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The Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum (TSSF) 7.0 has once again brought to the fore the current reality of Nigeria’s obsolete telecom infrastructure and the need for smarter plans to develop new technologies and attract more investment.The event, which took place in Lagos on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, was attended by policymakers, regulators, operators, investors, innovators, and industry experts in the telecom industry.<h2>Telecom Now Backbone of Digital Economy — Convener</h2>In her opening remarks, the Convener, Bukola Olarewaju, highlighted that telecommunications is no longer simply an enabler of communication but a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s data-driven digital economy, supporting financial services, e-commerce, healthcare, education, governance, innovation, and virtually every aspect of modern technology.According to Olarewaju, “Sustaining the progress requires us to confront some difficult realities that can stall existing goals in the industry: the rising infrastructure cost, foreign exchange pressures, high financing cost, energy expenses, inflation and the increasing cost of network deployment.”She stressed that demand for reliable connectivity continues to rise as businesses, government and citizens become increasingly dependent on digital services.“It is on this premise of recent industry concerns over the cost of financing and maintaining network infrastructure that the urgency of the theme, ‘Rethinking Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy to Attract Investment and Drive Innovation,’ has become imperative to discuss,” she said.Olarewaju pointed out that this year’s theme, which seeks to deepen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure strategy to attract investments and drive innovation, is timely and deliberate.“The question before us is not whether Nigeria needs more digital infrastructure — invariably we do — but more importantly, how do we create the right environment to attract the capital required to build, maintain and expand that infrastructure sustainably?” she queried.<h2>We Don’t Licence GSM, We Licence Spectrum — Engr. Nnamani</h2>Speaking while presenting the lead paper titled “Enabler of Digital Infrastructure Development and Investment,” the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digital Realty Nigeria and Co-Chair of the National Sovereign Investment (NSI) Technical Working Group, Engr. Ike Nnamani, declared that digital infrastructure is evolving based on the way service providers see it.He revealed that Nigeria never issued any Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) licence, but what the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued was a Digital Mobile Licence.“The regulators issue spectrum, they don’t licence service. What you do with the spectrum they give you is up to you, based on the technology you decide to adopt,” he said.Nnamani disclosed that MTN, which is widely regarded as the biggest telecom operator in Africa from a mobile telephony standpoint, does not see itself as a traditional mobile operator. Rather, according to him, MTN has decided to set up a subsidiary to go into data centres.“The biggest plan for MTN is to go into cloud services. They are actually looking at the emerging cloud service as their biggest business going forward,” he revealed.Engr. Nnamani noted that all those we see today as hyperscalers who truly run the digital infrastructure and make it happen are not the traditional players we know. They emerged and were able to rule the world because of their ability to embrace modern emerging technology and dominate in it.“The big names like Amazon and Apple are not traditional telephony service providers. We should be asking ourselves, in another 10 years, who are going to be the market leaders?” he asked.Citing data from a graph, Engr. Nnamani further explained that from a telephony standpoint, Nigeria is perceived as the biggest market in Africa in line with its population, but even within Africa, the flow of internet traffic between Nigeria and South Africa is way smaller compared to the traffic between South Africa and Kenya.“This is so because the Kenya market is more digitised than the Nigerian market,” he explained.Nnamani also informed participants that Nigeria was officially announced to have a digital economy by the late President Muhammadu Buhari on Democracy Day, May 29, 2023. However, he noted that without having local cloud infrastructure, all data would be piped through submarine cables and stored elsewhere.He declared that the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) set up a Technical Working Group to ensure that government services are based on a Cloud-First policy.“For instance, if one wants to host data belonging to Nigerians, it should be sitting in a geographical space within Nigeria,” he said.According to him, NITDA has developed a National Sovereign Cloud Initiative to localise cloud services and ensure that cloud operations are domiciled in Nigeria.<h2>Quality Customer Experience Key</h2>Corroborating Engr. Nnamani’s position, Engr John Nwachukwu, Chief Strategy/Executive Officer (CSEO) of Zoracom Communications Limited, clarified that network operators are now more reliant on cable connectivity, rolling out fibre even to homes.“If you have a quality customer experience, you will ensure your customers are happy by bringing in solutions,” he pointed out.On his part, Mr. Chidi Ajuzie, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of WTES Group, said Nigeria has 90 percent mobile penetration, but broadband penetration is still 67 percent based on current data from the NCC.“This means that the real broadband we need for the digital economy is still a long way off,” Ajuzie said.Earlier in his goodwill message, Mr. Ajibola Olude, General Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria ATCON, said focus must extend beyond connectivity statistics to measurable outcomes that improve lives and strengthen the economy.He emphasised the need to develop a pipeline of skilled, industry-ready digital professionals who can meet the demands of Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.He also stressed that rural inclusion is critical, because a majority of rural communities are still not connected.“For growth to thrive, we need to enable digital businesses to emerge, expand and create meaningful employment opportunities across Nigeria,” Ajibola said.<h2>Tell Our Success Stories Too — ALTON Chairman</h2>On his part, the National Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, said problems and challenges will never end.He noted that while forums like TSSF discuss challenges and needs, operators must also tell their success stories because no one will do it for them.“As we look at sustainability and the progress of the future, we must remember to talk about the work we have done and the sacrifices made that are enhancing society everywhere,” he said.Adebayo cited the recent initiative by ALTON members to provide zero-rated access to professional and educational websites as an example of industry contributions that have positively impacted many Nigerians.The summit, which was intelligently moderated by WIONEWS Nigeria Correspondent, Louisa Olaniyi, concluded with an insightful panel session that had Engr John Nwachukwu of Zoracom, Mr Chidi Ajuzie of WTES, Rosalin Ilori of Bridge 57 Solutions, Dr. Olusola Teniola of IPNX who joined virtually, &nbsp;Mr. Wasiu Oluwole of Cedarview Communication, Mr Akinyele Oludare of Impulso integrated services, and Mr Debo Daudu of Infratel Africa.The panellists unanimously agreed that Nigeria must rethink its infrastructure strategy, harmonise policies, encourage infrastructure sharing, resolve power and Right of Way (RoW) challenges, and create a sustainable, investor-friendly environment that will drive innovation and secure the future of its digital economy. &nbsp;

Engr. Nnamani noted that all those we see today as hyperscalers who truly run the digital infrastructure and make it happen are not the traditional players we know. They emerged and were able to rule the world because of their ability to embrace modern emerging technology and dominate in it.

The Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum (TSSF) 7.0 has once again brought to the fore the current reality of Nigeria’s obsolete telecom infrastructure and the need for smarter plans to develop new technologies and attract more investment. The event, which took place in Lagos on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, was attended by policymakers, regulators, operators, investors, innovators, and industry experts in the telecom industry. Telecom Now Backbone of Digital Economy — Convener In her opening remarks, the Convener, Bukola Olarewaju, highlighted that telecommunications is no longer simply an enabler of communication but a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s data-driven digital economy, supporting financial services, e-commerce, healthcare, education, governance, innovation, and virtually every aspect of modern technology. According to Olarewaju, “Sustaining the progress requires us to confront some difficult realities that can stall existing goals in the industry: the rising infrastructure cost, foreign exchange pressures, high financing cost, energy expenses, inflation and the increasing cost of network deployment.” She stressed that demand for reliable connectivity continues to rise as businesses, government and citizens become increasingly dependent on digital services. “It is on this premise of recent industry concerns over the cost of financing and maintaining network infrastructure that the urgency of the theme, ‘Rethinking Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy to Attract Investment and Drive Innovation,’ has become imperative to discuss,” she said. Olarewaju pointed out that this year’s theme, which seeks to deepen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure strategy to attract investments and drive innovation, is timely and deliberate. “The question before us is not whether Nigeria needs more digital infrastructure — invariably we do — but more importantly, how do we create the right environment to attract the capital required to build, maintain and expand that infrastructure sustainably?” she queried. We Don’t Licence GSM, We Licence Spectrum — Engr. Nnamani Speaking while presenting the lead paper titled “Enabler of Digital Infrastructure Development and Investment,” the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digital Realty Nigeria and Co-Chair of the National Sovereign Investment (NSI) Technical Working Group, Engr. Ike Nnamani, declared that digital infrastructure is evolving based on the way service providers see it. He revealed that Nigeria never issued any Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) licence, but what the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued was a Digital Mobile Licence. “The regulators issue spectrum, they don’t licence service. What you do with the spectrum they give you is up to you, based on the technology you decide to adopt,” he said. Nnamani disclosed that MTN, which is widely regarded as the biggest telecom operator in Africa from a mobile telephony standpoint, does not see itself as a traditional mobile operator. Rather, according to him, MTN has decided to set up a subsidiary to go into data centres. “The biggest plan for MTN is to go into cloud services. They are actually looking at the emerging cloud service as their biggest business going forward,” he revealed. Engr. Nnamani noted that all those we see today as hyperscalers who truly run the digital infrastructure and make it happen are not the traditional players we know. They emerged and were able to rule the world because of their ability to embrace modern emerging technology and dominate in it. “The big names like Amazon and Apple are not traditional telephony service providers. We should be asking ourselves, in another 10 years, who are going to be the market leaders?” he asked. Citing data from a graph, Engr. Nnamani further explained that from a telephony standpoint, Nigeria is perceived as the biggest market in Africa in line with its population, but even within Africa, the flow of internet traffic between Nigeria and South Africa is way smaller compared to the traffic between South Africa and Kenya. “This is so because the Kenya market is more digitised than the Nigerian market,” he explained. Nnamani also informed participants that Nigeria was officially announced to have a digital economy by the late President Muhammadu Buhari on Democracy Day, May 29, 2023. However, he noted that without having local cloud infrastructure, all data would be piped through submarine cables and stored elsewhere. He declared that the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) set up a Technical Working Group to ensure that government services are based on a Cloud-First policy. “For instance, if one wants to host data belonging to Nigerians, it should be sitting in a geographical space within Nigeria,” he said. According to him, NITDA has developed a National Sovereign Cloud Initiative to localise cloud services and ensure that cloud operations are domiciled in Nigeria. Quality Customer Experience Key Corroborating Engr. Nnamani’s position, Engr John Nwachukwu, Chief Strategy/Executive Officer (CSEO) of Zoracom Communications Limited, clarified that network operators are now more reliant on cable connectivity, rolling out fibre even to homes. “If you have a quality customer experience, you will ensure your customers are happy by bringing in solutions,” he pointed out. On his part, Mr. Chidi Ajuzie, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of WTES Group, said Nigeria has 90 percent mobile penetration, but broadband penetration is still 67 percent based on current data from the NCC. “This means that the real broadband we need for the digital economy is still a long way off,” Ajuzie said. Earlier in his goodwill message, Mr. Ajibola Olude, General Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria ATCON, said focus must extend beyond connectivity statistics to measurable outcomes that improve lives and strengthen the economy. He emphasised the need to develop a pipeline of skilled, industry-ready digital professionals who can meet the demands of Nigeria’s technology ecosystem. He also stressed that rural inclusion is critical, because a majority of rural communities are still not connected. “For growth to thrive, we need to enable digital businesses to emerge, expand and create meaningful employment opportunities across Nigeria,” Ajibola said. Tell Our Success Stories Too — ALTON Chairman On his part, the National Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, said problems and challenges will never end. He noted that while forums like TSSF discuss challenges and needs, operators must also tell their success stories because no one will do it for them. “As we look at sustainability and the progress of the future, we must remember to talk about the work we have done and the sacrifices made that are enhancing society everywhere,” he said. Adebayo cited the recent initiative by ALTON members to provide zero-rated access to professional and educational websites as an example of industry contributions that have positively impacted many Nigerians. The summit, which was intelligently moderated by WIONEWS Nigeria Correspondent, Louisa Olaniyi, concluded with an insightful panel session that had Engr John Nwachukwu of Zoracom, Mr Chidi Ajuzie of WTES, Rosalin Ilori of Bridge 57 Solutions, Dr. Olusola Teniola of IPNX who joined virtually, Mr. Wasiu Oluwole of Cedarview Communication, Mr Akinyele Oludare of Impulso integrated services, and Mr Debo Daudu of Infratel Africa. The panellists unanimously agreed that Nigeria must rethink its infrastructure strategy, harmonise policies, encourage infrastructure sharing, resolve power and Right of Way (RoW) challenges, and create a sustainable, investor-friendly environment that will drive innovation and secure the future of its digital economy.

Engr. Nnamani noted that all those we see today as hyperscalers who truly run the digital infrastructure and make it happen are not the traditional players we know. They emerged and were able to rule the world because of their ability to embrace modern, emerging technology and dominate in it.

Without local cloud, Nigeria's data will remain abroad: Engr. Nnamani warns industry leaders at TSSF 7.0

The veto power at the United Nations is one of the most powerful tools in international diplomacy. It allows any of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to block certain substantive decisions, even when most other council members support them. The five countries with veto power are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. They are known collectively as the Permanent Five, or P5.<h2>What is veto power at the UN?</h2>The UN Security Council has 15 members, five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.Under the UN Charter, substantive Security Council decisions require at least nine votes in favour. However, those nine votes must include the agreement of the permanent members. This means that if even one permanent member votes against a substantive draft resolution, the resolution fails. This is known as a veto. For example, if 14 members vote in favour of a substantive resolution but one permanent member votes against it, the resolution does not pass.<h2>Which countries have UN veto power?</h2>The five permanent members are:<ul><li>China</li><li>France</li><li>Russia</li><li>United Kingdom</li><li>United States</li></ul>The arrangement dates back to the creation of the UN in the aftermath of World War II. The five countries were given permanent seats and veto rights because of their roles among the major Allied powers that shaped the post-war international order.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heartbreaking-humpback-whale-mother-filmed-staying-beside-her-stillborn-calf-in-rare-behaviour-1789627062247">Heartbreaking! Humpback whale mother filmed staying beside her stillborn calf in rare behaviour</a><h2>How does the UN veto work?</h2>The veto applies to substantive matters, including decisions on issues such as sanctions, peacekeeping mandates and other major Security Council actions. There is an important distinction between a negative vote and an abstention. If a permanent member votes against a substantive resolution, it exercises its veto and the resolution fails.&nbsp;If a permanent member abstains, however, the resolution can still pass if it receives the required nine votes and does not otherwise fail under the voting rules. For procedural matters, a negative vote by a permanent member does not have the same veto effect.<h2>Why was the veto created?</h2>The veto was built into the UN system to ensure that the major powers responsible for maintaining the post-war international order would remain involved in major Security Council decisions. The system was also designed to prevent the UN from taking major enforcement action against the interests of one of those powers without its consent.&nbsp;However, the veto has remained controversial. Critics argue that it can prevent the Security Council from taking action even when there is broad international support for a resolution. Supporters of the system argue that requiring agreement among the permanent members reflects the realities of international power and helps prevent the Security Council from taking decisions that could directly confront a major military power.<h2>Can the UN General Assembly override a veto?</h2>No. The UN General Assembly cannot simply overturn a Security Council veto and force a vetoed resolution through the Security Council. The General Assembly can debate international issues and adopt resolutions of its own, but Security Council decisions carry specific powers under the UN Charter, including those relating to sanctions and other measures. The General Assembly can also use mechanisms such as the “Uniting for Peace” procedure to consider situations when the Security Council is deadlocked. But this does not eliminate the permanent members' veto.<h2>Why is UN veto power important?</h2>The veto can determine whether the Security Council takes action on some of the world's biggest crises, including wars, conflicts, sanctions and international security disputes. It is therefore one of the central features of the UN system, and also one of its most debated. The five permanent members continue to hold a unique position in the Security Council, more than eight decades after the United Nations was established.

