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<p>The Ukraine war appears&nbsp;to have taken a backseat in global perception as Israel-Hamas war started in the month of October last year. But this has not lessened the suffering of Ukrainians, effort of Ukrainian army to drive Russian army out and resolve of the latter to stand ground and repel Ukrainian attacks. The war continues to resemble a stalemate with neither side gaining decisively in the ongoing conflict. A major news related to war has come from the Ukrainian camp. There are media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is unhappy with Ukraine army chief Valery Zaluzhny and is in a mind to replace him.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After some major battlefield&nbsp;advances in the initial months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of Ukrainian land and there were some major gains for the Ukrainian side. Meanwhile, the Western nations, particularly led by the United States poured billions and billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military help to Ukraine. Nations provided arms, ammunition and even tanks to Ukraine and this did help Ukrainian soldiers to be better equipped than their Russian adversaries. It was hence expected that Ukraine would launch a major counter-offensive and push Russians back.</p>

<p>Despite high anticipation, the decisive counter-offensive has not taken place. Excluding minor gains, the Ukrainian armed forces have not been able to push Russians back. The Russians remain dug in.</p>

<p>Multiple media reports now say that Zelensky now wants to replace army chief Zaluzhny and has already broached the subject with him.</p>

<p>Financial Times has reported that earlier this week, on Monday, Zelensky had a discussion with Zaluzhny on this matter and offered him another position in Ukraine's security apparatus. The four-star-general has reportedly refused to step down from the position of army chief and take up another post. Zelensky has reportedly told Zaluzhny that irrespective of his decision about taking the post being offered to him, he would be sacked as army chief.</p>

<h2><strong>The popular general</strong></h2>

<p>General Valery Zaluzhny remains popular in Ukraine as under him Ukrainian forces retook almost half of Russia-occupied regions in Ukraine in 2022. His assurances of major counteroffensive lifted morale of the Ukrainian people and projected an image globally that Ukraine was about to decisively fight back. This resulted in greater confidence among Western nations that helping Ukraine was indeed going to turn things around, helping the aid trickle.</p>

<h2><strong>So what's the feud between Zelensky and General Zaluzhny?</strong></h2>

<p>It is being reported that President Zelensky is not very happy with the situation of Ukraine army under General Zaluzhny, especially after the latter's promises of major counter-offensive were not fulfilled. The situation of Russia-Ukraine war has come to resemble World War I-style stagnant trench warfare with neither side making any decisive advance.</p>

<p>Although Ukraine received substantial help from the Western countries, Russia used the lull in hostilities to considerably fortify its position in Ukraine, as a result of which, its army has been able to repel Ukrainian attacks and even stage offensives elsewhere.</p>

<p>Zaluzhny was blamed by many in Ukraine's political circles for tactical mistakes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia and Ukraine exchange PoWs after plane crash prevented last swap</strong></p>

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<p>The general has not come up with a plan for 2024. Al-Jazeera has even reported that Zelensky has, at times, bypassed the army in some decisions to manage the armed forces and the war.</p>

<p>Ukraine was not able to gain advantage of brief but major chaos on the Russian side due to the rebellion of Wagner Group forces which were instrumental in some of Russia's gains in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Also, with no signs of major Ukrainian success on the battlefield, prominent voices in the Western camp, including from within US lawmaking circles have started doubting continuing to spend billions of dollars to help Ukraine. US President Joe Biden himself had to support the continued aid to Ukraine. But with US Presidential Election 2024 slated to take place later this year, there is, at least in theory, uncertainty about Biden's continued presence in the Oval Office.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/endgame-joe-biden-donald-trump-leads-over-serving-us-president-in-7-battleground-states-key-poll-finds-685746">Endgame Joe Biden? Donald Trump leads serving US president in 7 battleground states, key poll finds</a></strong></p>

<p>The clock appears to be ticking for Ukraine in spite of the European Union striking a deal for 50 billion euro aid for Kyiv. European Council president Charles Michel has made an announcement of the deal on social media platform X (formerly Twitter)</p>

<p>"All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget," said Michel.</p>

<p>"This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-unlocks-50-bln-euros-financial-aid-for-ukraine-amid-shifting-focus-on-gaza-red-sea-685938">EU unlock 50bn Euros financial aid for Ukraine amid shifting focus on Gaza, Red Sea</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have a deal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Unity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unity</a><br />
<br />
All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget.<br />
<br />
This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>.<br />
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EU is taking leadership &amp; responsibility in support for Ukraine; we know what is…</p>
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1753001809268920719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ukraine welcomed the development.</p>

<p>"EU Member States one more time show their solidarity and unity in the actions to Ukrainian people to withstand the war," wrote Ukraine's Prime Minister Denis Shmygal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Each of your votes is a significant contribution to our joint victory."</p>

<p>However, sustained support for Ukraine will likely depend on actual, tangible gains on the battlefield. Zelensky knows this and with increasing global pressure for him to deliver, General Zaluzhny's position looks shaky, irrespective of his massive popularity among Ukrainians.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Ukraine war appears to have taken a backseat in global perception as Israel-Hamas war started in the month of October last year. But this has not lessened the suffering of Ukrainians, effort of Ukrainian army to drive Russian army out and resolve of the latter to stand ground and repel Ukrainian attacks.

