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<p>A massive 500kg (1,102lb) German World War Two bomb discovered in a garden on St Michael Avenue triggered a major evacuation in Plymouth, causing significant disruption for four days. Authorities closed roads, halted rail and bus services, and implemented safety measures as the bomb was transported 1.4 miles (2.3km) through the city. After days of&nbsp;planning and disruption, the unexploded bomb was safely detonated at sea beyond the breakwater on Friday (Feb 23), marking the end of a period of upheaval for thousands of Plymouth residents.</p>

<p>The disposal operation involved a temporary 300m (984ft) cordon and a military convoy transporting the bomb to the Torpoint Ferry slipway.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So small and slow, am utterly impressed by the bravery of those onboard right now… ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/Plymouth_Live?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Plymouth_Live</a>⁩ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/plymouthbomb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#plymouthbomb</a> <a href="https://t.co/htfaXMupw8">pic.twitter.com/htfaXMupw8</a></p>
— MCreek (@CmaCreek) <a href="https://twitter.com/CmaCreek/status/1761084507996794954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>A big relief for residents</strong></h2>

<p>Residents within the cordon area, comprising 10,320 people and 4,300 properties, faced anxious moments as they were asked to leave their homes as a precautionary measure.</p>

<p>Vicky Brotherton, who spoke to the BBC, expressed relief upon returning home after spending four days in Cornwall, thanking all involved in ensuring a safe resolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The evacuation and disposal efforts left a lasting impact on the local community, with residents describing the experience as "very stressful." Despite the challenges, Plymouth City Council leader Tudor Evans commended the city's resilient spirit, drawing parallels to wartime camaraderie and unity.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-reclaim-pacific-airfield-from-where-atomic-bombings-were-launched-672556">Also read |&nbsp;US plans to reclaim Pacific airfield from where atom bombings were launched</a></p>

<p>Defence Secretary Grant Shapps lauded the bravery and dedication of personnel involved in the operation, shedding light on&nbsp;their tireless efforts to safeguard public safety.</p>

<p>In a statement on Friday, he said: "I would like to express my thanks to all our personnel... who worked both night and day this week to keep the public safe and minimise the risk of damage."</p>

<p>"The success of this operation is testament to the level of skill and expertise across our Armed Forces, as well as the bravery and fortitude of our personnel when faced with high-risk situations and working under extreme pressure,"&nbsp;Shapps added.</p>

<p>The bomb's discovery evoked memories of Plymouth's wartime history, with staff at The Box museum tracing its origins to one of the heaviest bombing nights during World War II&nbsp;in April 1941. According to historical records, the city endured 1,362 bomb explosions during the war.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Italy's military police unveil robot dog</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italys-military-police-unveil-robot-dog-692038/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A massive 500kg (1,102lb) German World War Two bomb discovered in a garden on St Michael Avenue triggered a major evacuation in Plymouth, causing significant disruption for four days.

A massive 500kg (1,102lb) German World War Two bomb discovered in a garden on St Michael Avenue triggered a major evacuation in Plymouth, causing significant disruption for four days. Authorities closed roads, halted rail and bus services, and implemented safety measures as the bomb was transported 1.4 miles (2.3km) through the city. After days of planning and disruption, the unexploded bomb was safely detonated at sea beyond the breakwater on Friday (Feb 23), marking the end of a period of upheaval for thousands of Plymouth residents. The disposal operation involved a temporary 300m (984ft) cordon and a military convoy transporting the bomb to the Torpoint Ferry slipway. So small and slow, am utterly impressed by the bravery of those onboard right now… ⁦@Plymouth_Live⁩ #plymouthbomb pic.twitter.com/htfaXMupw8 — MCreek (@CmaCreek) February 23, 2024 × A big relief for residents Residents within the cordon area, comprising 10,320 people and 4,300 properties, faced anxious moments as they were asked to leave their homes as a precautionary measure. Vicky Brotherton, who spoke to the BBC, expressed relief upon returning home after spending four days in Cornwall, thanking all involved in ensuring a safe resolution. The evacuation and disposal efforts left a lasting impact on the local community, with residents describing the experience as "very stressful." Despite the challenges, Plymouth City Council leader Tudor Evans commended the city's resilient spirit, drawing parallels to wartime camaraderie and unity. Also read | US plans to reclaim Pacific airfield from where atom bombings were launched Defence Secretary Grant Shapps lauded the bravery and dedication of personnel involved in the operation, shedding light on their tireless efforts to safeguard public safety. In a statement on Friday, he said: "I would like to express my thanks to all our personnel... who worked both night and day this week to keep the public safe and minimise the risk of damage." "The success of this operation is testament to the level of skill and expertise across our Armed Forces, as well as the bravery and fortitude of our personnel when faced with high-risk situations and working under extreme pressure," Shapps added. The bomb's discovery evoked memories of Plymouth's wartime history, with staff at The Box museum tracing its origins to one of the heaviest bombing nights during World War II in April 1941. According to historical records, the city endured 1,362 bomb explosions during the war. Also watch | Italy's military police unveil robot dog (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Plymouth WWII bomb discovered in garden safely detonated at sea

<p>Authorities in eastern China's Nanjing reported at least 15 deaths and 44 injuries resulting from a fire that ravaged a residential building. According to officials speaking at a press conference on Saturday (Feb 24), the fire erupted early Friday morning (Feb 23), believed to have originated on the building's ground floor where electric bicycles were kept.</p>

<p>The incident occurred in Nanjing's Yuhuatai district, situated approximately 260 kilometres&nbsp;northwest of Shanghai. By 6:00 am, firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, concluding search and rescue efforts by 2:00 pm Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">15 people were killed and 44 others were injured in a blaze at Block 6 of Mingshang Xiyuan (明尚西苑) in Yuhuatai District (雨花台区), Nanjing, Jiangsu, early Fri morning (Feb 23).<br />
<br />
A preliminary investigation found that the fire erupted on the building's 1st floor, where… <a href="https://t.co/baARowE5Mc">pic.twitter.com/baARowE5Mc</a></p>
— Byron Wan (@Byron_Wan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Byron_Wan/status/1761213230561845615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Emergency services mobilised twenty-five fire trucks to combat the fire, as shown in footage circulated on Chinese social media platforms.</p>

<p>Videos captured the skyscraper engulfed in flames, emitting thick black smoke into the night sky. Additional visuals showed the ferocity of the blaze, with towering flames consuming multiple floors of the building amidst the backdrop of emergency vehicle lights.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-hid-covid-19-details-weeks-before-it-became-pandemic-us-documents-show-681102">Also read |&nbsp;China knew, but hid COVID-19 details weeks before it became pandemic, US documents show</a></p>