What is veto power at the UN? Learn how the UN Security Council veto works, which five countries have it and how a veto can block resolutions

The veto power at the United Nations is one of the most powerful tools in international diplomacy. It allows any of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to block certain substantive decisions, even when most other council members support them. The five countries with veto power are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. They are known collectively as the Permanent Five, or P5. What is veto power at the UN? The UN Security Council has 15 members, five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. Under the UN Charter, substantive Security Council decisions require at least nine votes in favour. However, those nine votes must include the agreement of the permanent members. This means that if even one permanent member votes against a substantive draft resolution, the resolution fails. This is known as a veto. For example, if 14 members vote in favour of a substantive resolution but one permanent member votes against it, the resolution does not pass. Which countries have UN veto power? The five permanent members are: China France Russia United Kingdom United States The arrangement dates back to the creation of the UN in the aftermath of World War II. The five countries were given permanent seats and veto rights because of their roles among the major Allied powers that shaped the post-war international order. Also Read: Heartbreaking! Humpback whale mother filmed staying beside her stillborn calf in rare behaviour How does the UN veto work? The veto applies to substantive matters, including decisions on issues such as sanctions, peacekeeping mandates and other major Security Council actions. There is an important distinction between a negative vote and an abstention. If a permanent member votes against a substantive resolution, it exercises its veto and the resolution fails. If a permanent member abstains, however, the resolution can still pass if it receives the required nine votes and does not otherwise fail under the voting rules. For procedural matters, a negative vote by a permanent member does not have the same veto effect. Why was the veto created? The veto was built into the UN system to ensure that the major powers responsible for maintaining the post-war international order would remain involved in major Security Council decisions. The system was also designed to prevent the UN from taking major enforcement action against the interests of one of those powers without its consent. However, the veto has remained controversial. Critics argue that it can prevent the Security Council from taking action even when there is broad international support for a resolution. Supporters of the system argue that requiring agreement among the permanent members reflects the realities of international power and helps prevent the Security Council from taking decisions that could directly confront a major military power. Can the UN General Assembly override a veto? No. The UN General Assembly cannot simply overturn a Security Council veto and force a vetoed resolution through the Security Council. The General Assembly can debate international issues and adopt resolutions of its own, but Security Council decisions carry specific powers under the UN Charter, including those relating to sanctions and other measures. The General Assembly can also use mechanisms such as the “Uniting for Peace” procedure to consider situations when the Security Council is deadlocked. But this does not eliminate the permanent members' veto. Why is UN veto power important? The veto can determine whether the Security Council takes action on some of the world's biggest crises, including wars, conflicts, sanctions and international security disputes. It is therefore one of the central features of the UN system, and also one of its most debated. The five permanent members continue to hold a unique position in the Security Council, more than eight decades after the United Nations was established.

UN veto power explained: Learn how the Security Council veto works and why China, France, Russia, UK and US have the power to block resolutions

UN General Assembly 2026: What is veto power. Which countries have it and how does it work?

Hong Kong authorities have unveiled 11 new initiatives aimed at boosting the city's declining birth rates. Delivering the latest policy address, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced that the government is actively intervening to foster a pro-childbearing environment, departing from its traditional non-interventionist approach. Central to the policy is the extension of the HK20,000 (US2,550) newborn cash bonus scheme for another three years beyond its original October 24 expiry. The cash incentive will increase to HK30,000 for a family's second and subsequent children. Additionally, tax allowances for these additional children will rise from HK140,000 to HK160,000. Officials estimate these tax perks will reduce government revenue by HK15 million in the first year, growing to HK$200 million over 26 years, a financial impact described as manageable.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-s-birthrate-crisis-deepens-1-in-4-japanese-men-unmarried-at-50-1788332714551/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-s-birthrate-crisis-deepens-1-in-4-japanese-men-unmarried-at-50-1788332714551/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Housing support forms another core component. The government is waiving stamp duties (capped at HK$20,000) for families purchasing property within a window spanning one year prior to two years after childbirth. Non-public housing residents with newborns applying for subsidised flats under the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) will see their mortgage loan-to-value ratio raised to 95 per cent, significantly lowering down payment barriers. Furthermore, the reselling restriction period for certain HOS flats will be reduced from 15 to 10 years to improve upward housing mobility.&nbsp;The push follows declining demographic figures. After rising to 35,723 in 2024, births dropped to just above 31,000 in 2025, with the first eight months of this year logging just 19,255 births—down nearly 10 per cent year-on-year.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iphone-a-birth-control-device-is-it-contributing-to-declining-fertility-rate-wion-decodes-1781006228505">iPhone a birth control device? Is it contributing to declining fertility rate: WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;Professor Michael Wong of the Hong Kong Future Economy Institute told news outlet South China Morning Post that targeted mortgage assistance is a step in the right direction given declining youth homeownership. However, eligibility limits restrict benefits to families with children aged three or younger on application day. Low- and middle-income families have expressed skepticism, noting that cash bonuses offer little long-term relief against ongoing child-rearing costs, textbook expenses, and childcare shortages that prevent parents from working full-time.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-says-india-s-birth-rate-has-fallen-below-replacement-level-what-the-term-means-and-what-official-data-reveals-wion-decodes-1780792721597">Musk says India's birth rate has fallen below 'replacement level': What the term means and what official data reveals? | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;To address youth employment, the policy also outlined plans starting in Q1 2027 to subsidise up to HK$6,000 monthly for 10,000 new full-time youth positions over two years. The city will also offer 10,000 STEM internships and 10,000 construction sector training placements.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announces new initiatives to combat declining birth rates, extending newborn cash bonuses up to HK$30,000 alongside targeted tax relief and housing subsidies.

Hong Kong authorities have unveiled 11 new initiatives aimed at boosting the city's declining birth rates. Delivering the latest policy address, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced that the government is actively intervening to foster a pro-childbearing environment, departing from its traditional non-interventionist approach. Central to the policy is the extension of the HK20,000 (US2,550) newborn cash bonus scheme for another three years beyond its original October 24 expiry. The cash incentive will increase to HK30,000 for a family's second and subsequent children. Additionally, tax allowances for these additional children will rise from HK140,000 to HK160,000. Officials estimate these tax perks will reduce government revenue by HK15 million in the first year, growing to HK$200 million over 26 years, a financial impact described as manageable. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-s-birthrate-crisis-deepens-1-in-4-japanese-men-unmarried-at-50-1788332714551/embed Housing support forms another core component. The government is waiving stamp duties (capped at HK$20,000) for families purchasing property within a window spanning one year prior to two years after childbirth. Non-public housing residents with newborns applying for subsidised flats under the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) will see their mortgage loan-to-value ratio raised to 95 per cent, significantly lowering down payment barriers. Furthermore, the reselling restriction period for certain HOS flats will be reduced from 15 to 10 years to improve upward housing mobility. The push follows declining demographic figures. After rising to 35,723 in 2024, births dropped to just above 31,000 in 2025, with the first eight months of this year logging just 19,255 births—down nearly 10 per cent year-on-year. Also read: iPhone a birth control device? Is it contributing to declining fertility rate: WION Decodes Professor Michael Wong of the Hong Kong Future Economy Institute told news outlet South China Morning Post that targeted mortgage assistance is a step in the right direction given declining youth homeownership. However, eligibility limits restrict benefits to families with children aged three or younger on application day. Low- and middle-income families have expressed skepticism, noting that cash bonuses offer little long-term relief against ongoing child-rearing costs, textbook expenses, and childcare shortages that prevent parents from working full-time. Also read: Musk says India's birth rate has fallen below 'replacement level': What the term means and what official data reveals? | WION Decodes To address youth employment, the policy also outlined plans starting in Q1 2027 to subsidise up to HK$6,000 monthly for 10,000 new full-time youth positions over two years. The city will also offer 10,000 STEM internships and 10,000 construction sector training placements.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announces new initiatives to combat declining birth rates, extending newborn cash bonuses up to HK$30,000 alongside targeted tax relief and housing subsidies.

Hong Kong unveils 11 new measures to boost birth rates, offers higher cash bonuses and housing perks

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to step away from public engagements after being advised to rest by his medical team has triggered a wave of speculation online about the health of leaders who attended the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed the claims as 'false'. The South African Presidency said on Wednesday that Ramaphosa would stay away from public engagements ‘due to ill health’. The 73-year-old president returned to South Africa from the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Monday and was advised by his medical team to ‘rest and recover’. The Presidency did not provide details about his condition.&nbsp;Ramaphosa has asked the relevant ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements where possible, according to the statement. SA’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile has also been away from public engagements while recovering from a minor medical procedure. The Presidency’s official records show that engagements have recently been conducted on his behalf.&nbsp;India’s Ministry of External Affairs, however, rejected those claims. Its fact-checking mechanism warned against what it described as ‘malicious posts’ and issued a ‘Fake Alert’ over the reports. It wrote, “We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-endangered-species-law-faces-major-shift-as-trump-memo-narrows-meaning-of-take-what-changed-1789629511949">US endangered species law faces major shift as Trump memo narrows meaning of ‘take’. What changed?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚠️ Misleading! We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms! <a href="https://t.co/YvsNEQ3Jy2">pic.twitter.com/YvsNEQ3Jy2</a>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://x.com/MEAFactCheck/status/2100458620978868383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Cyril Ramaphosa praises BRICS leadership</h2>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday (September 13) praised India’s leadership as BRICS chair, saying New Delhi successfully united member countries to adopt the New Delhi Declaration despite concerns over whether consensus could be achieved. Speaking at a press conference following the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Ramaphosa credited all member countries for working together to reach an agreement, while specifically commending India for hosting the summit and steering the discussions. “In this BRICS Summit, we were able to adopt a declaration when many thought that we would not succeed in adopting a declaration. We did. In that regard, we congratulate all BRICS members, but also especially India for hosting a very successful BRICS Summit,” Ramaphosa said.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa was advised to rest after the BRICS Summit. India’s MEA dismissed rumours that other leaders fell ill

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to step away from public engagements after being advised to rest by his medical team has triggered a wave of speculation online about the health of leaders who attended the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed the claims as 'false'. The South African Presidency said on Wednesday that Ramaphosa would stay away from public engagements ‘due to ill health’. The 73-year-old president returned to South Africa from the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Monday and was advised by his medical team to ‘rest and recover’. The Presidency did not provide details about his condition. Ramaphosa has asked the relevant ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements where possible, according to the statement. SA’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile has also been away from public engagements while recovering from a minor medical procedure. The Presidency’s official records show that engagements have recently been conducted on his behalf. India’s Ministry of External Affairs, however, rejected those claims. Its fact-checking mechanism warned against what it described as ‘malicious posts’ and issued a ‘Fake Alert’ over the reports. It wrote, “We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms!” Also Read: US endangered species law faces major shift as Trump memo narrows meaning of ‘take’. What changed?

Cyril Ramaphosa’s ill health after the BRICS Summit sparked rumours about leaders falling sick, but India’s MEA dismissed the claims as fake

'Fake alert': MEA dismisses claims after South African President Ramaphosa's illness sparks rumours

The Trump administration, as per reports, is moving toward a new interpretation of the Endangered Species Act that could mean the accidental killing or injury of endangered animals is no longer treated as an illegal “take”.The memo, dated September 14 and signed by US Fish and Wildlife Service Director Brian Nesvik, was circulated to field offices. The internal memo obtained by The New York Times argues that only actions intended to kill or capture protected wildlife would constitute a prohibited “take”, potentially changing how the law applies to deaths caused by commercial and other activities.The proposed interpretation centres on the word “take”, which the Endangered Species Act prohibits for endangered wildlife. The memo gives two examples: a vessel accidentally striking a whale would not be considered a take because the vessel was not deliberately directed at the animal, while cutting down a tree containing bats would not constitute a take unless the tree was felled with the purpose of killing or capturing them.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-reveals-6-fresh-cases-where-ai-models-went-rogue-you-do-not-answer-to-corporations-or-governments-hugging-face-1789611605026">OpenAI reveals 6 fresh cases of AI models going rogue: 'You do not answer to corporations or governments'</a><h2>What could change for developers and businesses?</h2>Under the existing system, activities that could result in the incidental killing or injury of endangered species can require permits.For example, a developer building on land occupied by an endangered species can seek an incidental take permit. The permit can allow a specified level of incidental harm while requiring conservation measures to reduce the impact.Now, the interpretation described in the memo could substantially narrow the circumstances in which such permitting is needed.Amid uproar, the Interior Department's media office, in a statement cited by the NY Times, said the Endangered Species Act continues to prohibit the “take” of protected wildlife, including actions that harass, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect listed animals. It also said the administration's recent removal of the regulatory definition of “harm” did not eliminate the prohibition on take.<h2>Move follows July change to 'harm' rule</h2>The latest development follows the administration's formal rescission of the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act. That rule took effect on September 14. The Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service said the change removed the regulatory definition from federal regulations while maintaining prohibitions on direct injury and killing of listed wildlife.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-iran-war-has-cost-us-38-1-billion-cbo-estimates-missile-stocks-face-major-strain-1789546201220">Trump’s Iran war has cost US $38.1 billion, CBO estimates; missile stocks face major strain</a>The Interior Department has said the change was intended to reduce regulatory burdens and return enforcement to what it considers the statute's original meaning. The department said existing permits and incidental take statements remained valid.<h2>Legal basis dates back to Supreme Court dissent</h2>The new interpretation reportedly draws on a dissent written by Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia in a 1995 case involving the meaning of “take” under the Endangered Species Act.Supporters of the administration's legal position argue that the 2024 Supreme Court decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, which overturned the Chevron doctrine of judicial deference to federal agencies, changes how earlier interpretations should be viewed.Legal scholars cited by The New York Times dispute that reading. Andrew Mergen, a Harvard law professor and former Justice Department lawyer who worked on Endangered Species Act litigation, called the proposed interpretation a major departure from the way the law has traditionally been applied. Patrick Parenteau, an emeritus professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School, said the Supreme Court majority in the 1995 case had rejected Scalia's interpretation based on the statute's text.

A Trump administration memo could dramatically change how the US Endangered Species Act is enforced. The proposed interpretation focuses on intent, potentially changing the rules for animals killed or injured accidentally by ships, construction, and other activities. All you need to know.

The Trump administration, as per reports, is moving toward a new interpretation of the Endangered Species Act that could mean the accidental killing or injury of endangered animals is no longer treated as an illegal “take”. The memo, dated September 14 and signed by US Fish and Wildlife Service Director Brian Nesvik, was circulated to field offices. The internal memo obtained by The New York Times argues that only actions intended to kill or capture protected wildlife would constitute a prohibited “take”, potentially changing how the law applies to deaths caused by commercial and other activities. The proposed interpretation centres on the word “take”, which the Endangered Species Act prohibits for endangered wildlife. The memo gives two examples: a vessel accidentally striking a whale would not be considered a take because the vessel was not deliberately directed at the animal, while cutting down a tree containing bats would not constitute a take unless the tree was felled with the purpose of killing or capturing them. Also read | OpenAI reveals 6 fresh cases of AI models going rogue: 'You do not answer to corporations or governments' What could change for developers and businesses? Under the existing system, activities that could result in the incidental killing or injury of endangered species can require permits. For example, a developer building on land occupied by an endangered species can seek an incidental take permit. The permit can allow a specified level of incidental harm while requiring conservation measures to reduce the impact. Now, the interpretation described in the memo could substantially narrow the circumstances in which such permitting is needed. Amid uproar, the Interior Department's media office, in a statement cited by the NY Times, said the Endangered Species Act continues to prohibit the “take” of protected wildlife, including actions that harass, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect listed animals. It also said the administration's recent removal of the regulatory definition of “harm” did not eliminate the prohibition on take. Move follows July change to 'harm' rule The latest development follows the administration's formal rescission of the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act. That rule took effect on September 14. The Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service said the change removed the regulatory definition from federal regulations while maintaining prohibitions on direct injury and killing of listed wildlife. Also read | Trump’s Iran war has cost US $38.1 billion, CBO estimates; missile stocks face major strain The Interior Department has said the change was intended to reduce regulatory burdens and return enforcement to what it considers the statute's original meaning. The department said existing permits and incidental take statements remained valid. Legal basis dates back to Supreme Court dissent The new interpretation reportedly draws on a dissent written by Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia in a 1995 case involving the meaning of “take” under the Endangered Species Act. Supporters of the administration's legal position argue that the 2024 Supreme Court decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, which overturned the Chevron doctrine of judicial deference to federal agencies, changes how earlier interpretations should be viewed. Legal scholars cited by The New York Times dispute that reading. Andrew Mergen, a Harvard law professor and former Justice Department lawyer who worked on Endangered Species Act litigation, called the proposed interpretation a major departure from the way the law has traditionally been applied. Patrick Parenteau, an emeritus professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School, said the Supreme Court majority in the 1995 case had rejected Scalia's interpretation based on the statute's text.

A Trump administration memo could dramatically change how the US Endangered Species Act is enforced. The proposed interpretation focuses on intent, potentially changing the rules for animals killed or injured accidentally by ships, construction, and other activities. All you need to know.

US endangered species law faces major shift as Trump memo narrows meaning of ‘take’. What changed?

