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<p>Valerii Zaluzhnyi, ambassador to the UK and Ukraine's former commander-in-chief, declined a phone call from US Vice President JD Vance following his February Oval Office showdown with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Guardian reported, citing unnamed sources. It was a small moment, but it showed the position Zaluzhnyi is in. He is no longer Ukraine’s army chief, but he is still one of the most popular figures in the country, and many wonder if he could one day run for president.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-for-today-s-war-and-tomorrow-s-security-ukraine-s-new-flamingo-missile-is-the-gift-that-will-keep-on-giving-1756035953915"><strong>‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving</strong></a></p><h2><strong>From army leader to diplomat: Zaluzhnyi's journey through ranks</strong></h2><p>Zaluzhnyi led Ukraine’s defence in the first years of the war with Russia. Polls show he is trusted by millions and is the only person who could seriously challenge Zelensky in an election. In February 2024, Zelensky removed him as commander-in-chief and sent him to London as ambassador. Officially, it was a move to bring “new ideas.” But many in Ukraine saw it as a way to sideline him.</p><p>The general’s new life looks very different. He rides the London Underground, goes to theatre shows with his wife, and even posed for Vogue. But in his embassy office, he still studies battlefield footage and speaks with commanders back home. Visitors, from MPs to businessmen, often come to the embassy, curious about his political future. Even Paul Manafort, Donald Trump’s former adviser, offered to help him. Zaluzhnyi said no.</p><h2><strong>How is Zaluzhnyi's relationship with Zelensky?</strong></h2><p>Zaluzhnyi has promised not to criticise Zelensky while the war goes on. Still, tensions between them are no secret. They clashed over strategy before and after Russia’s invasion. His rising popularity also made Zelensky’s team uneasy. Yet when Trump humiliated Zelensky in Washington earlier this year, Zaluzhnyi posted a photo of the two men together, writing, “The road ahead won’t be easy, but together, we will overcome every challenge.”</p><h2><strong>Will he run for president?</strong></h2><p>Zaluzhnyi has never said he will enter politics, but people close to him believe he is waiting for the right time. Analysts say he would present himself as a tough wartime leader, asking Ukrainians for “blood, sweat and tears” to survive. For now, he remains cautious. He stays loyal to Zelensky in public, even as many Ukrainians quietly see him as a possible future president.</p>

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, now Ukraine’s UK ambassador, declined a call from US Vice President Vance after tensions with Zelensky. Once army chief, he remains widely popular and a potential presidential challenger.

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, ambassador to the UK and Ukraine's former commander-in-chief, declined a phone call from US Vice President JD Vance following his February Oval Office showdown with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Guardian reported, citing unnamed sources. It was a small moment, but it showed the position Zaluzhnyi is in. He is no longer Ukraine’s army chief, but he is still one of the most popular figures in the country, and many wonder if he could one day run for president. Also read: ‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving From army leader to diplomat: Zaluzhnyi's journey through ranks Zaluzhnyi led Ukraine’s defence in the first years of the war with Russia. Polls show he is trusted by millions and is the only person who could seriously challenge Zelensky in an election. In February 2024, Zelensky removed him as commander-in-chief and sent him to London as ambassador. Officially, it was a move to bring “new ideas.” But many in Ukraine saw it as a way to sideline him. The general’s new life looks very different. He rides the London Underground, goes to theatre shows with his wife, and even posed for Vogue. But in his embassy office, he still studies battlefield footage and speaks with commanders back home. Visitors, from MPs to businessmen, often come to the embassy, curious about his political future. Even Paul Manafort, Donald Trump’s former adviser, offered to help him. Zaluzhnyi said no. How is Zaluzhnyi's relationship with Zelensky? Zaluzhnyi has promised not to criticise Zelensky while the war goes on. Still, tensions between them are no secret. They clashed over strategy before and after Russia’s invasion. His rising popularity also made Zelensky’s team uneasy. Yet when Trump humiliated Zelensky in Washington earlier this year, Zaluzhnyi posted a photo of the two men together, writing, “The road ahead won’t be easy, but together, we will overcome every challenge.” Will he run for president? Zaluzhnyi has never said he will enter politics, but people close to him believe he is waiting for the right time. Analysts say he would present himself as a tough wartime leader, asking Ukrainians for “blood, sweat and tears” to survive. For now, he remains cautious. He stays loyal to Zelensky in public, even as many Ukrainians quietly see him as a possible future president.

<p>Valerii Zaluzhnyi, now Ukraine’s UK ambassador, declined a call from US Vice President Vance after tensions with Zelensky. Once army chief, he remains widely popular and a potential presidential challenger.</p>

Ukraine’s general in London: Is Valerii Zaluzhnyi’s waiting to replace Zelensky as Ukraine's future president?

<p>US President Donald Trump said on Monday (August 25) that his move to deploy national guard in Washington, DC has led to many Americans saying, "We don’t need him. Freedom. Freedom. He’s a dictator. He’s a dictator." But - Trump is not a dictator, said Trump. The American president said that there are also "a &nbsp;lot of people are saying, ‘Maybe we’d like a dictator'." But, Trump said, "I’m not a dictator."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Moreover, Trump also gave a subtle definition of the fascism by describing the opposite features; He said, "I’m a man with great common sense, and I’m a smart person."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"And when I see what’s happened to our cities, and then you send in troops. Instead of being praised, they’re saying, ‘You’re trying to take over the Republic.’ These people are sick," he added.</p><p>He said that, “in a certain way, we should wait to be asked” to bring in troops, but reflecting on the impact of his sending national guard into Los Angeles earlier this summer, he added: "But I think people should want us to be there, because otherwise all they’ll do is complain as we do our job. So we’ll have to think about that."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Moreover, the American president added that he has a “great relationship” with the North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong-un. “I have a very good relationship. I understand them. I spent a lot of free time with them, talking about things that we probably aren’t supposed to talk about.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-paid-zero-in-9bn-intel-deal-despite-critics-fury-1756134323490"><strong>'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite&nbsp;critics’&nbsp;fury</strong></a></p><h2>‘Specialised units’ of National Guard</h2><p>Trump signed multiple executive orders on Monday (August 25), including the one under which the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will establish “specialised units” in the National Guard. The guards will be trained and equipped "specifically" to deal with public order issues.” This came after Hegseth issued a directive last week that authorized members of the National Guard to carry weapons. Those guards were deployed as part of Trump’s anti-crime agenda in Washington, DC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Monday, Trump suggested he’d ask Congress to codify the action, telling reporters in the Oval Office, “I think Democrats will actually vote for this.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Donald Trump said on August 25 that many Americans think he is a dictator after his order to deploy nationals guards in Washington. He said he does not like a dictator, and he is not a dictator. 

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (August 25) that his move to deploy national guard in Washington, DC has led to many Americans saying, "We don’t need him. Freedom. Freedom. He’s a dictator. He’s a dictator." But - Trump is not a dictator, said Trump. The American president said that there are also "a lot of people are saying, ‘Maybe we’d like a dictator'." But, Trump said, "I’m not a dictator." Moreover, Trump also gave a subtle definition of the fascism by describing the opposite features; He said, "I’m a man with great common sense, and I’m a smart person." "And when I see what’s happened to our cities, and then you send in troops. Instead of being praised, they’re saying, ‘You’re trying to take over the Republic.’ These people are sick," he added. He said that, “in a certain way, we should wait to be asked” to bring in troops, but reflecting on the impact of his sending national guard into Los Angeles earlier this summer, he added: "But I think people should want us to be there, because otherwise all they’ll do is complain as we do our job. So we’ll have to think about that." Moreover, the American president added that he has a “great relationship” with the North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong-un. “I have a very good relationship. I understand them. I spent a lot of free time with them, talking about things that we probably aren’t supposed to talk about.” Also read: 'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite critics’ fury ‘Specialised units’ of National Guard Trump signed multiple executive orders on Monday (August 25), including the one under which the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will establish “specialised units” in the National Guard. The guards will be trained and equipped "specifically" to deal with public order issues.” This came after Hegseth issued a directive last week that authorized members of the National Guard to carry weapons. Those guards were deployed as part of Trump’s anti-crime agenda in Washington, DC. On Monday, Trump suggested he’d ask Congress to codify the action, telling reporters in the Oval Office, “I think Democrats will actually vote for this.”

<p>Donald Trump said on August 25 that many Americans think he is a dictator after his order to deploy nationals guards in Washington. He said he does not like a dictator, and he is not a dictator.</p>

'I don’t like a dictator. I’m not a dictator': Trump says he’s not autocratic ruler, BUT

<p>American billionaire Elon Musk has sued Apple Inc. and ChatGPT maker OpenAI in a US federal court in Texas on Monday (August 25). Musk accused them of locking up markets to maintain their monopolies, preventing competition.</p><p>The billionaire stressed that they have illegally conspired to thwart competition for artificial intelligence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The lawsuit read that Apple and OpenAI have &nbsp;"locked up markets to maintain their monopolies and prevent innovators like X and xAI from competing."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/openai-launches-gpt-5-amid-intensifying-global-ai-competition-1754639022790"><strong>Also read: OpenAI launches GPT-5, amid intensifying global AI competition</strong></a></p><p>The lawsuit stated, "This is a tale of two monopolists joining forces to ensure their continued dominance in a world rapidly driven by the most powerful technology humanity has ever created: artificial intelligence."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It further stated that Apple and OpenAI conspired to suppress xAI's products, including on the Apple App Store.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"If not for its exclusive deal with OpenAI, Apple would have no reason to refrain from more prominently featuring the X app and the Grok app in its App Store," xAI said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Notably, Musk has been involved in a long-range feud with OpenAI's Sam Altman, which began with disagreements that led to their clashes after the two came up with OpenAI together.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-musk-s-dream-rocket-cursed-space-x-scrubs-megarocket-starship-s-10th-test-amid-string-of-explosions-and-failures-1756083270563"><strong>Also read: Is Musk's dream rocket cursed? Space X scrubs megarocket Starship's 10th test amid string of explosions and failures</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Lawyers for Musk's companies wrote in the lawsuit that Apple and OpenAI’s “exclusive arrangement has made ChatGPT the only generative AI chatbot integrated into the iPhone".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>They added that it has "locked up markets to maintain their monopolies and prevent innovators like X and xAI from competing”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The lawsuit alleged that this arrangement gives ChatGPT exclusive access to "billions of user prompts" from hundreds of millions of iPhone users.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-says-grok-4-is-still-smarter-than-openai-s-gpt-5-1754658042742"><strong>Also read: Elon Musk says Grok 4 is still smarter than OpenAI’s GPT-5</strong></a></p>

The lawsuit read that Apple and OpenAI have  “locked up markets to maintain their monopolies and prevent innovators like X and xAI from competing.”

American billionaire Elon Musk has sued Apple Inc. and ChatGPT maker OpenAI in a US federal court in Texas on Monday (August 25). Musk accused them of locking up markets to maintain their monopolies, preventing competition. The billionaire stressed that they have illegally conspired to thwart competition for artificial intelligence. The lawsuit read that Apple and OpenAI have "locked up markets to maintain their monopolies and prevent innovators like X and xAI from competing." Also read: OpenAI launches GPT-5, amid intensifying global AI competition The lawsuit stated, "This is a tale of two monopolists joining forces to ensure their continued dominance in a world rapidly driven by the most powerful technology humanity has ever created: artificial intelligence." It further stated that Apple and OpenAI conspired to suppress xAI's products, including on the Apple App Store. "If not for its exclusive deal with OpenAI, Apple would have no reason to refrain from more prominently featuring the X app and the Grok app in its App Store," xAI said. Notably, Musk has been involved in a long-range feud with OpenAI's Sam Altman, which began with disagreements that led to their clashes after the two came up with OpenAI together. Also read: Is Musk's dream rocket cursed? Space X scrubs megarocket Starship's 10th test amid string of explosions and failures Lawyers for Musk's companies wrote in the lawsuit that Apple and OpenAI’s “exclusive arrangement has made ChatGPT the only generative AI chatbot integrated into the iPhone". They added that it has "locked up markets to maintain their monopolies and prevent innovators like X and xAI from competing”. The lawsuit alleged that this arrangement gives ChatGPT exclusive access to "billions of user prompts" from hundreds of millions of iPhone users. Also read: Elon Musk says Grok 4 is still smarter than OpenAI’s GPT-5

<p>The lawsuit read that Apple and OpenAI have &nbsp;“locked up markets to maintain their monopolies and prevent innovators like X and xAI from competing.”</p>

Apple, OpenAI under fire? Musk files lawsuit in US court - Here's why

<p>US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday (August 25) to end what he called a “dangerous” practice called cashless bail. The order was two of the main ones he signed, with the other focusing on Washington, DC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The Order directs the Attorney General to determine whether the District of Columbia continues to maintain its cashless bail policy for crimes that pose a clear threat to public safety, including murder, rape, carjacking, assault, burglary, looting, and more," the White House said in its official statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“They kill people and they get out,” Trump said about cashless bail in the Oval Office when he announced the order. “We’re ending it, but we’re starting by ending it in DC, and that we have the right to do through federalization,” he added.</p><h2>What is cashless bail - know here</h2><p>Cashless bail is a system under which an individual can avoid jail by simply showing up to their work. This is considered a fairer system for low-income individuals.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Jeremy Cherson, the director of communications for the Bail Project, told The Guardian that Trump’s executive order would deepen inequities and waste taxpayer dollars.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The data is clear that bail reform has not led to increased crime,” he said, adding, “While the president is right that the current system is broken, he is wrong about the solution.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-paid-zero-in-9bn-intel-deal-despite-critics-fury-1756134323490"><strong>'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite&nbsp;critics’&nbsp;fury</strong></a></p><h2>‘Specialised units’ of National Guard</h2><p>Trump signed multiple executive orders on Monday (August 25), including the one under which the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will establish “specialised units” in the National Guard. The guards will be trained and equipped "specifically" to deal with public order issues.” This came after Hegseth issued a directive last week that authorized members of the National Guard to carry weapons. Those guards were deployed as part of Trump’s anti-crime agenda in Washington, DC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Monday, Trump suggested he’d ask Congress to codify the action, telling reporters in the Oval Office, “I think Democrats will actually vote for this.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Donald Trump signed an executive order on August 25 and banned the  dangerous practice called cashless bail. It is a practice under which an individual can avoid jail by simply showing up to their work. 