The Ukraine war appears to have taken a backseat in global perception as Israel-Hamas war started in the month of October last year. But this has not lessened the suffering of Ukrainians, effort of Ukrainian army to drive Russian army out and resolve of the latter to stand ground and repel Ukrainian attacks. The war continues to resemble a stalemate with neither side gaining decisively in the ongoing conflict. A major news related to war has come from the Ukrainian camp. There are media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is unhappy with Ukraine army chief Valery Zaluzhny and is in a mind to replace him. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After some major battlefield advances in the initial months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of Ukrainian land and there were some major gains for the Ukrainian side. Meanwhile, the Western nations, particularly led by the United States poured billions and billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military help to Ukraine. Nations provided arms, ammunition and even tanks to Ukraine and this did help Ukrainian soldiers to be better equipped than their Russian adversaries. It was hence expected that Ukraine would launch a major counter-offensive and push Russians back. Despite high anticipation, the decisive counter-offensive has not taken place. Excluding minor gains, the Ukrainian armed forces have not been able to push Russians back. The Russians remain dug in. Multiple media reports now say that Zelensky now wants to replace army chief Zaluzhny and has already broached the subject with him. Financial Times has reported that earlier this week, on Monday, Zelensky had a discussion with Zaluzhny on this matter and offered him another position in Ukraine's security apparatus. The four-star-general has reportedly refused to step down from the position of army chief and take up another post. Zelensky has reportedly told Zaluzhny that irrespective of his decision about taking the post being offered to him, he would be sacked as army chief. The popular general General Valery Zaluzhny remains popular in Ukraine as under him Ukrainian forces retook almost half of Russia-occupied regions in Ukraine in 2022. His assurances of major counteroffensive lifted morale of the Ukrainian people and projected an image globally that Ukraine was about to decisively fight back. This resulted in greater confidence among Western nations that helping Ukraine was indeed going to turn things around, helping the aid trickle. So what's the feud between Zelensky and General Zaluzhny? It is being reported that President Zelensky is not very happy with the situation of Ukraine army under General Zaluzhny, especially after the latter's promises of major counter-offensive were not fulfilled. The situation of Russia-Ukraine war has come to resemble World War I-style stagnant trench warfare with neither side making any decisive advance. Although Ukraine received substantial help from the Western countries, Russia used the lull in hostilities to considerably fortify its position in Ukraine, as a result of which, its army has been able to repel Ukrainian attacks and even stage offensives elsewhere. Zaluzhny was blamed by many in Ukraine's political circles for tactical mistakes. Watch | Russia and Ukraine exchange PoWs after plane crash prevented last swap × The general has not come up with a plan for 2024. Al-Jazeera has even reported that Zelensky has, at times, bypassed the army in some decisions to manage the armed forces and the war. Ukraine was not able to gain advantage of brief but major chaos on the Russian side due to the rebellion of Wagner Group forces which were instrumental in some of Russia's gains in Ukraine. Also, with no signs of major Ukrainian success on the battlefield, prominent voices in the Western camp, including from within US lawmaking circles have started doubting continuing to spend billions of dollars to help Ukraine. US President Joe Biden himself had to support the continued aid to Ukraine. But with US Presidential Election 2024 slated to take place later this year, there is, at least in theory, uncertainty about Biden's continued presence in the Oval Office. Also Read | Endgame Joe Biden? Donald Trump leads serving US president in 7 battleground states, key poll finds The clock appears to be ticking for Ukraine in spite of the European Union striking a deal for 50 billion euro aid for Kyiv. European Council president Charles Michel has made an announcement of the deal on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) "All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget," said Michel. "This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine." Also Read | EU unlock 50bn Euros financial aid for Ukraine amid shifting focus on Gaza, Red Sea We have a deal. #Unity All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for #Ukraine. EU is taking leadership & responsibility in support for Ukraine; we know what is… — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) February 1, 2024 × Ukraine welcomed the development. "EU Member States one more time show their solidarity and unity in the actions to Ukrainian people to withstand the war," wrote Ukraine's Prime Minister Denis Shmygal. "Each of your votes is a significant contribution to our joint victory." However, sustained support for Ukraine will likely depend on actual, tangible gains on the battlefield. Zelensky knows this and with increasing global pressure for him to deliver, General Zaluzhny's position looks shaky, irrespective of his massive popularity among Ukrainians. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief he wants to sack

<p>In a major respite for war-torn Ukraine, which had been jittery given the shifting focus on the war in Gaza and the escalating troubles for shipping routes in the Red Sea, the European Union member states on Thursday (Feb 1) unanimously agreed to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in financial aid.</p>

<p>The decision was taken during a summit in Brussels&nbsp;despite initial resistance from Hungary's Viktor Orban. European Council chief Charles Michel announced the breakthrough on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "We have a deal. Unity."&nbsp;Michel added, "All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine."</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while reacting to the unanimous EU deal said, "It is very important that the decision was made by all 27 leaders, which once again proves strong EU unity."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-student-found-dead-dead-in-cincinnati-third-such-death-in-a-week-in-us-685952">Indian student found dead in Cincinnati, third such incident in a week in US</a></p>

<p>"Continued EU financial support for Ukraine will strengthen long-term economic and financial stability, which is no less important than military assistance and sanctions pressure on Russia," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, tensions were rife&nbsp;between the EU and Hungary when Hungarian PM Orban pledged to obstruct the allocation of $54 billion in funds to Ukraine.&nbsp;In December, Orban prevented a vote on extending aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-maldivian-president-nasheed-relocates-to-ghana-without-informing-parliament-685947">Ex-Maldivian President Nasheed relocates to Ghana without informing parliament</a></p>

<p>Last December, EU leaders agreed to commence membership talks with Ukraine in a major victory for Zelensky. However, the EU accession process is time-consuming and it may take Ukraine many years before it joins the bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/facebook-ceo-mark-zuckerberg-apologises-to-families-of-exploited-children-685942">Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologises to families of exploited children</a></strong></p>

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<p>Hungary's leader chose not to veto the accession talks. As far as funds are concerned, unanimity among EU members was necessary for these decisions, which was ultimately achieved on Thursday (Feb 1). The funds are crucial for Ukraine as it is eagerly anticipating support for its battered economy amid the ongoing war with Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major respite for war-torn Ukraine, which had been jittery given the shifting focus on the war in Gaza and the escalating troubles for shipping routes in the Red Sea, the European Union member states on Thursday (Feb 1) unanimously agreed to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in financial aid.

