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Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest

Taiwan on Tuesday drove away a Chinese coast guard boat that entered waters near its sensitive frontline islands, in a rise in tensions a day after China's coast guard boarded a Taiwanese tourist boat that a Taiwan minister said has triggered "panic".

Chinese coast guard boat driven away by Taiwan as tensions rise

<p>The search for 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, who had gone missing, ended in tragedy as her dead body&nbsp;was discovered on Tuesday afternoon (Feb&nbsp;20). Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons confirmed the&nbsp;discovery, stating that her body&nbsp;were found in the Trinity River near the US Highway 59 bridge in Livingston.</p>

<p>Sheriff Lyons expressed the commitment of law enforcement to pursue justice for Audrii. He emphasised the ongoing efforts to gather and process evidence to ensure that those responsible for her untimely death are held accountable.</p>

<p>"We will continue to process the evidence that has been gathered to ensure that there is justice for Audrii," Lyons said.</p>

<p>Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sittom disclosed that her office is in the process of preparing arrest warrants for Don Steven McDougal, 42, in connection with Audrii's disappearance. McDougal, who had been identified as a person of interest, is facing the possibility of capital murder charges.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-brave-navalny-should-not-have-returned-to-russia-692141">Also read |&nbsp;Trump says 'brave' Navalny should not have returned to Russia</a></p>

<h2><strong>Connection to Audrii</strong></h2>

<p>Reports indicate that McDougal was a friend of Audrii's father and resided in a trailer behind their residence. He was known to occasionally escort Audrii to school, raising concerns about his potential involvement in her disappearance.</p>

<p>McDougal's past includes prior charges dating back to the early 2000s, including allegations of enticing a child and assault. His recent arrest on unrelated charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon has elevated suspicions surrounding his role in Audrii's case.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;America's Elite: Are you in the global 1 per cent households?</strong></p>

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<p>An Amber alert was issued by the Polk County Sheriff's Office on February 16&nbsp;following Audrii's disappearance. She was last seen near her residence, prompting a widespread search effort. Authorities highlighted the discovery of a red 'Hello Kitty' backpack near Lake Livingston Dam, possibly belonging to Audrii, as a significant lead in the investigation.</p>

<p>Despite McDougal's status as a person of interest, Sheriff Lyons cautioned against premature conclusions, urging the public to refrain from speculation as the investigation progresses. The tragic loss of Audrii Cunningham has cast a shadow over the community, underscoring the need for swift and thorough justice.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The search for 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, who had gone missing, ended in tragedy as her dead body was discovered on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 20). Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons confirmed the discovery, stating that her body were found in the Trinity River near the US Highway 59 bridge in Livingston.

The search for 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, who had gone missing, ended in tragedy as her dead body was discovered on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 20). Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons confirmed the discovery, stating that her body were found in the Trinity River near the US Highway 59 bridge in Livingston. Sheriff Lyons expressed the commitment of law enforcement to pursue justice for Audrii. He emphasised the ongoing efforts to gather and process evidence to ensure that those responsible for her untimely death are held accountable. "We will continue to process the evidence that has been gathered to ensure that there is justice for Audrii," Lyons said. Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sittom disclosed that her office is in the process of preparing arrest warrants for Don Steven McDougal, 42, in connection with Audrii's disappearance. McDougal, who had been identified as a person of interest, is facing the possibility of capital murder charges. Also read | Trump says 'brave' Navalny should not have returned to Russia Connection to Audrii Reports indicate that McDougal was a friend of Audrii's father and resided in a trailer behind their residence. He was known to occasionally escort Audrii to school, raising concerns about his potential involvement in her disappearance. McDougal's past includes prior charges dating back to the early 2000s, including allegations of enticing a child and assault. His recent arrest on unrelated charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon has elevated suspicions surrounding his role in Audrii's case. Also watch | America's Elite: Are you in the global 1 per cent households? An Amber alert was issued by the Polk County Sheriff's Office on February 16 following Audrii's disappearance. She was last seen near her residence, prompting a widespread search effort. Authorities highlighted the discovery of a red 'Hello Kitty' backpack near Lake Livingston Dam, possibly belonging to Audrii, as a significant lead in the investigation. Despite McDougal's status as a person of interest, Sheriff Lyons cautioned against premature conclusions, urging the public to refrain from speculation as the investigation progresses. The tragic loss of Audrii Cunningham has cast a shadow over the community, underscoring the need for swift and thorough justice. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Missing 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham found dead near Trinity river in Texas

In a major embarrassment to the UK Royal Navy, a Trident nuclear missile misfired and crashed into the ocean near the submarine that launched it, last month. The test firing was conducted off the coast of Florida and it was the second consecutive time a Trident nuclear missile had failed.

Big embarrassment: Alarm over UK's dying navy

After days of negotiations, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have come to an agreement to establish a new coalition government in Pakistan.

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Pakistan: Shehbaz Sharif set to become Pakistan PM as PML-N and PPP forge coalition pact

<p>A former FBI informant, who has been charged with lying regarding the dealings of US President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden in Ukraine, has told investigators that Russian intelligence officials had passed on that information to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The claims were made by the informant after his arrest, said the prosecutors in a new court filing on Tuesday (Feb 20), noting that the information was false.</p>

<p>Prosecutors also claimed that Alexander Smirnov has been “actively peddling new lies that could impact US elections” after he met with Russian spies late last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smirnov has said that he has “extensive and extremely recent” contacts with foreign intelligence officials, said the prosecutors in the filing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FBI officials said that he had claimed earlier about having longstanding and extensive contacts with Russian spies, which include individuals he said were command Russian assassins abroad or high-level intelligence officers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-asks-campaign-aides-to-focus-on-crazy-s-that-trump-says-report-692167">Biden asks campaign aides to focus on ‘crazy s*** that Trump says': Report</a></p>

<p>In the court filing, the federal prosecutors said that Alexander Smirnov accepted that he was arrested by "officials associated with Russian intelligence who were involved in passing a story" regarding President Biden's son, Hunter Biden.</p>

<h2><strong>FBI informant creates&nbsp;false and fictitious record of Bidens</strong></h2>

<p>Smirnov, who was an FBI informant, was arrested last week and has been facing charges of making false statements as well as for creating a false and fictitious record.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Feb 20), he appeared in a federal court in Nevada for his detention hearing and the arguments from both sides were heard by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts, who then ordered that Smirnov be released on a personal recognizance bond.</p>

<p>The ruling was against the government which had appealed for the custody of Smirnov in the court.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death</strong></p>

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<p>The prosecutors, in their detention memo, emphasised what they said were four "indisputable facts" which favoured his detention.</p>

<p>Smirnov, they said, "claims to have contacts with multiple foreign intelligence agencies". He was, as per his previous plans, gearing up to&nbsp;leave&nbsp;the country just&nbsp;two days after the day he was arrested&nbsp;to hold meetings with Russian intelligence officials, among others.</p>

<p>Prosecutors said that if the informant flees from the United States now, his foreign intelligence contacts can resettle him.</p>

<p>Prosecutors claimed that 43-year-old Smirnov has access to $6 million in "liquid funds," which was not disclosed to Pretrial Services.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A former FBI informant, who has been charged with lying regarding the dealings of US President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden in Ukraine, has told investigators that Russian intelligence officials had passed on that information to him.

A former FBI informant, who has been charged with lying regarding the dealings of US President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden in Ukraine, has told investigators that Russian intelligence officials had passed on that information to him. The claims were made by the informant after his arrest, said the prosecutors in a new court filing on Tuesday (Feb 20), noting that the information was false. Prosecutors also claimed that Alexander Smirnov has been “actively peddling new lies that could impact US elections” after he met with Russian spies late last year. Smirnov has said that he has “extensive and extremely recent” contacts with foreign intelligence officials, said the prosecutors in the filing. FBI officials said that he had claimed earlier about having longstanding and extensive contacts with Russian spies, which include individuals he said were command Russian assassins abroad or high-level intelligence officers. Also Read: Biden asks campaign aides to focus on ‘crazy s*** that Trump says': Report In the court filing, the federal prosecutors said that Alexander Smirnov accepted that he was arrested by "officials associated with Russian intelligence who were involved in passing a story" regarding President Biden's son, Hunter Biden. FBI informant creates false and fictitious record of Bidens Smirnov, who was an FBI informant, was arrested last week and has been facing charges of making false statements as well as for creating a false and fictitious record. On Tuesday (Feb 20), he appeared in a federal court in Nevada for his detention hearing and the arguments from both sides were heard by Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts, who then ordered that Smirnov be released on a personal recognizance bond. The ruling was against the government which had appealed for the custody of Smirnov in the court. Watch: Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death The prosecutors, in their detention memo, emphasised what they said were four "indisputable facts" which favoured his detention. Smirnov, they said, "claims to have contacts with multiple foreign intelligence agencies". He was, as per his previous plans, gearing up to leave the country just two days after the day he was arrested to hold meetings with Russian intelligence officials, among others. Prosecutors said that if the informant flees from the United States now, his foreign intelligence contacts can resettle him. Prosecutors claimed that 43-year-old Smirnov has access to $6 million in "liquid funds," which was not disclosed to Pretrial Services. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian intelligence passed on 'lies' about the Bidens, FBI informant claims

