The Early Spring is proof not everyone can talk about their real feelings, and it is perfectly OK

UN votes to ‘correct the map’ as India backs fairer world view

Nigerian Navy discovers 99,000 litres of suspected stolen, illegally refined products as it intensifies anti-crude oil theft operations

Who is Aditi Paudel? 17-year-old becomes Japan's first literacy ambassador

Bengaluru: Officials find 40 kg expired chilli at chairman's club 

Jaishankar rejects trade link to ending Ukraine war 

Israeli strikes on Lebanon kill three, injure 23 despite truce

Alpine glacier was covered with sheep wool sheets to prevent melting. It worked

South Korea mulls deploying military assets to Strait of Hormuz

World's fifth-largest economy, British army can't afford to train

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Taiwan raises 'concerns' over China's missile test

BRICS 2026: $1 trillion sovereign capital set to converge in Delhi for first iBRICS Summit

What is Iran's Pickaxe Mountain that Trump has again threatened to bomb?

UN votes to correct world map that visually shrank Africa for 450 years

Former NewJeans member Danielle launches YouTube channel, hints at new solo journey

Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy creates history with 350 not out in South Africa

Brendan Fraser’s transformation fuels The Mummy 4 excitement as fans welcome back Rick O’Connell

Krishna Janmashtami 2026: From Dhaniya Panjiri to Makhana Kheer- 5 best sweet dishes perfect for celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth

Donald Trump plans to travel to Ireland on Qatari-donated jet amid security concerns

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New Friday OTT releases (September 4, 2026): GDN, Dhamaal 4, Jagamae Sangeetham- Watch 6 new movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

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

A Bulgarian man living in the UK has been accused of being part of spy ring who attempted to collect information for Russia. He is the sixth person to be charged as part of an investigation into a suspected espionage plot, after five others were accused of carrying out surveillance for Vladimir Putin's regime last Autumn.

Sixth individual accused of Russian espionage in the UK

Police were called to an “immersive event” inspired by Willy Wonka in Glasgow after furious parents complained about the quality of the event. Watch in for more details!

Police called to 'Willy Wonka' chocolate experience as families 'furious'

At least 77 people have been killed in an alleged Israeli attack while they were waiting for immediate aid. The Palestinian media office in Gaza has accused Israel of intentionally attacking civilians and killing the people waiting for food in cold blood.

Israel War: At least 77 Gazans killed while waiting for aid

Consumer organisations from various EU nations have lodged formal complaints against Meta, alleging that the tech giant is unlawfully handling user data and employing its "pay or consent" mechanism to mask privacy violations.&nbsp;Complaints have been filed by consumer groups from the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Greece, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain, media reports said.&nbsp;

Meta, previously known as Facebook, has faced criticism for its alleged lucrative practice of selling user data to advertisers. This has sparked confrontations with EU authorities regarding data privacy regulations.

Meta, last year in November, introduced a "pay or consent" system enabling users to abstain from data utilisation for targeted advertising by paying a monthly fee.

However, privacy advocates have raised concerns over its legality.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-west-creating-real-risk-of-nuclear-war-695140">Putin says West creating 'real' risk of nuclear war</a>

The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) labeled Meta's system "a smokescreen to obscure the real problem of massive, illegal data processing of users which goes on regardless of what users choose."

BEUC's Deputy Director General, Ursula Pachl, emphasised the need for data protection and authorities to intervene, stating, "It's time for data protection authorities to stop Meta's unfair data processing and its infringing of people's fundamental rights."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-in-us-orlando-kills-one-person-injures-several-others-695117">Shooting in US' Orlando kills one person, injures several others</a>

BEUC's report also accused Meta of violating GDPR principles by lacking transparency and overcollecting user data for commercial gain.

The report said, "Meta seems to be of the opinion that in order for the company to earn money with advertising, it is justified to collect any imaginable data on consumers' activities, location, personalities, behaviour, attitudes and emotions."&nbsp;

"In reality, the massive exploitation of the private lives of hundreds of millions of European consumers for commercial gain fails to respect various fundamental principles of the GDPR," it added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/idaho-fails-to-execute-serial-killer-thomas-creech-after-10-failed-attempts-695133">Idaho fails to execute serial killer Thomas Creech after 10 failed attempts</a>

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Under Meta's model, European users can opt out of data sharing for a monthly fee ranging from 10 to 13 euros. However, BEUC argues that this approach coerces consent, which is against GDPR requirements.

(With inputs from agencies)

Consumer organisations from various EU nations have lodged formal complaints against Meta, alleging that the tech giant is unlawfully handling user data and employing its "pay or consent" mechanism to mask privacy violations.

Consumer organisations from various EU nations have lodged formal complaints against Meta, alleging that the tech giant is unlawfully handling user data and employing its "pay or consent" mechanism to mask privacy violations. Complaints have been filed by consumer groups from the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Greece, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain, media reports said. Meta, previously known as Facebook, has faced criticism for its alleged lucrative practice of selling user data to advertisers. This has sparked confrontations with EU authorities regarding data privacy regulations. Meta, last year in November, introduced a "pay or consent" system enabling users to abstain from data utilisation for targeted advertising by paying a monthly fee. However, privacy advocates have raised concerns over its legality. Also Read | Putin says West creating 'real' risk of nuclear war The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) labeled Meta's system "a smokescreen to obscure the real problem of massive, illegal data processing of users which goes on regardless of what users choose." BEUC's Deputy Director General, Ursula Pachl, emphasised the need for data protection and authorities to intervene, stating, "It's time for data protection authorities to stop Meta's unfair data processing and its infringing of people's fundamental rights." Also Read | Shooting in US' Orlando kills one person, injures several others BEUC's report also accused Meta of violating GDPR principles by lacking transparency and overcollecting user data for commercial gain. The report said, "Meta seems to be of the opinion that in order for the company to earn money with advertising, it is justified to collect any imaginable data on consumers' activities, location, personalities, behaviour, attitudes and emotions." "In reality, the massive exploitation of the private lives of hundreds of millions of European consumers for commercial gain fails to respect various fundamental principles of the GDPR," it added. Watch | Idaho fails to execute serial killer Thomas Creech after 10 failed attempts × Under Meta's model, European users can opt out of data sharing for a monthly fee ranging from 10 to 13 euros. However, BEUC argues that this approach coerces consent, which is against GDPR requirements. (With inputs from agencies)

European consumers challenge Meta's 'pay or consent' service. Here's why

The families of hostages held in Gaza and their supporters are launching a four-day march from southern Israel to Jerusalem to demand their loved ones be set free.

Israel war: Families of Israeli hostages march to Jerusalem

India slammed Pakistan at the 55th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). First Secretary Anupama Singh raised the issue of persecution of minorities in Pakistan, she also described Pakistan's Human Rights record as truly abysmal.

India slams Pakistan for raking up Kashmir issue at UNHRC

At least about six people have died after a boat carrying migrants sank in the English Channel. The boat was crossing France's channel to reach Britain. While French authorities have said that at least about 60 migrants have now been rescued the search for the missing passengers is still on.

Tragedy in the English Channel: Three feared dead

Prince Harry lost a long-running legal battle over the downgrading of his security in Britain, as a High Court judge ruled on Wednesday that the British government was entitled to change the level of police protection for a member of the royal family who was no longer carrying out official duties.

Prince Harry loses high court challenge over UK security levels

A doorbell cam video has emerged showing a US father confessing to have killed his son after a heated argument over bringing girls to the house.

David De Jesus Contrereas, 52, told his wife about the killing through the camera as she asked: 'Is he alive? Is he breathing?'

The video was shared even as&nbsp;court proceedings are on about the shooting, which happened in November last year. 
 
"He's not breathing. He's dead," the father can be heard saying in the video, while sobbing.

"The fighting on the way home was unbearable," David reportedly said in the footage obtained by Local 10 News last week.

Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Gravitas | Mother accused of killing her 4-year-old son

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The son, identified as Eric, 22, was a student at Florida International University. Eric returned to his family in Miami on November 6 last year.&nbsp;

He was reportedly shot dead on November 3, just three days before he was to turn 23.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/21-year-old-ukrainian-boy-adopted-by-american-couple-brutally-killed-his-adoptive-parents-633232">21-year-old Ukrainian boy adopted by American couple brutally killed his adoptive parents</a>

In the surveillance footage, David's wife asks the reason why the violence unfolded.

David responds that the matter escalated 'from one second to the next'.

He then mentions his son Eric asking if the girls could sleep over, to which he says no.&nbsp;

"It's not your fault. Please call my brother," David could be seen begging his wife in the video.

Shortly, he calls the emergency services and confesses "I just shot my son".&nbsp;

Eric was found with multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp;

David was arrested in November. He pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder during his arraignment before Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Daryl Trawick, reports in the US media said.&nbsp;

He is currently being held without bond at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. The next court hearing date is scheduled for March 11.

According to a 2014 study, between 2004-2014 period, American parents have committed filicide, the killing of one's child, about 3,000 times a year. The research drew on 32 years of data on more than 94,000 arrests across the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

A doorbell cam video has emerged showing a US father confessing to have killed his son after a heated argument over bringing girls to the house. David De Jesus Contrereas, 52, told his wife about the killing through the camera as she asked: 'Is he alive?

A doorbell cam video has emerged showing a US father confessing to have killed his son after a heated argument over bringing girls to the house. David De Jesus Contrereas, 52, told his wife about the killing through the camera as she asked: 'Is he alive? Is he breathing?' The video was shared even as court proceedings are on about the shooting, which happened in November last year. "He's not breathing. He's dead," the father can be heard saying in the video, while sobbing. "The fighting on the way home was unbearable," David reportedly said in the footage obtained by Local 10 News last week. Also watch | Gravitas | Mother accused of killing her 4-year-old son × The son, identified as Eric, 22, was a student at Florida International University. Eric returned to his family in Miami on November 6 last year. He was reportedly shot dead on November 3, just three days before he was to turn 23. Also read | 21-year-old Ukrainian boy adopted by American couple brutally killed his adoptive parents In the surveillance footage, David's wife asks the reason why the violence unfolded. David responds that the matter escalated 'from one second to the next'. He then mentions his son Eric asking if the girls could sleep over, to which he says no. "It's not your fault. Please call my brother," David could be seen begging his wife in the video. Shortly, he calls the emergency services and confesses "I just shot my son". Eric was found with multiple gunshot wounds. David was arrested in November. He pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder during his arraignment before Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Daryl Trawick, reports in the US media said. He is currently being held without bond at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. The next court hearing date is scheduled for March 11. According to a 2014 study, between 2004-2014 period, American parents have committed filicide, the killing of one's child, about 3,000 times a year. The research drew on 32 years of data on more than 94,000 arrests across the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

'I just shot my son': US dad's confession caught on doorbell cam after argument over girls led to shooting

Sixth member of 'Russian spy ring' in Britain is charged with espionage

President Joe&nbsp;Biden's son&nbsp;Hunter&nbsp;testified Wednesday behind closed doors before Republican lawmakers carrying out an impeachment inquiry against his father, who stands accused of lying about his family's business dealings.&nbsp;

Republicans are racing to inflict damage on the Democratic president ahead of November's election, in which their nominee is likely to be the scandal-plagued Donald Trump.&nbsp;

They have accused&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;-- without offering any conclusive evidence -- of using his influence during his time as Barack Obama's vice president (2009-2017) to help&nbsp;Hunter&nbsp;in his business dealings in China and Ukraine.

The impeachment inquiry -- dismissed by Democrats as a political ploy to hurt&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;in the run-up to the election -- is very unlikely to produce actual criminal charges against the president.&nbsp;

When asked Wednesday about a series of financial transactions which Republicans say directly implicate his father in wrongdoing, the 54-year-old&nbsp;Hunter&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;categorically denied any malfeasance.

"I did not involve my father in my business,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;said in his appearance before the House judiciary and oversight committees, according to his prepared remarks.&nbsp;

"Not while I was a practicing lawyer, not in my investments or transactions domestic or international, not as a board member, and not as an artist. Never."

Republicans have long targeted the troubled younger&nbsp;Biden, a recovering crack cocaine addict, over his alleged shady business dealings -- and attempted to connect those allegations to the sitting president.

But the impeachment probe hit a snag earlier this month when a former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, was arrested and charged with lying and making up false corruption allegations against&nbsp;Hunter.

Smirnov alleged that each of the Bidens received a $5 million bribe from the Ukrainian energy firm Burisma -- on whose board&nbsp;Hunter&nbsp;was serving at the time -- to protect it from an investigation when&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;was vice president.

Federal prosecutors now say Smirnov's claim was fabricated.&nbsp;

The probe of the younger&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;so far has turned up nothing to substantiate the Republican allegations against his family.

It has however resulted in criminal charges against&nbsp;Hunter&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;for tax evasion and for lying about his drug use when he applied for a gun permit.

President Joe Biden's son Hunter testified Wednesday behind closed doors before Republican lawmakers carrying out an impeachment inquiry against his father, who stands accused of lying about his family's business dealings.

President Joe Biden's son Hunter testified Wednesday behind closed doors before Republican lawmakers carrying out an impeachment inquiry against his father, who stands accused of lying about his family's business dealings. Republicans are racing to inflict damage on the Democratic president ahead of November's election, in which their nominee is likely to be the scandal-plagued Donald Trump. They have accused Biden -- without offering any conclusive evidence -- of using his influence during his time as Barack Obama's vice president (2009-2017) to help Hunter in his business dealings in China and Ukraine. The impeachment inquiry -- dismissed by Democrats as a political ploy to hurt Biden in the run-up to the election -- is very unlikely to produce actual criminal charges against the president. When asked Wednesday about a series of financial transactions which Republicans say directly implicate his father in wrongdoing, the 54-year-old Hunter Biden categorically denied any malfeasance. "I did not involve my father in my business," Biden said in his appearance before the House judiciary and oversight committees, according to his prepared remarks. "Not while I was a practicing lawyer, not in my investments or transactions domestic or international, not as a board member, and not as an artist. Never." Republicans have long targeted the troubled younger Biden, a recovering crack cocaine addict, over his alleged shady business dealings -- and attempted to connect those allegations to the sitting president. But the impeachment probe hit a snag earlier this month when a former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, was arrested and charged with lying and making up false corruption allegations against Hunter. Smirnov alleged that each of the Bidens received a $5 million bribe from the Ukrainian energy firm Burisma -- on whose board Hunter was serving at the time -- to protect it from an investigation when Biden was vice president. Federal prosecutors now say Smirnov's claim was fabricated. The probe of the younger Biden so far has turned up nothing to substantiate the Republican allegations against his family. It has however resulted in criminal charges against Hunter Biden for tax evasion and for lying about his drug use when he applied for a gun permit.

Hunter Biden testifies in impeachment probe, says never involved father Joe Biden in his business

The judge who presided over former President Donald Trump's civil fraud trial in New York City received an envelope containing white powder. This occurrence triggered an immediate emergency response from police and fire officials, Law enforcement sources informed ABC News on Feb 28.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-fraud-case-trump-ordered-to-pay-nearly-355-mn-he-is-barred-from-doing-business-in-state-for-3-yrs-691092" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-fraud-case-trump-ordered-to-pay-nearly-355-mn-he-is-barred-from-doing-business-in-state-for-3-yrs-691092&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZ8t3kzs6EAxWkbmwGHQMODMoQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0kTHU74AgV7iFClb87D0ZD" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-fraud-case-trump-ordered-to-pay-nearly-355-mn-he-is-barred-from-doing-business-in-state-for-3-yrs-691092" target="_blank">New York fraud case: Trump ordered to pay nearly $355 mn</a>

Justice Arthur Engoron, who had imposed a nearly half-billion dollar judgment against Trump, was the intended recipient of the envelope.&nbsp;

Two court officers were exposed to the substance, but sources indicate it is not believed to be harmful.