In a major respite for war-torn Ukraine, which had been jittery given the shifting focus on the war in Gaza and the escalating troubles for shipping routes in the Red Sea, the European Union member states on Thursday (Feb 1) unanimously agreed to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in financial aid. The decision was taken during a summit in Brussels despite initial resistance from Hungary's Viktor Orban. European Council chief Charles Michel announced the breakthrough on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "We have a deal. Unity." Michel added, "All 27 leaders agreed on an additional €50 billion support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky while reacting to the unanimous EU deal said, "It is very important that the decision was made by all 27 leaders, which once again proves strong EU unity." Also Read | Indian student found dead in Cincinnati, third such incident in a week in US "Continued EU financial support for Ukraine will strengthen long-term economic and financial stability, which is no less important than military assistance and sanctions pressure on Russia," he added. Notably, tensions were rife between the EU and Hungary when Hungarian PM Orban pledged to obstruct the allocation of $54 billion in funds to Ukraine. In December, Orban prevented a vote on extending aid to Ukraine. Also Read | Ex-Maldivian President Nasheed relocates to Ghana without informing parliament Last December, EU leaders agreed to commence membership talks with Ukraine in a major victory for Zelensky. However, the EU accession process is time-consuming and it may take Ukraine many years before it joins the bloc. Watch | Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologises to families of exploited children × Hungary's leader chose not to veto the accession talks. As far as funds are concerned, unanimity among EU members was necessary for these decisions, which was ultimately achieved on Thursday (Feb 1). The funds are crucial for Ukraine as it is eagerly anticipating support for its battered economy amid the ongoing war with Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union unlocks 50bn euro financial aid for Ukraine amid shifting focus on Gaza, Red Sea

<p>France's leading farmers' union the FNSEA along with its close ally the Young Farmers (JA) on Thursday (Feb 1), called to end nationwide roadblocks over pay, tax and regulation.</p>

<p>FNSEA chief Arnaud Rousseau released a statement saying that the government was "listening" to their demands after Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced cash support and other measures for farmers.</p>

<p>"We have decided to suspend the roadblocks and move to a new form of mobilisation," JA president Arnaud Gaillot said at the same news conference.</p>

<h2><strong>Farmers clog roads with over 1,000 tractors around Brussels &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, farmers protesting across Europe over better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape, blocked roads around an EU summit taking place in Brussels with around 1,300 tractors, said a Belgian police official.</p>

<p>"There are over 1,000 tractors or agricultural machinery" being kept away from the gathering of the European Union's 27 leaders, a police spokesman told news agency AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further added that the farmers were mainly from Belgium.</p>

<p>The farmers were stopped from entering the European Council building where the EU leaders were holding a discussion over aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>However, they converged in front of the nearby European Parliament.</p>

<p>Farmers, according to AFP said that their aim was to take the demonstration to Brussels as the European elections were approaching in four months' time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-are-farmers-protesting-in-france-685265">Explained | Why are farmers protesting in France?</a></p>

<p>"We have the European elections and the Belgian elections then as well. So everybody is afraid they will be wiped off the map and we put other people in power," said one Belgian farmer, Dominique Houfflain, 51.</p>

<p>"We are taking advantage of the fact that there will be these two elections the same year to act," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Orban meets with protesting farmers in Brussels</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of the summit, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met with the protesting farmers in Brussels in a move to showcase his support for what he dubbed the "voice of the people".</p>

<p>"The voice of the people of the streets are not taken seriously by the leaders. It's a democratic deficit," said the nationalist leader in a video posted on his Facebook page.</p>

<p>"There's a European election in June. We need a new European Parliament. We have to find new leaders who really represent the people," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


France's leading farmers' union the FNSEA along with its close ally the Young Farmers (JA) on Thursday (Feb 1), called to end nationwide roadblocks over pay, tax and regulation.

France's leading farmers' union the FNSEA along with its close ally the Young Farmers (JA) on Thursday (Feb 1), called to end nationwide roadblocks over pay, tax and regulation. FNSEA chief Arnaud Rousseau released a statement saying that the government was "listening" to their demands after Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced cash support and other measures for farmers. "We have decided to suspend the roadblocks and move to a new form of mobilisation," JA president Arnaud Gaillot said at the same news conference. Farmers clog roads with over 1,000 tractors around Brussels Earlier in the day, farmers protesting across Europe over better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape, blocked roads around an EU summit taking place in Brussels with around 1,300 tractors, said a Belgian police official. "There are over 1,000 tractors or agricultural machinery" being kept away from the gathering of the European Union's 27 leaders, a police spokesman told news agency AFP. He further added that the farmers were mainly from Belgium. The farmers were stopped from entering the European Council building where the EU leaders were holding a discussion over aid to Ukraine. However, they converged in front of the nearby European Parliament. Farmers, according to AFP said that their aim was to take the demonstration to Brussels as the European elections were approaching in four months' time. Also read: Explained | Why are farmers protesting in France? "We have the European elections and the Belgian elections then as well. So everybody is afraid they will be wiped off the map and we put other people in power," said one Belgian farmer, Dominique Houfflain, 51. "We are taking advantage of the fact that there will be these two elections the same year to act," he added. Orban meets with protesting farmers in Brussels Ahead of the summit, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met with the protesting farmers in Brussels in a move to showcase his support for what he dubbed the "voice of the people". "The voice of the people of the streets are not taken seriously by the leaders. It's a democratic deficit," said the nationalist leader in a video posted on his Facebook page. "There's a European election in June. We need a new European Parliament. We have to find new leaders who really represent the people," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

France's top farmers' unions call for end to road blockades

<p>Russian court&nbsp;has&nbsp;handed down the first conviction&nbsp;since Moscow&nbsp;banned the “international LGBT movement” late last year. As of Thursday (Feb 1), there were three reported cases concerning the&nbsp;particular ban across multiple Russian cities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Out of stupidity’</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday (Feb 1), a court in the southern region of Volgograd found a man guilty of “displaying the symbols of an extremist organisation” after he posted an image of the LGBT flag online, reported Reuters citing the court’s press service.</p>

<p>Artyom P&nbsp;was ordered to pay a fine of $11 (1,000 rubles) after he admitted guilt and repented, saying he had posted the image “out of stupidity,” as per the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Woman detained</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, a court in the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod sentenced a woman to five days in administrative detention based on the recently passed law.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-imposes-ban-on-international-lgbt-movement-claims-it-to-be-extremist-group-664803">Russia imposes ban on 'international LGBT movement', terming it 'extremist group'</a></strong></p>

<p>A report by The Moscow Times, on Thursday (Feb 1) citing human rights group Egida said that a woman was jailed for wearing rainbow earrings. The woman was identified as Anastasia Yershova in court documents.</p>