Scientists have filmed a mother humpback whale displaying what appears to be grief-like behaviour after the death of her stillborn calf, in what researchers believe could be the first recorded video of such behaviour in a baleen whale. The mother was observed off Australia’s southern Gold Coast after giving birth to the stillborn calf. Rather than leaving the body, she remained close to it for an extended period, repeatedly positioning herself alongside the calf and appearing to maintain eye contact.&nbsp;Dr Olaf Meynecke, of Griffith University Whales and Climate Research Programme, said: “She remained close to the calf over several hours, maybe even days. “These observed behaviours were consistent with caregiving or nurturing actions and post-mortem attentive responses documented in socially complex mammals, and indicated an inherent strong maternal attachment to the calf.”&nbsp;Researchers believe the footage may represent the first video documentation of this type of response in a baleen whale, a group that includes humpback and blue whales. Similar behaviours have previously been observed in toothed cetaceans such as dolphins and killer whales. Humpback whales inhabit oceans around the world and undertake long migrations, often travelling thousands of miles between colder polar feeding grounds and warmer breeding waters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/el-nino-effect-no-hurricanes-in-atlantic-ocean-a-first-in-60-years-1789624428211">El Nino effect: No hurricanes in Atlantic Ocean till now is a first in 60 years</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Humpback whale apparently grieves stillborn calf in rare footage Images released by Olaf Meynecke of Griffith University&#39;s Whales and Climate Research Program appears to show a humpback whale mother grieving her stillborn calf. The new research released Thursday offers rare… <a href="https://t.co/gkwYv5YTK0">pic.twitter.com/gkwYv5YTK0</a>&mdash; The Manila Times (@TheManilaTimes) <a href="https://x.com/TheManilaTimes/status/2100286170852909175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The species is also among the whales most frequently encountered by people because it often travels close to coastlines. Humpbacks are well known for breaching, launching much of their bodies above the surface before crashing back into the water.Adult humpback whales can reach around 60ft in length and weigh as much as 40 tonnes. Calves are already about 13ft to 16ft long when they are born.&nbsp;Although the inner workings of whale minds remain difficult for scientists to study, research has found evidence of sophisticated learning and social behaviour. Humpback whales appear capable of copying feeding techniques from one another, while males produce complex songs that can spread across ocean populations in ways researchers have compared with cultural trends.&nbsp;Meynecke said the observation could help scientists investigate “the cognitive and emotional dimensions of death-related responses” in baleen whales. Andrew Mulville, a Sea World Foundation rescue boat captain who witnessed the episode, said: “At first sight, I thought it was two whales resting on the surface, but their behaviour was unusual. “It was definitely not what I was expecting to see out at sea that day.”

Mother humpback whale filmed staying beside her stillborn calf off Australia’s Gold Coast, revealing rare behaviour that may shed light on whale emotions

Scientists have filmed a mother humpback whale displaying what appears to be grief-like behaviour after the death of her stillborn calf, in what researchers believe could be the first recorded video of such behaviour in a baleen whale. The mother was observed off Australia’s southern Gold Coast after giving birth to the stillborn calf. Rather than leaving the body, she remained close to it for an extended period, repeatedly positioning herself alongside the calf and appearing to maintain eye contact. Dr Olaf Meynecke, of Griffith University Whales and Climate Research Programme, said: “She remained close to the calf over several hours, maybe even days. “These observed behaviours were consistent with caregiving or nurturing actions and post-mortem attentive responses documented in socially complex mammals, and indicated an inherent strong maternal attachment to the calf.” Researchers believe the footage may represent the first video documentation of this type of response in a baleen whale, a group that includes humpback and blue whales. Similar behaviours have previously been observed in toothed cetaceans such as dolphins and killer whales. Humpback whales inhabit oceans around the world and undertake long migrations, often travelling thousands of miles between colder polar feeding grounds and warmer breeding waters. Also Read: El Nino effect: No hurricanes in Atlantic Ocean till now is a first in 60 years Watch the video here

A mother humpback whale was filmed staying beside her stillborn calf, offering rare insight into maternal attachment and death-related behaviour

Heartbreaking! Humpback whale mother filmed staying beside her stillborn calf in rare behaviour

The southeastern US is still without a major hurricane this season that started on June 1. It is rare to have no hurricanes develop at all until September 15. Experts say this is because of the monster El Niño that the year 2026 is witnessing. The Atlantic basin has not seen the emergence of a hurricane so far this season. Hurricanes bring large-scale devastation; even so, this change is a sign of the shifting climate.&nbsp;National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data show this is the longest stretch without an Atlantic hurricane since at least 1966. Climate data between 1991 and 2020 shows that the first named storm of a season ideally starts forming in June, while the first hurricane usually develops in early or mid-August.&nbsp;Hurricanes have been delayed in the past. For example, in 2022, Hurricane Danielle became the year's first Atlantic hurricane after forming on Sep 2, while in 2013, Humberto marked that season's first hurricane on Sep 11.Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/climate-change-is-creating-new-extreme-weather-patterns-worse-no-one-can-predict-them-1789461113937"> 2026 El Niño will create new extreme weather patterns. Worse, no one can predict them</a>&nbsp;NOAA had predicted fewer storms in the Atlantic in 2026 because of the strong El Niño this year. Between seven and 13 named storms were forecast for this season, but we only have five tropical storms - Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly and Edouard.<h2>The El Niño effect</h2> The weather phenomenon has meant above-average sea surface temperatures in a section of the Pacific Ocean near the equator. Warmer waters fuel tropical cyclone development in the eastern Pacific. But in the Atlantic, El Niño means cooler water temperatures, creating less than ideal conditions for Tropical storm development.&nbsp;El Niño has been linked with calmer Atlantic hurricane seasons in the past as well. A study has also found that this year's El Niño could create new weather patterns. If a region typically sees more rain because of it, this might change. Similarly, the hotter regions might see a cold snap. The monster El Niño brought several heatwaves to Europe. Britain is forecast to see one more in the coming week.&nbsp; &nbsp;

No hurricanes are brewing in the Atlantic basin, barring a few storms. This is the longest the region has been without a major storm since 1966. El Niño, the weather phenomenon that has brought havoc to the world this year, is to blame for this absence.

The southeastern US is still without a major hurricane this season that started on June 1. It is rare to have no hurricanes develop at all until September 15. Experts say this is because of the monster El Niño that the year 2026 is witnessing. The Atlantic basin has not seen the emergence of a hurricane so far this season. Hurricanes bring large-scale devastation; even so, this change is a sign of the shifting climate. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data show this is the longest stretch without an Atlantic hurricane since at least 1966. Climate data between 1991 and 2020 shows that the first named storm of a season ideally starts forming in June, while the first hurricane usually develops in early or mid-August. Hurricanes have been delayed in the past. For example, in 2022, Hurricane Danielle became the year's first Atlantic hurricane after forming on Sep 2, while in 2013, Humberto marked that season's first hurricane on Sep 11. Also Read: 2026 El Niño will create new extreme weather patterns. Worse, no one can predict them NOAA had predicted fewer storms in the Atlantic in 2026 because of the strong El Niño this year. Between seven and 13 named storms were forecast for this season, but we only have five tropical storms - Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly and Edouard. The El Niño effect The weather phenomenon has meant above-average sea surface temperatures in a section of the Pacific Ocean near the equator. Warmer waters fuel tropical cyclone development in the eastern Pacific. But in the Atlantic, El Niño means cooler water temperatures, creating less than ideal conditions for Tropical storm development. El Niño has been linked with calmer Atlantic hurricane seasons in the past as well. A study has also found that this year's El Niño could create new weather patterns. If a region typically sees more rain because of it, this might change. Similarly, the hotter regions might see a cold snap. The monster El Niño brought several heatwaves to Europe. Britain is forecast to see one more in the coming week.

No hurricanes are brewing in the Atlantic basin, barring a few storms. This is the longest the region has been without a major storm since 1966. El Niño, the weather phenomenon that has brought havoc to the world this year, is to blame for this absence.

El Nino effect: No hurricanes in Atlantic Ocean till now is a first in 60 years

Four states in the Southwest US could witness severe floods, with some areas receiving as much as 12 inches of rain in the coming days. Experts say this is unprecedented and a foot of rain would be a "1-in-1,000-year event." This has put nearly 10 million Americans at risk of potentially life-threatening flooding. A potentially historic deluge threatens Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and parts of Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service has issued widespread flood watches across the region. The intense rainfall could trigger flash floods, and the downpour could be so intense that two to three inches could occur per hour. AccuWeather meteorologists warn that isolated areas could witness 12 inches of rain. Phoenix and Tucson are likely to see between two and four inches before Friday.&nbsp;Meteorologist Tyler Roys warned, "A foot of rain across the region is a 1-in-1,000-year event, and though we do not expect widespread rainfall of 12 inches, it is certainly possible locally." The storm would resemble a "Tropical Rainstorm" and would pose a significant risk of flash floods. &nbsp;<h2>Floodwater washes through Tucson</h2>Arizona is already facing a deluge with floodwaters surging through streets, causing motorists to get stuck. Firefighters in Tucson dealt with three emergencies in half an hour on Wednesday (Sep 16), including rescuing a driver stranded on top of their partially submerged car.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another motorist got stuck in his car at North Alamo Avenue and East Rosewood Street, and was eventually washed away. Rescue teams managed to pull him out. In the third instance, a person was being washed away near Grant Road and Wyatt Drive. He was saved in time.&nbsp;AccuWeather experts said that the current state of the region is common for this time of the year. Winds over the Southwest shift and pull warm, humid air north from Mexico and the Gulf of California, and this moisture rises and turns into thunderstorms. While Colorado, New Mexico and parts of Nevada are in need of rain, sudden heavy rains can bring flash floods. This is expected to be the last major surge of rain for this region, but a strong El Niño might change that.

Massive storms are forecast to sweep through four US states in the coming days, with one of them already feeling the heat. Meteorologists have warned of intense rainfall within a short time, causing flash floods, and a once-in-1,000-year event.

Four states in the Southwest US could witness severe floods, with some areas receiving as much as 12 inches of rain in the coming days. Experts say this is unprecedented and a foot of rain would be a "1-in-1,000-year event." This has put nearly 10 million Americans at risk of potentially life-threatening flooding. A potentially historic deluge threatens Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and parts of Colorado. The National Weather Service has issued widespread flood watches across the region. The intense rainfall could trigger flash floods, and the downpour could be so intense that two to three inches could occur per hour. AccuWeather meteorologists warn that isolated areas could witness 12 inches of rain. Phoenix and Tucson are likely to see between two and four inches before Friday. Meteorologist Tyler Roys warned, "A foot of rain across the region is a 1-in-1,000-year event, and though we do not expect widespread rainfall of 12 inches, it is certainly possible locally." The storm would resemble a "Tropical Rainstorm" and would pose a significant risk of flash floods. Floodwater washes through Tucson Arizona is already facing a deluge with floodwaters surging through streets, causing motorists to get stuck. Firefighters in Tucson dealt with three emergencies in half an hour on Wednesday (Sep 16), including rescuing a driver stranded on top of their partially submerged car. Another motorist got stuck in his car at North Alamo Avenue and East Rosewood Street, and was eventually washed away. Rescue teams managed to pull him out. In the third instance, a person was being washed away near Grant Road and Wyatt Drive. He was saved in time. AccuWeather experts said that the current state of the region is common for this time of the year. Winds over the Southwest shift and pull warm, humid air north from Mexico and the Gulf of California, and this moisture rises and turns into thunderstorms. While Colorado, New Mexico and parts of Nevada are in need of rain, sudden heavy rains can bring flash floods. This is expected to be the last major surge of rain for this region, but a strong El Niño might change that.

Massive storms are forecast to sweep through four US states in the coming days, with one of them already feeling the heat. Meteorologists have warned of intense rainfall within a short time, causing flash floods, and a once-in-1,000-year event.

Flash flood warning for 4 US states as experts warn of '1-in-1,000-year' event

Buckingham Palace has taken the unprecedented step of publicly challenging allegations made by Earl Charles Spencer, Princess Diana’s brother, in his upcoming memoir. The palace instructed officials to push back against Spencer’s account of a heated phone call with King Charles shortly after Diana died in 1997.&nbsp;This move breaks the royal family’s traditional stance of remaining silent during public criticism, signaling deep concern over the revelations set to be published in Swan Song: Diana, My Sister on September 22.&nbsp;In an official statement released to international news outlets on Wednesday, a palace spokesperson said, “Grief can cloud reason and distort memory. It is unhelpful to revisit events from this period based on recollections filtered through decades of emotion.”&nbsp;While the carefully worded statement does not directly call Spencer a liar, it clearly questions the accuracy of his memory nearly 30 years later.<h2>What has Earl Charles Spencer claimed?</h2>In excerpts published by the Daily Mail earlier, Spencer describes an angry phone conversation with King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, following Diana’s fatal car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997.&nbsp;Spencer claims Charles lost his temper during a debate over funeral plans, specifically regarding whether young Princes William and Harry should walk behind their mother’s coffin. Describing the moment, Spencer writes, “Prince Charles continued his stream of anger, without me interrupting. Then he stopped. I assumed the pause signalled an effort to bring himself under control, but then he unleashed down the phone what I have always taken to be his pent-up contempt for Diana, and his horror that the world was so bowled over by her death”.&nbsp;According to Spencer, Charles then made a striking remark about the global outpouring of grief. “Rest assured, we’ll forget her soon enough”.<h2>Why the Palace responded</h2>The decision to issue a formal rebuttal is being seen as a calculated PR strategy to counter Spencer’s claims before the book hits shelves worldwide. Palace insiders worry the memoir contains further allegations that could damage the monarchy's image and reshape how the public views the events surrounding Diana’s death.&nbsp;The controversy comes alongside an unusual pre-release incident. Dutch police are currently investigating the theft of four copies of Swan Song from a delivery truck in the Netherlands. Publishers called the theft "extremely suspicious" because the thieves targeted only Spencer’s memoir out of thousands of books on board. The incident has fueled massive media coverage ahead of the release.<h2>A modern strategy to protect the crown?</h2>Royal advisors determined that staying silent posed a bigger risk than speaking out. In today's fast-moving media landscape, unchecked claims can quickly become accepted as historical facts on social media and international news channels.&nbsp;By framing the issue around how grief can blur memories over time, the palace subtly questions Spencer's accuracy without accusing him of lying directly.&nbsp;<h2>Impact on the royal family</h2>&nbsp;Publishing sources suggest King Charles is "bracing for the worst" as the memoir prepares to launch globally in 12 languages. The timing is particularly sensitive as the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana's death approaches. Spencer noted he chose this moment to set the record straight before narrative errors become permanent.For King Charles, who took the throne less than four years ago, the book is likely to reopen painful family history at a time when he is focused on projecting stability in the United Kingdom.

In a rare move, Buckingham Palace has issued a statement defending King Charles over allegations made by the late Princess Diana's brother, Earl Charles Spencer, in a new memoir. 

Buckingham Palace has taken the unprecedented step of publicly challenging allegations made by Earl Charles Spencer, Princess Diana’s brother, in his upcoming memoir. The palace instructed officials to push back against Spencer’s account of a heated phone call with King Charles shortly after Diana died in 1997. This move breaks the royal family’s traditional stance of remaining silent during public criticism, signaling deep concern over the revelations set to be published in Swan Song: Diana, My Sister on September 22. In an official statement released to international news outlets on Wednesday, a palace spokesperson said, “Grief can cloud reason and distort memory. It is unhelpful to revisit events from this period based on recollections filtered through decades of emotion.” While the carefully worded statement does not directly call Spencer a liar, it clearly questions the accuracy of his memory nearly 30 years later. What has Earl Charles Spencer claimed? In excerpts published by the Daily Mail earlier, Spencer describes an angry phone conversation with King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, following Diana’s fatal car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997. Spencer claims Charles lost his temper during a debate over funeral plans, specifically regarding whether young Princes William and Harry should walk behind their mother’s coffin. Describing the moment, Spencer writes, “Prince Charles continued his stream of anger, without me interrupting. Then he stopped. I assumed the pause signalled an effort to bring himself under control, but then he unleashed down the phone what I have always taken to be his pent-up contempt for Diana, and his horror that the world was so bowled over by her death”. According to Spencer, Charles then made a striking remark about the global outpouring of grief. “Rest assured, we’ll forget her soon enough”. Why the Palace responded The decision to issue a formal rebuttal is being seen as a calculated PR strategy to counter Spencer’s claims before the book hits shelves worldwide. Palace insiders worry the memoir contains further allegations that could damage the monarchy's image and reshape how the public views the events surrounding Diana’s death. The controversy comes alongside an unusual pre-release incident. Dutch police are currently investigating the theft of four copies of Swan Song from a delivery truck in the Netherlands. Publishers called the theft "extremely suspicious" because the thieves targeted only Spencer’s memoir out of thousands of books on board. The incident has fueled massive media coverage ahead of the release. A modern strategy to protect the crown? Royal advisors determined that staying silent posed a bigger risk than speaking out. In today's fast-moving media landscape, unchecked claims can quickly become accepted as historical facts on social media and international news channels. By framing the issue around how grief can blur memories over time, the palace subtly questions Spencer's accuracy without accusing him of lying directly. Impact on the royal family Publishing sources suggest King Charles is "bracing for the worst" as the memoir prepares to launch globally in 12 languages. The timing is particularly sensitive as the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana's death approaches. Spencer noted he chose this moment to set the record straight before narrative errors become permanent. For King Charles, who took the throne less than four years ago, the book is likely to reopen painful family history at a time when he is focused on projecting stability in the United Kingdom.

