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NATO chief Mark Rutte said that talks on ceasefire and lasting peace in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ukraine">Ukraine</a>, led by US President Donald Trump, were &ldquo;not easy&rdquo;. He also condemned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/russia-0">Russia&rsquo;s </a>&ldquo;terrible pattern&rdquo; of attacks on Ukrainian civilians.
Rutte met with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky during a surprise visit to the port city of Odesa.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-vances-relationship-hits-new-low-us-vp-hits-back-after-ukraine-accuses-us-of-siding-with-russia-8965615">'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance&rsquo;s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia</a>
&ldquo;These discussions are not easy, not least in the wake of this horrific violence. But we all support President Trump's push for peace,&rdquo; he said.
Rutte&rsquo;s comments come after Trump&rsquo;s special envoy Steve Witkoff said that he sees a peace deal &ldquo;emerging&rdquo; following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
<h2>&lsquo;Acute need for air defence systems&rsquo;</h2>
Meanwhile, Zelensky told Rutte Ukraine is in urgent need of air defence systems after recent strikes by Russia that killed dozens of civilians in Sumy on Palm Sunday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
&ldquo;Britain, France and other NATO countries are already actively preparing the ground for a security contingent in Ukraine. It is important that we all be fast enough and efficient in this process,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;Absolutely everyone sees how acute Ukraine&rsquo;s need for air defence systems and missiles is. We talked about this a lot today,&rdquo; the Ukrainian leader added.
Zelensky&rsquo;s comments come after recent Russian strikes that killed 35 people in the north-eastern Sumy region and 19 in his hometown of Kryvyi Rig.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1504_WAR_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1504_WAR_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=173&amp;tags=russia, ukraine, war, news, world news, international" title="Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy " id="PL_iframe_block-m9ioh4xo-dqgq56c5-mg7hqdsi"></iframe>
<h2>Zelensky-Rutte meet</h2>
Following their meeting in Odesa, Zelensky said that he &ldquo;discussed the security of Ukraine, our entire Europe, and the Euro-Atlantic region, as well as relations with all our partners in Europe and America&rdquo; with Rutte.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;The main focus was on strengthening Ukraine&rsquo;s air defense. Absolutely everyone sees how urgent Ukraine's need is for air defense systems and missiles for them,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We are counting on the implementation of our agreements on air defense with partners in Europe and America. Patriot systems are defensive weapons, and we're not just asking for Patriots &mdash; we are ready to purchase them. This is a purely political matter &mdash; the systems are available in the world, the missiles for the Patriots are also available, and whether we will have sufficient protection from Russian ballistic strikes depends entirely on political decisions.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9iofpaf-g0gnfgmg-im6ro7y2">
Today, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecGenNATO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecGenNATO</a> Mark Rutte is in Ukraine. We discussed the security of Ukraine, our entire Europe, and the Euro-Atlantic region, as well as relations with all our partners in Europe and America. The main focus was on strengthening Ukraine&rsquo;s air defense. Absolutely everyone&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/FWOBRCouci">pic.twitter.com/FWOBRCouci</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1912152916082766085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
He added, &ldquo;I am grateful to every leader who does not turn a blind eye to the reality &mdash; that lasting peace can only be achieved through determination. I am grateful to @SecGenNATO for the unwavering support for Ukraine since the earliest days of this war.&rdquo;
(WIth inputs from agencies)

Rutte’s comments come after Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff said that he sees a peace deal “emerging” following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. World

NATO chief Mark Rutte said that talks on ceasefire and lasting peace in Ukraine, led by US President Donald Trump, were “not easy”. He also condemned Russia’s “terrible pattern” of attacks on Ukrainian civilians. Rutte met with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky during a surprise visit to the port city of Odesa. Also read | 'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance’s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia “These discussions are not easy, not least in the wake of this horrific violence. But we all support President Trump's push for peace,” he said. Rutte’s comments come after Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff said that he sees a peace deal “emerging” following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. ‘Acute need for air defence systems’ Meanwhile, Zelensky told Rutte Ukraine is in urgent need of air defence systems after recent strikes by Russia that killed dozens of civilians in Sumy on Palm Sunday. Also read | ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war “Britain, France and other NATO countries are already actively preparing the ground for a security contingent in Ukraine. It is important that we all be fast enough and efficient in this process,” he said. “Absolutely everyone sees how acute Ukraine’s need for air defence systems and missiles is. We talked about this a lot today,” the Ukrainian leader added. Zelensky’s comments come after recent Russian strikes that killed 35 people in the north-eastern Sumy region and 19 in his hometown of Kryvyi Rig. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy Zelensky-Rutte meet Following their meeting in Odesa, Zelensky said that he “discussed the security of Ukraine, our entire Europe, and the Euro-Atlantic region, as well as relations with all our partners in Europe and America” with Rutte. Also read | ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ “The main focus was on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense. Absolutely everyone sees how urgent Ukraine's need is for air defense systems and missiles for them,” he said. “We are counting on the implementation of our agreements on air defense with partners in Europe and America. Patriot systems are defensive weapons, and we're not just asking for Patriots — we are ready to purchase them. This is a purely political matter — the systems are available in the world, the missiles for the Patriots are also available, and whether we will have sufficient protection from Russian ballistic strikes depends entirely on political decisions.” Today, @SecGenNATO Mark Rutte is in Ukraine. We discussed the security of Ukraine, our entire Europe, and the Euro-Atlantic region, as well as relations with all our partners in Europe and America. The main focus was on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense. Absolutely everyone… pic.twitter.com/FWOBRCouci — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 15, 2025 He added, “I am grateful to every leader who does not turn a blind eye to the reality — that lasting peace can only be achieved through determination. I am grateful to @SecGenNATO for the unwavering support for Ukraine since the earliest days of this war.” (WIth inputs from agencies)

US-led peace talks ‘not easy’: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa

US President Donald Trump has accused China of pulling out of a major agreement with Boeing, claiming the country is no longer taking delivery of aircraft it had already committed to buy.
In a post shared on Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump said, &ldquo;Interestingly, they just reneged on the big Boeing deal, saying that they will &lsquo;not take possession&rsquo; of fully committed to aircraft.&rdquo; He also criticised the Biden administration, saying, &ldquo;They had ZERO respect for the Crooked Biden Administration, and who can blame them for that?&rdquo;
The remarks come as tensions rise again between Washington and Beijing, particularly over trade and technology. Boeing, a long-time supplier to Chinese airlines, has struggled with order delays and political complications in recent years.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vs-harvard-us-president-warns-ivy-league-will-be-taxed-if-it-continues-to-support-terrorist-inspired-sickness-8965712">Trump vs Harvard: US president warns Ivy league will be 'taxed' if it continues to support 'terrorist inspired sickness'</a>
<h2>Farmers &lsquo;always put on the Front Line&rsquo;</h2>
Trump also brought up the impact of trade disputes on American farmers, referencing his own previous battles with China. &ldquo;Our farmers are GREAT, but because of their GREATNESS, they are always put on the Front Line with our adversaries, such as China, whenever there is a Trade negotiation or, in this case, a Trade War,&rdquo; he wrote.
He recalled how, during his first term in office, China had been &ldquo;brutal&rdquo; to US farmers. &ldquo;I [told] these Patriots to just hold on, and a great trade deal was made. I rewarded our farmers with a payment of $28 Billion Dollars, all through the China deal.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-could-benefit-from-donald-trumps-intensifying-trade-war-with-china-but-only-if-it-takes-the-leap-explained-pm-modi-tariff-8965563">India could 'benefit' from Trump&rsquo;s intensifying trade war with China but only if it takes the leap | EXPLAINED</a>
<h2>Criticism of Biden&rsquo;s trade policy</h2>
Trump criticised President Joe Biden for not enforcing the terms of that deal, accusing China of failing to hold up its end of the bargain. &ldquo;China largely reneged on the deal (although they behaved during the Trump Administration), only buying a portion of what they agreed to buy,&rdquo; he said.
Wrapping up the post, Trump promised continued support for American agriculture, declaring, &ldquo;The USA will PROTECT OUR FARMERS!!!&rdquo;

World: In a post shared on Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump said, “Interestingly, they just reneged on the big Boeing deal, saying that they will ‘not take possession’ of fully committed to aircraft.”