The incident occurred in the operations office of the downtown Manhattan courthouse. Although multiple threats, including a bomb threat at his Long Island residence on the day of closing arguments, were directed at Engoron during and after Trump's civil fraud trial, sources reassured that the judge himself was never in danger.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-court-re-imposes-gag-order-on-donald-trump-664849" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-court-re-imposes-gag-order-on-donald-trump-664849&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZ8t3kzs6EAxWkbmwGHQMODMoQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3_3sqQUGlfPmVMtimzY-pN" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-court-re-imposes-gag-order-on-donald-trump-664849" target="_blank">New York court re-imposes gag order on Donald Trump</a>

Engoron had previously implemented a limited gag order on Trump's statements during the civil fraud trial to safeguard court staff.

As legal proceedings against Trump continue, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is seeking a similar gag order for the upcoming criminal trial, scheduled to commence next month at a courthouse located two blocks away.

Meanwhile, in his most prominent case last week, Engoron prohibited Trump from conducting business in New York for a duration of three years.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-refuses-to-delay-donald-trumps-civil-fraud-trial-640820" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-refuses-to-delay-donald-trumps-civil-fraud-trial-640820&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZ8t3kzs6EAxWkbmwGHQMODMoQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ID4ITtWAJU4ql9aIFrn3g" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-refuses-to-delay-donald-trumps-civil-fraud-trial-640820" target="_blank">US court refuses to delay Donald Trump's civil fraud trial</a>

Additionally, the former president was instructed to compensate $355 million in damages. This legal action stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Democratic New York Attorney General Letitia James, accusing Trump of inflating his assets and engaging in fraudulent activities.

In a comprehensive 92-page judgment, Engoron determined that Trump and the defendants bore responsibility for "persistent and repeated fraud", "falsifying business records", "issuing false financial statements", "conspiracy to falsify false financial statements", "insurance fraud", and "conspiracy to commit insurance fraud".

Within the ruling, Engoron also took the opportunity to critique Trump's conduct during the trial, highlighting that the former president "rarely responded to the questions asked" and frequently indulged in lengthy, irrelevant speeches that extended beyond the trial's scope.

(With inputs from agencies)

The judge who presided over former President Donald Trump's civil fraud trial in New York City received an envelope containing white powder. This occurrence triggered an immediate emergency response from police and fire officials, Law enforcement sources informed ABC News on Feb 28.

The judge who presided over former President Donald Trump's civil fraud trial in New York City received an envelope containing white powder. This occurrence triggered an immediate emergency response from police and fire officials, Law enforcement sources informed ABC News on Feb 28. Also read: New York fraud case: Trump ordered to pay nearly $355 mn Justice Arthur Engoron, who had imposed a nearly half-billion dollar judgment against Trump, was the intended recipient of the envelope. Two court officers were exposed to the substance, but sources indicate it is not believed to be harmful. The incident occurred in the operations office of the downtown Manhattan courthouse. Although multiple threats, including a bomb threat at his Long Island residence on the day of closing arguments, were directed at Engoron during and after Trump's civil fraud trial, sources reassured that the judge himself was never in danger. Also read: New York court re-imposes gag order on Donald Trump Engoron had previously implemented a limited gag order on Trump's statements during the civil fraud trial to safeguard court staff. As legal proceedings against Trump continue, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is seeking a similar gag order for the upcoming criminal trial, scheduled to commence next month at a courthouse located two blocks away. Meanwhile, in his most prominent case last week, Engoron prohibited Trump from conducting business in New York for a duration of three years. Also read: US court refuses to delay Donald Trump's civil fraud trial Additionally, the former president was instructed to compensate $355 million in damages. This legal action stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Democratic New York Attorney General Letitia James, accusing Trump of inflating his assets and engaging in fraudulent activities. In a comprehensive 92-page judgment, Engoron determined that Trump and the defendants bore responsibility for "persistent and repeated fraud", "falsifying business records", "issuing false financial statements", "conspiracy to falsify false financial statements", "insurance fraud", and "conspiracy to commit insurance fraud". Within the ruling, Engoron also took the opportunity to critique Trump's conduct during the trial, highlighting that the former president "rarely responded to the questions asked" and frequently indulged in lengthy, irrelevant speeches that extended beyond the trial's scope. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge overseeing Trump fraud trial receives envelope with suspicious white powder: Sources

Russia's space agency Roscosmos said on Thursday (Feb 29) that it launched a Soyuz rocket into space carrying an Iranian research satellite. The satellite would scan Iran's topography from an orbit of 500 kilometres.

Russia's space agency Roscosmos said on Thursday (Feb 29) that it launched a Soyuz rocket into space carrying an Iranian research satellite. The satellite would scan Iran's topography from an orbit of 500 kilometres. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the launch of Pars-I with the Russian Soyuz-2.1b launcher was broadcast live by the state television in Iran. The satellite was launched from Russia's Vostochny launch base. The satellite weighs 134 kilogrammes and is equipped with three cameras. According to Iran's Telecommunications Minister Issa Zareppur, the satellite was fully domestically developed (in Iran). A dozen satellite launches Telecommunications Minister Zareppur said that Iran has carried out a dozen satellite launches over the past two years. In January, Tehran said that it simultaneously launched three satellites into orbit, nearly a week after the launch of a research satellite by its Revolutionary Guards. Also read | Close call: US spacecraft and Russian satellite avoid major collision The West has warned against such launches, saying that the technology (used in satellites) can be used for ballistic missiles, AFP reported. Iran, meanwhile, has said that it is not seeking nuclear weapons and that the satellite and rocket launches are for civil or defence purposes only. Thursday's launch comes after Russia launched Iran's remote-sensing Khayyam satellite into orbit from Kazakhstan in August 2022, stirring controversy that Moscow might use the satellite to boost its surveillance of military targets in its war in Ukraine. 'Air leak from ISS' Russian segment poses no danger' In other space news, Roscosmos officials on Wednesday acknowledged a continuing air leak from the Russian segment of the International Space Station (ISS) but pointed out that it posed no danger to its crew. Also watch | Russia's nuclear anti-satellite weapon sparks a scare in US amid Ukraine war × The officials said that specialists were monitoring the leak, and the crew "regularly conducts work to locate and fix possible spots of the leak." Earlier, NASA's station project manager Joel Montalbano said that the leak in the Russian segment increased but emphasised it remained small and posed no threat to the crew's safety or vehicle operations. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia launches Soyuz rocket into space carrying Iranian satellite Pars-I

Russian forces destroyed a US-made Abrams tank of the Ukrainian army in the Avdeyevka area. They did so by using the Piranha-10 drone. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian forces destroy US-made Abrams tank Avdeyevka area

North Korea's first spy satellite, which it launched in November 2023, is "alive", the space experts on Tuesday (Feb 20) said after they detected changes in its orbit.

The latest development indicates that Pyongyang is successfully controlling the spacecraft. However, its capabilities remain unknown.

After its launch in the month of November, North Korea claimed that the satellite had captured images of sensitive military and political sites in South Korea, the United States and elsewhere, but has not released any pictures.

Although, the independent radio trackers have not yet detected signals from the satellite.

"But now we can definitely say the satellite is alive," Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, wrote in a blog post.

From Feb 19 to 24, the satellite conducted manoeuvres to raise its perigee from 488 km to 497 km (303.2 miles to 308.8 miles), said Langbroek, citing data from the US–led&nbsp;Combined Space Operations Center.

