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

Cuban sugar magnate Juan Pedro Baro spared no expense when it came to building the immense marble tomb of his one true love in Havana's Colon cemetery, an unlikely repository of past passions.

Baro's adulterous romance with one of Cuba's most beautiful women, Cataline Lasa, who died in 1930, scandalised high society, but lives on in the luxurious touches of her Art Deco mausoleum.

"The cemetery is full of love stories," said Mario Darias, a 66-year-old singer-songwriter who has written several books about the Havana graveyard, founded in 1876 and which extends over around 50 hectares (120 acres) in the heart of the city.&nbsp;

With its elaborate sculptures and architecture, the cemetery is considered an open-air museum, housing the final remains of independence heroes, writers, musicians, painters and famous doctors.&nbsp;

But it is also a place where loves -- some shocking, some hidden, some thwarted -- are immortalized.

Lasa's tomb represents one of Cuba's most famous love stories.

The upper-class beauty was married to the son of Cuba's vice president when she met and fell in love with Baro.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wion-business-wrap-valentines-dayworkers-strike-bitcoins-surge-and-more-689855">WION Business Wrap | Valentine's day workers' strike, Bitcoin's surge and more</a>

"High society took sides in this matter and turned their backs on them," explained Darias.&nbsp;

The two lovers fled to Paris where they lived until 1917, when Pope Benedict XV granted their request to have Lasa's marriage annulled.

The pair returned to Havana where they lived until Lasa fell ill and died aged 55.

Her mausoleum, currently under restoration, is made of white marble and black granite, and topped with glass roses made by French glassmaker Rene Lalique, who died in 1945.

<h2>A scandalous age difference&nbsp;</h2>

Elsewhere lies the tomb of another pair of lovers who raised eyebrows in their time, a teacher and student with a 30-year age difference.

Modesto Canto (1890-1977) is buried alongside his much younger wife Margarita Pacheco (1920-1959) in a tomb bearing the sculptured busts of the pair and the phrase "united by eternal love."

"Many people were opposed to their relationship. Everyone said she was going to be widowed very soon, but she died first," said Darias.

Not far away stands the tomb of Amelia Goyri who died while eight months pregnant at the age of 24 in 1901, and was buried with her baby atop her legs, as was the custom.&nbsp;

Her bereaved husband began a dedication to her tomb so intense that its emotion was contagious, and visitors to the cemetery began stopping to pay their respects to her as well.

Watch:&nbsp;Celebrating Valentines Day | Chocolates hearts &amp; lovers' delight

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/celebrating-valentines-day-chocolates-hearts-lovers-delight-690107/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A two-meter-high white marble statue of her was erected, but it was in 1914 that a myth was born and she earned her nickname "La Milagrosa," the miraculous one.

When her tomb was opened that year, she is reported to have been found intact, with her baby in her arms.

Since then Cubans have flocked to her tomb to leave offerings and wish for luck, whether to conceive or protect a child, for health, or a school exam.

Leticia Mojarrieta, 56, knows this love story and complies with the ritual of never turning one's back on the sculpture -- which Goyri's husband used to do during four decades of visits to her grave.

She is asking for protection for her daughter-in-law, who is pregnant and has just emigrated to the United States.&nbsp;

"We detected a little liquid in the baby's chest. I came to ask for help" from La Milagrosa, she told AFP.

Cuban sugar magnate Juan Pedro Baro spared no expense when it came to building the immense marble tomb of his one true love in Havana's Colon cemetery, an unlikely repository of past passions.

Cuban sugar magnate Juan Pedro Baro spared no expense when it came to building the immense marble tomb of his one true love in Havana's Colon cemetery, an unlikely repository of past passions. Baro's adulterous romance with one of Cuba's most beautiful women, Cataline Lasa, who died in 1930, scandalised high society, but lives on in the luxurious touches of her Art Deco mausoleum. "The cemetery is full of love stories," said Mario Darias, a 66-year-old singer-songwriter who has written several books about the Havana graveyard, founded in 1876 and which extends over around 50 hectares (120 acres) in the heart of the city. With its elaborate sculptures and architecture, the cemetery is considered an open-air museum, housing the final remains of independence heroes, writers, musicians, painters and famous doctors. But it is also a place where loves -- some shocking, some hidden, some thwarted -- are immortalized. Lasa's tomb represents one of Cuba's most famous love stories. The upper-class beauty was married to the son of Cuba's vice president when she met and fell in love with Baro. Also Read: WION Business Wrap | Valentine's day workers' strike, Bitcoin's surge and more "High society took sides in this matter and turned their backs on them," explained Darias. The two lovers fled to Paris where they lived until 1917, when Pope Benedict XV granted their request to have Lasa's marriage annulled. The pair returned to Havana where they lived until Lasa fell ill and died aged 55. Her mausoleum, currently under restoration, is made of white marble and black granite, and topped with glass roses made by French glassmaker Rene Lalique, who died in 1945. A scandalous age difference Elsewhere lies the tomb of another pair of lovers who raised eyebrows in their time, a teacher and student with a 30-year age difference. Modesto Canto (1890-1977) is buried alongside his much younger wife Margarita Pacheco (1920-1959) in a tomb bearing the sculptured busts of the pair and the phrase "united by eternal love." "Many people were opposed to their relationship. Everyone said she was going to be widowed very soon, but she died first," said Darias. Not far away stands the tomb of Amelia Goyri who died while eight months pregnant at the age of 24 in 1901, and was buried with her baby atop her legs, as was the custom. Her bereaved husband began a dedication to her tomb so intense that its emotion was contagious, and visitors to the cemetery began stopping to pay their respects to her as well. Watch: Celebrating Valentines Day | Chocolates hearts & lovers' delight A two-meter-high white marble statue of her was erected, but it was in 1914 that a myth was born and she earned her nickname "La Milagrosa," the miraculous one. When her tomb was opened that year, she is reported to have been found intact, with her baby in her arms. Since then Cubans have flocked to her tomb to leave offerings and wish for luck, whether to conceive or protect a child, for health, or a school exam. Leticia Mojarrieta, 56, knows this love story and complies with the ritual of never turning one's back on the sculpture -- which Goyri's husband used to do during four decades of visits to her grave. She is asking for protection for her daughter-in-law, who is pregnant and has just emigrated to the United States. "We detected a little liquid in the baby's chest. I came to ask for help" from La Milagrosa, she told AFP.

Valentine's Day: The lovers who left their heart in Havana cemetery

The suspense in Pakistan's political drama is nearing its end in a major political development. A six-party alliance has been announced to form a government at the centre, according to sources.

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Indonesians have begun voting in their presidential polls current defense minister Prabowo Subianto is the front runner in the elections despite concerns over his human rights record and claims of improper support from outgoing leader Joko Widodo. Over 200 million people in the Southeast Asian Nation are eligible to cast their ballots and choose their next President. Indonesia elections are being touted as the world's largest single elections. Watch to know more!