US President Donald Trump has accused China of pulling out of a major agreement with Boeing, claiming the country is no longer taking delivery of aircraft it had already committed to buy. In a post shared on Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump said, “Interestingly, they just reneged on the big Boeing deal, saying that they will ‘not take possession’ of fully committed to aircraft.” He also criticised the Biden administration, saying, “They had ZERO respect for the Crooked Biden Administration, and who can blame them for that?” The remarks come as tensions rise again between Washington and Beijing, particularly over trade and technology. Boeing, a long-time supplier to Chinese airlines, has struggled with order delays and political complications in recent years. Also read: Trump vs Harvard: US president warns Ivy league will be 'taxed' if it continues to support 'terrorist inspired sickness' Farmers ‘always put on the Front Line’ Trump also brought up the impact of trade disputes on American farmers, referencing his own previous battles with China. “Our farmers are GREAT, but because of their GREATNESS, they are always put on the Front Line with our adversaries, such as China, whenever there is a Trade negotiation or, in this case, a Trade War,” he wrote. He recalled how, during his first term in office, China had been “brutal” to US farmers. “I [told] these Patriots to just hold on, and a great trade deal was made. I rewarded our farmers with a payment of $28 Billion Dollars, all through the China deal.” Also read: India could 'benefit' from Trump’s intensifying trade war with China but only if it takes the leap | EXPLAINED Criticism of Biden’s trade policy Trump criticised President Joe Biden for not enforcing the terms of that deal, accusing China of failing to hold up its end of the bargain. “China largely reneged on the deal (although they behaved during the Trump Administration), only buying a portion of what they agreed to buy,” he said. Wrapping up the post, Trump promised continued support for American agriculture, declaring, “The USA will PROTECT OUR FARMERS!!!”

'China was brutal': Trump rips China for ‘reneging’ on Boeing deal, vows to ‘protect farmers’

US President Donald Trump warned Harvard University that it might lose its "Tax Exempt Status" if it continues to push political and terrorist-inspired "sickness".&nbsp;
This comes amid Trump's announcement to freeze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the Ivy League rejected the Trump administration's demands that it too audit the viewpoints of the student body.&nbsp;
Trump on Tuesday (April 15) said that Harvard might have to pay tax as a political entity.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/barack-obamas-first-reaction-after-harvard-funds-cut-says-university-has-set-an-example-8963677">Barack Obama's first reaction after Harvard funds cut, says university has 'set an example'</a>
"Perhaps Harvard should lose its Tax Exempt Status and be Taxed as a Political Entity if it keeps pushing political, ideological, and terrorist inspired/supporting &ldquo;Sickness?&rdquo; Remember, Tax Exempt Status is totally contingent on acting in the PUBLIC INTEREST!," he posted on Truth Social.
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114342374504628520/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

The US has called out on the nation's most "prestigious universities and colleges".&nbsp;
"Harvard&rsquo;s statement today reinforces the troubling entitlement mindset that is endemic in our nation's most prestigious universities and colleges &ndash; that federal investment does not come with the responsibility to uphold civil rights laws," a statement by the administration's Joint Task Force read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-freezes-22bn-to-harvard-after-college-defies-demands-8962646">Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands</a>
Prior to this, Harvard University made public a letter to students and staff defying a call for changes to its governance, hiring practices and admissions policy from the Trump administration.&nbsp;
Calling it "unacceptable", the university, "The disruption of learning that has plagued campuses in recent years is unacceptable", adding that the harassment of Jewish students is intolerable.
Moreover, former President Barack Obama has backed Harvard University for standing against "unlawful attempts to stifle academic freedom."
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-freezes-2-billion-harvard-funds-over-rejecting-demands-8962894">Trump freezes $2 billion Harvard funds over rejecting demands</a>
"Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions &ndash; rejecting an unlawful and ham-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom while taking concrete steps to make sure all students at Harvard can benefit from an environment of intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate and mutual respect. Let&rsquo;s hope other institutions follow suit," Obama said in a post on X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-zach-yadegari-young-millionaire-rejected-by-ivy-leauges-and-top-american-universities-8919963">Who is Zach Yadegari, young millionaire rejected by Ivy Leagues and top American universities</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

This comes after Trump announced to freeze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the Ivy League rejected the Trump administration's demands. WORLD

US President Donald Trump warned Harvard University that it might lose its "Tax Exempt Status" if it continues to push political and terrorist-inspired "sickness". This comes amid Trump's announcement to freeze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the Ivy League rejected the Trump administration's demands that it too audit the viewpoints of the student body. Trump on Tuesday (April 15) said that Harvard might have to pay tax as a political entity. Also read: Barack Obama's first reaction after Harvard funds cut, says university has 'set an example' "Perhaps Harvard should lose its Tax Exempt Status and be Taxed as a Political Entity if it keeps pushing political, ideological, and terrorist inspired/supporting “Sickness?” Remember, Tax Exempt Status is totally contingent on acting in the PUBLIC INTEREST!," he posted on Truth Social. The US has called out on the nation's most "prestigious universities and colleges". "Harvard’s statement today reinforces the troubling entitlement mindset that is endemic in our nation's most prestigious universities and colleges – that federal investment does not come with the responsibility to uphold civil rights laws," a statement by the administration's Joint Task Force read. Also read: Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands Prior to this, Harvard University made public a letter to students and staff defying a call for changes to its governance, hiring practices and admissions policy from the Trump administration. Calling it "unacceptable", the university, "The disruption of learning that has plagued campuses in recent years is unacceptable", adding that the harassment of Jewish students is intolerable. Moreover, former President Barack Obama has backed Harvard University for standing against "unlawful attempts to stifle academic freedom." WATCH | Trump freezes $2 billion Harvard funds over rejecting demands "Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions – rejecting an unlawful and ham-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom while taking concrete steps to make sure all students at Harvard can benefit from an environment of intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate and mutual respect. Let’s hope other institutions follow suit," Obama said in a post on X. Also read: Who is Zach Yadegari, young millionaire rejected by Ivy Leagues and top American universities (With inputs from agencies)

Trump vs Harvard: US president warns Ivy league will be 'taxed' if it continues to support 'terrorist inspired sickness'

Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelensky</a> and US Vice President JD Vance have once again clashed their metaphorical swords, with both leaders trading sharp words over America&rsquo;s role in the war against Russia.
Speaking on 15 April, Vance hit back at recent comments made by Zelensky, calling it &ldquo;absurd&rdquo; to claim that the United States is siding with Moscow. &ldquo;I think it's sort of absurd for Zelensky to tell the (American) government, which is currently keeping his entire government and war effort together, that we are somehow on the side of the Russians,&rdquo; Vance told Reuters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
His comments followed an earlier interview in which Zelensky accused the US vice president of echoing Kremlin narratives and attempting to justify Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
<h2>'A shift in reality'</h2>
Zelensky, in an interview with CBS News, reflected on his strained meeting with Vance at the White House on 28 February. He described a &ldquo;shift in tone, a shift in reality,&rdquo; and criticised Vance&rsquo;s unwillingness to acknowledge the suffering caused by the war.
During the Oval Office meeting, Zelensky invited Vance to Ukraine to witness the devastation firsthand. Vance declined the offer, accusing Kyiv of organising &ldquo;propaganda tours&rdquo; for Western officials to manipulate views on the war.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
<h2>A long-standing divide</h2>
Vance, a key figure in the Trump administration's "America First" agenda, has long argued against US military aid to Ukraine. He says continued support places an unnecessary burden on American taxpayers and distracts from domestic issues.
Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Vance has been criticised for downplaying the conflict&rsquo;s importance and repeating arguments seen as favourable to Russia. Just days after the war began, he said he &ldquo;doesn't care about Ukraine,&rdquo; a comment he has stood by, saying his focus is on protecting US interests.
"That doesn't mean you morally support the Russian cause, or that you support the full-scale invasion," Vance explained. 
"But you do have to try to understand what are their strategic red lines, in the same way that you have to try to understand what the Ukrainians are trying to get out of the conflict," he added.
<h2>Zelensky warns of Russia&rsquo;s true intentions</h2>
Zelensky, however, has remained firm in his warnings. He insists that Russia is not interested in dialogue but in domination and that Ukraine&rsquo;s only hope lies in continued Western backing, military, financial, and political.
The disagreement between the two leaders highlights the growing divide between Kyiv and parts of the Trump administration, with Vance&rsquo;s latest comments marking another low in their troubled relationship.