<p>According to the report, the police tasked with combating “extremism” detained the woman after a group of “aggressive people” approached Yershova and her friend at a local cafe and filmed them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman was called to the police station after the man who had filmed the incident posted it online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video was also shared by ultra-conservative bloggers, according to The Moscow Times and showed the unidentified man threatening to hand them over to the police for wearing a Ukrainian flag pin and rainbow earrings.</p>

<p>As per court documents, Yershova was questioned by police and then brought before a judge who cited the ruling handed down by the Russian Supreme Court in Moscow on November 30.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, the apex court judge ruled that “the international LGBT public movement and its subdivisions” were extremist, and issued a “ban on its activities on the territory of Russia”. The ban took effect immediately.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Creative solutions'</strong></h2>

<p>Additionally, a trial against a photographer in Saratov in southwestern will also resume next week after she allegedly posted images of rainbow flags on Instagram, reported independent Russian news outlet Mediazona.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-takes-steps-to-make-foreigners-sign-a-loyalty-agreement-664324">Russia takes steps to make foreigners sign a 'loyalty agreement'</a></strong></p>

<p>The woman who was reportedly identified as 33-year-old photographer Inna Mosina, went to trial on Tuesday (Jan 30) and denied the charges against her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to The Moscow Times, the rainbow flag was posted on her Instagram page a month before the Supreme Court ruling went into force.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, during the hearing, she told the Leninsky District Court that the rainbow flags on her Instagram page are “creative solutions” and do not represent LGBTQ+ symbols, reported Mediazona.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Russian court has handed down the first conviction since Moscow banned the “international LGBT movement” late last year. As of Thursday (Feb 1), there were three reported cases concerning the particular ban across multiple Russian cities.

Russian court has handed down the first conviction since Moscow banned the “international LGBT movement” late last year. As of Thursday (Feb 1), there were three reported cases concerning the particular ban across multiple Russian cities. ‘Out of stupidity’ On Thursday (Feb 1), a court in the southern region of Volgograd found a man guilty of “displaying the symbols of an extremist organisation” after he posted an image of the LGBT flag online, reported Reuters citing the court’s press service. Artyom P was ordered to pay a fine of $11 (1,000 rubles) after he admitted guilt and repented, saying he had posted the image “out of stupidity,” as per the news agency. Woman detained Last week, a court in the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod sentenced a woman to five days in administrative detention based on the recently passed law. ALSO READ | Russia imposes ban on 'international LGBT movement', terming it 'extremist group' A report by The Moscow Times, on Thursday (Feb 1) citing human rights group Egida said that a woman was jailed for wearing rainbow earrings. The woman was identified as Anastasia Yershova in court documents. According to the report, the police tasked with combating “extremism” detained the woman after a group of “aggressive people” approached Yershova and her friend at a local cafe and filmed them. The woman was called to the police station after the man who had filmed the incident posted it online. The video was also shared by ultra-conservative bloggers, according to The Moscow Times and showed the unidentified man threatening to hand them over to the police for wearing a Ukrainian flag pin and rainbow earrings. As per court documents, Yershova was questioned by police and then brought before a judge who cited the ruling handed down by the Russian Supreme Court in Moscow on November 30. At the time, the apex court judge ruled that “the international LGBT public movement and its subdivisions” were extremist, and issued a “ban on its activities on the territory of Russia”. The ban took effect immediately. 'Creative solutions' Additionally, a trial against a photographer in Saratov in southwestern will also resume next week after she allegedly posted images of rainbow flags on Instagram, reported independent Russian news outlet Mediazona. ALSO READ | Russia takes steps to make foreigners sign a 'loyalty agreement' The woman who was reportedly identified as 33-year-old photographer Inna Mosina, went to trial on Tuesday (Jan 30) and denied the charges against her. According to The Moscow Times, the rainbow flag was posted on her Instagram page a month before the Supreme Court ruling went into force. On Tuesday, during the hearing, she told the Leninsky District Court that the rainbow flags on her Instagram page are “creative solutions” and do not represent LGBTQ+ symbols, reported Mediazona. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia makes arrests, convicts several people for ‘LGBT extremism’ since ban

The US base at the Omar oil field in Eastern Syria has reportedly been attacked by a drone. This comes as the US has planned a series of strikes against Iranian targets inside Iraq and Syria.

Jordan crisis: 3 US troops killed in strike on Jordan military base last month

<p>A 19-year-old American teenager met a tragic end after falling off a ledge at a popular&nbsp;canyon in Utah&nbsp;while he was trying to click photographs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jonathan Fielding had gone hiking with a group of friends near Moonscape Overlook in Torrey, Utah on Saturday (Feb 28). During hiking, he lost his footing and fell to his death. He fell approximately 300 feet and died immediately on impact.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/attackers-accidentally-murdered-their-own-member-while-killing-boy-now-face-life-sentences-684299">UK: Teens accidentally murdered their own group member while killing boy, now face life sentences</a></p>

<p>The teen, who was from Blue Springs, Missouri, had recently shifted to Orem, Utah, said his family, as reported by The Daily Mail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was called a 'photography enthusiast' by his loved ones. Moments before the tragedy occurred, Fielding had stopped to click photographs of the majestic views.</p>

<h2><strong>Teenager's death ruled&nbsp;'accidental'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>His death was ruled by the Wayne County officials as accidental.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was described by his grieving family as a "loving and caring son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, and cousin".</p>

<p>'While the passing of Jonathan was unexpected, we take some comfort knowing that he was doing what he loved at the time of the accident," the family wrote. "He was on a photoshoot with friends in the beautiful Utah wilderness where he loved to be," they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his obituary, Fielding was described as a "fun-loving, intelligent young man," and was called "Johnny" by his friends.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;North Korea: Teens sentenced to 12 years of hard labour for watching K Drama</strong></p>

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<p>"He had big dreams and hopes focused on sales. More important than his dreams and future plans, however, Jonathan was a good person," the obituary read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Jonathan truly cared about others. He would genuinely listen to you. He was truly a friend in every sense of the word," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He had many friends and was an influence for good. He was always kind to others. He would often notice those that needed help and offered them assistance and encouragement," the family members wrote in the obituary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to Facebook, his sister Rebecca Fielding said, "No view is worth your life. No view is worth the suffering that your family and friends will go through. No view is worth the risk that rescuers face when trying to save people and recover bodies. There was no reason for my brother to die. Please don’t make the same mistakes he did."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A 19-year-old American teenager met a tragic end after falling off a ledge at a popular canyon in Utah while he was trying to click photographs. Jonathan Fielding had gone hiking with a group of friends near Moonscape Overlook in Torrey, Utah on Saturday (Feb 28).