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday (August 25) to end what he called a “dangerous” practice called cashless bail. The order was two of the main ones he signed, with the other focusing on Washington, DC. "The Order directs the Attorney General to determine whether the District of Columbia continues to maintain its cashless bail policy for crimes that pose a clear threat to public safety, including murder, rape, carjacking, assault, burglary, looting, and more," the White House said in its official statement. “They kill people and they get out,” Trump said about cashless bail in the Oval Office when he announced the order. “We’re ending it, but we’re starting by ending it in DC, and that we have the right to do through federalization,” he added. What is cashless bail - know here Cashless bail is a system under which an individual can avoid jail by simply showing up to their work. This is considered a fairer system for low-income individuals. Jeremy Cherson, the director of communications for the Bail Project, told The Guardian that Trump’s executive order would deepen inequities and waste taxpayer dollars. “The data is clear that bail reform has not led to increased crime,” he said, adding, “While the president is right that the current system is broken, he is wrong about the solution.” Also read: 'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite critics’ fury ‘Specialised units’ of National Guard Trump signed multiple executive orders on Monday (August 25), including the one under which the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will establish “specialised units” in the National Guard. The guards will be trained and equipped "specifically" to deal with public order issues.” This came after Hegseth issued a directive last week that authorized members of the National Guard to carry weapons. Those guards were deployed as part of Trump’s anti-crime agenda in Washington, DC. On Monday, Trump suggested he’d ask Congress to codify the action, telling reporters in the Oval Office, “I think Democrats will actually vote for this.”

<p>Donald Trump signed an executive order on August 25 and banned the &nbsp;“dangerous” practice called cashless bail. It is a practice under which an individual can avoid jail by simply showing up to their work.&nbsp;</p>

‘They kill people, they get out’: Trump bans ‘dangerous’ cashless bail system. What is it?

<p>US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 25) signalled his readiness to reopen dialogue with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, saying he expects to meet him “someday.” Speaking during a press interaction, Trump praised his “very good” relationship with Kim while preparing for a summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the White House. The two leaders are expected to discuss ways to bring Pyongyang back to the negotiating table.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-paid-zero-in-9bn-intel-deal-despite-critics-fury-1756134323490"><strong>'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite&nbsp;critics’&nbsp;fury</strong></a></p><p>“In fact, someday, I will see him. I look forward to seeing him. He was very good with me … We got along great,” Trump said. He added that he was confident Kim would agree to meet him “at some point.”</p><h2><strong>Trump’s claim of preventing nuclear conflict</strong></h2><p>The president once again argued that his leadership had prevented war with North Korea. “You notice that since I came into office, you haven’t had a problem with him,” he told reporters. Trump went further, saying that if Hillary Clinton had won the 2016 election, the US would already be at nuclear war with Pyongyang. “We are not going to have a nuclear war. Once that happens, it’s over,” he said.</p><h2><strong>Trump’s personal diplomacy with North Korea</strong></h2><p>Trump also boasted about knowing Kim “better than anybody, almost, other than his sister,” referring to Kim Yo-jong, the North Korean leader’s influential sibling. Speculation continues that Trump may revive his personal diplomacy with Pyongyang. Between 2018 and 2019, he and Kim held three unprecedented meetings, including their first summit in Singapore. Trump also became the first US president to step into North Korea during a 2019 visit.</p><p>However, the talks ultimately failed to produce a breakthrough. Pyongyang continued nuclear testing, and no agreement on denuclearisation, a key American demand, was reached.</p>

President Trump expressed willingness to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un again, citing their strong past relationship. Ahead of talks with South Korea’s president, he emphasised hopes to restart negotiations with Pyongyang.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 25) signalled his readiness to reopen dialogue with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, saying he expects to meet him “someday.” Speaking during a press interaction, Trump praised his “very good” relationship with Kim while preparing for a summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the White House. The two leaders are expected to discuss ways to bring Pyongyang back to the negotiating table. Also read: 'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite critics’ fury “In fact, someday, I will see him. I look forward to seeing him. He was very good with me … We got along great,” Trump said. He added that he was confident Kim would agree to meet him “at some point.” Trump’s claim of preventing nuclear conflict The president once again argued that his leadership had prevented war with North Korea. “You notice that since I came into office, you haven’t had a problem with him,” he told reporters. Trump went further, saying that if Hillary Clinton had won the 2016 election, the US would already be at nuclear war with Pyongyang. “We are not going to have a nuclear war. Once that happens, it’s over,” he said. Trump’s personal diplomacy with North Korea Trump also boasted about knowing Kim “better than anybody, almost, other than his sister,” referring to Kim Yo-jong, the North Korean leader’s influential sibling. Speculation continues that Trump may revive his personal diplomacy with Pyongyang. Between 2018 and 2019, he and Kim held three unprecedented meetings, including their first summit in Singapore. Trump also became the first US president to step into North Korea during a 2019 visit. However, the talks ultimately failed to produce a breakthrough. Pyongyang continued nuclear testing, and no agreement on denuclearisation, a key American demand, was reached.

<p>President Trump expressed willingness to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un again, citing their strong past relationship. Ahead of talks with South Korea’s president, he emphasised hopes to restart negotiations with Pyongyang.</p>

'Not going to have nuclear war': Trump touts 'very good' relationship with Kim Jong-un, says he will meet him 'someday'

<p>US President Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders on Monday (August 25), including the one under which the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will establish “specialised units” in the National Guard. The guards will be trained and equipped "specifically" to deal with public order issues.” This came after Hegseth issued a directive last week that authorized members of the National Guard to carry weapons. Those guards were deployed as part of Trump’s anti-crime agenda in Washington, DC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Monday, Trump suggested he’d ask Congress to codify the action, telling reporters in the Oval Office, “I think Democrats will actually vote for this.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-paid-zero-in-9bn-intel-deal-despite-critics-fury-1756134323490"><strong>'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite&nbsp;critics’&nbsp;fury</strong></a></p><h2>'They’ll give us whatever money'</h2><p>In his statements while signing several other orders, the American president, without providing any evidence, stated that Congress has promised him unlimited funding to revitalize Washington, DC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Congress has said that they’ll give us whatever money is needed to fix up the capital,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office</p><p><br>“And we’re going to also beautify Washington. We’re going to rip down the broken medians, fix them, we’re going to put asphalt on the roads. We’re not ripping them apart,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intel-s-fall-firm-that-once-called-its-engineers-rock-stars-is-now-on-us-govt-crutches-amid-china-chip-wars-how-did-it-get-here-intel-trump-news-1756121699374"><strong>Intel's fall: Firm that once called its engineers 'rock stars' is now on US govt crutches amid China chip wars. How did it get here?</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Congressional leadership has not signaled that DC will have unlimited funds. And House Republicans have yet to restore $1 billion in funding for the District of Columbia, following a budgetary fight in Congress earlier this year, CNN reported.&nbsp;</p><h2>‘We can go anywhere’</h2><p>During a press briefing, Trump was asked &nbsp;whether the Pentagon was preparing for a military deployment to Chicago, Trump said they’re ready to go anywhere on short notice to crack down on crime.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We can go anywhere on less than 24 hours notice," Trump said.</p>

Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders on August 25, including one to establish specialised units of the National Guard. This came after Pete Hegseth allowed the guards to carry weapons. 

US President Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders on Monday (August 25), including the one under which the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will establish “specialised units” in the National Guard. The guards will be trained and equipped "specifically" to deal with public order issues.” This came after Hegseth issued a directive last week that authorized members of the National Guard to carry weapons. Those guards were deployed as part of Trump’s anti-crime agenda in Washington, DC. On Monday, Trump suggested he’d ask Congress to codify the action, telling reporters in the Oval Office, “I think Democrats will actually vote for this.” Also read: 'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite critics’ fury 'They’ll give us whatever money' In his statements while signing several other orders, the American president, without providing any evidence, stated that Congress has promised him unlimited funding to revitalize Washington, DC. “Congress has said that they’ll give us whatever money is needed to fix up the capital,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office “And we’re going to also beautify Washington. We’re going to rip down the broken medians, fix them, we’re going to put asphalt on the roads. We’re not ripping them apart,” he added. Also read: Intel's fall: Firm that once called its engineers 'rock stars' is now on US govt crutches amid China chip wars. How did it get here? Congressional leadership has not signaled that DC will have unlimited funds. And House Republicans have yet to restore $1 billion in funding for the District of Columbia, following a budgetary fight in Congress earlier this year, CNN reported. ‘We can go anywhere’ During a press briefing, Trump was asked whether the Pentagon was preparing for a military deployment to Chicago, Trump said they’re ready to go anywhere on short notice to crack down on crime. "We can go anywhere on less than 24 hours notice," Trump said.

<p>Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders on August 25, including one to establish specialised units of the National Guard. This came after Pete Hegseth allowed the guards to carry weapons.</p>

Trump signs order for ‘specialised units’ of National Guard: Here’s what’s inside

<p>US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 25) defended his administration’s multi-billion-dollar agreement with Intel, insisting he had “paid zero for Intel,” even though the deal saw the US government invest nearly $9 billion into the technology giant. “I paid zero for Intel, it is worth approximately $11 billion,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “All goes to the USA. Why are ‘stupid’ people unhappy with that? I will make deals like that for our country all day long,” he added.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-ukraine-remains-independent-russian-cyber-partisans-hackers-disrupt-russian-tv-broadcast-with-ukraine-war-footage-on-independence-day-1756124366178"><strong>'Ukraine remains independent': Russian 'cyber partisans' hackers disrupt Russian TV broadcast with Ukraine war footage on Independence Day</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What does the deal involve?</strong></h2><p>The agreement was finalised last week, with the government taking $8.9 billion worth of Intel shares. Combined with a previous $2.2 billion investment under the CHIPS Act three years ago, the US now holds an $11.1 billion stake in the company. The equity stake amounts to 433.3 million Intel shares at $20.47 per share, giving the government a 9.9% holding.</p><h2><strong>Intel’s reaction to the government stake</strong></h2><p>Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan praised the deal, saying, “President Trump’s focus on U.S. chip manufacturing is driving historic investments in a vital industry that is integral to the country’s economic and national security. We are grateful for the confidence the President and the Administration have placed in Intel, and we look forward to working to advance US technology and manufacturing leadership.”</p><h2><strong>Why are critics opposed?</strong></h2><p>Not everyone has welcomed the deal. Scott Linicome of the Cato Institute branded it “antithetical to American greatness” and a “terrible decision,” warning it could create “real harms for U.S. companies.” Critics argue the arrangement risks pushing corporate decisions away from market logic and deeper into politics.</p><p>Trump brushed off the criticism, saying there were no downsides, “I will also help those companies that make such lucrative deals with the United States. I love seeing their stock price go up, making the USA richer and richer. More jobs for America! Who would not want to make deals like that?”</p><h2><strong>Market reaction and other deals</strong></h2><p>Intel’s stock rose by 3% early on Monday before dipping later in the day after Trump publicly celebrated the share price boost. This is not the first time the administration has intervened in major industries. Earlier this month, Washington struck deals with Nvidia and AMD to take a 15% cut of certain chip sales to China, while also receiving a “golden share” in the new company formed by the merger of US Steel and Nippon Steel, a move that gives the government power to appoint a board member and weigh in on strategic decisions.</p>

President Trump defended an $8.9 billion Intel deal, claiming it cost “zero” and benefits the U.S. The government now owns 9.9% of Intel, totaling an $11.1 billion stake.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 25) defended his administration’s multi-billion-dollar agreement with Intel, insisting he had “paid zero for Intel,” even though the deal saw the US government invest nearly $9 billion into the technology giant. “I paid zero for Intel, it is worth approximately $11 billion,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “All goes to the USA. Why are ‘stupid’ people unhappy with that? I will make deals like that for our country all day long,” he added. Also read: 'Ukraine remains independent': Russian 'cyber partisans' hackers disrupt Russian TV broadcast with Ukraine war footage on Independence Day What does the deal involve? The agreement was finalised last week, with the government taking $8.9 billion worth of Intel shares. Combined with a previous $2.2 billion investment under the CHIPS Act three years ago, the US now holds an $11.1 billion stake in the company. The equity stake amounts to 433.3 million Intel shares at $20.47 per share, giving the government a 9.9% holding. Intel’s reaction to the government stake Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan praised the deal, saying, “President Trump’s focus on U.S. chip manufacturing is driving historic investments in a vital industry that is integral to the country’s economic and national security. We are grateful for the confidence the President and the Administration have placed in Intel, and we look forward to working to advance US technology and manufacturing leadership.” Why are critics opposed? Not everyone has welcomed the deal. Scott Linicome of the Cato Institute branded it “antithetical to American greatness” and a “terrible decision,” warning it could create “real harms for U.S. companies.” Critics argue the arrangement risks pushing corporate decisions away from market logic and deeper into politics. Trump brushed off the criticism, saying there were no downsides, “I will also help those companies that make such lucrative deals with the United States. I love seeing their stock price go up, making the USA richer and richer. More jobs for America! Who would not want to make deals like that?” Market reaction and other deals Intel’s stock rose by 3% early on Monday before dipping later in the day after Trump publicly celebrated the share price boost. This is not the first time the administration has intervened in major industries. Earlier this month, Washington struck deals with Nvidia and AMD to take a 15% cut of certain chip sales to China, while also receiving a “golden share” in the new company formed by the merger of US Steel and Nippon Steel, a move that gives the government power to appoint a board member and weigh in on strategic decisions.