World: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with CBS News, reflected on his strained meeting with Vance at the White House on 28 February.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance have once again clashed their metaphorical swords, with both leaders trading sharp words over America’s role in the war against Russia. Speaking on 15 April, Vance hit back at recent comments made by Zelensky, calling it “absurd” to claim that the United States is siding with Moscow. “I think it's sort of absurd for Zelensky to tell the (American) government, which is currently keeping his entire government and war effort together, that we are somehow on the side of the Russians,” Vance told Reuters. Also read: ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war His comments followed an earlier interview in which Zelensky accused the US vice president of echoing Kremlin narratives and attempting to justify Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 'A shift in reality' Zelensky, in an interview with CBS News, reflected on his strained meeting with Vance at the White House on 28 February. He described a “shift in tone, a shift in reality,” and criticised Vance’s unwillingness to acknowledge the suffering caused by the war. During the Oval Office meeting, Zelensky invited Vance to Ukraine to witness the devastation firsthand. Vance declined the offer, accusing Kyiv of organising “propaganda tours” for Western officials to manipulate views on the war. Also read: ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ A long-standing divide Vance, a key figure in the Trump administration's "America First" agenda, has long argued against US military aid to Ukraine. He says continued support places an unnecessary burden on American taxpayers and distracts from domestic issues. Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Vance has been criticised for downplaying the conflict’s importance and repeating arguments seen as favourable to Russia. Just days after the war began, he said he “doesn't care about Ukraine,” a comment he has stood by, saying his focus is on protecting US interests. "That doesn't mean you morally support the Russian cause, or that you support the full-scale invasion," Vance explained. "But you do have to try to understand what are their strategic red lines, in the same way that you have to try to understand what the Ukrainians are trying to get out of the conflict," he added. Zelensky warns of Russia’s true intentions Zelensky, however, has remained firm in his warnings. He insists that Russia is not interested in dialogue but in domination and that Ukraine’s only hope lies in continued Western backing, military, financial, and political. The disagreement between the two leaders highlights the growing divide between Kyiv and parts of the Trump administration, with Vance’s latest comments marking another low in their troubled relationship.

'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance’s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia

India, which is currently facing a whooping 26% tariff from the US, has been pushing hard in recent years to become a manufacturing alternative to China. However now, it seems like it can have that opportunity.&nbsp;
India's biggest economic rival China and countries like Vietnam are facing worse tariffs, imposed by US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
However, India, along with more than 70 countries has got some relief after Trump announced to pause tariffs on these nations, while continuing to bash China with increasing tariffs, making it 145 per cent.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-waives-off-trump-tariffs-on-these-chinese-products-8962784">Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products</a>
<h2>'A significant opportunity'</h2>
Praveen Khandelwal, a member of Parliament from Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said that the sky-high tax on Chinese imports to America presented "a significant opportunity for India&rsquo;s trade and industry."&nbsp;
For the past 10 years, Modi has been aiming for one goal "Make in India", and India has been trying to pitch in China's manufacturing business for a long now, but its factories are not ready.&nbsp;
The Indian government also paid incentives to companies producing goods in strategic sectors, budgeting over $26 billion and tried to attract foreign investments as it seeks to reduce India's dependence on Chinese imports.&nbsp;
Notably, India aimed to create 100 million new manufacturing jobs by 2022.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-trump-effect-in-action-nvidia-to-manufacture-ai-chips-in-us-as-trump-plans-to-announce-semiconductor-tariffs-8962326">&lsquo;The Trump Effect in action&rsquo;: Nvidia to manufacture AI chips in US as Trump plans to announce &lsquo;semiconductor tariffs&rsquo;</a>
<h2>'Foxconn in India'</h2>
However, India has reached some of its goals. One of them was Foxconn, the Taiwanese contract manufacturer, has started making iPhones for Apple in India, moving some work away from China.
China's economy is five time than of India's size, and is the biggest of the Asian countries to have sped toward growth.&nbsp;
As India awaits its breakthrough, under PM Modi's leadership, 10 years has not been enough to train the country's growing workforce to match businesses' needs.&nbsp;
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has noted what insiders are calling a "grand encirclement", a diplomatic and economic coalition with India, Japan, Vietnam and South Korea to isolate Beijing and weaken its grip on global trade.&nbsp;
&ldquo;They&rsquo;ve been good military allies, not perfect economic allies. At the end of the day, we can probably reach an agreement with them. Then we can approach China as a group,&rdquo; Bessent said.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-china-tariff-war-white-house-optimistic-about-a-trade-deal-with-china-8964927">US-China tariff war: White House optimistic about a trade deal with China</a>
According to reports, officials in New Delhi confirmed that they are working on a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the US, spanning digital trade, goods, labour mobility and more.&nbsp;
<h2>'A package deal'</h2>
India is exploring a "package deal" approach, offering sector-specific concessions on textiles, gems, chemicals and agriculture in exchange for US market access and tech collaboration.&nbsp;
&ldquo;India has a lot of elbow room for trade deals with developed nations,&rdquo; India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. &ldquo;But we must be cautious about dumping from China.&rdquo;
Meanwhile, White House insiders said that deals with India are progressing faster than with other countries, thanks in part to shared concerns over China and India&rsquo;s relatively low exposure to US tariffs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-tariff-war-china-accuses-us-of-cyberattacks-issues-arrest-warrants-for-3-nsa-agents-8964606">Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA &lsquo;agents&rsquo;</a>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

PM Modi has been aiming for one goal "Make in India", and India has been trying to pitch in China's manufacturing business for a long now | World, india news

India, which is currently facing a whooping 26% tariff from the US, has been pushing hard in recent years to become a manufacturing alternative to China. However now, it seems like it can have that opportunity. India's biggest economic rival China and countries like Vietnam are facing worse tariffs, imposed by US President Donald Trump. However, India, along with more than 70 countries has got some relief after Trump announced to pause tariffs on these nations, while continuing to bash China with increasing tariffs, making it 145 per cent. Also read: Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products 'A significant opportunity' Praveen Khandelwal, a member of Parliament from Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said that the sky-high tax on Chinese imports to America presented "a significant opportunity for India’s trade and industry." For the past 10 years, Modi has been aiming for one goal "Make in India", and India has been trying to pitch in China's manufacturing business for a long now, but its factories are not ready. The Indian government also paid incentives to companies producing goods in strategic sectors, budgeting over $26 billion and tried to attract foreign investments as it seeks to reduce India's dependence on Chinese imports. Notably, India aimed to create 100 million new manufacturing jobs by 2022. Also read: ‘The Trump Effect in action’: Nvidia to manufacture AI chips in US as Trump plans to announce ‘semiconductor tariffs’ 'Foxconn in India' However, India has reached some of its goals. One of them was Foxconn, the Taiwanese contract manufacturer, has started making iPhones for Apple in India, moving some work away from China. China's economy is five time than of India's size, and is the biggest of the Asian countries to have sped toward growth. As India awaits its breakthrough, under PM Modi's leadership, 10 years has not been enough to train the country's growing workforce to match businesses' needs. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has noted what insiders are calling a "grand encirclement", a diplomatic and economic coalition with India, Japan, Vietnam and South Korea to isolate Beijing and weaken its grip on global trade. “They’ve been good military allies, not perfect economic allies. At the end of the day, we can probably reach an agreement with them. Then we can approach China as a group,” Bessent said. WATCH | US-China tariff war: White House optimistic about a trade deal with China According to reports, officials in New Delhi confirmed that they are working on a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the US, spanning digital trade, goods, labour mobility and more. 'A package deal' India is exploring a "package deal" approach, offering sector-specific concessions on textiles, gems, chemicals and agriculture in exchange for US market access and tech collaboration. “India has a lot of elbow room for trade deals with developed nations,” India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. “But we must be cautious about dumping from China.” Meanwhile, White House insiders said that deals with India are progressing faster than with other countries, thanks in part to shared concerns over China and India’s relatively low exposure to US tariffs. Also read: Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA ‘agents’ (With inputs from agencies)