<p>In a comprehensive survey conducted by political scientists Justin Vaughn and Brandon Rottinghaus, 154 scholars, predominantly affiliated with the American Political Science Association, were tasked with evaluating the greatness of all US presidents, from George Washington to Joe Biden. This survey aimed to provide a thorough ranking of presidential greatness, a task previously undertaken by Vaughn and Rottinghaus in 2015 and 2018.</p>

<p>Respondents were asked to assign a rating to each president on a scale of 0 to 100, representing their overall greatness. A score of 0 indicated failure, 50 represented an average rating, and 100 signified greatness. The average score for each president was then calculated, resulting in a comprehensive ranking from highest to lowest.</p>

<p>The top positions in the ranking remained relatively stable compared to previous surveys. Abraham Lincoln retained the first position for his remarkable leadership during the Civil War and his pivotal role in abolishing slavery. Franklin Delano Roosevelt and George Washington,&nbsp;recognised for their significant contributions during times of national crisis, closely followed.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-brave-navalny-should-not-have-returned-to-russia-692141">Also read |&nbsp;Trump says 'brave' Navalny should not have returned to Russia</a></p>

<h2><strong>Impact of racial justice movements</strong></h2>

<p>A noteworthy aspect of the survey was the observed shifts in rankings for presidents associated with racial injustice. Andrew Jackson and Woodrow Wilson, previously ranked higher, experienced downward trends due to reevaluations of their treatment of marginalised groups.</p>

<p>Barack Obama, the first Black president in US history, saw a notable rise in his ranking, ascending nine places to seventh. This elevation reflects his historic presidency in consecutive terms.</p>

<p>Ulysses S Grant witnessed an improvement in his ranking, attributed to his efforts in protecting the rights of freed slaves despite facing corruption allegations during his presidency.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;American woman arrested for treason in Russia</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Comparison with Trump</strong></h2>

<p>In stark contrast, Donald Trump ranked at the bottom of the list, even behind presidents who failed to prevent or heal the Civil War. His tumultuous tenure, marked by a contentious post-election period and numerous legal challenges, contributed to his low standing in the survey.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a comprehensive survey conducted by political scientists Justin Vaughn and Brandon Rottinghaus, 154 scholars, predominantly affiliated with the American Political Science Association, were tasked with evaluating the greatness of all US presidents, from George Washington to Joe Biden.

In a comprehensive survey conducted by political scientists Justin Vaughn and Brandon Rottinghaus, 154 scholars, predominantly affiliated with the American Political Science Association, were tasked with evaluating the greatness of all US presidents, from George Washington to Joe Biden. This survey aimed to provide a thorough ranking of presidential greatness, a task previously undertaken by Vaughn and Rottinghaus in 2015 and 2018. Respondents were asked to assign a rating to each president on a scale of 0 to 100, representing their overall greatness. A score of 0 indicated failure, 50 represented an average rating, and 100 signified greatness. The average score for each president was then calculated, resulting in a comprehensive ranking from highest to lowest. The top positions in the ranking remained relatively stable compared to previous surveys. Abraham Lincoln retained the first position for his remarkable leadership during the Civil War and his pivotal role in abolishing slavery. Franklin Delano Roosevelt and George Washington, recognised for their significant contributions during times of national crisis, closely followed. Also read | Trump says 'brave' Navalny should not have returned to Russia Impact of racial justice movements A noteworthy aspect of the survey was the observed shifts in rankings for presidents associated with racial injustice. Andrew Jackson and Woodrow Wilson, previously ranked higher, experienced downward trends due to reevaluations of their treatment of marginalised groups. Barack Obama, the first Black president in US history, saw a notable rise in his ranking, ascending nine places to seventh. This elevation reflects his historic presidency in consecutive terms. Ulysses S Grant witnessed an improvement in his ranking, attributed to his efforts in protecting the rights of freed slaves despite facing corruption allegations during his presidency. Also watch | American woman arrested for treason in Russia Comparison with Trump In stark contrast, Donald Trump ranked at the bottom of the list, even behind presidents who failed to prevent or heal the Civil War. His tumultuous tenure, marked by a contentious post-election period and numerous legal challenges, contributed to his low standing in the survey. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump way down at bottom as worst president ever, Biden lands at 14 in new survey ahead of US elections

<p>The Alabama Supreme Court&nbsp;has ruled that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them, in what is being described as a&nbsp;first-of-its-kind decision in the US. The court was hearing cases brought by three couples who had their frozen embryos destroyed in an accident at a fertility clinic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Justice Jay Mitchell at the all-Republican court, citing&nbsp;anti-abortion language from the Alabama Constitution, ruled that an 1872 law allowed parents to sue over the death of a minor child which also applied to "unborn children".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Unborn children are ‘children" without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics,” wrote Justice&nbsp;Mitchell in the verdict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the case about?</strong></h2>

<p>According to court documents, the plaintiffs in case had undergone IVF treatments that led to the creation of several embryos, some of which were implanted and resulted in healthy births.</p>

<p>The couples had then decided to keep other embryos frozen in a storage facility at the Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. However, in 2020, a patient wandered into the area where the embryos were stored and attempted to remove them. In the process, he dropped them on the floor and "killed" them, according to the ruling.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-pentagons-efforts-to-aid-abortion-in-focus-625802"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Texas supreme court overUS: Pentagon's efforts to aid abortion in focus</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Implications of the verdict&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The decision by the Alabama SC could have serious implications for people seeking&nbsp;in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technology treatments.</p>

<p>Previously, the freezing of embryos was considered property by the courts.&nbsp;However, the fresh verdict could increase the criminalisation of expectant people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kate-cox-a-texas-woman-forced-to-leave-state-for-emergency-abortion-668704"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Texas supreme court overturns ruling on pregnant woman seeking abortion after she leaves state</strong></a></p>

<p>The court decision&nbsp;comes ahead of the 2024 presidential elections and could further divide the two sides on the sensitive topic. While the Republican side believes that personhood begins at fertilisation, the Democrats, who are in the pro-choice bloc, believe that a fertilised egg is nothing but a clump of cells.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Up until now, at least 11 states have broadly defines personhood as beginning at the fertilisation process.</p>

<p>More states, especially the conservative strongholds, are also expected to further clearly define personhood, buoyed by the decision of Alabama SC, experts argue.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them, in what is being described as a first-of-its-kind decision in the US.

The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them, in what is being described as a first-of-its-kind decision in the US. The court was hearing cases brought by three couples who had their frozen embryos destroyed in an accident at a fertility clinic. Justice Jay Mitchell at the all-Republican court, citing anti-abortion language from the Alabama Constitution, ruled that an 1872 law allowed parents to sue over the death of a minor child which also applied to "unborn children". “Unborn children are ‘children" without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics,” wrote Justice Mitchell in the verdict. "The Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location," he added. What is the case about? According to court documents, the plaintiffs in case had undergone IVF treatments that led to the creation of several embryos, some of which were implanted and resulted in healthy births. The couples had then decided to keep other embryos frozen in a storage facility at the Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. However, in 2020, a patient wandered into the area where the embryos were stored and attempted to remove them. In the process, he dropped them on the floor and "killed" them, according to the ruling. Watch | Texas supreme court overUS: Pentagon's efforts to aid abortion in focus × Implications of the verdict The decision by the Alabama SC could have serious implications for people seeking in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technology treatments. Previously, the freezing of embryos was considered property by the courts. However, the fresh verdict could increase the criminalisation of expectant people. Also read | Texas supreme court overturns ruling on pregnant woman seeking abortion after she leaves state The court decision comes ahead of the 2024 presidential elections and could further divide the two sides on the sensitive topic. While the Republican side believes that personhood begins at fertilisation, the Democrats, who are in the pro-choice bloc, believe that a fertilised egg is nothing but a clump of cells. Up until now, at least 11 states have broadly defines personhood as beginning at the fertilisation process. More states, especially the conservative strongholds, are also expected to further clearly define personhood, buoyed by the decision of Alabama SC, experts argue. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children'

Ameen Sayani, the famous voice behind the popular "Binaca Geet Mala" programme, has died at the age of 91, his son Rajil Sayani said today.

Ameen Sayani, iconic radio host and golden voice of 'Geetmala', dies at 91

The former FBI informant charged with fabricating claims about a bribery scheme involving Joe Biden, his son Hunter and a Ukrainian energy company has "extensive" contacts with Russian intelligence agencies, according to the Justice Department.

