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Ukraine's first lady Olena Zelenska has declined US First Lady Jill Biden's invitation to attend Thursday's (March 7) State of the Union address. Another invitee, Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in an Arctic prison, has also decided to forego one of Washington's most dignified events.&nbsp;

<h2>A plan spoiled</h2>

As per a Washington Post report citing officials familiar with the event's planning, the intent was to seat the two women on either side of Jill Biden.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-airdrops-fresh-round-of-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-36800-meals-delivered-697053">Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered</a>

Reportedly, this arrangement would have symbolised resistance to Russian President Vladimir Putin and provided a powerful backdrop to President Biden’s address to a joint session of Congress.

<h2>Why did they cancel?</h2>

The potential presence of Navalnaya is believed to have been a cause of discomfort to the Ukrainians. This is because Navalny's past statements regarding Crimea being part of Russia have clouded his legacy in Ukraine.

Despite Navalny later supporting Ukraine's internationally recognised borders, many Ukrainians continue to view the Kremlin critic as out of step with their goals.

A White House official cited "schedule conflicts" as the reason for Zelenska’s decision and said that the seating arrangement is typically finalised near the end of the planning process.

Navalnaya also declined the invitation, citing fatigue following her husband's recent death.&nbsp;

Her spokesperson Kira Yarmysh said, "I think everyone forgets the circumstances against which the events unfolded."

"Yulia's husband died two weeks ago. She's been travelling all this time. Today is the first day she's been home at all. Like any human being, she needs time to recover, and so while she very much appreciates the invitation, she needs to recover at least a little now," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-you-more-and-more-alexei-navalnys-last-message-for-his-wife-from-jail-691011">‘Love you more and more,’ Navalny’s last message for his wife Yulia. Who is she?</a>

This year, guests may include the parents of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter detained in Russia, the first person born via in-vitro fertilisation in the United States, and families of Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip.

As of now, there is only confirmation of one guest, Kate Cox, a Dallas-area woman who was forced to seek an abortion outside of Texas after a near-total ban in the state. The abortion was made necessary by a fetal genetic condition.

<h2>Biden and Ukraine</h2>

Ukraine is currently lobbying House Republicans to support President Joe Biden's request for $60 billion in aid.&nbsp;

In his address, Biden is expected to urge House Republicans to pass the Ukraine funding quickly.

The government of President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly been seeking to avoid being seen as too closely aligned with Biden to prevent further politicisation of the war effort.&nbsp;

As per the report, this could also be because of the possibility that Republican Donald Trump may replace him in the White House after the November elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's first lady Olena Zelenska has declined US First Lady Jill Biden's invitation to attend Thursday's (March 7) State of the Union address. Another invitee, Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in an Arctic prison, has also decided to forego one of Washington's most dignified events.

Ukraine's first lady Olena Zelenska has declined US First Lady Jill Biden's invitation to attend Thursday's (March 7) State of the Union address. Another invitee, Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in an Arctic prison, has also decided to forego one of Washington's most dignified events. A plan spoiled As per a Washington Post report citing officials familiar with the event's planning, the intent was to seat the two women on either side of Jill Biden. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US airdrops fresh round of humanitarian aid to Gaza; 36,800 meals delivered Reportedly, this arrangement would have symbolised resistance to Russian President Vladimir Putin and provided a powerful backdrop to President Biden’s address to a joint session of Congress. Why did they cancel? The potential presence of Navalnaya is believed to have been a cause of discomfort to the Ukrainians. This is because Navalny's past statements regarding Crimea being part of Russia have clouded his legacy in Ukraine. Despite Navalny later supporting Ukraine's internationally recognised borders, many Ukrainians continue to view the Kremlin critic as out of step with their goals. A White House official cited "schedule conflicts" as the reason for Zelenska’s decision and said that the seating arrangement is typically finalised near the end of the planning process. Navalnaya also declined the invitation, citing fatigue following her husband's recent death. Her spokesperson Kira Yarmysh said, "I think everyone forgets the circumstances against which the events unfolded." "Yulia's husband died two weeks ago. She's been travelling all this time. Today is the first day she's been home at all. Like any human being, she needs time to recover, and so while she very much appreciates the invitation, she needs to recover at least a little now," she added. Also read | ‘Love you more and more,’ Navalny’s last message for his wife Yulia. Who is she? This year, guests may include the parents of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter detained in Russia, the first person born via in-vitro fertilisation in the United States, and families of Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip. As of now, there is only confirmation of one guest, Kate Cox, a Dallas-area woman who was forced to seek an abortion outside of Texas after a near-total ban in the state. The abortion was made necessary by a fetal genetic condition. Biden and Ukraine Ukraine is currently lobbying House Republicans to support President Joe Biden's request for $60 billion in aid. In his address, Biden is expected to urge House Republicans to pass the Ukraine funding quickly. The government of President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly been seeking to avoid being seen as too closely aligned with Biden to prevent further politicisation of the war effort. As per the report, this could also be because of the possibility that Republican Donald Trump may replace him in the White House after the November elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's first lady and Alexei Navalny's wife decline Jill Biden's invitation to State of the Union address

California, Virginia, Minnesota and a dozen other states hold primaries across the United States on 'Super Tuesday,' with an enormous haul of delegates available for the taking. Former president Donald Trump holds an election night party for Super Tuesday at his Florida Mar-a-Lago estate.

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United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz at the White House on Monday (Mar 4). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, a White House official said that Vice President Harris would express her concern over the safety of 1.

United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz at the White House on Monday (Mar 4). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, a White House official said that Vice President Harris would express her concern over the safety of 1.5 million people in the Gaza Strip's Rafah. The official said that Israel had a right to "defend itself in the face of continued Hamas terrorist threats." The talks are expected to span topics including reducing Palestinian civilian casualties, securing a temporary ceasefire, the release of hostages held in Gaza and increasing aid to the territory, the official added. Also watch | Kamala Harris issues US' sharpest rebuke yet, calls out Israel for the 'catastrophe', says it 'must do more' A statement from Gantz confirmed that he would meet Harris. He would also hold meetings with US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan and Republican and Democratic members of Congress. "Minister Gantz personally updated the prime minister on his own initiative on Friday of his intention to travel, in order to coordinate the messages to be transmitted in the meetings," the statement said. 'Israel has just one PM' The upcoming meeting between Harris and Gantz comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rebuked the war cabinet member for visiting Washington and holding talks with US officials. Gantz, a centrist political rival, joined Netanyahu's war cabinet after the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year. Also watch | Mediators in Cairo make a renewed push for a Gaza ceasefire An official from Netanyahu's Likud party said that Gantz's trip to the US was planned without authorisation from the prime minister. The official, who chose to remain anonymous, told the news agency Associated Press that Netanyahu had a “tough talk” with Gantz and told him that Israel has just one PM. Netanyahu's popularity dropped since war began Netanyahu's popularity at home has dropped since the conflict began, opinion polls showed with many Israelis holding him responsible for failing to stop the October 7 attacks by Hamas which killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians. More than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel retaliated in the Gaza Strip. Israelis critical of Netanyahu said his decision-making has been tainted by political considerations, a charge he denies. The criticism is particularly focussed on plans for postwar Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

US VP Kamala Harris to meet Israeli war cabinet member Gantz, who was rebuked by Netanyahu

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Tesla German factory halts operations after electricity pylon damage, suspected arson in factory

Experts globally have often urged the world to be prepared for the next pandemic, with public health agencies and governments saying that they are always readying their response for the next infectious disease emergency.&nbsp;

But they&nbsp;asked how the world can prepare&nbsp;for something that is truly unknown.&nbsp;Hence, the concept of Disease X was introduced.&nbsp;