India could 'benefit' from Trump’s intensifying trade war with China but only if it takes the leap | EXPLAINED

Two Chinese nationals captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine said that they were not sent by their government and had no official ties to Beijing. 
Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on Monday (April 14), the men shared how they ended up on the front line, their experiences under Russian command, and their regrets.
<h2>'Everything the Russians told us was a lie'</h2>
Wang Guangjun, one of the two captured, described being exposed to what he believed was a Russian &ldquo;chemical weapon&rdquo; shortly after his capture. &ldquo;I was losing my strength and fainting&hellip; Then I felt someone grabbing my collar and pulling me out into the fresh air,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-soldiers-fighting-for-russia-against-ukraine-warn-of-death-racism-and-endless-contracts-8954687" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Don&rsquo;t come, there&rsquo;s nothing good here&rsquo;: Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia warn of death, racism, and endless contracts</a>
He claimed that Ukrainian soldiers looked after him during a Russian attack and even helped him survive. &ldquo;(Ukrainian) soldiers protected us and have been treating us well this whole time,&rdquo; Wang added.
Wang and the other captive, Zhang Renbo, were both captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Their detention was made public by President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier in April. Zelensky also said that &ldquo;several hundred&rdquo; Chinese nationals were now fighting for Russia.
<h2>From TikTok to the battlefield</h2>
Wang said he first heard about the chance to join the Russian army while scrolling through TikTok in China. He was unemployed at the time and tempted by what he said was a recruiter&rsquo;s promise of earning 200,000 to 250,000 Russian rubles ($2,000&ndash;$3,000) per month, more than the average wage in China.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-tariff-war-china-accuses-us-of-cyberattacks-issues-arrest-warrants-for-3-nsa-agents-8964606" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA &lsquo;agents&rsquo;</a>
The recruiter also claimed travel and paperwork would be sorted. But according to Wang, none of that materialised. Once in Russia, he said, his phone and bank card were taken away, making it impossible for him to access his money.
Zhang said he had come from a well-off family and had previously worked as a firefighter and rescuer. He travelled to Russia in December, initially for a construction job, but was later pushed into military service. &ldquo;I wanted to make money, but I did not expect to end up in the war,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>No links to Chinese state, captives insist</h2>
Neither Wang nor Zhang would say where in China they were from. But both insisted they were not acting under Chinese government orders and had joined the Russian military of their own free will.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-issues-warning-against-trump-tariffs-as-china-eyes-to-cast-itself-as-leader-in-southeast-asia-8961642" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'No winners in trade war': Xi issues warning against Trump tariffs as China eyes to cast itself as leader in Southeast Asia</a>
Both said they served under Russian commanders who used hand gestures to issue orders. Wang added that escaping the base was nearly impossible due to tight security.
<h2>Discouraging others from joining the war</h2>
At the press conference, the two captives urged other Chinese nationals not to get involved. &ldquo;For those (Chinese) citizens who want to take part in the war, we want to say that they should not do so,&rdquo; Wang warned. &ldquo;Everything we heard from the Russians was a lie. It turned out that Russia is not that strong, and Ukraine is not that weak. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s better not to participate in wars at all,&rdquo; he added.
When asked if Beijing knew of their involvement, both said the Chinese government advises against travelling to war zones. Zhang said that Chinese citizens who fight abroad could face punishment under the law.
Still, both men said they hoped to return to China as part of a future prisoner exchange. &ldquo;I understand that there may be punishment, and I am ready for it. But I still want to return home and to my family,&rdquo; Zhang said.
Wang added, &ldquo;Real war is completely different from what we have seen in movies and on TV. I regret one thing &mdash; I want to apologise to my parents. And my only wish is to go back (to China) and follow all the instructions that will help me do that.&rdquo;

World: At the press conference, the two captives urged other Chinese nationals not to get involved. “For those (Chinese) citizens who want to take part in the war, we want to say that they should not do so,” Wang warned.

Two Chinese nationals captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine said that they were not sent by their government and had no official ties to Beijing. Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on Monday (April 14), the men shared how they ended up on the front line, their experiences under Russian command, and their regrets. 'Everything the Russians told us was a lie' Wang Guangjun, one of the two captured, described being exposed to what he believed was a Russian “chemical weapon” shortly after his capture. “I was losing my strength and fainting… Then I felt someone grabbing my collar and pulling me out into the fresh air,” he said. Also read: ‘Don’t come, there’s nothing good here’: Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia warn of death, racism, and endless contracts He claimed that Ukrainian soldiers looked after him during a Russian attack and even helped him survive. “(Ukrainian) soldiers protected us and have been treating us well this whole time,” Wang added. Wang and the other captive, Zhang Renbo, were both captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Their detention was made public by President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier in April. Zelensky also said that “several hundred” Chinese nationals were now fighting for Russia. From TikTok to the battlefield Wang said he first heard about the chance to join the Russian army while scrolling through TikTok in China. He was unemployed at the time and tempted by what he said was a recruiter’s promise of earning 200,000 to 250,000 Russian rubles ($2,000–$3,000) per month, more than the average wage in China. Also read: Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA ‘agents’ The recruiter also claimed travel and paperwork would be sorted. But according to Wang, none of that materialised. Once in Russia, he said, his phone and bank card were taken away, making it impossible for him to access his money. Zhang said he had come from a well-off family and had previously worked as a firefighter and rescuer. He travelled to Russia in December, initially for a construction job, but was later pushed into military service. “I wanted to make money, but I did not expect to end up in the war,” he said. No links to Chinese state, captives insist Neither Wang nor Zhang would say where in China they were from. But both insisted they were not acting under Chinese government orders and had joined the Russian military of their own free will. Also read: 'No winners in trade war': Xi issues warning against Trump tariffs as China eyes to cast itself as leader in Southeast Asia Both said they served under Russian commanders who used hand gestures to issue orders. Wang added that escaping the base was nearly impossible due to tight security. Discouraging others from joining the war At the press conference, the two captives urged other Chinese nationals not to get involved. “For those (Chinese) citizens who want to take part in the war, we want to say that they should not do so,” Wang warned. “Everything we heard from the Russians was a lie. It turned out that Russia is not that strong, and Ukraine is not that weak. That’s why it’s better not to participate in wars at all,” he added. When asked if Beijing knew of their involvement, both said the Chinese government advises against travelling to war zones. Zhang said that Chinese citizens who fight abroad could face punishment under the law. Still, both men said they hoped to return to China as part of a future prisoner exchange. “I understand that there may be punishment, and I am ready for it. But I still want to return home and to my family,” Zhang said. Wang added, “Real war is completely different from what we have seen in movies and on TV. I regret one thing — I want to apologise to my parents. And my only wish is to go back (to China) and follow all the instructions that will help me do that.”