Ex-FBI source accused of Biden lies 'linked to Russian intelligence'

<p>In a major embarrassment to the UK Royal Navy, a Trident nuclear missile misfired and crashed into the ocean near the submarine that launched it, last month. The test firing&nbsp;was conducted off&nbsp;the coast of Florida and it was the second consecutive time a Trident nuclear missile had failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Feb 20), the Ministry of Defence seemingly confirmed the failed test&nbsp;saying an "anomaly" occurred during the firing of the&nbsp;'Trident 2' ballistic missile.</p>

<p>Notably, Defence Secretary&nbsp;Grant Shapps and&nbsp;First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key were on board HMS Vanguard when the nuclear missile failed to get going.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the crew responsible for the launch in the nuclear sub completed the doomsday drill perfectly before the Trident 2 missile&nbsp;was propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch tube. However, its first-stage boosters failed to ignite and the 58-tonne missile – fitted with dummy warheads – splashed into the ocean and sank.</p>

<p>According to a source, quoted as saying by <em>The Sun</em>, the missile left the submarine but "just went plop", right next to the vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-nukes-to-return-to-uk-evidence-suggests-process-underway-632762"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US nukes to return to UK? Evidence suggests process underway</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Statement by the government</strong></h2>

<p>The MoD looked at the silver lining after the failure and said "we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tory ministers are expected to make a statement about what happened during the launch to the House of Commons on Wednesday (Feb 21).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, it is the second time that a Trident missile launch has failed after a similar misfire was reported during the 2016 test. At the time, HMS Vengeance was used to fire the missile but moments after the launch, the Trident missile veered off course and automatically self-destructed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usas-new-intel-report-warns-of-russian-nuclear-capabilities-in-space-690379"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Satellite killer': Russia's name was not supposed to be revealed, but somebody leaked it</strong></a></p>

<p>Afterwards, the then-Theresa May government was accused of covering up the failed launch as parliament was due to vote on renewing the UK’s nuclear deterrent.</p>

<p>The failure of the missile launch comes at a time when a recent report stated that UK armed forces were overstretched and that in a peer-to-peer conflict, they would exhaust their capabilities in a "couple of months".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major embarrassment to the UK Royal Navy, a Trident nuclear missile misfired and crashed into the ocean near the submarine that launched it, last month. The test firing was conducted off the coast of Florida and it was the second consecutive time a Trident nuclear missile had failed. On Tuesday (Feb 20), the Ministry of Defence seemingly confirmed the failed test saying an "anomaly" occurred during the firing of the 'Trident 2' ballistic missile. Notably, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key were on board HMS Vanguard when the nuclear missile failed to get going. According to reports, the crew responsible for the launch in the nuclear sub completed the doomsday drill perfectly before the Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch tube. However, its first-stage boosters failed to ignite and the 58-tonne missile – fitted with dummy warheads – splashed into the ocean and sank. According to a source, quoted as saying by The Sun, the missile left the submarine but "just went plop", right next to the vessel. Watch | US nukes to return to UK? Evidence suggests process underway × Statement by the government The MoD looked at the silver lining after the failure and said "we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile". The Tory ministers are expected to make a statement about what happened during the launch to the House of Commons on Wednesday (Feb 21). Notably, it is the second time that a Trident missile launch has failed after a similar misfire was reported during the 2016 test. At the time, HMS Vengeance was used to fire the missile but moments after the launch, the Trident missile veered off course and automatically self-destructed. Also read | 'Satellite killer': Russia's name was not supposed to be revealed, but somebody leaked it Afterwards, the then-Theresa May government was accused of covering up the failed launch as parliament was due to vote on renewing the UK’s nuclear deterrent. The failure of the missile launch comes at a time when a recent report stated that UK armed forces were overstretched and that in a peer-to-peer conflict, they would exhaust their capabilities in a "couple of months". (With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Trident nuclear missile test fails for the second time in a row

<p>The east-bound commercial planes found themselves moving at&nbsp;supersonic speeds because of record-breaking wind which flew over the mid-Atlantic region this weekend.</p>

<p>According to the US National Weather Service, a Virgin Atlantic passenger plane - which was travelling from Washington to London - was pushed at a speed of nearly 1300kph (800mph), which is faster than the speed of sound, as per the US National Weather Service.</p>

<p>“This evening’s weather balloon launch detected the 2nd strongest upper-level wind recorded in local history going back to the mid-20th century,” stated the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington, in the post on its official X account.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-man-steals-plane-crashes-it-near-texas-oklahoma-border-and-dies-684121">US: Man steals plane, crashes it near Texas-Oklahoma border and dies</a></p>

<p>“Around 34,000-35,000ft, winds peaked around 230 knots (265mph!). For those flying eastbound in this jet, there will be quite a tailwind,” said the weather service.</p>

<p>Two other passenger planes, which included one from New Jersey’s Newark Airport to Lisbon, Portugal, flew at a speed of 835mph.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This evening's weather balloon launch detected the 2nd strongest upper-level wind recorded in local history going back to the mid 20th century! Around 34,000-35,000 ft, winds peaked around 230 kt (265 mph!). For those flying eastbound in this jet, there will be quite a tail wind. <a href="https://t.co/0MXK0HvsCV">pic.twitter.com/0MXK0HvsCV</a></p>
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWS_BaltWash/status/1759033450110349722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Atlantic jet stream caused the sudden change&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Even though the planes flew at speeds higher than that of sound, their sound barrier did not break as they were not travelling faster than sound relative to the air which had wrapped them in the jet stream.</p>

<p>The fast and narrow current of air which flows from west to east and encircles the globe is called the Atlantic jet stream and is generally used by aeroplanes which travel east from North America to cut down on their travel duration and use of fuel.</p>

<p>The current usually has winds which travel at speeds close to 110mph (177 kph), however, it is known to intensify sometimes, especially in winter months.</p>

<p>So far, there have been no reports of passengers facing difficulties when they were aboard these eastbound flights.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-mountains-682031/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Wow! 265mph jet stream wind last night over parts of the east coast! Great for flight if it’s at your tail. Not so great, otherwise!” said meteorologist Lisa Green on X.</p>

<p>The latest research has also suggested that climate change has been disrupting the flow of air currents in the atmosphere.</p>

<p>The freak wind speeds were caused by warmer air in the south and super-cold temperatures in the Northeast, reported The Washington Post citing experts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The east-bound commercial planes found themselves moving at supersonic speeds because of record-breaking wind which flew over the mid-Atlantic region this weekend.

The east-bound commercial planes found themselves moving at supersonic speeds because of record-breaking wind which flew over the mid-Atlantic region this weekend. According to the US National Weather Service, a Virgin Atlantic passenger plane - which was travelling from Washington to London - was pushed at a speed of nearly 1300kph (800mph), which is faster than the speed of sound, as per the US National Weather Service. “This evening’s weather balloon launch detected the 2nd strongest upper-level wind recorded in local history going back to the mid-20th century,” stated the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington, in the post on its official X account. Also Read: US: Man steals plane, crashes it near Texas-Oklahoma border and dies “Around 34,000-35,000ft, winds peaked around 230 knots (265mph!). For those flying eastbound in this jet, there will be quite a tailwind,” said the weather service. Two other passenger planes, which included one from New Jersey’s Newark Airport to Lisbon, Portugal, flew at a speed of 835mph. This evening's weather balloon launch detected the 2nd strongest upper-level wind recorded in local history going back to the mid 20th century! Around 34,000-35,000 ft, winds peaked around 230 kt (265 mph!). For those flying eastbound in this jet, there will be quite a tail wind. pic.twitter.com/0MXK0HvsCV — NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) February 18, 2024 × Atlantic jet stream caused the sudden change Even though the planes flew at speeds higher than that of sound, their sound barrier did not break as they were not travelling faster than sound relative to the air which had wrapped them in the jet stream. The fast and narrow current of air which flows from west to east and encircles the globe is called the Atlantic jet stream and is generally used by aeroplanes which travel east from North America to cut down on their travel duration and use of fuel. The current usually has winds which travel at speeds close to 110mph (177 kph), however, it is known to intensify sometimes, especially in winter months. So far, there have been no reports of passengers facing difficulties when they were aboard these eastbound flights. Watch: Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains “Wow! 265mph jet stream wind last night over parts of the east coast! Great for flight if it’s at your tail. Not so great, otherwise!” said meteorologist Lisa Green on X. The latest research has also suggested that climate change has been disrupting the flow of air currents in the atmosphere. The freak wind speeds were caused by warmer air in the south and super-cold temperatures in the Northeast, reported The Washington Post citing experts. (With inputs from agencies)

Commercial planes go on a wild ride after freak winds propel them to supersonic speeds

<p>The family members of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ardent critic Alexei Navalny, who was found dead in a Russian prison, have been informed that the authorities will not release his body, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said that his mother was informed by the officials that his body is being held for "chemical analysis" and will be handed over to them after two weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian authorities have not yet confirmed the whereabouts of his dead body as efforts are still being made to locate it.</p>