<p>President Trump defended an $8.9 billion Intel deal, claiming it cost “zero” and benefits the U.S. The government now owns 9.9% of Intel, totalling an $11.1 billion stake.</p>

'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despite critics’ fury

<p>In a widely recognised ad campaign, Intel called its engineers “rock stars.” Its main branding for years was “Intel Inside,” and for a long time, that was true—nearly every personal computer came equipped with an Intel processor. But today, the company is effectively receiving a virtual bailout from the US government. How did this former semiconductor titan fall from grace? It’s a story of strategic mistakes, slow adaptation to technological shifts, and a global chip war increasingly dominated by China. Here’s how Intel went from captain to cautionary tale.</p><h2>What’s the current stock status of Intel? A decline in market cap</h2><p>As of August, Intel’s stock had dropped sharply from its 52-week high of around $51.28 to approximately $25—a fall of nearly 52 per cent. At the end of 2023, the company had a market capitalisation of roughly $210.5 billion. By mid-2025, that had fallen to about $90.6 billion, marking a decline of nearly 57 per cent.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nvidia-set-to-replace-intel-in-the-dow-jones-index-772924"><strong>Also read: Nvidia set to replace Intel in the Dow Jones Index</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Intel’s early years: The founding story</h2><p>Intel was founded on 18 July 1968 by pioneering engineers Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, and was joined by venture capitalist Arthur Rock, who helped secure the company’s initial funding. Originally incorporated as NM Electronics, the name was later changed to Intel—short for “Integrated Electronics.” Noyce is credited as one of the inventors of the integrated circuit. Moore became widely known for Moore’s Law, a prediction that the number of transistors on a chip would double approximately every two years, improving performance while reducing cost. Together, the trio laid the foundation for one of the most influential technology companies in the world.</p><h2>Intel’s peak: The “rock star” era of the 2000s</h2><p>During the rise of the internet in the 2000s, Intel dominated the global tech landscape by supplying the hardware that powered most personal computers and laptops, including those made by Microsoft and Apple. In 2009, a marketing campaign presented Intel engineers—such as Ajay Bhatt, co-inventor of USB—as “rock stars,” elevating their image to that of cultural icons. The “Intel Inside” campaign, launched in the 1990s, had already made the company a household name and synonymous with high-performance computing.</p><h2>Intel missed two buses: Mobile chips and artificial intelligence</h2><p>Intel’s strong focus on personal computers ultimately contributed to its decline, as global computing shifted rapidly towards smartphones. Intel was not prepared for the mobile revolution, which was led by ARM-based processors developed by companies like Qualcomm. Intel’s processors consumed too much power and were unsuitable for mobile devices.</p><p>Under CEOs such as Paul Otellini, Brian Krzanich, and Bob Swan, Intel has been accused of prioritising short-term profits over innovation. For example, Krzanich delayed the adoption of extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV), a move that allowed competitors to overtake Intel in advanced chip manufacturing. During Swan’s tenure, the company reportedly spent billions on stock buybacks instead of investing heavily in research and development.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-administration-in-talks-to-take-stake-in-intel-amid-ohio-factory-delays-1755242765488"><strong>Trump administration in talks to take stake in Intel amid Ohio factory delays</strong></a></p><h2>Rise of AI chip makers: New Kids on the Block</h2><p>The artificial intelligence boom required high-performance processors, and formerly smaller players like Nvidia seized the opportunity with their graphics processing units (GPUs). In 2020, one of Intel’s key clients, Apple, began transitioning to its own M1 chips—designed in-house and manufactured by TSMC—dealing a significant blow to Intel’s market dominance.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/intel-under-fire-over-ceo-s-china-ties-1754631887353/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/intel-under-fire-over-ceo-s-china-ties-1754631887353/embed</a></p><h2>How Intel lost ground amid global chip wars</h2><p>The chip wars of the 2020s were triggered by multiple factors, including geopolitical tensions between the US and China, growing demand for AI processing chips, and the global rollout of 5G technology. These factors created a perfect storm that caught Intel off guard. Its once-celebrated integrated design-and-manufacture model became a liability, while competitors like AMD gained market share by leveraging TSMC’s superior fabrication technologies.</p><p>Intel’s attempts to expand its foundry business faltered. Projects such as the development of glass substrates were scaled back, and the automotive chip division was shut down.&nbsp;</p><p>In 2024, CEO Pat Gelsinger was removed after Intel’s stock fell by 60 per cent. He was replaced by Lip-Bu Tan, and the company laid off up to 20 per cent of its workforce. Even prominent engineers such as Jim Keller exited.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-lip-bu-tan-why-did-donald-trump-demand-his-resignation-alleged-china-links-explained-1754577800317"><strong>Also read: Who is Lip-Bu Tan? Why did Donald Trump demand&nbsp;his resignation? China links explained</strong></a></p><h2>US government ‘bailout’ of Intel: A lender of last resort comes in</h2><p>Recognising Intel’s importance to national security and technological independence, the US government made a historic intervention under the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act. The company reportedly received up to 10.9 billion dollars—7.9 billion for commercial fabrication facilities in states like Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oregon, and 3 billion for producing military-grade chips under the Secure Enclave programme.</p><p>In August 2025, the Trump administration converted roughly 8.9 billion dollars of these grants into a 10 per cent equity stake in Intel, making the US government its largest shareholder.&nbsp;</p><p>The deal included non-voting shares and a 5 per cent warrant, which would allow the government to expand its stake if Intel’s foundry unit loses majority control.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, SoftBank invested 2 billion dollars in support of Intel’s turnaround efforts.</p><p>Critics have compared the government's move to the 2008 bailout of the US auto industry, warning that financial aid alone may not resolve Intel’s deeper challenges, such as its technological lag behind TSMC and Nvidia.</p><h2>Can Intel catch up in the near future?</h2><p>While a turnaround is not impossible, recent failures suggest caution. Intel has yet to attract major foundry clients like Apple or Nvidia. Its much-publicised Intel 18A process, set to launch in 2025, is already facing scepticism over whether it can match the performance and efficiency of competitors’ offerings.</p><p>A breakthrough innovation could still restore Intel’s standing, but as of now, its “rock star” era is clearly over. The company faces an uncertain future as it struggles to remain competitive in a global market increasingly dominated by faster-moving rivals—including those from China.<br>&nbsp;</p>

A series of strategic mistakes and the rise of China in chip-making contributed to the collapse of the legendary semiconductor firm which at one point had its hardware inside practically every computer. What went wrong? Here is what you should know

In a widely recognised ad campaign, Intel called its engineers “rock stars.” Its main branding for years was “Intel Inside,” and for a long time, that was true—nearly every personal computer came equipped with an Intel processor. But today, the company is effectively receiving a virtual bailout from the US government. How did this former semiconductor titan fall from grace? It’s a story of strategic mistakes, slow adaptation to technological shifts, and a global chip war increasingly dominated by China. Here’s how Intel went from captain to cautionary tale. What’s the current stock status of Intel? A decline in market cap As of August, Intel’s stock had dropped sharply from its 52-week high of around $51.28 to approximately $25—a fall of nearly 52 per cent. At the end of 2023, the company had a market capitalisation of roughly $210.5 billion. By mid-2025, that had fallen to about $90.6 billion, marking a decline of nearly 57 per cent. Also read: Nvidia set to replace Intel in the Dow Jones Index Intel’s early years: The founding story Intel was founded on 18 July 1968 by pioneering engineers Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, and was joined by venture capitalist Arthur Rock, who helped secure the company’s initial funding. Originally incorporated as NM Electronics, the name was later changed to Intel—short for “Integrated Electronics.” Noyce is credited as one of the inventors of the integrated circuit. Moore became widely known for Moore’s Law, a prediction that the number of transistors on a chip would double approximately every two years, improving performance while reducing cost. Together, the trio laid the foundation for one of the most influential technology companies in the world. Intel’s peak: The “rock star” era of the 2000s During the rise of the internet in the 2000s, Intel dominated the global tech landscape by supplying the hardware that powered most personal computers and laptops, including those made by Microsoft and Apple. In 2009, a marketing campaign presented Intel engineers—such as Ajay Bhatt, co-inventor of USB—as “rock stars,” elevating their image to that of cultural icons. The “Intel Inside” campaign, launched in the 1990s, had already made the company a household name and synonymous with high-performance computing. Intel missed two buses: Mobile chips and artificial intelligence Intel’s strong focus on personal computers ultimately contributed to its decline, as global computing shifted rapidly towards smartphones. Intel was not prepared for the mobile revolution, which was led by ARM-based processors developed by companies like Qualcomm. Intel’s processors consumed too much power and were unsuitable for mobile devices. Under CEOs such as Paul Otellini, Brian Krzanich, and Bob Swan, Intel has been accused of prioritising short-term profits over innovation. For example, Krzanich delayed the adoption of extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV), a move that allowed competitors to overtake Intel in advanced chip manufacturing. During Swan’s tenure, the company reportedly spent billions on stock buybacks instead of investing heavily in research and development. Also read: Trump administration in talks to take stake in Intel amid Ohio factory delays Rise of AI chip makers: New Kids on the Block The artificial intelligence boom required high-performance processors, and formerly smaller players like Nvidia seized the opportunity with their graphics processing units (GPUs). In 2020, one of Intel’s key clients, Apple, began transitioning to its own M1 chips—designed in-house and manufactured by TSMC—dealing a significant blow to Intel’s market dominance. https://www.wionews.com/videos/intel-under-fire-over-ceo-s-china-ties-1754631887353/embed How Intel lost ground amid global chip wars The chip wars of the 2020s were triggered by multiple factors, including geopolitical tensions between the US and China, growing demand for AI processing chips, and the global rollout of 5G technology. These factors created a perfect storm that caught Intel off guard. Its once-celebrated integrated design-and-manufacture model became a liability, while competitors like AMD gained market share by leveraging TSMC’s superior fabrication technologies. Intel’s attempts to expand its foundry business faltered. Projects such as the development of glass substrates were scaled back, and the automotive chip division was shut down. In 2024, CEO Pat Gelsinger was removed after Intel’s stock fell by 60 per cent. He was replaced by Lip-Bu Tan, and the company laid off up to 20 per cent of its workforce. Even prominent engineers such as Jim Keller exited. Also read: Who is Lip-Bu Tan? Why did Donald Trump demand his resignation? China links explained US government ‘bailout’ of Intel: A lender of last resort comes in Recognising Intel’s importance to national security and technological independence, the US government made a historic intervention under the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act. The company reportedly received up to 10.9 billion dollars—7.9 billion for commercial fabrication facilities in states like Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oregon, and 3 billion for producing military-grade chips under the Secure Enclave programme. In August 2025, the Trump administration converted roughly 8.9 billion dollars of these grants into a 10 per cent equity stake in Intel, making the US government its largest shareholder. The deal included non-voting shares and a 5 per cent warrant, which would allow the government to expand its stake if Intel’s foundry unit loses majority control. Additionally, SoftBank invested 2 billion dollars in support of Intel’s turnaround efforts. Critics have compared the government's move to the 2008 bailout of the US auto industry, warning that financial aid alone may not resolve Intel’s deeper challenges, such as its technological lag behind TSMC and Nvidia. Can Intel catch up in the near future? While a turnaround is not impossible, recent failures suggest caution. Intel has yet to attract major foundry clients like Apple or Nvidia. Its much-publicised Intel 18A process, set to launch in 2025, is already facing scepticism over whether it can match the performance and efficiency of competitors’ offerings. A breakthrough innovation could still restore Intel’s standing, but as of now, its “rock star” era is clearly over. The company faces an uncertain future as it struggles to remain competitive in a global market increasingly dominated by faster-moving rivals—including those from China.

