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<p>The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks.</p>

<p>HMS Queen Elizabeth will now be replaced by HMS Prince of Wales in the NATO exercises involving over 40 vessels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A routine problem?</strong></h2>

<p>This setback follows a similar incident 18 months ago when the sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, experienced a breakdown off the Isle of Wight due to a malfunction with a coupling on its starboard propeller.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scotland-set-to-increase-minimum-alcohol-price-by-30-to-curb-health-crisis-687169">Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>On X, formerly Twitter, the Royal Navy posted: "Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday."</p>

<p>"HMS Prince of Wales will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on <a href="https://twitter.com/HMSQNLZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSQNLZ</a> starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday.<a href="https://twitter.com/HMSPWLS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSPWLS</a> will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible. <a href="https://t.co/ImAeTU80vi">pic.twitter.com/ImAeTU80vi</a></p>
— Royal Navy (@RoyalNavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalNavy/status/1753889301157282215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per the Independent, it is primed to lead a carrier strike involving eight ships, with four British vessels, including the frigate HMS Somerset and two Tide-class tankers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It would be supported by vessels from the US, Spain, and Denmark.</p>

<p>Also joining the strike are F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from the 617 "Dambusters" Squadron at RAF Marham, along with submarine hunting and airborne early warning Merlin Mk2 helicopters from RNAS Culdrose. Battlefield Wildcat helicopters of 847 Naval Air Squadron from RNAS Yeovilton are also part of the line-up.</p>

<p>The cancellation comes amid warnings that Britain is ill-prepared for an all-out war due to stockpile shortages and an armed forces recruitment crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-faces-turbulence-airlines-groundstaff-to-stage-one-day-strike-over-pay-dispute-687189">Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines groundstaff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the House of Commons defense committee, the military is "consistently overstretched", exacerbated by recruitment and retention challenges that have seen more people leaving than joining the armed forces, reports the Independent.</p>

<p>The cross-party group of MPs also said that the nation's military has been "hollowed out", leaving the UK unprepared for war amid increasing global instability.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks.

The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks. HMS Queen Elizabeth will now be replaced by HMS Prince of Wales in the NATO exercises involving over 40 vessels. A routine problem? This setback follows a similar incident 18 months ago when the sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, experienced a breakdown off the Isle of Wight due to a malfunction with a coupling on its starboard propeller. Also read | Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis On X, formerly Twitter, the Royal Navy posted: "Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday." "HMS Prince of Wales will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible." Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on @HMSQNLZ starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday.@HMSPWLS will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible. pic.twitter.com/ImAeTU80vi — Royal Navy (@RoyalNavy) February 3, 2024 × As per the Independent, it is primed to lead a carrier strike involving eight ships, with four British vessels, including the frigate HMS Somerset and two Tide-class tankers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It would be supported by vessels from the US, Spain, and Denmark. Also joining the strike are F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from the 617 "Dambusters" Squadron at RAF Marham, along with submarine hunting and airborne early warning Merlin Mk2 helicopters from RNAS Culdrose. Battlefield Wildcat helicopters of 847 Naval Air Squadron from RNAS Yeovilton are also part of the line-up. The cancellation comes amid warnings that Britain is ill-prepared for an all-out war due to stockpile shortages and an armed forces recruitment crisis. Also read | Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines groundstaff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute As per the House of Commons defense committee, the military is "consistently overstretched", exacerbated by recruitment and retention challenges that have seen more people leaving than joining the armed forces, reports the Independent. The cross-party group of MPs also said that the nation's military has been "hollowed out", leaving the UK unprepared for war amid increasing global instability. (With inputs from agencies)

Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth pulls out of NATO exercise after propeller shaft snag

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The US is actively pursuing a second hostage deal as well as humanitarian assistance to Gaza. In the latest US Secy State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with the Saudi counterpart about the Israel-Hamas war. Watch to know more!