"The manoeuvre proves that Malligyong-1 is not dead and that North Korea has control over the satellite - something that was disputed," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-intelligence-chief-says-former-politician-sold-out-nation-to-foreign-spy-ring-695039">Australian intelligence chief says former politician sold out nation to foreign spy ring</a>

South Korea's Defence Ministry also released a statement saying that it had assessed that the satellite was in orbit, however, it stated that it would not share any remark on the individual analysis.

On Monday, Defence Minister Shin Won-sik said that the satellite was not showing any signs of performing other tasks or engaging in reconnaissance.

"While we indeed currently cannot be sure whether the satellite does successfully take imagery, it at least performs orbital manoeuvres, so in that sense it is functional," Langbroek wrote of Shin's comments.

He said that the orbit-raising manoeuvre was a surprising development as the presence of an onboard propulsion system was not expected and the satellites that were launched by North Korea previously never manoeuvred.

"Having the capacity to raise the satellite's orbit is a big deal," Langbroek said.

Harvard astronomer and orbital tracker Jonathan McDowell, according to news agency Reuters, said that the satellite appeared to be fixing its position in space as it moved to the same spot where it was shortly after the launch, instead of making a hostile progression towards another country's satellite.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's first spy satellite, which it launched in November 2023, is "alive", the space experts on Tuesday (Feb 20) said after they detected changes in its orbit.

North Korea's first spy satellite, which it launched in November 2023, is "alive", the space experts on Tuesday (Feb 20) said after they detected changes in its orbit. The latest development indicates that Pyongyang is successfully controlling the spacecraft. However, its capabilities remain unknown. After its launch in the month of November, North Korea claimed that the satellite had captured images of sensitive military and political sites in South Korea, the United States and elsewhere, but has not released any pictures. Although, the independent radio trackers have not yet detected signals from the satellite. "But now we can definitely say the satellite is alive," Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, wrote in a blog post. From Feb 19 to 24, the satellite conducted manoeuvres to raise its perigee from 488 km to 497 km (303.2 miles to 308.8 miles), said Langbroek, citing data from the US–led Combined Space Operations Center. "The manoeuvre proves that Malligyong-1 is not dead and that North Korea has control over the satellite - something that was disputed," he said. Also read: Australian intelligence chief says former politician sold out nation to foreign spy ring South Korea's Defence Ministry also released a statement saying that it had assessed that the satellite was in orbit, however, it stated that it would not share any remark on the individual analysis. On Monday, Defence Minister Shin Won-sik said that the satellite was not showing any signs of performing other tasks or engaging in reconnaissance. "While we indeed currently cannot be sure whether the satellite does successfully take imagery, it at least performs orbital manoeuvres, so in that sense it is functional," Langbroek wrote of Shin's comments. He said that the orbit-raising manoeuvre was a surprising development as the presence of an onboard propulsion system was not expected and the satellites that were launched by North Korea previously never manoeuvred. "Having the capacity to raise the satellite's orbit is a big deal," Langbroek said. Harvard astronomer and orbital tracker Jonathan McDowell, according to news agency Reuters, said that the satellite appeared to be fixing its position in space as it moved to the same spot where it was shortly after the launch, instead of making a hostile progression towards another country's satellite. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's first spy satellite is 'alive' and can manoeuvre in space, say experts

Canada fired two scientists working at a high-security infectious disease laboratory in 2021 because they provided confidential information to China, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Officials concluded that the husband and wife team were "a realistic and credible threat to Canada's economic security," the paper said, citing a mass of documents that the government released after a long fight with opposition legislators who had demanded information behind the sackings.

Health Minister Mark Holland, decrying what he called unacceptable security lapses at the lab at the time, said there had been no risk to national security.

Xiangguo Qiu and her husband, Keding Cheng, were escorted out of the National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg in 2019 and their security permits revoked. They were fired in 2021.

Canadian police said in 2019 they were launching a probe into the matter but Wednesday's revelation was the first time that details of the sackings were revealed.

The documents show the Canadian Security Intelligence Service concluded Qiu "had intentionally transferred scientific knowledge and materials to China", the Globe said.

It is not clear whether the couple is still in Canada.

The news is likely to worsen already chilly ties with Beijing, especially since Ottawa has set up an investigation into alleged Chinese interference in domestic Canadian affairs.

The Winnipeg laboratory's work includes research on the most dangerous human and animal pathogens, such as Ebola.

"At no time did national secrets, or information that threatened the security of Canada, leave or enter the lab," Holland told reporters, saying the couple had not been transparent about their dealings with China.

Canada fired two scientists working at a high-security infectious disease laboratory in 2021 because they provided confidential information to China, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Canada fired two scientists working at a high-security infectious disease laboratory in 2021 because they provided confidential information to China, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Wednesday. Officials concluded that the husband and wife team were "a realistic and credible threat to Canada's economic security," the paper said, citing a mass of documents that the government released after a long fight with opposition legislators who had demanded information behind the sackings. Health Minister Mark Holland, decrying what he called unacceptable security lapses at the lab at the time, said there had been no risk to national security. Xiangguo Qiu and her husband, Keding Cheng, were escorted out of the National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg in 2019 and their security permits revoked. They were fired in 2021. Canadian police said in 2019 they were launching a probe into the matter but Wednesday's revelation was the first time that details of the sackings were revealed. The documents show the Canadian Security Intelligence Service concluded Qiu "had intentionally transferred scientific knowledge and materials to China", the Globe said. It is not clear whether the couple is still in Canada. The news is likely to worsen already chilly ties with Beijing, especially since Ottawa has set up an investigation into alleged Chinese interference in domestic Canadian affairs. The Winnipeg laboratory's work includes research on the most dangerous human and animal pathogens, such as Ebola. "At no time did national secrets, or information that threatened the security of Canada, leave or enter the lab," Holland told reporters, saying the couple had not been transparent about their dealings with China.

Canada fired two scientists for sharing information with Beijing, says paper

At least 24 people seeking to reach Europe drowned off northern&nbsp;Senegal&nbsp;when their loaded vessel sank, the governor of the Saint Louis region told AFP on Thursday.

Governor Alioune Badara Samb said 24 bodies had been found since Wednesday after the boat got into difficulty in a particularly dangerous part of the northern coast.

The Saint Louis estuary, where the&nbsp;Senegal&nbsp;River meets the Atlantic Ocean, is notorious for its strong currents and areas of thick mud.

Samb did not say how many people were missing from the vessel, which witnesses said could have been carrying more than 300 people.

A number of survivors managed to reach shore and dispersed among locals on the banks, making it difficult to say exactly how many people were involved, he said.

Mamady Dianfo, a survivor from Casamance in the south, told AFP there were more than 300 people on board when the boat left&nbsp;Senegal&nbsp;a week ago.

Another survivor, Alpha Balde, estimated there were more than 200 passengers.

Dianfo said the vessel reached Morocco, further north up the coast but the captain then said he was lost and could no longer continue the journey.&nbsp;

"We asked him to take us back to&nbsp;Senegal," he said.

Senegal's coast is an increasingly common departure point for Africans fleeing poverty and unemployment and heading to the Canary Islands, their port of entry into Europe.

European Union border agency Frontex says&nbsp;Senegal&nbsp;and Morocco are the most common countries of origin for migrants arriving on the Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic.

Of the more than 6,600 migrants who died or went missing trying to reach Spain last year, the vast majority were lost on the treacherous Atlantic route, according to Spanish NGO Caminando Fronteras.

At least 24 people seeking to reach Europe drowned off northern Senegal when their loaded vessel sank, the governor of the Saint Louis region told AFP on Thursday.