World Health Organization (WHO) added the name Disease X&nbsp;to a shortlist of high-priority diseases to symbolise a hypothetical, unknown virus that may create a future pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/babies-born-during-covid-19-pandemic-show-fascinating-biological-alterations-says-study-696470">Babies born during COVID-19 pandemic show ‘fascinating’ biological alterations, says study</a>&nbsp;

The term Disease X was coined in 2017 and refers to a hypothetical, newly discovered pathogen or any recognised pathogen with new pandemic potential. According to the latter description, the coronavirus (COVID-19) was the first Disease X. But there could be another in the future.&nbsp;

In a way, there's no need to worry for now.&nbsp;

But in a recent fact-check&nbsp;by the news agency AFP, it was reported how Disease X has been at the centre of misinformation that American conspiracy theorists are amplifying. They are also profiting from it.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/surgeons-cognitive-strain-in-operation-theaters-analysed-in-study-heres-what-study-found-696031">Surgeons' cognitive strain in operation theaters analysed in study. Here's what it showed</a>&nbsp;

Fact-checkers have revealed falsehoods such as the claim that the undiscovered illness is part of an aristocratic scheme to depopulate the world. It appears that such claims begin in the United States but spread to Asia in numerous regional languages.&nbsp;

According to experts, the misinformation is fast-spreading and it shows the perils of reduced content moderation on social media sites.&nbsp;

They said that it also threatened to fuel vaccine hesitancy and jeopardise preparation for public health emergencies four years after the outbreak of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Some experts claimed that several conspiracy theorists&nbsp;are selling so-called emergency kits as they are telling the users in a sponsored message to be prepared. A message read, "Don't be caught unprepared," leading readers to a link to order the kits.&nbsp;

"Spreading conspiracy theories in order to make money is a grift long established on the right," Julie Millican, vice president of the left-leaning watchdog Media Matters, told AFP.

"The ones most likely to be spreading conspiracy theories" about topics such as Disease X, she added, "are also looking for a way to take advantage of their audience to profit from it."

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | How Covid hits your brain long after infection

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The fact-check report said that a section of influencers in the US are stoking fears about Disease X. They are also cashing in on the falsehoods by hawking medical kits which contain what health experts call an unproven Covid treatment.

"Misinformation mongers are trying to exploit this conspiracy theory to sell products," Timothy Caulfield, from the University of Alberta in Canada, told AFP.

"This is often their primary mode of income. The conflict is profound. Without the evidence-free fearmongering about vaccines and government conspiracies, they'd have little or no income," Caulfield added.&nbsp;

The conspiracy theories particularly took off after the World Economic Forum - a magnet for misinformation -&nbsp;convened a "Preparing for&nbsp;Disease&nbsp;X" panel in January focused on a possible future pandemic.&nbsp;

The AFP claimed that&nbsp;Alex Jones, who is the founder of the website InfoWars, has made millions spreading conspiracy theories about mass shootings and Covid. Without providing evidence, Jones apparently falsely claimed on social media that there was a globalist plan to deploy&nbsp;Disease&nbsp;X&nbsp;as a "genocidal kill weapon".

Similar information also spread to China as posts shared on TikTok and&nbsp;X claimed the Chinese government was rolling out mobile cremation ovens to cope with "mass deaths".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Experts globally have often urged the world to be prepared for the next pandemic, with public health agencies and governments saying that they are always readying their response for the next infectious disease emergency.

Experts globally have often urged the world to be prepared for the next pandemic, with public health agencies and governments saying that they are always readying their response for the next infectious disease emergency. But they asked how the world can prepare for something that is truly unknown. Hence, the concept of Disease X was introduced. World Health Organization (WHO) added the name Disease X to a shortlist of high-priority diseases to symbolise a hypothetical, unknown virus that may create a future pandemic. Also read: Babies born during COVID-19 pandemic show ‘fascinating’ biological alterations, says study The term Disease X was coined in 2017 and refers to a hypothetical, newly discovered pathogen or any recognised pathogen with new pandemic potential. According to the latter description, the coronavirus (COVID-19) was the first Disease X. But there could be another in the future. In a way, there's no need to worry for now. But in a recent fact-check by the news agency AFP, it was reported how Disease X has been at the centre of misinformation that American conspiracy theorists are amplifying. They are also profiting from it. Also read: Surgeons' cognitive strain in operation theaters analysed in study. Here's what it showed Fact-checkers have revealed falsehoods such as the claim that the undiscovered illness is part of an aristocratic scheme to depopulate the world. It appears that such claims begin in the United States but spread to Asia in numerous regional languages. According to experts, the misinformation is fast-spreading and it shows the perils of reduced content moderation on social media sites. They said that it also threatened to fuel vaccine hesitancy and jeopardise preparation for public health emergencies four years after the outbreak of COVID-19. Some experts claimed that several conspiracy theorists are selling so-called emergency kits as they are telling the users in a sponsored message to be prepared. A message read, "Don't be caught unprepared," leading readers to a link to order the kits. "Spreading conspiracy theories in order to make money is a grift long established on the right," Julie Millican, vice president of the left-leaning watchdog Media Matters, told AFP. "The ones most likely to be spreading conspiracy theories" about topics such as Disease X, she added, "are also looking for a way to take advantage of their audience to profit from it." Watch: Gravitas | How Covid hits your brain long after infection × The fact-check report said that a section of influencers in the US are stoking fears about Disease X. They are also cashing in on the falsehoods by hawking medical kits which contain what health experts call an unproven Covid treatment. "Misinformation mongers are trying to exploit this conspiracy theory to sell products," Timothy Caulfield, from the University of Alberta in Canada, told AFP. "This is often their primary mode of income. The conflict is profound. Without the evidence-free fearmongering about vaccines and government conspiracies, they'd have little or no income," Caulfield added. The conspiracy theories particularly took off after the World Economic Forum - a magnet for misinformation - convened a "Preparing for Disease X" panel in January focused on a possible future pandemic. The AFP claimed that Alex Jones, who is the founder of the website InfoWars, has made millions spreading conspiracy theories about mass shootings and Covid. Without providing evidence, Jones apparently falsely claimed on social media that there was a globalist plan to deploy Disease X as a "genocidal kill weapon". Similar information also spread to China as posts shared on TikTok and X claimed the Chinese government was rolling out mobile cremation ovens to cope with "mass deaths". (With inputs from agencies)

What is Disease X? How conspiracy theorists are making money from its misinformation

The former president Donald Trump has dominated the Republican campaign from the start and on Tuesday, voters in 15 states and one US territory chose candidates for president. Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia – will cast their ballots in the Republican presidential primary. Meanwhile, all those states except Alaska will hold their Democratic primary contests on Tuesday as well. 

Super Tuesday: Voters cast their ballots as Donald Trump aims to trounce Nikki Haley

Former top executives of Twitter, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, have sued Elon Musk, claiming he owes them nearly $130 million after taking over the social media company which he renamed X.

The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court on Monday, accuses Musk of using "his wealth and power to run roughshod over anyone who disagrees with him".

"Musk doesn't pay his bills, believes the rules don't apply to him," it states, as quoted by AFP.

<h2>The top executives suing Musk</h2>

Former CEO Parag Agrawal, who is seeking $57.4 million in benefits, former CFO Ned Segal, who is asking for $44.5 million along with former chief legal officer Vijaya Gadde and the company's then General Counsel Sean Edgett, are behind this lawsuit.

Musk fired Agrawal, Gadde, and Segal from their positions in late October 2022 after his contentious $44 billion takeover of Twitter. The lawsuit, citing a recent biography, claims that Musk ensured the executives could not resign from the company before he fired them in the immediate aftermath of the takeover.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/googles-ai-model-gemini-faces-shut-down-calls-after-refusing-to-answer-whether-musk-or-hitler-is-worse-693924">'Who is worse? Musk or Hitler?' Google's AI model Gemini faces shutdown calls for refusing to answer question</a>

The executives claim that they were denied severance pay and that they are owed one year's salary and hundreds of thousands of stock options.