<h2><strong>Casualties and critical conditions</strong></h2>

<p>The 44 injured individuals were immediately&nbsp;transported to hospitals for treatment, with officials noting one individual in critical condition and another seriously injured. During a press conference, Nanjing's mayor, Chen Zhichang, extended condolences and apologies to the families of the victims.</p>

<p>The fire in Nanjing adds to a concerning pattern of deadly accidents in China, often attributed to lax safety standards and inadequate enforcement.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Canada headed for another brutal fire season</strong></p>

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<p>President Xi Jinping recently had spoken about&nbsp;the need for comprehensive action to address these issues. Recent incidents, including fatal fires in Xinyu and Henan, also bring out&nbsp;the urgent need for improved safety measures.</p>

<p>In January, a fire triggered by unauthorised fire usage in a store resulted in numerous casualties, followed by a tragic dormitory fire in Henan province. Further incidents, such as the Shanxi coal company office fire and the northwest barbecue restaurant explosion, highlight the ongoing challenges in workplace safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Authorities in eastern China's Nanjing reported at least 15 deaths and 44 injuries resulting from a fire that ravaged a residential building. According to officials speaking at a press conference on Saturday (Feb 24), the fire erupted early Friday morning (Feb 23), believed to have originated on the building's ground floor where electric bicycles were kept.

Authorities in eastern China's Nanjing reported at least 15 deaths and 44 injuries resulting from a fire that ravaged a residential building. According to officials speaking at a press conference on Saturday (Feb 24), the fire erupted early Friday morning (Feb 23), believed to have originated on the building's ground floor where electric bicycles were kept. The incident occurred in Nanjing's Yuhuatai district, situated approximately 260 kilometres northwest of Shanghai. By 6:00 am, firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, concluding search and rescue efforts by 2:00 pm Friday. Watch the video here: 15 people were killed and 44 others were injured in a blaze at Block 6 of Mingshang Xiyuan (明尚西苑) in Yuhuatai District (雨花台区), Nanjing, Jiangsu, early Fri morning (Feb 23). A preliminary investigation found that the fire erupted on the building's 1st floor, where… pic.twitter.com/baARowE5Mc — Byron Wan (@Byron_Wan) February 24, 2024 × Emergency services mobilised twenty-five fire trucks to combat the fire, as shown in footage circulated on Chinese social media platforms. Videos captured the skyscraper engulfed in flames, emitting thick black smoke into the night sky. Additional visuals showed the ferocity of the blaze, with towering flames consuming multiple floors of the building amidst the backdrop of emergency vehicle lights. Also read | China knew, but hid COVID-19 details weeks before it became pandemic, US documents show Casualties and critical conditions The 44 injured individuals were immediately transported to hospitals for treatment, with officials noting one individual in critical condition and another seriously injured. During a press conference, Nanjing's mayor, Chen Zhichang, extended condolences and apologies to the families of the victims. The fire in Nanjing adds to a concerning pattern of deadly accidents in China, often attributed to lax safety standards and inadequate enforcement. Also watch | Canada headed for another brutal fire season President Xi Jinping recently had spoken about the need for comprehensive action to address these issues. Recent incidents, including fatal fires in Xinyu and Henan, also bring out the urgent need for improved safety measures. In January, a fire triggered by unauthorised fire usage in a store resulted in numerous casualties, followed by a tragic dormitory fire in Henan province. Further incidents, such as the Shanxi coal company office fire and the northwest barbecue restaurant explosion, highlight the ongoing challenges in workplace safety. (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO: Residential building catches fire in eastern China's Nanjing; at least 15 dead

The moon lander dubbed Odysseus is "alive and well" but resting on its side a day after its white-knuckle touchdown as the first private spacecraft ever to reach the lunar surface, and the first from the U.S. since 1972, the company behind the vehicle said on Friday.

Moon lander Odysseus tipped sideways on lunar surface but 'alive and well'

India has an extensive bilateral relationship with Ukraine, spanning all spheres of cooperation. India was one of the first countries to recognize Ukraine. The government of India recognized the Republic of Ukraine as a sovereign country in December 1991 and established diplomatic relations in January 1992. Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India and more.

Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India

<p>Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once again branded Israel's military offensive in the Gaza Strip a "genocide" at an event in Rio de Janeiro on Friday (Feb 23). He also called for a "free and sovereign Palestinian state" during the event.</p>

<p>"I am in favour of the creation of a free and sovereign Palestinian state," Lula said.</p>

<p>"What…Israel is doing is not a war, it is genocide because it is killing women and children," he said.</p>

<p>"It is a genocide. Thousands of children are dead and thousands are missing. Soldiers are not dying. Women and children are dying at the hospital," he said. "If that's not genocide, I don't know what genocide is," he added.</p>

<p>The Brazilian president's remarks come amid a diplomatic row between the South American nation and Israel after Lula controversially compared its campaign in Gaza to the Holocaust.</p>

<p>Drawing a comparison between Israeli military actions and Adolf Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jewish people, Lula on Sunday (Feb 18) said "What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews."</p>

<p>Following this, the Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks.</p>

<p>Labelling the comments as a "serious antisemitic attack" he said that the Brazilian leader is "persona non grata" until he takes back the remark.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will not forget nor forgive. It is a serious antisemitic attack. In my name and the name of the citizens of Israel - tell President Lula that he is persona non grata in Israel until he takes it back."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-disagrees-with-brazils-holocaust-remarks-for-israel-blinken-tells-lula-692486">US 'disagrees' with Brazil's Holocaust remarks for Israel, Blinken tells Lula</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Shameful and grave' comments</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to Lula's remarks, Netanyahu deemed them as "shameful and grave", and said that his government had called in Brazil's ambassador in protest.</p>

<p>In a statement, he said that the Brazilian President's comments were "a trivialisation of the Holocaust and an attempt to attack the Jewish people and the right of Israel to self-defence. Drawing comparisons between Israel and the Nazis and Hitler is to cross a red line".</p>

<p>"Israel is fighting to defend itself and ensure its future until total victory, and it is doing that while upholding international law," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once again branded Israel's military offensive in the Gaza Strip a "genocide" at an event in Rio de Janeiro on Friday (Feb 23).