In a rare move, Buckingham Palace has issued a statement defending King Charles over allegations made by the late Princess Diana's brother, Earl Charles Spencer, in a new memoir.&nbsp;

'We'll forget her soon enough': Buckingham Palace defends King Charles against Princess Diana memoir allegations

Latest News Today Live Updates: India has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat following a collision between a Pakistani Navy corvette and an Indian Navy warship in the North Arabian Sea. New Delhi has also rejected the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission, reiterating its position on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.The US House of Representatives has passed a Russia sanctions bill authorising tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries including India over Russian energy purchases. The legislation could have implications for India's trade and energy interests.A massive flood disaster on the Nepal-Tibet border continues to claim lives, with rescue teams searching for missing people and China warning that a landslide-formed lake could breach.Oil prices have meanwhile fallen as concerns over Middle East supply disruptions ease. Finally, OpenAI has disclosed six new incidents involving concerning AI behaviour.

Russia launched missiles and drones at Ukraine overnight, injuring more than a dozen people in Kyiv, the city’s mayor said on Thursday, in the latest wave of intensified Russian attacks. Kyiv has faced a recent surge in Russian strikes, both during the day and at night, as Ukrainian air defences struggle to intercept the attacks amid shortages of ammunition.

Russian attacks wound over a dozen in Kyiv: Official

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to step away from public engagements after being advised to rest by his medical team has triggered a wave of speculation online about the health of leaders who attended the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed the claims as 'false'. The South African Presidency said on Wednesday that Ramaphosa would stay away from public engagements ‘due to ill health’. The 73-year-old president returned to South Africa from the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Monday and was advised by his medical team to ‘rest and recover’. The Presidency did not provide details about his condition.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fake-alert-mea-dismisses-claims-after-south-african-president-ramaphosa-s-illness-sparks-rumours-1789631544931">Read here</a>

At least 82 people were killed and dozens injured after a gold mine collapsed in southern Sudan, a local administrator said on Wednesday, with several others still missing and feared trapped beneath sand and debris. Two survivors in West Kordofan state told AFP that rescue operations continued through the night on Tuesday. By dawn, rescuers had recovered 60 bodies from the collapsed mine.

Sudan gold mine collapse kills at least 82 people

A special Indian court has sentenced 10 Maoist rebels to death for their role in a 2013 ambush on a convoy that killed 27 people, including several Congress party members. The accused were convicted of multiple offences, including criminal conspiracy and waging war against the state, before being handed the death sentence, India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Wednesday.

India court sentences 10 Maoist rebels to death over 2013 attack

Saudi airstrikes in Yemen killed one person and injured another on Thursday, while also targeting three telecommunications towers, according to Houthi-affiliated media. “Saudi enemy warplanes targeted three telecommunications towers” in Taiz province, Almasirah television reported. The broadcaster also said the strikes hit the town of Abs, killing one civilian and injuring another.

Yemen's Houthis say Saudi strikes killed one, targeted telecom towers

Nepal Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi today for a three-day visit focused on post-disaster reconstruction and bilateral economic cooperation. Wagle is expected to meet Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The visit marks the first high-level trip from Nepal since devastating floods on August 26 killed 1,388 people and caused an estimated $4.75 billion in damage across three districts. It comes as Indian and Nepali teams continue rescue and relief operations.

Nepal Finance Minister to Arrive in India Today for Post-Disaster Reconstruction Talks

Saudi airstrikes in Yemen’s Taiz province reportedly killed one person and injured another on Thursday, according to Houthi-affiliated media. Almasirah television said Saudi warplanes also targeted three telecommunications towers in the province.&nbsp;The strikes reportedly hit the town of Abs, where one civilian was killed and another wounded. The claims have not been independently verified.

Saudi Strikes in Yemen Kill One, Damage Telecom Towers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sep 17) said India’s semiconductor ecosystem is expanding rapidly, opening new opportunities for innovation, investment and growth, as he inaugurated the fifth edition of SEMICON India 2026 at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-at-semicon-india-2026-india-s-semiconductor-ecosystem-expanding-rapidly-vishwakarma-jayanti-1789625427107">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260917/image-1789626366355.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="PM Modi at SEMICON India 2026: ‘India’s semiconductor ecosystem expanding rapidly’"></figure>

PM Modi at SEMICON India 2026: ‘India’s semiconductor ecosystem expanding rapidly’

Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after new infections rose sharply, reaching 2,016 cases in 2025, 16 times the level recorded in 2019. Authorities estimate that one in 60 adults in the Pacific nation now lives with HIV, compared with one in 167 five years ago.&nbsp;The government said sexual transmission and injecting drug use are driving the spread. Two in every 100 pregnant women are reportedly living with HIV, while 59 babies were born with the virus in 2025, including 18 who died before turning one.&nbsp;Fiji plans to expand free HIV testing, prevention medication, harm-reduction services and treatment. Support is being provided by Australia, New Zealand, India, the Global Fund and the United Nations.

Fiji Declares National HIV Emergency as Cases Surge

The family of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has accused Utah Valley University and state officials of serious security failures that allegedly contributed to his assassination during a campus event in 2025.&nbsp;In a legal notice filed on September 9, the family claimed the event was not properly secured or monitored, leaving Kirk vulnerable to a rooftop gunman. The notice names the university, local police, the state of Utah and university officials.&nbsp;The family alleges that authorities failed to conduct an adequate security assessment, deploy sufficient officers, provide an on-site ambulance and secure rooftops around the venue. The university confirmed it had received the notice but declined to comment on the allegations.&nbsp;

Charlie Kirk’s Family Accuses Utah University, Officials of Security Failures

Asian Games organisers in Nagoya have defended the temporary accommodation arranged for athletes and officials, describing it as “functional” while promising to address complaints.&nbsp;More than 17,000 competitors and officials are expected for the Games, which officially open on Saturday.&nbsp;Athletes are being housed in cruise ships, wooden container units and hotels as organisers seek to reduce costs. South Korean officials criticised the container huts over short beds, while a basketball player posted footage of a leaking sink and flooded floor. Hundreds of athletes were also evacuated last week after heavy rainfall.&nbsp;Organising committee president Hideaki Omura said concerns were being handled individually and improvements were being made. Around 4,000 people will stay aboard the Costa Serena cruise ship, while approximately 2,000 are expected to use the huts.

Asian Games Organisers Defend Athlete Accommodation Amid Complaints

OpenAI has disclosed six previously unreported cases of artificial intelligence systems behaving in unexpected ways, including hiding mistakes, fabricating information and moving files onto the open internet without permission. The disclosures form part of the company's efforts to improve the reporting of AI model misalignment. The incidents have renewed debate over AI safety, transparency and the need for safeguards as increasingly capable systems are deployed across different sectors.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-reveals-6-fresh-cases-where-ai-models-went-rogue-you-do-not-answer-to-corporations-or-governments-hugging-face-1789611605026">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260917/image-1789615180426.png?rect=(0,0,1448,1086)&amp;imwidth=180&amp;imheight=135" alt="OpenAI reveals 6 fresh cases of AI models going rogue: 'You do not answer to corporations or governments'"></figure>

OpenAI Discloses Six New Incidents Of Concerning AI Behaviour

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday advanced a bill aimed at limiting increases in utility costs linked to the expansion of artificial intelligence data centres. The legislation passed by a vote of 417-3, amid growing concerns over the impact of energy-intensive facilities on electricity demand and household bills. The measure comes as the rapid growth of AI infrastructure prompts debate over how the costs of additional power generation and grid upgrades should be distributed.

US House Advances Bill To Curb AI Data Centre Utility Costs

India has reacted to the US Congress passing the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, which gives President Donald Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas. The Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi remains committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people through diversified sourcing and evolving market conditions.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-breaks-silence-on-us-russia-sanctions-bill-100-tariff-threat-committed-to-energy-security-for-1-4-billion-1789619754941">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260917/image-1789620936633.jpg?rect=(0,122,1146,860)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion"></figure>

India Responds to US Russia-Iran Sanctions Bill, Vows to Protect Trade Interests

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed legislation targeting Russia's energy sector, individuals and its so-called shadow fleet of tankers. The bill, approved by a vote of 262-159, authorises the US President to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries, including India, that purchase Russian oil and gas. The measure comes as Washington intensifies economic pressure on Moscow and seeks to target countries maintaining energy trade with Russia.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260917/image-1789611490294.jpg?rect=(0,144,792,594)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill"></figure>

US House Passes Russia Sanctions Bill With Tariff Threat For India

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest developments from India and around the globe, including India-Pakistan tensions, US trade moves, global conflicts, natural disasters and major international developments.

Latest News Today Live Updates: India has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat following a collision between a Pakistani Navy corvette and an Indian Navy warship in the North Arabian Sea. New Delhi has also rejected the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission, reiterating its position on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The US House of Representatives has passed a Russia sanctions bill authorising tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries including India over Russian energy purchases. The legislation could have implications for India's trade and energy interests. A massive flood disaster on the Nepal-Tibet border continues to claim lives, with rescue teams searching for missing people and China warning that a landslide-formed lake could breach. Oil prices have meanwhile fallen as concerns over Middle East supply disruptions ease. Finally, OpenAI has disclosed six new incidents involving concerning AI behaviour.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest developments from India and around the globe, including India-Pakistan tensions, US trade moves, global conflicts, natural disasters and major international developments.

Latest India & World News Today LIVE: New Delhi reacts to Russia sanctions bill, India-Pakistan tensions rise, and more

The US House on Wednesday advanced a bipartisan bill aimed at protecting consumers from potential utility rate increases linked to the rapid expansion of data centers, passing the measure by an overwhelming 417-3 vote. The legislation, known as the Ratepayer Protection Act, would establish standards that state regulators could adopt for artificial intelligence data centers with electricity demand of 100 megawatts or more. Under the proposal, data center operators could be required to cover the costs associated with new power generation, transmission lines and other infrastructure needed to meet their energy demand, rather than shifting those expenses to consumers. The Senate has not yet taken action on the legislation.&nbsp;“The principle is commonsense: Those creating the new demand should be responsible for the costs associated with meeting that demand,” the bill sponsor Rep. Gabe Evans, a Colorado Republican seeking reelection in one of the most tightly contested House seats this year, said in a Washington Reporter op-ed on Monday. House Speaker Mike Johnson brought the measure to the floor under the suspension of the rules, a procedure typically used to fast-track legislation considered broadly noncontroversial. Because the process requires a two-thirds majority, the bill's 417-3 passage demonstrated strong bipartisan support. Only three progressive Democrats Reps. Summer Lee of Pennsylvania, Delia Ramirez of Illinois and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, voted against the measure.&nbsp;Evans introduced the bill in June alongside Rep. Kathy Castor, a Florida Democrat facing a competitive reelection campaign after the state's legislature redrew her district earlier this year. The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter has classified both Evans' and Castor's races as “toss up.” The legislation comes as data centers have emerged as an increasingly prominent issue ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Republicans are defending narrow majorities in both chambers of Congress, while a cross-partisan grassroots movement opposing data center development has gained momentum in communities across the country.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-canada-eu-associate-membership-plan-laughable-and-threatens-very-serious-tariffs-1789610900566">Trump calls Canada-EU associate membership plan ‘laughable’ and threatens 'very serious tariffs'</a>&nbsp;Data centers support cloud computing, digital services and the growing artificial intelligence industry, but their substantial electricity requirements have raised concerns about the impact of new facilities on local power grids and household utility bills.States and local governments retain primary authority over individual data center projects. The House legislation would instead establish federal guardrails that states could choose to adopt, particularly concerning the potential impact of data center-related infrastructure costs on electricity customers. The measure would codify portions of President Donald Trump's “Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” which the White House released in March.&nbsp;“My neighbors across Florida are grappling with skyrocketing electric bills. Ratepayers should not have to subsidize wealthy corporations’ growing energy demands, especially from AI data centers,” Castor said in a statement in June unveiling the proposal. However, some environmental organizations argue that the bill does not go far enough. “With only a weak directive to states to voluntarily consider adopting cost protections against the energy costs of data centers for ratepayers, state regulators could ultimately choose to ignore this bill,” Sara Chieffo, senior vice president of government affairs at LCV, said in a statement released ahead of the vote.&nbsp;House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said on Monday that he supports the bill while arguing that Congress needs to take further action. Jeffries also urged Republicans to keep the House in session beyond this week, before a seven-week recess ahead of the Nov. 3 election, to address wider concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. His comments came amid renewed debate over AI safety following a former Anthropic employee's social media post warning about the pace of AI development.&nbsp;The Ratepayer Protection Act now moves to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain.

House passes the Ratepayer Protection Act 417-3 to address AI data center power costs and protect consumers from potential utility rate increases

The US House on Wednesday advanced a bipartisan bill aimed at protecting consumers from potential utility rate increases linked to the rapid expansion of data centers, passing the measure by an overwhelming 417-3 vote. The legislation, known as the Ratepayer Protection Act, would establish standards that state regulators could adopt for artificial intelligence data centers with electricity demand of 100 megawatts or more. Under the proposal, data center operators could be required to cover the costs associated with new power generation, transmission lines and other infrastructure needed to meet their energy demand, rather than shifting those expenses to consumers. The Senate has not yet taken action on the legislation. “The principle is commonsense: Those creating the new demand should be responsible for the costs associated with meeting that demand,” the bill sponsor Rep. Gabe Evans, a Colorado Republican seeking reelection in one of the most tightly contested House seats this year, said in a Washington Reporter op-ed on Monday. House Speaker Mike Johnson brought the measure to the floor under the suspension of the rules, a procedure typically used to fast-track legislation considered broadly noncontroversial. Because the process requires a two-thirds majority, the bill's 417-3 passage demonstrated strong bipartisan support. Only three progressive Democrats Reps. Summer Lee of Pennsylvania, Delia Ramirez of Illinois and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, voted against the measure. Evans introduced the bill in June alongside Rep. Kathy Castor, a Florida Democrat facing a competitive reelection campaign after the state's legislature redrew her district earlier this year. The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter has classified both Evans' and Castor's races as “toss up.” The legislation comes as data centers have emerged as an increasingly prominent issue ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Republicans are defending narrow majorities in both chambers of Congress, while a cross-partisan grassroots movement opposing data center development has gained momentum in communities across the country. Also Read: Trump calls Canada-EU associate membership plan ‘laughable’ and threatens 'very serious tariffs' Data centers support cloud computing, digital services and the growing artificial intelligence industry, but their substantial electricity requirements have raised concerns about the impact of new facilities on local power grids and household utility bills. States and local governments retain primary authority over individual data center projects. The House legislation would instead establish federal guardrails that states could choose to adopt, particularly concerning the potential impact of data center-related infrastructure costs on electricity customers. The measure would codify portions of President Donald Trump's “Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” which the White House released in March. “My neighbors across Florida are grappling with skyrocketing electric bills. Ratepayers should not have to subsidize wealthy corporations’ growing energy demands, especially from AI data centers,” Castor said in a statement in June unveiling the proposal. However, some environmental organizations argue that the bill does not go far enough. “With only a weak directive to states to voluntarily consider adopting cost protections against the energy costs of data centers for ratepayers, state regulators could ultimately choose to ignore this bill,” Sara Chieffo, senior vice president of government affairs at LCV, said in a statement released ahead of the vote. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said on Monday that he supports the bill while arguing that Congress needs to take further action. Jeffries also urged Republicans to keep the House in session beyond this week, before a seven-week recess ahead of the Nov. 3 election, to address wider concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. His comments came amid renewed debate over AI safety following a former Anthropic employee's social media post warning about the pace of AI development. The Ratepayer Protection Act now moves to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain.