<p>A series of strategic mistakes and the rise of China in chip-making contributed to the collapse of the legendary semiconductor firm, which at one point had its hardware inside practically every computer. What went wrong? Here is what you should know</p>

Intel's fall: Firm that once called its engineers 'rock stars' is now on US govt crutches amid China chip wars. How did it get here?

Explore the biggest nuclear tests in history, including Tsar Bomba and Castle Bravo, and their global impact on geopolitics, environment, and nuclear arms control.

Biggest nuclear tests in history: Tsar Bomba, Castle Bravo and their global impact

<p>The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has made a significant bust at Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar, foiling a gold smuggling attempt involving two Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) employees, news outlet ARY News reported. Nasir Khan and Shahidullah, both posted at the airport, were taken into custody during a joint operation with the Airport Security Force (ASF). A substantial 7,740 grams of gold, worth millions, was recovered from the suspects' luggage, which was intended for illegal export.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-congress-mla-arrested-in-illegal-betting-case-ed-seizes-12-crore-cash-6-crore-in-gold-1756025927571/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-congress-mla-arrested-in-illegal-betting-case-ed-seizes-12-crore-cash-6-crore-in-gold-1756025927571/embed</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Further, the FIA confirmed that the suspects have been sent on a two-day physical remand for further interrogation. Investigations may lead to further arrests of suspects involved in the gold smuggling bid and similar cases. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This operation highlights the FIA's strengthened efforts to curb international smuggling networks operating through Pakistan's airports. In a recent operation at the Pakistan-Iran border, the FIA Balochistan Zone successfully foiled an illegal border crossing attempt and arrested foreign nationals. The anti-Human Trafficking Circle Quetta executed the operation and managed to stop the illegal border crossing attempt, arresting defamed agent Nadir and his assistant Haider, who were running human trafficking networks, according to FIA spokespersons.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-oil-reserves-in-pakistan-you-have-been-gravely-misled-by-munir-baloch-leader-writes-to-trump-1754151015327"><strong>‘No oil reserves in Pakistan, you have been gravely misled by Munir’: Baloch leader writes to Trump</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During the raid, individuals from Bangladesh, who had entered Pakistan unlawfully, were attempting to enter Iran via Pakistan's border, and were also taken into custody.</p><p>FIA has been actively executing the operations against human trafficking networks and foiling the attempts of involved groups. These operations are also part of the same efforts to fight against human smuggling and any smuggling active in Pakistan, operating through different parts of the country.&nbsp;</p>

Two Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) employees arrested in foiling a gold smuggling attempt.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has made a significant bust at Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar, foiling a gold smuggling attempt involving two Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) employees, news outlet ARY News reported. Nasir Khan and Shahidullah, both posted at the airport, were taken into custody during a joint operation with the Airport Security Force (ASF). A substantial 7,740 grams of gold, worth millions, was recovered from the suspects' luggage, which was intended for illegal export. https://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-congress-mla-arrested-in-illegal-betting-case-ed-seizes-12-crore-cash-6-crore-in-gold-1756025927571/embed Further, the FIA confirmed that the suspects have been sent on a two-day physical remand for further interrogation. Investigations may lead to further arrests of suspects involved in the gold smuggling bid and similar cases. This operation highlights the FIA's strengthened efforts to curb international smuggling networks operating through Pakistan's airports. In a recent operation at the Pakistan-Iran border, the FIA Balochistan Zone successfully foiled an illegal border crossing attempt and arrested foreign nationals. The anti-Human Trafficking Circle Quetta executed the operation and managed to stop the illegal border crossing attempt, arresting defamed agent Nadir and his assistant Haider, who were running human trafficking networks, according to FIA spokespersons. Also read: ‘No oil reserves in Pakistan, you have been gravely misled by Munir’: Baloch leader writes to Trump During the raid, individuals from Bangladesh, who had entered Pakistan unlawfully, were attempting to enter Iran via Pakistan's border, and were also taken into custody. FIA has been actively executing the operations against human trafficking networks and foiling the attempts of involved groups. These operations are also part of the same efforts to fight against human smuggling and any smuggling active in Pakistan, operating through different parts of the country.

<p>Two Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) employees arrested in foiling a gold smuggling attempt.</p>

Pakistan state-owned airline PIA staff involved in gold smuggling attempt, arrested

<p>Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man who became a flashpoint of US President Donald Trump’s crackdown against immigration, has been detained again by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and faces another deportation threat. The Salvadoran man was wrongly deported by the US authorities earlier this year, drawing outrage across the nation. Garcia was detained at his check-in appointment in Baltimore, days after he was freed from federal custody in Tennessee.</p><p>Abrego’s lawyers have asked the courts to dismiss his case on the grounds that the administration’s move is a vindictive attempt to punish him for challenging his initial deportation to El Salvador. However, his case saw a new turn when the immigration officials on Friday revealed that he would be deported to Uganda, a country he has no known connection to, after he declined an offer to be deported to Costa Rica in exchange for pleading guilty to human smuggling charges.</p><p>His case has sparked outrage among legal experts and human rights advocates, who say his deportation is being rushed without a court hearing, violating US laws.</p><h2>Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia?</h2><p>Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 30-year-old resident of the eastern state of Maryland, is one of over 200 migrants who were deported to a prison in El Salvador earlier this year, in March, as part of Trump’s crackdown against illegal migrants. Abrego, who grew up in El Salvador, fled the country at the age of 16 after a local gang extorted and terrorised his family, according to court records. He travelled to Maryland, where his brother lives as a US citizen. However, he was not authorised to stay.</p><p>He later started working in construction and met Jennifer Vasquez Sura, whom he married later. The couple has two children.</p><h2><strong>Why was he deported to El Salvador?</strong></h2><p>In March 2019, Abrego approached a Home Depot, seeking work as a labourer, but was detained by the police. According to the records, a criminal informant told police that he was a member of MS-13, an international criminal gang. While Abrego was not charged, he was handed over to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.</p><p>Abrego and his legal team have denied any connection with the gang. In addition, he does not have any criminal record in either the US or El Salvador. Although his asylum was denied by a US immigration judge, he was granted protection from being deported to El Salvador over fears of gang prosecution. He was released and placed under federal supervision after receiving a work permit, and was supposed to check in every year with ICE.</p><p>In March this year, the Trump administration deported Abrego to a prison in El Salvador after designating MS-13 as a foreign terrorist organisation. At the prison, Abrego claimed that he was beaten and psychologically tortured, allegations which were denied by the country’s president, Nayib Bukele.</p><h2><strong>Will he be deported to Uganda?</strong></h2><p>Following a Supreme Court order demanding that the Trump administration “facilitate” his return, Abrego was returned in June. Upon his return, he was arrested and charged with smuggling migrants, following which he remained in a Tennessee jail.</p><p>After his release on Friday (Aug 22), the government told Abrego that he may be deported to Uganda. According to his attorneys, he had until Monday to accept a plea offer involving pleading guilty to human smuggling charges in exchange for being deported to Costa Rica, where he would be treated as a refugee. He reportedly declined the offer.</p><p>The Independent reported that unless Abrego changes his plea in the Tennessee federal case, it is likely that he could be deported to Uganda as soon as Wednesday.</p><p>US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said on Monday (Aug 25) that ICE law enforcement is processing his deportation. “President Trump is not going to allow this illegal alien, who is an MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, serial domestic abuser, and child predator, to terrorise American citizens any longer,” she said.</p><p><strong>Watch | Kilmar Abrego Garcia freed from jail: What’s next after his shocking release?</strong></p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/kilmar-abrego-garcia-freed-from-jail-what-s-next-after-his-shocking-release-1755948522820/embed</p>

Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement once again, days after he was released from federal custody. After being deported to the mega-prison in El Salvador, he now faces threats of being deported to Uganda.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man who became a flashpoint of US President Donald Trump’s crackdown against immigration, has been detained again by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and faces another deportation threat. The Salvadoran man was wrongly deported by the US authorities earlier this year, drawing outrage across the nation. Garcia was detained at his check-in appointment in Baltimore, days after he was freed from federal custody in Tennessee. Abrego’s lawyers have asked the courts to dismiss his case on the grounds that the administration’s move is a vindictive attempt to punish him for challenging his initial deportation to El Salvador. However, his case saw a new turn when the immigration officials on Friday revealed that he would be deported to Uganda, a country he has no known connection to, after he declined an offer to be deported to Costa Rica in exchange for pleading guilty to human smuggling charges. His case has sparked outrage among legal experts and human rights advocates, who say his deportation is being rushed without a court hearing, violating US laws. Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia? Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 30-year-old resident of the eastern state of Maryland, is one of over 200 migrants who were deported to a prison in El Salvador earlier this year, in March, as part of Trump’s crackdown against illegal migrants. Abrego, who grew up in El Salvador, fled the country at the age of 16 after a local gang extorted and terrorised his family, according to court records. He travelled to Maryland, where his brother lives as a US citizen. However, he was not authorised to stay. He later started working in construction and met Jennifer Vasquez Sura, whom he married later. The couple has two children. Why was he deported to El Salvador? In March 2019, Abrego approached a Home Depot, seeking work as a labourer, but was detained by the police. According to the records, a criminal informant told police that he was a member of MS-13, an international criminal gang. While Abrego was not charged, he was handed over to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Abrego and his legal team have denied any connection with the gang. In addition, he does not have any criminal record in either the US or El Salvador. Although his asylum was denied by a US immigration judge, he was granted protection from being deported to El Salvador over fears of gang prosecution. He was released and placed under federal supervision after receiving a work permit, and was supposed to check in every year with ICE. In March this year, the Trump administration deported Abrego to a prison in El Salvador after designating MS-13 as a foreign terrorist organisation. At the prison, Abrego claimed that he was beaten and psychologically tortured, allegations which were denied by the country’s president, Nayib Bukele. Will he be deported to Uganda? Following a Supreme Court order demanding that the Trump administration “facilitate” his return, Abrego was returned in June. Upon his return, he was arrested and charged with smuggling migrants, following which he remained in a Tennessee jail. After his release on Friday (Aug 22), the government told Abrego that he may be deported to Uganda. According to his attorneys, he had until Monday to accept a plea offer involving pleading guilty to human smuggling charges in exchange for being deported to Costa Rica, where he would be treated as a refugee. He reportedly declined the offer. The Independent reported that unless Abrego changes his plea in the Tennessee federal case, it is likely that he could be deported to Uganda as soon as Wednesday. US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said on Monday (Aug 25) that ICE law enforcement is processing his deportation. “President Trump is not going to allow this illegal alien, who is an MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, serial domestic abuser, and child predator, to terrorise American citizens any longer,” she said. Watch | Kilmar Abrego Garcia freed from jail: What’s next after his shocking release? https://www.wionews.com/videos/kilmar-abrego-garcia-freed-from-jail-what-s-next-after-his-shocking-release-1755948522820/embed

<p>Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement once again, days after he was released from federal custody. After being deported to the mega-prison in El Salvador, he now faces threats of being deported to Uganda.</p>

Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia? Man at the centre of Trump’s immigration crackdown faces deportation to Uganda

<p>Russia is looking to hire more Indian workers as it is currently dealing with a labour shortage, India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar told Russian news agency TASS on Saturday. He stressed the need for manpower in Moscow and noted that India has skilled manpower. Kumar said that the Russian machinery and electronics industries are hiring Indians.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"At a broader level, there is a manpower requirement in Russia, and India has skilled manpower. So at present, within the Russian regulations, framework of Russian regulations, laws and quotas, the companies are hiring Indians," Kumar said. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Most of the people who have come are in the construction and textile sector, but the number of people interested in hiring Indians in the machinery and electronics segments is growing," the Indian envoy said. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"When people come and leave, they need consular services to extend passports, childbirth, say for example, and loss of passport, and those kinds, basically consular services," he added. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Moreover, the Indian embassy and consulates are starting to deal with the hike in incoming workers by opening a new Consulate General in Yekaterinburg.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Notably, the number of Indian workers has surged in Russia in recent years, with 5,480 getting work permits in 2021 to 36,208 in 2024, according to think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF).</p><h2>India hits back at Trump tariffs</h2><p>India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar also hit back at Trump tariffs, saying that India will continue buying oil from wherever it gets the "best deal" and "take measures" to protect its national interest. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Calling it "unfair, unreasonable and unjustified", Kumar said that India's energy policy aims to secure reliable supplies for its citizens and that its cooperation with Russia and other countries has contributed to global oil market stability.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This comes after US President Donald Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, which he later doubled, making it a total of 50 per cent, citing several reasons, including India buying Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"First of all, we have clearly stated that our objective is energy security of 1.4 billion people of India and India's cooperation with Russia, as of several other countries, has helped to bring about stability in the global oil market. So the US decision is unfair, unreasonable and unjustified," he told TASS.</p>

The envoy said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing.

