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<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed that the truce talks with Hamas were halted over the 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit. Israel had sent negotiators&nbsp;for the talks on US President Joe Biden's request in Cairo but they did not go back for further discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked during a press conference why the negotiators did not return to the table, Netanyahu explained:&nbsp;"We got nothing except for delusional demands from Hamas."</p>

<p>The Israeli PM said demands included freeing "thousands of murderers" from Israeli&nbsp;jails as well as&nbsp;demands regarding a flashpoint holy site in Jerusalem known as the Temple Mount in Judaism and the Noble Sanctuary in Islam. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I wanted to say not a millimetre - but there was not a nanometer of change," added Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talks have been ongoing for the last few weeks but without any breakthrough. Tel Aviv is of the view that any settlement would be reached only through direct negotiations and without preconditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>As for the planned ground offensive in Rafah - the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip, housing 1.4 million displaced Palestinians, Netanyahu iterated that even if a truce deal was reached, his troops would march in.</p>

<p>Netanyahu hit back at the critics saying those calling for Israel not to mount the military action were telling the country to "lose the war" against Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Even if we achieve it [truce deal], we will enter Rafah," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Rafah crisis and Israel's stance</strong></h2>

<p>According to UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, people were moving in large numbers towards Deir al-Balah, which is roughly 16 kilometres (10 miles) north of Rafah, anticipating the attack. He added that the situation was rapidly deteriorating in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In Rafah, humanitarian conditions have become increasingly severe, with continued reports of people stopping aid trucks to take food,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Dujarric.</p>

<p>Israel says it will ensure the region is evacuated before it is targeted. However, experts say there is nowhere to go due to the vast devastation left behind.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1xkHOwadCjviWRnLHnh0Wy" data-ved="2ahUKEwiC6LXfrLKEAxXL7zgGHdgJAm8QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shame-on-him-israel-slams-un-aid-chief-after-he-says-hamas-not-terrorist-group-for-us-691165" jsname="YKoRaf">`Shame on him`, Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (Feb 16) dismissed a motion brought by South Africa to impose urgent measures to safeguard Rafah.</p>

<p>The top UN court said in a statement that the “perilous situation” in Rafah “demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures" that it ordered on January 26.</p>

<p>However, the court warned that Israel “remains bound to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed that the truce talks with Hamas were halted over the 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit. Israel had sent negotiators for the talks on US President Joe Biden's request in Cairo but they did not go back for further discussions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed that the truce talks with Hamas were halted over the 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit. Israel had sent negotiators for the talks on US President Joe Biden's request in Cairo but they did not go back for further discussions. Asked during a press conference why the negotiators did not return to the table, Netanyahu explained: "We got nothing except for delusional demands from Hamas." The Israeli PM said demands included freeing "thousands of murderers" from Israeli jails as well as demands regarding a flashpoint holy site in Jerusalem known as the Temple Mount in Judaism and the Noble Sanctuary in Islam. "I wanted to say not a millimetre - but there was not a nanometer of change," added Netanyahu. Talks have been ongoing for the last few weeks but without any breakthrough. Tel Aviv is of the view that any settlement would be reached only through direct negotiations and without preconditions. As for the planned ground offensive in Rafah - the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip, housing 1.4 million displaced Palestinians, Netanyahu iterated that even if a truce deal was reached, his troops would march in. Netanyahu hit back at the critics saying those calling for Israel not to mount the military action were telling the country to "lose the war" against Hamas. "Even if we achieve it [truce deal], we will enter Rafah," he said. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: Hezbollah says Israel will pay 'in blood' for killing civilians Rafah crisis and Israel's stance According to UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, people were moving in large numbers towards Deir al-Balah, which is roughly 16 kilometres (10 miles) north of Rafah, anticipating the attack. He added that the situation was rapidly deteriorating in the region. “In Rafah, humanitarian conditions have become increasingly severe, with continued reports of people stopping aid trucks to take food,” said Dujarric. Israel says it will ensure the region is evacuated before it is targeted. However, experts say there is nowhere to go due to the vast devastation left behind. Also read: `Shame on him`, Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’ Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday (Feb 16) dismissed a motion brought by South Africa to impose urgent measures to safeguard Rafah. The top UN court said in a statement that the “perilous situation” in Rafah “demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures" that it ordered on January 26. However, the court warned that Israel “remains bound to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention.” (With inputs from agencies)

Truce talks halted over 'delusional' Hamas demands: Netanyahu

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<p>Qatar said on Saturday (Feb 17) that prospects for a new pause in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip were "not really promising." At the Munich Security Conference, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said efforts for a ceasefire had been complicated by the insistence of "a lot of countries" that any new truce involve further releases of hostages.</p>

<p>"The pattern in the last few days is not really very promising," Prime Minister Al-Thani added. His remarks came as Hamas threatened to suspend its involvement in talks unless relief supplies were brought into the north of Gaza. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a senior source from Hamas said, "Negotiations cannot be held while hunger is ravaging the Palestinian people."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/truce-talks-halted-over-delusional-hamas-demands-netanyahu-691327">Truce talks halted over 'delusional' Hamas demands: Netanyahu</a></strong></p>

<p>The Palestinian militant group's demands include a complete pause in fighting, the release of Hamas prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called the demands "ludicrous."</p>