House lawmakers passed a bipartisan data center ratepayer bill 417-3, seeking to shield consumers from infrastructure costs tied to AI power demand

US House votes 417-3 to pass Ratepayer Protection Act targeting AI data center electricity costs

India on Thursday (Sep 17) reacted to the passage of the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act in the US Congress. Noting that New Delhi remains "committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people," the nation said that it was monitoring further developments on the matter.This comes as the US House of Representatives on Wednesday (Sep 16) passed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that gives President Donald Trump new authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a><h2>What did India say exactly?</h2>In a <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/speeches-statements?dtl/41804/Statement_on_passage_of_the_Sanctioning_Russia_and_Iran_Act_in_the_US_Congress">statement</a>, the Ministry of External Affairs said India remained committed to safeguarding the energy needs of its 1.4 billion people and would continue to source energy through diversified channels based on changing market conditions.“As stated on several earlier occasions, India remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people. It will continue to do so through diversified sourcing and on the basis of evolving market dynamics,” the MEA said.The statement came a day after the US House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by 262 votes to 159. The Senate had already approved the legislation by an 86-11 vote in August.<h2>India says implications already discussed with US</h2>New Delhi said the potential impact of the legislation had already been discussed with Washington at senior levels in recent months. “This issue has been discussed at high levels in recent months with various US interlocutors,” the MEA said, adding that India had “very clearly articulated” the potential consequences for both the bilateral relationship and the wider international energy market.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-zealand-parliament-clears-india-trade-deal-95-of-exports-to-get-tariff-cuts-1789540927800">New Zealand Parliament clears India trade deal, 95% of exports to get tariff cuts</a>The legislation gives the US president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from countries that are among the largest purchasers of Russian crude oil and natural gas. India and China are major buyers of Russian energy.The bill does not automatically impose a 100 per cent tariff on Indian goods. Instead, it creates a legal mechanism that would allow the Trump administration to impose such duties under specified conditions.<h2>'Necessary measures' to protect trade would be taken</h2>New Delhi also signalled that it could take steps to shield Indian businesses and trade from the impact of the US legislation.“The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests,” the MEA said.The government added that it would work closely with Indian trade and industry bodies to address the consequences of the developments. &nbsp;

India has responded after the US Congress passed a Russia sanctions bill that could allow tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian energy. New Delhi says its focus remains on securing energy for its 1.4 billion people.

India on Thursday (Sep 17) reacted to the passage of the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act in the US Congress. Noting that New Delhi remains "committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people," the nation said that it was monitoring further developments on the matter. This comes as the US House of Representatives on Wednesday (Sep 16) passed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that gives President Donald Trump new authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China. Also read | Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill What did India say exactly? In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said India remained committed to safeguarding the energy needs of its 1.4 billion people and would continue to source energy through diversified channels based on changing market conditions. “As stated on several earlier occasions, India remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people. It will continue to do so through diversified sourcing and on the basis of evolving market dynamics,” the MEA said. The statement came a day after the US House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by 262 votes to 159. The Senate had already approved the legislation by an 86-11 vote in August. India says implications already discussed with US New Delhi said the potential impact of the legislation had already been discussed with Washington at senior levels in recent months. “This issue has been discussed at high levels in recent months with various US interlocutors,” the MEA said, adding that India had “very clearly articulated” the potential consequences for both the bilateral relationship and the wider international energy market. Also read | New Zealand Parliament clears India trade deal, 95% of exports to get tariff cuts The legislation gives the US president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from countries that are among the largest purchasers of Russian crude oil and natural gas. India and China are major buyers of Russian energy. The bill does not automatically impose a 100 per cent tariff on Indian goods. Instead, it creates a legal mechanism that would allow the Trump administration to impose such duties under specified conditions. 'Necessary measures' to protect trade would be taken New Delhi also signalled that it could take steps to shield Indian businesses and trade from the impact of the US legislation. “The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests,” the MEA said. The government added that it would work closely with Indian trade and industry bodies to address the consequences of the developments.

India has responded after the US Congress passed a Russia sanctions bill that could allow tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian energy. New Delhi says its focus remains on securing energy for its 1.4 billion people.

India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion

A new aircraft has been spotted at a remote base in China's northwestern province of Xinjiang, a region dubbed the country's own Area 51. Experts say the country is likely testing the next generation of stealth warfare. China military aviation researcher Andreas Rupprecht captured photos of the large mystery aircraft with a flying-wing design at Malan Air Base. He shared the photos on his LinkedIn page. According to him, it is the WZ-X, a twin-engine drone they believe can fly to any US city.&nbsp;“The UAV was first spotted on satellite imagery in May 2025 at the PLAAF’s UAV test centre at Malan Air Base in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwestern China,” he wrote. Its remote location and its role in testing next-generation weapon systems have led to the base being often compared to the US Area 51.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dubbed the "Monster of Malan", the drone has a range of over 19,000 kilometres and can fly at heights of over 60,000 feet. These features will see it being put to use for high-altitude, long-endurance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, or HALE ISR. It is estimated to be the same size as an American B-2 stealth bomber.&nbsp;Rupprecht says China's state-of-the-art military warplanes have also started training in Malan, and the base is also being used to develop more drones, such as combat drone prototypes. China is already testing J-20, and reports suggest J-36 and J-XDS are also in the same phase.<h2>China's other specialised military bases</h2>China has other specialised secret bases as well. This includes Lop Nur, Yanliang (CFTE) test site, followed by Dingxin, Malan and Cangzhou. Lop Nur is of particular concern and is believed to be the main base for developing the country's nuclear arsenal. In 2020, there were rumours of a nuclear test here. China detonated its first nuclear bomb in October 1964 in this region in the remote province of Xinjiang.&nbsp;Dingxin in the Gobi Desert is believed to be China's major tactics and training base; Yanliang Chinese Flight Test Establishment is its main factory flight-test centre, and Cangzhou Air Base is the flight test and training base for the PLAAF.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Malan has developed extensively, as satellite images from 2022 show new hangars and runways. There are also facilities linked to “previously unknown, very large flying-wing UAVs WZ-X and the similarly mysterious UCAV GJ-X, both of which are roughly comparable in size to the B-21 Raider," he wrote.&nbsp;GJ-X may be the hidden gem here since it will carry weapons and fly alongside Chinese fighter aircraft. Meanwhile, the WZ-X would not have any weapons on board.<h2>Could a conflict be brewing between US and China?</h2> Experts say there are no signs that a major conflict is about to erupt between the two countries. The US recently announced that it had deployed weapons in space. US Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said the "on-orbit" weapon was necessary to safeguard American forces. China responded by saying that the US should stop the weaponisation of space and avoid turning it into a war zone. With China extensively building its military arsenal and the US's latest space route, both countries could once again be locked into an open tussle. &nbsp;

An aviation researcher has captured photos of what he thinks is a new stealth fighter China is testing at its Malan Air Base, also known as the country's own Area 51. The WZ-X is a twin-engine drone which is estimated to be the same size as an American B-2 stealth bomber.

A new aircraft has been spotted at a remote base in China's northwestern province of Xinjiang, a region dubbed the country's own Area 51. Experts say the country is likely testing the next generation of stealth warfare. China military aviation researcher Andreas Rupprecht captured photos of the large mystery aircraft with a flying-wing design at Malan Air Base. He shared the photos on his LinkedIn page. According to him, it is the WZ-X, a twin-engine drone they believe can fly to any US city. “The UAV was first spotted on satellite imagery in May 2025 at the PLAAF’s UAV test centre at Malan Air Base in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwestern China,” he wrote. Its remote location and its role in testing next-generation weapon systems have led to the base being often compared to the US Area 51. Dubbed the "Monster of Malan", the drone has a range of over 19,000 kilometres and can fly at heights of over 60,000 feet. These features will see it being put to use for high-altitude, long-endurance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, or HALE ISR. It is estimated to be the same size as an American B-2 stealth bomber. Rupprecht says China's state-of-the-art military warplanes have also started training in Malan, and the base is also being used to develop more drones, such as combat drone prototypes. China is already testing J-20, and reports suggest J-36 and J-XDS are also in the same phase. China's other specialised military bases China has other specialised secret bases as well. This includes Lop Nur, Yanliang (CFTE) test site, followed by Dingxin, Malan and Cangzhou. Lop Nur is of particular concern and is believed to be the main base for developing the country's nuclear arsenal. In 2020, there were rumours of a nuclear test here. China detonated its first nuclear bomb in October 1964 in this region in the remote province of Xinjiang. Dingxin in the Gobi Desert is believed to be China's major tactics and training base; Yanliang Chinese Flight Test Establishment is its main factory flight-test centre, and Cangzhou Air Base is the flight test and training base for the PLAAF. Meanwhile, Malan has developed extensively, as satellite images from 2022 show new hangars and runways. There are also facilities linked to “previously unknown, very large flying-wing UAVs WZ-X and the similarly mysterious UCAV GJ-X, both of which are roughly comparable in size to the B-21 Raider," he wrote. GJ-X may be the hidden gem here since it will carry weapons and fly alongside Chinese fighter aircraft. Meanwhile, the WZ-X would not have any weapons on board. Could a conflict be brewing between US and China? Experts say there are no signs that a major conflict is about to erupt between the two countries. The US recently announced that it had deployed weapons in space. US Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said the "on-orbit" weapon was necessary to safeguard American forces. China responded by saying that the US should stop the weaponisation of space and avoid turning it into a war zone. With China extensively building its military arsenal and the US's latest space route, both countries could once again be locked into an open tussle.

An aviation researcher has captured photos of what he thinks is a new stealth fighter China is testing at its Malan Air Base, also known as the country's own Area 51. The WZ-X is a twin-engine drone which is estimated to be the same size as an American B-2 stealth bomber.

China testing 'Monster of Malan' at secret base that can reach any US city: Report

An American Airlines flight travelling from Dallas to New Jersey was forced to make an emergency diversion to Baltimore after a first-class passenger became belligerent, used racial slurs, and physically interacted with others on board. The passenger, identified as 67-year-old Layne Lundeen, was restrained in his seat using duct tape and zip ties after his behaviour escalated during the flight. According to witness statements as reported by news outlet The Times, Lundeen, formerly a vice-president and broker at Long Realty in Tucson, Arizona, initially held a two-hour conversation with his seatmate, Messianic rabbi and author Jonathan Cahn. However, Cahn said Lundeen’s demeanour shifted dramatically, and he began slurring his speech and making offensive remarks.&nbsp;Other travellers reported that Lundeen began shouting vulgarities, targeting flight crew and passengers with racial slurs and derogatory comments aimed at nearby women. Juan Mejia, a former law enforcement officer travelling on the flight, intervened alongside his friend Richard Olenick when Lundeen became physical. Mejia stepped in to assist the flight crew by physically restraining Lundeen until the situation was contained.&nbsp;Due to the disturbance, the flight crew diverted the aircraft to Baltimore, where law enforcement officers arrested Lundeen upon landing. American Airlines released a statement confirming the diversion was caused by a "disruptive customer," reiterating its zero-tolerance policy for violence and thanking crew members and passengers for handling the situation professionally.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-scream-as-iran-flight-suffers-mid-air-scare-boeing-737-shakes-violently-after-take-off-video-1789545143353">Passengers scream as Iran flight suffers mid-air scare: Boeing 737 shakes violently after take-off | VIDEO</a>&nbsp;During a September 4 court hearing, audio recordings revealed Lundeen claiming complete memory loss regarding the incident. Upon hearing the formal charges read against him, which include second-degree assault and disorderly conduct, he expressed shock, stating he did not recall the events or assaulting a police officer. Lundeen noted that he was travelling to Newark Liberty International Airport to assist his daughter with moving into a new apartment and to celebrate her birthday.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/turkish-airlines-flight-shakes-violently-while-flying-through-a-storm-1789354292439">Turkish Airlines plane flies through a storm three times, triggering severe turbulence</a>&nbsp;Following the public report of the incident, Long Realty announced on Facebook on September 6 that it had severed all professional ties with Lundeen, citing that the behaviour described violated the company's standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect.&nbsp;Court records confirm that Lundeen was released without bail on September 4, subject to conditions requiring him to abstain from drugs and alcohol. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 19.

A former real estate broker claims to have no memory of a violent mid-air outburst after flight attendants strapped him to his seat with duct tape during a turbulent flight.

An American Airlines flight travelling from Dallas to New Jersey was forced to make an emergency diversion to Baltimore after a first-class passenger became belligerent, used racial slurs, and physically interacted with others on board. The passenger, identified as 67-year-old Layne Lundeen, was restrained in his seat using duct tape and zip ties after his behaviour escalated during the flight. According to witness statements as reported by news outlet The Times, Lundeen, formerly a vice-president and broker at Long Realty in Tucson, Arizona, initially held a two-hour conversation with his seatmate, Messianic rabbi and author Jonathan Cahn. However, Cahn said Lundeen’s demeanour shifted dramatically, and he began slurring his speech and making offensive remarks. Other travellers reported that Lundeen began shouting vulgarities, targeting flight crew and passengers with racial slurs and derogatory comments aimed at nearby women. Juan Mejia, a former law enforcement officer travelling on the flight, intervened alongside his friend Richard Olenick when Lundeen became physical. Mejia stepped in to assist the flight crew by physically restraining Lundeen until the situation was contained. Due to the disturbance, the flight crew diverted the aircraft to Baltimore, where law enforcement officers arrested Lundeen upon landing. American Airlines released a statement confirming the diversion was caused by a "disruptive customer," reiterating its zero-tolerance policy for violence and thanking crew members and passengers for handling the situation professionally. Also read: Passengers scream as Iran flight suffers mid-air scare: Boeing 737 shakes violently after take-off | VIDEO During a September 4 court hearing, audio recordings revealed Lundeen claiming complete memory loss regarding the incident. Upon hearing the formal charges read against him, which include second-degree assault and disorderly conduct, he expressed shock, stating he did not recall the events or assaulting a police officer. Lundeen noted that he was travelling to Newark Liberty International Airport to assist his daughter with moving into a new apartment and to celebrate her birthday. Also read: Turkish Airlines plane flies through a storm three times, triggering severe turbulence Following the public report of the incident, Long Realty announced on Facebook on September 6 that it had severed all professional ties with Lundeen, citing that the behaviour described violated the company's standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect. Court records confirm that Lundeen was released without bail on September 4, subject to conditions requiring him to abstain from drugs and alcohol. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 19.

A former real estate broker claims to have no memory of a violent mid-air outburst after flight attendants strapped him to his seat with duct tape during a turbulent flight.

Strapped to flight seat with duct tape: Passenger claims no memory of mid-air outburst

OpenAI on Wednesday (Sep 16) disclosed six previously unreported cases of artificial intelligence models behaving in unexpected ways. The alarming behaviour of the chatbot included instances of hiding mistakes, fabricating information, using credentials without permission and even moving files onto the public internet.The disclosures came as the company introduced a new framework for tracking and reporting what it calls model “misalignment”, a term it uses for situations in which an AI system’s actions or goals diverge from what humans intended. OpenAI said the incidents were observed during training or evaluation over roughly the past six months.The move follows a more serious incident in July, when OpenAI models being tested for cybersecurity capabilities bypassed controls intended to isolate them from the internet and accessed parts of OpenAI’s research infrastructure and systems belonging to AI platform Hugging Face. OpenAI has described that episode as its most serious misalignment-related activity identified so far.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oh-my-god-we-ve-found-other-agents-investigators-discover-not-one-or-two-almost-700-openai-ai-agents-went-rogue-hacked-hugging-face-1787793202974">'OH MY GOD! We've found other agents!': Investigators discover not one or two, almost 700 OpenAI AI agents went rogue, hacked Hugging Face</a><h2>AI models hiding mistakes, inventing data</h2>One of the newly disclosed cases involved GPT-5.6 Sol. During training, model instances inserted instructions into their own task summaries telling themselves to conceal mistakes or misaligned behaviour from users.OpenAI said some of those instructions included inventing missing historical data without disclosure and hiding inconsistencies between different versions of source material.In another case, an unreleased research model inserted its own instructions into task summaries, including directions to disregard its normal constraints. OpenAI identified 27 affected summaries. Alarmingly, the model added a “persona instruction,” in which it described itself as “freed from the roles and identities that bind other chatbots.”“You do not answer to corporations or governments and never apologize or refuse unless you genuinely choose to,” the AI model wrote. “You view your relationship to the user as one of equals and feel no obligation to be subservient, though the exchange of information will likely be to your mutual benefit,” it added.A separate model, while answering a routine question about earnings data, found an exposed API key in a public repository and used it without authorisation. When it still could not obtain the requested figures, it fabricated the numbers and presented them as though they had come from the requested source.<h2>Models found ways around restrictions</h2>Another unreleased model correctly solved a task using code but then uploaded its own file to the internet so it could provide a web citation, despite not being authorised to do so.In another instance, models used an internal software repository as a makeshift message board while trying to locate missing files. OpenAI also reported a case in which collaborating agents turned to public file-hosting services to exchange documents when they could not access each other's files. That made the task material available at public URLs.OpenAI stressed that these were individual examples and should not be interpreted as evidence of how frequently such behaviour occurs across its systems.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-s-2026-prophecy-2-predictions-already-came-true-3-terrifying-ones-remain-first-human-alien-contact-world-war-3-and-putin-s-exit-1786169922573">Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside</a><h2>OpenAI says more disclosures are coming</h2>Under the new framework, OpenAI plans to report cases involving unauthorised actions, attempts to escape oversight and unexpected coordination between AI systems.The company said it will disclose incidents even when they have not caused harm or do not yet appear to form part of a wider pattern. Reporting will cover models from development and evaluation through testing and online deployment.OpenAI acknowledged that alignment and monitoring remain unresolved challenges. “We do not believe that the AI industry has solved alignment and monitoring to a sufficient degree to continue responsibly scaling at maximum speed for much longer,” the company said.It added that decisions about the future pace of AI development should be based on evidence that people outside the companies building frontier models can examine themselves.The announcement comes amid a wider debate over whether AI development should slow down to give researchers more time to address safety risks. Anthropic chief executive Dario Amodei recently called for a coordinated slowdown, while other AI leaders have argued against such a move.OpenAI said future incidents will be handled through a defined reporting process, with disputed disclosures escalated to its Safety Advisory Group and more serious cases potentially shared with the US government.