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva once again branded Israel's military offensive in the Gaza Strip a "genocide" at an event in Rio de Janeiro on Friday (Feb 23). He also called for a "free and sovereign Palestinian state" during the event. "I am in favour of the creation of a free and sovereign Palestinian state," Lula said. "What…Israel is doing is not a war, it is genocide because it is killing women and children," he said. "It is a genocide. Thousands of children are dead and thousands are missing. Soldiers are not dying. Women and children are dying at the hospital," he said. "If that's not genocide, I don't know what genocide is," he added. The Brazilian president's remarks come amid a diplomatic row between the South American nation and Israel after Lula controversially compared its campaign in Gaza to the Holocaust. Drawing a comparison between Israeli military actions and Adolf Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jewish people, Lula on Sunday (Feb 18) said "What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews." Following this, the Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday (Feb 19) declared that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is unwelcome in Israel until he retracts his remarks. Labelling the comments as a "serious antisemitic attack" he said that the Brazilian leader is "persona non grata" until he takes back the remark. "We will not forget nor forgive. It is a serious antisemitic attack. In my name and the name of the citizens of Israel - tell President Lula that he is persona non grata in Israel until he takes it back." Also read: US 'disagrees' with Brazil's Holocaust remarks for Israel, Blinken tells Lula 'Shameful and grave' comments Reacting to Lula's remarks, Netanyahu deemed them as "shameful and grave", and said that his government had called in Brazil's ambassador in protest. In a statement, he said that the Brazilian President's comments were "a trivialisation of the Holocaust and an attempt to attack the Jewish people and the right of Israel to self-defence. Drawing comparisons between Israel and the Nazis and Hitler is to cross a red line". "Israel is fighting to defend itself and ensure its future until total victory, and it is doing that while upholding international law," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil's Lula calls for 'free and sovereign Palestinian state' amid Israel-Hamas war

The prime ministers of Hungary and Sweden concluded a defense industry agreement on Friday that will expand Budapest's fleet of Swedish-built fighter jets, paving the way for Hungary's likely ratification of Sweden's long-delayed NATO bid.

Hungary and Sweden agree on defence deal

<p>The Ukrainian military has claimed to have&nbsp;downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane. Ukraine's Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday. Russia has not yet commented on these claims by Ukraine. In other news, US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-down-second-russian-spy-plane-in-weeks-as-war-completes-two-years-693315">Ukraine claims to down second Russian 'spy' plane in weeks</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414098-untitled-design-2024-02-24t083019120.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Ukraine said&nbsp;they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, which is the second such claim made by them in just a month. According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-jets-intercept-high-altitude-balloon-drifting-across-utah-norad-says-no-national-security-threat-693301">US jets intercept high-altitude balloon drifting across Utah</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/16/345670-untitled-design-37.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, media reports said citing officials. US officials reportedly confirmed that while the object posed no national security threat, where it originated from.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-extends-support-to-ivf-treatment-after-alabama-ruling-693338">Donald Trump extends support to IVF treatment after Alabama ruling</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414108-untitled-design-2024-02-24t093731103.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>United States former president Donald Trump has said he supports&nbsp;IVF treatments, as he joins&nbsp;the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue.&nbsp;The top court of the state last week ruled that frozen embryos have similar rights as children and&nbsp;people can be held liable for destroying them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-spaceship-odysseus-may-have-tipped-over-on-moon-surface-likely-fractured-landing-equipment-693303">US spaceship Odysseus might have 'tipped over' on Moon surface</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414087-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Odysseus, which etched&nbsp;its name in the history books by becoming the first American US spaceship to have landed on the moon in over 50 years, might have tipped over on the surface of the Earth's natural satellite. Steve Altemus, the CEO of Intuitive Machines, the private company that prepared the spaceship, reportedly said,&nbsp;"We might have fractured that landing gear and tipped over gently."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Trump attacks Nikki Haley as she faces overwhelming odds in home state primary</strong></p>

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The Ukrainian military has claimed to have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane. Ukraine's Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday.

The Ukrainian military has claimed to have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane. Ukraine's Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday. Russia has not yet commented on these claims by Ukraine. In other news, US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country. Click on the headlines to read more. Ukraine claims to down second Russian 'spy' plane in weeks Ukraine said they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, which is the second such claim made by them in just a month. According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line. US jets intercept high-altitude balloon drifting across Utah US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, media reports said citing officials. US officials reportedly confirmed that while the object posed no national security threat, where it originated from. Donald Trump extends support to IVF treatment after Alabama ruling United States former president Donald Trump has said he supports IVF treatments, as he joins the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue. The top court of the state last week ruled that frozen embryos have similar rights as children and people can be held liable for destroying them. US spaceship Odysseus might have 'tipped over' on Moon surface Odysseus, which etched its name in the history books by becoming the first American US spaceship to have landed on the moon in over 50 years, might have tipped over on the surface of the Earth's natural satellite. Steve Altemus, the CEO of Intuitive Machines, the private company that prepared the spaceship, reportedly said, "We might have fractured that landing gear and tipped over gently." Watch | Trump attacks Nikki Haley as she faces overwhelming odds in home state primary ×

Morning brief: Ukraine claims to down Russian 'spy' plane, US jets intercept high-altitude balloon, and more

<p>A former employee of tech giant Google has alleged that he was denied a promotion at the company for 'being a white man'. Shaun Maguire,as per a report in The New York Post, worked at Google's headquarters in Mountain view, California in the United States between 2016 and 2019. Maguire created a poll on social media post X (formerly Twitter) in December 2023 asking, "Should I go public with the story about the time I was told I can’t be promoted for being a white man?". The respondents overwhelmingly voted 'yes'.</p>

<p>On Friday (Feb 23), Maguire started a thread quoting this 2023 poll and claimed that he received such a treatment at Google calling the company "an absolute trash can dumpster fire".</p>

<p>He subsequently made more posts describing the incident and the treatment he claimed he got.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“I’m really not supposed to tell you this. It could get me fired.<br />
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But you’re one of the highest performing people here but I can’t promote you right now because I have a quota. My hands are tied. You’ll get the next slot. Please be patient. I’m really sorry.”<br />
<br />
— Google <a href="https://t.co/0I7bmWmPIu">https://t.co/0I7bmWmPIu</a></p>
— Shaun Maguire (@shaunmmaguire) <a href="https://twitter.com/shaunmmaguire/status/1760885099984261564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>He further claimed that since he made posts about his experience, 'up to 5' ex-Google employees contacted him and said that they have experienced similar treatment from the company.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Google sued over Pixel 6 pro smartphones being too hot</strong></p>

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<p>The New York Post cited a source within Google who said that when Maguire was at Google, the company was facing problem with #MeToo scandals which led to formation of 'employee resource groups' which demanded that Google hire more women and other diverse candidates. The source reportedly claimed that the pressure campaign even reached the company's top management, including founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin.</p>

<p>Google had termed this "completely untrue".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-gmail-shutting-down-google-clarifies-after-hoax-claims-it-is-coming-to-a-close-693065">Is Gmail shutting down? Google clarifies after hoax claims it is 'coming to a close'</a></strong></p>

<p>“The founders and Board have never spoken to [Google Ventures] &nbsp;about personnel matters. Shaun is a talented investor and we wish him well at Sequoia, but decisions about his promotion and career advancement at GV not once ever involved consideration of his race or gender,” representative of the company said as reported by The New York.</p>

<p>After leaving Google in 2019, Maguire sold his cybersecurity firm Expanse for USD 1.05 billion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A former employee of tech giant Google has alleged that he was denied a promotion at the company for 'being a white man'. Shaun Maguire,as per a report in The New York Post, worked at Google's headquarters in Mountain view, California in the United States between 2016 and 2019.