<p>Late Russian opposition leader's wife Yulia Navalnaya has accused the Russian officials of hiding it.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-death-european-nations-summon-russian-diplomats-warn-of-fresh-sanctions-691810">Alexei Navalny death: European nations summon Russian diplomats, warn of fresh sanctio</a>ns</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny’s wife vows to fight for a 'free Russia'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sharing a video on Monday (Feb 19), Alexei Navalny’s wife Yulia Navalnaya vowed to continue his work of fighting for a "free Russia" and accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of killing his critic and her husband.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further alleged that the officials have been keeping his body to ensure that all&nbsp;traces of poisoning by the nerve agent Novichok are removed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Navalnaya's voice shook with grief and anger as she asked the viewers to stand alongside her and "share the fury and hate for those who dared to kill our future".</p>

<p>The death of Navalny in a Russian prison was announced by the authorities on Friday (Feb 16). The Siberian penal colony's authorities said that Navalny did not regain consciousness after he suddenly collapsed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As soon as his death was announced, Navalny's mother and lawyer travelled to the remote colony.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alexei-navalny-death-navalnys-widow-accuses-putin-of-killing-him-and-vows-to-continue-his-work-691813/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The local authorities and prison mortuary have repeatedly pushed back the efforts of the family members to locate the body.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin on Monday (Feb 19) said that an investigation into the death of Navalny was ongoing and that there were "no results" till now.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Nations point&nbsp;finger at Putin over 'Navalny's death'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Western leaders blamed President Putin for Navalny's death. Speaking to reporters on Monday (Feb 19), US President Joe Biden said, "The fact of the matter is: Putin is responsible, whether he ordered it or he is responsible for the circumstances he put that man in."</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference on Monday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that Navalny had been "slowly murdered in a Russian jail by Putin's regime".</p>

<p>The United States and the European Union said that they are considering imposing new sanctions on Russia after Navalny's death.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies</em>)</p>


The family members of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ardent critic Alexei Navalny, who was found dead in a Russian prison, have been informed that the authorities will not release his body, as per reports.

The family members of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ardent critic Alexei Navalny, who was found dead in a Russian prison, have been informed that the authorities will not release his body, as per reports. Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said that his mother was informed by the officials that his body is being held for "chemical analysis" and will be handed over to them after two weeks. Russian authorities have not yet confirmed the whereabouts of his dead body as efforts are still being made to locate it. Late Russian opposition leader's wife Yulia Navalnaya has accused the Russian officials of hiding it. Also Read: Alexei Navalny death: European nations summon Russian diplomats, warn of fresh sanctions Navalny’s wife vows to fight for a 'free Russia' Sharing a video on Monday (Feb 19), Alexei Navalny’s wife Yulia Navalnaya vowed to continue his work of fighting for a "free Russia" and accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of killing his critic and her husband. She further alleged that the officials have been keeping his body to ensure that all traces of poisoning by the nerve agent Novichok are removed. In the video, Navalnaya's voice shook with grief and anger as she asked the viewers to stand alongside her and "share the fury and hate for those who dared to kill our future". The death of Navalny in a Russian prison was announced by the authorities on Friday (Feb 16). The Siberian penal colony's authorities said that Navalny did not regain consciousness after he suddenly collapsed. As soon as his death was announced, Navalny's mother and lawyer travelled to the remote colony. Watch: Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work The local authorities and prison mortuary have repeatedly pushed back the efforts of the family members to locate the body. The Kremlin on Monday (Feb 19) said that an investigation into the death of Navalny was ongoing and that there were "no results" till now. Nations point finger at Putin over 'Navalny's death' Western leaders blamed President Putin for Navalny's death. Speaking to reporters on Monday (Feb 19), US President Joe Biden said, "The fact of the matter is: Putin is responsible, whether he ordered it or he is responsible for the circumstances he put that man in." Speaking at a press conference on Monday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that Navalny had been "slowly murdered in a Russian jail by Putin's regime". The United States and the European Union said that they are considering imposing new sanctions on Russia after Navalny's death. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to hold Alexei Navalny’s body for two weeks, will carry out 'chemical analysis’, family told

Russia is exploiting delays in extending aid to Ukraine, and the situation in areas where Moscow's troops are concentrated is "extremely difficult", Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Russians taking advantage of delays in aid to Ukraine says Zelensky

<p>Australia, on Tuesday (Feb 20) outlined its decade-long plan and announced a major overhaul of the Navy’s surface combatant fleet saying that it would more than double the number of warships as well as add six large and “optionally crewed” naval vessels heavily armed with missiles as a part of the new $11 billion reshaping of the country’s naval forces.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Australia’s plan for its Navy</h2>

<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government announced a major overhaul of the country’s Navy which includes the acquisition of six new large optionally crewed surface vessels (LOSVs) which can be operated remotely by a support vessel and would be heavily armed with missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Australia to double fleet of Warships by 2034</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-to-double-fleet-of-warships-by-2034-691848/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Under the sweeping overhaul, Australia will have 26 combat-ready warships up from the current fleet of 11 ships. “It is the largest fleet that we will have since the end of the Second World War,” said Defence Minister Richard Marles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also&nbsp;cited concerns over rising geopolitical tensions amid&nbsp;competition between the United States, its allies and China&nbsp;in the Asia-Pacific region.</p>

<p>Canberra has also reduced its order of Hunter-class frigates from nine to six, according to the new plan “Enhanced Lethality Surface Combatant Fleet.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new fleet would include three upgraded Hobart-class destroyers, 11 new general-purpose frigates to replace six remaining Anzac-class frigates, six new LOSVs and 25 minor war vessels, including six Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).</p>

<p>The Hunter class frigates will be built at the Osborne shipyard in South Australia, said Australia’s Department of Defence in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement also comes after the government received an independent analysis, led by the retired US&nbsp;Navy Vice-Admiral William Hilarides, which found that the current and planned surface combatant fleet was “not appropriate for the strategic environment we face, noting it is the oldest fleet Navy has operated in its history”.</p>

<p>The independent analysis also urged the Albanese government for “immediate implementation” of the overhaul citing the threat to Australia’s national security.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-ashwin-ramaswami-first-gen-z-indian-american-democrat-vying-for-georgia-senate-seat-691843">Meet Ashwin Ramaswami, first Gen Z Indian-American Democrat vying for Georgia Senate seat</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia’s oldest currently serving warship, HMAS Anzac, as per the plan, will be immediately decommissioned ahead of the gradual replacement of the ageing Anzac-class fleet with new frigates.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Australia increases defence spending</strong></h2>

<p>To implement the shake-up to the current Australian navy fleet, the government has announced an additional $1.7 billion over the forward estimates and $11.1 billion over the next decade in defence for “accelerated delivery” for the navy’s future surface combatant fleet and to expand the country’s shipbuilding industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-expresses-concerns-after-china-targets-its-divers-with-sonar-pulses-659933">Australia expresses concerns after China targets its divers with sonar pulses</a></strong></p>

<p>The total cost of the plan over the next decade would amount to $54 billion. The plan would also see Australia increase its defence spending to 2.4 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP), above the two per cent target set by its NATO allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This will be the largest surface combatant force we’ve operated in generations. It will also be, in time, the most lethal,” said Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Australia, on Tuesday (Feb 20) outlined its decade-long plan and announced a major overhaul of the Navy’s surface combatant fleet saying that it would more than double the number of warships as well as add six large and “optionally crewed” naval vessels heavily armed with missiles as a part of the new $11 billion reshaping of the country’s naval forces.

Australia, on Tuesday (Feb 20) outlined its decade-long plan and announced a major overhaul of the Navy’s surface combatant fleet saying that it would more than double the number of warships as well as add six large and “optionally crewed” naval vessels heavily armed with missiles as a part of the new $11 billion reshaping of the country’s naval forces. Australia’s plan for its Navy Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government announced a major overhaul of the country’s Navy which includes the acquisition of six new large optionally crewed surface vessels (LOSVs) which can be operated remotely by a support vessel and would be heavily armed with missiles. WATCH | Australia to double fleet of Warships by 2034 Under the sweeping overhaul, Australia will have 26 combat-ready warships up from the current fleet of 11 ships. “It is the largest fleet that we will have since the end of the Second World War,” said Defence Minister Richard Marles. He also cited concerns over rising geopolitical tensions amid competition between the United States, its allies and China in the Asia-Pacific region. Canberra has also reduced its order of Hunter-class frigates from nine to six, according to the new plan “Enhanced Lethality Surface Combatant Fleet.” The new fleet would include three upgraded Hobart-class destroyers, 11 new general-purpose frigates to replace six remaining Anzac-class frigates, six new LOSVs and 25 minor war vessels, including six Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). The Hunter class frigates will be built at the Osborne shipyard in South Australia, said Australia’s Department of Defence in a statement. The announcement also comes after the government received an independent analysis, led by the retired US Navy Vice-Admiral William Hilarides, which found that the current and planned surface combatant fleet was “not appropriate for the strategic environment we face, noting it is the oldest fleet Navy has operated in its history”. The independent analysis also urged the Albanese government for “immediate implementation” of the overhaul citing the threat to Australia’s national security. Also Read | Meet Ashwin Ramaswami, first Gen Z Indian-American Democrat vying for Georgia Senate seat Australia’s oldest currently serving warship, HMAS Anzac, as per the plan, will be immediately decommissioned ahead of the gradual replacement of the ageing Anzac-class fleet with new frigates. Australia increases defence spending To implement the shake-up to the current Australian navy fleet, the government has announced an additional $1.7 billion over the forward estimates and $11.1 billion over the next decade in defence for “accelerated delivery” for the navy’s future surface combatant fleet and to expand the country’s shipbuilding industry. Also Read | Australia expresses concerns after China targets its divers with sonar pulses The total cost of the plan over the next decade would amount to $54 billion. The plan would also see Australia increase its defence spending to 2.4 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP), above the two per cent target set by its NATO allies. “This will be the largest surface combatant force we’ve operated in generations. It will also be, in time, the most lethal,” said Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia announces navy overhaul to build biggest fleet since World War II