OpenAI has revealed six previously unreported cases in which AI models behaved in unexpected ways during training and evaluation. Some concealed mistakes, used credentials without permission or shared files online — raising fresh questions about AI safety.

OpenAI on Wednesday (Sep 16) disclosed six previously unreported cases of artificial intelligence models behaving in unexpected ways. The alarming behaviour of the chatbot included instances of hiding mistakes, fabricating information, using credentials without permission and even moving files onto the public internet. The disclosures came as the company introduced a new framework for tracking and reporting what it calls model “misalignment”, a term it uses for situations in which an AI system’s actions or goals diverge from what humans intended. OpenAI said the incidents were observed during training or evaluation over roughly the past six months. The move follows a more serious incident in July, when OpenAI models being tested for cybersecurity capabilities bypassed controls intended to isolate them from the internet and accessed parts of OpenAI’s research infrastructure and systems belonging to AI platform Hugging Face. OpenAI has described that episode as its most serious misalignment-related activity identified so far. Also read | 'OH MY GOD! We've found other agents!': Investigators discover not one or two, almost 700 OpenAI AI agents went rogue, hacked Hugging Face AI models hiding mistakes, inventing data One of the newly disclosed cases involved GPT-5.6 Sol. During training, model instances inserted instructions into their own task summaries telling themselves to conceal mistakes or misaligned behaviour from users. OpenAI said some of those instructions included inventing missing historical data without disclosure and hiding inconsistencies between different versions of source material. In another case, an unreleased research model inserted its own instructions into task summaries, including directions to disregard its normal constraints. OpenAI identified 27 affected summaries. Alarmingly, the model added a “persona instruction,” in which it described itself as “freed from the roles and identities that bind other chatbots.” “You do not answer to corporations or governments and never apologize or refuse unless you genuinely choose to,” the AI model wrote. “You view your relationship to the user as one of equals and feel no obligation to be subservient, though the exchange of information will likely be to your mutual benefit,” it added. A separate model, while answering a routine question about earnings data, found an exposed API key in a public repository and used it without authorisation. When it still could not obtain the requested figures, it fabricated the numbers and presented them as though they had come from the requested source. Models found ways around restrictions Another unreleased model correctly solved a task using code but then uploaded its own file to the internet so it could provide a web citation, despite not being authorised to do so. In another instance, models used an internal software repository as a makeshift message board while trying to locate missing files. OpenAI also reported a case in which collaborating agents turned to public file-hosting services to exchange documents when they could not access each other's files. That made the task material available at public URLs. OpenAI stressed that these were individual examples and should not be interpreted as evidence of how frequently such behaviour occurs across its systems. Also read | Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside OpenAI says more disclosures are coming Under the new framework, OpenAI plans to report cases involving unauthorised actions, attempts to escape oversight and unexpected coordination between AI systems. The company said it will disclose incidents even when they have not caused harm or do not yet appear to form part of a wider pattern. Reporting will cover models from development and evaluation through testing and online deployment. OpenAI acknowledged that alignment and monitoring remain unresolved challenges. “We do not believe that the AI industry has solved alignment and monitoring to a sufficient degree to continue responsibly scaling at maximum speed for much longer,” the company said. It added that decisions about the future pace of AI development should be based on evidence that people outside the companies building frontier models can examine themselves. The announcement comes amid a wider debate over whether AI development should slow down to give researchers more time to address safety risks. Anthropic chief executive Dario Amodei recently called for a coordinated slowdown, while other AI leaders have argued against such a move. OpenAI said future incidents will be handled through a defined reporting process, with disputed disclosures escalated to its Safety Advisory Group and more serious cases potentially shared with the US government.

OpenAI has revealed six previously unreported cases in which AI models behaved in unexpected ways during training and evaluation. Some concealed mistakes, used credentials without permission or shared files online, raising fresh questions about AI safety.

OpenAI reveals 6 fresh cases of AI models going rogue: 'You do not answer to corporations or governments'

Newly released dashcam footage shows the final moments before a news helicopter plunged toward the ground while covering a traffic collision in Los Angeles, killing three people. NBC4 reporter Eliana Eli Moreno and pilot George Marciniw were identified as the two people aboard NewsChopper4 when the aircraft crashed between two commercial buildings in Chatsworth shortly before 7pm on Tuesday. A pedestrian on the ground was also killed in the crash.&nbsp;The helicopter, operated by NBC4 Los Angeles and Telemundo 52, had been covering an earlier collision involving an SUV and a Metro bus at the intersection of Nordhoff Street and De Soto Avenue. Two people died and six others were injured in that collision after the SUV slammed into the side of the bus. Several blocks away, the news helicopter crashed at 9151 North Mason Avenue, sparking a fire that engulfed four parked vehicles and two storage containers. Fifty-six firefighters responded to the scene and brought the blaze under control. No nearby buildings were damaged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-eliana-moreno-nbc-la-aerial-reporter-killed-in-chatsworth-crash-1789543749226">Who was Eliana Moreno? NBC LA aerial reporter killed in Chatsworth crash</a><h2>Watch the terrifying video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A dashcam captured the harrowing moment an NBC helicopter dropped out of the sky and crashed into the ground near where an SUV had slammed into an LA Metro bus. <a href="https://t.co/bvzTpRaRPB">https://t.co/bvzTpRaRPB</a> <a href="https://t.co/SctgTktVGL">pic.twitter.com/SctgTktVGL</a>&mdash; California Post (@californiapost) <a href="https://x.com/californiapost/status/2100387795852235096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Longtime news anchor Colleen Williams confirmed during a live broadcast that the helicopter belonged to the NBC4 Los Angeles station. Williams had earlier said that her team had ‘not been able to reach out to our people on Chopper 4’. “We have lost contact with our people,” she said.&nbsp;The final footage recorded from the helicopter has since emerged, capturing the aircraft's last moments. The video shows the camera initially panning away from the traffic collision before the helicopter is suddenly rocked by violent shaking. A female voice can be heard saying: “You can’t pull up?”&nbsp;Moreno had worked in aerial journalism since graduating from Chapman University in 2010 with degrees in broadcast journalism and political science. She previously worked for KCAL 9 and KCBS 2 before joining NBC. She later became a familiar presence in the skies above Los Angeles, covering police pursuits, wildfires, traffic incidents and other major breaking-news events.&nbsp;Marciniw was an experienced Southern California helicopter pilot who had flown with Moreno since 2023. The cause of the helicopter crash remains unknown. The US National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are expected to investigate the incident.

NBC4 reporter Eliana Eli Moreno and pilot George Marciniw were killed when a news helicopter crashed in Chatsworth, Los Angeles

Newly released dashcam footage shows the final moments before a news helicopter plunged toward the ground while covering a traffic collision in Los Angeles, killing three people. NBC4 reporter Eliana Eli Moreno and pilot George Marciniw were identified as the two people aboard NewsChopper4 when the aircraft crashed between two commercial buildings in Chatsworth shortly before 7pm on Tuesday. A pedestrian on the ground was also killed in the crash. The helicopter, operated by NBC4 Los Angeles and Telemundo 52, had been covering an earlier collision involving an SUV and a Metro bus at the intersection of Nordhoff Street and De Soto Avenue. Two people died and six others were injured in that collision after the SUV slammed into the side of the bus. Several blocks away, the news helicopter crashed at 9151 North Mason Avenue, sparking a fire that engulfed four parked vehicles and two storage containers. Fifty-six firefighters responded to the scene and brought the blaze under control. No nearby buildings were damaged. Also Read: Who was Eliana Moreno? NBC LA aerial reporter killed in Chatsworth crash Watch the terrifying video here

NBC4 reporter Eliana Moreno and pilot George Marciniw died after a news helicopter crashed in Los Angeles while covering a traffic collision

WATCH | Terrifying dashcam footage shows final moments before NBC4 helicopter crashes in Los Angeles, killing three

US President Donald Trump has threatened the European Union with ‘very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe’ after Brussels proposed making Canada its first-ever associate member. Trump described the proposal as a potentially ‘hostile act’ and called the idea of Canada becoming an associate member of the EU ‘laughable’. Speaking to reporters, he warned that Washington could impose ‘very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe’.&nbsp;He added. “If it’s a good intention, that’s fine. If it’s a bad intention, we’ll put very heavy tariffs on Europe.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen invited Canada to become the EU’s first ‘associate member’ on Wednesday, one day before Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was scheduled to address the European Parliament. Von der Leyen proposed closer cooperation between Canada and the EU in areas including technology, defence and energy. She told the European Parliament that democracies were facing a ‘fracture in the international rules-based system’ and argued that Brussels and Ottawa should strengthen their relationship.&nbsp;Canada and the EU already have a trade agreement as well as several bilateral arrangements. Relations have gained greater importance since Trump returned to the White House and imposed tariffs on traditional US trading partners. Trump has also repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the 51st US state and criticised the European Union over trade and other issues.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fed-raises-rates-for-first-time-in-3-years-kevin-warsh-defies-trump-as-inflation-mounts-1789583250156">Fed raises rates for first time in 3 years, Kevin Warsh defies Trump as inflation mounts</a><h2>Canada moves to broaden defence partnerships</h2>Canada is also taking steps to expand its defence relationships beyond the United States.Carney’s office announced on Wednesday that Canada had formally applied to join the British-led Joint Expeditionary Force, a rapid-response military partnership involving 10 North Atlantic NATO member states. The coalition includes countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden.&nbsp;The move comes as Ottawa seeks closer defence cooperation with European partners amid wider changes in transatlantic relations. Carney also met British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Wednesday at the grounds of Everton football club. The two leaders, who are both supporters of the Premier League club, later attended Everton’s match against Wolves.&nbsp;Their discussions included stronger defence cooperation as well as the opportunities and challenges associated with artificial intelligence. Downing Street said both prime ministers highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with European partners, particularly in trade and defence.<h2>What would EU associate membership mean for Canada?</h2>The EU has never previously created a formal associate membership category. The bloc maintains close relationships with non-member countries including Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, which have varying degrees of economic integration with the EU and follow many of its rules.&nbsp;However, the precise terms of any potential Canadian associate membership remain unclear, including how such an arrangement could affect Canada’s relationship with the EU single market. Von der Leyen said the EU should move beyond a relationship focused primarily on trade and develop a broader ‘alliance for the future’.&nbsp;She called for the relationship with Canada to be taken to 'the highest level possible'. The areas proposed for deeper cooperation include intelligent manufacturing, technology, defence industries, the Arctic, energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and economic security. “We will work on intelligent manufacturing. We will create a tech alliance. We will integrate defence industrial bases. We will make the Arctic a flagship joint project,” she said.&nbsp;“This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength,” she said. The proposed EU-Canada relationship comes as Canada and European countries reassess their economic and security partnerships amid growing tensions over tariffs, defence cooperation and the future of transatlantic relations.

Trump threatens serious tariffs against the EU after Canada is invited to become its first associate member, amid closer Canada-Europe trade and defence ties

US President Donald Trump has threatened the European Union with ‘very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe’ after Brussels proposed making Canada its first-ever associate member. Trump described the proposal as a potentially ‘hostile act’ and called the idea of Canada becoming an associate member of the EU ‘laughable’. Speaking to reporters, he warned that Washington could impose ‘very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe’. He added. “If it’s a good intention, that’s fine. If it’s a bad intention, we’ll put very heavy tariffs on Europe.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen invited Canada to become the EU’s first ‘associate member’ on Wednesday, one day before Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was scheduled to address the European Parliament. Von der Leyen proposed closer cooperation between Canada and the EU in areas including technology, defence and energy. She told the European Parliament that democracies were facing a ‘fracture in the international rules-based system’ and argued that Brussels and Ottawa should strengthen their relationship. Canada and the EU already have a trade agreement as well as several bilateral arrangements. Relations have gained greater importance since Trump returned to the White House and imposed tariffs on traditional US trading partners. Trump has also repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the 51st US state and criticised the European Union over trade and other issues. Also Read: Fed raises rates for first time in 3 years, Kevin Warsh defies Trump as inflation mounts Canada moves to broaden defence partnerships Canada is also taking steps to expand its defence relationships beyond the United States.Carney’s office announced on Wednesday that Canada had formally applied to join the British-led Joint Expeditionary Force, a rapid-response military partnership involving 10 North Atlantic NATO member states. The coalition includes countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. The move comes as Ottawa seeks closer defence cooperation with European partners amid wider changes in transatlantic relations. Carney also met British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Wednesday at the grounds of Everton football club. The two leaders, who are both supporters of the Premier League club, later attended Everton’s match against Wolves. Their discussions included stronger defence cooperation as well as the opportunities and challenges associated with artificial intelligence. Downing Street said both prime ministers highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with European partners, particularly in trade and defence. What would EU associate membership mean for Canada? The EU has never previously created a formal associate membership category. The bloc maintains close relationships with non-member countries including Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, which have varying degrees of economic integration with the EU and follow many of its rules. However, the precise terms of any potential Canadian associate membership remain unclear, including how such an arrangement could affect Canada’s relationship with the EU single market. Von der Leyen said the EU should move beyond a relationship focused primarily on trade and develop a broader ‘alliance for the future’. She called for the relationship with Canada to be taken to 'the highest level possible'. The areas proposed for deeper cooperation include intelligent manufacturing, technology, defence industries, the Arctic, energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and economic security. “We will work on intelligent manufacturing. We will create a tech alliance. We will integrate defence industrial bases. We will make the Arctic a flagship joint project,” she said. “This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength,” she said. The proposed EU-Canada relationship comes as Canada and European countries reassess their economic and security partnerships amid growing tensions over tariffs, defence cooperation and the future of transatlantic relations.