A 19-year-old American teenager met a tragic end after falling off a ledge at a popular canyon in Utah while he was trying to click photographs. Jonathan Fielding had gone hiking with a group of friends near Moonscape Overlook in Torrey, Utah on Saturday (Feb 28). During hiking, he lost his footing and fell to his death. He fell approximately 300 feet and died immediately on impact. Also read: UK: Teens accidentally murdered their own group member while killing boy, now face life sentences The teen, who was from Blue Springs, Missouri, had recently shifted to Orem, Utah, said his family, as reported by The Daily Mail. He was called a 'photography enthusiast' by his loved ones. Moments before the tragedy occurred, Fielding had stopped to click photographs of the majestic views. Teenager's death ruled 'accidental' His death was ruled by the Wayne County officials as accidental. He was described by his grieving family as a "loving and caring son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, and cousin". 'While the passing of Jonathan was unexpected, we take some comfort knowing that he was doing what he loved at the time of the accident," the family wrote. "He was on a photoshoot with friends in the beautiful Utah wilderness where he loved to be," they added. In his obituary, Fielding was described as a "fun-loving, intelligent young man," and was called "Johnny" by his friends. Watch: North Korea: Teens sentenced to 12 years of hard labour for watching K Drama "He had big dreams and hopes focused on sales. More important than his dreams and future plans, however, Jonathan was a good person," the obituary read. "Jonathan truly cared about others. He would genuinely listen to you. He was truly a friend in every sense of the word," it added. "He had many friends and was an influence for good. He was always kind to others. He would often notice those that needed help and offered them assistance and encouragement," the family members wrote in the obituary. Taking to Facebook, his sister Rebecca Fielding said, "No view is worth your life. No view is worth the suffering that your family and friends will go through. No view is worth the risk that rescuers face when trying to save people and recover bodies. There was no reason for my brother to die. Please don’t make the same mistakes he did." (With inputs from agencies)

'No view is worth your life': Sister laments after brother falls to death at a canyon in Utah

According to a recent study, dog breeds with short, long noses (dolichocephalic) had the highest life expectancy in the UK. Male dogs from brachycephalic (medium-sized, flat-faced) breeds, such as English Bulldogs, had the shortest lifespans, however.

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<p>Multiple gunshots were fired at pro-Khalistan Simranjeet Singh's residence in Surrey, Canada. He is an associate of now-dead pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Updates in Canadian media say that the firing took place in the early hours of Thursday (February 1) and that the house indeed belongs to Simranjeet Singh.</p>

<p>As per reports, a car parked at the house in Surrey was riddled with bullets.</p>

<p>Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police issued a release saying that it received a report of firing at 1:21 am on Thursday. Police officers “attended the scene and located evidence consistent with a shooting.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Surrey RCMP is investigating a report of shots fired in the 2800-block of 154 St on Feb 1. Frontline officers located evidence consistent with a shooting. No injuries were reported. Anyone with info should contact police at 604-599-0502.<br />
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News release: <a href="https://t.co/FHEudDXnTW">https://t.co/FHEudDXnTW</a> <a href="https://t.co/rCjeibCwWh">pic.twitter.com/rCjeibCwWh</a></p>
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<p>There was no immediate report of any injuries, but the police have launched an investigation nonetheless. As of now, the officials are considering this to be an "isolated incident". There isn't much clarity at the moment as to why the shooting took place.</p>

<p>The issue of pro-Khalistan elements has&nbsp;been a matter affecting Indo-Canadian ties. The relations between the two countries soured last year when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada was&nbsp;“actively pursuing credible allegations” that Indian agents were behind Nijjar's killing in June, 2023. India has denied any such involvement and has repeatedly asked Canada to furnish solid proof.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Multiple gunshots were fired at pro-Khalistan Simranjeet Singh's residence in Surrey, Canada. He is an associate of now-dead pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Multiple gunshots were fired at pro-Khalistan Simranjeet Singh's residence in Surrey, Canada. He is an associate of now-dead pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Updates in Canadian media say that the firing took place in the early hours of Thursday (February 1) and that the house indeed belongs to Simranjeet Singh. As per reports, a car parked at the house in Surrey was riddled with bullets. Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police issued a release saying that it received a report of firing at 1:21 am on Thursday. Police officers “attended the scene and located evidence consistent with a shooting.” Surrey RCMP is investigating a report of shots fired in the 2800-block of 154 St on Feb 1. Frontline officers located evidence consistent with a shooting. No injuries were reported. Anyone with info should contact police at 604-599-0502. News release: https://t.co/FHEudDXnTW pic.twitter.com/rCjeibCwWh — Surrey RCMP (@SurreyRCMP) February 2, 2024 × There was no immediate report of any injuries, but the police have launched an investigation nonetheless. As of now, the officials are considering this to be an "isolated incident". There isn't much clarity at the moment as to why the shooting took place. The issue of pro-Khalistan elements has been a matter affecting Indo-Canadian ties. The relations between the two countries soured last year when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada was “actively pursuing credible allegations” that Indian agents were behind Nijjar's killing in June, 2023. India has denied any such involvement and has repeatedly asked Canada to furnish solid proof. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Gunshots fired at pro-Khalistan Nijjar associate Simranjeet Singh's house

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Massive blaze & explosion reported in the Embakasi area of Nairobi. The fire from gas explosion in Kenya killed 2 and injured over 300. Kenyan firefighters battle massive blaze. Watch to know more!