Russia is looking to hire more Indian workers as it is currently dealing with a labour shortage, India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar told Russian news agency TASS on Saturday. He stressed the need for manpower in Moscow and noted that India has skilled manpower. Kumar said that the Russian machinery and electronics industries are hiring Indians. "At a broader level, there is a manpower requirement in Russia, and India has skilled manpower. So at present, within the Russian regulations, framework of Russian regulations, laws and quotas, the companies are hiring Indians," Kumar said. He said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing. "Most of the people who have come are in the construction and textile sector, but the number of people interested in hiring Indians in the machinery and electronics segments is growing," the Indian envoy said. "When people come and leave, they need consular services to extend passports, childbirth, say for example, and loss of passport, and those kinds, basically consular services," he added. Moreover, the Indian embassy and consulates are starting to deal with the hike in incoming workers by opening a new Consulate General in Yekaterinburg. Notably, the number of Indian workers has surged in Russia in recent years, with 5,480 getting work permits in 2021 to 36,208 in 2024, according to think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF). India hits back at Trump tariffs India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar also hit back at Trump tariffs, saying that India will continue buying oil from wherever it gets the "best deal" and "take measures" to protect its national interest. Calling it "unfair, unreasonable and unjustified", Kumar said that India's energy policy aims to secure reliable supplies for its citizens and that its cooperation with Russia and other countries has contributed to global oil market stability. This comes after US President Donald Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, which he later doubled, making it a total of 50 per cent, citing several reasons, including India buying Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine. "First of all, we have clearly stated that our objective is energy security of 1.4 billion people of India and India's cooperation with Russia, as of several other countries, has helped to bring about stability in the global oil market. So the US decision is unfair, unreasonable and unjustified," he told TASS.

<p>The envoy said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing.</p>

Indian manpower needed in Russia? Moscow seeks to hire Indians amid need of skilled workers

<p>The Netherlands has been left reeling after the killing of a 17-year-old girl, an incident that has sparked grief, anger, and nationwide debate on safety and immigration. The teenager, identified as Lisa, was cycling home near Amsterdam when she was fatally attacked. According to reports, she managed to call emergency services during the assault, but help arrived too late. A 22-year-old asylum seeker, who was already under investigation for other crimes, has been arrested in connection with the killing.</p><h2>Grief Turns Into a Movement</h2><p>The tragedy has ignited a wave of solidarity and public outcry. Dutch actress and writer Nienke’s Gravemade penned a poem in Lisa’s memory, drawing on the haunting image of her red handbag still hanging from her bicycle. The poem has been widely shared online, with the phrase #rechtopdenacht (“right to the night”) emerging as a powerful rallying cry for women’s safety in public spaces. Vigils and marches have taken place in several cities, with citizens calling not only for justice for Lisa but also for broader reforms to ensure safer streets for women and young people.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/maria-sharapova-steps-into-tennis-immortality-inducted-into-hall-of-fame-with-forever-friend-serena-williams-by-her-side-1756116504962"><strong>Maria Sharapova steps into tennis immortality; inducted into Hall of Fame with 'forever friend' Serena Williams by her side</strong></a></p><h2>Football Community Pays Tribute</h2><p>The nation’s grief was visible on football’s biggest stage when Dutch clubs came together to honour Lisa. At the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, Ajax supporters observed a solemn minute of silence. A large banner unfolded in the stands read: “Dear Lisa, brave warrior.” It was a deeply emotional moment, illustrating how sport can serve as a platform for shared mourning and solidarity. Other teams across the country followed suit with gestures of remembrance, underlining that Lisa’s story has touched every corner of Dutch society.</p><h2>Watch the video here by Ajax FC</h2>

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<p>Beyond the mourning, the case has also opened a heated political debate. Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Freedom Party (PVV), has renewed calls to halt asylum immigration altogether, using the incident to highlight his party’s stance on migration and security. With elections looming later this year, the issue has quickly become part of the national political conversation.</p>

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<p>For many, Lisa’s death is more than an isolated tragedy. It has come to symbolise the need for urgent action on women’s safety, the responsibilities of law enforcement, and the handling of asylum cases. The outpouring of grief, the unifying role of football, and the rise of a new social movement suggest that this moment may shape Dutch public life for months to come. As the banners at the stadium said, Lisa will be remembered not only as a victim but as a spark that brought a country together in mourning—and in a renewed demand for change.</p>

Netherlands rape-murder of 17-year-old: Dutch football mourns as citizens unite against the crime

The Netherlands has been left reeling after the killing of a 17-year-old girl, an incident that has sparked grief, anger, and nationwide debate on safety and immigration. The teenager, identified as Lisa, was cycling home near Amsterdam when she was fatally attacked. According to reports, she managed to call emergency services during the assault, but help arrived too late. A 22-year-old asylum seeker, who was already under investigation for other crimes, has been arrested in connection with the killing. Grief Turns Into a Movement The tragedy has ignited a wave of solidarity and public outcry. Dutch actress and writer Nienke’s Gravemade penned a poem in Lisa’s memory, drawing on the haunting image of her red handbag still hanging from her bicycle. The poem has been widely shared online, with the phrase #rechtopdenacht (“right to the night”) emerging as a powerful rallying cry for women’s safety in public spaces. Vigils and marches have taken place in several cities, with citizens calling not only for justice for Lisa but also for broader reforms to ensure safer streets for women and young people. Also Read: Maria Sharapova steps into tennis immortality; inducted into Hall of Fame with 'forever friend' Serena Williams by her side Football Community Pays Tribute The nation’s grief was visible on football’s biggest stage when Dutch clubs came together to honour Lisa. At the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, Ajax supporters observed a solemn minute of silence. A large banner unfolded in the stands read: “Dear Lisa, brave warrior.” It was a deeply emotional moment, illustrating how sport can serve as a platform for shared mourning and solidarity. Other teams across the country followed suit with gestures of remembrance, underlining that Lisa’s story has touched every corner of Dutch society. Watch the video here by Ajax FC

<p>A message translating to 'Dear Lisa, Brave Warrior' was up on the screen during the match between Ajax FC and Heracles on Sunday (August 24)</p>

<p>As the International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025, hosted by the Saudi Falcons Club in Malham, north of Riyadh, concludes on Monday (Aug 25), the 21-day event witnessed participation from notable falcon breeding farms around the world. The highlight of the event remained three falcons, which were sold for a total of SAR1.276 million ($340k) on Saturday (Aug 23).</p><p>Saturday evening opened with the sale of the first falcon, Shaheen Gyr Farkh, from the UK-based Border Falcons farm, which was sold for SAR28,000 ($7.4k). While another Shaheen Gyr Farkh from the UK’s Falcon Mews farm was sold for SAR48,000 ($12k).</p><p>The most expensive falcon of the year sold at the auction was a Super White Pure Gyr Farkh from the US-based RX farm. The bird drew a competitive bidding and was finally sold for SAR1.2 million ($319.8k), according to the Saudi Press Agency.</p><p>International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025</p><p>The auction, which is attended by prominent local and international breeders, falconers, and enthusiasts, has been a trusted platform that brings together elite falcons in fast-paced, competitive bidding. It is also broadcast on television and live-streamed, which supports the Saudi Falcons Club’s vision of leading in the development of falcon breeding and care. It also raises environmental awareness and promotes the cultural and economic heritage.</p><p>The event is aimed at supporting falcon breeders from Saudi Arabia and other countries, offering them a safe and trusted environment for exchanging the birds and uplifting the Gulf nation’s position as a global hub for falconry events.</p><p>The event, which was launched four years ago, has seen a steady rise in the number of falcons traded, with over 2,300 birds sold and auctions exceeding SAR29 million ($ 7.729 million). The most expensive falcon by an international breeding farm was sold for SAR1.75 million ($466k), and from a local farm was sold for over SAR500,000 ($133k).</p>

A falcon was sold for nearly $320k at the International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025 in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh. The event draws prominent local and international breeders and enthusiasts.

As the International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025, hosted by the Saudi Falcons Club in Malham, north of Riyadh, concludes on Monday (Aug 25), the 21-day event witnessed participation from notable falcon breeding farms around the world. The highlight of the event remained three falcons, which were sold for a total of SAR1.276 million ($340k) on Saturday (Aug 23). Saturday evening opened with the sale of the first falcon, Shaheen Gyr Farkh, from the UK-based Border Falcons farm, which was sold for SAR28,000 ($7.4k). While another Shaheen Gyr Farkh from the UK’s Falcon Mews farm was sold for SAR48,000 ($12k). The most expensive falcon of the year sold at the auction was a Super White Pure Gyr Farkh from the US-based RX farm. The bird drew a competitive bidding and was finally sold for SAR1.2 million ($319.8k), according to the Saudi Press Agency. International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025 The auction, which is attended by prominent local and international breeders, falconers, and enthusiasts, has been a trusted platform that brings together elite falcons in fast-paced, competitive bidding. It is also broadcast on television and live-streamed, which supports the Saudi Falcons Club’s vision of leading in the development of falcon breeding and care. It also raises environmental awareness and promotes the cultural and economic heritage. The event is aimed at supporting falcon breeders from Saudi Arabia and other countries, offering them a safe and trusted environment for exchanging the birds and uplifting the Gulf nation’s position as a global hub for falconry events. The event, which was launched four years ago, has seen a steady rise in the number of falcons traded, with over 2,300 birds sold and auctions exceeding SAR29 million ($ 7.729 million). The most expensive falcon by an international breeding farm was sold for SAR1.75 million ($466k), and from a local farm was sold for over SAR500,000 ($133k).

<p>A falcon was sold for nearly $320k at the International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025 in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh. The event draws prominent local and international breeders and enthusiasts.</p>

Falcon for nearly $320k? Saudi Arabia auction draws competitive bidding from across the world

<p>Russian “cyber partisans” hijacked a major TV provider in Russia on 24 August, broadcasting footage that exposed the country’s battlefield setbacks and internal struggles, according to Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR). The Kyiv Independent reported the incident the following day.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-for-today-s-war-and-tomorrow-s-security-ukraine-s-new-flamingo-missile-is-the-gift-that-will-keep-on-giving-1756035953915"><strong>‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving</strong></a></p><h2>What did the hacked broadcast show?</h2><p>The video, played across 116 Russian channels on Ukraine’s Independence Day, displayed images of fuel shortages, water crises in occupied Donetsk, Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries, and Russia’s battlefield losses. “Three and a half years into the war, and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has not fully captured a single Ukrainian region. Ukraine remains independent,” the video declared. HUR’s source said the hackers also blocked the provider’s administrators from regaining control, making the broadcast harder to shut down.</p><h2><strong>How many people saw it?</strong></h2><p>At least 50,000 viewers across Moscow and other Russian regions reportedly watched more than three hours of the footage. The broadcast also spread through apps available on the Apple Store, Google Play, Smart TVs, and cable networks.</p><p>These claims, however, could not be independently verified by WION.</p><p>Since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukrainian hackers have routinely targeted Russian platforms. In July, HUR specialists reportedly staged a large-scale attack on Gazprom’s network infrastructure, disrupting operations at the energy giant.</p><h2><strong>Zelensky: “Ukraine is not a victim; it is a fighter”</strong></h2><p>In his Independence Day address, President Volodymyr Zelensky pledged that Ukraine would never stop defending its sovereignty. “We need a just peace, a peace where our future will be decided only by us,” he said.</p><p>“When Russia wants to take Sumy region, then our armed forces appear in Kursk region. When the enemy strikes our energy system, wanting to leave us without light and heat, then its oil refineries burn. Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost. Ukraine is not a victim; it is a fighter,” he added.</p><p>Foreign allies marked Ukraine’s Independence Day with high-level visits. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney travelled to Kyiv for talks with Zelensky, while US envoy Keith Kellogg also joined the celebrations. Britain’s King Charles sent a message offering his “warmest and most sincere wishes”, praising Ukrainians’ “unbreakable spirit”. Zelensky described the letter as “a true inspiration” during wartime.</p>

Ukrainian-aligned hackers hijacked 116 Russian TV channels, airing footage of Russia’s war failures, resource crises, and Putin’s stalled invasion, emphasising Ukraine’s continued independence despite years of conflict.