‘Russia lied’: Chinese fighters captured by Ukraine warn 'real war is different from movies'

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> lashed out at a journalist after she questioned him in the Oval Office on Monday (Apr 14) over the wrongful deportation of an El Salvadoran national.&nbsp;
During the White House visit of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, the CNN journalist, Kaitlan Collins, asked the president why his administration is refusing to comply with a Supreme Court order, which directed the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident. The Salvadoran national was mistakenly deported to El Salvador&rsquo;s notorious CECOT prison last month.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-takeaway-from-trump-bukele-meet-maryland-dad-armando-abrego-garcia-deported-to-el-salvador-8962332">Key takeaway from Trump, Bukele meet? Maryland dad Armando Garcia &lsquo;mistakenly&rsquo; deported to El Salvador won&rsquo;t be returning</a>
Trump took several jabs at Collins, the network&rsquo;s White House correspondent, calling her a &ldquo;low-rated anchor&rdquo;. He also slammed the credibility of CNN as he took questions from the reporters alongside Bukele.
Trump also tapped Homeland Security Adviser Stephen Miller to speak up, taking a shot at the network.
&ldquo;Can you just also respond to that question because you know it&rsquo;s asked by CNN and they always ask it with a slant because they&rsquo;re totally slanted because they don&rsquo;t know what&rsquo;s happening,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s why nobody&rsquo;s watching them.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-praises-nayib-bukele-el-salvador-us-deportees-mega-prison-8962078">&lsquo;One hell of a president&rsquo;: Trump praises &lsquo;world&rsquo;s coolest dictator&rsquo; Bukele as El Salvador jails US deportees in mega-prison</a>
&ldquo;You said if the Supreme Court said someone needed to be returned, you&rsquo;d abide by that,&rdquo; Collins said.
&ldquo;How long do we have to answer this question? Why don&rsquo;t you just say, &lsquo;Isn&rsquo;t it wonderful that we&rsquo;re keeping criminals out of our country?&rsquo; Why can&rsquo;t you just say that? Why do you go over and over &mdash; and that&rsquo;s why nobody watches you anymore. You have no credibility,&rdquo; replied Trump, who was visibly irritated.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9iklqbx-ng0j97w1-6aywgnbm">
Collins: You said if The Supreme Court said if someone needed to be returned, you would abide by that Trump: Why don&rsquo;t you just say isn&rsquo;t it wonderful that we&rsquo;re keeping criminals out of our country? That&rsquo;s why nobody watches you. <a href="https://t.co/ti1z3pJiGW">pic.twitter.com/ti1z3pJiGW</a>
&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1911812958218490149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-erroneously-deports-man-to-el-salvador-says-he-was-member-of-criminal-gang-8915513">Trump administration erroneously deports man to El Salvador, says he was member of criminal gang</a>
<h2>El Salvador man mistakenly deported</h2>
Last week, the Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to &ldquo;facilitate&rdquo; Abrego Garcia&rsquo;s return. Officials have said Garcia&rsquo;s deportation was the result of an &ldquo;administrative error&rdquo;.&nbsp;
However, the Department of Justice has said that the court lacks jurisdiction over a matter of &ldquo;international relations&rdquo;. The Trump administration has claimed Garcia was a member of the violent MS-13 gang.&nbsp;
Watch | El Salvador's President Bukele says he doesn't have power to return Kilmar to US
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1504_HOUSE_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1504_HOUSE_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=291&amp;tags=usa, el slavador, bukele, deportation, kilmar" title="El Salvador's President Bukele says he doesn't have power to return Kilmar to US" id="PL_iframe_block-m9ikjfp3-64h34ebr-bh2zpyrz"></iframe>
During the White House meeting on Monday (Apr 14), Bukele told reporters he had no intention of intervening in Garcia&rsquo;s case.
&ldquo;How can I return him to the United States?&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Like if I smuggle him into the United States?&rdquo;
&ldquo;Of course I&rsquo;m not going to do it,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The question is preposterous. We&rsquo;re not very fond of releasing terrorists.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

The Department of Justice has said that the court lacks jurisdiction over a matter of “international relations”. The Trump administration has claimed Garcia was a member of the violent MS-13 gang. Trending | World

US President Donald Trump lashed out at a journalist after she questioned him in the Oval Office on Monday (Apr 14) over the wrongful deportation of an El Salvadoran national. During the White House visit of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, the CNN journalist, Kaitlan Collins, asked the president why his administration is refusing to comply with a Supreme Court order, which directed the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident. The Salvadoran national was mistakenly deported to El Salvador’s notorious CECOT prison last month. Also read | Key takeaway from Trump, Bukele meet? Maryland dad Armando Garcia ‘mistakenly’ deported to El Salvador won’t be returning Trump took several jabs at Collins, the network’s White House correspondent, calling her a “low-rated anchor”. He also slammed the credibility of CNN as he took questions from the reporters alongside Bukele. Trump also tapped Homeland Security Adviser Stephen Miller to speak up, taking a shot at the network. “Can you just also respond to that question because you know it’s asked by CNN and they always ask it with a slant because they’re totally slanted because they don’t know what’s happening,” Trump said. “That’s why nobody’s watching them.” Also read | ‘One hell of a president’: Trump praises ‘world’s coolest dictator’ Bukele as El Salvador jails US deportees in mega-prison “You said if the Supreme Court said someone needed to be returned, you’d abide by that,” Collins said. “How long do we have to answer this question? Why don’t you just say, ‘Isn’t it wonderful that we’re keeping criminals out of our country?’ Why can’t you just say that? Why do you go over and over — and that’s why nobody watches you anymore. You have no credibility,” replied Trump, who was visibly irritated. Collins: You said if The Supreme Court said if someone needed to be returned, you would abide by that Trump: Why don’t you just say isn’t it wonderful that we’re keeping criminals out of our country? That’s why nobody watches you. pic.twitter.com/ti1z3pJiGW — Acyn (@Acyn) April 14, 2025 Also read | Trump administration erroneously deports man to El Salvador, says he was member of criminal gang El Salvador man mistakenly deported Last week, the Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to “facilitate” Abrego Garcia’s return. Officials have said Garcia’s deportation was the result of an “administrative error”. However, the Department of Justice has said that the court lacks jurisdiction over a matter of “international relations”. The Trump administration has claimed Garcia was a member of the violent MS-13 gang. Watch | El Salvador's President Bukele says he doesn't have power to return Kilmar to US During the White House meeting on Monday (Apr 14), Bukele told reporters he had no intention of intervening in Garcia’s case. “How can I return him to the United States?” he said. “Like if I smuggle him into the United States?” “Of course I’m not going to do it,” he added. “The question is preposterous. We’re not very fond of releasing terrorists.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘How long do we have to answer?’ Trump lashes out at reporter over deportation of El Salvador man | WATCH

US Special Envoy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Steve Witkoff</a> said that his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on a potential peace agreement centred around five disputed regions in Ukraine.
Speaking to Fox News on Monday (April 14), Witkoff described the 11 April meeting in St. Petersburg as &ldquo;compelling&rdquo; and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards &ldquo;a permanent peace,&rdquo; although, he admitted, &ldquo;it took a while for us to get to&rdquo; that point.
&ldquo;This peace deal is about these so-called five territories,&rdquo; he explained. &ldquo;But there&rsquo;s so much more to it. I think we might be on the verge of something that would be very important for the world at large,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Putin-Trump call &lsquo;possible&rsquo;, says Kremlin after Russian leader&rsquo;s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine</a>
Witkoff did not specify the territories in question, but he appeared to be referencing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Moscow claimed the annexation of these four regions in 2022, although parts of them remain under Ukrainian control.
<h2>Business ties and diplomatic warnings</h2>
Witkoff also hinted at a broader aim behind the talks, suggesting that economic cooperation could help stabilise relations between Russia and the US. &ldquo;I see a possibility of reshaping the Russian-United States relationship through some very compelling commercial opportunities,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That gives real stability to the region too,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
However, not everyone in Washington supports the direction of this diplomacy. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg have both urged President Donald Trump not to agree to territorial concessions.
Despite these warnings, Trump is backing Witkoff&rsquo;s approach. According to Reuters, the envoy told the president that recognising Russian control of the four partially occupied regions would be the fastest route to a ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
Witkoff, who has made several trips to Russia this year and now leads Trump&rsquo;s plan to broker a ceasefire, has come under fire for closely aligning with the Kremlin&rsquo;s language, particularly around the issue of territory and the suggestion that peace could be achieved by handing over land.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-blames-zelensky-after-sumy-attack-at-least-35-killed-in-sumy-8962838" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy</a>

World: Witkoff described the meeting in St. Petersburg as “compelling” and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards “a permanent peace.”