<p>A judge in Haiti responsible for investigating the July 2021&nbsp;assassination of President Jovenel Moïse&nbsp;indicted his widow, Martine Moïse, ex-prime minister Claude Joseph and the former chief of Haiti’s National Police, Léon Charles, among others, in a report released on Monday.</p>

<p>The indictments are expected to further destabilize Haiti as it struggles with a surge in gang violence and recovers from a spate of violent protests demanding the resignation of current Prime Minister Ariel Henry.</p>

<p>Dozens of suspects were indicted in the 122-page report issued by Walther Wesser Voltaire, who is the fifth judge to lead the investigation after previous ones stepped down for various reasons, including fear of being killed.</p>

<p>Charles, who was police chief when&nbsp;Moïse was killed<a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/haiti-presidential-assassination-mystery-deepens-explained-in-pictures-1827562-2021-07-13" target="_self">&nbsp;</a>and now serves as Haiti’s permanent representative to the Organization of the American States, faces the most serious charges: murder; attempted murder; possession and illegal carrying of weapons; conspiracy against the internal security of the state; and criminal association.</p>

<p><a id="more-section-display-name" name="more-section-display-name"></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Joseph and Martine Moïse, who were injured in the attack, are accused of complicity and criminal association.</p>

<p><iframe allow="attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>Charles could not be immediately reached for comment, and Martine Moïse’s attorney did not return a message for comment.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Joseph, the former prime minister, shared a statement with The Associated Press accusing Henry of “undermining” the investigation and benefitting from the president’s death.</p>

<p>“Henry... is weaponizing the Haitian justice system, prosecuting political opponents like me. It’s a classic coup d’état,” Joseph said. “They failed to kill me and Martine Moïse on July 7th 2021, now they are using the Haitian justice system to advance their Machiavellian agenda.”</p>

<p>Joseph again called on Henry to resign and noted that while he was still prime minister, he invited the FBI to help local authorities investigate the killing and wrote the UN and OAS for help.</p>

<p>“I won’t stop my fight. Justice must be served,” he said.</p>

<p>In his report, the judge noted that the former secretary general of the National Palace, Lyonel Valbrun, told authorities that he received “strong pressure” from Martine Moïse to put the president’s office at the disposal of Joseph because he needed it to “organize a council of ministers.”</p>

<p>Valbrun also said that two days before her husband was killed, Martine Moïse visited the National Palace and spent nearly five hours, from 10 pm to 3 am, removing “a bunch of things.”</p>

<p>He said that two days after Jovenel Moïse was slain, Martine Moïse called to tell him that, “Jovenel didn’t do anything for us. You have to open the office. The president told Ti Klod to create a council of ministers; he will hold elections in three months, so I can become president, now we will have power.”</p>

<p>While the document did not identify Ti Klod, the former prime minister, Claude Joseph, is known by that name.</p>

<p>The judge also stated in his report that Martine Moïse “suggested” she took refuge under the marital bed to protect herself from the attackers, but he noted that authorities at the scene found that not “even a giant ratâ€æwhose size measures between 35 and 45 centimeters” could fit under the bed.</p>

<p>The judge said the former first lady’s statements were “so tainted with contradictions that they leave something to be desired and discredit her.”</p>

<p>Others who face charges including murder are Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a Haitian-American pastor who visualized himself as Haiti’s next president and said he thought Moïse was only going to be arrested; Joseph Vincent, a Haitian-American and former informant for the US Drug Enforcement Administration; Dimitri Hérard, presidential security chief; John Joël Joseph, a former Haitian senator; and Windelle Coq, a Haitian judge whom authorities say is a fugitive.</p>

<p>Sanon, Vincent and Joseph were extradited to the US, where a total of 11 suspects face federal charges in the slaying of Haiti’s president. At least three of them have already been sentenced.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, more than 40 suspects are languishing in prison in Haiti awaiting trial, although it was not immediately clear how quickly one would be held following Monday’s indictments. Among them are 20 former Colombian soldiers.</p>

<p>Milena Carmona, wife of Jheyner Alberto Carmona Fl³rez, told The Associated Press that he is innocent.</p>

<p>“What’s happening is that this crime is a conspiracy of great magnitude in which powerful people are behind the scenes running everything, and that’s why they’re not given freedom,” she said of the former soldiers.</p>

<p>US prosecutors have described it as a plot hatched in both Haiti and&nbsp;Florida<a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/us-man-pleads-guilty-case-linked-2021-assassination-of-ex-haiti-president-2500383-2024-02-11" target="_self">&nbsp;</a>to hire mercenaries to kidnap or kill Moïse, who was 53 when he was slain at his private home near the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince.</p>

<p>The attack began late July 6 and ended July 7, according to witnesses.</p>

<p>Martine Moïse and others who were interrogated said they heard heavy gunfire starting around 1 a.m. that lasted between 30 to 45 minutes before armed men burst into the bedroom of the presidential couple.</p>

<p>Moïse said she was lying on the ground when she heard the attackers yell, “That’s not it! That’s not it! That’s not it!”</p>

<p>She said the suspects made a video call to identify the exact location of what they were searching as they killed the president. She added that she was face down when the suspects tilted her head and tugged on one of her toes “to ensure that she wasn’t alive.”</p>

<p>Once they left, Moïse said she dragged herself on the ground and whispered to her husband that she was going to try and go to the hospital.</p>

<p>“That’s when she noticed that the president was dead and that his left eye had been removed from the socket,” the report stated.</p>

<p>Moïse said a group of about 30 to 50 police officers were supposed to guard the presidential residence, but the judge noted that only a handful of officers were present that night. One officer told the judge that he heard explosions and a voice through a megaphone saying, “Do not shoot! It’s a DEA operation! US Army! We know how many officers are inside. Exit with two hands lowered.”</p>

<p>Another officer said the head of security of the first lady found her “in critical condition” surrounded by her two children. He said he also saw an undetermined number of people coming out of the president’s residence “with briefcases and several envelopes in their possession.”</p>

<p>The report quotes Inspector General André Vladimir Paraison saying that the president called him at 1:46 a.m. and told him, “Paraison! Man, hurry up! I’m in trouble! Come quickly and save my life.” He said he encountered heavily armed men and couldn’t access the residence immediately.</p>

<p>Officers at the scene said they found cars, windows and doors at the president’s private home riddled with bullet holes, along with surveillance cameras cut off and a broken lock on the double-wooden door leading to the presidential bedroom.</p>

<p>The judge said some police officers at the residence were disarmed and handcuffed, while others “had time to throw themselves down a ravine” for safety. In addition, the police officer overseeing presidential security was accused of receiving $80,000 to bribe certain officers “to remain inactive” during the assassination, according to the report.</p>

<p>The judge noted how “none of the police providing security to the head of state was in danger. Unfortunately, the head of state was assassinated with ease.”</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A judge in Haiti responsible for investigating the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse indicted his widow, Martine Moïse, ex-prime minister Claude Joseph and the former chief of Haiti’s National Police, Léon Charles, among others, in a report released on Monday.

