is doing fine," a Synergy Marine Group representative told WION on March 26. The incident also resulted in the deaths of six road workers after the bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River just minutes into DALI ship's 27-day journey to Sri Lanka. Also watch | Baltimore bridge collapse: Indian crew to stay onboard till probe is over × It has now emerged that all 21 crew members will remain onboard the ship until the local authorities complete their probe into the incident. US jurisdiction over DALI ship The US investigators boarded the vessel on Tuesday (April 2) and collected voyage data recorder extracts and related material as part of their probe into the collapse of Francis Scott Key Bridge. The United States, in this context, is a port state. A port state is a nation that allows Port State Control (PSC) at its ports. The PSC is responsible for inspecting ships that dock in their harbour to ensure they are up to international codes. "The USA is currently applying its port state jurisdiction to investigate what happened [on March 26]," Mayank Suri, assistant professor at Jindal Global Law School told WION. "Since it is such a big infrastructure collapse in the United States, they would want to make sure that before they let anybody go out of their jurisdiction, they take their testimony and evidence as well," Suri added. " "But there are rights of the seafarers as well. Those rights would require that seafarers are let off as soon as the investigation is over... Their welfare must be kept in mind," Suri said further. Baltimore bridge collapse: Drone captures devastating aftermath of ship collision (Video credit: news agency ANI)#BaltimoreBridge #BaltimoreBridgeCollapse pic.twitter.com/Uhwy5IGtmo — WION (@WIONews) March 27, 2024 × India's Ministry of External Affairs and the US authorities are continuously in touch with each other over the well being of Indian seafarers onboard DALI ship, WION can confirm. "All [20 Indians onboard DALI ship] are in good shape, good health. One of them got injured slightly and needed to have some stitches. The stitches have been given and he has then gone back to the ship. Our Embassy is in close touch with the Indians on board and also with local authorities in this matter," Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement last week. The crew of the DALI is well-supplied with food, water and essential supplies. The crew has also received aid packages from the non-profits.

Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: Why 20 Indians will stay on board DALI ship till ‘investigation is over’

NASA achieved a resounding success last year when it intentionally crashed a spacecraft into an asteroid. The test was a way to deflect potentially hazardous space rocks from hitting Earth. Our next story tells you how this first-of-his-kind planetary defence experiment now has unintended unintended consequences.

NASA's dart fallout! Asteroid Dimorphos debris may rain on Mars

Israel airstrike in Gaza kills foreign aid workers, Netanyahu admits IDF responsible for strike

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says an Israeli airstrike had mistakenly killed seven people working for the aid charity World Central Kitchen in Gaza. Watch in for more details!

Israel War: Israel admit aid workers killed in 'unintentional' IDF strike on Gaza

Senegal has the youngest president in its history. Bassirou Diomaye Faye once a jail opposition candidate and now dubbed as the man of change was sworn in on Tuesday, Watch in for more details!

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Israel airstrike kills foreign aid workers, Israel Defence Forces' Chief says 'We are sorry' | WION

Botswana&nbsp;president Mokgweetsi Masisi has threatened to send around 20,000 elephants to Germany saying that its conservation efforts and suggestion to limit importing trophies from hunting animals could have an impact on Botswanans.&nbsp;

<h2>Botswana to send elephants?</h2>

The threat comes after Germany’s environment ministry, earlier this year, raised the possibility of having stringent limits on the import of hunting trophies over poaching concerns.&nbsp;

However, the President of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi told German daily Bild that it would only impoverish Botswanans.&nbsp;

According to Masisi, the population of elephants has exploded due to conservation efforts and hunting is an important way to keep them in check.&nbsp;

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The Botswanan president also spoke about how these elephants have wreaked havoc in his country by damaging property, eating crops, and trampling residents.&nbsp;

“It is very easy to sit in Berlin and have an opinion about our affairs in Botswana. We are paying the price for preserving these animals for the world,” Masisi said.&nbsp;

Germans should “live together with the animals, in the way you are trying to tell us to,” he told the Bild, adding that, “This is no joke.”&nbsp;

Notably, the Southern African country banned trophy hunting in 2014 but lifted the restrictions in 2019 under pressure from local communities.