A former employee of tech giant Google has alleged that he was denied a promotion at the company for 'being a white man'. Shaun Maguire,as per a report in The New York Post, worked at Google's headquarters in Mountain view, California in the United States between 2016 and 2019. Maguire created a poll on social media post X (formerly Twitter) in December 2023 asking, "Should I go public with the story about the time I was told I can’t be promoted for being a white man?". The respondents overwhelmingly voted 'yes'. On Friday (Feb 23), Maguire started a thread quoting this 2023 poll and claimed that he received such a treatment at Google calling the company "an absolute trash can dumpster fire". He subsequently made more posts describing the incident and the treatment he claimed he got. “I’m really not supposed to tell you this. It could get me fired. But you’re one of the highest performing people here but I can’t promote you right now because I have a quota. My hands are tied. You’ll get the next slot. Please be patient. I’m really sorry.” — Google https://t.co/0I7bmWmPIu — Shaun Maguire (@shaunmmaguire) February 23, 2024 × He further claimed that since he made posts about his experience, 'up to 5' ex-Google employees contacted him and said that they have experienced similar treatment from the company. Watch | Google sued over Pixel 6 pro smartphones being too hot × The New York Post cited a source within Google who said that when Maguire was at Google, the company was facing problem with #MeToo scandals which led to formation of 'employee resource groups' which demanded that Google hire more women and other diverse candidates. The source reportedly claimed that the pressure campaign even reached the company's top management, including founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin. Google had termed this "completely untrue". Also Read | Is Gmail shutting down? Google clarifies after hoax claims it is 'coming to a close' “The founders and Board have never spoken to [Google Ventures] about personnel matters. Shaun is a talented investor and we wish him well at Sequoia, but decisions about his promotion and career advancement at GV not once ever involved consideration of his race or gender,” representative of the company said as reported by The New York. After leaving Google in 2019, Maguire sold his cybersecurity firm Expanse for USD 1.05 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Google employee accuses company of denying promotion as he was 'white man'

Today is the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces have advanced further to the West. Russia claims it has destroyed key Ukrainian facilities. Meanwhile, as the war rages on, Ukrainians across the country face a grim uncertainty. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Italian PM says, 'Italy will continue to provide support to Ukraine'

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky promises victory against Russia on the second anniversary of the invasion as his troops fight on despite a lack of western aid and recent Russian gains. But the western weapon deliveries are drying up. Russia is world's most sanctioned country. Yet Russia's economy is back to its pre-war levels. The big question: are the western sanctions against Russia working? Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Two years of Russia-Ukraine war: Why Putin has the upper hand

Thousands of Sri Lankans paraded down the streets of Colombo in a festival to commemorate the appointment of Buddha's two Chief disciples, watch these very colorful images of Sri Lanka's Annual Festival Navam Perahera.

Sri Lanka celebrates Navam Perahera festival, dancers & acrobats take to streets in Colombo

<p>US presidential hopefuls Nikki Haley and Donald Trump are all set to face off in the South Carolina Republican primary. Trump so far looks like a formidable force, having swept Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada. But can we see an upset in South Carolina, where Haley enjoys wider support as the state’s twice-elected governor?</p>

<h2><strong>Haley jumps into the fray with high hopes</strong></h2>

<p>February 24 is certainly the big day for Haley’s nomination campaign. During interactions with her supporters in Iowa and New Hampshire, she boasted that she would be winning “my sweet state of South Carolina.”</p>

<p>Despite glaring challenges, Haley seems to be riding on high hopes. “There were 14 candidates in this race,” she says, adding, “I’ve defeated 12 of the fellas, and I have just one more to catch up to.”</p>

<p>For Haley in particular, stakes are high in South Carolina. She can’t afford to lose a state where she has served as governor. A loss to Trump would technically deal a massive blow to her campaign.</p>

<p>Currently, Trump leads Haley in opinion polls by a whopping 36 points, giving the ex-president confidence that he would win “bigly.” “Everybody knows you can’t lose your home state,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Women could spoil Haley’s party</strong></h2>

<p>Women, who have made up 53 per cent of voters in presidential elections since 2000, generally hold negative views of Nikki Haley.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;'A vote for Nikki Haley is a vote for Joe Biden': Trump in South Carolina</strong></p>

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<p>In December, an Emerson College poll showed just 8 per cent support among Republican women for Haley compared with 19 per cent support among Republican men.</p>

<h2><strong>South Carolina primary system</strong></h2>

<p>The state follows an open primary system regime, which allows any registered voter to participate in the party’s primary. However, the only caveat is that a voter can only participate in only one party’s presidential primary.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2VRCzy86IsCR7mV4Kamksr" data-ved="2ahUKEwics8TprsSEAxXX1jQHHQm-AJQQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-world-was-safer-and-more-stable-when-trump-was-us-president-693187" jsname="YKoRaf">Boris Johnson says world was `safer and more stable` when Trump was US president</a></strong></p>

<p>On a national level, a Republican candidate needs 1,215 delegates to secure the nomination. The candidate winning South Carolina will get votes of 29 delegates. So far, Haley has 17 delegates against Trump’s 63.</p>

<h2><strong>What if Haley loses the South Carolina primary?</strong></h2>

<p>In reality, a loss could spell doom for Haley’s nomination ambitions. However, Haley has vowed to remain determined.</p>

<p>During a campaign speech on Tuesday in Greenville, South Carolina, she defiantly said, “South Carolina will vote on Saturday, but on Sunday, I’ll still be running for president.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US presidential hopefuls Nikki Haley and Donald Trump are all set to face off in the South Carolina Republican primary. Trump so far looks like a formidable force, having swept Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada.