Indonesia Elections: Over 200 million Indonesians voters head to the polls

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Feb 13) once again slammed his predecessor Donald Trump for his comments regarding NATO. The Republican leader had said he would 'encourage Russia to attack allies' if they failed to fulfil their financial obligations to the military coalition. In other news, Indonesia went to presidential polls early in the morning&nbsp;in what is being regarded as&nbsp;the world's biggest single-day election

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-calls-trumps-criticism-of-nato-as-dumb-shameful-690064">US President Biden calls Trump’s criticism of NATO as ‘dumb’, ‘shameful’</a>

United States President Joe Biden launched a scathing attack on former president Donald Trump for his criticism of NATO, calling it "dumb", "shameful" and "un-American".

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-votes-to-choose-next-president-in-worlds-biggest-single-day-election-690052">Indonesia votes to choose next president in world's biggest single-day election</a>

Millions of Indonesians geared up to reach the polling booths&nbsp;early on Wednesday (Feb 14) morning to vote for the next president as&nbsp;Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto took the lead in various opinion polls.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-homeland-security-chief-alejandro-mayorkas-impeached-in-republican-majority-house-690050">Biden's Homeland security chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached in Republican-majority House</a>

The Republican-majority US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) impeached Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas. The&nbsp;GOP-majority House&nbsp;voted 214 to 213 for the measure, after an earlier attempt failed last week.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-secretary-lloyd-austin-released-from-hospital-690049">US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin released from hospital, resumes work: Pentagon</a>

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has been released from hospital and has resumed his duties, informed the Pentagon on Tuesday (Feb 13).&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-senate-passes-95-billion-ukraine-aid-bill-sends-to-house-690070">Watch |&nbsp;US Senate passes $95 billion Ukraine aid bill, sends to House</a>

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US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Feb 13) once again slammed his predecessor Donald Trump for his comments regarding NATO. The Republican leader had said he would 'encourage Russia to attack allies' if they failed to fulfil their financial obligations to the military coalition.

US President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Feb 13) once again slammed his predecessor Donald Trump for his comments regarding NATO. The Republican leader had said he would 'encourage Russia to attack allies' if they failed to fulfil their financial obligations to the military coalition. In other news, Indonesia went to presidential polls early in the morning in what is being regarded as the world's biggest single-day election Click on headlines to read more: US President Biden calls Trump’s criticism of NATO as ‘dumb’, ‘shameful’ United States President Joe Biden launched a scathing attack on former president Donald Trump for his criticism of NATO, calling it "dumb", "shameful" and "un-American". Indonesia votes to choose next president in world's biggest single-day election Millions of Indonesians geared up to reach the polling booths early on Wednesday (Feb 14) morning to vote for the next president as Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto took the lead in various opinion polls. Biden's Homeland security chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached in Republican-majority House The Republican-majority US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) impeached Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas. The GOP-majority House voted 214 to 213 for the measure, after an earlier attempt failed last week. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin released from hospital, resumes work: Pentagon US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has been released from hospital and has resumed his duties, informed the Pentagon on Tuesday (Feb 13). Watch | US Senate passes $95 billion Ukraine aid bill, sends to House ×

Morning news brief: Biden criticises Trump over NATO comments; Indonesia votes for new prez, and more

A critically endangered western lowland gorilla has been born at London Zoo, the second of the apes to be born at the facility in a month, the zoo said on Tuesday.

Western lowland gorillas, which inhabit dense and largely remote rainforests in west and central Africa, are classified as having a high risk of becoming extinct.

Numbers have declined by more than 60 percent over the last 25 years, due largely to deforestation, poaching and disease, according to the Zoological Society of London.

The baby, whose sex has not been confirmed, was born on February 8 to mother Effie and was delivered in the gym area of Gorilla Kingdom.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/once-nearly-extinct-worlds-rarest-insect-now-thrives-in-thousands-in-us-679894">Once nearly extinct, world’s ‘rarest insect’ now thrives in thousands in US</a>

The baby gorilla's birth comes three and a half weeks after that of another infant to a gorilla called Mjukuu.

"We're over the moon to have a second gorilla infant born here at London Zoo in the space of a month," London Zoo's primates section manager Kathryn Sanders said.

"These babies are an important addition to the conservation breeding programme for this endangered species, and just as crucially, great additions to our troop."

Western lowland gorillas, which have brown-grey coats and auburn chests, are slightly smaller than other gorilla subspecies.

Watch:&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Animals relish Christmas treats at Zoo in London

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-animals-relish-christmas-treats-at-zoo-in-london-539166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

They also have wider skulls with more pronounced brow ridges and smaller ears.

They live in family troops, led by a male silverback, known to reach heights of up to 6 ft (182 cm) when standing upright.

The exact number of western lowland gorillas is not known as they inhabit some of the most dense and remote rainforests in Africa but the World Wildlife Fund estimates there could be about 100,000.&nbsp;

A critically endangered western lowland gorilla has been born at London Zoo, the second of the apes to be born at the facility in a month, the zoo said on Tuesday.

A critically endangered western lowland gorilla has been born at London Zoo, the second of the apes to be born at the facility in a month, the zoo said on Tuesday. Western lowland gorillas, which inhabit dense and largely remote rainforests in west and central Africa, are classified as having a high risk of becoming extinct. Numbers have declined by more than 60 percent over the last 25 years, due largely to deforestation, poaching and disease, according to the Zoological Society of London. The baby, whose sex has not been confirmed, was born on February 8 to mother Effie and was delivered in the gym area of Gorilla Kingdom. Also Read: Once nearly extinct, world’s ‘rarest insect’ now thrives in thousands in US The baby gorilla's birth comes three and a half weeks after that of another infant to a gorilla called Mjukuu. "We're over the moon to have a second gorilla infant born here at London Zoo in the space of a month," London Zoo's primates section manager Kathryn Sanders said. "These babies are an important addition to the conservation breeding programme for this endangered species, and just as crucially, great additions to our troop." Western lowland gorillas, which have brown-grey coats and auburn chests, are slightly smaller than other gorilla subspecies. Watch: WION Climate Tracker: Animals relish Christmas treats at Zoo in London They also have wider skulls with more pronounced brow ridges and smaller ears. They live in family troops, led by a male silverback, known to reach heights of up to 6 ft (182 cm) when standing upright. The exact number of western lowland gorillas is not known as they inhabit some of the most dense and remote rainforests in Africa but the World Wildlife Fund estimates there could be about 100,000.

Another critically endangered gorilla born at London Zoo

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif has nominated his brother, Shehbaz Sharif, for the position of Pakistan Prime Minister. He has nominated Maryam Nawaz for the post of Punjab Chief Minister.

Pakistan Elections 2024: PPP agrees to form government with PML-N's Shehbaz Sharif as PM

As the world gears up for Valentine's Day it's not just lovers and friends preparing for the day the demand for heart-shaped cakes and chocolates that's surged leading to Pâtisserie in Paris working around the clock. Watch to know more!

Celebrating Valentines Day | Chocolates hearts & lovers' delight

French President&nbsp;Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;has intervened in a row over the removal of booksellers from the banks of the river Seine for the Paris Olympics, ruling that they should stay at their historic locations, his office said on Tuesday.

Hundreds of booksellers, who operate from little dark green boxes by the river, were set to be temporarily removed ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony on the Seine on July 26.

The head of the Cultural Association of Booksellers of Paris had likened their relocation to a "tooth extraction" and the organisation announced last month that it would launch legal efforts to stop the process.

Macron&nbsp;"has asked the interior minister and the Paris prefect's office that all of the booksellers are preserved and that none of them are forced to move," a statement from the president's office said.