Russian “cyber partisans” hijacked a major TV provider in Russia on 24 August, broadcasting footage that exposed the country’s battlefield setbacks and internal struggles, according to Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR). The Kyiv Independent reported the incident the following day. Also read: ‘For today’s war and tomorrow’s security’: Ukraine’s new Flamingo missile is the gift that will keep on giving What did the hacked broadcast show? The video, played across 116 Russian channels on Ukraine’s Independence Day, displayed images of fuel shortages, water crises in occupied Donetsk, Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries, and Russia’s battlefield losses. “Three and a half years into the war, and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has not fully captured a single Ukrainian region. Ukraine remains independent,” the video declared. HUR’s source said the hackers also blocked the provider’s administrators from regaining control, making the broadcast harder to shut down. How many people saw it? At least 50,000 viewers across Moscow and other Russian regions reportedly watched more than three hours of the footage. The broadcast also spread through apps available on the Apple Store, Google Play, Smart TVs, and cable networks. These claims, however, could not be independently verified by WION. Since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukrainian hackers have routinely targeted Russian platforms. In July, HUR specialists reportedly staged a large-scale attack on Gazprom’s network infrastructure, disrupting operations at the energy giant. Zelensky: “Ukraine is not a victim; it is a fighter” In his Independence Day address, President Volodymyr Zelensky pledged that Ukraine would never stop defending its sovereignty. “We need a just peace, a peace where our future will be decided only by us,” he said. “When Russia wants to take Sumy region, then our armed forces appear in Kursk region. When the enemy strikes our energy system, wanting to leave us without light and heat, then its oil refineries burn. Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost. Ukraine is not a victim; it is a fighter,” he added. Foreign allies marked Ukraine’s Independence Day with high-level visits. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney travelled to Kyiv for talks with Zelensky, while US envoy Keith Kellogg also joined the celebrations. Britain’s King Charles sent a message offering his “warmest and most sincere wishes”, praising Ukrainians’ “unbreakable spirit”. Zelensky described the letter as “a true inspiration” during wartime.

<p>Ukrainian-aligned hackers hijacked 116 Russian TV channels, airing footage of Russia’s war failures, resource crises, and Putin’s stalled invasion, emphasising Ukraine’s continued independence despite years of conflict.</p>

'Ukraine remains independent': Russian 'cyber partisans' hackers disrupt Russian TV broadcast with Ukraine war footage on Independence Day

<p>An Israeli strike on a hospital in southern Gaza killed four journalists on Monday, according to local officials. In total, 19 people were killed in the attack on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, said Zaher al-Waheidi, head of the Gaza Health Ministry’s records department.</p><h2><strong>What happened at Nasser Hospital?</strong></h2><p>The Palestinian health ministry said Israel carried out two strikes on the hospital within minutes of each other. The first hit the fourth floor of the Nasser Medical Complex. Soon after, a second strike hit ambulance crews and emergency workers who had rushed to the scene. The hospital said the “double-tap” attacks killed journalists, health workers, and first responders.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jd-vance-doesn-t-know-history-us-vp-sparks-backlash-after-claiming-wwii-ended-with-negotiation-while-defending-trump-s-ukraine-plan-1756113223188"><strong>JD Vance labelled 'ignoramus' for claiming WWII ended in 'negotiations'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How has Israel responded?</strong></h2><p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed it had carried out “a strike in the area of” the hospital. It added that it “does not target journalists as such” and said the military chief has ordered an initial inquiry. However, the IDF statement did not acknowledge hitting the hospital directly, nor did it mention the two consecutive strikes or specify what was being targeted.</p><h2><strong>Who were the journalists killed?</strong></h2><p>Gaza’s Government Media Office identified the four journalists killed in the strike as:</p><p>• Hossam al-Masri – photojournalist with Reuters</p><p>• Mohammed Salama – photojournalist with Al Jazeera</p><p>• Mariam Abu Daqa – journalist who worked with outlets including The Independent Arabic and Associated Press</p><p>• Moaz Abu Taha – freelance journalist</p><p>The Israel-Hamas war has become one of the deadliest conflicts for journalists in modern history. At least 192 journalists have been killed in Gaza over the past 22 months, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). In comparison, CPJ says 18 journalists have been killed during Russia’s war in Ukraine.<br>With international media barred from entering Gaza except on rare guided tours, global news coverage relies heavily on Palestinian reporters and local residents. Israel has often questioned their affiliations but continues to deny access to others.<br>In a statement, Hamas said, “The cowardly enemy aims to deter journalists from conveying the truth and covering war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and the catastrophic living conditions of our Palestinian people in Gaza.”</p>

An Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital killed 19, including four journalists. Two rapid strikes targeted the hospital and emergency responders, causing multiple casualties among health workers and first responders.

An Israeli strike on a hospital in southern Gaza killed four journalists on Monday, according to local officials. In total, 19 people were killed in the attack on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, said Zaher al-Waheidi, head of the Gaza Health Ministry’s records department. What happened at Nasser Hospital? The Palestinian health ministry said Israel carried out two strikes on the hospital within minutes of each other. The first hit the fourth floor of the Nasser Medical Complex. Soon after, a second strike hit ambulance crews and emergency workers who had rushed to the scene. The hospital said the “double-tap” attacks killed journalists, health workers, and first responders. Also read: JD Vance labelled 'ignoramus' for claiming WWII ended in 'negotiations' How has Israel responded? The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed it had carried out “a strike in the area of” the hospital. It added that it “does not target journalists as such” and said the military chief has ordered an initial inquiry. However, the IDF statement did not acknowledge hitting the hospital directly, nor did it mention the two consecutive strikes or specify what was being targeted. Who were the journalists killed? Gaza’s Government Media Office identified the four journalists killed in the strike as: • Hossam al-Masri – photojournalist with Reuters • Mohammed Salama – photojournalist with Al Jazeera • Mariam Abu Daqa – journalist who worked with outlets including The Independent Arabic and Associated Press • Moaz Abu Taha – freelance journalist The Israel-Hamas war has become one of the deadliest conflicts for journalists in modern history. At least 192 journalists have been killed in Gaza over the past 22 months, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). In comparison, CPJ says 18 journalists have been killed during Russia’s war in Ukraine. With international media barred from entering Gaza except on rare guided tours, global news coverage relies heavily on Palestinian reporters and local residents. Israel has often questioned their affiliations but continues to deny access to others. In a statement, Hamas said, “The cowardly enemy aims to deter journalists from conveying the truth and covering war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and the catastrophic living conditions of our Palestinian people in Gaza.”

<p>An Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital killed 19, including four journalists. Two rapid strikes targeted the hospital and emergency responders, causing multiple casualties among health workers and first responders.</p>

Israel's ‘double-tap’ strike on Nasser Hospital leaves 19 dead, including 4 journalists: Who were they?

<p>A historic, colonial-era bridge in Myanmar that was the world’s tallest railway trestle when it came up has been destroyed during the fighting between the military junta and rebels in the ongoing conflict. The landmark 300 metres long Gokteik Bridge is at a height of 102 metres above a gorge and is still the highest bridge in Myanmar. It was the tallest railway trestle in the world when it opened in 1901 during the British colonial era.</p><p>The bridge, situated on the border of the Nawnghkio and Kyaukme townships in northern Shan State, is part of the Mandalay-Lashio railway line and has been a crucial transport link as well as a tourist attraction.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Videos and photos on social media showed the bridge partly collapsed and damaged.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The loss of the Gokteik Bridge marks the destruction of a century-old landmark and threatens vital transport and supply routes in Myanmar’s embattled north.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The 125 year old British colonial-era Railway Bridge- Gokteik Viaduct connecting Mandalay to northern Shan, was damaged in the ongoing clashes between the Myanmar Army &amp; TNLA militants. <a href="https://t.co/SGzfA7cJuG">pic.twitter.com/SGzfA7cJuG</a></p>&mdash; Subcontinental Defender 🛃 (@Anti_Separatist) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anti_Separatist/status/1959895536238285196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A civil war has been going on in Myanmar since the military deposed the civilian government in a coup in 2021, sparking nationwide resistance by pro-democracy militias and ethnic armed organisations. The collapse of the iconic bridge is proof of how Myanmar’s civil war is also damaging its historical and cultural heritage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>The junta and armed rebels blame each other&nbsp;</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Representatives from the military junta and armed rebel groups blamed each other for the destruction of the landmark Gokteik Bridge on Sunday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun claimed in a video statement that rebel factions, including the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and people’s defence forces groups had “bombed and destroyed” the bridge on Sunday, while another statement by the junta said the bridge had been “exploded with mines”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A TNLA spokesperson rejected the charge and accused the junta of bombing the bridge. “[The] Myanmar army tried to bomb our bases ... this morning by using drones. They bombed our troops, but their bomb also hit Gokteik bridge,” said TNLA spokesperson Lway Yay Oo.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH: Amit Shah Mocks Opposition over Constitution Amendment Bill: 'Will a PM Rule from Prison?</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amit-shah-mocks-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-will-a-pm-rule-from-prison-1756120474223/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/amit-shah-mocks-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-will-a-pm-rule-from-prison-1756120474223/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Clashes have been going on between junta forces and TNLA fighters in the nearby towns of Nawnghkio and Kyaukme in the last few weeks, even though the junta claimed to have recaptured Nawnghkio in July.</p><p>Myanmar’s junta is preparing for a December election that is being boycotted by opposition groups and criticised by international monitors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

A civil war has been going on in Myanmar since the military deposed the civilian government in 2021, igniting resistance by pro-democracy militias and ethnic armed organisations. The collapse of iconic bridge shows how the civil war is damaging Myanmar’s historical and cultural heritage.

A historic, colonial-era bridge in Myanmar that was the world’s tallest railway trestle when it came up has been destroyed during the fighting between the military junta and rebels in the ongoing conflict. The landmark 300 metres long Gokteik Bridge is at a height of 102 metres above a gorge and is still the highest bridge in Myanmar. It was the tallest railway trestle in the world when it opened in 1901 during the British colonial era. The bridge, situated on the border of the Nawnghkio and Kyaukme townships in northern Shan State, is part of the Mandalay-Lashio railway line and has been a crucial transport link as well as a tourist attraction. Videos and photos on social media showed the bridge partly collapsed and damaged. The loss of the Gokteik Bridge marks the destruction of a century-old landmark and threatens vital transport and supply routes in Myanmar’s embattled north.

<p>A civil war has been going on in Myanmar since the military deposed the civilian government in 2021, igniting resistance by pro-democracy militias and ethnic armed organisations. The collapse of iconic bridge shows how the civil war is damaging Myanmar’s historical and cultural heritage.</p>

Myanmar’s landmark bridge, once the world’s tallest rail viaduct, destroyed in fighting

<p>The Trump administration is preparing to remove the COVID-19 vaccine from the US market “within months,” according to claims made by one of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s closest allies.</p><h2><strong>What is being planned?</strong></h2><p>Dr Aseem Malhotra, a British cardiologist and adviser to the lobby group Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Action, told the Daily Beast that people close to Kennedy “cannot understand” why the vaccine is still prescribed. He said a decision could come “within months,” even if it sparks “fear of chaos” and major legal battles.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jd-vance-doesn-t-know-history-us-vp-sparks-backlash-after-claiming-wwii-ended-with-negotiation-while-defending-trump-s-ukraine-plan-1756113223188"><strong>JD Vance labelled 'ignoramus' for claiming WWII ended in 'negotiations'</strong></a></p><p>“It could [happen] in a number of stages, including learning more about the data,” Malhotra explained, adding that the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) is already reviewing so-called “vaccine injuries.” But, he added, “it could also come with one clean decision.”</p><h2><strong>Why are Kennedy’s allies pushing this?</strong></h2><p>Malhotra pointed to a 2022 paper published in the journal Vaccine. It suggested that adults given Pfizer and Moderna’s mRNA jabs faced a 16 percent higher risk of “excess serious adverse events” compared with those in the placebo group. Many scientists, however, have dismissed the paper as flawed and misleading, saying it downplays the benefits of vaccination and exaggerates the risks.</p><p>Malhotra has become a key figure in Kennedy’s circle. He says he first caught Kennedy’s attention in 2022 after publishing a paper on what he called “misinformation about the COVID mRNA vaccine.” Kennedy later called him directly, praising his “courage.”</p><p>Since then, Malhotra has campaigned for Kennedy, joined him on hikes in Los Angeles, and now plans to meet Donald Trump himself in September. “I think [Trump will] get it, because it’s in his interest to,” Malhotra said. “He’s in a position to fix it. He can create a lasting legacy by doing so.”</p><p>The controversy arose shortly after Kennedy, now serving as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), cancelled $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development. He has also claimed the COVID shot is “the deadliest vaccine ever made.”</p><p>More than 750 current and former staff from the CDC, HHS and NIH have accused Kennedy of spreading “dangerous misinformation” that undermines public trust and even contributed to a deadly shooting at the CDC earlier this month. In a public letter, they accused him of “dismantling America’s public health infrastructure and endangering the nation’s health.”</p>

The Trump administration may remove the COVID-19 vaccine from the US market within months, amid legal battles and data reviews, according to Dr. Aseem Malhotra, an adviser linked to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The Trump administration is preparing to remove the COVID-19 vaccine from the US market “within months,” according to claims made by one of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s closest allies. What is being planned? Dr Aseem Malhotra, a British cardiologist and adviser to the lobby group Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Action, told the Daily Beast that people close to Kennedy “cannot understand” why the vaccine is still prescribed. He said a decision could come “within months,” even if it sparks “fear of chaos” and major legal battles. Also read: JD Vance labelled 'ignoramus' for claiming WWII ended in 'negotiations' “It could [happen] in a number of stages, including learning more about the data,” Malhotra explained, adding that the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) is already reviewing so-called “vaccine injuries.” But, he added, “it could also come with one clean decision.” Why are Kennedy’s allies pushing this? Malhotra pointed to a 2022 paper published in the journal Vaccine. It suggested that adults given Pfizer and Moderna’s mRNA jabs faced a 16 percent higher risk of “excess serious adverse events” compared with those in the placebo group. Many scientists, however, have dismissed the paper as flawed and misleading, saying it downplays the benefits of vaccination and exaggerates the risks. Malhotra has become a key figure in Kennedy’s circle. He says he first caught Kennedy’s attention in 2022 after publishing a paper on what he called “misinformation about the COVID mRNA vaccine.” Kennedy later called him directly, praising his “courage.” Since then, Malhotra has campaigned for Kennedy, joined him on hikes in Los Angeles, and now plans to meet Donald Trump himself in September. “I think [Trump will] get it, because it’s in his interest to,” Malhotra said. “He’s in a position to fix it. He can create a lasting legacy by doing so.” The controversy arose shortly after Kennedy, now serving as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), cancelled $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development. He has also claimed the COVID shot is “the deadliest vaccine ever made.” More than 750 current and former staff from the CDC, HHS and NIH have accused Kennedy of spreading “dangerous misinformation” that undermines public trust and even contributed to a deadly shooting at the CDC earlier this month. In a public letter, they accused him of “dismantling America’s public health infrastructure and endangering the nation’s health.”