At least 24 people seeking to reach Europe drowned off northern Senegal when their loaded vessel sank, the governor of the Saint Louis region told AFP on Thursday. Governor Alioune Badara Samb said 24 bodies had been found since Wednesday after the boat got into difficulty in a particularly dangerous part of the northern coast. The Saint Louis estuary, where the Senegal River meets the Atlantic Ocean, is notorious for its strong currents and areas of thick mud. Samb did not say how many people were missing from the vessel, which witnesses said could have been carrying more than 300 people. A number of survivors managed to reach shore and dispersed among locals on the banks, making it difficult to say exactly how many people were involved, he said. Mamady Dianfo, a survivor from Casamance in the south, told AFP there were more than 300 people on board when the boat left Senegal a week ago. Another survivor, Alpha Balde, estimated there were more than 200 passengers. Dianfo said the vessel reached Morocco, further north up the coast but the captain then said he was lost and could no longer continue the journey. "We asked him to take us back to Senegal," he said. Senegal's coast is an increasingly common departure point for Africans fleeing poverty and unemployment and heading to the Canary Islands, their port of entry into Europe. European Union border agency Frontex says Senegal and Morocco are the most common countries of origin for migrants arriving on the Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic. Of the more than 6,600 migrants who died or went missing trying to reach Spain last year, the vast majority were lost on the treacherous Atlantic route, according to Spanish NGO Caminando Fronteras.

At least 24 dead in migrant shipwreck off Senegal

Idaho has postponed the execution of convicted serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech, following a failed attempt at lethal injection on Wednesday (Feb 28). This comes as Creech faced the death penalty for the 1981 murder of a fellow prisoner using a battery-filled sock.

A spokesperson for the Idaho Department of Correction, Sanda Kuzeta-Cerimagic, disclosed, "The medical team could not establish an IV line, rendering the execution unable to proceed."

After the failed attempt at killing Creech,&nbsp;the death warrant will "expire", media reports said. Kuzeta-Cerimagic said that the state will now consider the next steps in the case.&nbsp;

Despite three unsuccessful requests for a stay of execution from Creech, the US Supreme Court denied the appeals Wednesday (Feb 28) morning.

This would have marked Idaho's first execution in over a decade, had it been carried out successfully.&nbsp;

Creech's legal team, representing the Federal Defender Services of Idaho, expressed outrage, stating that state officials made ten unsuccessful attempts to access veins in Creech's arms and legs for the lethal injection.

"We are angered but not surprised that the State of Idaho botched the execution of Thomas Creech today. This is what happens when unknown individuals with unknown training are assigned to carry out an execution," the legal team said in a statement.&nbsp;

The Federal Defender Services of Idaho further said, “This is precisely the kind of mishap we warned the State and the Courts could happen when attempting to execute one of the country’s oldest death-row inmates.”

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<h2>Concerns around&nbsp;injection drug</h2>

The legal team criticised Idaho's alleged secrecy surrounding the execution process and questioned the sources of the lethal injection drug, pentobarbital.

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Creech's attorneys argued that the state failed to provide adequate information about the drug's origin, potentially compromising its effectiveness.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sam-bankman-fried-lawyer-requests-lenient-sentence-695033">Sam Bankman-Fried lawyer requests lenient sentence</a>

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Creech, an Ohio native, has been on death row for nearly 50 years, convicted of five murders across three states. Recent investigations linked him to additional unsolved cases, including a 1974 murder in California.

(With inputs from agencies)

Idaho has postponed the execution of convicted serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech, following a failed attempt at lethal injection on Wednesday (Feb 28). This comes as Creech faced the death penalty for the 1981 murder of a fellow prisoner using a battery-filled sock.

Idaho has postponed the execution of convicted serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech, following a failed attempt at lethal injection on Wednesday (Feb 28). This comes as Creech faced the death penalty for the 1981 murder of a fellow prisoner using a battery-filled sock. A spokesperson for the Idaho Department of Correction, Sanda Kuzeta-Cerimagic, disclosed, "The medical team could not establish an IV line, rendering the execution unable to proceed." After the failed attempt at killing Creech, the death warrant will "expire", media reports said. Kuzeta-Cerimagic said that the state will now consider the next steps in the case. Despite three unsuccessful requests for a stay of execution from Creech, the US Supreme Court denied the appeals Wednesday (Feb 28) morning. This would have marked Idaho's first execution in over a decade, had it been carried out successfully. Creech's legal team, representing the Federal Defender Services of Idaho, expressed outrage, stating that state officials made ten unsuccessful attempts to access veins in Creech's arms and legs for the lethal injection. "We are angered but not surprised that the State of Idaho botched the execution of Thomas Creech today. This is what happens when unknown individuals with unknown training are assigned to carry out an execution," the legal team said in a statement. The Federal Defender Services of Idaho further said, “This is precisely the kind of mishap we warned the State and the Courts could happen when attempting to execute one of the country’s oldest death-row inmates.” Also Read | Wendy's promises no surge pricing for burgers amid backlash over CEO's comments Concerns around injection drug The legal team criticised Idaho's alleged secrecy surrounding the execution process and questioned the sources of the lethal injection drug, pentobarbital. Also Read | Electronic Arts announces workforce reduction and office space cutbacks: Report Creech's attorneys argued that the state failed to provide adequate information about the drug's origin, potentially compromising its effectiveness. Watch | Sam Bankman-Fried lawyer requests lenient sentence × Creech, an Ohio native, has been on death row for nearly 50 years, convicted of five murders across three states. Recent investigations linked him to additional unsolved cases, including a 1974 murder in California. (With inputs from agencies)

Idaho: Execution of serial killer Thomas Creech halted after eight failed attempts to find a vein

Idaho’s attempt to execute one of the nation’s longest-serving death row inmates, Thomas Creech, was halted on Wednesday after the medical team could not find a suitable vein for the lethal injection after trying 10 times in both of his arms and legs.

Idaho fails to execute serial killer Thomas Creech after 10 failed attempts

Trinamool Congress Leader Sheikh Shahjahan has been arrested by the West Bengal in the Sandeshkhali violence row. He is accused of sexual atrocities, land grabbing and money laundering. West Bengal's Sandeshkhali has been on the boil for weeks now after several women in the area level sexual assault allegations on the TMC leader and his aides. Two of his associates were arrested earlier this month after protests erupted in the area. Watch to know more!

India: Sandeshkhali accused and TMC neta Shahjahan Sheikh arrested by Bengal police

Self-help author Marianne Williamson, on Wednesday (Feb 28) announced that she is “unsuspending” her presidential campaign and restarting her long-shot Democratic challenge to President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

In a surprising comeback, Williamson, 71, took to X and said that she was re-joining the presidential race after dropping out three weeks ago and announcing the suspension of her primary challenge to Biden.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US: Joe Biden faces protest over Gaza | Biden competes with Trump in Michigan Primary

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<h2>Why is Williamson ‘unsuspending’ her campaign?</h2>

“Hey, I have an important announcement to make. As of today, I am unsuspending my campaign for the presidency of the United States,” Williamson said in a video posted on X. She also went on to admit that she dropped out because “I was losing the horse race.”