The decision came after "no consensual and reassuring solution" could be found with the traders, who have been a feature of Parisian life for some 150 years.

Already struggling to bounce back from shutdowns during the Covid pandemic and a longer-run loss of interest from locals, the booksellers are desperate to profit from the arrival of an estimated 16 million tourists during the Games.

The sporting extravaganza is set to begin with national teams sailing down a 6.0-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of the Seine on more than 100 boats -- the first time the traditional opening ceremony has been held outside of the main stadium.

The city's police, overseen by the government-appointed prefect, had ordered the removal of around 600 of the 900 book kiosks over security concerns amid fears that they could be used to conceal explosive devices.

The format of the open-air ceremony is a huge challenge for security forces who will need to protect competitors, VIPs and spectators in a vast area of the capital at a time of heightened concern about terror attacks.&nbsp;

Moving the booksellers was also seen as a way of increasing the space for spectators on the banks of the river where around 300,000 ticketed fans are set to watch the show.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-explained-how-patrick-mahomes-is-becoming-one-of-the-greatest-quarterbacks-in-nfl-690016">Explained: How Patrick Mahomes is becoming one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL</a>

<h2>Don't leave!</h2>

The intervention from&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;reflects concern about the impact on public opinion of removing a fixture of Parisian life, as well as growing criticism of the disruption to everyday life caused by the Games.

Advance warnings about security and transport restrictions have led many locals to plan holidays during the July 26-August 11 Olympics, sometimes in order to rent out their homes for high prices to foreign visitors.

Other complaints centre on the construction work that snares traffic daily around the capital, while resentment lingers over the handling of ticket sales last year that saw many Parisians priced out.

"Don't leave this summer, don't leave! That would be a mistake," mayor Anne Hidalgo urged the city's inhabitants on Sunday as she inaugurated the only new permanent Olympics sports arena to be built in inner Paris.&nbsp;

"It's going to be incredible," she said.

Surveys suggest a large majority of French people back the Olympics, with a poll in November indicating that 65 percent of respondents were in favour.

Most of the sporting and transport infrastructure existed before the Games, part of Paris' pitch for a relatively low-budget event that organisers say will be 50 percent less polluting than previous editions measured by CO2 emissions.

The Olympics will be followed by the Paralympics from August 28-September 8.

French President Emmanuel Macron has intervened in a row over the removal of booksellers from the banks of the river Seine for the Paris Olympics, ruling that they should stay at their historic locations, his office said on Tuesday.

French President Emmanuel Macron has intervened in a row over the removal of booksellers from the banks of the river Seine for the Paris Olympics, ruling that they should stay at their historic locations, his office said on Tuesday. Hundreds of booksellers, who operate from little dark green boxes by the river, were set to be temporarily removed ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony on the Seine on July 26. The head of the Cultural Association of Booksellers of Paris had likened their relocation to a "tooth extraction" and the organisation announced last month that it would launch legal efforts to stop the process. Macron "has asked the interior minister and the Paris prefect's office that all of the booksellers are preserved and that none of them are forced to move," a statement from the president's office said. The decision came after "no consensual and reassuring solution" could be found with the traders, who have been a feature of Parisian life for some 150 years. Already struggling to bounce back from shutdowns during the Covid pandemic and a longer-run loss of interest from locals, the booksellers are desperate to profit from the arrival of an estimated 16 million tourists during the Games. The sporting extravaganza is set to begin with national teams sailing down a 6.0-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of the Seine on more than 100 boats -- the first time the traditional opening ceremony has been held outside of the main stadium. The city's police, overseen by the government-appointed prefect, had ordered the removal of around 600 of the 900 book kiosks over security concerns amid fears that they could be used to conceal explosive devices. The format of the open-air ceremony is a huge challenge for security forces who will need to protect competitors, VIPs and spectators in a vast area of the capital at a time of heightened concern about terror attacks. Moving the booksellers was also seen as a way of increasing the space for spectators on the banks of the river where around 300,000 ticketed fans are set to watch the show. ALSO READ | Explained: How Patrick Mahomes is becoming one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL Don't leave! The intervention from Macron reflects concern about the impact on public opinion of removing a fixture of Parisian life, as well as growing criticism of the disruption to everyday life caused by the Games. Advance warnings about security and transport restrictions have led many locals to plan holidays during the July 26-August 11 Olympics, sometimes in order to rent out their homes for high prices to foreign visitors. Other complaints centre on the construction work that snares traffic daily around the capital, while resentment lingers over the handling of ticket sales last year that saw many Parisians priced out. "Don't leave this summer, don't leave! That would be a mistake," mayor Anne Hidalgo urged the city's inhabitants on Sunday as she inaugurated the only new permanent Olympics sports arena to be built in inner Paris. "It's going to be incredible," she said. Surveys suggest a large majority of French people back the Olympics, with a poll in November indicating that 65 percent of respondents were in favour. Most of the sporting and transport infrastructure existed before the Games, part of Paris' pitch for a relatively low-budget event that organisers say will be 50 percent less polluting than previous editions measured by CO2 emissions. The Olympics will be followed by the Paralympics from August 28-September 8.

Paris Olympics: French President Emmanuel Macron rules booksellers should stay on the banks of river Seine

Israeli strikes deepen panic in Rafah as un aid chief warns a ground offensive could result in ‘slaughter’. Israeli officials have requested un aid agencies to help with efforts to evacuate civilians from Gaza war zones.

‘We lived in terror,’ say Palestinians in Rafah

The Indonesian resort haven of Bali began imposing a 150,000 rupiah ($10) tax on arriving tourists Wednesday (Feb 14) to preserve the culture of the "Island of Gods", officials said.

Tourist-dependent Bali attracts millions of foreign visitors annually and the beach-dotted island is trying to capitalise on its popularity to boost its coffers and protect its tropical allure.

"This levy is aimed at the protection of the culture and the environment in Bali," Bali's acting governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya said at a launch ceremony Monday (Feb 12).

The fee will have to be paid electronically through the "Love Bali" online portal and will apply to foreign tourists entering Bali from abroad or from other parts of Indonesia, according to a press release.

The levy will not apply to domestic Indonesian tourists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-elections-voting-begins-as-over-200-million-head-to-polls-690065">Watch |&nbsp;Indonesia Elections: Voting begins as over 200 million head to polls</a>

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Nearly 4.8 million tourists visited Bali between January and November last year, according to official figures, as the island continued to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic after imposing a zero-tolerance policy on rule-breakers.

The palm-fringed hotspot has vowed a crackdown on misbehaving tourists after a spate of incidents that have included acts of disrespect to the predominantly Hindu island's culture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-proposes-visa-free-arrivals-for-20-countries-including-india-668158">Also read |&nbsp;Indonesia proposes visa-free arrivals for 20 countries, including India</a>

Incidents in recent years have included foreign tourists posing for naked photographs at sacred sites and flashing in the street.

Last year, the local government published an etiquette guide for tourists who wish to visit Bali after being pressed to do so by the island's immigration office.&nbsp;

The Indonesian resort haven of Bali began imposing a 150,000 rupiah ($10) tax on arriving tourists Wednesday (Feb 14) to preserve the culture of the "Island of Gods", officials said.