<p>The Trump administration may remove the COVID-19 vaccine from the US market within months, amid legal battles and data reviews, according to Dr. Aseem Malhotra, an adviser linked to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</p>

America to lose COVID vaccine? Trump, RFK Jr. planning to pull COVID vaccine from US market 'within months': Report

<p>The Philippines' Armed Forces have reportedly shown interest in acquiring India's Pralay Ballistic missiles. According to sources of the Indian Defence Research Wing, the Philippines is interested in the expansion of defence ties with India, after the successful 2022 BrahMos deal. Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, the Pralay is a short-range, solid-fuel, quasi-ballistic system designed for precision strikes against high-value targets.&nbsp;</p><h2>Key features of Pralay Missile</h2><p>Pralay is a canisterised, road mobile missile with a range of 150–500 km, and has potential for further extension depending on mission requirements. It is a hypersonic missile with a top speed of Mach 6.1, which reduces the probability of interception and increases the deployment speed. It is capable of delivering conventional warheads such as High Explosive Preformed Fragmentation, Penetration-Cum-Blast, and Runway Denial Penetration Submunitions, weighing from 350 kg up to 1,000 kg. Its precision is determined by the Inertial Navigation System for mid-course guidance and Millimetre-Wave Digital Scene Matching Area Correlator, along with radar imaging for the terminal phase. It is deployed using a 12×12 Ashok Leyland Heavy Mobility Vehicle (HMV) transporter erector launcher (TEL), with deployment to launch time between 10 minutes and command to launch time of 60 seconds. It also features a quasi-ballistic trajectory and a manoeuvrable re-entry vehicle technology enabling it to evade anti-missile defences.</p><h2>Strategic Significance</h2><p>The Pralay missile is another option for India's tactical deterrence in precision-guided systems. India already has Prahar, Shaurya, BrahMos, Nirbhay, HELINA, Rudram Series, SAAW, and Akash, which can be used for precision strikes. This is potentially significant in the case of a land engagement over a short range.&nbsp;</p><p>According to the IDRW report, Armenia is in advanced negotiations with India and is expected to place the first batch order for the Pralay missile, with a visiting delegation reportedly witnessing testing of Pralay in July 2025. Armenia is engaged in a conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh in the South Caucasus, which is internationally recognised as Azerbaijan but historically had Armenian ties. India has emerged as Armenia's largest arms supplier, surpassing Russia. Between 2022 and 2024, Armenia signed defence contracts with India valued at over $1.5 billion. These include 15 units of Akash-1S Air Defence System, 4 batteries of Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher, 6 units ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System), and 15 units of Ashwin Ballistic Missile Defence Interceptors.&nbsp;</p><p>India has already delivered $375 million worth of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, increasing the naval deterrence of the Philippines. The Pralay Missile is expected to increase the land-based capabilities of the Philippines, with increased intensity of territorial conflict with Cambodia. India's growing stature as a global defence exporter aligns with "Make in India" initiatives and enhances diplomatic engagement in South East Asia, countering Chinese influence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Reports from the Indian Defence Research Wing suggest that the Philippines is showing interest in India's Pralay missile after the BrahMos deal. Explore its speed, range, warhead types, and precision-strike capabilities.

The Philippines' Armed Forces have reportedly shown interest in acquiring India's Pralay Ballistic missiles. According to sources of the Indian Defence Research Wing, the Philippines is interested in the expansion of defence ties with India, after the successful 2022 BrahMos deal. Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, the Pralay is a short-range, solid-fuel, quasi-ballistic system designed for precision strikes against high-value targets. Key features of Pralay Missile Pralay is a canisterised, road mobile missile with a range of 150–500 km, and has potential for further extension depending on mission requirements. It is a hypersonic missile with a top speed of Mach 6.1, which reduces the probability of interception and increases the deployment speed. It is capable of delivering conventional warheads such as High Explosive Preformed Fragmentation, Penetration-Cum-Blast, and Runway Denial Penetration Submunitions, weighing from 350 kg up to 1,000 kg. Its precision is determined by the Inertial Navigation System for mid-course guidance and Millimetre-Wave Digital Scene Matching Area Correlator, along with radar imaging for the terminal phase. It is deployed using a 12×12 Ashok Leyland Heavy Mobility Vehicle (HMV) transporter erector launcher (TEL), with deployment to launch time between 10 minutes and command to launch time of 60 seconds. It also features a quasi-ballistic trajectory and a manoeuvrable re-entry vehicle technology enabling it to evade anti-missile defences. Strategic Significance The Pralay missile is another option for India's tactical deterrence in precision-guided systems. India already has Prahar, Shaurya, BrahMos, Nirbhay, HELINA, Rudram Series, SAAW, and Akash, which can be used for precision strikes. This is potentially significant in the case of a land engagement over a short range. According to the IDRW report, Armenia is in advanced negotiations with India and is expected to place the first batch order for the Pralay missile, with a visiting delegation reportedly witnessing testing of Pralay in July 2025. Armenia is engaged in a conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh in the South Caucasus, which is internationally recognised as Azerbaijan but historically had Armenian ties. India has emerged as Armenia's largest arms supplier, surpassing Russia. Between 2022 and 2024, Armenia signed defence contracts with India valued at over $1.5 billion. These include 15 units of Akash-1S Air Defence System, 4 batteries of Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher, 6 units ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System), and 15 units of Ashwin Ballistic Missile Defence Interceptors. India has already delivered $375 million worth of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, increasing the naval deterrence of the Philippines. The Pralay Missile is expected to increase the land-based capabilities of the Philippines, with increased intensity of territorial conflict with Cambodia. India's growing stature as a global defence exporter aligns with "Make in India" initiatives and enhances diplomatic engagement in South East Asia, countering Chinese influence.

<p>Reports from the Indian Defence Research Wing suggest that the Philippines is showing interest in India's Pralay missile after the BrahMos deal. Explore its speed, range, warhead types, and precision-strike capabilities.</p>

Philippines eyes India’s Pralay ballistic missile after BrahMos deal: Key features, speed and range

<p>In an unusual incident, a hot air balloon made an unexpected landing in a narrow residential street in England on Saturday (Aug 23). The incident, which happened in the town of Bedford on Bower Street, left the residents stunned as they watched the massive balloon descend between the houses, cars and overhead wires on a quiet morning.</p><p>According to a Guardian report, local resident Sam Coldham said he saw the balloon coming down about 9:30 am as the passerby watched, while he was walking his dog with his partner. The incident was captured on camera by local residents, video of which went viral on social media.</p><p>In the clip, several passersby can be seen rushing to help as they grab the guide rope to lower the balloon, avoiding the houses and parked cars. As it touches down on the ground, people can be heard cheering the safe landing.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">That&#39;s not something you see every day!<br><br>Hot air balloon makes an emergency landing onto Bower Street in Bedford, UK around 9.30am yesterday morning 🎈<a href="https://t.co/1soYWVrCaJ">pic.twitter.com/1soYWVrCaJ</a></p>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1959645468301857057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>“It was extraordinary. It came down quickly and uncontrollably, very nearly missing the terraced houses and pylons,” said Georgia Balać, whose partner helped in landing the balloon using an emergency line thrown down by the pilot. “It made a near-perfect landing between parked cars on either side.”</p><p>The pilot of the balloon, Oliver Surridge, 40, said that his training “kicked in” after he made a “split-second” decision to land the balloon in the residential street, according to the BBC. The balloon originally started its journey from Great Staughton, Cambridgeshire and was heading towards the Priory Marina area on the east side of Bedford. However, a change in wind direction forced him to think quickly and land in the residential street.</p><p>The British Balloon &amp; Airship Club later confirmed the incident, which said that the balloon “landed without incident” and everyone on board was fine. Eben Chinn, a local resident who came out of his home to assist the landing, said that the only damage to the balloon was a small burn mark, which happened when it deflated quickly upon landing.</p>

A hot air balloon made a “near-perfect landing” after the pilot was forced to land in a residential street in the town of Bedford in England, stunning the local residents.

In an unusual incident, a hot air balloon made an unexpected landing in a narrow residential street in England on Saturday (Aug 23). The incident, which happened in the town of Bedford on Bower Street, left the residents stunned as they watched the massive balloon descend between the houses, cars and overhead wires on a quiet morning. According to a Guardian report, local resident Sam Coldham said he saw the balloon coming down about 9:30 am as the passerby watched, while he was walking his dog with his partner. The incident was captured on camera by local residents, video of which went viral on social media. In the clip, several passersby can be seen rushing to help as they grab the guide rope to lower the balloon, avoiding the houses and parked cars. As it touches down on the ground, people can be heard cheering the safe landing.

<p>A hot air balloon made a “near-perfect landing” after the pilot was forced to land in a residential street in the town of Bedford in England, stunning the local residents.</p>

WATCH | Hot air balloon makes ‘near-perfect landing between cars’ in residential street

<p>Screwworm outbreak can impact livestock in the US. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has now estimated that it could affect the economy in Texas, which is the biggest cattle-producing state. The losses could amount to $1.8 billion in livestock deaths, medication and the cost of labour involved. The cattle herd size in the country is currently the slimmest in seventy years. The country had eradicated screwworms in the 1960s and now it has recorded the first human case, which is a rare occurrence. These are maggot-like worms that infest the host, and as they drill through the animal's body like a screw into wood, that's how they get their name. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-detects-human-case-of-screwworm-infestation-maryland-resident-infected-after-guatemala-trip-1756088945427/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-detects-human-case-of-screwworm-infestation-maryland-resident-infected-after-guatemala-trip-1756088945427/embed</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Brooke Rollins, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, along with other government officials, travelled to Texas to announce plans to build a sterile fly facility. This would help ward off the pests. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/deadly-parasite-returns-to-us-after-60-years-can-screwworms-infect-humans-and-are-they-contagious-1756104963454"><strong>Deadly parasite returns to US after 60 years: Can screwworms infect humans and are they contagious?</strong></a></p><h2>What are screwworms?</h2><p>Screwworms are parasitic flies which usually feed on warm-blooded animals; if untreated, can be fatal. The female flies lay eggs in wounds on animals. And once the eggs hatch, the larvae then begin digging through the host animal's body. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>These parasitic flies are similar to maggots, and their activity seems like a screw being driven into wood. They usually feed on cattle and wildlife; infestations in humans is a rarity, but once they attack, it can turn fatal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The US recorded its first new human screwworm case. The parasitic flies usually feed on warm-blooded animals; if left untreated, can be fatal.  

Screwworm outbreak can impact livestock in the US. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has now estimated that it could affect the economy in Texas, which is the biggest cattle-producing state. The losses could amount to $1.8 billion in livestock deaths, medication and the cost of labour involved. The cattle herd size in the country is currently the slimmest in seventy years. The country had eradicated screwworms in the 1960s and now it has recorded the first human case, which is a rare occurrence. These are maggot-like worms that infest the host, and as they drill through the animal's body like a screw into wood, that's how they get their name. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-detects-human-case-of-screwworm-infestation-maryland-resident-infected-after-guatemala-trip-1756088945427/embed Brooke Rollins, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, along with other government officials, travelled to Texas to announce plans to build a sterile fly facility. This would help ward off the pests.

<p>The US recorded its first new human screwworm case. The parasitic flies usually feed on warm-blooded animals; if left untreated, can be fatal. &nbsp;</p>

Screwworm outbreak to impact livestock, could cost US $1.8 billion. How?