"Because Musk decided he didn't want to pay plaintiffs' severance benefits, he simply fired them without reason, then made up (a) fake cause and appointed employees of his various companies to uphold his decision."

"This is the Musk playbook: to keep the money he owes other people, and force them to sue him," they state in the 39-page lawsuit.&nbsp;

They also allege that their efforts to "appropriately and vigorously" represent the interests of Twitter's public shareholders during Musk's attempt to back out of the deal led to Musk vowing revenge against them.&nbsp;

"For their efforts, Musk vowed a lifetime of revenge," says the lawsuit.

<h2>X's troubles</h2>

In a separate case, Agrawal, Gadde, and Segal are suing Musk to be reimbursed for the costs of litigation, investigations, and congressional inquiries related to their former roles at Twitter.

In addition, X faces two proposed class actions demanding severance payments of at least $500 million for laid-off workers after Musk's acquisition, and a third lawsuit from six former senior managers making similar claims. X has denied wrongdoing.

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Previously, the social media giant faced lawsuits for not paying its former PR firm, landlords, vendors, and consultants.

Musk, who describes himself as a "free speech absolutist," promised to remove restrictions on Twitter after acquiring the platform. Following the takeover, Twitter was renamed X, and its staff numbers were significantly reduced, with content moderation being de-prioritised and many previously banned accounts being reinstated. Subsequently, many advertisers have left the platform.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former top executives of Twitter, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, have sued Elon Musk, claiming he owes them nearly $130 million after taking over the social media company which he renamed X.

Former top executives of Twitter, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, have sued Elon Musk, claiming he owes them nearly $130 million after taking over the social media company which he renamed X. The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court on Monday, accuses Musk of using "his wealth and power to run roughshod over anyone who disagrees with him". "Musk doesn't pay his bills, believes the rules don't apply to him," it states, as quoted by AFP. The top executives suing Musk Former CEO Parag Agrawal, who is seeking $57.4 million in benefits, former CFO Ned Segal, who is asking for $44.5 million along with former chief legal officer Vijaya Gadde and the company's then General Counsel Sean Edgett, are behind this lawsuit. Musk fired Agrawal, Gadde, and Segal from their positions in late October 2022 after his contentious $44 billion takeover of Twitter. The lawsuit, citing a recent biography, claims that Musk ensured the executives could not resign from the company before he fired them in the immediate aftermath of the takeover. Also read | 'Who is worse? Musk or Hitler?' Google's AI model Gemini faces shutdown calls for refusing to answer question The executives claim that they were denied severance pay and that they are owed one year's salary and hundreds of thousands of stock options. "Because Musk decided he didn't want to pay plaintiffs' severance benefits, he simply fired them without reason, then made up (a) fake cause and appointed employees of his various companies to uphold his decision." "This is the Musk playbook: to keep the money he owes other people, and force them to sue him," they state in the 39-page lawsuit. They also allege that their efforts to "appropriately and vigorously" represent the interests of Twitter's public shareholders during Musk's attempt to back out of the deal led to Musk vowing revenge against them. "For their efforts, Musk vowed a lifetime of revenge," says the lawsuit. X's troubles In a separate case, Agrawal, Gadde, and Segal are suing Musk to be reimbursed for the costs of litigation, investigations, and congressional inquiries related to their former roles at Twitter. In addition, X faces two proposed class actions demanding severance payments of at least $500 million for laid-off workers after Musk's acquisition, and a third lawsuit from six former senior managers making similar claims. X has denied wrongdoing. Also read | Tesla ordered 4,000 pies before cancelling, Musk forced to take care of bill Previously, the social media giant faced lawsuits for not paying its former PR firm, landlords, vendors, and consultants. Musk, who describes himself as a "free speech absolutist," promised to remove restrictions on Twitter after acquiring the platform. Following the takeover, Twitter was renamed X, and its staff numbers were significantly reduced, with content moderation being de-prioritised and many previously banned accounts being reinstated. Subsequently, many advertisers have left the platform. (With inputs from agencies)

Doesn't pay his bills: Ex-Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal, other former execs sue Musk over $130mn unpaid benefits

A single-engine plane crashed near an interstate highway in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday (March 4), claiming the lives of all five individuals on board, according to authorities.

The incident unfolded when the pilot initiated an emergency call to John C. Tune Airport at approximately 7:40 pm, citing engine troubles.

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Subsequently, the pilot received clearance for an emergency landing. However, shortly thereafter, the pilot communicated that the aircraft would not reach the designated airport.

In an audio recording made public by the streaming network LiveATC.net, the pilot initially reported, "My engine shut down." When asked if he intended to land at Johnson, someone from the control center inquired. The pilot reiterated the engine failure and expressed uncertainty about his location, stating, "I'm going to be... I don't know where."

Despite initially sighting the airport runway, the pilot later conveyed, "I'm too far away. Won't make it."

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Around 7:30 pm, Tennessee Highway Patrol reported "a single-engine aircraft that's fully engulfed," and a local resident shared a video on social media depicting the burning wreckage along the highway shoulder.

The plane ignited upon crashing into a grassy median near Interstate 40, just behind a Costco on the city's west side, approximately 3 miles south of the general aviation airport. Tragically, all five occupants on board perished, as confirmed by the police on social media.

Metro Fire Department Public Information Officer Kendra Loney assured that although there were scattered pieces of wreckage at the scene, emergency crews swiftly cleared and secured the area, ensuring the safety of passing drivers. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among motorists on the interstate, and there was no damage to vehicles or structures on the ground.

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Authorities are currently working to determine the flight's origin, and investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are underway to comprehend the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

A single-engine plane crashed near an interstate highway in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday (March 4), claiming the lives of all five individuals on board, according to authorities.

A single-engine plane crashed near an interstate highway in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday (March 4), claiming the lives of all five individuals on board, according to authorities. The incident unfolded when the pilot initiated an emergency call to John C. Tune Airport at approximately 7:40 pm, citing engine troubles. Also read: Nepal plane crash: Deadliest plane crash in 30 years Subsequently, the pilot received clearance for an emergency landing. However, shortly thereafter, the pilot communicated that the aircraft would not reach the designated airport. In an audio recording made public by the streaming network LiveATC.net, the pilot initially reported, "My engine shut down." When asked if he intended to land at Johnson, someone from the control center inquired. The pilot reiterated the engine failure and expressed uncertainty about his location, stating, "I'm going to be... I don't know where." Despite initially sighting the airport runway, the pilot later conveyed, "I'm too far away. Won't make it." Also read: Hollywood actor Christian Oliver dies in tragic plane crash Around 7:30 pm, Tennessee Highway Patrol reported "a single-engine aircraft that's fully engulfed," and a local resident shared a video on social media depicting the burning wreckage along the highway shoulder. The plane ignited upon crashing into a grassy median near Interstate 40, just behind a Costco on the city's west side, approximately 3 miles south of the general aviation airport. Tragically, all five occupants on board perished, as confirmed by the police on social media. Metro Fire Department Public Information Officer Kendra Loney assured that although there were scattered pieces of wreckage at the scene, emergency crews swiftly cleared and secured the area, ensuring the safety of passing drivers. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among motorists on the interstate, and there was no damage to vehicles or structures on the ground. Also read: Investigators find flight recorders present inside Russian plane crash Authorities are currently working to determine the flight's origin, and investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are underway to comprehend the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Fatal crash: 5 Canadians killed as small plane goes down, say Nashville police

China-Taiwan tensions continue to mount China isn't hiding its intentions it claims to self-rule Taiwan as its territory. This time the Chinese Premier has even adopted a harder stance against Taiwan. Our next report gets you the complete story.