The Indonesian resort haven of Bali began imposing a 150,000 rupiah ($10) tax on arriving tourists Wednesday (Feb 14) to preserve the culture of the "Island of Gods", officials said. Tourist-dependent Bali attracts millions of foreign visitors annually and the beach-dotted island is trying to capitalise on its popularity to boost its coffers and protect its tropical allure. "This levy is aimed at the protection of the culture and the environment in Bali," Bali's acting governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya said at a launch ceremony Monday (Feb 12). The fee will have to be paid electronically through the "Love Bali" online portal and will apply to foreign tourists entering Bali from abroad or from other parts of Indonesia, according to a press release. The levy will not apply to domestic Indonesian tourists. Watch | Indonesia Elections: Voting begins as over 200 million head to polls × Nearly 4.8 million tourists visited Bali between January and November last year, according to official figures, as the island continued to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic after imposing a zero-tolerance policy on rule-breakers. The palm-fringed hotspot has vowed a crackdown on misbehaving tourists after a spate of incidents that have included acts of disrespect to the predominantly Hindu island's culture. Also read | Indonesia proposes visa-free arrivals for 20 countries, including India Incidents in recent years have included foreign tourists posing for naked photographs at sacred sites and flashing in the street. Last year, the local government published an etiquette guide for tourists who wish to visit Bali after being pressed to do so by the island's immigration office.

Bali's $10 tourism tax kicks into effect. Know who will be affected

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This is the first such Hindu temple in the Gulf country. In other news,&nbsp;Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14).&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baps-abu-dhabi-hindu-temple-inauguration-live-pm-modi-uae-visit-uae-president-latest-news-images-videos-690223">BAPS Abu Dhabi Temple Live: 'Golden chapter' for UAE, says PM Modi 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This is the first such Hindu temple in the Gulf country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-election-defence-minister-prabowo-subianto-claims-victory-in-first-round-690277">Indonesia election: Defence minister Prabowo Subianto claims victory in first round 
 
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Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14) after preliminary results indicated he was leading the polls.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-it-destroyed-russian-warship-in-black-sea-690162">VIDEO: Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea 
 
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Ukraine on Wednesday (Feb 14) claimed it had destroyed another Russian warship in the Black Sea as the war intensified between the two countries, approaching its second anniversary, according to a report by news agency&nbsp;AFP.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unraveling-the-life-of-anand-sujith-henry-techie-found-deceased-in-us-with-wife-kids-690296">Unravelling the life of Anand Sujith Henry: Techie found deceased in US with wife, kids 
 
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Anand Sujith Henry and Alice Priyanka, an Indian couple, along with their twins, Noah and Neithan, four years old, were found dead in a $2.1 million California mansion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-tightens-security-as-farmers-continue-march-towards-national-capital-for-second-day-690082">Farmers' Protest 2.0: Tear gas shells fired, water sprayed as protests resume at Shambu border 
 
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The farmers from Punjab resumed their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day.&nbsp;On Wednesday (Feb 14), tear gas shells were fired and water sprayed from tankers on the protesting farmers who tried to cross the Shambu border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-pipelines-hit-in-act-of-terrorism-and-sabotage-gas-supply-disrupted-690236">Iranian pipelines hit in act of ‘terrorism and sabotage’, gas supply disrupted 
 
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Iranian state media reported that two explosions struck gas pipelines early Wednesday (Feb 14), claiming it to be an act of "terrorism and sabotage".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-says-18-countries-are-expected-to-hit-their-defence-spending-target-after-trumps-remarks-690265">NATO chief says 18 countries are expected to hit their defence spending target after Trump’s remarks 
 
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NATO chief, on Wednesday (Feb 14) said Europe had increased its spending on defence with 18 out of the alliance’s 31 countries expected to hit their target this year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-begins-series-of-strikes-in-lebanon-amid-concerns-over-cross-border-escalation-690319">Israel 'begins series of strikes' in Lebanon amid concerns over cross-border escalation 
 
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The Israeli military said on Wednesday (Feb 14) that its fighter jets "began a series of strikes in Lebanon". Meanwhile, a Lebanese security source said that Israeli strikes in south Lebanon killed four civilians, including two children, and wounded several others.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-slams-record-spending-on-arms-over-climate-report-suggests-world-faces-a-dangerous-decade-690309">UN chief slams record spending on arms over climate; report suggests world faces a ‘dangerous decade’ 
 
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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres blasted countries and accused them of buying weapons at the cost of policies to tackle global warming and hunger. Meanwhile, global defence spending increased by nine per cent last year, hitting a record high of $2.2 trillion.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/this-guys-a-joke-englands-ollie-robinson-on-jasprit-bumrahs-nine-wicket-haul-in-second-test-690287">This guy's a joke: England's Ollie Robinson on Jasprit Bumrah's nine-wicket haul in second Test 
 
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England bowler Ollie Robinson has termed India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah as 'crazy good' for his exploits in the second Test in Vizag during the ongoing five-Test series. Bumrah was named player of the match in the Vizag Test, the second of the series, which India won by 106 runs.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This is the first such Hindu temple in the Gulf country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This is the first such Hindu temple in the Gulf country. In other news, Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14). Click on the headlines to read more: BAPS Abu Dhabi Temple Live: 'Golden chapter' for UAE, says PM Modi Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This is the first such Hindu temple in the Gulf country. Indonesia election: Defence minister Prabowo Subianto claims victory in first round Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14) after preliminary results indicated he was leading the polls. VIDEO: Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea Ukraine on Wednesday (Feb 14) claimed it had destroyed another Russian warship in the Black Sea as the war intensified between the two countries, approaching its second anniversary, according to a report by news agency AFP. Unravelling the life of Anand Sujith Henry: Techie found deceased in US with wife, kids Anand Sujith Henry and Alice Priyanka, an Indian couple, along with their twins, Noah and Neithan, four years old, were found dead in a $2.1 million California mansion. Farmers' Protest 2.0: Tear gas shells fired, water sprayed as protests resume at Shambu border The farmers from Punjab resumed their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day. On Wednesday (Feb 14), tear gas shells were fired and water sprayed from tankers on the protesting farmers who tried to cross the Shambu border. Iranian pipelines hit in act of ‘terrorism and sabotage’, gas supply disrupted Iranian state media reported that two explosions struck gas pipelines early Wednesday (Feb 14), claiming it to be an act of "terrorism and sabotage". NATO chief says 18 countries are expected to hit their defence spending target after Trump’s remarks NATO chief, on Wednesday (Feb 14) said Europe had increased its spending on defence with 18 out of the alliance’s 31 countries expected to hit their target this year. Israel 'begins series of strikes' in Lebanon amid concerns over cross-border escalation The Israeli military said on Wednesday (Feb 14) that its fighter jets "began a series of strikes in Lebanon". Meanwhile, a Lebanese security source said that Israeli strikes in south Lebanon killed four civilians, including two children, and wounded several others. UN chief slams record spending on arms over climate; report suggests world faces a ‘dangerous decade’ United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres blasted countries and accused them of buying weapons at the cost of policies to tackle global warming and hunger. Meanwhile, global defence spending increased by nine per cent last year, hitting a record high of $2.2 trillion. This guy's a joke: England's Ollie Robinson on Jasprit Bumrah's nine-wicket haul in second Test England bowler Ollie Robinson has termed India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah as 'crazy good' for his exploits in the second Test in Vizag during the ongoing five-Test series. Bumrah was named player of the match in the Vizag Test, the second of the series, which India won by 106 runs.