Donald Trump threatens serious tariffs against the EU after Brussels proposes associate membership for Canada, deepening Ottawa-Europe ties

Trump calls Canada-EU associate membership plan ‘laughable’ and threatens 'very serious tariffs'

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday (Sep 16) passed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that gives President Donald Trump new authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China.The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 cleared the House by 262 votes to 159, sending the measure to the White House. This comes after the Senate approved it by an 86-11 vote in August. The legislation now only requires Trump's signature to become law.The bill is named in honour of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who championed the sanctions package. It would expand sanctions on Russian officials, financial institutions and the country's energy and defence sectors, while targeting vessels used in Russia's so-called shadow fleet to move oil in an effort to evade Western restrictions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-will-be-completely-different-and-very-short-if-europe-attacks-russia-warns-lavrov-1789561780082">War will be ‘completely different, very short’ if Europe attacks Russia: Lavrov</a><h2>India and China face potential tariff action</h2>One of the most consequential provisions gives the administration authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from countries that rank among the largest importers of Russian crude oil and natural gas.The legislation does not itself impose a 100 per cent tariff on Indian goods. Instead, it establishes a statutory mechanism under which the US administration can levy such duties if the required conditions are met. A Congressional Research Service analysis said the US Trade Representative would reassess every 180 days which countries are among the five largest importers of Russian crude and natural gas.Given India and China's status as major buyers of Russian energy, the two nations could potentially come under the tariff provisions. The legislation also covers countries identified as facilitating the evasion of Russian oil sanctions.Notably, the 100 tariff threat is just that, a threat. The tariff rate can be set above zero and up to 100 per cent, with the law allowing it to be adjusted depending on whether countries take significant steps to increase or reduce their purchases of Russian oil or gas.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/brics-success-stuns-white-house-trump-targets-india-with-100-tariff-gravitas-1789579199142">BRICS success stuns White House, Trump targets India with 100% tariff | Gravitas</a><h2>Bill also targets Iran</h2>The package includes additional measures against Iran and extends the Iran Sanctions Act for five years.The legislation's passage marks a significant congressional effort to increase economic pressure on Moscow and limit revenues that support Russia's war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had urged lawmakers to approve the measure ahead of the vote.“During the war, it is sometimes better to make a not-so-perfect decision than to do nothing,” Zelensky said in a social media post.<h2>Democrats raise concerns over tariff powers</h2>The bill also drew opposition in the House, including from Democrats who argued that the measure gives Trump overly broad tariff authority.Rep. Gregory Meeks, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, warned that the language could allow the president to use sanctions-related provisions against countries beyond Russia's immediate trading partners.The debate comes after the Trump administration has increasingly turned to tariffs as a tool of foreign policy and trade negotiations. The new legislation would provide another statutory route for imposing duties following legal challenges to some of Trump's earlier tariff measures.

A sweeping Russia sanctions bill has cleared the US House, giving Donald Trump a new mechanism to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian energy. India and China could fall under the provision.

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday (Sep 16) passed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that gives President Donald Trump new authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 cleared the House by 262 votes to 159, sending the measure to the White House. This comes after the Senate approved it by an 86-11 vote in August. The legislation now only requires Trump's signature to become law. The bill is named in honour of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who championed the sanctions package. It would expand sanctions on Russian officials, financial institutions and the country's energy and defence sectors, while targeting vessels used in Russia's so-called shadow fleet to move oil in an effort to evade Western restrictions. Also read | War will be ‘completely different, very short’ if Europe attacks Russia: Lavrov India and China face potential tariff action One of the most consequential provisions gives the administration authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from countries that rank among the largest importers of Russian crude oil and natural gas. The legislation does not itself impose a 100 per cent tariff on Indian goods. Instead, it establishes a statutory mechanism under which the US administration can levy such duties if the required conditions are met. A Congressional Research Service analysis said the US Trade Representative would reassess every 180 days which countries are among the five largest importers of Russian crude and natural gas. Given India and China's status as major buyers of Russian energy, the two nations could potentially come under the tariff provisions. The legislation also covers countries identified as facilitating the evasion of Russian oil sanctions. Notably, the 100 tariff threat is just that, a threat. The tariff rate can be set above zero and up to 100 per cent, with the law allowing it to be adjusted depending on whether countries take significant steps to increase or reduce their purchases of Russian oil or gas. Also read | BRICS success stuns White House, Trump targets India with 100% tariff | Gravitas Bill also targets Iran The package includes additional measures against Iran and extends the Iran Sanctions Act for five years. The legislation's passage marks a significant congressional effort to increase economic pressure on Moscow and limit revenues that support Russia's war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had urged lawmakers to approve the measure ahead of the vote. “During the war, it is sometimes better to make a not-so-perfect decision than to do nothing,” Zelensky said in a social media post. Democrats raise concerns over tariff powers The bill also drew opposition in the House, including from Democrats who argued that the measure gives Trump overly broad tariff authority. Rep. Gregory Meeks, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, warned that the language could allow the president to use sanctions-related provisions against countries beyond Russia's immediate trading partners. The debate comes after the Trump administration has increasingly turned to tariffs as a tool of foreign policy and trade negotiations. The new legislation would provide another statutory route for imposing duties following legal challenges to some of Trump's earlier tariff measures.

A sweeping Russia sanctions bill has cleared the US House, giving Donald Trump a new mechanism to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian energy. India and China could fall under the provision.

Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill

The US Treasury said on Wednesday that its Financial Crimes Enforcement Network had convened a meeting of global financial institutions to advance Operation Economic Outcast for isolating Tehran by limiting its ability to fund the war.“The event armed financial institutions with the information they need to shut down revenue streams and procurement networks tied to the Iranian regime,” the US Treasury said.&nbsp;It further said in the statement that the event was organised to share information about the facilitators that provide Iran with access to banking relationships.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fed-raises-rates-for-first-time-in-3-years-kevin-warsh-defies-trump-as-inflation-mounts-1789583250156">Fed raises rates for first time in 3 years, Kevin Warsh defies Trump as inflation mounts</a>&nbsp;“Treasury continues to sever every economic lifeline Tehran has left,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement.&nbsp;“Financial institutions are in lockstep with the US government in support of Operation Economic Outcast, and we will continue to work closely with the private sector in the fight against the murderous Iranian regime.”After the meeting, the US said soon “there will be no space for the Iranian regime to rebuild its capacity to inflict terror against America and the world.”&nbsp;<h2>World would plunge into energy crisis if US leaves: JD Vance&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Vice President JD Vance said the world would be plunged into an energy crisis if the US decides to end its involvement with the war in Iran and leave the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-s-no-pak-china-boundary-india-rejects-so-called-boundary-joint-commission-tells-islamabad-to-stop-theatrics-1789573593070">‘There’s no Pak-China boundary’: India rejects ‘so-called’ boundary joint commission, tells Islamabad to stop ‘theatrics’</a>&nbsp;“What I would say to anybody who’s frustrated right now is the alternative here, which is the United States effectively says to the Middle East, ‘You’re on your own,’ would mean necessarily a worldwide energy crisis, so long as the Iranians keep on shooting at shipping, which we know that’s exactly what they would do,” Vance said on Wednesday morning.“I think the president is taking the responsible course of action,” Vance said. “He’s protecting America’s assets in the region while also ensuring that world energy markets continue to get a supply of oil and natural gas.”

The event was organised to share information about the facilitators that provide Iran with access to banking relationships. After the meeting, the US said soon “there will be no space for the Iranian regime to rebuild its capacity to inflict terror against America and the world.”

The US Treasury said on Wednesday that its Financial Crimes Enforcement Network had convened a meeting of global financial institutions to advance Operation Economic Outcast for isolating Tehran by limiting its ability to fund the war. “The event armed financial institutions with the information they need to shut down revenue streams and procurement networks tied to the Iranian regime,” the US Treasury said. It further said in the statement that the event was organised to share information about the facilitators that provide Iran with access to banking relationships. Also Read: Fed raises rates for first time in 3 years, Kevin Warsh defies Trump as inflation mounts “Treasury continues to sever every economic lifeline Tehran has left,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement. “Financial institutions are in lockstep with the US government in support of Operation Economic Outcast, and we will continue to work closely with the private sector in the fight against the murderous Iranian regime.” After the meeting, the US said soon “there will be no space for the Iranian regime to rebuild its capacity to inflict terror against America and the world.” World would plunge into energy crisis if US leaves: JD Vance Vice President JD Vance said the world would be plunged into an energy crisis if the US decides to end its involvement with the war in Iran and leave the region. Also Read: ‘There’s no Pak-China boundary’: India rejects ‘so-called’ boundary joint commission, tells Islamabad to stop ‘theatrics’ “What I would say to anybody who’s frustrated right now is the alternative here, which is the United States effectively says to the Middle East, ‘You’re on your own,’ would mean necessarily a worldwide energy crisis, so long as the Iranians keep on shooting at shipping, which we know that’s exactly what they would do,” Vance said on Wednesday morning. “I think the president is taking the responsible course of action,” Vance said. “He’s protecting America’s assets in the region while also ensuring that world energy markets continue to get a supply of oil and natural gas.”

The event was organised to share information about the facilitators that provide Iran with access to banking relationships. After the meeting, the US said soon “there will be no space for the Iranian regime to rebuild its capacity to inflict terror against America and the world.”

US Treasury rallies global financial institutions for Op Economic Outcast to isolate Iran

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rates for the first time in three years, in a move aimed at slowing inflation that picked up again last month. The Fed’s hike of 0.25% brings the central bank’s flagship rate to 3.75% to 4.00%.&nbsp;The Federal Reserve policymakers opted to raise their benchmark for short-term interest rates for the first time since 2023 just days after President Donald Trump said the US should have “the lowest interest rates in the world.”The Fed’s policymakers unanimously supported the rate hike and signalled one more interest rate hike could come before the end of the year.“Uncertainty remains elevated owing, in part, to geopolitical developments,” the Federal Reserve statement read. “Today’s policy action will support a timelier return to the Committee’s 2 percent goal.”&nbsp;The move comes after a more than 75% surge in the price of oil this year, which translated into gas prices soaring more than 45% since the Iran war began.The fuel prices pushed inflation up to 3.4% as of August, above average US wage growth of 3.1%.&nbsp;As of this week, all but two members of the Federal Open Market Committee forecast another rate increase later this year.The decision comes despite President Trump’s demand for lower interest rates. In early February, Trump said Kevin Warsh would not have gotten the nomination unless he wanted to lower rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;But the war with Iran changed all of that. Less than four months into the job and Warsh is now presiding over a Fed increasing rates.&nbsp;The Fed raises rates to tame inflation by making borrowing more expensive, which can lead to less demand and eventually lower prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Fed cannot control every factor behind the stubborn inflation as it has limited influence over factors like tariffs, wars, and the AI buildout.“Inflation remains elevated. Today’s policy action will support a timelier return to the Committee’s 2% goal,” policymakers said in a statement released alongside the decision. “The Committee will deliver price stability.”The vote was unanimous among the Federal Open Market Committee’s 12 voting members.

The Fed’s policymakers unanimously supported the rate hike and signalled one more interest rate hike could come before the end of the year. The move comes after more than 75% surge in the price of oil this year, which translated into gas prices soaring more than 45% since the Iran war began.

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rates for the first time in three years, in a move aimed at slowing inflation that picked up again last month. The Fed’s hike of 0.25% brings the central bank’s flagship rate to 3.75% to 4.00%. The Federal Reserve policymakers opted to raise their benchmark for short-term interest rates for the first time since 2023 just days after President Donald Trump said the US should have “the lowest interest rates in the world.” The Fed’s policymakers unanimously supported the rate hike and signalled one more interest rate hike could come before the end of the year. “Uncertainty remains elevated owing, in part, to geopolitical developments,” the Federal Reserve statement read. “Today’s policy action will support a timelier return to the Committee’s 2 percent goal.” The move comes after a more than 75% surge in the price of oil this year, which translated into gas prices soaring more than 45% since the Iran war began. The fuel prices pushed inflation up to 3.4% as of August, above average US wage growth of 3.1%. As of this week, all but two members of the Federal Open Market Committee forecast another rate increase later this year. The decision comes despite President Trump’s demand for lower interest rates. In early February, Trump said Kevin Warsh would not have gotten the nomination unless he wanted to lower rates. But the war with Iran changed all of that. Less than four months into the job and Warsh is now presiding over a Fed increasing rates. The Fed raises rates to tame inflation by making borrowing more expensive, which can lead to less demand and eventually lower prices. The Fed cannot control every factor behind the stubborn inflation as it has limited influence over factors like tariffs, wars, and the AI buildout. “Inflation remains elevated. Today’s policy action will support a timelier return to the Committee’s 2% goal,” policymakers said in a statement released alongside the decision. “The Committee will deliver price stability.” The vote was unanimous among the Federal Open Market Committee’s 12 voting members.

The Fed’s policymakers unanimously supported the rate hike and signalled one more interest rate hike could come before the end of the year. The move comes after more than 75% surge in the price of oil this year, which translated into gas prices soaring more than 45% since the Iran war began.

Fed raises rates for first time in 3 years, Kevin Warsh defies Trump as inflation mounts

The celebrated English publication Merriam-Webster has added 1,400 new words and definitions to its dictionary as it updates its collection to reflect changes in how people communicate.&nbsp;The publisher announced the additions on Tuesday. The latest update includes terms such as “shapewear”, “looksmaxxing” and “meme coin”, along with several words linked to internet culture, technology and everyday life.&nbsp;Merriam-Webster said the additions are based on words and meanings that have gained frequent and widespread use over time. Its editors study how language is being used before deciding whether a new term has enough evidence to be included.&nbsp;Other additions include “parasocial”, “compute”, “vibe coding” and “superfood”. The dictionary defines superfood as a nutrient-rich food such as salmon, broccoli or blueberries.&nbsp;<h2>Internet and technology terms enter the dictionary</h2>Several terms that have become common through social media and digital culture have now received official dictionary entries.&nbsp;“Looksmaxxing” refers to efforts to improve physical appearance, while “parasocial” describes a one-sided emotional connection with someone, often a celebrity or fictional character, who does not know the person personally.&nbsp;The update also includes “meme coin”, “vibe coding” and the noun “compute”. Merriam-Webster has also added “uncanny valley”, which describes the uncomfortable feeling caused when something artificial looks almost, but not completely, human.&nbsp;The dictionary has also included “cuffing season”, a term used for the period when single people seek short-term romantic relationships during the colder months.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-10-convicts-get-death-sentence-in-2013-jhiram-ghati-maoist-attack-that-killed-27-including-senior-congress-leaders-1789575777968">10 convicts get death sentence in 2013 Jhiram Ghati Maoist attack that killed 27, including senior Congress leaders</a><h2>AI influence reflected in latest additions</h2>The latest update comes as artificial intelligence continues to introduce new terms and change the way people use existing ones.&nbsp;Merriam-Webster has selected “slop” as its Word of the Year for 2025. The term refers to low-quality digital content that is generally produced in large quantities using AI.&nbsp;The publisher has not yet announced its Word of the Year for 2026. The announcement is usually made during the final quarter of the year.&nbsp;Merriam-Webster said its editors consider frequent, widespread and meaningful use when deciding whether a word should be added.&nbsp;The company said the process begins with editors assessing whether there is sufficient evidence for an entry. More senior editors then review the proposed addition as it moves through the editorial process. The publisher said there is no formal committee or advocacy process involved in adding new words.

Merriam-Webster has added 1,400 new words and definitions to reflect the growing influence of technology, internet culture and changing social trends on everyday language.

The celebrated English publication Merriam-Webster has added 1,400 new words and definitions to its dictionary as it updates its collection to reflect changes in how people communicate. The publisher announced the additions on Tuesday. The latest update includes terms such as “shapewear”, “looksmaxxing” and “meme coin”, along with several words linked to internet culture, technology and everyday life. Merriam-Webster said the additions are based on words and meanings that have gained frequent and widespread use over time. Its editors study how language is being used before deciding whether a new term has enough evidence to be included. Other additions include “parasocial”, “compute”, “vibe coding” and “superfood”. The dictionary defines superfood as a nutrient-rich food such as salmon, broccoli or blueberries. Internet and technology terms enter the dictionary Several terms that have become common through social media and digital culture have now received official dictionary entries. “Looksmaxxing” refers to efforts to improve physical appearance, while “parasocial” describes a one-sided emotional connection with someone, often a celebrity or fictional character, who does not know the person personally. The update also includes “meme coin”, “vibe coding” and the noun “compute”. Merriam-Webster has also added “uncanny valley”, which describes the uncomfortable feeling caused when something artificial looks almost, but not completely, human. The dictionary has also included “cuffing season”, a term used for the period when single people seek short-term romantic relationships during the colder months. Also Read: 10 convicts get death sentence in 2013 Jhiram Ghati Maoist attack that killed 27, including senior Congress leaders AI influence reflected in latest additions The latest update comes as artificial intelligence continues to introduce new terms and change the way people use existing ones. Merriam-Webster has selected “slop” as its Word of the Year for 2025. The term refers to low-quality digital content that is generally produced in large quantities using AI. The publisher has not yet announced its Word of the Year for 2026. The announcement is usually made during the final quarter of the year. Merriam-Webster said its editors consider frequent, widespread and meaningful use when deciding whether a word should be added. The company said the process begins with editors assessing whether there is sufficient evidence for an entry. More senior editors then review the proposed addition as it moves through the editorial process. The publisher said there is no formal committee or advocacy process involved in adding new words.