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<p>Lufthansa's ground staff in Germany is gearing up for a strike this Wednesday (Feb 7th), as workers call for better pay. The Verdi union, representing the staff, has called for a one-day strike by Lufthansa's ground staff as part of a pay dispute, adding to the series of transport strikes in Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strike, as per news agency AP, will affect Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, and Düsseldorf airports, starting from 4 am (0200GMT) on Wednesday. Reuters reports that the strike will last until 7:10 am on Thursday (Feb 8th).</p>

<h2><strong>The demands</strong></h2>

<p>The union, as per reports, is advocating for a 12.5 per cent pay increase or a minimum additional monthly amount of 500 euros ($539) for nearly 25,000 employees over a 12-month period. This will cover roles such as check-in, aircraft handling, maintenance, and freight staff.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scotland-set-to-increase-minimum-alcohol-price-by-30-to-curb-health-crisis-687169">Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, they want a one-time payment of 3,000 euros to offset inflation.</p>

<p>The union argues that higher cost of living and heavy workload due to staff shortages warrant a pay rise.</p>

<h2><strong>Lufthansa reacts</strong></h2>

<p>Lufthansa&nbsp;criticised the scale of the strike and said that&nbsp;said it was working on a special timetable.&nbsp;A spokesperson for the airline said it's too early to give an exact number but admitted it will likely be a significant disruption, considering their daily schedule of 3,000 flights.</p>

<p>"It will naturally be a lot," said the spokesperson.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-professor-fired-over-anti-israel-rant-she-once-held-machete-to-reporters-neck-687166">US professor fired over 'anti-Israel rant'. She once held machete to reporter's neck</a></strong></p>

<p>The strike coincides with ongoing contract negotiations in the rail, air, and local transport sector, which has created a challenging period for travellers and commuters in Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, on last Thursday (Feb 1) Verdi staged a walkout involving security workers at major airports. This led to widespread flight cancellations, while a subsequent walkout on Friday (Feb 2) affected local buses, trams, and subway trains across the country. These brief one day or several hours "warning strikes" are a common tactic in German contract negotiations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lufthansa's ground staff in Germany is gearing up for a strike this Wednesday (Feb 7th), as workers call for better pay. The Verdi union, representing the staff, has called for a one-day strike by Lufthansa's ground staff as part of a pay dispute, adding to the series of transport strikes in Germany.

Lufthansa's ground staff in Germany is gearing up for a strike this Wednesday (Feb 7th), as workers call for better pay. The Verdi union, representing the staff, has called for a one-day strike by Lufthansa's ground staff as part of a pay dispute, adding to the series of transport strikes in Germany. The strike, as per news agency AP, will affect Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, and Düsseldorf airports, starting from 4 am (0200GMT) on Wednesday. Reuters reports that the strike will last until 7:10 am on Thursday (Feb 8th). The demands The union, as per reports, is advocating for a 12.5 per cent pay increase or a minimum additional monthly amount of 500 euros ($539) for nearly 25,000 employees over a 12-month period. This will cover roles such as check-in, aircraft handling, maintenance, and freight staff. Also read | Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis In addition, they want a one-time payment of 3,000 euros to offset inflation. The union argues that higher cost of living and heavy workload due to staff shortages warrant a pay rise. Lufthansa reacts Lufthansa criticised the scale of the strike and said that said it was working on a special timetable. A spokesperson for the airline said it's too early to give an exact number but admitted it will likely be a significant disruption, considering their daily schedule of 3,000 flights. "It will naturally be a lot," said the spokesperson. Also read | US professor fired over 'anti-Israel rant'. She once held machete to reporter's neck The strike coincides with ongoing contract negotiations in the rail, air, and local transport sector, which has created a challenging period for travellers and commuters in Germany. Previously, on last Thursday (Feb 1) Verdi staged a walkout involving security workers at major airports. This led to widespread flight cancellations, while a subsequent walkout on Friday (Feb 2) affected local buses, trams, and subway trains across the country. These brief one day or several hours "warning strikes" are a common tactic in German contract negotiations. (With inputs from agencies)

Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines ground staff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute

Australian writer Yang Jun has been given a suspended death sentence for espionage in China, according to the Australian government. It is one of the harshest sentences Beijing is known to have handed down for spying charges in recent years and casts a new shadow over relations between China and Australia.

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As per Japanese media reports the United States and Japan have named China as a hypothetical enemy for the first time during their joint command and control simulation exercises that began on the 1st of February. The exercise envisions an emergency in Taiwan which China claims to be a part of its territory. Watch to know more!