US presidential hopefuls Nikki Haley and Donald Trump are all set to face off in the South Carolina Republican primary. Trump so far looks like a formidable force, having swept Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada. But can we see an upset in South Carolina, where Haley enjoys wider support as the state’s twice-elected governor? Haley jumps into the fray with high hopes February 24 is certainly the big day for Haley’s nomination campaign. During interactions with her supporters in Iowa and New Hampshire, she boasted that she would be winning “my sweet state of South Carolina.” Despite glaring challenges, Haley seems to be riding on high hopes. “There were 14 candidates in this race,” she says, adding, “I’ve defeated 12 of the fellas, and I have just one more to catch up to.” For Haley in particular, stakes are high in South Carolina. She can’t afford to lose a state where she has served as governor. A loss to Trump would technically deal a massive blow to her campaign. Currently, Trump leads Haley in opinion polls by a whopping 36 points, giving the ex-president confidence that he would win “bigly.” “Everybody knows you can’t lose your home state,” he said. Women could spoil Haley’s party Women, who have made up 53 per cent of voters in presidential elections since 2000, generally hold negative views of Nikki Haley. Watch: 'A vote for Nikki Haley is a vote for Joe Biden': Trump in South Carolina × In December, an Emerson College poll showed just 8 per cent support among Republican women for Haley compared with 19 per cent support among Republican men. South Carolina primary system The state follows an open primary system regime, which allows any registered voter to participate in the party’s primary. However, the only caveat is that a voter can only participate in only one party’s presidential primary. Also read: Boris Johnson says world was `safer and more stable` when Trump was US president On a national level, a Republican candidate needs 1,215 delegates to secure the nomination. The candidate winning South Carolina will get votes of 29 delegates. So far, Haley has 17 delegates against Trump’s 63. What if Haley loses the South Carolina primary? In reality, a loss could spell doom for Haley’s nomination ambitions. However, Haley has vowed to remain determined. During a campaign speech on Tuesday in Greenville, South Carolina, she defiantly said, “South Carolina will vote on Saturday, but on Sunday, I’ll still be running for president.” (With inputs from agencies)

South Carolina Republican primary: Trump looks formidable as Haley braces for litmus test

<p>Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Friday (February 23) Israel is committing a “genocide” in the middle of a diplomatic rift caused by his remarks comparing the war in Gaza with the Nazi genocide during World War Two.</p>

<p>Lula made the comments at a state-run oil company Petrobras event in Rio on Friday where he said he supports the creation of a Palestinian state.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-above-100-killed-in-gaza-in-overnight-strikes-on-houses-693461">Israel-Hamas war: Over 100 ‘killed’ in overnight strikes on residences in Gaza</a></p>

<p>The president's remarks last Sunday (February 18) comparing the war in Gaza to Hitler’s treatment of Jews led Israel to say he was not welcome there until he took back the comments.</p>

<p>The diplomatic spat entered a third day on Tuesday (February 20), with Brazil's foreign minister calling Israel's response to comments made by Lula da Silva on the Gaza Strip "unacceptable" and "untruthful."</p>

<p>On Saturday (Feb 24), a building was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, southern Gaza, which killed 8 Palestinians.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-proposes-first-post-war-gaza-plan-693157">Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu proposes first official post-war Gaza plan</a></p>

<p>Gaza health officials said eight Palestinians were killed and several others were wounded in an Israeli air strike on a house in Rafah where over half of the territory’s 2.3 million people were sheltering.</p>

<p>"They say it is a safe area but we have people being killed each day, we have daily shelling, where is the safe area, it is just words, it is all nonsense, there is no safe place in all of the Gaza strip," said Rafah resident Khaled Ghareez, who went on to claim that the bodies recovered were mostly of women and children.</p>

<p>The Gaza health ministry claimed said ahead of this strike, that 92 people were killed and 123 injured in the last 24 hours.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: 100,000 Indians to work in Israel; govt to hire Indian workforce?</strong></p>

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<p>The Israeli military meanwhile asserted that it had killed dozens of militants and seized weapons across Gaza since Thursday (February 22).</p>

<p>Close to 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since Oct.7, alleges the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry on Friday (February 23).</p>

<p>Israel launched its months-long military campaign after militants from Hamas-ruled Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on Oct 7.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Friday (February 23) Israel is committing a “genocide” in the middle of a diplomatic rift caused by his remarks comparing the war in Gaza with the Nazi genocide during World War Two.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Friday (February 23) Israel is committing a “genocide” in the middle of a diplomatic rift caused by his remarks comparing the war in Gaza with the Nazi genocide during World War Two. Lula made the comments at a state-run oil company Petrobras event in Rio on Friday where he said he supports the creation of a Palestinian state. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Over 100 ‘killed’ in overnight strikes on residences in Gaza The president's remarks last Sunday (February 18) comparing the war in Gaza to Hitler’s treatment of Jews led Israel to say he was not welcome there until he took back the comments. The diplomatic spat entered a third day on Tuesday (February 20), with Brazil's foreign minister calling Israel's response to comments made by Lula da Silva on the Gaza Strip "unacceptable" and "untruthful." On Saturday (Feb 24), a building was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, southern Gaza, which killed 8 Palestinians. Also read: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu proposes first official post-war Gaza plan Gaza health officials said eight Palestinians were killed and several others were wounded in an Israeli air strike on a house in Rafah where over half of the territory’s 2.3 million people were sheltering. "They say it is a safe area but we have people being killed each day, we have daily shelling, where is the safe area, it is just words, it is all nonsense, there is no safe place in all of the Gaza strip," said Rafah resident Khaled Ghareez, who went on to claim that the bodies recovered were mostly of women and children. The Gaza health ministry claimed said ahead of this strike, that 92 people were killed and 123 injured in the last 24 hours. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: 100,000 Indians to work in Israel; govt to hire Indian workforce? × The Israeli military meanwhile asserted that it had killed dozens of militants and seized weapons across Gaza since Thursday (February 22). Close to 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since Oct.7, alleges the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry on Friday (February 23). Israel launched its months-long military campaign after militants from Hamas-ruled Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on Oct 7. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s not war, it’s genocide,’ Brazil’s Lula says of Israel after diplomatic rift

Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks to WION on 2nd anniversary of Russia-Ukraine war

<p>US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, said media reports. US officials reportedly confirmed the incident on Friday (Feb 23) and said the&nbsp;object posed no national security threat, but the motto is not known.&nbsp;</p>

<p>About a year ago, a large Chinese spy balloon was spotted across the US, and after much uproar and controversy it was&nbsp;shot down over the Atlantic Ocean by an F-22 fighter jet.</p>

<p>The latest UFO was flying eastward at an altitude of approximately 43,000 feet (8 miles)-45,000 feet. North American Aerospace Defense Command in a statement reportedly confirmed that the "small balloon" was detected in close coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).</p>

<p>Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-shot-dead-after-fight-on-subway-train-in-new-york-city-693249">Man shot dead after fight on subway train in New York City</a></p>