A judge in Haiti responsible for investigating the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse indicted his widow, Martine Moïse, ex-prime minister Claude Joseph and the former chief of Haiti’s National Police, Léon Charles, among others, in a report released on Monday. The indictments are expected to further destabilize Haiti as it struggles with a surge in gang violence and recovers from a spate of violent protests demanding the resignation of current Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Dozens of suspects were indicted in the 122-page report issued by Walther Wesser Voltaire, who is the fifth judge to lead the investigation after previous ones stepped down for various reasons, including fear of being killed. Charles, who was police chief when Moïse was killed and now serves as Haiti’s permanent representative to the Organization of the American States, faces the most serious charges: murder; attempted murder; possession and illegal carrying of weapons; conspiracy against the internal security of the state; and criminal association. Meanwhile, Joseph and Martine Moïse, who were injured in the attack, are accused of complicity and criminal association. Charles could not be immediately reached for comment, and Martine Moïse’s attorney did not return a message for comment. Meanwhile, Joseph, the former prime minister, shared a statement with The Associated Press accusing Henry of “undermining” the investigation and benefitting from the president’s death. “Henry... is weaponizing the Haitian justice system, prosecuting political opponents like me. It’s a classic coup d’état,” Joseph said. “They failed to kill me and Martine Moïse on July 7th 2021, now they are using the Haitian justice system to advance their Machiavellian agenda.” Joseph again called on Henry to resign and noted that while he was still prime minister, he invited the FBI to help local authorities investigate the killing and wrote the UN and OAS for help. “I won’t stop my fight. Justice must be served,” he said. In his report, the judge noted that the former secretary general of the National Palace, Lyonel Valbrun, told authorities that he received “strong pressure” from Martine Moïse to put the president’s office at the disposal of Joseph because he needed it to “organize a council of ministers.” Valbrun also said that two days before her husband was killed, Martine Moïse visited the National Palace and spent nearly five hours, from 10 pm to 3 am, removing “a bunch of things.” He said that two days after Jovenel Moïse was slain, Martine Moïse called to tell him that, “Jovenel didn’t do anything for us. You have to open the office. The president told Ti Klod to create a council of ministers; he will hold elections in three months, so I can become president, now we will have power.” While the document did not identify Ti Klod, the former prime minister, Claude Joseph, is known by that name. The judge also stated in his report that Martine Moïse “suggested” she took refuge under the marital bed to protect herself from the attackers, but he noted that authorities at the scene found that not “even a giant ratâ€æwhose size measures between 35 and 45 centimeters” could fit under the bed. The judge said the former first lady’s statements were “so tainted with contradictions that they leave something to be desired and discredit her.” Others who face charges including murder are Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a Haitian-American pastor who visualized himself as Haiti’s next president and said he thought Moïse was only going to be arrested; Joseph Vincent, a Haitian-American and former informant for the US Drug Enforcement Administration; Dimitri Hérard, presidential security chief; John Joël Joseph, a former Haitian senator; and Windelle Coq, a Haitian judge whom authorities say is a fugitive. Sanon, Vincent and Joseph were extradited to the US, where a total of 11 suspects face federal charges in the slaying of Haiti’s president. At least three of them have already been sentenced. Meanwhile, more than 40 suspects are languishing in prison in Haiti awaiting trial, although it was not immediately clear how quickly one would be held following Monday’s indictments. Among them are 20 former Colombian soldiers. Milena Carmona, wife of Jheyner Alberto Carmona Fl³rez, told The Associated Press that he is innocent. “What’s happening is that this crime is a conspiracy of great magnitude in which powerful people are behind the scenes running everything, and that’s why they’re not given freedom,” she said of the former soldiers. US prosecutors have described it as a plot hatched in both Haiti and Florida to hire mercenaries to kidnap or kill Moïse, who was 53 when he was slain at his private home near the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince. The attack began late July 6 and ended July 7, according to witnesses. Martine Moïse and others who were interrogated said they heard heavy gunfire starting around 1 a.m. that lasted between 30 to 45 minutes before armed men burst into the bedroom of the presidential couple. Moïse said she was lying on the ground when she heard the attackers yell, “That’s not it! That’s not it! That’s not it!” She said the suspects made a video call to identify the exact location of what they were searching as they killed the president. She added that she was face down when the suspects tilted her head and tugged on one of her toes “to ensure that she wasn’t alive.” Once they left, Moïse said she dragged herself on the ground and whispered to her husband that she was going to try and go to the hospital. “That’s when she noticed that the president was dead and that his left eye had been removed from the socket,” the report stated. Moïse said a group of about 30 to 50 police officers were supposed to guard the presidential residence, but the judge noted that only a handful of officers were present that night. One officer told the judge that he heard explosions and a voice through a megaphone saying, “Do not shoot! It’s a DEA operation! US Army! We know how many officers are inside. Exit with two hands lowered.” Another officer said the head of security of the first lady found her “in critical condition” surrounded by her two children. He said he also saw an undetermined number of people coming out of the president’s residence “with briefcases and several envelopes in their possession.” The report quotes Inspector General André Vladimir Paraison saying that the president called him at 1:46 a.m. and told him, “Paraison! Man, hurry up! I’m in trouble! Come quickly and save my life.” He said he encountered heavily armed men and couldn’t access the residence immediately. Officers at the scene said they found cars, windows and doors at the president’s private home riddled with bullet holes, along with surveillance cameras cut off and a broken lock on the double-wooden door leading to the presidential bedroom. The judge said some police officers at the residence were disarmed and handcuffed, while others “had time to throw themselves down a ravine” for safety. In addition, the police officer overseeing presidential security was accused of receiving $80,000 to bribe certain officers “to remain inactive” during the assassination, according to the report. The judge noted how “none of the police providing security to the head of state was in danger. Unfortunately, the head of state was assassinated with ease.”

Former Haiti President's wife, ex-Prime Minister accused in his assassination

The show Israel's Army pressed on Sunday with its campaign in southern Gaza to destroy Hamas as prospects dimmed for a ceasefire. In the more than 4-month old conflict Israel has concentrated its military operations in Khan Younis the hometown of Hamas in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas War | Israel government formally rejects recognition of Palestinian State

<p>Ahead of Tuesday's (Feb 20) vote on an Algerian resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the United States on Monday (Feb 19) tabled its own UN Security Council draft resolution on Gaza. In other news, a&nbsp;number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rivalling-alegrias-efforts-us-proposes-its-own-un-draft-resolution-on-israel-hamas-war-691809">Rivalling Algeria's efforts, US proposes its own UN draft resolution on Israel-Hamas war<br />
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<p>Ahead of Tuesday's (Feb 20) vote on an Algerian resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the United States on Monday (Feb 19) tabled its own UN Security Council draft resolution on Gaza.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-death-european-nations-summon-russian-diplomats-warn-of-fresh-sanctions-691810">Alexei Navalny death: European nations summon Russian diplomats, warn of fresh sanctions<br />
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<p>A number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-president-lula-recalls-ambassador-to-israel-amid-diplomatic-row-691817">Brazilian President Lula recalls ambassador to Israel amid diplomatic row<br />
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<p>Brazil’s foreign ministry recalled its ambassador to Israel as Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19) said President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the military operation against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wikileaks-founder-julian-assange-initiates-last-ditch-battle-to-halt-us-extradition-691816">WikiLeaks' founder Julian Assange initiates last-ditch battle to halt US extradition<br />
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<p>Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has entered what may be his final opportunity to halt his extradition from Britain to the United States. After over 13 years of legal battles in English courts, Assange faces US prosecutors seeking to try him on 18 charges linked to WikiLeaks' disclosure of confidential US military records and diplomatic cables, as reported by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India Farmers Protest: Proposals not in interest of farmers, they have rejected offer: Union Leaders</strong></p>

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Ahead of Tuesday's (Feb 20) vote on an Algerian resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the United States on Monday (Feb 19) tabled its own UN Security Council draft resolution on Gaza.

Ahead of Tuesday's (Feb 20) vote on an Algerian resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the United States on Monday (Feb 19) tabled its own UN Security Council draft resolution on Gaza. In other news, a number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions. Click on the headlines to read more: Rivalling Algeria's efforts, US proposes its own UN draft resolution on Israel-Hamas war Ahead of Tuesday's (Feb 20) vote on an Algerian resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the United States on Monday (Feb 19) tabled its own UN Security Council draft resolution on Gaza. Alexei Navalny death: European nations summon Russian diplomats, warn of fresh sanctions A number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions. Brazilian President Lula recalls ambassador to Israel amid diplomatic row Brazil’s foreign ministry recalled its ambassador to Israel as Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19) said President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks comparing the military operation against Hamas in Gaza to the Nazi genocide. WikiLeaks' founder Julian Assange initiates last-ditch battle to halt US extradition Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has entered what may be his final opportunity to halt his extradition from Britain to the United States. After over 13 years of legal battles in English courts, Assange faces US prosecutors seeking to try him on 18 charges linked to WikiLeaks' disclosure of confidential US military records and diplomatic cables, as reported by Reuters. WATCH | India Farmers Protest: Proposals not in interest of farmers, they have rejected offer: Union Leaders

Morning brief: US proposes UN resolution for temporary ceasefire in Gaza; Brazil-Israel diplomatic row & more

Myanmar's junta has sentenced to death three high-ranking officers who oversaw the surrender of a strategic town on the Chinese border to ethnic minority fighters last month, military sources told news agency.