China named hypothetical enemy in US-Japan military exercise

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<p>China has been named a hypothetical enemy for the first time in a joint command post exercise by the Japanese and US forces. The Japanese Self-Defense Foces and the US military engaged in simulated joint exercise last week amid rising concerns over China's potential invasion of self-ruled island of Taiwan which Beijing claims as its own.</p>

<p>The computer simulation exercise, which began on Feb 1 and is scheduled to go on till Feb 8 envisioned an emergency in Taiwan. A provisional name was previously used when referring to an enemy, Japan Times reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US, Japan game out military clash with China</strong></p>

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<p>The report added that Japan's defence ministry is believed to have classified the scenario as a specially designated secret under the country's secrecy law.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Tokyo-Washington's simulated move reflects a heightened sense of urgency as Taiwan continues to be at the centre of a geopolitical and geoeconomic spotlight amid Beijing's avowal for the formation of a 'unified China'.</p>

<p>The US Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns said in February last year that Chinese President Xi Jinping had instructed his country's military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-to-agree-to-develop-hypersonic-missile-interceptor-report-624969">US, Japan all set to develop hypersonic missile interceptor: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The United States and Japan have had a number of joint operation plans in which they envision emergencies. A draft as such about Taiwan completed just at the end of 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The simulation exercise will have its results reflected in the final plans for a Taiwan scenario scheduled to be compiled by the end of this year. Actual troops are also expected to perform a live-action demonstration of the "Keen Sword" drill around 2025 to verify its efficacy, Japan Times reported.</p>

<p>Japan and the United States began conducting joint drills in 1986, with the two countries holding "Keen Edge" and "Keen Sword" exercises roughly every other year.</p>

<p>Gen Yoshihide Yoshida, chief of the Japanese Defense Ministry's Joint Staff, however had said at a news conference on Jan. 25 that the exercise "did not envision a particular country or region."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China has been named a hypothetical enemy for the first time in a joint command post exercise by the Japanese and US forces. The Japanese Self-Defense Foces and the US military engaged in simulated joint exercise last week amid rising concerns over China's potential invasion of self-ruled island of Taiwan which Beijing claims as its own.

China has been named a hypothetical enemy for the first time in a joint command post exercise by the Japanese and US forces. The Japanese Self-Defense Foces and the US military engaged in simulated joint exercise last week amid rising concerns over China's potential invasion of self-ruled island of Taiwan which Beijing claims as its own. The computer simulation exercise, which began on Feb 1 and is scheduled to go on till Feb 8 envisioned an emergency in Taiwan. A provisional name was previously used when referring to an enemy, Japan Times reported. Also watch | US, Japan game out military clash with China × The report added that Japan's defence ministry is believed to have classified the scenario as a specially designated secret under the country's secrecy law. What does it mean? The Tokyo-Washington's simulated move reflects a heightened sense of urgency as Taiwan continues to be at the centre of a geopolitical and geoeconomic spotlight amid Beijing's avowal for the formation of a 'unified China'. The US Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns said in February last year that Chinese President Xi Jinping had instructed his country's military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027. Also read | US, Japan all set to develop hypersonic missile interceptor: Report The United States and Japan have had a number of joint operation plans in which they envision emergencies. A draft as such about Taiwan completed just at the end of 2023. What next? The simulation exercise will have its results reflected in the final plans for a Taiwan scenario scheduled to be compiled by the end of this year. Actual troops are also expected to perform a live-action demonstration of the "Keen Sword" drill around 2025 to verify its efficacy, Japan Times reported. Japan and the United States began conducting joint drills in 1986, with the two countries holding "Keen Edge" and "Keen Sword" exercises roughly every other year. Gen Yoshihide Yoshida, chief of the Japanese Defense Ministry's Joint Staff, however had said at a news conference on Jan. 25 that the exercise "did not envision a particular country or region." (With inputs from agencies)

US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan

<p>Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministers in Edinburgh, as per the Guardian, are likely to confirm the increase from 50p to 65p per unit starting in May, a step taken six years after Scotland led the UK in introducing this pricing strategy.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pablo-escobars-cocaine-hippos-attacking-people-in-colombia-687134">Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia</a></strong></p>