<h2><strong>'We got nothing except for delusional demands'</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel had sent negotiators for truce talks in Cairo as requested by the United States but they did not go back for further talks because Hamas' demands were "delusional."</p>

<p>"We got nothing except for delusional demands from Hamas," Netanyahu told reporters, adding, that Israel would not give in to "international dictates" regarding a statehood agreement with the Palestinians.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Why are children paying the price of Netanyahu's war</strong></p>

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<p>He also said that Israeli representatives in Cairo sat and listened and there was no change. "I wanted to say not a millimetre - but there was not a nanometer of change."</p>

<p>Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on Oct 7 last year killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militant group also took 253 people hostage, though more than 100 of them were freed in a short-lived November truce.</p>

<p>Responding to the Hamas attack, Israel launched an air and ground offensive in Gaza that has killed more than 28,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UN likely to vote on ceasefire soon</strong></h2>

<p>In other latest news from the war, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is likely to vote on Tuesday on an Algerian push for the 15-member body to demand an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the conflict.</p>

<p>Algeria put forward an initial draft resolution more than two weeks ago. However, the US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield quickly said the text could jeopardize "sensitive negotiations" aimed at brokering a pause in the war.</p>

<p>To be adopted, the UNSC resolution needs at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes by the US, the United Kingdom (UK), France, China, or Russia.</p>


Qatar said on Saturday (Feb 17) that prospects for a new pause in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip were "not really promising." At the Munich Security Conference, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said efforts for a ceasefire had been complicated by the insistence of "a lot of countries" that any new truce involve further releases of hostages.

Qatar said on Saturday (Feb 17) that prospects for a new pause in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip were "not really promising." At the Munich Security Conference, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said efforts for a ceasefire had been complicated by the insistence of "a lot of countries" that any new truce involve further releases of hostages. "The pattern in the last few days is not really very promising," Prime Minister Al-Thani added. His remarks came as Hamas threatened to suspend its involvement in talks unless relief supplies were brought into the north of Gaza. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a senior source from Hamas said, "Negotiations cannot be held while hunger is ravaging the Palestinian people." Also read | Truce talks halted over 'delusional' Hamas demands: Netanyahu The Palestinian militant group's demands include a complete pause in fighting, the release of Hamas prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called the demands "ludicrous." 'We got nothing except for delusional demands' On Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel had sent negotiators for truce talks in Cairo as requested by the United States but they did not go back for further talks because Hamas' demands were "delusional." "We got nothing except for delusional demands from Hamas," Netanyahu told reporters, adding, that Israel would not give in to "international dictates" regarding a statehood agreement with the Palestinians. Also watch | Why are children paying the price of Netanyahu's war × He also said that Israeli representatives in Cairo sat and listened and there was no change. "I wanted to say not a millimetre - but there was not a nanometer of change." Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on Oct 7 last year killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militant group also took 253 people hostage, though more than 100 of them were freed in a short-lived November truce. Responding to the Hamas attack, Israel launched an air and ground offensive in Gaza that has killed more than 28,000 people. UN likely to vote on ceasefire soon In other latest news from the war, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is likely to vote on Tuesday on an Algerian push for the 15-member body to demand an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the conflict. Algeria put forward an initial draft resolution more than two weeks ago. However, the US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield quickly said the text could jeopardize "sensitive negotiations" aimed at brokering a pause in the war. To be adopted, the UNSC resolution needs at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes by the US, the United Kingdom (UK), France, China, or Russia.

Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP.

India Farmers' Protest: Farmers to stage 'dharna' in 4 states on Feb 21, demand ordinance over MSP

Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' protest march began on February 13. Haryana's Shambhu border remains centre of farmers' agitation. Borders around New Delhi remain heavily barricaded. A sectoral industrial strike and Grameen Bharat Bandh have been called by the workers and farmers on 16 February, Friday.

India's Farmers' Protest | A law on minimum support price for crops: Farmers' demands

Protest against election rigging grips Pakistan. Pakistan election that seemed concluded with results out has turned out as anything but with all the efforts put in by all parties, there is no sign of an Alliance to form a government and now the challenges for Pakistan's 241 million people looms larger than ever. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections: Protests against election rigging grip Pakistan | Top poll body probes rigging

<p>Alexei Navalny death: In a poignant social media post on Sunday (Feb 18), Yulia Navalny, the wife of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, declared her love alongside a touching image of the couple enjoying a moment together. The post on Instagram came two days after Navalny's death was announced by the jail authorities at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony in Kharp, where he was serving a 19-year sentence.</p>

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<p>According to the prison service, the 47-year-old former lawyer fell unconscious and succumbed to an undisclosed cause on Friday (Feb 16) after a walk at the remote penal facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Feb 16, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Yulia expressed her lack of trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government.</p>

<p>"We cannot trust Putin and the Putin government. They always lie," a solemn and tearful Yulia said while calling for the accountability of individuals allegedly responsible for her husband's death.</p>

<p>Amid the Kremlin's silence on the matter, Western leaders, led by US President Joe Biden, paid tribute to Navalny's courage and accused President Vladimir Putin, without citing evidence,&nbsp;for his death. Britain has also pledged consequences for Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438">Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible</a></strong></p>

<p>Yulia Navalnaya also called upon the international community to unite against what she labelled Russia's "horrible regime."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her statement resonated with the leaders in Munich. She said: "Both this regime and Vladimir Putin must bear personal responsibility for all the terrible things they have been doing to my country, to our country, Russia, in recent years."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately'</strong></p>

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<p>Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of 'sudden death syndrome'.</p>

<p>"When Alexei's lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalny's death was sudden death syndrome," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Alexei Navalny death: In a poignant social media post on Sunday (Feb 18), Yulia Navalny, the wife of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, declared her love alongside a touching image of the couple enjoying a moment together.