Israel-Hamas War: Famine looms over besieged Gaza strip

Submarine internet cables have been “cut” in the Red Sea, causing “significant” disruption to communications networks in the Middle East, said Hong Kong telecoms company HGC Global Communications. Cables belonging to four major operators have been cut, which might impact internet traffic in India, Pakistan, and parts of East Africa as well. HGC Global claims at least 25 per cent of the traffic has been impacted and operators were now rerouting traffic to keep disruptions to a minimum and “extending assistance to affected businesses".

The company said it was “extremely rare” to have four cables damaged simultaneously.

It must be noted that there are more than 15 submarine internet cables in the Red Sea, a region witnessing massive shipping disruption due to attacks by Yemen-based Houthi rebels in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.

<h2>Cause of the cuts</h2>

None of the operators have yet disclosed the reason behind the cuts. Yemen also denied its role in the suspected sabotage, saying it was “keen to keep all telecom submarine cables…away from any possible risks.”

However, the West-backed Yemeni government in previous weeks had warned that Houthi rebels might seek to disrupt these cables to show support for Hamas and force the world to press Israel to stop attacks in Gaza.

Yemeni rebel leader Abdel Malek al-Houthi denied the allegations. “We have no intention of targeting sea cables providing internet to countries in the region,” he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Italy's FM: China trade deal failed to meet Italian expectation

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Houthis on the other hand have accused British and US military units operating there of being behind the suspected sabotage.

<h2>When are repairs expected?</h2>

CNN quoted South Africa-based Seacom, which owns one of the cable systems affected, as saying that the repair work won’t start for at least another month, as it needed to secure permits to operate in the sea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjM_Nu2ndyEAxULp1YBHa9VBSAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/iran-election-turnout-around-40-per-cent-says-unofficial-reports-695831" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/iran-election-turnout-around-40-per-cent-says-unofficial-reports-695831&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjM_Nu2ndyEAxULp1YBHa9VBSAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Iran election turnout around 40 per cent, says unofficial reports</a>

Meanwhile, the continued security crisis in the Red Sea might also induce further delay in the repair work.

Underwater cables serve as the backbone of the internet, often financed in recent years by tech titans like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, the parent company of Facebook. Disruptions to these subsea networks can lead to extensive internet blackouts, as seen in the aftermath of the Taiwan earthquake in 2006.

(With inputs from agencies)

Submarine internet cables have been “cut” in the Red Sea, causing “significant” disruption to communications networks in the Middle East, said Hong Kong telecoms company HGC Global Communications.

Submarine internet cables have been “cut” in the Red Sea, causing “significant” disruption to communications networks in the Middle East, said Hong Kong telecoms company HGC Global Communications. Cables belonging to four major operators have been cut, which might impact internet traffic in India, Pakistan, and parts of East Africa as well. HGC Global claims at least 25 per cent of the traffic has been impacted and operators were now rerouting traffic to keep disruptions to a minimum and “extending assistance to affected businesses". The company said it was “extremely rare” to have four cables damaged simultaneously. It must be noted that there are more than 15 submarine internet cables in the Red Sea, a region witnessing massive shipping disruption due to attacks by Yemen-based Houthi rebels in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. Cause of the cuts None of the operators have yet disclosed the reason behind the cuts. Yemen also denied its role in the suspected sabotage, saying it was “keen to keep all telecom submarine cables…away from any possible risks.” However, the West-backed Yemeni government in previous weeks had warned that Houthi rebels might seek to disrupt these cables to show support for Hamas and force the world to press Israel to stop attacks in Gaza. Yemeni rebel leader Abdel Malek al-Houthi denied the allegations. “We have no intention of targeting sea cables providing internet to countries in the region,” he said. Watch: Italy's FM: China trade deal failed to meet Italian expectation × Houthis on the other hand have accused British and US military units operating there of being behind the suspected sabotage. When are repairs expected? CNN quoted South Africa-based Seacom, which owns one of the cable systems affected, as saying that the repair work won’t start for at least another month, as it needed to secure permits to operate in the sea. Also read: Iran election turnout around 40 per cent, says unofficial reports Meanwhile, the continued security crisis in the Red Sea might also induce further delay in the repair work. Underwater cables serve as the backbone of the internet, often financed in recent years by tech titans like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, the parent company of Facebook. Disruptions to these subsea networks can lead to extensive internet blackouts, as seen in the aftermath of the Taiwan earthquake in 2006. (With inputs from agencies)

At least four submarine internet cables ‘cut’ in Red Sea, Houthis deny role

United States (US) presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 4) called for immunity for any US president after he won the Colorado ballot disqualification case at the US Supreme Court.

United States (US) presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Monday (Mar 4) called for immunity for any US president after he won the Colorado ballot disqualification case at the US Supreme Court. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court overturned a judicial decision that had excluded Trump from Colorado's ballot under a constitutional provision involving insurrection for inciting and supporting the 2021 Capitol Hill riots. The justices unanimously reversed a December 19 decision by Colorado's top court to kick Trump off the state's Republican primary ballot on Tuesday after finding that the Constitution's 14th Amendment disqualified him from again holding public office. The ruling was issued on the eve of Super Tuesday, the day in the US presidential primary cycle when most states hold party nominating contests. Trump hails SC ruling in Colorado case Addressing the media, Trump hailed the Supreme Court's ruling. "I want to start by thanking the Supreme Court for its unanimous decision today. It was a very important decision, were very well crafted, and I think it will go a long way toward bringing our country together, which our country needs," Trump said from Mar-a-Lago. Also read | US presidential polls 2024: Supreme Court allows Trump to remain on Colorado ballot "Essentially, you cannot take somebody out of a race because an opponent would like to have it that way. And it has nothing to do with the fact that it's the leading candidate, whether it was the leading candidate or a candidate that was well down on the totem pole. You cannot take somebody out of a race," he added. "The voters can take the person out of the race very quickly. But a court shouldn't be doing that. And the Supreme Court saw that very well," the 77-year-old Republican added. 'If a president doesn't have full immunity...' "While most states were thrilled to have me, there were some that did not and they did not want that because of political reasons, they did not want that because of poll numbers. We are beating President Biden in almost every poll," he further said. Calling for immunity for a US president, Trump, the 45th president, said, "If a president doesn't have full immunity, you really don't have a president because nobody that is serving in that office will have the courage to make in many cases the right decision or it could be in some cases the wrong decision. But, they have to make decisions and they have to make them free of all terror that can be reigned upon them when they leave office or even before they leave office." Also read | Ex-Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg pleads guilty to perjury in NY civil fraud case Hitting out at Joe Biden, Trump said that the president should not use "prosecutors and judges to go after your opponent to try and damage your opponent so you can win an election." (With inputs from agencies)

After winning Colorado ballot disqualification case, Trump calls for immunity for all US presidents

China on Monday (March 4) inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

The move comes weeks after President Mohamed Muizzu set a deadline for the departure of the first contingent of Indian military personnel from his country.

The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle.

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Minister of Defence <a href="https://twitter.com/mgmaumoon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mgmaumoon</a> and Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of the People's Republic of China, signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering… <a href="https://t.co/OeaAe2QZr9">pic.twitter.com/OeaAe2QZr9</a>
— Ministry of Defence (@MoDmv) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoDmv/status/1764658022616625502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

However, the details of the defence cooperation agreement were not provided.

Meanwhile, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives, reported Edition.mv news portal on Monday.

It said that on Sunday (March 3), Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin presented the letter gifting the ambulances to the Maldives in a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health.