<p>The proposed 65p minimum unit price is meant to keep up with inflation and maintain control over the sale of inexpensive alcohol. Advocates for public health welcome this, emphasising its potential to improve overall well-being. Under the revised pricing, a standard bottle of whisky in Scotland is expected to cost £18.20 ($22.92), vodka £16.90 ($21.28), and a four-pack of basic lager £4.58 ($5.77).</p>

<h2><strong>Scotland and deaths because of alcohol</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, Public Health Scotland reported a positive impact, with a 13.5 per cent drop in deaths solely linked to alcohol minimum pricing.</p>

<p>However, the country has seen a worrying 25 per cent rise in alcohol-related deaths in the last three years, coupled with a 40 per cent decline in people seeking alcohol treatment services over a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>For and against&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Willie Rennie, the former leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats and now the party's economy spokesperson, as per the report expressed his happiness over the move.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-simulate-military-exercise-to-counter-chinese-threat-against-taiwan-687137">US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan</a></strong></p>

<p>A long-time champion of the measure, Rennie said, "More than 20 people a week in Scotland die due to alcohol misuse, so we need to take steps to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities."</p>

<p>"That's before you even get to the pressure that it imposes on our health and justice systems," he said.</p>

<p>However, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is reportedly planning to argue for the elimination of minimum pricing.</p>

<p>"Targeted measures have significantly greater impact without penalising the vast majority who do drink responsibly," said the trade association's consumer affairs director David Richardson.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Scottish Labour supports the policy but suggested an additional alcohol levy on retailers. This levy, they propose, would tax the extra profits retailers make due to minimum pricing, directing the funds towards the NHS and efforts to combat addiction.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems.

Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems. Ministers in Edinburgh, as per the Guardian, are likely to confirm the increase from 50p to 65p per unit starting in May, a step taken six years after Scotland led the UK in introducing this pricing strategy. Also read | Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia The proposed 65p minimum unit price is meant to keep up with inflation and maintain control over the sale of inexpensive alcohol. Advocates for public health welcome this, emphasising its potential to improve overall well-being. Under the revised pricing, a standard bottle of whisky in Scotland is expected to cost £18.20 ($22.92), vodka £16.90 ($21.28), and a four-pack of basic lager £4.58 ($5.77). Scotland and deaths because of alcohol Last year, Public Health Scotland reported a positive impact, with a 13.5 per cent drop in deaths solely linked to alcohol minimum pricing. However, the country has seen a worrying 25 per cent rise in alcohol-related deaths in the last three years, coupled with a 40 per cent decline in people seeking alcohol treatment services over a decade. For and against Willie Rennie, the former leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats and now the party's economy spokesperson, as per the report expressed his happiness over the move. Also read | US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan A long-time champion of the measure, Rennie said, "More than 20 people a week in Scotland die due to alcohol misuse, so we need to take steps to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities." "That's before you even get to the pressure that it imposes on our health and justice systems," he said. However, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is reportedly planning to argue for the elimination of minimum pricing. "Targeted measures have significantly greater impact without penalising the vast majority who do drink responsibly," said the trade association's consumer affairs director David Richardson. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour supports the policy but suggested an additional alcohol levy on retailers. This levy, they propose, would tax the extra profits retailers make due to minimum pricing, directing the funds towards the NHS and efforts to combat addiction. (With inputs from agencies)

Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis

<p>The offspring of illegal hippopotamuses imported to Colombia by late druglord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s have started attacking people, according to media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since these hippos do not have any natural predators in the South American country, their reign of terror has extended to humans who have become the target of their&nbsp;brute aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They're very, very dangerous. The hippos have started to attack people," one local was quoted as saying by <em>Fox News</em>.</p>

<p>Others said the giant hippos were "unpredictable and aggressive" and if one squared up against them, the best course of action is to quickly hide and hope they do not come after you.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, one of the hippos, belonging to Escobar's collection died after being struck by a car.&nbsp;While the hippo died on the spot, the driver of the car was sent for medical assistance by emergency personnel.</p>