<p>Indian politician Harsimrat Kaur Badal has urged &nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take up Indian truck driver Harjinder Singh’s case with the United States government to ensure his rights. In a video statement, Badal urged the foreign minister to ensure that Harjinder is allowed to wear a ‘dastar’ and that “he is not persecuted as a murderer.” While Badal admitted that Harjinder committed a “grave mistake” which led to the death of three people in Florida, the Indian politician emphasised that “he is not a murderer and should not not treated as such.”&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I appeal to external affairs minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> to take up Sikh truck driver Harjinder Singh’s case with the United State’s govt to ensure his rights, including that to wear a ‘dastar’, are protected &amp; he is not persecuted as a murderer. Harjinder committed a grave mistake… <a href="https://t.co/rxdREViBBe">pic.twitter.com/rxdREViBBe</a></p>&mdash; Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarsimratBadal_/status/1959612755608207519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Meanwhile, Punjab Industry Minister Sanjeev Arora on Sunday (Aug 24) urged Jaishankar to intervene after the US paused work visas for foreign truck drivers. Acknowledging that Harjinder Singh is responsible for his mistake, Arora expressed concern over the impact of this decision on the approximately 1.5 lakh Punjabis working in the US trucking industry. he stressed that the actions of one individual should not lead to the collective punishment of an entire community. Arora highlighted the Punjabi community’s significant contribution to the US economy and requested the Ministry of External Affairs to engage with US authorities for clarification and resolution. Badal also quoted similar statistics and echoed the same sentiments, adding that a new language proficiency rule must be brought in.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Read More | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-minister-wants-centre-s-intervention-in-harjinder-singh-s-case-after-us-pauses-foreign-truck-driver-visas-1756094457179"><strong>Indian minister wants Centre's intervention in Harjinder Singh's case after US pauses foreign truck driver visas</strong></a></p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/florida-crash-over-1-million-sign-petition-supporting-indian-trucker-detained-1756112359862/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/florida-crash-over-1-million-sign-petition-supporting-indian-trucker-detained-1756112359862/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Harjinder Singh and h<strong>is ‘illegal’ entry</strong></h2><p>Harjinder Singh has been arrested in California and is lodged in a Florida jail. He is facing three counts of manslaughter and three counts of vehicular homicide, and under state law, each count of vehicular homicide can carry up to 15 years in prison. Florida officials claimed that Singh entered the US illegally from Mexico in 2018. Homeland Security later revealed he was granted a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in California and Washington. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office claimed Singh obtained a work permit during Trump’s presidency, but Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin countered that, stating his permit was denied in September 2020 and only approved in June 2021, under President Biden.</p><p><strong>Read More | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pauses-foreign-truck-driver-visas-after-indian-man-s-illegal-turn-crash-killed-3-in-florida-was-he-staying-illegally-1755836022867"><strong>Indian man's 'illegal turn' crash kills 3 in Florida: Was he staying illegally?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Petition and counter-petition on Harjinder Singh</strong></h2><p>Harjinder Singh's case has sparked an online petition demanding his release as well as a counter-petition demanding his deportation. His petition demanding his release attracted over 2 million signatures as the supporters argued that the tragic incident was an accident rather than an intentional act. Supporters insisted that Singh should be held accountable, but not subjected to what they see as excessively harsh charges. In the counter petition, people demanded that he should face the US justice system, while also calling for scrutiny of the immigration status of all foreign truck drivers. They also argued that those defending Singh’s actions pose a potential risk to public safety by promoting leniency for conduct that resulted in three deaths.</p><p><strong>Read More | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/citing-terrorism-concerns-visa-revocations-doubled-in-trump-s-2nd-term-1755829280859"><strong>Citing terrorism concerns: US visa revocations doubled in Trump's 2nd term</strong></a></p>

As Indian truck driver in the US faces trial for taking an illegal U-turn and killing three people in Florida, Indian politician Harsimrat Kaur Badal urged the Indian government to ensure that his rights are not taken away. She defended her in a video statement

Indian politician Harsimrat Kaur Badal has urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take up Indian truck driver Harjinder Singh’s case with the United States government to ensure his rights. In a video statement, Badal urged the foreign minister to ensure that Harjinder is allowed to wear a ‘dastar’ and that “he is not persecuted as a murderer.” While Badal admitted that Harjinder committed a “grave mistake” which led to the death of three people in Florida, the Indian politician emphasised that “he is not a murderer and should not not treated as such.”

<p>As Indian truck driver in the US faces trial for taking an illegal U-turn and killing three people in Florida, Indian politician Harsimrat Kaur Badal urged the Indian government to ensure that his rights are not taken away. She defended her in a video statement</p>

'Not a murderer': Indian politician defends truck driver Harjinder Singh whose 'illegal' U-turn killed 3 in US

<p>The Russian army Monday claimed to have captured another village in Ukraine's&nbsp;Dnipropetrovsk region, moving deeper into Ukrainian territory as peace efforts stall.</p><p>Russian forces are slowly but steadily gaining ground in costly battles for largely devastated areas&nbsp;in eastern and central Ukraine, normally with few inhabitants or intact buildings left.</p><p>Russia's defence ministry said its forces had seized the settlement of Zaporizke in the region, which Russian troops recently advanced into for the first time in the three-and-a-half-year offensive.</p><p>Kyiv denies that Russian troops have gained a foothold in the&nbsp;Dnipropetrovsk region, an important industrial hub.</p><p>After another push by US President Donald Trump to broker a Ukraine-Russia summit, hopes for peace dimmed when Russia last week ruled out any immediate meeting between presidents Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky.</p><p>The central region of Dnipropetrovsk has previously been largely spared from fighting that has ravaged swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine, until Russia said its forces broke through in July.</p><p>Dnipropetrovsk is not one of the five Ukrainian regions -- Donetsk, Kherson, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea -- that Moscow has publicly claimed as Russian territory.</p><p>Ukraine said Russia had launched over 100 drones Monday, killing a 37-year old civilian driver and wounding two people in the northeastern Sumy region.</p><p>Moscow said Kyiv had launched about two dozen drones targeting western Russia.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

Dnipropetrovsk is not one of the five Ukrainian regions -- Donetsk, Kherson, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea -- that Moscow has publicly claimed as Russian territory.

The Russian army Monday claimed to have captured another village in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, moving deeper into Ukrainian territory as peace efforts stall. Russian forces are slowly but steadily gaining ground in costly battles for largely devastated areas in eastern and central Ukraine, normally with few inhabitants or intact buildings left. Russia's defence ministry said its forces had seized the settlement of Zaporizke in the region, which Russian troops recently advanced into for the first time in the three-and-a-half-year offensive. Kyiv denies that Russian troops have gained a foothold in the Dnipropetrovsk region, an important industrial hub. After another push by US President Donald Trump to broker a Ukraine-Russia summit, hopes for peace dimmed when Russia last week ruled out any immediate meeting between presidents Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky. The central region of Dnipropetrovsk has previously been largely spared from fighting that has ravaged swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine, until Russia said its forces broke through in July. Dnipropetrovsk is not one of the five Ukrainian regions -- Donetsk, Kherson, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea -- that Moscow has publicly claimed as Russian territory. Ukraine said Russia had launched over 100 drones Monday, killing a 37-year old civilian driver and wounding two people in the northeastern Sumy region. Moscow said Kyiv had launched about two dozen drones targeting western Russia. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>Dnipropetrovsk is not one of the five Ukrainian regions -- Donetsk, Kherson, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea -- that Moscow has publicly claimed as Russian territory.</p>

Russia says captured another village in Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine

Discover the top 10 nations with the highest defence spending in 2025 and how they fare against their bitter rivals. Explore the Global Power Index (PwrIndx), which scores Nations on a range from 0.0000 (perfect) to higher values, with lower scores indicating stronger military capabilities.

Global Defence Budget 2025: Nations with the highest defence spending

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 is near, and Lord Ganesha’s worship goes beyond India. From Japan to Cambodia, discover six countries where Ganpati Bappa is revered as a symbol of wisdom, joy, and new beginnings.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: 6 Countries outside India where Lord Ganesha is worshipped

<p>A first case of new human screwworm has been reported in the US. It has been observed that the parasitic flies feed on warm-blooded animals and pierce through them. If untreated, the infestation can lead to become fatal. Screwworm usually infests cattle and wild animals; it's rare to target humans. The recent case was reported in Maryland, but it surfaced after Brooke Rollins, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, along with other government officials, travelled to Texas to announce plans to build a sterile fly facility, which would help ward off the pests. The disease was eradicated from the US in the 1960s using Sterile Insect Technique.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-detects-human-case-of-screwworm-infestation-maryland-resident-infected-after-guatemala-trip-1756088945427/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-detects-human-case-of-screwworm-infestation-maryland-resident-infected-after-guatemala-trip-1756088945427/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What is Sterile Insect Technique?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a bid to eradicate the infestations, Rollins advocated the adoption of a plan which was used in the past. A sterile fly facility produces a large number of male flies and then sterilises them. They are later released to mate with the female flies, and this drastically reduces the population. This method was succesfull and effective in eradicating screwworm in the 1960s.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A sterile fly facility produces a large number of male flies and sterilises them - these males are then released to mate with wild female insects, which collapses the wild population over time. This method eradicated screwworm from the US in the 1960s.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/deadly-parasite-returns-to-us-after-60-years-can-screwworms-infect-humans-and-are-they-contagious-1756104963454"><strong>Deadly parasite returns to US after 60 years: Can screwworms infect humans and are they contagious?</strong></a></p><h2>In a letter written to Charles A. Stewart, Secretary-General Manager, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association highlighted:</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The investigations showed that a normal female screwworm fly mated with a male which had been made sterile by exposure to X-rays or gamma rays produced infertile eggs. The information obtained supported the theoretical calculations that the introduction of a preponderance of sterile male flies into a normal population would result in a reduction in the numbers of the species simply because the sterile males would greatly reduce the production of normal flies.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The letter further noted, “It was demonstrated in laboratory cages and small field tests that the continued introduction of sterile males would soon result in the complete elimination of the insects. The final crucial experiment was conducted by our research group on the island of Curacao in 1954 where the screv-vorm was eradicated by use of this technique.”</p><h2>What are screwworms?</h2><p>Screwworms are parasitic flies which feed on the host and, if untreated, can be fatal. The female flies lay eggs in wounds on animals. They usually do so on warm-blooded animals. And once the eggs hatch, the larvae then begin digging through the host animal's body. These parasitic flies are similar to maggots, and their activity seems like a screw being driven into wood. They usually feed on cattle and wildlife; infestations in humans is a rarity, but once they attack, it can turn fatal.</p>

The US has reported its first human screwworm case in Maryland. It's a rare occurance for humans to be infested as the parasitic flies usually attack livestock.

A first case of new human screwworm has been reported in the US. It has been observed that the parasitic flies feed on warm-blooded animals and pierce through them. If untreated, the infestation can lead to become fatal. Screwworm usually infests cattle and wild animals; it's rare to target humans. The recent case was reported in Maryland, but it surfaced after Brooke Rollins, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, along with other government officials, travelled to Texas to announce plans to build a sterile fly facility, which would help ward off the pests. The disease was eradicated from the US in the 1960s using Sterile Insect Technique. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-detects-human-case-of-screwworm-infestation-maryland-resident-infected-after-guatemala-trip-1756088945427/embed What is Sterile Insect Technique? In a bid to eradicate the infestations, Rollins advocated the adoption of a plan which was used in the past. A sterile fly facility produces a large number of male flies and then sterilises them. They are later released to mate with the female flies, and this drastically reduces the population. This method was succesfull and effective in eradicating screwworm in the 1960s. A sterile fly facility produces a large number of male flies and sterilises them - these males are then released to mate with wild female insects, which collapses the wild population over time. This method eradicated screwworm from the US in the 1960s. Also read: Deadly parasite returns to US after 60 years: Can screwworms infect humans and are they contagious? In a letter written to Charles A. Stewart, Secretary-General Manager, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association highlighted: “The investigations showed that a normal female screwworm fly mated with a male which had been made sterile by exposure to X-rays or gamma rays produced infertile eggs. The information obtained supported the theoretical calculations that the introduction of a preponderance of sterile male flies into a normal population would result in a reduction in the numbers of the species simply because the sterile males would greatly reduce the production of normal flies.” The letter further noted, “It was demonstrated in laboratory cages and small field tests that the continued introduction of sterile males would soon result in the complete elimination of the insects. The final crucial experiment was conducted by our research group on the island of Curacao in 1954 where the screv-vorm was eradicated by use of this technique.” What are screwworms? Screwworms are parasitic flies which feed on the host and, if untreated, can be fatal. The female flies lay eggs in wounds on animals. They usually do so on warm-blooded animals. And once the eggs hatch, the larvae then begin digging through the host animal's body. These parasitic flies are similar to maggots, and their activity seems like a screw being driven into wood. They usually feed on cattle and wildlife; infestations in humans is a rarity, but once they attack, it can turn fatal.

<p>The US has reported its first human screwworm case in Maryland. It's a rare occurance for humans to be infested as the parasitic flies usually attack livestock.</p>

Sterile Insect Technique helped eradicate screwworm from US in 1960s. How does it work?

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