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said that his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on a potential peace agreement centred around five disputed regions in Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News on Monday (April 14), Witkoff described the 11 April meeting in St. Petersburg as “compelling” and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards “a permanent peace,” although, he admitted, “it took a while for us to get to” that point. “This peace deal is about these so-called five territories,” he explained. “But there’s so much more to it. I think we might be on the verge of something that would be very important for the world at large,” he added. Also read: Putin-Trump call ‘possible’, says Kremlin after Russian leader’s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine Witkoff did not specify the territories in question, but he appeared to be referencing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Moscow claimed the annexation of these four regions in 2022, although parts of them remain under Ukrainian control. Business ties and diplomatic warnings Witkoff also hinted at a broader aim behind the talks, suggesting that economic cooperation could help stabilise relations between Russia and the US. “I see a possibility of reshaping the Russian-United States relationship through some very compelling commercial opportunities,” he said. “That gives real stability to the region too,” he added. Also read: ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war However, not everyone in Washington supports the direction of this diplomacy. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg have both urged President Donald Trump not to agree to territorial concessions. Despite these warnings, Trump is backing Witkoff’s approach. According to Reuters, the envoy told the president that recognising Russian control of the four partially occupied regions would be the fastest route to a ceasefire. Also read: ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ Witkoff, who has made several trips to Russia this year and now leads Trump’s plan to broker a ceasefire, has come under fire for closely aligning with the Kremlin’s language, particularly around the issue of territory and the suggestion that peace could be achieved by handing over land. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy

What does Putin want now? Trump envoy Witkoff says peace deal hinges on '5 territories' and Ukraine may have to give them up

A Chinese diplomat claimed that a dress worn by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was made in China, amid the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-issues-warning-against-trump-tariffs-as-china-eyes-to-cast-itself-as-leader-in-southeast-asia-8961642">trade war</a> between Washington and Beijing, initiated by President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
The ongoing trade war has been intensifying after Trump imposed tariffs on China, after which it retaliated with retaliatory tariffs.&nbsp;
Chinese envoy Zhang Zhishen stirred a controversy with his post on Leavitt's dress amid the ongoing trade war.&nbsp;
He accused Trump's press secretary of hypocrisy after she appeared in a red lace dress during a briefing, which he claimed was "Made in China".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-alleges-china-vietnam-talks-aimed-at-undermining-us-interests-8964706">Trump alleges China-Vietnam talks aimed at undermining US interests</a>
<h2>'Buying China is life'</h2>
In a social media post on X, Chinese diplomat &nbsp;Zhishen, who serves as the Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Denpasar, shared a picture of the White House secretary, wearing a red dress with black lace on it.&nbsp;
"Accusing China is business. Buying China is life. The beautiful lace on the dress was recognized by an employee of a Chinese company as its product," he claimed in a post on X.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Accusing China is business. Buying China is life. The beautiful lace on the dress was recognized by an employee of a Chinese company as its product. <a href="https://t.co/SfPyM4M02Z">pic.twitter.com/SfPyM4M02Z</a>
&mdash; Zhang Zhisheng 张志昇 (@salahzhang) <a href="https://twitter.com/salahzhang/status/1911665619520630914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Recently, Trump paused tariffs on 75+ countries, but imposed higher tariffs on China, marking the beginning of a trade war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-tariff-war-china-accuses-us-of-cyberattacks-issues-arrest-warrants-for-3-nsa-agents-8964606">Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA &lsquo;agents&rsquo;</a>
To this, China warned Trump and imposed even higher tariffs on the US. On Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that trade wars benefit no one in a thinly veiled message aimed at Trump&rsquo;s continued tariffs on Chinese goods.
China currently faces tariffs as high as 145 percent on several exports to the US. In response, Beijing imposed 125 percent tariffs on American products and has promised to keep retaliating.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-rise-as-china-holds-key-to-uk-steels-survival-8963358">Tensions rise as China holds key to UK Steel&rsquo;s survival</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

He accused Trump's press secretary of hypocrisy after she appeared in a red lace dress during a briefing, which he claimed was "Made in China" | World

A Chinese diplomat claimed that a dress worn by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was made in China, amid the ongoing trade war between Washington and Beijing, initiated by President Donald Trump. The ongoing trade war has been intensifying after Trump imposed tariffs on China, after which it retaliated with retaliatory tariffs. Chinese envoy Zhang Zhishen stirred a controversy with his post on Leavitt's dress amid the ongoing trade war. He accused Trump's press secretary of hypocrisy after she appeared in a red lace dress during a briefing, which he claimed was "Made in China". Also read: Trump alleges China-Vietnam talks aimed at undermining US interests 'Buying China is life' In a social media post on X, Chinese diplomat Zhishen, who serves as the Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Denpasar, shared a picture of the White House secretary, wearing a red dress with black lace on it. "Accusing China is business. Buying China is life. The beautiful lace on the dress was recognized by an employee of a Chinese company as its product," he claimed in a post on X. Accusing China is business. Buying China is life. The beautiful lace on the dress was recognized by an employee of a Chinese company as its product. pic.twitter.com/SfPyM4M02Z — Zhang Zhisheng 张志昇 (@salahzhang) April 14, 2025 Recently, Trump paused tariffs on 75+ countries, but imposed higher tariffs on China, marking the beginning of a trade war. Also read: Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA ‘agents’ To this, China warned Trump and imposed even higher tariffs on the US. On Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that trade wars benefit no one in a thinly veiled message aimed at Trump’s continued tariffs on Chinese goods. China currently faces tariffs as high as 145 percent on several exports to the US. In response, Beijing imposed 125 percent tariffs on American products and has promised to keep retaliating. WATCH | Tensions rise as China holds key to UK Steel’s survival (With inputs from agencies)

'Buying China is life': Trump's press secretary wears 'Made in China' dress, Chinese envoy claims amid raging trade war

NASA's Indian-origin chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) officer, Neela Rajendra has been fired. This comes after the space agency reportedly changed her designation to ensure she is safe amid US President Donald Trump's job slashing spree.
According to reports, her department was changed to Office of Team Excellence and Employee Success. Rajendra had run NASA's central diversity office, during which she once argued that deadlines for projects undermine inclusion.&nbsp;
Rajendra had updated her LinkedIn profile two months ago, in which she mentioned her new post in NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
In another post, she wrote,"This is why I show up everyday at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. We help humanity see itself for who we all are&mdash;beautiful, fragile, alone and yet also, not alone. I hope this image brings some comfort in the uncertainty facing our communities, whether it&rsquo;s from fires or anything else."
Rajendra had made efforts to diversify NASA, which included promoting the &ldquo;Space Workforce 2030" pledge. She also focused on hiring women and minorities.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/lost-in-space-for-67-years-nasa-plans-to-bring-the-worlds-oldest-satellite-vanguard-back-to-earth-8957765">'Lost in space for 67 years': NASA plans to bring the world's oldest satellite 'Vanguard' back to Earth</a>
US President Donald Trump has been ambitious about his Mars mission. The president is keen on sending astronauts to the red planet; this is when two NASA astronauts are already looking to be back home from a lunar mission at the earliest after repeated delays. And now, what comes as a big blow to the space agency are the layoffs. NASA was made to eliminate the post of chief scientist along with two other departments. Katharine Calvin, chief scientist, was appointed by former President Joe Biden to bolster climate change initiatives.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/microbial-life-nasas-insight-mission-may-have-discovered-liquid-water-beneath-mars-surface-8955316">&lsquo;Microbial life&rsquo;: NASA&rsquo;s InSight mission may have discovered liquid water beneath Mars&rsquo; surface</a>
Ever since Trump assumed office on January 20, the Department of Government Efficiency, spearheaded by Elon Musk, has been slashing jobs under the pretext of cost-cutting. A month ago, the White House issued an order to implement downsizing of teams. The move was initiated for 'reforming the federal workforce to maximise efficiency and productivity'.