<p>The hippos were brought to Escobar's&nbsp;private zoo in Hacienda Nápoles in the 1980s. However, after Escobar's death in 1993, these animals have spread to the nearby rivers, reproducing without control, forcing Colombia's Ministry of Environment to declare them an invasive species as they threaten the entire ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/colombia-grapples-with-escobars-hippopotamus-legacy-588442"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Colombia grapples with Escobar's Hippopotamus legacy</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Invasive species&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As their population grew to 150, the hippos started polluting soil and water and wiping out native plants in the region. The officials said that their faeces affected water oxygen levels, lowered the water quality and caused widespread fish fatalities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are in a race against time in terms of permanent environmental and ecosystem impacts,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Colombian environmental minister Susana Muhamad told the <em>New York Times</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The environmental authorities have been helpless to curb their numbers. According to a study in Nature journal, their numbers could increase to 1,500 in 20 years. The authorities have tried various methods like using contraceptive darts and other methods to control their population, but these have yielded limited success.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-rules-pablo-escobars-cocaine-hippos-are-legally-people-422874"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Court rules Pablo Escobar's&nbsp;hippos are legally people</strong></a></p>

<p>As part of another plan, the authorities are hoping to sterilise 40 hippos a year and transfer some of them to other countries while euthanising a few.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the sterilisation task remains difficult as spotting and capturing these aggressive animals is complicated. Additionally, it costs about $9,800 for each sterilisation, making it an expensive job as well.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The offspring of illegal hippopotamuses imported to Colombia by late druglord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s have started attacking people, according to media reports.

The offspring of illegal hippopotamuses imported to Colombia by late druglord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s have started attacking people, according to media reports. Since these hippos do not have any natural predators in the South American country, their reign of terror has extended to humans who have become the target of their brute aggression. "They're very, very dangerous. The hippos have started to attack people," one local was quoted as saying by Fox News. Others said the giant hippos were "unpredictable and aggressive" and if one squared up against them, the best course of action is to quickly hide and hope they do not come after you. Last year, one of the hippos, belonging to Escobar's collection died after being struck by a car. While the hippo died on the spot, the driver of the car was sent for medical assistance by emergency personnel. The hippos were brought to Escobar's private zoo in Hacienda Nápoles in the 1980s. However, after Escobar's death in 1993, these animals have spread to the nearby rivers, reproducing without control, forcing Colombia's Ministry of Environment to declare them an invasive species as they threaten the entire ecosystem. Watch | Colombia grapples with Escobar's Hippopotamus legacy × Invasive species As their population grew to 150, the hippos started polluting soil and water and wiping out native plants in the region. The officials said that their faeces affected water oxygen levels, lowered the water quality and caused widespread fish fatalities. "We are in a race against time in terms of permanent environmental and ecosystem impacts," Colombian environmental minister Susana Muhamad told the New York Times. The environmental authorities have been helpless to curb their numbers. According to a study in Nature journal, their numbers could increase to 1,500 in 20 years. The authorities have tried various methods like using contraceptive darts and other methods to control their population, but these have yielded limited success. Also read | Court rules Pablo Escobar's hippos are legally people As part of another plan, the authorities are hoping to sterilise 40 hippos a year and transfer some of them to other countries while euthanising a few. However, the sterilisation task remains difficult as spotting and capturing these aggressive animals is complicated. Additionally, it costs about $9,800 for each sterilisation, making it an expensive job as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia

The United States' Texas governor has vowed to defy the Biden Administration and maintain State control of a US border hotspot as long as it takes while the Biden Administration has maintained that border control Falls strictly under Federal jurisdiction.

US-Mexico border crisis | Democrats and Republicans spar over migrant crisis

A Palestinian doctor working at al-Ahli al-Arab hospital in Gaza City was detained by Israeli forces during their takeover of the hospital.