The announcement also came after the Michigan primary election results where Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump easily won their respective primaries.&nbsp;

Notably, Williamson, despite dropping out of the race, edged out Representative Dean Phillips (Democrat-Minnesota) and secured third place in the Michigan Democratic primary.&nbsp;

She received around three per cent of the votes when compared to Phillips’ 2.7 per cent. Whereas Biden secured 81.1 per cent of the votes.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-michigan-primary-win-soured-by-unexpected-uncommitted-votes-694634">Biden's Michigan primary win soured by tens of thousands of 'uncommitted' votes in protest over Gaza war</a> 
 
“Right now we have a fascist standing at the door and everybody’s all upset about it,” said Williamson, on X presumably referring to the former president.&nbsp;

She also went on to criticise Biden’s economic policies at length and how they only benefit a small part of the US population and argued that “we need a president” who will eliminate student loan debt, provide Medicare for all, and so on.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Juggernaut of dark vision’</h2>

In her video, the writer and progressive Democrat said that people tell her “you’re delusional”.&nbsp;

“I’ll tell you what’s delusional…closing our eyes and crossing our fingers and just hoping that somehow Biden and Harris will be able to beat that juggernaut of dark, dark vision,” Williamson said referring to Trump.&nbsp;

She also called for a ceasefire in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

The impact of the Biden administration’s continued support for Israel was also reflected in the Michigan Democratic primary results as a section of angry Democrat voters (more than 13 per cent) marked their ballots as “uncommitted”.&nbsp;

According to the Michigan Department of State, selecting ‘uncommitted’ implies that the voter is exercising a party vote, but not committed to the candidates on the ballot.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is&nbsp;Marianne Williamson?</h2>

Marianne Williamson&nbsp;launched her second shot at the presidency nearly a year ago and became the first&nbsp;major Democrat to Biden for the&nbsp;party’s nomination in 2024.&nbsp;

In 2020, she backed out of the race for the White House&nbsp;in early January of that year after not gaining enough&nbsp;traction during the primaries and endorsed Senator&nbsp;Bernie Sanders.&nbsp;

Williamson, who is reportedly&nbsp;a&nbsp;spiritual adviser to Oprah Winfrey, came under fire last year due to her "abusive" treatment of her&nbsp;2020 campaign staff.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/israel-hamas-war-to-stop-the-gaza-bloodbath-stop-sending-israel-arms-694651">Israel-Hamas war: To stop the Gaza bloodbath, stop sending Israel arms</a>

The 71-year-old has built a career preaching love and forgiveness but, according to media reports, her&nbsp;public persona contradicts her&nbsp;private behaviour.&nbsp;

“It would be foaming, spitting, uncontrollable rage,” a former staffer told Politico last year speaking about&nbsp;Williamson's behaviour&nbsp;during her 2020 presidential campaign.&nbsp;“It was traumatic. And the experience, in the end, was terrifying.” 
 
Williamson grew up in Houston, Texas. She attended Pomona College in California but dropped out after two years and moved to New York to&nbsp;pursue a career in singing.&nbsp;

In the early&nbsp;1980s, she moved&nbsp;to Los Angeles. It was around that time that she&nbsp;became involved in awareness and advocacy efforts for people with HIV and AIDS.&nbsp;

Williamson founded two organisations,&nbsp;the Los Angeles and Manhattan Centers for Living, and the Angel Food Project,&nbsp;to support people living with AIDS. She is also&nbsp;the author of 12 books, out of which four have&nbsp;made The New York Times bestseller list.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Self-help author Marianne Williamson, on Wednesday (Feb 28) announced that she is “unsuspending” her presidential campaign and restarting her long-shot Democratic challenge to President Joe Biden.

Self-help author Marianne Williamson, on Wednesday (Feb 28) announced that she is “unsuspending” her presidential campaign and restarting her long-shot Democratic challenge to President Joe Biden. In a surprising comeback, Williamson, 71, took to X and said that she was re-joining the presidential race after dropping out three weeks ago and announcing the suspension of her primary challenge to Biden. WATCH | US: Joe Biden faces protest over Gaza | Biden competes with Trump in Michigan Primary Why is Williamson ‘unsuspending’ her campaign? “Hey, I have an important announcement to make. As of today, I am unsuspending my campaign for the presidency of the United States,” Williamson said in a video posted on X. She also went on to admit that she dropped out because “I was losing the horse race.” The announcement also came after the Michigan primary election results where Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump easily won their respective primaries. Notably, Williamson, despite dropping out of the race, edged out Representative Dean Phillips (Democrat-Minnesota) and secured third place in the Michigan Democratic primary. She received around three per cent of the votes when compared to Phillips’ 2.7 per cent. Whereas Biden secured 81.1 per cent of the votes. Also Read | Biden's Michigan primary win soured by tens of thousands of 'uncommitted' votes in protest over Gaza war “Right now we have a fascist standing at the door and everybody’s all upset about it,” said Williamson, on X presumably referring to the former president. She also went on to criticise Biden’s economic policies at length and how they only benefit a small part of the US population and argued that “we need a president” who will eliminate student loan debt, provide Medicare for all, and so on. ‘Juggernaut of dark vision’ In her video, the writer and progressive Democrat said that people tell her “you’re delusional”. “I’ll tell you what’s delusional…closing our eyes and crossing our fingers and just hoping that somehow Biden and Harris will be able to beat that juggernaut of dark, dark vision,” Williamson said referring to Trump. She also called for a ceasefire in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The impact of the Biden administration’s continued support for Israel was also reflected in the Michigan Democratic primary results as a section of angry Democrat voters (more than 13 per cent) marked their ballots as “uncommitted”. According to the Michigan Department of State, selecting ‘uncommitted’ implies that the voter is exercising a party vote, but not committed to the candidates on the ballot. Who is Marianne Williamson? Marianne Williamson launched her second shot at the presidency nearly a year ago and became the first major Democrat to Biden for the party’s nomination in 2024. In 2020, she backed out of the race for the White House in early January of that year after not gaining enough traction during the primaries and endorsed Senator Bernie Sanders. Williamson, who is reportedly a spiritual adviser to Oprah Winfrey, came under fire last year due to her "abusive" treatment of her 2020 campaign staff. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: To stop the Gaza bloodbath, stop sending Israel arms The 71-year-old has built a career preaching love and forgiveness but, according to media reports, her public persona contradicts her private behaviour. “It would be foaming, spitting, uncontrollable rage,” a former staffer told Politico last year speaking about Williamson's behaviour during her 2020 presidential campaign. “It was traumatic. And the experience, in the end, was terrifying.” Williamson grew up in Houston, Texas. She attended Pomona College in California but dropped out after two years and moved to New York to pursue a career in singing. In the early 1980s, she moved to Los Angeles. It was around that time that she became involved in awareness and advocacy efforts for people with HIV and AIDS. Williamson founded two organisations, the Los Angeles and Manhattan Centers for Living, and the Angel Food Project, to support people living with AIDS. She is also the author of 12 books, out of which four have made The New York Times bestseller list. (With inputs from agencies)

Marianne Williamson: Democratic long-shot ‘unsuspends’ US presidential election campaign

Ukraine needs $3 bln in financial aid per month to survive the war in 2024. This was shared by the Ukrainian Finance Minister. Till now, Ukraine has received more than $73 billion in financial aid from its western partners but now the inflow of funds and weapons has slowed down. What are Ukraine's options? Are European nations in danger as Russia gains ground in Ukraine? Watch WION's Shivan Chanana have an in-depth discussion with Dr. Gilbert Doctorow, international affairs analyst, author, and historian from Brussels.

Ukraine game over? Ukraine eeds $3Bn per month in 2024, What are its options?

United States President Joe Biden said that his annual medical examination ended well on Wednesday (Feb 28) as he joked about how doctors felt that he looked too young.&nbsp;

This came at a time when there has been increasing scrutiny over his old age as he plans to fight the November elections.

The White House informed that a summary of the test results will be released by the Walter Reed military medical facility outside Washington later.&nbsp;

"They think I look too young," Biden said to the reporters when speaking about the medical exam.

"No, there is nothing different from last year," when the exam results declared him fit for duty, added Biden, while speaking at the White House.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-undergoes-last-yearly-medical-examination-before-novembers-election-694935">Biden undergoes last yearly medical examination before November's election</a>

Biden took a helicopter ride to reach the medical centre where he spent just over two and a half hours. He exited the medical centre donning sunglasses and saluted the naval officers before leaving in his motorcade.

The White House claimed that Biden's longtime doctor, Kevin O'Connor was "happy with how everything went", and added that the assessment included a team of 20 physicians.