NASA's Indian-origin chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) officer, Neela Rajendra has been fired. This comes after the space agency reportedly changed her designation to ensure she is safe amid Trump's job slashing spree. World

NASA's Indian-origin chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) officer, Neela Rajendra has been fired. This comes after the space agency reportedly changed her designation to ensure she is safe amid US President Donald Trump's job slashing spree. According to reports, her department was changed to Office of Team Excellence and Employee Success. Rajendra had run NASA's central diversity office, during which she once argued that deadlines for projects undermine inclusion. Rajendra had updated her LinkedIn profile two months ago, in which she mentioned her new post in NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In another post, she wrote,"This is why I show up everyday at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. We help humanity see itself for who we all are—beautiful, fragile, alone and yet also, not alone. I hope this image brings some comfort in the uncertainty facing our communities, whether it’s from fires or anything else." Rajendra had made efforts to diversify NASA, which included promoting the “Space Workforce 2030" pledge. She also focused on hiring women and minorities. Also read: 'Lost in space for 67 years': NASA plans to bring the world's oldest satellite 'Vanguard' back to Earth US President Donald Trump has been ambitious about his Mars mission. The president is keen on sending astronauts to the red planet; this is when two NASA astronauts are already looking to be back home from a lunar mission at the earliest after repeated delays. And now, what comes as a big blow to the space agency are the layoffs. NASA was made to eliminate the post of chief scientist along with two other departments. Katharine Calvin, chief scientist, was appointed by former President Joe Biden to bolster climate change initiatives. Also read: ‘Microbial life’: NASA’s InSight mission may have discovered liquid water beneath Mars’ surface Ever since Trump assumed office on January 20, the Department of Government Efficiency, spearheaded by Elon Musk, has been slashing jobs under the pretext of cost-cutting. A month ago, the White House issued an order to implement downsizing of teams. The move was initiated for 'reforming the federal workforce to maximise efficiency and productivity'.

Who is Neela Rajendra - Why did NASA fire the Indian-origin officer on Trump's orders?

At least three police officers were killed and 16 others injured on Tuesday after a bus carrying police personnel exploded in the Pakistani province of Balochistan. While no group has claimed the attack, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is the most active group in the region that carries out such deadly attacks on security forces.
The blast was reportedly caused by an improvised roadside bomb in Mastung district, around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the provincial capital, Quetta.
&ldquo;An explosive device exploded in the Mastung district, targeting a police bus coming from Kalat. Three members of the Balochistan Police were killed in the explosion. Sixteen members of this institution were injured,&rdquo; Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind told the EFE news agency. &ldquo;All the injured have been taken to the hospital, while the seriously injured are being transferred to Quetta. The condition of two of those injured is critical,&rdquo; the spokesman said.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-tariff-war-china-accuses-us-of-cyberattacks-issues-arrest-warrants-for-3-nsa-agents-8964606" rel="dofollow">Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA &lsquo;agents&rsquo;</a> Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the attack and vowed to continue the &ldquo;fight against terrorism&rdquo;. Authorities in the conflict-ridden Balochistan region, bordering Afghanistan and Iran, have requested an investigation report into the incident. Pakistani authorities have been fighting a separatist insurgency in Balochistan for decades, with militants targeting security forces as well as foreign nationals. The mineral-rich southwestern province borders Afghanistan and Iran. The situation in Balochistan has become increasingly tense recently after several Baloch separatist groups announced the formation of a common armed front on March 2. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-passes-constitutional-amendment-to-limit-rights-of-dual-nationals-ban-lgbtq-events-8962699" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events</a> The violence escalated significantly with the hijacking of the Jaffar Express passenger train with more than 400 people on board on March 11. The hijacking, claimed by the BLA, ended after a 48-hour operation by security forces in which 33 insurgents were killed. In addition, 26 people, including 18 soldiers, three railway employees, and five civilians, were killed. On March 27, three people were killed and twenty others injured in a bomb attack on a police vehicle in Quetta. The rise in insurgent attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, has been linked to the Taliban&rsquo;s resurgence in Afghanistan, with Pakistan accusing the Afghan government of harbouring militant groups.

World | Pakistan: The situation in Balochistan has become increasingly tense recently after several Baloch separatist groups announced the formation of a common armed front on March 2.

At least three police officers were killed and 16 others injured on Tuesday after a bus carrying police personnel exploded in the Pakistani province of Balochistan. While no group has claimed the attack, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is the most active group in the region that carries out such deadly attacks on security forces. The blast was reportedly caused by an improvised roadside bomb in Mastung district, around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the provincial capital, Quetta. “An explosive device exploded in the Mastung district, targeting a police bus coming from Kalat. Three members of the Balochistan Police were killed in the explosion. Sixteen members of this institution were injured,” Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind told the EFE news agency. “All the injured have been taken to the hospital, while the seriously injured are being transferred to Quetta. The condition of two of those injured is critical,” the spokesman said. Also Read | Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA ‘agents’ Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the attack and vowed to continue the “fight against terrorism”. Authorities in the conflict-ridden Balochistan region, bordering Afghanistan and Iran, have requested an investigation report into the incident. Pakistani authorities have been fighting a separatist insurgency in Balochistan for decades, with militants targeting security forces as well as foreign nationals. The mineral-rich southwestern province borders Afghanistan and Iran. The situation in Balochistan has become increasingly tense recently after several Baloch separatist groups announced the formation of a common armed front on March 2. Also read: Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events The violence escalated significantly with the hijacking of the Jaffar Express passenger train with more than 400 people on board on March 11. The hijacking, claimed by the BLA, ended after a 48-hour operation by security forces in which 33 insurgents were killed. In addition, 26 people, including 18 soldiers, three railway employees, and five civilians, were killed. On March 27, three people were killed and twenty others injured in a bomb attack on a police vehicle in Quetta. The rise in insurgent attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, has been linked to the Taliban’s resurgence in Afghanistan, with Pakistan accusing the Afghan government of harbouring militant groups.

Three policemen killed, 16 injured in IED blast in Pakistan’s Balochistan

Donald Trump suggested that China's efforts to strengthen economic ties with Vietnam was likely a strategy to &ldquo;screw&rdquo; the United States.
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t blame China. I don&rsquo;t blame Vietnam. I don&rsquo;t. I see they&rsquo;re meeting today. Is that wonderful? That&rsquo;s a lovely meeting &hellip; like trying to figure out, how do we screw the United States of America?&rdquo; he told reporters in the Oval Office, claiming that Joe Biden had lost &ldquo;trillions of dollars&rdquo; in trade to China.
Trump's comments came while discussing tariffs and potential exemptions for automobiles and auto parts.
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t blame President Xi,&rdquo; he said in the Oval Office during a joint news briefing with El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. &ldquo;I like him. He likes me. I mean, you know, who knows?&rdquo;
Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Monday, met Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and To Lam, the nation&rsquo;s Communist Party general secretary.
He said, &ldquo;We must strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateral bullying, and uphold the stability of the global free trade system as well as industrial and supply chains.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<h2>'No winners in trade war': Xi issues warning against Trump tariffs&nbsp;</h2>
The Chinese president has warned that trade wars benefit no one in a thinly veiled message aimed at Trump&rsquo;s continued tariffs on Chinese goods. Xi&rsquo;s comments were made as he set off on a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, which includes stops in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
The warning appeared in a joint editorial published in Chinese and Vietnamese media just before he arrived in Hanoi. Experts believe the trip is part of a wider attempt by China to present itself as a responsible global power, in contrast to Trump&rsquo;s more aggressive approach.
&ldquo;Trade war and tariff war will produce no winner, and protectionism will lead nowhere,&rdquo; Xi wrote, without directly naming the United States or President Trump. &ldquo;Our two countries should resolutely safeguard the multilateral trading system, stable global industrial and supply chains, and open and cooperative international environment.&rdquo;

World news: Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Monday, met Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and To Lam, the nation’s Communist Party general secretary.