<p>"The balloon was intercepted by NORAD fighters over Utah, who determined it was not maneuverable and did not present a threat to national security. NORAD will continue to track and monitor the balloon. The FAA also determined the balloon posed no hazard to flight safety. NORAD remains in close coordination with the FAA to ensure flight safety," said NORAD in a statement.</p>

<p>However, the ownership of the balloon continues to remain unclear.&nbsp;The sighting of the balloon occurred over Colorado and Utah before being intercepted by US military aircraft, media reports suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalny-team-says-authorities-are-threatening-burial-on-prison-ground-693237">Alexei Navalny's team says authorities are threatening to bury him on prison grounds</a></p>

<p>A similar incident a year ago sparked criticism from the US Congress for the&nbsp;extended period of time&nbsp;it took for the government to&nbsp;intervene. It was even more controversial as the balloon was in proximity to military installations.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-to-overcome-money-dysmorphia-693277">How to overcome money dysmorphia?</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Chinese 'spy' balloon</strong></h2>

<p>However, the Chinese officials&nbsp;refuted the&nbsp;claims of the balloon being used for spying, and said&nbsp;it was a weather data collection device. Subsequent incidents involving smaller airborne objects were promptly addressed by US fighter jets, with three being shot down over different locations -&nbsp;Lake Huron, Canada, and Alaska.&nbsp;</p>
</section>

<p>The&nbsp;interception of a Chinese balloon prompted diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelling a planned trip to China. The balloon, after what seemed like an unending saga, was ultimately destroyed by an F-22 jet fighter off the coast of South Carolina.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, said media reports. US officials reportedly confirmed the incident on Friday (Feb 23) and said the object posed no national security threat, but the motto is not known.

US jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon traversing the western region of the country, said media reports. US officials reportedly confirmed the incident on Friday (Feb 23) and said the object posed no national security threat, but the motto is not known. About a year ago, a large Chinese spy balloon was spotted across the US, and after much uproar and controversy it was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean by an F-22 fighter jet. The latest UFO was flying eastward at an altitude of approximately 43,000 feet (8 miles)-45,000 feet. North American Aerospace Defense Command in a statement reportedly confirmed that the "small balloon" was detected in close coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Also Read |Man shot dead after fight on subway train in New York City "The balloon was intercepted by NORAD fighters over Utah, who determined it was not maneuverable and did not present a threat to national security. NORAD will continue to track and monitor the balloon. The FAA also determined the balloon posed no hazard to flight safety. NORAD remains in close coordination with the FAA to ensure flight safety," said NORAD in a statement. However, the ownership of the balloon continues to remain unclear. The sighting of the balloon occurred over Colorado and Utah before being intercepted by US military aircraft, media reports suggested. Also Read | Alexei Navalny's team says authorities are threatening to bury him on prison grounds A similar incident a year ago sparked criticism from the US Congress for the extended period of time it took for the government to intervene. It was even more controversial as the balloon was in proximity to military installations. Watch | How to overcome money dysmorphia? × Chinese 'spy' balloon However, the Chinese officials refuted the claims of the balloon being used for spying, and said it was a weather data collection device. Subsequent incidents involving smaller airborne objects were promptly addressed by US fighter jets, with three being shot down over different locations - Lake Huron, Canada, and Alaska. The interception of a Chinese balloon prompted diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelling a planned trip to China. The balloon, after what seemed like an unending saga, was ultimately destroyed by an F-22 jet fighter off the coast of South Carolina. (With inputs from agencies)

US jets intercept high-altitude balloon drifting across Utah, NORAD says 'no national security threat'

Shamima Begum, a London native who joined the Islamic State terror group when she was a schoolgirl in Syria, lost her most recent appeal on Friday, February 23, over the cancellation of her British citizenship. A few weeks after Shamima Begum was discovered in a detention camp in northeastern Syria in 2019, the British government revoked her citizenship on the pretext of national security.

Shamima Begum, former 'ISIS bride', loses appeal against UK citizenship revocation

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-handed-over-to-his-mother-spokesperson-693534">Alexei Navalny's body returned to his mother over a week after his death in Russian prison</a></p>

<p>Alexei Navalny's dead body was handed over to his mother by the Russian authorities, a Navalny spokesperson was quoted as saying by the news agency AFP.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412664-untitled-design-2024-02-17t084609413.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-enters-third-year-as-putin-defies-wests-support-for-zelensky-693480">Russia-Ukraine war enters 3rd year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky</a></p>

<p>Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022,&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414208-untitled-design-2024-02-24t173809590.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-above-100-killed-in-gaza-in-overnight-strikes-on-houses-693461">Israel-Hamas war: Over 100 ‘killed’ in overnight strikes on residences in Gaza, claims ministry</a></p>

<p>At least 103 people were killed in Gaza overnight as enclave’s Health Ministry claimed on Saturday (Feb 24) that the Israeli army targeted families and residential complexes. With this, the death toll in Gaza has risen to 29,600. Nearly 70,000 people have been injured since the conflict began on October 7.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414191-yearender-2023-23.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-farmers-disrupt-paris-farm-fair-ahead-of-macrons-visit-693469">French farmers disrupt Paris farm fair ahead of Macron's visit</a></p>

<p>A group of French farmers disrupted a major Paris farm fair on Saturday just before President Emmanuel Macron's planned visit, expressing frustration over expenses, bureaucratic hurdles, and environmental regulations.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414195-untitled-design-47.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shoots-three-houthi-drones-hours-after-warning-of-environmental-disaster-from-cargo-ship-hit-by-rebels-693385">US shoots three Houthi drones, hours after warning of environmental disaster from cargo ship hit by rebels</a></p>

<p>Three attack drones of Houthi rebels were shot down by the American forces near the commercial ships in the Red Sea on Friday (Feb 23), hours after the United States warned of an environmental disaster from the cargo ship, which was hit by Houthi rebels.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414137-wion-banners-prisha-31.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-data-reveals-earth-is-increasingly-absorbing-more-solar-radiation-693463">NASA data reveals Earth is increasingly absorbing more solar radiation</a></p>

<p>Climate change is no longer something that'll happen in the future. It has very much arrived and the effects are for everyone to see. Data from NASA has now revealed that there was an uptick in absorption of solar radiation by Earth in the year 2023. This is a crucial observation as how and how much solar radiation Earth absorbs has an ultimate effect on climate.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/29/307038-untitled-design-2022-10-29t135011756.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-the-buzz-over-americas-latest-moon-landing-is-it-a-success-693438">Explained | What’s the buzz over America’s latest moon landing? Is it a success?</a></p>