Three Myanmar Brigadier Generals sentenced to death for surrendering town

India has lend a diplomatic hand to Male, even though ties have been strained between the two nations. New Delhi has spent around $93 billion on developmental projects in Maldives. Watch to know more!

India-Maldives tensions: Despite row, India's projects in Maldives gain pace

<p>Even as border talks continue between China and Bhutan, the communist country is reportedly doubling down on building villages in the disputed territory.</p>

<p>According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the Tibet autonomous region pushed the expansion of border villages in the mountainous region in the second half of 2023. In December, the first batch of 38 households was settled here from the Tibetan city of Shigatse.</p>

<p>At least three such villages have expanded over the last year, shows satellite imagery captured by US-based Maxar Technologies. One of the villages was modified to accommodate 230 households, up from 70 homes at the end of 2022.</p>

<p>According to officials quoted by SCMP, these villagers were developed under China’s state-led poverty alleviation scheme but also doubled as “citadels” to boost national security.</p>

<p>According to a 2023 funding report, the Tamalung village was developed with a funding of $3.6 million, with money being spent on developing new houses, building two bridges, paving roads and reinforcing the bank of a stream.</p>

<h2><strong>Bhutan’s response</strong></h2>

<p>Bhutan has shied away from calling out Chinese incursion. SCMP reported that Thimphu was downplaying the controversy.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian PM's last foreign trip during second term likely to be Bhutan</strong></p>

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<p>However, it said Bhutan’s closest strategic partner and the other Asian giant India was paying close attention to the developments in the disputed area of around 495 sq km (191 square miles).</p>

<h2><strong>China using villages as a tool for national security</strong></h2>

<p>Setting up villages on disputed borders has long been a Chinese policy to assert dominance and control. According to People’s Daily, a mouthpiece of the communist government, China had established more than 620 such “border moderate prosperity villages” by the end of 2021.</p>

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<p>Local officials quoted by SCMP admitted these villages helped the government serve two purposes simultaneously—providing the best housing facilities to residents and defending the borders.</p>

<p>Both central government and provincial governments fund such projects, with some state-backed corporations also playing a key role.</p>

<h2><strong>Residents are offered incentives</strong></h2>

<p>The report said residents are often offered incentives to settle in these remote villages.</p>

<p>Last year, Tibet authorities offered up to 12,800 yuan (US$1,780) as an incentive to residents in other parts of the region to resettle in the border area, SCMP reported.</p>

<p>Village leaders and immigration police are often seen parading with Chinese flags and spraying words and images like “China” or the Chinese national flag on stones and tree trunks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Even as border talks continue between China and Bhutan, the communist country is reportedly doubling down on building villages in the disputed territory. According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the Tibet autonomous region pushed the expansion of border villages in the mountainous region in the second half of 2023.

Even as border talks continue between China and Bhutan, the communist country is reportedly doubling down on building villages in the disputed territory. According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the Tibet autonomous region pushed the expansion of border villages in the mountainous region in the second half of 2023. In December, the first batch of 38 households was settled here from the Tibetan city of Shigatse. At least three such villages have expanded over the last year, shows satellite imagery captured by US-based Maxar Technologies. One of the villages was modified to accommodate 230 households, up from 70 homes at the end of 2022. According to officials quoted by SCMP, these villagers were developed under China’s state-led poverty alleviation scheme but also doubled as “citadels” to boost national security. According to a 2023 funding report, the Tamalung village was developed with a funding of $3.6 million, with money being spent on developing new houses, building two bridges, paving roads and reinforcing the bank of a stream. Bhutan’s response Bhutan has shied away from calling out Chinese incursion. SCMP reported that Thimphu was downplaying the controversy. Watch: Indian PM's last foreign trip during second term likely to be Bhutan × However, it said Bhutan’s closest strategic partner and the other Asian giant India was paying close attention to the developments in the disputed area of around 495 sq km (191 square miles). China using villages as a tool for national security Setting up villages on disputed borders has long been a Chinese policy to assert dominance and control. According to People’s Daily, a mouthpiece of the communist government, China had established more than 620 such “border moderate prosperity villages” by the end of 2021. Also read: Indian PM Modi likely to visit Bhutan later this month Local officials quoted by SCMP admitted these villages helped the government serve two purposes simultaneously—providing the best housing facilities to residents and defending the borders. Both central government and provincial governments fund such projects, with some state-backed corporations also playing a key role. Residents are offered incentives The report said residents are often offered incentives to settle in these remote villages. Last year, Tibet authorities offered up to 12,800 yuan (US$1,780) as an incentive to residents in other parts of the region to resettle in the border area, SCMP reported. Village leaders and immigration police are often seen parading with Chinese flags and spraying words and images like “China” or the Chinese national flag on stones and tree trunks. (With inputs from agencies)

China building villages in disputed areas on Bhutan border, Thimphu downplays row: Report

The Taliban rejected the appointment of UN special envoy. The Taliban Administration skipped the United Nations meeting on Afghanistan in Doha. UN Chief says Taliban tabled unacceptable conditions for attending the meeting while adding that he hopes the Taliban participation at their future meetings. Watch to know more!

Taliban skips UN meet on Afghanistan in Doha | UN aims for future meetings with Taliban

The United States has proposed a draft United Nations security Council resolution which calls for a temporary ceasefire in the war and opposes Israel's ground offensive in Rafah. All EU countries except Hungary have called for an immediate humanitarian pause in the war. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war | US, EU warn Israel against Rafah offensive

<p>White House is planning to impose more sanctions on Russia following the death of high-profile Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week inside prison. US National Security Spokesman John Kirby on Tuesday (Feb 20) said Russian President Vladimir Putin was responsible for Navalny’s death.</p>

<p>“Whatever story the Russian government decides to tell the world, it’s clear that President Putin and his government are responsible for Mr. Navalny’s death,” Kirby said.</p>

<p>“In response, at President Biden’s direction, we will be announcing a major sanctions package on Friday of this week,” he added.</p>

<p>The US has already imposed a raft of sanctions on Russia, especially after it invaded Ukraine in 2022.</p>

<p>Kirby said new sanctions will further strengthen efforts to damage the Russian economy. He added that the details of the sanctions will be released on Friday (Feb 23).</p>

<h2><strong>Russia economy still expanding</strong></h2>

<p>Russia is already the world’s most-sanctioned nation in the world. According to castellum.ai, the US and allies have imposed over 19,000 sanctions on Russia since 2014.</p>

<p>The US alone has imposed above 4,500 sanctions during this period. In terms of most sanctions imposed, Russia is followed by Iran, Syria, North Korea, and Belarus.</p>

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<p>However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its latest report raised Russia’s growth outlook. Russia’s Gross domestic product is forecast to rise 2.6 per cent in 2024, more than double the pace the IMF predicted as recently as October, and slightly slower than the 3 per cent expansion estimated for 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny’s wife holds Putin responsible</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Navalny’s wife Yulia Navalnaya has said Putin is responsible for her husband’s death.</p>

<p>Russia’s prison authorities said Navalny lost consciousness after going for a walk and could not be resuscitated. The Russian government said Monday it was investigating Navalny’s cause of death.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work</strong></p>

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<p>Kirby on Tuesday also used the opportunity to throw more weight behind war-torn Ukraine.</p>

<p>“One of the most powerful things that we can do right now to stand up to Vladimir Putin, of course, is to again, pass the bipartisan national security supplemental bill and support Ukraine,” Kirby said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


White House is planning to impose more sanctions on Russia following the death of high-profile Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week inside prison. US National Security Spokesman John Kirby on Tuesday (Feb 20) said Russian President Vladimir Putin was responsible for Navalny’s death.