Alexei Navalny death: In a poignant social media post on Sunday (Feb 18), Yulia Navalny, the wife of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, declared her love alongside a touching image of the couple enjoying a moment together. The post on Instagram came two days after Navalny's death was announced by the jail authorities at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony in Kharp, where he was serving a 19-year sentence. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Юлия Навальная (@yulia_navalnaya) × According to the prison service, the 47-year-old former lawyer fell unconscious and succumbed to an undisclosed cause on Friday (Feb 16) after a walk at the remote penal facility. Earlier on Feb 16, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Yulia expressed her lack of trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government. "We cannot trust Putin and the Putin government. They always lie," a solemn and tearful Yulia said while calling for the accountability of individuals allegedly responsible for her husband's death. Amid the Kremlin's silence on the matter, Western leaders, led by US President Joe Biden, paid tribute to Navalny's courage and accused President Vladimir Putin, without citing evidence, for his death. Britain has also pledged consequences for Russia. Also read | Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible Yulia Navalnaya also called upon the international community to unite against what she labelled Russia's "horrible regime." Her statement resonated with the leaders in Munich. She said: "Both this regime and Vladimir Putin must bear personal responsibility for all the terrible things they have been doing to my country, to our country, Russia, in recent years." Also watch | Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately' × Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of 'sudden death syndrome'. "When Alexei's lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalny's death was sudden death syndrome," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin critic Navalny’s wife posts photo on social media for the first time after husband’s death

Just days after general elections were held in Pakistan there is still no clarity on who will form the government. In the latest Pakistan People's Party Chief Bilawal Zardari echoed concerns of election rigging in the polls held earlier. Bhutto claimed that he had proof to show that several candidates of his party the PPP had won polls in their respective constituencies but it was the PML-N candidates who were declared the winners. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Elections 2024: After Imran Khan, Bilawal Bhutto claims poll rigging

<p>When ex-US President Donald Trump woke up on Saturday (Feb 17), his total legal debt obligations had soared to over half a billion dollars. A day before, a New York Judge ruled that he must cough up more than $350 million plus pre-judgment interest for intentional financial fraud stretching more than a decade.</p>

<p>According to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who brought the case against Trump, the GOP leader may be forced to pay $463.9 million in total. “That represents $363.9 million in disgorgement, plus $100 million in interest, which will continue to increase every single day until it is paid,” she said in a press conference Friday night.</p>

<p>This penalty came weeks after he was ordered to pay $83.3 million to writer E. Jean Carroll for damaging her reputation after she accused him of sexual assault. A separate jury had awarded Carroll $5 million from Trump for sexual abuse and defamation last year.</p>

<p>Trump maintains he is innocent and has denied any wrongdoing. So, what comes next, and will he have to pay up the full amount?</p>

<h2><strong>How much money does Trump owe?</strong></h2>

<p>In the above two cases, Trump owes above $540 million in total, including interest. But that’s not all. He owes another $110,000 for refusing to comply with a subpoena in the civil fraud case and $15,000 for repeatedly attacking the judge's law clerk in violation of a gag order.</p>

<p>Additionally, he also owes $400,000 in legal fees to the New York Times after an unsuccessful suing attempt.</p>

<h2><strong>Can Trump seek relief in higher courts?</strong></h2>

<p>Yes, certainly! It’s common in the US to get such high-amount judgments reduced on appeals.</p>

<p>He is expected to appeal the $350 million civil fraud case with an intermediate-level court first. If Trump remains unsatisfied, he could try to get the case taken up by New York's top appellate court, though legal experts say that is unlikely.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump’s net worth and his ability to pay</strong></h2>

<p>Trump claims he is worth $10 billion. Although, according to independent estimates, including one by the New York attorney general, the figure is close to $2 billion.</p>

<p>However, it is not clear whether Trump has enough cash in hand to pay off the legal obligations. A 2021 financial statement revealed the GOP leader had just under $300 million in "cash and cash equivalents."</p>

<p>Since then, he has sold a number of assets including his New York golf course and his Washington DC hotel.</p>

<h2><strong>Will Trump declare bankruptcy?</strong></h2>

<p>As per Friday’s ruling, Trump would have to pay the amount even if the Trump Organization declares bankruptcy. But the equation changes if Trump himself does so.</p>

<p>In that scenario, which experts and observers deem drastic and extremely unlikely, the enforcement of the judgments against him will stop.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2p4BTzhgWhOAuBUpVTw9Je" data-ved="2ahUKEwiKm7_borWEAxUWxzgGHY6bDpMQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-should-be-disqualified-from-2024-presidential-race-for-insurrection-on-jan-6-say-lawyers-653257" jsname="YKoRaf">Trump should be disqualified from 2024 presidential race for ‘insurrection’ on Jan 6, say lawyers</a></strong></p>