Botswana is home to over 130,000 elephants, one of the world’s largest populations&nbsp;and more than it has space for.&nbsp;

The country has previously sent 8,000 elephants to Angola and another 500 to Mozambique. Last month, Botswana had also threatened to send 10,000 elephants to London.&nbsp;

“We would like to offer such a gift to Germany,” Masisi said, adding that he would “not take no for an answer”.

<h2>Germany and trophy hunting</h2>

The German environment ministry led by Green minister Steffi Lemke has sought to ban the import of trophies.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, animal rights groups have backed Lemke’s proposal and sought the measure calling the practice of shooting an animal and then taking a part of it back home as a trophy, cruel.&nbsp;

It is “a hobby of rich, jaded people who have more money than morals,” a PETA spokesperson told Politico.&nbsp;

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A spokesperson for the environment ministry in Germany told news agency AFP, that Gaborone had not raised any concerns with Berlin on the matter and would remain in talks with African countries affected by import rules, including Botswana.&nbsp;

Berlin is the European Union’s largest importer of African elephant trophies, and hunting trophies overall, said the spokesperson.&nbsp;

The spokesperson also told AFP that as per the current rules African elephant hunting trophies require import authorisation, but that the EU is planning harsher restrictions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi has threatened to send around 20,000 elephants to Germany saying that its conservation efforts and suggestion to limit importing trophies from hunting animals could have an impact on Botswanans.

Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi has threatened to send around 20,000 elephants to Germany saying that its conservation efforts and suggestion to limit importing trophies from hunting animals could have an impact on Botswanans. Botswana to send elephants? The threat comes after Germany’s environment ministry, earlier this year, raised the possibility of having stringent limits on the import of hunting trophies over poaching concerns. However, the President of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi told German daily Bild that it would only impoverish Botswanans. According to Masisi, the population of elephants has exploded due to conservation efforts and hunting is an important way to keep them in check. Also Read | Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack The Botswanan president also spoke about how these elephants have wreaked havoc in his country by damaging property, eating crops, and trampling residents. “It is very easy to sit in Berlin and have an opinion about our affairs in Botswana. We are paying the price for preserving these animals for the world,” Masisi said. Germans should “live together with the animals, in the way you are trying to tell us to,” he told the Bild, adding that, “This is no joke.” Notably, the Southern African country banned trophy hunting in 2014 but lifted the restrictions in 2019 under pressure from local communities. Botswana is home to over 130,000 elephants, one of the world’s largest populations and more than it has space for. The country has previously sent 8,000 elephants to Angola and another 500 to Mozambique. Last month, Botswana had also threatened to send 10,000 elephants to London. “We would like to offer such a gift to Germany,” Masisi said, adding that he would “not take no for an answer”. Germany and trophy hunting The German environment ministry led by Green minister Steffi Lemke has sought to ban the import of trophies. Meanwhile, animal rights groups have backed Lemke’s proposal and sought the measure calling the practice of shooting an animal and then taking a part of it back home as a trophy, cruel. It is “a hobby of rich, jaded people who have more money than morals,” a PETA spokesperson told Politico. Also Read | Entire population of Japan to have same surname by 2531, study suggests A spokesperson for the environment ministry in Germany told news agency AFP, that Gaborone had not raised any concerns with Berlin on the matter and would remain in talks with African countries affected by import rules, including Botswana. Berlin is the European Union’s largest importer of African elephant trophies, and hunting trophies overall, said the spokesperson. The spokesperson also told AFP that as per the current rules African elephant hunting trophies require import authorisation, but that the EU is planning harsher restrictions. (With inputs from agencies)

‘No joke’: Botswana threatens to send thousands of elephants to Germany over hunting row

Federico Gutierrez, Mayor of Medellín, a city located in the Andes mountains in Colombia,&nbsp;has taken a decisive action and&nbsp;has imposed a six-month ban on prostitution in two neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

This comes as Provenza and El Poblado localities which are very popular with tourists have witnessed a rising trend&nbsp;in disturbing incidents, the latest involving an American man found with two minor girls in a Medellin hotel room.&nbsp;

The incident has triggered the ban. The incident at the Medellin has sent shockwaves through the community when an American tourist was spotted with two local girls aged 12 and 13.