Top 10 world news: PM Modi inaugurates Hindu temple in UAE; Prabowo 'wins' Indonesia presidential race & more

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United States President Joe Biden launched a scathing attack on former president Donald Trump for his criticism of NATO, calling it "dumb", "shameful" and "un-American".

The Democrat assailed his likely 2024 challenger for stating that he will “encourage” Russia to launch an attack on a NATO member nation that fails to meet its defence spending quota.&nbsp;

Biden said that Trump’s remarks emphasised the need for passing a $95bn foreign aid package for US allies.

The bill had just passed the Senate, however, it still has been facing political headwinds in the House.&nbsp;

At the White House on Tuesday (Feb 13), Biden said that a failure to clear the package, which includes $60bn for Ukraine, will be "playing into Putin's hands".

He added that the stakes have increased because of Trump’s “dangerous” remarks which he made over the weekend.&nbsp;

"No other president in history has ever bowed down to a Russian dictator," Biden said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-did-trump-allege-about-nato-spending-and-how-the-international-organisation-is-funded-689908">Explained | What did Trump allege about NATO spending and how the international organisation is funded?</a>

"Let me say this as clearly as I can. I never will. For God's sake. It's dumb. It's shameful. It's dangerous. It's un-American,” he added.&nbsp;

Biden claimed that his predecessor has been treating the military alliance like a protection racket.

"As long as I'm president, if Putin attacks a Nato ally, the United States will defend every inch of Nato territory,” he said.&nbsp;

Biden said that the only time when Nato invoked Article 5, which is part of the organisation’s charter which states that an attack on any member state will be considered an attack on the entire group, was after the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;

In a message, which was aimed at House Republicans, President Biden said: "Are you going to stand with Ukraine or are you going to stand with Putin? Will you stand with America or Trump?"

<h2>What accusations did Trump level against NATO?&nbsp;</h2>

Donald Trump, who served as the US president from 2017-21, often lambasted NATO and its members like Germany, while accusing them of failing to pay enough for their own defence and depending on the US for their protection.&nbsp;

He has also questioned the collective defence principle openly. Meanwhile, the Europeans have also been accused by other US administrators of failing to spend enough on defence.

Watch:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden joins TikTok ahead of 2024 election

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Taking his criticism to the next level during a campaign rally on Saturday (Feb 11) in Conway, South Carolina, Trump recounted what he said regarding a conversation with the "president of a big country".

"Well sir, if we don't pay, and we're attacked by Russia - will you protect us?" Trump quoted the unnamed leader as speaking.

"I said: 'You didn't pay? You're delinquent?' He said: 'Yes, let's say that happened.' No, I would not protect you. I would encourage them (Russia) to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden launched a scathing attack on former president Donald Trump for his criticism of NATO, calling it "dumb", "shameful" and "un-American".

United States President Joe Biden launched a scathing attack on former president Donald Trump for his criticism of NATO, calling it "dumb", "shameful" and "un-American". The Democrat assailed his likely 2024 challenger for stating that he will “encourage” Russia to launch an attack on a NATO member nation that fails to meet its defence spending quota. Biden said that Trump’s remarks emphasised the need for passing a $95bn foreign aid package for US allies. The bill had just passed the Senate, however, it still has been facing political headwinds in the House. At the White House on Tuesday (Feb 13), Biden said that a failure to clear the package, which includes $60bn for Ukraine, will be "playing into Putin's hands". He added that the stakes have increased because of Trump’s “dangerous” remarks which he made over the weekend. "No other president in history has ever bowed down to a Russian dictator," Biden said. Also Read: Explained | What did Trump allege about NATO spending and how the international organisation is funded? "Let me say this as clearly as I can. I never will. For God's sake. It's dumb. It's shameful. It's dangerous. It's un-American,” he added. Biden claimed that his predecessor has been treating the military alliance like a protection racket. "As long as I'm president, if Putin attacks a Nato ally, the United States will defend every inch of Nato territory,” he said. Biden said that the only time when Nato invoked Article 5, which is part of the organisation’s charter which states that an attack on any member state will be considered an attack on the entire group, was after the 9/11 attacks. In a message, which was aimed at House Republicans, President Biden said: "Are you going to stand with Ukraine or are you going to stand with Putin? Will you stand with America or Trump?" What accusations did Trump level against NATO? Donald Trump, who served as the US president from 2017-21, often lambasted NATO and its members like Germany, while accusing them of failing to pay enough for their own defence and depending on the US for their protection. He has also questioned the collective defence principle openly. Meanwhile, the Europeans have also been accused by other US administrators of failing to spend enough on defence. Watch: US President Joe Biden joins TikTok ahead of 2024 election Taking his criticism to the next level during a campaign rally on Saturday (Feb 11) in Conway, South Carolina, Trump recounted what he said regarding a conversation with the "president of a big country". "Well sir, if we don't pay, and we're attacked by Russia - will you protect us?" Trump quoted the unnamed leader as speaking. "I said: 'You didn't pay? You're delinquent?' He said: 'Yes, let's say that happened.' No, I would not protect you. I would encourage them (Russia) to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden calls Trump’s criticism of NATO ‘dumb’, ‘shameful’

Armed men killed four people, including two policemen, and kidnapped at least 40 others in an attack on Kaura Namoda, in Nigeria’s northwest Zamfara state. Watch in for more details!

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The Republican-majority US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) impeached Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas. The&nbsp;GOP-majority House&nbsp;voted 214 to 213 for the measure&nbsp;after an earlier attempt failed last week.

The Republican lawmakers passed two articles, accusing Mayorkas of&nbsp;"willful and systemic refusal" to enforce immigration law and "breach of public trust" -&nbsp;making him the first cabinet member to be impeached in nearly 150 years.

US President Joe Biden's immigration chief had been facing the music for a long time after Republicans blamed him for the surge in migrants illegally crossing the southern border.&nbsp;

Immediately after Mayorkas' impeachment, Biden released a statement stating the move by the House was a "blatant" example of partisan politics that violated the Constitution.&nbsp;

"History will not look kindly on House Republicans for their blatant act of unconstitutional partisanship that has targeted an honourable public servant in order to play petty political games," said Biden.&nbsp;

Prior to Mayorkas, the only cabinet official to have been impeached was Secretary of War William Belknap, who resigned in 1876 from President Ulysses S. Grant’s administration hours before the House formally charged him with corruption.