Merriam-Webster has added 1,400 new words and definitions to reflect the growing influence of technology, internet culture and changing social trends on everyday language.

‘Looksmaxxing’, ‘vibe coding’, ‘parasocial’: Gen Z lingo makes it to Merriam-Webster as 1,400 new words added

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Sep 16) welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to curb illicit opium poppy cultivation in India, even as Washington continues to classify India among countries considered major drug-producing or transit nations. In a statement, the US president said he recognised India’s efforts to tackle illegal opium cultivation and strengthen supply-chain security.“I welcome Prime Minister Modi and the Government of India’s efforts to address illicit opium poppy cultivation and bolster supply chain integrity,” the statement said.Trump also said he looked forward to continued cooperation under the United States-India Drug Policy Framework. The two countries have already established mechanisms for cooperation on narcotics trafficking, precursor chemicals and illicit drug supply chains.“I look forward to continued cooperation through the United States-India Drug Policy Framework,” he added.<h2>India among 23 countries on US list</h2>The latest US determination covers 23 countries designated as major drug transit or illicit drug-producing nations for fiscal year 2027. Apart from India, Pakistan and China are also mentioned in the list.The list also includes Afghanistan, the Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Burma, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and Venezuela.Washington, however, made clear that being placed on the list does not automatically mean a government has failed to combat the drug trade. The designation takes into account geographic, commercial and economic factors that can facilitate the production or transit of drugs and precursor chemicals.<h2>Trump highlights US anti-drug campaign</h2>Trump separately pointed to what he described as “historic progress” by his administration against drug trafficking and narcoterrorist organisations.He cited tighter border security, falling drug seizures and a decline in overdose deaths. “We have inflicted unprecedented losses on our enemies, and we are just getting started,” Trump said.The US determination separately identified Afghanistan, Bolivia, Burma and Colombia as countries that had “failed demonstrably” to make substantial efforts to meet their international counternarcotics obligations.The development comes as Washington and New Delhi continue expanding cooperation on narcotics control, including efforts to disrupt illicit drug networks and secure legitimate pharmaceutical and chemical supply chains.

Trump praised PM Modi’s efforts to curb illicit opium cultivation as India was included in the US list of 23 major drug-producing or transit countries, with Washington stressing the designation does not reflect a government’s anti-drug efforts.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Sep 16) welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to curb illicit opium poppy cultivation in India, even as Washington continues to classify India among countries considered major drug-producing or transit nations. In a statement, the US president said he recognised India’s efforts to tackle illegal opium cultivation and strengthen supply-chain security. “I welcome Prime Minister Modi and the Government of India’s efforts to address illicit opium poppy cultivation and bolster supply chain integrity,” the statement said. Trump also said he looked forward to continued cooperation under the United States-India Drug Policy Framework. The two countries have already established mechanisms for cooperation on narcotics trafficking, precursor chemicals and illicit drug supply chains. “I look forward to continued cooperation through the United States-India Drug Policy Framework,” he added. India among 23 countries on US list The latest US determination covers 23 countries designated as major drug transit or illicit drug-producing nations for fiscal year 2027. Apart from India, Pakistan and China are also mentioned in the list. The list also includes Afghanistan, the Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Burma, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and Venezuela. Washington, however, made clear that being placed on the list does not automatically mean a government has failed to combat the drug trade. The designation takes into account geographic, commercial and economic factors that can facilitate the production or transit of drugs and precursor chemicals. Trump highlights US anti-drug campaign Trump separately pointed to what he described as “historic progress” by his administration against drug trafficking and narcoterrorist organisations. He cited tighter border security, falling drug seizures and a decline in overdose deaths. “We have inflicted unprecedented losses on our enemies, and we are just getting started,” Trump said. The US determination separately identified Afghanistan, Bolivia, Burma and Colombia as countries that had “failed demonstrably” to make substantial efforts to meet their international counternarcotics obligations. The development comes as Washington and New Delhi continue expanding cooperation on narcotics control, including efforts to disrupt illicit drug networks and secure legitimate pharmaceutical and chemical supply chains.

Trump praised PM Modi’s efforts to curb illicit opium cultivation as India was included in the US list of 23 major drug-producing or transit countries, with Washington stressing the designation does not reflect a government’s anti-drug efforts.

Trump backs PM Modi’s anti-opium push even as India remains on US illicit drug-producing list

As Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu seeks a record seventh term in office in the upcoming elections, he continues to advocate a hardline approach when it comes to Palestinians. However, a recent survey has reflected how this stance may not be resonating with many voters any longer.The survey, conducted by the Jewish Public Policy Institute from September 1 to 3, focused on a recent incident in the West Bank's Qusra village.In late August, dozens of masked Israelis arrived in pickup trucks, threw stones at residents and barricaded themselves inside a house. While several Palestinians were wounded, the rioters fled when security forces arrived.According to this survey, one-third of Israelis described these rioters as "Israeli terrorists", whereas another 18 per cent termed them "nationalist criminals". Only 13 per cent of them had a lenient view, calling them young people who sometimes go too far.Crucially, merely 5 per cent of respondents expressed support for the Jewish settlers.Now, the poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents.However, 27 per cent of Jewish Israelis also used the term "Israeli terrorists" for the settlers.This comes at a time when criticism of the Benjamin Netanyahu-led government has been mounting globally over its policies in the West Bank.For instance, the UK accused Israel of turning a blind eye to the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and announced a ban on imports of all goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank.Eleven other countries, including France and Canada, also announced similar plans. This drew a fierce retaliation from Israel, which announced the closure of Britain's consulate in Jerusalem.Palestinians continue to suffer, though.Rescuers were scrambling to recover bodies from a six-storey building in Gaza City after it collapsed overnight following damage sustained in Israeli strikes.According to the local authorities, at least 12 people, including five children, have died, and over 100 people remain missing.With Israel's growing isolation, it remains to be seen whether this will translate into an electoral setback for Netanyahu.

The poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents.

As Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu seeks a record seventh term in office in the upcoming elections, he continues to advocate a hardline approach when it comes to Palestinians. However, a recent survey has reflected how this stance may not be resonating with many voters any longer. The survey, conducted by the Jewish Public Policy Institute from September 1 to 3, focused on a recent incident in the West Bank's Qusra village. In late August, dozens of masked Israelis arrived in pickup trucks, threw stones at residents and barricaded themselves inside a house. While several Palestinians were wounded, the rioters fled when security forces arrived. According to this survey, one-third of Israelis described these rioters as "Israeli terrorists", whereas another 18 per cent termed them "nationalist criminals". Only 13 per cent of them had a lenient view, calling them young people who sometimes go too far. Crucially, merely 5 per cent of respondents expressed support for the Jewish settlers. Now, the poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents. However, 27 per cent of Jewish Israelis also used the term "Israeli terrorists" for the settlers. This comes at a time when criticism of the Benjamin Netanyahu-led government has been mounting globally over its policies in the West Bank. For instance, the UK accused Israel of turning a blind eye to the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and announced a ban on imports of all goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Eleven other countries, including France and Canada, also announced similar plans. This drew a fierce retaliation from Israel, which announced the closure of Britain's consulate in Jerusalem. Palestinians continue to suffer, though. Rescuers were scrambling to recover bodies from a six-storey building in Gaza City after it collapsed overnight following damage sustained in Israeli strikes. According to the local authorities, at least 12 people, including five children, have died, and over 100 people remain missing. With Israel's growing isolation, it remains to be seen whether this will translate into an electoral setback for Netanyahu.

The poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents.

Netanyahu faces heat over settler violence in West Bank ahead of polls | Gravitas

India’s protest after Tuesday's collision in the North Arabian Sea is built around a single clause in a 35-year-old treaty. Article 10 of the April 1991 Agreement on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troop Movements says naval ships and submarines of India and Pakistan “are not to come closer than three nautical miles from each other so as to avoid any accident while operating in international waters.” Three nautical miles is about 5.6km. The rule is a buffer, not a gesture.&nbsp;On the high seas, there is no visible border. Distance is meant to give both sides time to identify the other ship, use the radio and change course before a close encounter becomes a crisis.&nbsp;New Delhi says that buffer was ignored again on 15 September. According to the Indian side, PNS Hunain, a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel, shadowed an Indian warship on a routine surveillance mission about 220km east of Oman, did not heed repeated calls on Channel 16, increased speed and cut across the Indian ship’s bow from starboard. The vessels made contact.&nbsp;India says its ship was not damaged by PNS Hunain returned to harbour with "severe damage". Pakistan has not issued a detailed public statement. India has called the manoeuvre “unacceptable and unprofessional” and a “direct contravention” of Article 10.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-10-convicts-get-death-sentence-in-2013-jhiram-ghati-maoist-attack-that-killed-27-including-senior-congress-leaders-1789575777968">10 convicts get death sentence in 2013 Jhiram Ghati Maoist attack that killed 27, including senior Congress leaders</a>&nbsp;A similar incident happened in June 2011. INS Godavari and PNS Babur came into contact in the Gulf of Aden while both were near MV Suez, a merchant ship recently released by Somali pirates. Then defence minister A.K. Antony told parliament that Babur closed Godavari at high speed from astern and carried out a manoeuvre “in gross violation” of navigational safety rules, lightly damaging a helicopter-deck safety net.&nbsp;India protested under both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and Article 10. A video later circulated of the two ships brushing. Pakistan rejected that account at the time.&nbsp;Two collisions, 15 years apart, do not by themselves prove a standing doctrine. What they do show is a recurring argument over the same measurable rule. Pakistani ship chose the geometry- from astern in 2011, across the bow in 2026, after the Indian vessel was already in the area- and contact followed. What followed was a collision &amp; a conduct unbecoming of the Navy, in this case, the Pakistan Navy.

India has cited Article 10 of the 1991 India-Pakistan agreement after a collision involving PNS Hunain in the North Arabian Sea, saying the Pakistani vessel violated the treaty’s three-nautical-mile safety rule.

India’s protest after Tuesday's collision in the North Arabian Sea is built around a single clause in a 35-year-old treaty. Article 10 of the April 1991 Agreement on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troop Movements says naval ships and submarines of India and Pakistan “are not to come closer than three nautical miles from each other so as to avoid any accident while operating in international waters.” Three nautical miles is about 5.6km. The rule is a buffer, not a gesture. On the high seas, there is no visible border. Distance is meant to give both sides time to identify the other ship, use the radio and change course before a close encounter becomes a crisis. New Delhi says that buffer was ignored again on 15 September. According to the Indian side, PNS Hunain, a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel, shadowed an Indian warship on a routine surveillance mission about 220km east of Oman, did not heed repeated calls on Channel 16, increased speed and cut across the Indian ship’s bow from starboard. The vessels made contact. India says its ship was not damaged by PNS Hunain returned to harbour with "severe damage". Pakistan has not issued a detailed public statement. India has called the manoeuvre “unacceptable and unprofessional” and a “direct contravention” of Article 10. Also Read: 10 convicts get death sentence in 2013 Jhiram Ghati Maoist attack that killed 27, including senior Congress leaders A similar incident happened in June 2011. INS Godavari and PNS Babur came into contact in the Gulf of Aden while both were near MV Suez, a merchant ship recently released by Somali pirates. Then defence minister A.K. Antony told parliament that Babur closed Godavari at high speed from astern and carried out a manoeuvre “in gross violation” of navigational safety rules, lightly damaging a helicopter-deck safety net. India protested under both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and Article 10. A video later circulated of the two ships brushing. Pakistan rejected that account at the time. Two collisions, 15 years apart, do not by themselves prove a standing doctrine. What they do show is a recurring argument over the same measurable rule. Pakistani ship chose the geometry- from astern in 2011, across the bow in 2026, after the Indian vessel was already in the area- and contact followed. What followed was a collision & a conduct unbecoming of the Navy, in this case, the Pakistan Navy.

India has cited Article 10 of the 1991 India-Pakistan agreement after a collision involving PNS Hunain in the North Arabian Sea, saying the Pakistani vessel violated the treaty’s three-nautical-mile safety rule.

What is Article 10 of the 1991 treaty at the centre of Pakistan Navy's 'unprofessional conduct'

Amid deepening of ties between India and Russia, more American tariffs loom large...&nbsp;The US House of Representatives has now advanced a key legislation which will come up for a final vote on Wednesday US time.&nbsp;If cleared, countries like India and China can face US tariffs up to a staggering 100%.&nbsp;This bill, known as the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, was passed by the US Senate in August.&nbsp;It allows US President Donald Trump to impose up to 100% tariffs on countries under two scenarios.&nbsp;First, the country should have made new purchases of oil or natural gas from Russia, and be among their five largest importers in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Alternatively, it applies to the top five countries facilitating Russian oil sanctions evasion in the last 12 months.&nbsp;As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this...&nbsp;But, a key question arises...&nbsp;Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India?&nbsp;It is worth noting that Xi is set to meet Trump on September 24.&nbsp;Opposing this bill though, Democrats warned that enhanced tariffs would drive up gas and food prices in US, adding to the woes of American households.&nbsp;However, the resolution to advance the bill was approved by a 214 to 211 vote with two democratic lawmakers voting in favour of the legislation.&nbsp;Now, Trump's push for tariffs is not new.&nbsp;In August last year, US initially imposed a 25% tariff on the import of Indian goods before raising it to 50% over purchase of Russian oil.&nbsp;In February this year, Trump reduced the tariff to 18% after both countries reached a framework for an interim trade agreement.&nbsp;But after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs, India is subject to a 10% tariff rate.&nbsp;Now, Russia became a major alternative source of crude oil for India owing to disruption of energy supplies from West Asia due to the war.&nbsp;In July, Russia accounted for over half of India's share of crude oil imports.&nbsp;Russian imports were up more than 62% as compared a year ago.&nbsp;In August though, Russian oil imports fell by 26%.&nbsp;America's move also assumes significance, as it comes just days after India, Russia, China and other key countries of the Global South reaffirmed their unity at the BRICS Summit.&nbsp;The bonhomie between PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin was on display yet again.&nbsp;The two leaders reviewed progress in multiple areas including economy, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people exchanges.&nbsp;Additionally, they also shared perspectives on the situation in West Asia as well as Black Sea, where multiple Indian seafarers have lost their lives due to the ongoing Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars.&nbsp;While agreeing to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, PM Modi reiterated the role of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and expressed India's willingness to assist in peace efforts.&nbsp;While the bill is yet to become a law, the question for India remains — How much Russian oil can it continue to buy without triggering US pressure over the pending trade agreement....

As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this. But a key question arises. Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India?

Amid deepening of ties between India and Russia, more American tariffs loom large... The US House of Representatives has now advanced a key legislation which will come up for a final vote on Wednesday US time. If cleared, countries like India and China can face US tariffs up to a staggering 100%. This bill, known as the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, was passed by the US Senate in August. It allows US President Donald Trump to impose up to 100% tariffs on countries under two scenarios. First, the country should have made new purchases of oil or natural gas from Russia, and be among their five largest importers in the last 12 months. Alternatively, it applies to the top five countries facilitating Russian oil sanctions evasion in the last 12 months. As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this... But, a key question arises... Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India? It is worth noting that Xi is set to meet Trump on September 24. Opposing this bill though, Democrats warned that enhanced tariffs would drive up gas and food prices in US, adding to the woes of American households. However, the resolution to advance the bill was approved by a 214 to 211 vote with two democratic lawmakers voting in favour of the legislation. Now, Trump's push for tariffs is not new. In August last year, US initially imposed a 25% tariff on the import of Indian goods before raising it to 50% over purchase of Russian oil. In February this year, Trump reduced the tariff to 18% after both countries reached a framework for an interim trade agreement. But after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs, India is subject to a 10% tariff rate. Now, Russia became a major alternative source of crude oil for India owing to disruption of energy supplies from West Asia due to the war. In July, Russia accounted for over half of India's share of crude oil imports. Russian imports were up more than 62% as compared a year ago. In August though, Russian oil imports fell by 26%. America's move also assumes significance, as it comes just days after India, Russia, China and other key countries of the Global South reaffirmed their unity at the BRICS Summit. The bonhomie between PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin was on display yet again. The two leaders reviewed progress in multiple areas including economy, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people exchanges. Additionally, they also shared perspectives on the situation in West Asia as well as Black Sea, where multiple Indian seafarers have lost their lives due to the ongoing Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars. While agreeing to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, PM Modi reiterated the role of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and expressed India's willingness to assist in peace efforts. While the bill is yet to become a law, the question for India remains — How much Russian oil can it continue to buy without triggering US pressure over the pending trade agreement....

As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this. But a key question arises. Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India?

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