The visit of the Chinese military delegation also comes days after Male permitted Xiang Yang Hong 03, a hi-tech Chinese ship owned by a research institute that reports to Beijing's natural resources ministry, to make a port call for the "rotation of its personnel and replenishment."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-research-ship-arrives-in-maldives-sparks-security-concerns-among-indian-authorities-692663">Chinese 'research' ship arrives in Maldives triggering security concerns in Indian Ocean</a>

<h2>Research done 'exclusively'&nbsp;for peaceful purposes, claims China</h2>

China's foreign ministry has repeatedly claimed that the "research" done by the vessel was "exclusively" for peaceful purposes to benefit scientific understanding.

The ministry spokesperson also previously defended the port call by the ship to the Maldives saying, "China's scientific research activities in relevant waters are for peaceful purposes and aimed at contributing to humanity's scientific understanding of the ocean."&nbsp;

According to news agency Reuters report, an Indian security official previously said that the vessels were "dual-use", which means that they collect data which can be used for both civilian as well as military purposes.

Before Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign research ships, effectively denying China a port of call, a Chinese research vessel docked in the island nation for the very last time in October 2023.

<h2>First team of technical personnel reaches Maldives</h2>

The visit by a Chinese military delegation to the island nation also comes after India confirmed that its first civilian team of technical experts had reached the Maldives and will replace the military personnel operating an advanced light helicopter in the country.

"The first team of technical personnel to operate the advanced light helicopter has reached the Maldives. It will replace the existing personnel who were operating this platform," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in New Delhi at his weekly media briefing on February 29.

After the meetings of the high-level core group, the Maldivian foreign ministry announced that India would replace all of its military personnel by May 10 in two phases.

President Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China leader, has set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military troops from his country.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Monday (March 4) inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

China on Monday (March 4) inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties. The move comes weeks after President Mohamed Muizzu set a deadline for the departure of the first contingent of Indian military personnel from his country. The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations. Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle. Minister of Defence @mgmaumoon and Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of the People's Republic of China, signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering… pic.twitter.com/OeaAe2QZr9 — Ministry of Defence (@MoDmv) March 4, 2024 × However, the details of the defence cooperation agreement were not provided. Meanwhile, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives, reported Edition.mv news portal on Monday. It said that on Sunday (March 3), Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin presented the letter gifting the ambulances to the Maldives in a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health. The visit of the Chinese military delegation also comes days after Male permitted Xiang Yang Hong 03, a hi-tech Chinese ship owned by a research institute that reports to Beijing's natural resources ministry, to make a port call for the "rotation of its personnel and replenishment." Also read: Chinese 'research' ship arrives in Maldives triggering security concerns in Indian Ocean Research done 'exclusively' for peaceful purposes, claims China China's foreign ministry has repeatedly claimed that the "research" done by the vessel was "exclusively" for peaceful purposes to benefit scientific understanding. The ministry spokesperson also previously defended the port call by the ship to the Maldives saying, "China's scientific research activities in relevant waters are for peaceful purposes and aimed at contributing to humanity's scientific understanding of the ocean." According to news agency Reuters report, an Indian security official previously said that the vessels were "dual-use", which means that they collect data which can be used for both civilian as well as military purposes. Before Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign research ships, effectively denying China a port of call, a Chinese research vessel docked in the island nation for the very last time in October 2023. First team of technical personnel reaches Maldives The visit by a Chinese military delegation to the island nation also comes after India confirmed that its first civilian team of technical experts had reached the Maldives and will replace the military personnel operating an advanced light helicopter in the country. "The first team of technical personnel to operate the advanced light helicopter has reached the Maldives. It will replace the existing personnel who were operating this platform," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in New Delhi at his weekly media briefing on February 29. After the meetings of the high-level core group, the Maldivian foreign ministry announced that India would replace all of its military personnel by May 10 in two phases. President Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China leader, has set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military troops from his country. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives to get free military assistance from China, inks agreement to promote 'stronger' bilateral ties

A UN team has found evidence of sexual violence during the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas in Israel.&nbsp;The team conducted a mission in Israel from January 29 to February 14 to gather, analyse and verify information, and investigate allegations of sexual violence during the October 7 attacks. In an extremely rare event, at least four submarine internet cables were cut in the Red Sea.&nbsp;Cables belonging to four major operators have been cut, which might impact internet traffic in India, Pakistan, and parts of East Africa as well. Meanwhile, the island nation of Taiwan has&nbsp;issued an apology to Indians after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-finds-credible-evidence-of-sexual-violence-including-gang-rapes-during-in-hamas-attack-on-israel-696611">UN finds 'credible' evidence of sexual violence including gang rapes, during Hamas attack on Israel</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/05/416200-new-wion-8.jpg?imwidth=400" />

A United Nations team of experts, led by special envoy Pramila Patten, on Monday, reported that there were "reasonable grounds to believe" sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred during the Oct&nbsp;7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-issues-sincere-apology-over-ministers-racist-comments-against-indian-migrant-workers-696618">Taiwan issues 'sincere apology' over minister's racist comments against Indian migrant workers</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/16/412603-untitled-design-2024-02-16t212031071.png?imwidth=400" />

Taiwan's Ministry of Labour issued an apology after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-submarine-internet-cables-cut-in-red-sea-houthis-deny-role-696642">At least four submarine internet cables ‘cut’ in Red Sea, Houthis deny role</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/05/416219-submarine-cables-scaled.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Submarine internet cables may have been “cut” in the Red Sea, causing “significant” disruption to communications networks in the Middle East, said Hong Kong telecoms company HGC Global Communications.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doesnt-pay-his-bills-former-twitter-executives-sue-elon-musk-for-withholding-130mn-in-unpaid-benefits-696613">'Doesn't pay his bills': Former Twitter executives sue Elon Musk for withholding $130mn in unpaid benefits</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/05/416201-new-wion-9.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Former top executives of Twitter, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, have sued Elon Musk, claiming he owes them nearly $130 million after taking over the social media company which he renamed X.

Super Tuesday: Everything you need to know

Super Tuesday, on March 5, 2024, is when the largest number of states will be holding presidential primaries or caucuses. Over a third of all the available delegates for both the Republican and Democratic nominations are at stake on Super Tuesday.

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&nbsp;

A UN team has found evidence of sexual violence during the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas in Israel. The team conducted a mission in Israel from January 29 to February 14 to gather, analyse and verify information, and investigate allegations of sexual violence during the October 7 attacks.

A UN team has found evidence of sexual violence during the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas in Israel. The team conducted a mission in Israel from January 29 to February 14 to gather, analyse and verify information, and investigate allegations of sexual violence during the October 7 attacks. In an extremely rare event, at least four submarine internet cables were cut in the Red Sea. Cables belonging to four major operators have been cut, which might impact internet traffic in India, Pakistan, and parts of East Africa as well. Meanwhile, the island nation of Taiwan has issued an apology to Indians after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion. Click on the headlines to read more. UN finds 'credible' evidence of sexual violence including gang rapes, during Hamas attack on Israel A United Nations team of experts, led by special envoy Pramila Patten, on Monday, reported that there were "reasonable grounds to believe" sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel. Taiwan issues 'sincere apology' over minister's racist comments against Indian migrant workers Taiwan's Ministry of Labour issued an apology after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion. At least four submarine internet cables ‘cut’ in Red Sea, Houthis deny role Submarine internet cables may have been “cut” in the Red Sea, causing “significant” disruption to communications networks in the Middle East, said Hong Kong telecoms company HGC Global Communications. 'Doesn't pay his bills': Former Twitter executives sue Elon Musk for withholding $130mn in unpaid benefits Former top executives of Twitter, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, have sued Elon Musk, claiming he owes them nearly $130 million after taking over the social media company which he renamed X. Super Tuesday: Everything you need to know Super Tuesday, on March 5, 2024, is when the largest number of states will be holding presidential primaries or caucuses. Over a third of all the available delegates for both the Republican and Democratic nominations are at stake on Super Tuesday. ×

Morning news brief: Sexual violence 'occurred' during Oct 7 attacks; Internet cables 'cut' in Red Sea; & more

Super Tuesday, on March 5, 2024, is when the largest number of states will be holding presidential primaries or caucuses. Over a third of all the available delegates for both the Republican and Democratic nominations are at stake on Super Tuesday.