Akin to&nbsp;Belknap, who was acquitted by the Senate, Mayorkas is also expected to face a similar outcome as the Democrats control the other chamber.&nbsp;

<h2>Mayorkas' previous narrow escape</h2>

Last week, Mayorkas managed to narrowly avoid an exit following a&nbsp;214-216 vote which marked a blow for Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP lawmakers.&nbsp;The dramatic vote finished with a 215-215 tie after a Republican member changed his vote so that the House could bring up the impeachment issue once again.&nbsp;

Notably, Colorado Rep. Ken Buck, Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher and California Rep. Tom McClintock were the three Republicans who halted Mayorkas' exit after Mark Green, who presides over the Homeland Security Committee, sent the impeachment articles.&nbsp;

However, during Tuesday's proceedings, the return of Republican House Majority Leader Steve Scalise tipped the scales in favour of the GOP.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433">Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill</a>

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<h2>Border crisis</h2>

The Republicans have repeatedly attacked the Democrats by pointing to the statistics which show that migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December alone at the southern border. Mayorkas has been held responsible for the alarming situation as more and more undocumented immigrants enter American cities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorities-start-closing-bridges-with-mexico-to-contain-surge-in-immigration-671644">Also read |&nbsp;US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration</a>

A Harvard-Harris survey conducted earlier this month showed that immigration was now an important concern for voters, with 35 per cent of respondents citing the issue as their top priority.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Republican-majority US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) impeached Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas. The GOP-majority House voted 214 to 213 for the measure after an earlier attempt failed last week.

The Republican-majority US House of Representatives on Tuesday (Feb 13) impeached Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas. The GOP-majority House voted 214 to 213 for the measure after an earlier attempt failed last week. The Republican lawmakers passed two articles, accusing Mayorkas of "willful and systemic refusal" to enforce immigration law and "breach of public trust" - making him the first cabinet member to be impeached in nearly 150 years. US President Joe Biden's immigration chief had been facing the music for a long time after Republicans blamed him for the surge in migrants illegally crossing the southern border. Immediately after Mayorkas' impeachment, Biden released a statement stating the move by the House was a "blatant" example of partisan politics that violated the Constitution. "History will not look kindly on House Republicans for their blatant act of unconstitutional partisanship that has targeted an honourable public servant in order to play petty political games," said Biden. Prior to Mayorkas, the only cabinet official to have been impeached was Secretary of War William Belknap, who resigned in 1876 from President Ulysses S. Grant’s administration hours before the House formally charged him with corruption. Akin to Belknap, who was acquitted by the Senate, Mayorkas is also expected to face a similar outcome as the Democrats control the other chamber. Mayorkas' previous narrow escape Last week, Mayorkas managed to narrowly avoid an exit following a 214-216 vote which marked a blow for Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP lawmakers. The dramatic vote finished with a 215-215 tie after a Republican member changed his vote so that the House could bring up the impeachment issue once again. Notably, Colorado Rep. Ken Buck, Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher and California Rep. Tom McClintock were the three Republicans who halted Mayorkas' exit after Mark Green, who presides over the Homeland Security Committee, sent the impeachment articles. However, during Tuesday's proceedings, the return of Republican House Majority Leader Steve Scalise tipped the scales in favour of the GOP. Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill × Border crisis The Republicans have repeatedly attacked the Democrats by pointing to the statistics which show that migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December alone at the southern border. Mayorkas has been held responsible for the alarming situation as more and more undocumented immigrants enter American cities. Also read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration A Harvard-Harris survey conducted earlier this month showed that immigration was now an important concern for voters, with 35 per cent of respondents citing the issue as their top priority. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden's Homeland security chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached in Republican-majority House

A court in the United Kingdom, on Tuesday (Feb 13) found three people guilty of a terror offence after they displayed images of paragliders at a pro-Palestine march in London a week after Hamas’ deadly October 7 attack on Israel.&nbsp;

<h2>‘You crossed the line’</h2>

The trio, identified as Heba Alhayek, 29, Pauline Ankunda, 26, and Noimutu Olayinka Taiwo, 27, were each handed a 12-month conditional discharge by the Westminster Magistrates’ Court.&nbsp;

“You crossed the line, but it would have been fair to say that emotions ran very high on this issue,” said Deputy Senior District Judge Tan Ikram giving his verdict. He added, “Your lesson has been well learned.”

Alhayek and Ankunda had reportedly taped images of paragliders to their backs while Taiwo stuck one to the handle of a placard during a pro-Palestinian protest in London on October 14, 2023.

Also&nbsp;Read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-diplomat-slammed-for-inspiring-hamas-to-launch-paragliding-style-attack-against-israel-650455">German diplomat slammed for ‘inspiring’ Hamas to launch paragliding-style attack against Israel</a>

The protest took place a week after Hamas militants attacked Israel and killed nearly 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials, and took&nbsp;more than 240 others as hostages back to Gaza.&nbsp;

The three protesters were later charged under the UK’s Terrorism Act for carrying or displaying an article to cause&nbsp;reasonable suspicion that they were supporters of a banned organisation, in this case, Hamas. The trio had denied the charges against them.&nbsp;

The verdict followed a two-day trial where prosecutors argued it was “no coincidence” the defendants were displaying the images merely days after the attack.&nbsp;

However, lawyer Mark Summers KC for Alhayek and Ankunda, argued that the police were “mistaken” about what they saw that day and termed them images of cartoon parachutes which are a “well-known nationalist symbol of peace”.

The idea that the image was of a paraglider started with “an internet group with an agenda,” said KC.&nbsp;

“Seven days earlier, Hamas went into Israel with what was described by the media as paragliders. A reasonable person would have seen and read that,” said the district court judge.&nbsp;

He added, “I want to be clear, there’s no evidence that any of these defendants are supporters of Hamas, or were seeking to show support for them.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-militants-paraglide-into-israeli-rave-party-partygoers-keep-dancing-unaware-watch-644397">Hamas militants paraglide into Israeli 'rave party,' partygoers keep dancing unaware</a>

The judge said he had “decided not to punish” the defendants while handing them the 12-month conditional discharge.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Glorification of the actions’ of Hamas</h2>

In response to the verdict, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said that displaying the images amounted to the “glorification of the actions” of the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;

“All three women knowingly displayed the images of paragliders in central London and therefore showed their support for Hamas – a proscribed terrorist organisation,” said Nick Price of CPS&nbsp;in a statement.

He added, “The fact that these images were being displayed in the context of a protest opposing the Israeli response to the Hamas attacks demonstrates a glorification of the actions taken by the group.” 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A court in the United Kingdom, on Tuesday (Feb 13) found three people guilty of a terror offence after they displayed images of paragliders at a pro-Palestine march in London a week after Hamas’ deadly October 7 attack on Israel.