<h2>No&nbsp;cognitive test for Biden</h2>

Defending Biden for not taking a cognitive test, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that his doctors assessed that the president is not required to go through one.

"The president passes&nbsp;a cognitive test every day," said Jean-Pierre while speaking to the reporters and referring to the domestic and international political issues he deals with. "This is a very rigorous job," he said.

The routine medical examination of Biden took place at a time when concerns had been mounting over the leader's age.

Watch:&nbsp;US: 81-year-old Joe Biden 'fit for job' says White House doctor; age a top worry for voters

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The issue came under the spotlight after Biden was portrayed as elderly and forgetful in a special counsel report which gave a major boost to his Republican rivals.

In the investigation, he was cleared of illegally retaining classified documents in his garage and home, but added that he would come across to a jury as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory."

In a fierce counterattack to the investigation in a press conference at the White House, Biden said that his memory was "fine" and slammed the special counsel for saying that he does not remember when his son Beau died of cancer.

Meanwhile, speaking in an interview with late-night TV comic Seth Meyers on Monday (Feb 26), Biden claimed that he was a better bet than "the other guy," who is just four years younger than him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden said that his annual medical examination ended well on Wednesday (Feb 28) as he joked about how doctors felt that he looked too young.

United States President Joe Biden said that his annual medical examination ended well on Wednesday (Feb 28) as he joked about how doctors felt that he looked too young. This came at a time when there has been increasing scrutiny over his old age as he plans to fight the November elections. The White House informed that a summary of the test results will be released by the Walter Reed military medical facility outside Washington later. "They think I look too young," Biden said to the reporters when speaking about the medical exam. "No, there is nothing different from last year," when the exam results declared him fit for duty, added Biden, while speaking at the White House. Also Read: Biden undergoes last yearly medical examination before November's election Biden took a helicopter ride to reach the medical centre where he spent just over two and a half hours. He exited the medical centre donning sunglasses and saluted the naval officers before leaving in his motorcade. The White House claimed that Biden's longtime doctor, Kevin O'Connor was "happy with how everything went", and added that the assessment included a team of 20 physicians. No cognitive test for Biden Defending Biden for not taking a cognitive test, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that his doctors assessed that the president is not required to go through one. "The president passes a cognitive test every day," said Jean-Pierre while speaking to the reporters and referring to the domestic and international political issues he deals with. "This is a very rigorous job," he said. The routine medical examination of Biden took place at a time when concerns had been mounting over the leader's age. Watch: US: 81-year-old Joe Biden 'fit for job' says White House doctor; age a top worry for voters The issue came under the spotlight after Biden was portrayed as elderly and forgetful in a special counsel report which gave a major boost to his Republican rivals. In the investigation, he was cleared of illegally retaining classified documents in his garage and home, but added that he would come across to a jury as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." In a fierce counterattack to the investigation in a press conference at the White House, Biden said that his memory was "fine" and slammed the special counsel for saying that he does not remember when his son Beau died of cancer. Meanwhile, speaking in an interview with late-night TV comic Seth Meyers on Monday (Feb 26), Biden claimed that he was a better bet than "the other guy," who is just four years younger than him. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden jokes 'doctors think I look too young,' after medical exam declares him 'fit for duty'

The southern US state of Texas on Wednesday (Feb 28) executed Ivan Cantu, convicted of fatally&nbsp;shooting his cousin, James Mosqueda and his cousin's 22-year-old girlfriend, Amy Kitchen, in November 2000.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), Cantu, 50, was put to death by using a lethal injection. The time of death recorded was 6:47 pm local time. Despite concerns over the method of execution, a TDCJ spokesperson said there were no issues with the injection, which took about 21 minutes.&nbsp;

Till his execution, Cantu maintained that he was innocent. In his final speech, he addressed the concerned families and pleaded his case.&nbsp;

“I’d like to address the Kitchens and Mosqueda families. I want you to know that I never killed James and Amy. And if I did, if I knew who did, you would’ve been the first to know any information I would’ve had that would’ve helped to bring justice to James and Amy,"&nbsp;Cantu said.&nbsp;

The prosecutors, however, have claimed that Cantu killed Mosqueda, who dealt illegal drugs, and Kitchen, as he attempted to steal a stash of drugs (cocaine, marijuana) and cash from his cousin's north Dallas home.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-alabama-seeks-to-perform-second-execution-using-nitrogen-hypoxia-692901">Watch |&nbsp;US: Alabama seeks to perform second execution using Nitrogen Hypoxia</a>

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<h2>Cantu's claims of innocence&nbsp;</h2>

According to court documents submitted over the years, Cantu's&nbsp;attorney contested this claim. They said false testimony was presented at trial by the state’s key witnesses, including one&nbsp;who&nbsp;has since recanted.

The attorneys also contended a newly uncovered evidence supporting&nbsp;Cantu's version that Mosqueda was targeted and killed by rivals who also threatened Cantu over his cousin’s alleged debts.&nbsp;

Among those expressing doubts about Cantu's conviction was the foreman of the jury that presided over his 2001 trial.

Jeff Calhoun, in an article in the Austin American-Statesman, asked for the execution to be delayed pending further investigation.

A MoveOn.org petition had urged Texas Governor Greg Abbott to halt the execution. The petition even garnered nearly 150,000 signatures but ultimately proved insufficient.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-makes-history-with-first-execution-using-nitrogen-gas-683713">Also read | In a first, Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed using nitrogen gas</a>

Notably, capital punishment is abolished in 23 US states while six states viz.&nbsp;Arizona, California, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, have put a hold on its use.

Cantu's execution comes a month after Alabama inmate Kenneth Smith was executed using nitrogen gas for the first time in US history.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The southern US state of Texas on Wednesday (Feb 28) executed Ivan Cantu, convicted of fatally shooting his cousin, James Mosqueda and his cousin's 22-year-old girlfriend, Amy Kitchen, in November 2000.

The southern US state of Texas on Wednesday (Feb 28) executed Ivan Cantu, convicted of fatally shooting his cousin, James Mosqueda and his cousin's 22-year-old girlfriend, Amy Kitchen, in November 2000. According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), Cantu, 50, was put to death by using a lethal injection. The time of death recorded was 6:47 pm local time. Despite concerns over the method of execution, a TDCJ spokesperson said there were no issues with the injection, which took about 21 minutes. Till his execution, Cantu maintained that he was innocent. In his final speech, he addressed the concerned families and pleaded his case. “I’d like to address the Kitchens and Mosqueda families. I want you to know that I never killed James and Amy. And if I did, if I knew who did, you would’ve been the first to know any information I would’ve had that would’ve helped to bring justice to James and Amy," Cantu said. The prosecutors, however, have claimed that Cantu killed Mosqueda, who dealt illegal drugs, and Kitchen, as he attempted to steal a stash of drugs (cocaine, marijuana) and cash from his cousin's north Dallas home. Watch | US: Alabama seeks to perform second execution using Nitrogen Hypoxia × Cantu's claims of innocence According to court documents submitted over the years, Cantu's attorney contested this claim. They said false testimony was presented at trial by the state’s key witnesses, including one who has since recanted. The attorneys also contended a newly uncovered evidence supporting Cantu's version that Mosqueda was targeted and killed by rivals who also threatened Cantu over his cousin’s alleged debts. Among those expressing doubts about Cantu's conviction was the foreman of the jury that presided over his 2001 trial. Jeff Calhoun, in an article in the Austin American-Statesman, asked for the execution to be delayed pending further investigation. A MoveOn.org petition had urged Texas Governor Greg Abbott to halt the execution. The petition even garnered nearly 150,000 signatures but ultimately proved insufficient. Also read | In a first, Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed using nitrogen gas Notably, capital punishment is abolished in 23 US states while six states viz. Arizona, California, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, have put a hold on its use. Cantu's execution comes a month after Alabama inmate Kenneth Smith was executed using nitrogen gas for the first time in US history. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Texas inmate Ivan Cantu, executed for double murder?