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<p>The mother of the teenage boy behind the November 2021 school gun massacre has sought to blame her husband for failing to lock up the guns.</p>

<p>Michigan-resident Jennifer Crumbley, who is on trial on manslaughter charges for failing to stop her son from killing four and injuring others, on Thursday (Feb 1st) claimed that her spouse was responsible for safekeeping of the arms.</p>

<h2><strong>Blame Game?</strong></h2>

<p>On the sixth day of her trial (Thursday Feb 1st), 45-year-old Jennifer Crumbley took the stand. She is due for a cross-examination on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-michigan-shool-shooter-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole-667787">US: Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole</a></strong></p>

<p>She testified that her husband brought their son to a gun store the day after Thanksgiving to buy him a gun as a gift.</p>

<p>When asked who was responsible for storing the gun, she said "My husband is".</p>

<p>As per BBC, she said that she "didn't feel comfortable" being responsible for safely storing the gun.</p>

<p>"It was more his thing, so I let him handle that," she said, adding, "I didn't feel comfortable putting the lock thing on it. I'd just rather not, and let him do it."</p>

<p>According to Jennifer, the gun which had a cable lock was unlocked by her husband so she could take their son to a gun range, a few days later.</p>

<p>She said the gun was hidden in their bedroom, but that the keys were kept in the kitchen, and claimed that she wasn't aware that the teenager knew the location of the gun.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-teen-shooters-parents-to-face-trial-642296" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-teen-shooters-parents-to-face-trial-642296&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBtvGRjIyEAxWzd_UHHUM2CnwQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1yXyK03zk4nfhci0zttRT4" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-teen-shooters-parents-to-face-trial-642296" target="_blank">Michigan teen shooter's parents to face trial</a></strong></p>

<p>Her lawyers claim that she could not have predicted her son's actions, and that she was being unfairly blamed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, last year, at the attacker's trial, his lawyers argued that the teenager was neglected by his parents. A diary entry from just before the mass shooting was found to read: "I have zero help for my mental problems and it's causing me to shoot up the f*****g school."</p>

<h2><strong>Unprecedented case</strong></h2>

<p>The shooter Ethan Crumbley's parents Jennifer and James are facing&nbsp;charges of manslaughter in unprecedented trials, with the mother being the first parent to go on trial for a mass shooting carried out by their child.</p>

<p>James will go on trial next. If found guilty, they both face a 15-year sentence each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shooter, Ethan, who was 15 years old at the time of the shooting, pleaded guilty during his trial and is serving a life sentence for his crimes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The mother of the teenage boy behind the November 2021 school gun massacre has sought to blame her husband for failing to lock up the guns. Michigan-resident Jennifer Crumbley, who is on trial on manslaughter charges for failing to stop her son from killing four and injuring others, on Thursday (Feb 1st) claimed that her spouse was responsible for safekeeping of the arms.

The mother of the teenage boy behind the November 2021 school gun massacre has sought to blame her husband for failing to lock up the guns. Michigan-resident Jennifer Crumbley, who is on trial on manslaughter charges for failing to stop her son from killing four and injuring others, on Thursday (Feb 1st) claimed that her spouse was responsible for safekeeping of the arms. Blame Game? On the sixth day of her trial (Thursday Feb 1st), 45-year-old Jennifer Crumbley took the stand. She is due for a cross-examination on Friday. Also read | US: Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole She testified that her husband brought their son to a gun store the day after Thanksgiving to buy him a gun as a gift. When asked who was responsible for storing the gun, she said "My husband is". As per BBC, she said that she "didn't feel comfortable" being responsible for safely storing the gun. "It was more his thing, so I let him handle that," she said, adding, "I didn't feel comfortable putting the lock thing on it. I'd just rather not, and let him do it." According to Jennifer, the gun which had a cable lock was unlocked by her husband so she could take their son to a gun range, a few days later. She said the gun was hidden in their bedroom, but that the keys were kept in the kitchen, and claimed that she wasn't aware that the teenager knew the location of the gun. Also read | Michigan teen shooter's parents to face trial Her lawyers claim that she could not have predicted her son's actions, and that she was being unfairly blamed. However, last year, at the attacker's trial, his lawyers argued that the teenager was neglected by his parents. A diary entry from just before the mass shooting was found to read: "I have zero help for my mental problems and it's causing me to shoot up the f*****g school." Unprecedented case The shooter Ethan Crumbley's parents Jennifer and James are facing charges of manslaughter in unprecedented trials, with the mother being the first parent to go on trial for a mass shooting carried out by their child. James will go on trial next. If found guilty, they both face a 15-year sentence each. The shooter, Ethan, who was 15 years old at the time of the shooting, pleaded guilty during his trial and is serving a life sentence for his crimes. (With inputs from agencies)

Blame game: Michigan school shooter's mother says husband was responsible for storing gun

<p>A former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) software engineer, Joshua Schulte, who gave secrets to WikiLeaks, was sentenced to 40 years in prison on Thursday (Feb 1) for "espionage, computer hacking, contempt of court, making false statements to the FBI, and child pornography."</p>

<p>Notably, the Vault 7 leak, where a series of classified documents were leaked by WikiLeaks in March 2017, exposed details about the hacking tools and techniques used by the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for cyber espionage. The leak is considered one of the largest and most significant in the history of CIA disclosures.</p>

<p>The latest sentencing comes after 2022 conviction of Schulte on multiple charges, including four counts each of espionage and computer hacking, and one count of lying to FBI agents, media reports said.&nbsp;Prosecutors labeled Schulte's actions as "the largest data breach in the history of the CIA." The judge, however, did not impose a life sentence as requested by prosecutors.</p>

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<p>The release of Vault 7 raised concerns about the extent of government surveillance and the potential misuse of cyber tools for intelligence purposes. It also sparked debates about the balance between national security and individual privacy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leaked documents also detailed the CIA's methods for hacking and revealed collaborations with British intelligence to compromise smart televisions, transforming them into improvised surveillance devices.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gives-initial-positive-confirmation-on-truce-plan-says-qatar-686142">Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar</a></p>

<p>Earlier such leaks include Chelsea Manning, a former intelligence analyst in the US Army&nbsp;leaking a large amount of classified information to WikiLeaks in 2010, which included diplomatic cables, military logs from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and a classified video showing a US helicopter attack in Baghdad in 2007.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uks-labour-party-assures-economic-progress-over-conservatives-686135">UK's Labour Party assures economic progress over conservatives</a></strong></p>

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<p>Moreover, Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor, disclosed a vast amount of classified NSA documents to journalists in 2013. Snowden's revelations exposed extensive global surveillance programmes, conducted by the NSA and its Five Eyes alliance partners, which involved mass data collection on both US citizens and individuals around the world.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) software engineer, Joshua Schulte, who gave secrets to WikiLeaks, was sentenced to 40 years in prison on Thursday (Feb 1) for "espionage, computer hacking, contempt of court, making false statements to the FBI, and child pornography.