A court in the United Kingdom, on Tuesday (Feb 13) found three people guilty of a terror offence after they displayed images of paragliders at a pro-Palestine march in London a week after Hamas’ deadly October 7 attack on Israel. ‘You crossed the line’ The trio, identified as Heba Alhayek, 29, Pauline Ankunda, 26, and Noimutu Olayinka Taiwo, 27, were each handed a 12-month conditional discharge by the Westminster Magistrates’ Court. “You crossed the line, but it would have been fair to say that emotions ran very high on this issue,” said Deputy Senior District Judge Tan Ikram giving his verdict. He added, “Your lesson has been well learned.” Alhayek and Ankunda had reportedly taped images of paragliders to their backs while Taiwo stuck one to the handle of a placard during a pro-Palestinian protest in London on October 14, 2023. Also Read | German diplomat slammed for ‘inspiring’ Hamas to launch paragliding-style attack against Israel The protest took place a week after Hamas militants attacked Israel and killed nearly 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials, and took more than 240 others as hostages back to Gaza. The three protesters were later charged under the UK’s Terrorism Act for carrying or displaying an article to cause reasonable suspicion that they were supporters of a banned organisation, in this case, Hamas. The trio had denied the charges against them. The verdict followed a two-day trial where prosecutors argued it was “no coincidence” the defendants were displaying the images merely days after the attack. However, lawyer Mark Summers KC for Alhayek and Ankunda, argued that the police were “mistaken” about what they saw that day and termed them images of cartoon parachutes which are a “well-known nationalist symbol of peace”. The idea that the image was of a paraglider started with “an internet group with an agenda,” said KC. “Seven days earlier, Hamas went into Israel with what was described by the media as paragliders. A reasonable person would have seen and read that,” said the district court judge. He added, “I want to be clear, there’s no evidence that any of these defendants are supporters of Hamas, or were seeking to show support for them.” Also Read | Hamas militants paraglide into Israeli 'rave party,' partygoers keep dancing unaware The judge said he had “decided not to punish” the defendants while handing them the 12-month conditional discharge. ‘Glorification of the actions’ of Hamas In response to the verdict, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said that displaying the images amounted to the “glorification of the actions” of the Palestinian militant group. “All three women knowingly displayed the images of paragliders in central London and therefore showed their support for Hamas – a proscribed terrorist organisation,” said Nick Price of CPS in a statement. He added, “The fact that these images were being displayed in the context of a protest opposing the Israeli response to the Hamas attacks demonstrates a glorification of the actions taken by the group.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Three pro-Palestinian protesters found guilty of terror offence over paraglider images

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has been released from hospital and resumed his duties, informed the Pentagon on Tuesday (Feb 13). Austin was admitted to the critical care unit at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Sunday (Feb 11) where he underwent treatment for bladder issues connected to his prostate cancer battle.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has been released from hospital and resumed his duties, informed the Pentagon on Tuesday (Feb 13). Austin was admitted to the critical care unit at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Sunday (Feb 11) where he underwent treatment for bladder issues connected to his prostate cancer battle. Pentagon said Austin resumed his full function and duties at around 5 pm (2200 GMT) after transferring some of his powers to his deputy Kathleen Hicks over the weekend. "Secretary Austin will recuperate and perform his duties remotely from home for a period before returning to work at the Pentagon later this week," his office said in a statement. Unlike previous occasions where Austin's hospitalisation and subsequent release were kept secret, both the White House and Congress had been notified of his return to work, the Pentagon confirmed. The doctors overseeing Austin's treatment were also quoted in the Pentagon statement. "His condition indicated a need for close monitoring by the critical care team and supportive care. His diagnostic evaluation identified the cause of his bladder issue and it was corrected with non-surgical procedures on February 12," they said. "He remained in good condition throughout and no longer needed critical care monitoring on (Tuesday morning). He progressed well and was discharged to his home today." Having missed a meeting in Brussels of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group of nations coordinating military assistance, Austin is likely to attend the virtual version of the gathering which would be his first assignment after being back in office. Watch | US defense secretary Lloyd Austin's secret hospitalization: All you need to know Austin's hospitalisation history Notably, Austin had vanished from the public eye in December and early January this year after suffering complications from treatment for prostate cancer. He had undergone minor surgery on December 22 after early detection of prostate cancer in routine screening. After the procedure, Austin recovered without event and returned home the next morning. However, complications soon emerged and evaluation revealed that abdominal fluid collection was impairing the function of his small intestines. The defence secretary was hospitalised on New Year's Day (Jan 1) in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to complications. Also read | US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin apologises for secret hospitalisation: 'I did not handle this right' Surprisingly, the Pentagon did not make any official announcement until four days later while waiting to notify other top government officers about Austin's absence. During the period, Austin was away from the action, and some of his powers were transferred to Deputy Defence Secretary Kathleen Hicks. However, even she was not informed that his boss had been hospitalised until two days later. (With inputs from agencies)

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin released from hospital, resumes work: Pentagon

Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion of a ceasefire in Ukraine to freeze the war was rejected by the United States after contacts between intermediaries, three Russian sources with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion of a ceasefire in Ukraine to freeze the war was rejected by the United States after contacts between intermediaries, three Russian sources with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters. The failure of Putin's approach ushers in a third year of the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War Two and illustrates just how far apart the world's two largest nuclear powers remain. A US source denied there had been any official contact and said Washington would not engage in talks that did not involve Ukraine. Putin sent signals to Washington in 2023 in public and privately through intermediaries, including through Moscow's Arab partners in the Middle East and others, that he was ready to consider a ceasefire in Ukraine, the Russian sources said. Putin was proposing to freeze the conflict at the current lines and was unwilling to cede any of the Ukrainian territory controlled by Russia, but the signal offered what some in the Kremlin saw as the best path towards peace of some kind. "The contacts with the Americans came to nothing," a senior Russian source with knowledge of the discussions in late 2023 and early 2024 told Reuters on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation. A second Russian source with knowledge of the contacts told Reuters that the Americans told Moscow, via the intermediaries, they would not discuss a possible ceasefire without the participation of Ukraine and so the contacts ended in failure. A third source with knowledge of the discussions said: "Everything fell apart with the Americans." The source said that the Americans did not want to pressure Ukraine. The extent of the contacts - and their failure - has not previously been reported. It comes as US President Joe Biden has for months been pushing Congress to approve more aid for Ukraine, but has faced opposition from allies of Republican presidential nomination frontrunner Donald Trump. The Kremlin, the White House, the US State Department and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) all declined to comment. US says 'no back channel' Putin sent thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering a full-scale war after eight years of conflict in eastern Ukraine between Ukrainian forces on the one side and pro-Russian Ukrainians and Russian proxies on the other. Ukraine says it is fighting for its existence and the West casts Putin's invasion as an imperial-style land grab that challenges the post-Cold War international order. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says he will never accept Russia's control over Ukrainian land. He has outlawed any contacts with Russia. A US official, speaking in Washington on condition of anonymity, said that the US has not engaged in any back-channel discussions with Russia and that Washington had been consistent in not going behind the back of Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: What hope for Ukraine if US military aid dries up? × The US official said that there appeared to have been unofficial "Track II" conversations among Russians not in the government but that the United States was not engaged in them. The US official said Putin's proposal, based on what has been publicly reported, was unchanged from past demands that Russia hold on to Ukrainian territory. The official suggested that there appeared to be frustration in Moscow that Washington had repeatedly refused to accept it. Putin told US talk-show host Tucker Carlson last week that Russia was ready for "dialogue". Contacts Intermediaries met in Turkey in late 2023, according to three Russian sources. A fourth diplomatic source said that there had been Russian-US unofficial contacts through intermediaries at Russia's initiative but that they appeared to have come to nothing. The US official said he was unaware of unofficial contact through intermediaries. According to three Russian sources, Putin's signal was relayed to Washington, where top US officials including White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Central Intelligence Agency Director Bill Burns and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met. The idea was that Sullivan would speak to Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, and set out the next steps, one of the Russian sources said. But when the call came in January, Sullivan told Ushakov that Washington was willing to talk about other aspects of the relationship but would not speak about a ceasefire without Ukraine, said one of the Russian sources. The US official refused to be drawn on any details of Sullivan's purported calls, or whether such a conversation with Ushakov took place. Also read | Ukraine needs to come up with new strategies to battle, says new army chief Putin 'ready to fight on' One of the Russian sources expressed frustration with the United States over Washington's insistence that it would not nudge Ukraine towards talks given that the United States was helping to fund the war. "Putin said: 'I knew they wouldn't do anything'," another of the Russian sources said. "They cut off the root of the contacts which had taken two months to create." Another Russian source said that the United States did not appear to believe Putin was sincere. "The Americans didn't believe Putin was genuine about a ceasefire - but he was and is - he is ready to discuss a ceasefire. But equally Putin is also ready to fight on for as long as it takes - and Russia can fight for as long as it takes," the Russian source said. The Kremlin sees little point in further contacts with the United States on the issue, the Russian sources said, so the war would continue.