Super Tuesday: Everything you need to know

The Balkan nation of Albania on Monday (Mar 4) unveiled a refurbished airbase to be used by the NATO alliance, a move expected to irk Moscow.

The airbase is located in an Albanian city formerly named after Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. The base once housed dozens of Soviet- and Chinese-made planes left for years to rust in the open air.

The new NATO airbase in ‘Stalin city’ doesn’t only show Albania’s shift towards the West but also highlights NATO’s expanding footprints in southeast Europe as tensions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine rattle the region.

<h2>Kucova transforms into a NATO-backed facility</h2>

While inaugurating the base, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama stressed that the importance of the base "extended beyond Albania's borders".

Italian Eurofighters and US F-16s and F-35s staged a flyover before landing on the new runaway during the event attended by NATO representatives and diplomats.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Combat drone training for Ukrainian children in schools

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The work had been going on for more than two years in the city called Kucova, which has now transformed into a NATO-backed facility. NATO representative Lieutenant General Juan Pablo Sanchez de Lara said, "The inauguration of Kucova air base demonstrates that the Alliance -- with a 360-degree approach -- is heavily engaged in this relevant region."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjWg5_BmNyEAxV3XWwGHai7A0YQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-responsibility-for-railway-bridge-blast-in-southwest-russia-696496" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-responsibility-for-railway-bridge-blast-in-southwest-russia-696496&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjWg5_BmNyEAxV3XWwGHai7A0YQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia</a>

Ironically, the construction of the base started in early 2022, just ahead of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Kucova is now set to operate as a tactical operational base, featuring an updated control tower and a refurbished runway spanning over two kilometres (1.2 miles). Additionally, the base will accommodate modern military aircraft and offer facilities for refuelling and ammunition storage

<h2>Albania’s shift towards the West</h2>

In 2009, Albania ended decades of global isolation by joining NATO. During the reign of the paranoid Communist dictator Enver Hoxha, the country had close ties with the Soviet Union and China until differences arose over their interpretation of Marxism. Following the collapse of the communist regime in 1990, Albania shifted towards the West.

The establishment of the new air base is likely to provoke Moscow, which staunchly opposes NATO expansion into Eastern and Central Europe, particularly in the Balkans, a region historically caught between Eastern and Western influences.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Balkan nation of Albania on Monday (Mar 4) unveiled a refurbished airbase to be used by the NATO alliance, a move expected to irk Moscow. The airbase is located in an Albanian city formerly named after Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin.

The Balkan nation of Albania on Monday (Mar 4) unveiled a refurbished airbase to be used by the NATO alliance, a move expected to irk Moscow. The airbase is located in an Albanian city formerly named after Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. The base once housed dozens of Soviet- and Chinese-made planes left for years to rust in the open air. The new NATO airbase in ‘Stalin city’ doesn’t only show Albania’s shift towards the West but also highlights NATO’s expanding footprints in southeast Europe as tensions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine rattle the region. Kucova transforms into a NATO-backed facility While inaugurating the base, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama stressed that the importance of the base "extended beyond Albania's borders". Italian Eurofighters and US F-16s and F-35s staged a flyover before landing on the new runaway during the event attended by NATO representatives and diplomats. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Combat drone training for Ukrainian children in schools × The work had been going on for more than two years in the city called Kucova, which has now transformed into a NATO-backed facility. NATO representative Lieutenant General Juan Pablo Sanchez de Lara said, "The inauguration of Kucova air base demonstrates that the Alliance -- with a 360-degree approach -- is heavily engaged in this relevant region." Also read: Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia Ironically, the construction of the base started in early 2022, just ahead of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Kucova is now set to operate as a tactical operational base, featuring an updated control tower and a refurbished runway spanning over two kilometres (1.2 miles). Additionally, the base will accommodate modern military aircraft and offer facilities for refuelling and ammunition storage Albania’s shift towards the West In 2009, Albania ended decades of global isolation by joining NATO. During the reign of the paranoid Communist dictator Enver Hoxha, the country had close ties with the Soviet Union and China until differences arose over their interpretation of Marxism. Following the collapse of the communist regime in 1990, Albania shifted towards the West. The establishment of the new air base is likely to provoke Moscow, which staunchly opposes NATO expansion into Eastern and Central Europe, particularly in the Balkans, a region historically caught between Eastern and Western influences. (With inputs from agencies)

Albania unveils refurbished NATO airbase in ‘Stalin city’, move likely to irk Moscow

Ghana’s parliament, on Wednesday (Feb 28), passed a controversial bill to severely restrict LGBTQ rights in the country a week after it rejected a proposal to water down some of its measures including non-custodial sentences such as counselling for gay sex instead of jail terms.

Ghana’s parliament passes bill to expand crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights

It is one of 2024's most consequential days for US politics. A day that has been dubbed as super Tuesday, and rightly so. It is the deciding lap in the race for both parties' presidential nominations. The Super Tuesday polling is underway, and millions of Americans are casting their votes in 16 states & one territory.

Super Tuesday 2024: Can Nikki Haley's campaign gain any traction?

EU negotiators on Monday (March 4) reached an agreement to ban the use of single-use plastics in cafes and restaurants, starting in 2030. This decision was taken as part of new regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc.

<h2>The single-use plastic ban</h2>

The European Union's 27 nations and lawmakers have agreed on a draft text which includes a target to reduce packaging waste by five per cent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. This reduction will further be increased to 10 per cent by 2035 and 15 per cent by 2040.

Unprocessed fresh fruits and vegetables, individual servings of condiments and sugar, as well as miniature toiletries and shrink-wrap used for suitcases in airports will also fall under the ban on single-use plastic packaging. Additionally, ultra-lightweight plastic bags will also be banned, with some exceptions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-earth-critters-may-be-colonising-the-moon-all-thanks-to-a-2019-crash-heres-all-you-need-to-know-696342">These Earth critters may be colonising the moon, all thanks to a 2019 crash. Here's all you need to know</a>

The agreement also calls for establishments offering beverages and takeaway food to strive to provide 10 per cent of their products in reusable packaging by 2030.&nbsp;

Consumers should also have the option to use their own containers, said the EU parliament.

Additionally, lawmakers included a provision to ban "forever chemicals" in food packaging that come into contact with food to prevent adverse health effects, including various types of cancer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-silent-warning-microplastics-is-found-in-every-human-placenta-a-new-study-reveals-693332">A silent warning? Microplastics found in every human placenta, reveals new study</a>

The agreement, as per AFP, is a key element of the EU's environmental objectives outlined in the Green Deal, a series of regulations designed to help the bloc achieve its climate targets.

The agreement will become law following formal approval by member states and the parliament.

<h2>Belgium lauds the agreement&nbsp;</h2>

Belgium, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, took to X to announce: "This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards."

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🥡 Deal! <a href="https://twitter.com/EUCouncil?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EUCouncil</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Europarl_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Europarl_EN</a> reach a provisional agreement on a proposal for a regulation on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/packaging?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#packaging</a> &amp; packaging waste. 
 
This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards. <a href="https://t.co/9yDA0ujeTS">pic.twitter.com/9yDA0ujeTS</a>
— Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU 2024 (@EU2024BE) <a href="https://twitter.com/EU2024BE/status/1764715924966216185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Frederique Ries, the Belgian EU lawmaker who championed the legislation, lauded the ban and said: "The ban on forever chemicals in food packaging is a great victory for the health of European consumers."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shocking-great-white-shark-washes-up-on-australian-beach-heres-what-happened-next-696454">‘Shocking’: Great white shark washes up on Australian beach</a>

"For the first time in an environmental law, the EU is setting targets to reduce packaging consumption, regardless of the material used."