The tragic event led to the American man being detained for 12 hours. However, he eventually left the country and escaped to Florida. Notably, the investigation in the case is still ongoing as Mayor Gutierrez while expressing his concern also asked the Colombian authorities to expedite the investigation into the case.

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Mayor Gutierrez pointed out at the need of the ban to combat the sexual exploitation of children in these areas which are known for sex workers. ''We have to recover the control of this area. It is also very important for us to protect the community,"&nbsp;Gutierrez said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-rush-to-join-army-seeking-to-avenge-moscow-concert-hall-attack-707226">Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack</a>

He said, "It is sad to see how many people believe they can come to Medellín and do whatever they want."

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<h2>Sex work is legal in Colombia </h2>

In Colombia, sex work involving consenting adults is legal. However, Colombian laws empower local governments to temporarily prohibit this activity in certain parts of the city if it is considered a threat to public order.

The ban comes at a time when there is a rising concern about the dangers associated with tourists meeting sex workers through dating apps.

US Embassy in Bogota, State Department in an earlier press release said, it has been informed of eight concerning deaths of private US citizens in Medellin between November 1 and December 31, 2023.&nbsp;

These deaths seem to be related to either involuntary drug overdose&nbsp;or suspected homicides, as per the release. Several of the deaths suggested possible scenarios of involvement of the use of online dating applications.

(With inputs from agencies)

Federico Gutierrez, Mayor of Medellín, a city located in the Andes mountains in Colombia, has taken a decisive action and has imposed a six-month ban on prostitution in two neighbourhoods.

Federico Gutierrez, Mayor of Medellín, a city located in the Andes mountains in Colombia, has taken a decisive action and has imposed a six-month ban on prostitution in two neighbourhoods. This comes as Provenza and El Poblado localities which are very popular with tourists have witnessed a rising trend in disturbing incidents, the latest involving an American man found with two minor girls in a Medellin hotel room. The incident has triggered the ban. The incident at the Medellin has sent shockwaves through the community when an American tourist was spotted with two local girls aged 12 and 13. The tragic event led to the American man being detained for 12 hours. However, he eventually left the country and escaped to Florida. Notably, the investigation in the case is still ongoing as Mayor Gutierrez while expressing his concern also asked the Colombian authorities to expedite the investigation into the case. Also Read | Trump launches fresh tirade against illegal migrants, calls them 'animals' and 'not humans' Mayor Gutierrez pointed out at the need of the ban to combat the sexual exploitation of children in these areas which are known for sex workers. ''We have to recover the control of this area. It is also very important for us to protect the community," Gutierrez said. Also Read | Russians rush to join army seeking to avenge Moscow concert hall attack He said, "It is sad to see how many people believe they can come to Medellín and do whatever they want." Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia attacks educational facility in Ukraine × Sex work is legal in Colombia In Colombia, sex work involving consenting adults is legal. However, Colombian laws empower local governments to temporarily prohibit this activity in certain parts of the city if it is considered a threat to public order. The ban comes at a time when there is a rising concern about the dangers associated with tourists meeting sex workers through dating apps. US Embassy in Bogota, State Department in an earlier press release said, it has been informed of eight concerning deaths of private US citizens in Medellin between November 1 and December 31, 2023. These deaths seem to be related to either involuntary drug overdose or suspected homicides, as per the release. Several of the deaths suggested possible scenarios of involvement of the use of online dating applications. (With inputs from agencies)

Medellin Mayor Federico Gutierrez imposes 6-month prostitution ban after tourist spotted with minors

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is expected to travel to New Delhi on April 18, where he will hold key talks with his Indian counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. The primary agenda for Sullivan's visit revolves around the review of the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative.

US NSA Jake Sullivan expected to visit New Delhi on April 18

At the Astana meeting of the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) grouping, Indian NSA Ajit Doval has underscored the concerns over terrorism, especially cross-border terrorism.

Astana SCO NSAs meet: India's NSA Ajit Doval says cross-border terror unjustifiable

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