Israel-Palestine war: Gaza doctor reveals disturbing details of detention under IDF

<p>A US-based professor was fired from job after her "anti-Israel rant". She has been identified in local reports as Shellyne Rodriguez. Once, she was previously caught on camera holding a machete to a reporter's neck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The New York Post, the 47-year-old Rodriguez wrote in an e-mail to students a week after the spring semester kicked off, "Cooper Union has fired me because of a social media post I made about 'Zionists'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year in May, she was fired by Hunter College after threatening to "cut up" a reporter outside her flat who asked her about a viral video in which she insulted Pro-Life students at school.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-carries-out-strikes-against-five-missiles-in-yemen-687077">Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rodriguez further wrote, "This is fascism. Ya'll are learning about it in real-time. Stay strong, [stay] brave, stay defiant, don't bite your tongue, and drink plenty of water! Pa-lante!"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine shared her January 23 e-mail the next day on the social media platform Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine wrote, "This firing represents an intense escalation of McCarthyist repression meant to intimidate and punish those in support of a Free Palestine and must be resisted to prevent its further normalisation and the ongoing genocide in Gaza."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Blade-Wielding Professor Shellyne Rodriguez Fired from Cooper Union Over Anti-Israel Rants<br />
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Shellyne Rodriguez, the professor previously captured on camera holding a blade to a Post reporter's neck in May, has been fired from her recent teaching position at Cooper Union due to… <a href="https://t.co/Nec5xSH6BC">pic.twitter.com/Nec5xSH6BC</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Why was she fired?</strong></h2>

<p>The official reason for her firing was not given, and spokeswoman&nbsp;for the college reportedly said&nbsp;that it does not comment on personnel matters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But in her Instagram post, Rodriguez said she was fired over "public comments about 'Zionists'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pro-Palestinian student group slammed her firing as "an intense escalation of repression" that "must be resisted".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a letter to the administration, the group wrote, "The Cooper Union wrongfully terminated a valued educator who is indispensable to the community and the academic livelihood of students."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pro-Palestinian group also defended her for speaking out against "genocide and settler-colonial violence".&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A US-based professor was fired from job after her "anti-Israel rant". She has been identified in local reports as Shellyne Rodriguez. Once, she was previously caught on camera holding a machete to a reporter's neck.

A US-based professor was fired from job after her "anti-Israel rant". She has been identified in local reports as Shellyne Rodriguez. Once, she was previously caught on camera holding a machete to a reporter's neck. As quoted by The New York Post, the 47-year-old Rodriguez wrote in an e-mail to students a week after the spring semester kicked off, "Cooper Union has fired me because of a social media post I made about 'Zionists'." Last year in May, she was fired by Hunter College after threatening to "cut up" a reporter outside her flat who asked her about a viral video in which she insulted Pro-Life students at school. Also read: Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen Rodriguez further wrote, "This is fascism. Ya'll are learning about it in real-time. Stay strong, [stay] brave, stay defiant, don't bite your tongue, and drink plenty of water! Pa-lante!" Meanwhile, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine shared her January 23 e-mail the next day on the social media platform Instagram. As quoted, the Cooper Union Students for Justice in Palestine wrote, "This firing represents an intense escalation of McCarthyist repression meant to intimidate and punish those in support of a Free Palestine and must be resisted to prevent its further normalisation and the ongoing genocide in Gaza." Blade-Wielding Professor Shellyne Rodriguez Fired from Cooper Union Over Anti-Israel Rants Shellyne Rodriguez, the professor previously captured on camera holding a blade to a Post reporter's neck in May, has been fired from her recent teaching position at Cooper Union due to… pic.twitter.com/Nec5xSH6BC — Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) February 4, 2024 × Why was she fired? The official reason for her firing was not given, and spokeswoman for the college reportedly said that it does not comment on personnel matters. But in her Instagram post, Rodriguez said she was fired over "public comments about 'Zionists'." The pro-Palestinian student group slammed her firing as "an intense escalation of repression" that "must be resisted". In a letter to the administration, the group wrote, "The Cooper Union wrongfully terminated a valued educator who is indispensable to the community and the academic livelihood of students." The pro-Palestinian group also defended her for speaking out against "genocide and settler-colonial violence". (With inputs from agencies)

US professor fired over ‘anti-Israel rant’. She once held machete to reporter’s neck

Israel was supposed to kill Soleimani with us, says former US President Donald Trump

Russia’s deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko visited South Korea to discuss the Ukrainian war and bilateral ties, Seoul’s foreign ministry said on Sunday, as the two countries trade increasingly heated rhetoric over the nuclear-armed North.