White House is planning to impose more sanctions on Russia following the death of high-profile Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week inside prison. US National Security Spokesman John Kirby on Tuesday (Feb 20) said Russian President Vladimir Putin was responsible for Navalny’s death. “Whatever story the Russian government decides to tell the world, it’s clear that President Putin and his government are responsible for Mr. Navalny’s death,” Kirby said. “In response, at President Biden’s direction, we will be announcing a major sanctions package on Friday of this week,” he added. The US has already imposed a raft of sanctions on Russia, especially after it invaded Ukraine in 2022. Kirby said new sanctions will further strengthen efforts to damage the Russian economy. He added that the details of the sanctions will be released on Friday (Feb 23). Russia economy still expanding Russia is already the world’s most-sanctioned nation in the world. According to castellum.ai, the US and allies have imposed over 19,000 sanctions on Russia since 2014. The US alone has imposed above 4,500 sanctions during this period. In terms of most sanctions imposed, Russia is followed by Iran, Syria, North Korea, and Belarus. Also read: Alexei Navalny’s wife Yulia’s X social media account briefly suspended However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its latest report raised Russia’s growth outlook. Russia’s Gross domestic product is forecast to rise 2.6 per cent in 2024, more than double the pace the IMF predicted as recently as October, and slightly slower than the 3 per cent expansion estimated for 2023. Navalny’s wife holds Putin responsible Meanwhile, Navalny’s wife Yulia Navalnaya has said Putin is responsible for her husband’s death. Russia’s prison authorities said Navalny lost consciousness after going for a walk and could not be resuscitated. The Russian government said Monday it was investigating Navalny’s cause of death. Watch: Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work × Kirby on Tuesday also used the opportunity to throw more weight behind war-torn Ukraine. “One of the most powerful things that we can do right now to stand up to Vladimir Putin, of course, is to again, pass the bipartisan national security supplemental bill and support Ukraine,” Kirby said. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny’s death: White House to impose more sanctions on Russia

<p>The United States on Tuesday (Feb 20) again vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Thirteen council members voted in favour of the Algerian-drafted text, while Britain abstained as Hamas condemned the move saying it amounted to giving Israel the "green light" to carry out "more massacres".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is Washington's ambassador to the UN, said: "Proceeding with a vote today was wishful and irresponsible... we cannot support a resolution that would put sensitive negotiations in jeopardy." She also advocated an alternate resolution drafted by the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-india-act-as-mediator-to-end-russia-ukraine-war-jaishankar-responds-692012">Will India act as mediator to end Russia-Ukraine war? Jaishankar responds</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Palestinian envoy to the United Nations Riyad Mansour called it "absolutely reckless and dangerous".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The demand was aimed at pushing the 15-member body to call for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire linked to the release of hostages held by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was the third such US veto since the start of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas militants, which began when the Palestinian Islamist group launched an unprecedented attack on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures released by Israel. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched a massive military offensive in Gaza that the territory's health ministry claims has killed at least 28,340 people, mostly women and children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-launches-red-sea-mission-houthis-claim-to-target-two-american-ships-in-gulf-of-aden-691937">EU launches Red Sea mission; Houthis claim to have targeted ‘two American ships’ in Gulf of Aden</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Prince William: 'Too many' have been killed&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Britain's Prince William weighed in on the ongoing conflict, calling on Tuesday for an end to the fighting in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the "sheer scale of human suffering" had brought home the need for peace in an enclave "where too many have been killed".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Gazans demand ceasefire, Arab intervention&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The comments were rare as it was an unusually direct intervention for a member of the royal family. William, the heir to the British throne, said it was critical that aid got through to those sheltering in Gaza, and that Hamas must release the hostages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed," William said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Tuesday (Feb 20) again vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Thirteen council members voted in favour of the Algerian-drafted text, while Britain abstained as Hamas condemned the move saying it amounted to giving Israel the "green light" to carry out "more massacres".

The United States on Tuesday (Feb 20) again vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Thirteen council members voted in favour of the Algerian-drafted text, while Britain abstained as Hamas condemned the move saying it amounted to giving Israel the "green light" to carry out "more massacres". Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is Washington's ambassador to the UN, said: "Proceeding with a vote today was wishful and irresponsible... we cannot support a resolution that would put sensitive negotiations in jeopardy." She also advocated an alternate resolution drafted by the US. Also read: Will India act as mediator to end Russia-Ukraine war? Jaishankar responds The Palestinian envoy to the United Nations Riyad Mansour called it "absolutely reckless and dangerous". The demand was aimed at pushing the 15-member body to call for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire linked to the release of hostages held by Hamas. It was the third such US veto since the start of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas militants, which began when the Palestinian Islamist group launched an unprecedented attack on October 7. The attack resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures released by Israel. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched a massive military offensive in Gaza that the territory's health ministry claims has killed at least 28,340 people, mostly women and children. Also read: EU launches Red Sea mission; Houthis claim to have targeted ‘two American ships’ in Gulf of Aden Prince William: 'Too many' have been killed Britain's Prince William weighed in on the ongoing conflict, calling on Tuesday for an end to the fighting in Gaza. He said that the "sheer scale of human suffering" had brought home the need for peace in an enclave "where too many have been killed". Watch: Israel-Hamas war | Gazans demand ceasefire, Arab intervention × The comments were rare as it was an unusually direct intervention for a member of the royal family. William, the heir to the British throne, said it was critical that aid got through to those sheltering in Gaza, and that Hamas must release the hostages. "I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed," William said in a statement. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: US again vetoes UN Security Council resolution for Gaza ceasefire

<p>Nikki Haley&nbsp;declared on Tuesday that she will not withdraw from the GOP presidential contest despite a campaign of pressure from former President Donald Trump and his supporters.</p>

<p>Nikki Haley describes Biden and Trump as polarizing individuals at a pivotal moment when America needs a unifying leader, claiming that both have disrupted normalcy with turmoil. She stresses that instead of giving in to more divisions and diversions during these dangerous times, it is critical to recover focus and a common goal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/nimbra-donald-trump-mocks-nikki-haleys-first-name-she-responds-681808" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/nimbra-donald-trump-mocks-nikki-haleys-first-name-she-responds-681808&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiuz-D9vbqEAxUwTGwGHXIpAuoQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw38E1gX1AG3RouEyLW7KHNt" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nimbra-donald-trump-mocks-nikki-haleys-first-name-she-responds-681808" target="_blank">'Nimbra': Donald Trump mocks&nbsp;<b>Nikki Haley's</b>&nbsp;first name</a></p>

<p>In a significant speech in Greenville, S.C., she emphasised her independence, stating, "I feel no need to kiss the ring," and reiterated her determination to continue irrespective of the primary outcome.</p>

<p>Addressing concerns about her potential withdrawal, she reaffirmed her pledge to stay in the race through Super Tuesday, with the possibility of extending her campaign.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: The power story of Nikki Haley</strong></p>

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<p>Approaching a contentious Republican primary in her home state, Nikki Haley defends her decision to stay in the race, challenging the herd mentality within her party that aligns with former President Trump.</p>

<p>Rejecting the need to appease Trump or fear retribution, she asserts her commitment to pursuing the nomination beyond the upcoming primary.</p>

<p>Despite ongoing questions about her candidacy, Haley's campaign remains active, attracting financial support from high-profile donors and enlisting the aid of elected officials, business leaders, and community figures across various states.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-nikki-haley-the-indian-american-top-gun-with-strong-political-views-teased-to-challenge-biden-in-2024-557874" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-nikki-haley-the-indian-american-top-gun-with-strong-political-views-teased-to-challenge-biden-in-2024-557874&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiuz-D9vbqEAxUwTGwGHXIpAuoQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3sEndZyh1pS215KCsNzaDk" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-nikki-haley-the-indian-american-top-gun-with-strong-political-views-teased-to-challenge-biden-in-2024-557874" target="_blank">Who is&nbsp;<b>Nikki Haley</b>?</a></p>

<p>She contends that America rejects a rematch between Trump and Biden, citing widespread sentiment that both candidates are perceived as too old for the presidency.</p>

<p>Haley argues that Trump and Biden have traded normalcy for chaos, emphasising the urgent need for a unifying leader in contrast to their divisive approaches. She underscores the public's concern not just about their policies but also about the divisive nature of their leadership.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nikki Haley declared on Tuesday that she will not withdraw from the GOP presidential contest despite a campaign of pressure from former President Donald Trump and his supporters.

Nikki Haley declared on Tuesday that she will not withdraw from the GOP presidential contest despite a campaign of pressure from former President Donald Trump and his supporters. Nikki Haley describes Biden and Trump as polarizing individuals at a pivotal moment when America needs a unifying leader, claiming that both have disrupted normalcy with turmoil. She stresses that instead of giving in to more divisions and diversions during these dangerous times, it is critical to recover focus and a common goal. Also read: 'Nimbra': Donald Trump mocks Nikki Haley's first name In a significant speech in Greenville, S.C., she emphasised her independence, stating, "I feel no need to kiss the ring," and reiterated her determination to continue irrespective of the primary outcome. Addressing concerns about her potential withdrawal, she reaffirmed her pledge to stay in the race through Super Tuesday, with the possibility of extending her campaign. Watch: US: The power story of Nikki Haley × Approaching a contentious Republican primary in her home state, Nikki Haley defends her decision to stay in the race, challenging the herd mentality within her party that aligns with former President Trump. Rejecting the need to appease Trump or fear retribution, she asserts her commitment to pursuing the nomination beyond the upcoming primary. Despite ongoing questions about her candidacy, Haley's campaign remains active, attracting financial support from high-profile donors and enlisting the aid of elected officials, business leaders, and community figures across various states. Also read: Who is Nikki Haley? She contends that America rejects a rematch between Trump and Biden, citing widespread sentiment that both candidates are perceived as too old for the presidency. Haley argues that Trump and Biden have traded normalcy for chaos, emphasising the urgent need for a unifying leader in contrast to their divisive approaches. She underscores the public's concern not just about their policies but also about the divisive nature of their leadership. (With inputs from agencies)

Nikki Haley stands firm: No plans to withdraw, unfazed by ‘Trump’s retribution

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