Putin's suggestion of ceasefire in Ukraine rejected by US: Report

A fast-moving winter storm blanketed the U.S. Northeast on Tuesday. At least one person has died. Officials urge residents to take precautions asking them to stay off the roads. Accidents were reported in New York to New Jersey and even Pennsylvania due to hazardous driving conditions. Watch to know more!

US: Boston Mayor declares state of emergency as snowstorm hits northeast US

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated UAE's historic BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Abu Dhabi. This marks a significant moment for Indians.

UAE BAPS temple: PM Modi inaugurates UAE's first Hindu temple

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Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14) after preliminary results indicated he was leading the polls.&nbsp;

<h2>Prabowo calls for calm</h2>

Prabowo claimed victory during a speech at Istora Senayan sporting arena in the capital Jakarta, based on the unofficial tallies while also asking people to stay calm and wait for the official results from the election commission.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Indonesia Elections 2024: Indonesians cast ballots in the world's biggest single-day polls

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-elections-2024-indonesians-cast-ballots-in-the-worlds-biggest-single-day-polls-690266/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The incumbent defence minister during his speech also said that he is “grateful” that the election was done peacefully and for the quick count results. Prabowo promised to create a government consisting of “the best Indonesians” and said it was a victory for all of the people.

“All counts, all pollsters...showed figures that Prabowo-Gibran won in one round. This victory should be a victory for all Indonesians,” said the incumbent defence minister during his speech referring to his running mate.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Quick counts’</h2>

The official results will not be announced until next month, but government-approved pollsters who collected a sample of votes at polling stations to conduct “quick counts” show that with most votes counted Prabowo is in the lead.&nbsp;

As of 1233 GMT, with 78 per cent to 93 per cent of ballots tallied, Prabowo had around 58 per cent of the votes, reported Reuters citing four pollsters – Indikator Politik, Kompas, CSIS and LSI.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-election-2024-heres-all-you-need-to-know-689934">Indonesia election 2024: Here's all you need to know as 204 million prepare to cast votes</a>

The unofficial tallies also indicate that Prabowo is on track to win the presidency in one round. The incumbent defence minister needs to secure more than 50 per cent of the overall vote and at least a 5th of ballots cast in more than half of the country’s 38 provinces to secure the presidency.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, his rivals, Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo trailed with about 25 per cent and 17 per cent respectively, according to independent pollsters, who in previous elections have proven to be accurate.&nbsp;

<h2>About the elections&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</h2>

Nearly 205 million eligible voters in the world’s third-largest democracy, on Wednesday, headed to polls to choose their new president and candidates for some 20,000 national, provincial and district parliamentary posts.&nbsp;

The polls for Indonesia’s 5th presidential and legislative elections since the end of its dictatorship in 1998, closed earlier today, after marking the world’s biggest one-day election.&nbsp;

In addition to the presidency, there were also some 10,000 aspirants from 18 political parties in Indonesia who contested 580 national parliament seats, on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Prabowo, 72, may take over – if the unofficial tallies are anything to go by – after incumbent President Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, who is serving his second and final term.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indonesian-presidential-elections-contenders-and-issues-651168">&nbsp;Explained | Indonesian presidential elections, contenders and issues</a>

Prabowo the once-feared top lieutenant of Indonesia’s late strongman ruler Suharto, is backed by his once rival and wildly popular incumbent who plans to continue his legacy, with his eldest son Gibran as the defence minister’s running mate.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Massive fraud’</h2>

The campaign teams of Ganjar and Anies, as per Reuters, said they were investigating reports of electoral violations and called it “structural, systematic and massive fraud”. However, they have yet to provide evidence for this claim.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14) after preliminary results indicated he was leading the polls.

Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto claimed victory in the first round of Indonesia’s presidential election on Wednesday (Feb 14) after preliminary results indicated he was leading the polls. Prabowo calls for calm Prabowo claimed victory during a speech at Istora Senayan sporting arena in the capital Jakarta, based on the unofficial tallies while also asking people to stay calm and wait for the official results from the election commission. WATCH | Indonesia Elections 2024: Indonesians cast ballots in the world's biggest single-day polls The incumbent defence minister during his speech also said that he is “grateful” that the election was done peacefully and for the quick count results. Prabowo promised to create a government consisting of “the best Indonesians” and said it was a victory for all of the people. “All counts, all pollsters...showed figures that Prabowo-Gibran won in one round. This victory should be a victory for all Indonesians,” said the incumbent defence minister during his speech referring to his running mate. ‘Quick counts’ The official results will not be announced until next month, but government-approved pollsters who collected a sample of votes at polling stations to conduct “quick counts” show that with most votes counted Prabowo is in the lead. As of 1233 GMT, with 78 per cent to 93 per cent of ballots tallied, Prabowo had around 58 per cent of the votes, reported Reuters citing four pollsters – Indikator Politik, Kompas, CSIS and LSI. Also Read | Indonesia election 2024: Here's all you need to know as 204 million prepare to cast votes The unofficial tallies also indicate that Prabowo is on track to win the presidency in one round. The incumbent defence minister needs to secure more than 50 per cent of the overall vote and at least a 5th of ballots cast in more than half of the country’s 38 provinces to secure the presidency. Meanwhile, his rivals, Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo trailed with about 25 per cent and 17 per cent respectively, according to independent pollsters, who in previous elections have proven to be accurate. About the elections Nearly 205 million eligible voters in the world’s third-largest democracy, on Wednesday, headed to polls to choose their new president and candidates for some 20,000 national, provincial and district parliamentary posts. The polls for Indonesia’s 5th presidential and legislative elections since the end of its dictatorship in 1998, closed earlier today, after marking the world’s biggest one-day election. In addition to the presidency, there were also some 10,000 aspirants from 18 political parties in Indonesia who contested 580 national parliament seats, on Wednesday. Prabowo, 72, may take over – if the unofficial tallies are anything to go by – after incumbent President Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, who is serving his second and final term. Also Read | Explained | Indonesian presidential elections, contenders and issues Prabowo the once-feared top lieutenant of Indonesia’s late strongman ruler Suharto, is backed by his once rival and wildly popular incumbent who plans to continue his legacy, with his eldest son Gibran as the defence minister’s running mate. ‘Massive fraud’ The campaign teams of Ganjar and Anies, as per Reuters, said they were investigating reports of electoral violations and called it “structural, systematic and massive fraud”. However, they have yet to provide evidence for this claim. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia election: Defence minister Prabowo Subianto claims victory in first round

UAE's first Hindu temple: Indian PM performs rituals at BAPS Temple

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