Russian deputy foreign minister in Seoul, diplomatic row over North Korea comments

The latest data released by the World Health Organisation suggests that the real Covid death figures might be three times the reported number. Till now, the official data has reported over 7 million fatalities from the beginning of the pandemic.

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The second edition of the World Defence Show is underway in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The 5-day show is a unique platform for the world's defence industry to discover new innovations and capabilities across all defence domains.

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<p>Amid limited gains made in the two-year&nbsp;war against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is mulling a "reset" to replace several top officials including the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For weeks, the speculations have been rife that Zelensky will fire the highly popular Valerii Zaluzhnyi. The two have been at odds over the current strategy to make headways in the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is a question of the people who are to lead Ukraine. A reset is necessary, I am talking about a replacement of a number of state leaders, not only in the army sector,” Zelensky said in an interview on Sunday (Feb 4)</p>

<p>“When I speak of turnover, I have in mind something serious that does not concern a single person, but the direction of the country’s leadership,” he added when asked about Zaluzhnyi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian prez said to win the war, "We&nbsp;must all push in the same direction, we cannot be discouraged, we must have the right and positive energy, negativity must be left at home. We can't take on giving-up attitudes."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-russian-soldiers-wives-call-for-their-return-686841"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow: Russian soldiers' wives call for their return</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>Frosty relations</b></h2>

<p>A few days ago, <em>The Washington Post c</em>arried a report claiming that the Zelensky administration had already informed the United States that&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi&nbsp;was being fired.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outlet stated that the White House “did not support or object to” the decision, recognising it as the sovereign right of the Ukrainian president.</p>

<p>Notably, the relations between the two men deteriorated after&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi wrote a column for the Economist last November wherein he said the war had entered a new attrition phase. The comment instantly drew a rebuke from Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While&nbsp;Zaluzhnyi receives flak from Zelenskym he has earned the admiration of Ukrainians for overseeing operations that repeled the Russian forces from advancing on Kyiv at the beginning of the war and during subsequent attempts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-soldier-receives-vegetables-as-compensation-for-war-injuries-report-674319"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russian soldier receives vegetables as compensation for war injuries: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Ukraine has struggled to retake territory from Russia, despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive in June last year, after stocking on Western&nbsp;weapons.</p>

<p>The failure to make inroads has added to Zelensky's frustration who believes that a rejig is the best way to re-energise the forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Moscow has intensified its assault by using a record number of drones, according to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid limited gains made in the two-year war against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is mulling a "reset" to replace several top officials including the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces.

Amid limited gains made in the two-year war against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is mulling a "reset" to replace several top officials including the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces. For weeks, the speculations have been rife that Zelensky will fire the highly popular Valerii Zaluzhnyi. The two have been at odds over the current strategy to make headways in the war. “It is a question of the people who are to lead Ukraine. A reset is necessary, I am talking about a replacement of a number of state leaders, not only in the army sector,” Zelensky said in an interview on Sunday (Feb 4) “When I speak of turnover, I have in mind something serious that does not concern a single person, but the direction of the country’s leadership,” he added when asked about Zaluzhnyi. The Ukrainian prez said to win the war, "We must all push in the same direction, we cannot be discouraged, we must have the right and positive energy, negativity must be left at home. We can't take on giving-up attitudes." Watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Moscow: Russian soldiers' wives call for their return × Frosty relations A few days ago, The Washington Post carried a report claiming that the Zelensky administration had already informed the United States that Zaluzhnyi was being fired. The outlet stated that the White House “did not support or object to” the decision, recognising it as the sovereign right of the Ukrainian president. Notably, the relations between the two men deteriorated after Zaluzhnyi wrote a column for the Economist last November wherein he said the war had entered a new attrition phase. The comment instantly drew a rebuke from Zelensky. While Zaluzhnyi receives flak from Zelenskym he has earned the admiration of Ukrainians for overseeing operations that repeled the Russian forces from advancing on Kyiv at the beginning of the war and during subsequent attempts. Also read | Russian soldier receives vegetables as compensation for war injuries: Report Ukraine has struggled to retake territory from Russia, despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive in June last year, after stocking on Western weapons. The failure to make inroads has added to Zelensky's frustration who believes that a rejig is the best way to re-energise the forces. Meanwhile, Moscow has intensified its assault by using a record number of drones, according to Kyiv. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky planning to fire senior officials, including military chief as Ukraine struggles in war