<p>Soft-landing a craft on the moon is difficult. There's no nation or private firm that will dispute it. Everyone who has tried has learnt lessons the hard way. Ample testimony to this fact is how America, the pioneer&nbsp;of space technology with multiple Apollo-series manned moon landings is celebrating the latest partial success by private firm Intuitive Machines.&nbsp;Lunar lander Odysseus,&nbsp;made by Texas-based Intuitive Machines,&nbsp;managed to soft-land near the Lunar South Pole on Friday (Feb 23).</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414175-wion-banners-prisha-32.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/norovirus-is-spreading-in-us-states-cdc-data-shows-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-zoonotic-disease-693380">Norovirus spreading in US states, shows CDC data. Here's all you need to know about the zoonotic disease</a></p>

<p>A new virus is on the loose in the United States, called ‘norovirus’, which is a type of stomach virus or stomach flu. As per the recent data released by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus is spreading rapidly in the north-eastern region of the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414134-untitled-design-2024-02-24t112942259.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-newly-enacted-laws-for-criminal-justice-systems-overhaul-to-come-into-effect-from-july-1-693518">India's newly-enacted laws for criminal justice system's overhaul to come into effect from July 1</a></p>

<p>The overhaul of India's criminal justice system&nbsp;is scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2024, a government release said on Saturday (Feb 22). The changes will take place&nbsp;with the implementation of three new laws – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Act, which will replace the existing Indian Penal Act,&nbsp;the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/08/397913-untitled-design-2023-12-08t080720678.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actress-judith-godreche-speaks-out-against-sexual-violence-in-french-film-industry-693397">Actress Judith Godreche speaks out against sexual violence in French film industry</a></p>

<p>Actress Judith Godreche received a standing ovation at the Cesar Awards on Friday as she spoke out against sexual violence in the French film industry.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/24/414148-happy-30th-birthday-2024-02-24t124915048.png?imwidth=400" /></p>


Alexei Navalny's body returned to his mother over a week after his death in Russian prison Alexei Navalny's dead body was handed over to his mother by the Russian authorities, a Navalny spokesperson was quoted as saying by the news agency AFP.

Alexei Navalny's body returned to his mother over a week after his death in Russian prison Alexei Navalny's dead body was handed over to his mother by the Russian authorities, a Navalny spokesperson was quoted as saying by the news agency AFP. Russia-Ukraine war enters 3rd year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals. Israel-Hamas war: Over 100 ‘killed’ in overnight strikes on residences in Gaza, claims ministry At least 103 people were killed in Gaza overnight as enclave’s Health Ministry claimed on Saturday (Feb 24) that the Israeli army targeted families and residential complexes. With this, the death toll in Gaza has risen to 29,600. Nearly 70,000 people have been injured since the conflict began on October 7. French farmers disrupt Paris farm fair ahead of Macron's visit A group of French farmers disrupted a major Paris farm fair on Saturday just before President Emmanuel Macron's planned visit, expressing frustration over expenses, bureaucratic hurdles, and environmental regulations. US shoots three Houthi drones, hours after warning of environmental disaster from cargo ship hit by rebels Three attack drones of Houthi rebels were shot down by the American forces near the commercial ships in the Red Sea on Friday (Feb 23), hours after the United States warned of an environmental disaster from the cargo ship, which was hit by Houthi rebels. NASA data reveals Earth is increasingly absorbing more solar radiation Climate change is no longer something that'll happen in the future. It has very much arrived and the effects are for everyone to see. Data from NASA has now revealed that there was an uptick in absorption of solar radiation by Earth in the year 2023. This is a crucial observation as how and how much solar radiation Earth absorbs has an ultimate effect on climate. Explained | What’s the buzz over America’s latest moon landing? Is it a success? Soft-landing a craft on the moon is difficult. There's no nation or private firm that will dispute it. Everyone who has tried has learnt lessons the hard way. Ample testimony to this fact is how America, the pioneer of space technology with multiple Apollo-series manned moon landings is celebrating the latest partial success by private firm Intuitive Machines. Lunar lander Odysseus, made by Texas-based Intuitive Machines, managed to soft-land near the Lunar South Pole on Friday (Feb 23). Norovirus spreading in US states, shows CDC data. Here's all you need to know about the zoonotic disease A new virus is on the loose in the United States, called ‘norovirus’, which is a type of stomach virus or stomach flu. As per the recent data released by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus is spreading rapidly in the north-eastern region of the US. India's newly-enacted laws for criminal justice system's overhaul to come into effect from July 1 The overhaul of India's criminal justice system is scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2024, a government release said on Saturday (Feb 22). The changes will take place with the implementation of three new laws – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Act, which will replace the existing Indian Penal Act, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. Actress Judith Godreche speaks out against sexual violence in French film industry Actress Judith Godreche received a standing ovation at the Cesar Awards on Friday as she spoke out against sexual violence in the French film industry.

Top 10 World News: Russia hands over Navalny's body to mother; Ukraine war enters third year, and more

After one of the bloodiest engagements of the war, Moscow claimed complete control over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, but some Ukrainian troops were reportedly still holed up in a Soviet-era coke plant.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's defences under strain as Russia enhances attack on the country

<p lang="en-US">United States former president Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 23) said that he supports&nbsp;IVF treatment, as he joined the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue.<br />
<br />
The top court of the state last week ruled that frozen embryos have similar rights as children and that people can be held&nbsp;liable for destroying them. After the court's ruling, at least three clinics halted IVF treatment.<br />
<br />
Speaking about the issue&nbsp;Trump asked Alabama to find "an immediate solution".<br />
<br />
"We want to make it easier for mothers and fathers to have babies, not harder! That includes supporting the availability of fertility treatments like IVF in every State in America," wrote the former president, on his Truth Social platform.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><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 lang="en-US">"[Like] the VAST MAJORITY of Republicans, Conservatives, Christians, and Pro-Life Americans, I strongly support the availability of IVF for couples who are trying to have a precious baby," he added.<br />
<br />
This was the first time Trump commented on the issue and hinted at his opposition to a ruling which, according to some Republicans, can harm them electorally by disturbing their plans to win the support of suburban women and also swing voters.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>'Ruling not intended&nbsp;to prosecute IVF providers'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Meanwhile on Friday (Feb 23) Alabama's Republican Attorney General Steve Marshall, in an effort to ease the concerns regarding IVF in the state, said that he does not intend to prosecute either the providers of IVF or the families of those opting for IVF.<br />
<br />
The National Republican Senate Committee, distancing itself from the Alabama ruling, sent out a memo to candidates in which it asked them to support IVF and "campaign on increasing access" to the treatment.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Trump seeks to dismiss Mar-a-Lago classified documents case</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-seeks-to-dismiss-mar-a-lago-classified-documents-case-693223/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">"There are zero Republican Senate candidates who support efforts to restrict access to fertility treatments," said the committee's executive director, Jason Thielman, in the memo as reported by BBC.<br />
<br />
The memo further cited the data of internal polling conducted by Kellyanne Conway, who once was Trump's White House adviser, to show that access to IVF is popular.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, various Senate candidates, including Kari Lake in Arizona, also came out publicly in support of access to the treatment after the circulation of the memo.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States former president Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 23) said that he supports IVF treatment, as he joined the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue.