<p>Trump in the past has bragged about the fact that he has never declared bankruptcy.</p>

<h2><strong>Can Trump use money from Republican fund?</strong></h2>

<p>Some are raising doubts whether Trump will use the campaign funds to pay his legal debt. Under federal election laws, that is illegal. However, he might still be able to use political action committees or PAC’s money for his expenses.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Trump's legal advisor Michael Cohen accidentally cited fake court cases generated by AI</strong></p>

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<p>In the last two years, Trump’s fundraising organisation has spent nearly $80 million on his legal fees. "The likelihood of the Federal Election Commission in its current configuration pursuing these violations is not terribly great," said Daniel Weiner, the director of the Brennan Center's Elections and Government Program.</p>

<p>Trump has already attracted criticism for eying to siphon campaign cash from the Republican National Committee (RNC).</p>

<p>Nikki Haley, Trump’s sole remaining rival for the Republican presidential nomination, said she won’t allow the RNC to be his personal piggy bank.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0_FhtN266qN9Sj_dHoBZE7" data-ved="2ahUKEwiKm7_borWEAxUWxzgGHY6bDpMQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/trumps-tricky-dual-purpose-campaign-win-elections-and-stay-out-of-prison-627405" jsname="YKoRaf">Trump’s tricky dual-purpose campaign – win elections and stay out of prison</a></strong></p>

<p>“I don’t want the RNC to become his piggy bank for his personal court cases,” she told CNN’s The Source.</p>

<p>“We’ve already seen him spend $50 million worth of campaign contributions … Now we see him trying to get control of the RNC so that he can continue not to have to pay his own legal fees,” she added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Trump has installed his loyalists, including his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, in leadership roles at the RNC.</p>

<h2><strong>What if Trump fails to repay?</strong></h2>

<p>Trump risks getting his assets seized and wages garnished if he fails to pay the legal judgments.</p>

<p>According to Weiner, "the president is not a king and the president's assets are not sacrosanct just because he happened to be the president."</p>

<p>According to University of Michigan law professor Will Thomas, the courts enjoy great powers, especially when someone like Trump is involved.</p>

<p>"The court might say we're going to freeze your bank account. Or even worse, they could say, 'We're seizing Trump Tower and we're putting it up for sale,'" he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


When ex-US President Donald Trump woke up on Saturday (Feb 17), his total legal debt obligations had soared to over half a billion dollars. A day before, a New York Judge ruled that he must cough up more than $350 million plus pre-judgment interest for intentional financial fraud stretching more than a decade.

When ex-US President Donald Trump woke up on Saturday (Feb 17), his total legal debt obligations had soared to over half a billion dollars. A day before, a New York Judge ruled that he must cough up more than $350 million plus pre-judgment interest for intentional financial fraud stretching more than a decade. According to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who brought the case against Trump, the GOP leader may be forced to pay $463.9 million in total. “That represents $363.9 million in disgorgement, plus $100 million in interest, which will continue to increase every single day until it is paid,” she said in a press conference Friday night. This penalty came weeks after he was ordered to pay $83.3 million to writer E. Jean Carroll for damaging her reputation after she accused him of sexual assault. A separate jury had awarded Carroll $5 million from Trump for sexual abuse and defamation last year. Trump maintains he is innocent and has denied any wrongdoing. So, what comes next, and will he have to pay up the full amount? How much money does Trump owe? In the above two cases, Trump owes above $540 million in total, including interest. But that’s not all. He owes another $110,000 for refusing to comply with a subpoena in the civil fraud case and $15,000 for repeatedly attacking the judge's law clerk in violation of a gag order. Additionally, he also owes $400,000 in legal fees to the New York Times after an unsuccessful suing attempt. Can Trump seek relief in higher courts? Yes, certainly! It’s common in the US to get such high-amount judgments reduced on appeals. He is expected to appeal the $350 million civil fraud case with an intermediate-level court first. If Trump remains unsatisfied, he could try to get the case taken up by New York's top appellate court, though legal experts say that is unlikely. Trump’s net worth and his ability to pay Trump claims he is worth $10 billion. Although, according to independent estimates, including one by the New York attorney general, the figure is close to $2 billion. However, it is not clear whether Trump has enough cash in hand to pay off the legal obligations. A 2021 financial statement revealed the GOP leader had just under $300 million in "cash and cash equivalents." Since then, he has sold a number of assets including his New York golf course and his Washington DC hotel. Will Trump declare bankruptcy? As per Friday’s ruling, Trump would have to pay the amount even if the Trump Organization declares bankruptcy. But the equation changes if Trump himself does so. In that scenario, which experts and observers deem drastic and extremely unlikely, the enforcement of the judgments against him will stop. Also read: Trump should be disqualified from 2024 presidential race for ‘insurrection’ on Jan 6, say lawyers Trump in the past has bragged about the fact that he has never declared bankruptcy. Can Trump use money from Republican fund? Some are raising doubts whether Trump will use the campaign funds to pay his legal debt. Under federal election laws, that is illegal. However, he might still be able to use political action committees or PAC’s money for his expenses. Watch: US: Trump's legal advisor Michael Cohen accidentally cited fake court cases generated by AI × In the last two years, Trump’s fundraising organisation has spent nearly $80 million on his legal fees. "The likelihood of the Federal Election Commission in its current configuration pursuing these violations is not terribly great," said Daniel Weiner, the director of the Brennan Center's Elections and Government Program. Trump has already attracted criticism for eying to siphon campaign cash from the Republican National Committee (RNC). Nikki Haley, Trump’s sole remaining rival for the Republican presidential nomination, said she won’t allow the RNC to be his personal piggy bank. Also read: Trump’s tricky dual-purpose campaign – win elections and stay out of prison “I don’t want the RNC to become his piggy bank for his personal court cases,” she told CNN’s The Source. “We’ve already seen him spend $50 million worth of campaign contributions … Now we see him trying to get control of the RNC so that he can continue not to have to pay his own legal fees,” she added. Meanwhile, Trump has installed his loyalists, including his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, in leadership roles at the RNC. What if Trump fails to repay? Trump risks getting his assets seized and wages garnished if he fails to pay the legal judgments. According to Weiner, "the president is not a king and the president's assets are not sacrosanct just because he happened to be the president." According to University of Michigan law professor Will Thomas, the courts enjoy great powers, especially when someone like Trump is involved. "The court might say we're going to freeze your bank account. Or even worse, they could say, 'We're seizing Trump Tower and we're putting it up for sale,'" he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Will Trump declare bankruptcy as his legal debt soars over $500 million?