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<p>The United States military said on Sunday (Feb 4) that it carried out strikes against five missiles in Yemen- one of them designed for land attack and the others for targeting ships. In a post on social media, Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US forces conducted a strike in self-defence against a Houthi...land attack cruise missile," and later struck "four anti-ship cruise missiles, all of which were prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The missiles were identified in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region," CENTCOM added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-may-launch-additional-strikes-against-iran-backed-groups-686946">Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups</a></strong></p>

<p>The strikes came a day after US and UK forces launched a wave of air raids against Houthi rebels- their third round of joint military action in response to the group's persistent attacks on shipping, a month after the Israel-Hamas war started in October last year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>US intends to further strike Iran-backed groups</h2>

<p>&nbsp;The US is intending to launch further strikes at Iran-backed groups in the Middle East, National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said. "We intend to take additional strikes, and additional action, to continue to send a clear message that the United States will respond when our forces are attacked when our people are killed," Sullivan told NBC channel.</p>

<p>The ongoing strikes against Iran-backed groups are the latest blow to the Israel-Hamas war which has caused a crisis in the Middle East. Since the conflict started, Iran-backed groups- Hezbollah, Houthis and Iraq militias have entered the fray across the Middle East, declaring support for Palestinians.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel</strong></p>

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<p>Hezbollah has fired at Israeli targets at the Lebanese-Israeli border, Iraqi militias have fired on US forces in Iraq and Syria, and the Houthis have fired on shipping in the Red Sea and at Israel itself.</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken begins fifth trip to Middle East</strong></h2>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken started his fifth trip to the Middle East to secure a new truce in the Israel-Hamas war. Blinken is expected to visit Saudi Arabia, Israel, Egypt and Qatar.</p>

<p>Ahead of the trip, Blinken stressed the need for "urgently addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza", after aid groups have repeatedly sounded the alarm over the devastating impact on the besieged territory of nearly five months of war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States military said on Sunday (Feb 4) that it carried out strikes against five missiles in Yemen- one of them designed for land attack and the others for targeting ships.

The United States military said on Sunday (Feb 4) that it carried out strikes against five missiles in Yemen- one of them designed for land attack and the others for targeting ships. In a post on social media, Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US forces conducted a strike in self-defence against a Houthi...land attack cruise missile," and later struck "four anti-ship cruise missiles, all of which were prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea." The missiles were identified in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region," CENTCOM added. Also read | Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups The strikes came a day after US and UK forces launched a wave of air raids against Houthi rebels- their third round of joint military action in response to the group's persistent attacks on shipping, a month after the Israel-Hamas war started in October last year. US intends to further strike Iran-backed groups The US is intending to launch further strikes at Iran-backed groups in the Middle East, National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan said. "We intend to take additional strikes, and additional action, to continue to send a clear message that the United States will respond when our forces are attacked when our people are killed," Sullivan told NBC channel. The ongoing strikes against Iran-backed groups are the latest blow to the Israel-Hamas war which has caused a crisis in the Middle East. Since the conflict started, Iran-backed groups- Hezbollah, Houthis and Iraq militias have entered the fray across the Middle East, declaring support for Palestinians. Also watch | Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel × Hezbollah has fired at Israeli targets at the Lebanese-Israeli border, Iraqi militias have fired on US forces in Iraq and Syria, and the Houthis have fired on shipping in the Red Sea and at Israel itself. Blinken begins fifth trip to Middle East US Secretary of State Antony Blinken started his fifth trip to the Middle East to secure a new truce in the Israel-Hamas war. Blinken is expected to visit Saudi Arabia, Israel, Egypt and Qatar. Ahead of the trip, Blinken stressed the need for "urgently addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza", after aid groups have repeatedly sounded the alarm over the devastating impact on the besieged territory of nearly five months of war. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: US carries out strikes against five missiles in Yemen

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