"We call on all industrial sectors, EU countries and consumers to play their part in the fight against excess packaging," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

EU negotiators on Monday (March 4) reached an agreement to ban the use of single-use plastics in cafes and restaurants, starting in 2030. This decision was taken as part of new regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc.

EU negotiators on Monday (March 4) reached an agreement to ban the use of single-use plastics in cafes and restaurants, starting in 2030. This decision was taken as part of new regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc. The single-use plastic ban The European Union's 27 nations and lawmakers have agreed on a draft text which includes a target to reduce packaging waste by five per cent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. This reduction will further be increased to 10 per cent by 2035 and 15 per cent by 2040. Unprocessed fresh fruits and vegetables, individual servings of condiments and sugar, as well as miniature toiletries and shrink-wrap used for suitcases in airports will also fall under the ban on single-use plastic packaging. Additionally, ultra-lightweight plastic bags will also be banned, with some exceptions. Also read | These Earth critters may be colonising the moon, all thanks to a 2019 crash. Here's all you need to know The agreement also calls for establishments offering beverages and takeaway food to strive to provide 10 per cent of their products in reusable packaging by 2030. Consumers should also have the option to use their own containers, said the EU parliament. Additionally, lawmakers included a provision to ban "forever chemicals" in food packaging that come into contact with food to prevent adverse health effects, including various types of cancer. Also read | A silent warning? Microplastics found in every human placenta, reveals new study The agreement, as per AFP, is a key element of the EU's environmental objectives outlined in the Green Deal, a series of regulations designed to help the bloc achieve its climate targets. The agreement will become law following formal approval by member states and the parliament. Belgium lauds the agreement Belgium, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, took to X to announce: "This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards." 🥡 Deal! @EUCouncil & @Europarl_EN reach a provisional agreement on a proposal for a regulation on #packaging & packaging waste. This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards. pic.twitter.com/9yDA0ujeTS — Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU 2024 (@EU2024BE) March 4, 2024 × Frederique Ries, the Belgian EU lawmaker who championed the legislation, lauded the ban and said: "The ban on forever chemicals in food packaging is a great victory for the health of European consumers." Also read | ‘Shocking’: Great white shark washes up on Australian beach "For the first time in an environmental law, the EU is setting targets to reduce packaging consumption, regardless of the material used." "We call on all industrial sectors, EU countries and consumers to play their part in the fight against excess packaging," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to ban single-use plastic in cafes and restaurants by 2030

India-Taiwan ties: Taiwan's Ministry of Labour issued an apology after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion.

On February 29, Taiwan's Minister of Labour, Hsu Ming-chun, while discussing the newly signed labour mobility agreement with India, said that workers from India's northeastern states were considered suitable for the initial phase of the execution of the mobility agreement due to perceived similarities in skin colour, dietary preferences, and religion.

Although the interview was published on March 1, the controversial comments gained attention on social media over the weekend.&nbsp;

Responding to the public backlash, Taiwan's foreign ministry issued an official statement on March 4 and apologised for the comments made by the self-ruled island nation's labour minister.&nbsp;

"Recently in discussions with relevant sectors in Taiwan's society, certain government agencies have made remarks that were not entirely appropriate," the ministry said.&nbsp;

"The government expresses sincere apologies over this situation. It will earnestly review its actions and made needed improvements going forward."

There was no official reaction from India's Ministry of External Affairs over the controversy.&nbsp;

This row follows the signing of a labour mobility agreement between Taiwan and India, designed to address Taiwan's severe human power shortage by importing Indian workers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-taiwan-elections-2024-beyond-xi-jinpings-unification-threat-679049">Explained: How Taiwan is keeping up with democracy amid Xi Jinping's 'reunification' threat</a>

India and Taiwan recently signed a migration and mobility pact to strengthen ties between the two sides.&nbsp;

The landmark agreement is aimed at fostering greater people-to-people engagement and facilitating smoother migration between the two nations.

The semiconductor industry has emerged as a pivotal area of cooperation, with the establishment of a chip manufacturing plant in western India's Gujarat state emerging as a high point of the ties between the two sides.&nbsp;

While India officially adheres to the One China policy, it has not reiterated the same in recent years amid deteriorating ties with China. The troops of the two sides have been engaged in a standoff in the Himalayas since April 2020.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India-Taiwan ties: Taiwan's Ministry of Labour issued an apology after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion.

India-Taiwan ties: Taiwan's Ministry of Labour issued an apology after controversial remarks surfaced over the recruitment of Indian workers based on "skin colour", dietary habits, and religion. On February 29, Taiwan's Minister of Labour, Hsu Ming-chun, while discussing the newly signed labour mobility agreement with India, said that workers from India's northeastern states were considered suitable for the initial phase of the execution of the mobility agreement due to perceived similarities in skin colour, dietary preferences, and religion. Although the interview was published on March 1, the controversial comments gained attention on social media over the weekend. Responding to the public backlash, Taiwan's foreign ministry issued an official statement on March 4 and apologised for the comments made by the self-ruled island nation's labour minister. "Recently in discussions with relevant sectors in Taiwan's society, certain government agencies have made remarks that were not entirely appropriate," the ministry said. "The government expresses sincere apologies over this situation. It will earnestly review its actions and made needed improvements going forward." There was no official reaction from India's Ministry of External Affairs over the controversy. This row follows the signing of a labour mobility agreement between Taiwan and India, designed to address Taiwan's severe human power shortage by importing Indian workers. Also read | Explained: How Taiwan is keeping up with democracy amid Xi Jinping's 'reunification' threat India and Taiwan recently signed a migration and mobility pact to strengthen ties between the two sides. The landmark agreement is aimed at fostering greater people-to-people engagement and facilitating smoother migration between the two nations. The semiconductor industry has emerged as a pivotal area of cooperation, with the establishment of a chip manufacturing plant in western India's Gujarat state emerging as a high point of the ties between the two sides. While India officially adheres to the One China policy, it has not reiterated the same in recent years amid deteriorating ties with China. The troops of the two sides have been engaged in a standoff in the Himalayas since April 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan issues 'sincere apology' over minister's racist comments against Indian migrant workers

Billionaire businessman Elon Musk on Tuesday (Mar 5) slammed the Biden administration for "importing voters and creating a national security threat". Musk's remarks came on "Super Tuesday" — the biggest day of primaries in the presidential election cycle.&nbsp;

Taking to his official X account, Musk shared a news article done by Daily Mail which reports details of the Biden administration's acknowledgement of flying migrants into the United States. The headline of the report read - "Biden administration admits flying 320,000 migrants secretly into the US to reduce the number of crossing at the border has national security 'vulnerabilities'."&nbsp;

Musk wrote in the caption, "This administration is both importing voters and creating a national security threat from unvetted illegal immigrants. It is highly probable that the groundwork is being laid for something far worse than 9/11. Just a matter of time."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-again-gets-toppled-from-worlds-richest-person-title-heres-who-has-replaced-him-this-time-696743">Elon Musk is again toppled as world's richest person. Here's who has replaced him this time</a>&nbsp;

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This administration is both importing voters and creating a national security threat from unvetted illegal immigrants. 
 