Pakistan Elections 2024: Who will form the government in Pakistan?

<p>Hours after Kyiv announced it had pulled out troops from Avdiivka,&nbsp;Russia on Saturday (Feb 17) said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city. In other news,&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that truce talks with Hamas had come to a halt due to 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-congratulates-military-as-russia-assumes-full-control-of-ukraines-avdiivka-691344"><strong>Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka</strong></a></p>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an&nbsp;important victory", referring to its troops taking full control of the&nbsp;eastern Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Avdiivka.&nbsp;<br />
<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/15/412282-untitled-design-2024-02-15t134958815.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/truce-talks-halted-over-delusional-hamas-demands-netanyahu-691327"><strong>Truce talks halted over 'delusional' Hamas demands: Netanyahu</strong></a></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed that the truce talks with Hamas were halted over the 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/08/410696-yearender-2023-31.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-announces-18-month-visa-extension-scheme-for-ukrainians-691328"><strong>UK announces 18-month visa extension scheme for Ukrainians</strong></a></p>

<p>Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/03/24/249828-refugees-us.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-thai-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-leaves-prison-hospital-on-parole-reports-691326"><strong>Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra leaves prison hospital on parole: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/01/376831-2023-09-01t085443z2lynxmpej801f3rtroptp4thailand-politics-thaksin.JPG?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/munich-security-conference-2024-in-focus-wars-in-west-asia-and-ukraine-691348"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Munich Security Conference 2024 | In focus: Wars in West Asia and Ukraine</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Hours after Kyiv announced it had pulled out troops from Avdiivka, Russia on Saturday (Feb 17) said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city. In other news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that truce talks with Hamas had come to a halt due to 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit.

Hours after Kyiv announced it had pulled out troops from Avdiivka, Russia on Saturday (Feb 17) said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city. In other news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that truce talks with Hamas had come to a halt due to 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit. Click on headlines to read more: Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an important victory", referring to its troops taking full control of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. Truce talks halted over 'delusional' Hamas demands: Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed that the truce talks with Hamas were halted over the 'delusional' demands by the terror outfit. UK announces 18-month visa extension scheme for Ukrainians Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18). Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra leaves prison hospital on parole: Reports Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports. Watch | Munich Security Conference 2024 | In focus: Wars in West Asia and Ukraine ×

Morning news brief: Russia takes control of Avdiivka; Netanyahu calls out 'delusional' Hamas, and more

Russia claims full control of Ukraine's eastern city Avdiivka. Ukraine's General Oleksandr Tarnavsky early on Saturday said that the Ukrainian forces withdrew from the eastern town of Avdiivka, where the situation had considerably deteriorated in the past few days. The step was taken by Ukraine, hours after it signed the French security deal. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Zelenskyy urges US & other allies to support Ukraine

<p>Hours after Kyiv announced it had pulled out troops from Avdiivka, Russia on Saturday (Feb 17) said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city. Kyiv said it had taken the decision to save the lives of its soldiers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an&nbsp;important victory".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;capture of Avdiivka, which lies in the Donetsk region of Ukraine, represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict could drag on.</p>

<p>Former Ukrainian Armed Forces chief&nbsp;General Valery Zaluzhnyi had warned in December last year that&nbsp;Avdiivka would be taken over by the 'enemies' due to their persistence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The enemy has the ability to concentrate its forces, including artillery and aviation, in one direction or another. And they can make it so that in two-three months the town [Avdiivka] will have the same fate as Bakhmut,” said&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's new military chief and&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi's successor, Oleksandr Syrsky&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi explained the decision to recall his troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I decided to withdraw our units from the city and switch to defence on more favourable lines,” said Syrsky on Facebook.</p>

<p>"Our soldiers performed their military duty with dignity, did everything possible to destroy the best Russian military units and inflicted significant losses on the enemy," he added.</p>