United States former president Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 23) said that he supports IVF treatment, as he joined the list of Republicans who have distanced themselves from a ruling given by an Alabama court over the issue. The top court of the state last week ruled that frozen embryos have similar rights as children and that people can be held liable for destroying them. After the court's ruling, at least three clinics halted IVF treatment. Speaking about the issue Trump asked Alabama to find "an immediate solution". "We want to make it easier for mothers and fathers to have babies, not harder! That includes supporting the availability of fertility treatments like IVF in every State in America," wrote the former president, on his Truth Social platform. Also Read: Biden asks campaign aides to focus on ‘crazy s*** that Trump says': Report "[Like] the VAST MAJORITY of Republicans, Conservatives, Christians, and Pro-Life Americans, I strongly support the availability of IVF for couples who are trying to have a precious baby," he added. This was the first time Trump commented on the issue and hinted at his opposition to a ruling which, according to some Republicans, can harm them electorally by disturbing their plans to win the support of suburban women and also swing voters. 'Ruling not intended to prosecute IVF providers' Meanwhile on Friday (Feb 23) Alabama's Republican Attorney General Steve Marshall, in an effort to ease the concerns regarding IVF in the state, said that he does not intend to prosecute either the providers of IVF or the families of those opting for IVF. The National Republican Senate Committee, distancing itself from the Alabama ruling, sent out a memo to candidates in which it asked them to support IVF and "campaign on increasing access" to the treatment. Watch: US: Trump seeks to dismiss Mar-a-Lago classified documents case "There are zero Republican Senate candidates who support efforts to restrict access to fertility treatments," said the committee's executive director, Jason Thielman, in the memo as reported by BBC. The memo further cited the data of internal polling conducted by Kellyanne Conway, who once was Trump's White House adviser, to show that access to IVF is popular. Meanwhile, various Senate candidates, including Kari Lake in Arizona, also came out publicly in support of access to the treatment after the circulation of the memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump extends support to IVF treatment after Alabama ruling

Former President Donald Trump rallied supporters in Rock Hill, South Carolina, confident he will clinch the Republican nomination in the state. Rival Nikki Haley and Trump are both hitting the trail in South Carolina on the eve of Saturday's (February 24) primary.

'A vote for Nikki Haley is a vote for Joe Biden': Trump in South Carolina

Czech Republic's Jan Lipavsky, the Foreign Minister, has emphasized that his nation is willing to work with India, especially in the fields of innovation and research. He also discussed India's productive G20 presidency. Watch an exclusive interview between Siddhant Sibbal, the diplomatic correspondent for WION, and Jan Lipavsky.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky in an exclusive interview with WION | Siddhant Sibbal

Germany on Friday joined the small group of countries and jurisdictions that have legalised cannabis when the Bundestag passed a law allowing individuals and voluntary associations to grow and hold limited quantities of the drug.

Germany joins legal cannabis club that allows growth and holding of limited quantities of the drug

Insufficient Food Supplies alarming malnutrition rates and rapidly spreading diseases are threatening the lives of children in Gaza. United Nations has reported that at least one in four families are facing catastrophic levels of acute food insecurity. UNICEF has estimated that in the coming weeks at least 10,000 children under the age of five will suffer from the most life-threatening form of malnutrition. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Over 10,000 children at risk of severe malnutrition: UNICEF

<p>France's Eiffel Tower that had been closed for five days by a strike will reopen Sunday (Feb 25) after&nbsp;the monument's management announced a deal had been struck with unions.</p>

<p>The stoppage since Monday (Feb19) at one of the world's best-known tourist sites was the second within two months in protest at what unions say was insufficient investment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2tt_aTY-wJFjQArQ2ZYlFI" data-ved="2ahUKEwi5svqdubeEAxWub2wGHSENAPYQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-cleaver-attack-paris-police-shoot-dead-sudan-born-man-691272" jsname="YKoRaf">France cleaver attack: Paris police shoot dead Sudan-born man</a></strong></p>

<p>The tower's operator SETE said it had reached agreement with the unions on Saturday "under which the parties will regularly monitor the company's business model, investment in works and revenue through a body that will meet every six months".</p>

<p>With an aim to balance its books by 2025, both sides also agreed to see an investment of some 380 million euros up to 2031 toward works and maintenance of the tower, the statement said.</p>

<p>SETE extended apologies to visitors caught in the strike action, which resulted in the loss of some 100,000 admissions.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Paris witnesses more protests, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation</strong></p>

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<p>The Eiffel Tower booked a shortfall of around 120 million euros ($130 million) during the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021.</p>

<p>SETE has since received a recapitalisation of 60 million euros, which unions say is insufficient given that major maintenance work is needed, including a fresh paint job.</p>

<p>Visitor numbers dropped sharply during Covid due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022 and 6.3 million last year.</p>

<p>The masterpiece by architect Gustave Eiffel has been repainted 19 times since it was built for the 1889 World Fair.</p>


France's Eiffel Tower that had been closed for five days by a strike will reopen Sunday (Feb 25) after the monument's management announced a deal had been struck with unions.

France's Eiffel Tower that had been closed for five days by a strike will reopen Sunday (Feb 25) after the monument's management announced a deal had been struck with unions. The stoppage since Monday (Feb19) at one of the world's best-known tourist sites was the second within two months in protest at what unions say was insufficient investment. Also read: France cleaver attack: Paris police shoot dead Sudan-born man The tower's operator SETE said it had reached agreement with the unions on Saturday "under which the parties will regularly monitor the company's business model, investment in works and revenue through a body that will meet every six months". With an aim to balance its books by 2025, both sides also agreed to see an investment of some 380 million euros up to 2031 toward works and maintenance of the tower, the statement said. SETE extended apologies to visitors caught in the strike action, which resulted in the loss of some 100,000 admissions. Watch: Paris witnesses more protests, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation × The Eiffel Tower booked a shortfall of around 120 million euros ($130 million) during the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021. SETE has since received a recapitalisation of 60 million euros, which unions say is insufficient given that major maintenance work is needed, including a fresh paint job. Visitor numbers dropped sharply during Covid due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022 and 6.3 million last year. The masterpiece by architect Gustave Eiffel has been repainted 19 times since it was built for the 1889 World Fair.

Eiffel Tower to reopen Sunday as strike ends

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