A former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) software engineer, Joshua Schulte, who gave secrets to WikiLeaks, was sentenced to 40 years in prison on Thursday (Feb 1) for "espionage, computer hacking, contempt of court, making false statements to the FBI, and child pornography." Notably, the Vault 7 leak, where a series of classified documents were leaked by WikiLeaks in March 2017, exposed details about the hacking tools and techniques used by the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for cyber espionage. The leak is considered one of the largest and most significant in the history of CIA disclosures. The latest sentencing comes after 2022 conviction of Schulte on multiple charges, including four counts each of espionage and computer hacking, and one count of lying to FBI agents, media reports said. Prosecutors labeled Schulte's actions as "the largest data breach in the history of the CIA." The judge, however, did not impose a life sentence as requested by prosecutors. Also Read | Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter & Gamble factory The release of Vault 7 raised concerns about the extent of government surveillance and the potential misuse of cyber tools for intelligence purposes. It also sparked debates about the balance between national security and individual privacy. The leaked documents also detailed the CIA's methods for hacking and revealed collaborations with British intelligence to compromise smart televisions, transforming them into improvised surveillance devices. Also Read | Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar Earlier such leaks include Chelsea Manning, a former intelligence analyst in the US Army leaking a large amount of classified information to WikiLeaks in 2010, which included diplomatic cables, military logs from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and a classified video showing a US helicopter attack in Baghdad in 2007. Watch | UK's Labour Party assures economic progress over conservatives × Moreover, Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor, disclosed a vast amount of classified NSA documents to journalists in 2013. Snowden's revelations exposed extensive global surveillance programmes, conducted by the NSA and its Five Eyes alliance partners, which involved mass data collection on both US citizens and individuals around the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Joshua Schulte, ex-CIA contractor who gave secrets to WikiLeaks, sentenced to 40 yrs for spying, child porn

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With the general elections just a week away, campaigning has peaked in Pakistan. One of the three main parties in the fray is the Pakistan Peoples Party, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Our Pakistan bureau chief, Anas Malick, caught up with him on a range of issues, including the party's electoral prospects, the possibility of allying with current rivals and his party's approach towards neighbour India.

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<p>Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking&nbsp;during a visit to Lebanon, he&nbsp;said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.</p>

<h2><strong>Terms and conditions applied</strong></h2>

<p>The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process."</p>

<p>"It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-gives-initial-positive-confirmation-on-truce-plan-says-qatar-686142">Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar</a></strong></p>

<p>"What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own."</p>

<p>However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seven-hostages-rescued-as-turkish-police-detain-gunman-protesting-gaza-war-at-procter-gamble-factory-686155">Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter &amp; Gamble factory</a></strong></p>

<p>The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region."</p>

<h2><strong>International support for two-state</strong></h2>

<p>Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement.</p>

<p>Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo".</p>

<p>As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire.

Britain's top diplomat, former prime minister David Cameron on Thursday (Feb 1st) said that his country could officially recognise a Palestinian state after a cease-fire. Speaking during a visit to Lebanon, he said this could be done without waiting for the outcome of what could be years-long talks on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Terms and conditions applied The British Foreign Secretary said that the UK's recognition of an independent State of Palestine "can't come at the start of the process, but it doesn't have to be the very end of the process." "It could be something that we consider as this process, as this advance to a solution, becomes more real," said Cameron. Also read | Hamas gives 'initial positive confirmation' on truce plan, says Qatar "What we need to do is give the Palestinian people a horizon towards a better future, the future of having a state of their own." However, he stated that no recognition could come while Hamas remained in Gaza. "You can't have a two-state solution with Gaza still controlled by the people responsible for 7 October," he said, referring to the Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Cameron also said the first step towards this must be a "pause in the fighting" in Gaza, which he said would eventually turn into "a permanent, sustainable ceasefire". Also read | Seven hostages rescued as Turkish police detain gunman protesting Gaza war at Procter & Gamble factory The ex-prime minister labelled the prospect "absolutely vital for the long-term peace and security of the region." International support for two-state Globally, many Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have voiced their support for the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, reports The Guardian. However, they stress that Palestinian independence must come as part of a negotiated settlement. Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have consistently been against the creation of an independent Palestinian state after the end of the ongoing war. Netanyahu, in December, even boasted that he was instrumental in stopping Palestine's statehood. Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US military says it downed Houthi missiles in Red Sea Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he claimed that he had halted the progression of the Oslo peace process. Calling the Oslo Accords "a fateful mistake", he said that Israel would not "repeat the mistake of Oslo". As per news outlet Common Dreams, he also said that the results of the "little Palestinian state in Gaza" brought about by the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 demonstrated the dangers of allowing Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain could officially recognise a Palestinian state after cease-fire, says top UK diplomat

<p>A Malaysian pardons board on Friday said it has decided to halve the jail sentence of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, who was convicted of graft and money laundering related to the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal.</p>

<p>Najib, who is serving a 12-year jail term, will be released in August 2028 and fines imposed on him reduced to 50 million ringgit ($10.59 million) from 210 million ringgit, the board's secretariat said in a statement.</p>

<p>The board, chaired by Malaysia's king, did not give a reason for halving Najib's sentence in its statement on Friday.</p>

<p>Najib was convicted for graft linked to state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), from which U.S. and Malaysian investigators estimate $4.5 billion was stolen and more than $1 billion channeled to accounts linked to the former premier.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas | The new Malaysian king who owns over 300 luxury cars</strong></p>

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<p>He applied for a royal pardon in August 2022 shortly after his conviction and his sentence was upheld by Malaysia's highest court, making him the first premier in the country's history to be jailed.</p>

<p>Najib has consistently denied wrongdoing, saying he was misled by fugitive financier Jho Low and other 1MDB officials over the source of the funds and that he believed they were donations from the Saudi royal family.</p>

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<p>He remains on trial in several other cases linked to corruption at 1MDB.</p>

<p>The pardons board said if Najib failed to pay the fine given, an additional year would be imposed on his jail term.</p>

<p>Malaysia's king plays a largely ceremonial role but can pardon convicted people among discretionary powers granted by the federal constitution.</p>

<p>The pardons board, which advises the king, includes the attorney-general and government officials.</p>


A Malaysian pardons board on Friday said it has decided to halve the jail sentence of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, who was convicted of graft and money laundering related to the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal.