<p>Kremlin has claimed Avdiivka to be part of Russia since a 2022 annexation that remains unrecognised by nearly all United Nations members. In July 2014, the region briefly fell into the hands of pro-Russian separatists before returning to Ukrainian control.</p>

<p>Prior to the war, the city housed around 30,000 inhabitants but since then, most of the houses have been destroyed and fewer than 1,000 residents remain, per local officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-announces-withdrawal-from-avdiivka-big-win-for-moscow-world-news-691300"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-announces-withdrawal-from-avdiivka-big-win-for-moscow-world-news-691300/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's war struggles</strong></h2>

<p>Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads.</p>

<p>With the weapons arsenal and funding now drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-withdraws-forces-from-avdiivka-hours-after-signing-french-security-deal-691084"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal</strong></a></p>

<p>US lawmakers are engaged in a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies&nbsp;but friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hours after Kyiv announced it had pulled out troops from Avdiivka, Russia on Saturday (Feb 17) said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city. Kyiv said it had taken the decision to save the lives of its soldiers.

Hours after Kyiv announced it had pulled out troops from Avdiivka, Russia on Saturday (Feb 17) said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city. Kyiv said it had taken the decision to save the lives of its soldiers. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an important victory". The capture of Avdiivka, which lies in the Donetsk region of Ukraine, represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict could drag on. Former Ukrainian Armed Forces chief General Valery Zaluzhnyi had warned in December last year that Avdiivka would be taken over by the 'enemies' due to their persistence. "The enemy has the ability to concentrate its forces, including artillery and aviation, in one direction or another. And they can make it so that in two-three months the town [Avdiivka] will have the same fate as Bakhmut,” said Zaluzhnyi at the time. Ukraine's new military chief and Zaluzhnyi's successor, Oleksandr Syrsky Zaluzhnyi explained the decision to recall his troops. "I decided to withdraw our units from the city and switch to defence on more favourable lines,” said Syrsky on Facebook. "Our soldiers performed their military duty with dignity, did everything possible to destroy the best Russian military units and inflicted significant losses on the enemy," he added. Kremlin has claimed Avdiivka to be part of Russia since a 2022 annexation that remains unrecognised by nearly all United Nations members. In July 2014, the region briefly fell into the hands of pro-Russian separatists before returning to Ukrainian control. Prior to the war, the city housed around 30,000 inhabitants but since then, most of the houses have been destroyed and fewer than 1,000 residents remain, per local officials. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News Ukraine's war struggles Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads. With the weapons arsenal and funding now drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. Also read | Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal US lawmakers are engaged in a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies but friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka

The India-China relations are back in focus on account of two major developments, first reports on the meeting between Dr. S Jaishankar and Chinese counterpart Wang and reports of Occupational activity along the Lac. In the latest external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang met on the sidelines of the Munich security conference. This is the first in-person meeting between the two in about 6 months. Watch to know more!

India's Jaishankar meets China's Wang at Munich Conference | China's moves along LAC raise concerns

<p>Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's 19-year-old son Marco Troper has died, aged 19, informed his family. Troper was found dead in a&nbsp;University of California, Berkeley campus dormitory where he was a student.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the University of California Police Department (UCPD), Troper was found dead when authorities responded to reports of an unresponsive student in the dorm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Berkeley Fire Department notified UCPD that they were attempting life-saving measures on the victim," said UCPS in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"UCPD responded, and Berkeley Fire Department pronounced the person deceased."</p>

<p>Based on the initial investigation, authorities said no signs of foul play were found at the scene. Notably, Troper had&nbsp;started the second semester of his freshman year at UC Berkeley where he was majoring in math. He was also part of the&nbsp;Zeta Psi fraternity at the campus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Troper's grieving grandmother Esther Wojcicki took to Facebook to mourn her grandson, saying he was taken away too soon.</p>

<p>"Tragedy hit my family yesterday. My beloved grandson Marco Troper, age 19 passed away yesterday. Our family is devastated beyond comprehension," wrote Esther.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Marco's life was cut too short. And we are all devastated, thinking about all the opportunities and life experiences that he will miss and we will miss together. Marco, we all love you and miss you more than you will ever know," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Esther, however, in an interview to a US media outlet suggested that her grandson may have died from a drug overdose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He ingested a drug, and we don't know what was in it. … One thing we do know, it was a drug," Esther Wojcicki told SFGATE.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-are-indian-students-dying-being-attacked-in-the-us-688002"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Why are Indian students dying, being attacked in the US?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Susan&nbsp;quits as YouTube CEO</strong></h2>

<p>Susan, one of the most famous women in tech and part of the original Google employees group, exited the company as YouTube CEO last year after 25 years on the job.</p>

<p>Citing her reason for the departure,&nbsp;Wojcicki said she wanted to focus on “family, health, and personal projects”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-ceo-susan-wojcicki-steps-down-after-nine-years-indian-american-neal-mohan-to-replace-her-562865"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Who is Neal Mohan? Indian-American to replace YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki as she steps down</strong></a></p>

<p>Alongside her husband Dennis Troper,&nbsp;Wojcicki has four children. She is yet to issue a statement following her son's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's 19-year-old son Marco Troper has died, aged 19, informed his family. Troper was found dead in a University of California, Berkeley campus dormitory where he was a student.

Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's 19-year-old son Marco Troper has died, aged 19, informed his family. Troper was found dead in a University of California, Berkeley campus dormitory where he was a student. According to the University of California Police Department (UCPD), Troper was found dead when authorities responded to reports of an unresponsive student in the dorm. "Berkeley Fire Department notified UCPD that they were attempting life-saving measures on the victim," said UCPS in a statement. "UCPD responded, and Berkeley Fire Department pronounced the person deceased." Based on the initial investigation, authorities said no signs of foul play were found at the scene. Notably, Troper had started the second semester of his freshman year at UC Berkeley where he was majoring in math. He was also part of the Zeta Psi fraternity at the campus. Troper's grieving grandmother Esther Wojcicki took to Facebook to mourn her grandson, saying he was taken away too soon. "Tragedy hit my family yesterday. My beloved grandson Marco Troper, age 19 passed away yesterday. Our family is devastated beyond comprehension," wrote Esther. "Marco's life was cut too short. And we are all devastated, thinking about all the opportunities and life experiences that he will miss and we will miss together. Marco, we all love you and miss you more than you will ever know," she added. Esther, however, in an interview to a US media outlet suggested that her grandson may have died from a drug overdose. "He ingested a drug, and we don't know what was in it. … One thing we do know, it was a drug," Esther Wojcicki told SFGATE. Watch | Gravitas | Why are Indian students dying, being attacked in the US? × Susan quits as YouTube CEO Susan, one of the most famous women in tech and part of the original Google employees group, exited the company as YouTube CEO last year after 25 years on the job. Citing her reason for the departure, Wojcicki said she wanted to focus on “family, health, and personal projects”. Also read | Who is Neal Mohan? Indian-American to replace YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki as she steps down Alongside her husband Dennis Troper, Wojcicki has four children. She is yet to issue a statement following her son's death. (With inputs from agencies)

Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's son found dead in UC Berkeley dorm

Since the time Canada alleged India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani extremist leader diplomatic ties between the two Nations have taken a nose dive. The expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats from India has had an unexpected Fallout. Student visas processed by Canada in the year 2023 dipped by a whopping 42%. As per the immigration refugees and citizenship Canada portal when compared to October to December in the year 2022 the number of Indian student permit applications finalized by Canada in the last quarter of 2023 has dipped massively. Watch to know more!

Canada reduces intake of Indian students | Student visas processed by Canada dropped by 42%

The GSLV-F14 carrying INSAT-3D meteorological satellite was successfully launched on Saturday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

ISRO successfully launches INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the valedictory address on the second day of the BJPs national council meeting in New Delhi. The big focus was infusing the cadre of the BJP to prepare for general elections in India due in April or May, the date is not set yet. He set targets for the next 100 days and streamlined goals. Watch to know more!

India: PM Modi outlines 2024 general election strategy at BJP's National Council meet in New Delhi

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<p>Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Saturday (Feb 17) launched a sneaker line, a day after he was fined nearly $355 million in the New York civil fraud case, American media reported. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Trump unveiled "Trump Sneakers" at the Sneaker Con in Philadelphia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that Trump, 77, was met with boos as well as cheers at the Philadelphia Convention Center as he introduced what he called the first official Trump footwear. “This is something I’ve been talking about for 12 years, 13 years, and I think it’s going to be a big success,” he said.</p>

<p>Some people at the event held signs that read “SNEAKERHEADS LOVE TRUMP.”</p>

<h2><strong>Sneakers sold out on website</strong></h2>

<p>The sneakers, gold lame high tops with an American flag detail on the back, are being sold as “Never Surrender High-Tops” for $399 <strong><a href="https://gettrumpsneakers.com/">on a new website </a></strong>(called Trump Sneakers) that also sells Trump-branded “Victory47” cologne and perfume for $99 a bottle.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a 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">New York fraud case: Trump ordered to pay nearly $355 mn, barred from doing business in state for 3 yrs</a></strong></p>

<p>A visit to the website showed that the sneakers were sold out, as there were only 1,000 pairs available. The website said it has no connection to Trump’s presidential campaign.</p>

<p>This is not the first money-making venture that the 77-year-old Republican announced since launching his third campaign for the White House in 2022. In 2023, Trump reported making between $100,000 and $1 million for a series of digital trading cards that portrayed him, through photo editing, in a series of cartoon-like images, the Associated Press reported.</p>

<p>Trump Sneakers is run by CIC Ventures LLC, a company that Trump reported owning in his 2023 financial disclosure.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump fined in New York fraud case</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Trump was ordered to pay $354.9 million to the state of New York in penalties for fraudulently overstating his net worth to dupe lenders, a judge ruled. Justice Arthur Engoron also banned Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years.</p>

<p>In his ruling, Engoron said that Trump and the other defendants in the civil fraud case were incapable of admitting the error of their ways.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US VP Kamal Harris warns against Republican Trump's World view</strong></p>

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<p>The case came into light after a lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James accused Trump and his family businesses of overstating his net worth by as much as $3.6 billion a year over a decade to fool bankers into giving him better loan terms.</p>

<p>Addressing his supporters in Michigan on Saturday, Trump said the fraud fine was an election interference ploy.</p>

<p>"The decision yesterday in New York, you may have read about it... crooked judge. Crooked judge, he's a crooked judge... (The decision) by a radical left-wing judge was a lawless and unconstitutional atrocity that set fire to our laws like no one has ever seen in this country before. That happens in banana republics. It doesn't happen in this country. The case is a complete and total sham. It's a sham case," said Trump.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Saturday (Feb 17) launched a sneaker line, a day after he was fined nearly $355 million in the New York civil fraud case, American media reported.

Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Saturday (Feb 17) launched a sneaker line, a day after he was fined nearly $355 million in the New York civil fraud case, American media reported. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Trump unveiled "Trump Sneakers" at the Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. The report said that Trump, 77, was met with boos as well as cheers at the Philadelphia Convention Center as he introduced what he called the first official Trump footwear. “This is something I’ve been talking about for 12 years, 13 years, and I think it’s going to be a big success,” he said. Some people at the event held signs that read “SNEAKERHEADS LOVE TRUMP.” Sneakers sold out on website The sneakers, gold lame high tops with an American flag detail on the back, are being sold as “Never Surrender High-Tops” for $399 on a new website (called Trump Sneakers) that also sells Trump-branded “Victory47” cologne and perfume for $99 a bottle. Also read | New York fraud case: Trump ordered to pay nearly $355 mn, barred from doing business in state for 3 yrs A visit to the website showed that the sneakers were sold out, as there were only 1,000 pairs available. The website said it has no connection to Trump’s presidential campaign. This is not the first money-making venture that the 77-year-old Republican announced since launching his third campaign for the White House in 2022. In 2023, Trump reported making between $100,000 and $1 million for a series of digital trading cards that portrayed him, through photo editing, in a series of cartoon-like images, the Associated Press reported. Trump Sneakers is run by CIC Ventures LLC, a company that Trump reported owning in his 2023 financial disclosure. Trump fined in New York fraud case On Friday, Trump was ordered to pay $354.9 million to the state of New York in penalties for fraudulently overstating his net worth to dupe lenders, a judge ruled. Justice Arthur Engoron also banned Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years. In his ruling, Engoron said that Trump and the other defendants in the civil fraud case were incapable of admitting the error of their ways. Also watch | US VP Kamal Harris warns against Republican Trump's World view × The case came into light after a lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James accused Trump and his family businesses of overstating his net worth by as much as $3.6 billion a year over a decade to fool bankers into giving him better loan terms. Addressing his supporters in Michigan on Saturday, Trump said the fraud fine was an election interference ploy. "The decision yesterday in New York, you may have read about it... crooked judge. Crooked judge, he's a crooked judge... (The decision) by a radical left-wing judge was a lawless and unconstitutional atrocity that set fire to our laws like no one has ever seen in this country before. That happens in banana republics. It doesn't happen in this country. The case is a complete and total sham. It's a sham case," said Trump. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump launches sneaker line a day after he was fined in New York civil fraud case

The Indian Air Force (IAF) at Pokhran range demonstrated its firing capabilities by launching missiles on the dummy targets of the enemy on Saturday at Vayu Shakti exercise. Rafale fired Myka missile from air to air, while Tejas fired R73 missile on the targets. Indigenous missiles Aakash, Samar were fired from surface to air and destroyed the enemy hideouts.

IAF conducts Exercise Vayu Shakti-24 at Pokhran

Plans are in motion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan later this month, marking what is expected to be his final foreign trip of his current term. This visit holds significance against the backdrop of strengthening ties with the new government in Thimphu and ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity between India and Bhutan.

Indian PM's last foreign trip during second term likely to be Bhutan

Egypt constructing wall near its border with Gaza strip. Israeli troops launch raid on Nasser hospital in southern Gaza. Staff say one person killed and eight injured in attack as un aid chief warns Rafah offensive could cause refugee exodus into Egypt.

Israel-Hamas war: Satellite images show construction of wall on Egypt-Rafah border

World mourns Russian opposition leader's death. Russian police officials detain over 100 people at memorials organised for kremlin critic leader's death. Meanwhile, Navalny's team says Russian investigators are lying to keep the leader's body. Watch to know more!

Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team accuses Russia of 'hiding' body | Latest News

<p>Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension&nbsp;to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide&nbsp;“certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK.</p>

<p>“This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the&nbsp;extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-announces-withdrawal-from-avdiivka-big-win-for-moscow-world-news-691300"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Ukraine's struggles in the war</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed&nbsp;pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives.</p>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an&nbsp;important victory".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the&nbsp;capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict&nbsp;could drag on.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-withdraws-forces-from-avdiivka-hours-after-signing-french-security-deal-691084">Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads.</p>

<p>With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).

Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18). Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide “certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK. “This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians. Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war. Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News × Ukraine's struggles in the war The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an important victory". Notably, the capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict could drag on. Also read | Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads. With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through. (With inputs from agencies)

UK announces 18-month visa extension scheme for Ukrainians

Promoting Maritime cooperation and security India's Vishakhapatnam is all set to host Milan 2024. The flagship International Naval exercise under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command of the Navy. At least 50 countries have confirmed participation in the event. The Indian Navy will host its largest-ever multinational exercise - "Milan - 2024" - from February 19 to February 27. Watch to know more.

Indian Navy to host 'Milan 2024' mega naval exercise in Visakhapatnam

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