It is highly probable that the groundwork is being laid for something far worse than 9/11. Just a matter of time. <a href="https://t.co/kuilPxAvv3">pic.twitter.com/kuilPxAvv3</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1764885292199063590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Immigration has become one of the major issues for the 2024 election with US President Joe Biden and likely Republican challenger Donald Trump walking the US-Mexico border in Texas on February 29. Their recent trips have highlighted that both parties want to use it to their advantage in their own way.&nbsp;

Trump continued his attacks on migrants arriving at the border, calling them "terrorists" and criminals. He said, "This is a Joe Biden invasion."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Biden told the officials, "I want the American people to know what we're trying to get done. We can't afford not to do this."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-plans-all-seeing-surveillance-camera-network-on-moon-to-secure-lunar-base-696804">China plans ‘all-seeing’ surveillance camera network on moon to secure its lunar base</a>&nbsp;

In the past few years, the number of people who are illegally crossing the US border has been rising. Some reports have come up with reasons for such a rise, stating climate change, war and unrest in other nations are contributing to the migration of people.&nbsp;

Government statistics published in January revealed that the US Border Patrol had nearly 250,000 encounters with migrants crossing into the United States from Mexico in December 2023. As per the report, it was the highest monthly total on record, easily eclipsing the previous peak of about 224,000 encounters in May 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)&nbsp;

Billionaire businessman Elon Musk on Tuesday (Mar 5) slammed the Biden administration for "importing voters and creating a national security threat". Musk's remarks came on "Super Tuesday" — the biggest day of primaries in the presidential election cycle.

Billionaire businessman Elon Musk on Tuesday (Mar 5) slammed the Biden administration for "importing voters and creating a national security threat". Musk's remarks came on "Super Tuesday" — the biggest day of primaries in the presidential election cycle. Taking to his official X account, Musk shared a news article done by Daily Mail which reports details of the Biden administration's acknowledgement of flying migrants into the United States. The headline of the report read - "Biden administration admits flying 320,000 migrants secretly into the US to reduce the number of crossing at the border has national security 'vulnerabilities'." Musk wrote in the caption, "This administration is both importing voters and creating a national security threat from unvetted illegal immigrants. It is highly probable that the groundwork is being laid for something far worse than 9/11. Just a matter of time." Also read: Elon Musk is again toppled as world's richest person. Here's who has replaced him this time This administration is both importing voters and creating a national security threat from unvetted illegal immigrants. It is highly probable that the groundwork is being laid for something far worse than 9/11. Just a matter of time. pic.twitter.com/kuilPxAvv3 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 5, 2024 × Immigration has become one of the major issues for the 2024 election with US President Joe Biden and likely Republican challenger Donald Trump walking the US-Mexico border in Texas on February 29. Their recent trips have highlighted that both parties want to use it to their advantage in their own way. Trump continued his attacks on migrants arriving at the border, calling them "terrorists" and criminals. He said, "This is a Joe Biden invasion." Meanwhile, Biden told the officials, "I want the American people to know what we're trying to get done. We can't afford not to do this." Also read: China plans ‘all-seeing’ surveillance camera network on moon to secure its lunar base In the past few years, the number of people who are illegally crossing the US border has been rising. Some reports have come up with reasons for such a rise, stating climate change, war and unrest in other nations are contributing to the migration of people. Government statistics published in January revealed that the US Border Patrol had nearly 250,000 encounters with migrants crossing into the United States from Mexico in December 2023. As per the report, it was the highest monthly total on record, easily eclipsing the previous peak of about 224,000 encounters in May 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk slams Biden administration over 'importing' migrants for vote bank

The El Nino weather pattern has commenced its weakening phase but is anticipated to continue influencing above-average temperatures worldwide, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday (March 5).

El Nino, a naturally occurring phenomenon linked to disrupted wind patterns resulting in warmer ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, typically occurs every two to seven years.

Lasting approximately nine to 12 months, El Nino often triggers extreme weather events such as wildfires, tropical cyclones, and prolonged droughts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-predicted-to-cause-unprecedented-heat-across-amazon-to-alaska-in-2024-695585">El Nino predicted to cause unprecedented heat across Amazon to Alaska in 2024</a>

WMO spokesperson Claire Nullis stated that El Nino reached its peak in December, ranking among the five strongest occurrences in history. While gradually diminishing, it is expected to impact global climate in the upcoming months, leading to above-normal temperatures from March to May in most land areas.

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo noted that El Nino had played a role in recent temperature records. Since June 2023, every month has set new temperature records, making 2023 the warmest year on record. Saulo emphasised that while El Nino contributed to these elevated temperatures, the primary culprit remains heat-trapping greenhouse gases.

The WMO indicated a 60 per cent likelihood of El Nino persisting from March to May, with an 80 per cent chance of neutral conditions (neither El Nino nor La Nina) from April to June. There is a possibility of La Nina, characterised by unusually cold Pacific Ocean temperatures, emerging later in the year, though the odds remain uncertain, as per the WMO.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-could-make-2024-hotter-than-record-2023-679471" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-could-make-2024-hotter-than-record-2023-679471&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgI6widOEAxUCbmwGHVc_C08QFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0PiSYWruh5MbStD9qCJPoR" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-could-make-2024-hotter-than-record-2023-679471" target="_blank">El Nino&nbsp;could make 2024 hotter than record 2023</a>

According to a analysis made earlier stated, El Nino climate event is anticipated to intensify global warming, leading to record-breaking temperatures spanning from the Amazon to Alaska in 2024.

Scientists also project that coastal regions near the Bay of Bengal, the South China Sea, India, the Philippines and the Caribbean will experience exceptional heat until June, with the potential for El Nino's influence to diminish thereafter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgI6widOEAxUCbmwGHVc_C08QFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2kvqb6zbDfLaKnLTvBDkZe" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603" target="_blank">Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' has been losing ice since 1940s</a>

El Nino, characterised by the release of heat from the western Pacific Ocean, has historically elevated global surface temperatures and played a significant role in making 2023 the hottest year on record by a substantial margin.

(With inputs from agencies)

The El Nino weather pattern has commenced its weakening phase but is anticipated to continue influencing above-average temperatures worldwide, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday (March 5).

The El Nino weather pattern has commenced its weakening phase but is anticipated to continue influencing above-average temperatures worldwide, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday (March 5). El Nino, a naturally occurring phenomenon linked to disrupted wind patterns resulting in warmer ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, typically occurs every two to seven years. Lasting approximately nine to 12 months, El Nino often triggers extreme weather events such as wildfires, tropical cyclones, and prolonged droughts. Also read: El Nino predicted to cause unprecedented heat across Amazon to Alaska in 2024 WMO spokesperson Claire Nullis stated that El Nino reached its peak in December, ranking among the five strongest occurrences in history. While gradually diminishing, it is expected to impact global climate in the upcoming months, leading to above-normal temperatures from March to May in most land areas. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo noted that El Nino had played a role in recent temperature records. Since June 2023, every month has set new temperature records, making 2023 the warmest year on record. Saulo emphasised that while El Nino contributed to these elevated temperatures, the primary culprit remains heat-trapping greenhouse gases. The WMO indicated a 60 per cent likelihood of El Nino persisting from March to May, with an 80 per cent chance of neutral conditions (neither El Nino nor La Nina) from April to June. There is a possibility of La Nina, characterised by unusually cold Pacific Ocean temperatures, emerging later in the year, though the odds remain uncertain, as per the WMO. Also read: El Nino could make 2024 hotter than record 2023 According to a analysis made earlier stated, El Nino climate event is anticipated to intensify global warming, leading to record-breaking temperatures spanning from the Amazon to Alaska in 2024. Scientists also project that coastal regions near the Bay of Bengal, the South China Sea, India, the Philippines and the Caribbean will experience exceptional heat until June, with the potential for El Nino's influence to diminish thereafter. Also read: Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' has been losing ice since 1940s El Nino, characterised by the release of heat from the western Pacific Ocean, has historically elevated global surface temperatures and played a significant role in making 2023 the hottest year on record by a substantial margin. (With inputs from agencies)

El Nino weakens but will sustain elevated temperatures: UN weather agency

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