A Malaysian pardons board on Friday said it has decided to halve the jail sentence of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, who was convicted of graft and money laundering related to the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal. Najib, who is serving a 12-year jail term, will be released in August 2028 and fines imposed on him reduced to 50 million ringgit ($10.59 million) from 210 million ringgit, the board's secretariat said in a statement. The board, chaired by Malaysia's king, did not give a reason for halving Najib's sentence in its statement on Friday. Najib was convicted for graft linked to state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), from which U.S. and Malaysian investigators estimate $4.5 billion was stolen and more than $1 billion channeled to accounts linked to the former premier. Gravitas | The new Malaysian king who owns over 300 luxury cars × He applied for a royal pardon in August 2022 shortly after his conviction and his sentence was upheld by Malaysia's highest court, making him the first premier in the country's history to be jailed. Najib has consistently denied wrongdoing, saying he was misled by fugitive financier Jho Low and other 1MDB officials over the source of the funds and that he believed they were donations from the Saudi royal family. Also Read | Sultan Ibrahim, Malaysia’s new king, owns a private army, over 300 cars and several jets He remains on trial in several other cases linked to corruption at 1MDB. The pardons board said if Najib failed to pay the fine given, an additional year would be imposed on his jail term. Malaysia's king plays a largely ceremonial role but can pardon convicted people among discretionary powers granted by the federal constitution. The pardons board, which advises the king, includes the attorney-general and government officials.

Malaysia pardons panel halves jail sentence of ex-pm Najib

<p>In Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday night (Feb 1st), a small plane crashed into a mobile home in Bayside Estates, leaving a trail of devastation that claimed multiple lives and ignited a fierce fire that engulfed nearby homes.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>During a late-night press briefing, Clearwater Fire &amp; Rescue Chief Scott Ehlers confirmed the loss of several lives, both in the ill-fated aircraft and within the mobile home.</p>

<p>The precise toll of this tragedy is not known as of now. However, as per a CBS news report, emergency responders were working tirelessly.</p>

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<p>"I can confirm we have several fatalities, both from the aircraft and within the mobile home," said Ehlers.</p>

<p>He explained that the aircraft collided with a solitary home, inflicting severe damage, but that the collateral impact of the ensuing fire extended to at least two additional homes.</p>

<p>"We're still working to make sure that there is no additional, and it's limited to what we do know right now."</p>

<p>The crash happened around 7:08 pm local time.</p>

<p>Chief Ehlers said, "The crews did a phenomenal job of getting the fire knocked down quickly."</p>

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<p>He said that the crew was still working to put out lingering hot spots and&nbsp;trying to reach victims in the affected zones.</p>

<h2><strong>Engine Failure</strong></h2>

<p>The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) later revealed that the crashed plane was a single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza V35.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We’re on scene of a small plane crash at a mobile home park south of Clearwater Mall. Multiple mobile homes have caught fire. Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions are on scene. <a href="https://t.co/1vBLnTnY8R">pic.twitter.com/1vBLnTnY8R</a></p>
— Clearwater Fire &amp; Rescue Department (@clearwaterfire) <a href="https://twitter.com/clearwaterfire/status/1753222211228282988?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The FAA disclosed that the pilot communicated an "engine failure" before the tragic crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During that conversation with the air tower, the air tower lost them off the radar&nbsp;about three miles north of the runway," said Ehlers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday night (Feb 1st), a small plane crashed into a mobile home in Bayside Estates, leaving a trail of devastation that claimed multiple lives and ignited a fierce fire that engulfed nearby homes.

In Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday night (Feb 1st), a small plane crashed into a mobile home in Bayside Estates, leaving a trail of devastation that claimed multiple lives and ignited a fierce fire that engulfed nearby homes. What happened? During a late-night press briefing, Clearwater Fire & Rescue Chief Scott Ehlers confirmed the loss of several lives, both in the ill-fated aircraft and within the mobile home. The precise toll of this tragedy is not known as of now. However, as per a CBS news report, emergency responders were working tirelessly. Also read | Japan's moon lander goes dormant once again, amazing final image of lunar surface. See it here! "I can confirm we have several fatalities, both from the aircraft and within the mobile home," said Ehlers. He explained that the aircraft collided with a solitary home, inflicting severe damage, but that the collateral impact of the ensuing fire extended to at least two additional homes. "We're still working to make sure that there is no additional, and it's limited to what we do know right now." The crash happened around 7:08 pm local time. Chief Ehlers said, "The crews did a phenomenal job of getting the fire knocked down quickly." Also read | North Korea fires multiple cruise missiles into West Sea - South Korea He said that the crew was still working to put out lingering hot spots and trying to reach victims in the affected zones. Engine Failure The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) later revealed that the crashed plane was a single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza V35. We’re on scene of a small plane crash at a mobile home park south of Clearwater Mall. Multiple mobile homes have caught fire. Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions are on scene. pic.twitter.com/1vBLnTnY8R — Clearwater Fire & Rescue Department (@clearwaterfire) February 2, 2024 × The FAA disclosed that the pilot communicated an "engine failure" before the tragic crash. "During that conversation with the air tower, the air tower lost them off the radar about three miles north of the runway," said Ehlers. (With inputs from agencies)

Fatal plane crash in Florida: Multiple dead after aircraft collides with mobile homes

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