The Biden administration is "doing everything" it can to improve the H-1B visa process, the White House said on Wednesday (Feb 29) amid worries over delays in the visas issued in large numbers by IT firms, mainly from India.

A White House spokesperson also said that the backlog in 'green card' for permanent residency, and other issues related to the country's legal immigration system, were all being worked upon.

"One of the steps, if we look at the H-1B visa process, we have taken action to improve that and the process and backlog for lawful permanent residents (green card) who are eligible to become US citizens," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at her daily news conference.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa which permits companies based out of the United States to hire foreign nationals for specialised jobs that require advanced technical or theoretical training. A large number of these visas are lapped up every year by big Indian tech firms.

Jean-Pierre informed that efforts were being made to streamline the visa process, responding to concerns raised by a section of Indian Americans who were sceptical of Biden's efforts addressing the woes of legal immigrants as the US president was doing for illegal immigrants.

Biden on Thursday (Feb 29) will head to the southern border with Mexico in Texas.

"Just last month, for example, as a part of our efforts to strengthen the integrity of our immigration system and reduce the potential for fraud, the DHS [Department of Homeland Security] published a final rule relating to H-1B visa," Jean-Pierre said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-massive-hike-in-h-1b-and-other-visa-fees-heres-all-you-need-to-know-686186">Also read:&nbsp;US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know</a>

"So, the changes promote fairer and more equitable outcomes and, so, we will continue our work to improve the system within our authorities and that has certainly been a priority," she said.

The administration takes that "very seriously" and is continuing to do everything that it can to improve the visa process, she added.

<h2>USCIS announces launch of myUSCIS for H1-B registrations and petitions</h2>

Meanwhile, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will come up with myUSCIS organisational accounts that will permit numerous people within an organisation, along with their legal representatives, to team up and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions and any associated Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service.

A new organisational account would be required to take part in the H-1B Electronic Registration Process starting in March 2024, the USCIS said.

"We are working expeditiously to address any technical issues that may arise for legal representatives whose accounts migrated when they logged into their online account on or after February 14, 2024, including impacts on cases other than H-1B filings," it said.

The initial registration period for FY 2025 H-1B cap will begin at noon Eastern on March 6, and run through noon Eastern on March 22.

"In March, we will launch online filing of Form I-129 and associated Form I-907 for non-cap H-1B petitions. On April 1, USCIS will begin accepting online filing for H-1B cap petitions and associated Forms I-907 for petitioners whose registrations have been selected,” the federal agency said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Biden administration is "doing everything" it can to improve the H-1B visa process, the White House said on Wednesday (Feb 29) amid worries over delays in the visas issued in large numbers by IT firms, mainly from India.

The Biden administration is "doing everything" it can to improve the H-1B visa process, the White House said on Wednesday (Feb 29) amid worries over delays in the visas issued in large numbers by IT firms, mainly from India. A White House spokesperson also said that the backlog in 'green card' for permanent residency, and other issues related to the country's legal immigration system, were all being worked upon. "One of the steps, if we look at the H-1B visa process, we have taken action to improve that and the process and backlog for lawful permanent residents (green card) who are eligible to become US citizens," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at her daily news conference. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa which permits companies based out of the United States to hire foreign nationals for specialised jobs that require advanced technical or theoretical training. A large number of these visas are lapped up every year by big Indian tech firms. Jean-Pierre informed that efforts were being made to streamline the visa process, responding to concerns raised by a section of Indian Americans who were sceptical of Biden's efforts addressing the woes of legal immigrants as the US president was doing for illegal immigrants. Biden on Thursday (Feb 29) will head to the southern border with Mexico in Texas. "Just last month, for example, as a part of our efforts to strengthen the integrity of our immigration system and reduce the potential for fraud, the DHS [Department of Homeland Security] published a final rule relating to H-1B visa," Jean-Pierre said. Also read: US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know "So, the changes promote fairer and more equitable outcomes and, so, we will continue our work to improve the system within our authorities and that has certainly been a priority," she said. The administration takes that "very seriously" and is continuing to do everything that it can to improve the visa process, she added. USCIS announces launch of myUSCIS for H1-B registrations and petitions Meanwhile, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will come up with myUSCIS organisational accounts that will permit numerous people within an organisation, along with their legal representatives, to team up and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions and any associated Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service. A new organisational account would be required to take part in the H-1B Electronic Registration Process starting in March 2024, the USCIS said. "We are working expeditiously to address any technical issues that may arise for legal representatives whose accounts migrated when they logged into their online account on or after February 14, 2024, including impacts on cases other than H-1B filings," it said. The initial registration period for FY 2025 H-1B cap will begin at noon Eastern on March 6, and run through noon Eastern on March 22. "In March, we will launch online filing of Form I-129 and associated Form I-907 for non-cap H-1B petitions. On April 1, USCIS will begin accepting online filing for H-1B cap petitions and associated Forms I-907 for petitioners whose registrations have been selected,” the federal agency said. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden doing everything to improve H-1B visa process, says White House amid delay worries

Mike Burgess, the director-general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), said on Wednesday (Feb 28) that a former politician sold out the country to a foreign spy ring.

Mike Burgess, the director-general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), said on Wednesday (Feb 28) that a former politician sold out the country to a foreign spy ring. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Burgess said in Canberra that the ASIO confronted the spy ring to let them know that their cover had been blown. Burgess said he declassified the details of the operation that used professional networking platforms, email and social media to target citizens. "This politician sold out their country, party and former colleagues to advance the interests of the foreign regime. At one point, the former politician even proposed bringing a prime minister's family member into the spies' orbit," he said. 'The A-Team' Burgess did not reveal the country that was a part of the spy ring. Neither was the politician identified. The intelligence chief added that the foreign country successfully cultivated and recruited a former Australian politician several years ago. The politician would not be charged as they were no longer active in service. Also read | Australia's inflation remains at two-year low in January, dampening rate hike expectations Referring to the foreign spies as the "A Team," Burgess said in his Wednesday speech that the spies tried to attract Australians with national security information by offering them consulting roles. Australian political figures and academics attending a conference abroad were met by "spies in disguise," he said. The intelligence chief added that one academic at the conference gave the foreign spies information about Australia's national security and defence priorities, while an aspiring politician provided political information. "ASIO disrupted this scheme and confronted the Australians involved. While some were unwitting, others knew they were working for a foreign intelligence service," he said. Also watch | Australia intelligence chief exposes foreign spy operation × Burgess highlighted that the ASIO severed links between Australians and the foreign intelligence service, and several individuals should be grateful that the espionage and foreign interference laws were not retrospective. He further said that the ASIO confronted the A-Team directly in late 2023 in an online encounter, and told it to stop. "We want the A-team to know its cover is blown," he said. Spy chief faces calls to name former politician With the revelation of this news, Burgess faced calls to name the former politician, Reuters reported. “Mr Burgess, having gone this far, must name that person rather than potentially smear everyone who has served their country,” former Liberal party politician Joe Hockey said in a post on X. Mike Burgess from ASIO has publicly referred in @smh to an unnamed politician as the agent of a foreign country. Mr Burgess, having gone this far, must name that person rather than potentially smear everyone who has served their country. — Joe Hockey (@JoeHockey) February 28, 2024 × Speaking to a local radio station, opposition leader Peter Dutton said that if the intelligence chief did not identify the politician, "then there is a cloud hanging over everybody else." Meanwhile, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles told reporters in Canberra that he was not aware of the details of the case, but added he respected ASIO’s decision to keep the name confidential. “What's important here to understand is, firstly, that there is a threat of foreign espionage in this country, that those of us who are involved in public administration, including politicians, obviously, need to be completely vigilant about that,” Defence Minister Marles said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian intelligence chief says former politician sold out nation to foreign spy ring

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