Donald Trump suggested that China's efforts to strengthen economic ties with Vietnam was likely a strategy to “screw” the United States. “I don’t blame China. I don’t blame Vietnam. I don’t. I see they’re meeting today. Is that wonderful? That’s a lovely meeting … like trying to figure out, how do we screw the United States of America?” he told reporters in the Oval Office, claiming that Joe Biden had lost “trillions of dollars” in trade to China. Trump's comments came while discussing tariffs and potential exemptions for automobiles and auto parts. “I don’t blame President Xi,” he said in the Oval Office during a joint news briefing with El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. “I like him. He likes me. I mean, you know, who knows?” Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Monday, met Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and To Lam, the nation’s Communist Party general secretary. He said, “We must strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateral bullying, and uphold the stability of the global free trade system as well as industrial and supply chains.” 'No winners in trade war': Xi issues warning against Trump tariffs The Chinese president has warned that trade wars benefit no one in a thinly veiled message aimed at Trump’s continued tariffs on Chinese goods. Xi’s comments were made as he set off on a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, which includes stops in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. The warning appeared in a joint editorial published in Chinese and Vietnamese media just before he arrived in Hanoi. Experts believe the trip is part of a wider attempt by China to present itself as a responsible global power, in contrast to Trump’s more aggressive approach. “Trade war and tariff war will produce no winner, and protectionism will lead nowhere,” Xi wrote, without directly naming the United States or President Trump. “Our two countries should resolutely safeguard the multilateral trading system, stable global industrial and supply chains, and open and cooperative international environment.”

Trump alleges China-Vietnam talks aimed at undermining US interests

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) was allegedly offered a curious path to warming relations with President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-trump-fix-the-nuclear-deal-with-iran-he-broke-in-2018-8964700" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a>,&nbsp;giving his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., his program.
According to journalist Michael Wolff&rsquo;s new piece for New York Magazine, someone close to the Trump camp suggested to the media company that Trump Jr. was interested in hosting a hunting and fishing series on the Discovery Channel. The article is part of a broader profile of WBD CEO David Zaslav.
Wolff, known for several books on Trump&rsquo;s political rise and presidency, often criticised by the former president&rsquo;s allies, claimed, &ldquo;WBD confirmed that a company representative recently reached out to the Trump orbit seeking advice about how the company might advantageously interact with the White House and improve its Trump-age odour.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-takeaway-from-trump-bukele-meet-maryland-dad-armando-abrego-garcia-deported-to-el-salvador-8962332" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Key takeaway from Trump, Bukele meet? Maryland dad Armando Garcia &lsquo;mistakenly&rsquo; deported to El Salvador won&rsquo;t be returning</a>
The article suggests the pitch also included the idea that CNN, owned by WBD, could benefit from including more pro-Trump voices. WBD owns not just the Discovery Channel but also the streaming platform Max and several high-profile media assets, including CNN, which has long been a target of Trump&rsquo;s criticism.
Wolff also wrote that Trump&rsquo;s circle pointed to Amazon&rsquo;s reported $40 million payment to Melania Trump for a documentary as an example. &ldquo;Don Jr. might like a hunting and fishing show on the Discovery Channel, they were told,&rdquo; the piece reads.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-car-companies-need-time-looking-to-help-some-auto-stocks-rise-8962349" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump says &lsquo;car companies need time, looking to help some&rsquo;; auto stocks rise</a>
<h2>Trump camp hits back at Wolff</h2>
In response to the claims, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung issued a sharp rebuke. Speaking to the Daily Beast, he said, &ldquo;Michael Wolff is a lying sack of s--- and has been proven to be a fraud. He routinely fabricates stories originating from his sick and warped imagination, only possible because he has a severe and debilitating case of Trump Derangement Syndrome that has rotted his peanut-sized brain.&rdquo;
Cheung previously criticised Wolff over his recent book All or Nothing, 'How Trump Recaptured America,' which focused on Trump&rsquo;s current presidential campaign. When asked about the claims in February, he repeated similar remarks, dismissing Wolff&rsquo;s reporting as fiction.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talks-us-president-trump-asserts-iran-cannot-have-nuclear-weapon-8963642" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US-Iran talks: US President Trump asserts 'Iran cannot have nuclear weapon'</a>
<h2>Media industry feels pressure under Trump</h2>
This alleged attempt by WBD to stay on good terms with the Trump White House highlights how media organisations are trying to navigate a new political climate under Trump&rsquo;s second term.
In a related move, Paramount Global has reportedly cut back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The move is seen as a bid to align more closely with Trump administration preferences as the company seeks regulatory approval for a merger with Skydance Media.

World: In response to the claims, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said, “Michael Wolff is a lying sack of s--- and has been proven to be a fraud."

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) was allegedly offered a curious path to warming relations with President Donald Trump, giving his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., his program. According to journalist Michael Wolff’s new piece for New York Magazine, someone close to the Trump camp suggested to the media company that Trump Jr. was interested in hosting a hunting and fishing series on the Discovery Channel. The article is part of a broader profile of WBD CEO David Zaslav. Wolff, known for several books on Trump’s political rise and presidency, often criticised by the former president’s allies, claimed, “WBD confirmed that a company representative recently reached out to the Trump orbit seeking advice about how the company might advantageously interact with the White House and improve its Trump-age odour.” Also read: Key takeaway from Trump, Bukele meet? Maryland dad Armando Garcia ‘mistakenly’ deported to El Salvador won’t be returning The article suggests the pitch also included the idea that CNN, owned by WBD, could benefit from including more pro-Trump voices. WBD owns not just the Discovery Channel but also the streaming platform Max and several high-profile media assets, including CNN, which has long been a target of Trump’s criticism. Wolff also wrote that Trump’s circle pointed to Amazon’s reported $40 million payment to Melania Trump for a documentary as an example. “Don Jr. might like a hunting and fishing show on the Discovery Channel, they were told,” the piece reads. Also read: Trump says ‘car companies need time, looking to help some’; auto stocks rise Trump camp hits back at Wolff In response to the claims, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung issued a sharp rebuke. Speaking to the Daily Beast, he said, “Michael Wolff is a lying sack of s--- and has been proven to be a fraud. He routinely fabricates stories originating from his sick and warped imagination, only possible because he has a severe and debilitating case of Trump Derangement Syndrome that has rotted his peanut-sized brain.” Cheung previously criticised Wolff over his recent book All or Nothing, 'How Trump Recaptured America,' which focused on Trump’s current presidential campaign. When asked about the claims in February, he repeated similar remarks, dismissing Wolff’s reporting as fiction. Watch: US-Iran talks: US President Trump asserts 'Iran cannot have nuclear weapon' Media industry feels pressure under Trump This alleged attempt by WBD to stay on good terms with the Trump White House highlights how media organisations are trying to navigate a new political climate under Trump’s second term. In a related move, Paramount Global has reportedly cut back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The move is seen as a bid to align more closely with Trump administration preferences as the company seeks regulatory approval for a merger with Skydance Media.

How to curry favour with Trump? Offer his son Don Jr. a Discovery Channel show

The European Commission has issued burner phones and stripped-down laptops to senior officials travelling to the US, over spying risk.&nbsp;
This level of precaution was previously reserved for trips to China and Ukraine, according to the UK-based Financial Times.
This reflects the heightened tensions, mistrust and strained relations, and a shift in how Brussels views Washington under the current US administration.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-bidens-war-eu-convenes-emergency-talks-after-trump-calls-russian-strike-on-ukraine-a-mistake-8960870">&lsquo;This is Biden&rsquo;s war&rsquo;: EU convenes emergency talks after Trump calls Russian strike on Ukraine a &lsquo;mistake&rsquo;</a>
These spy-proof gears will be issued to commissioners and high-ranking officials who will be traveling to the US next week for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank spring meetings.&nbsp;
The EU delegation, who will be attending the next week's meetings, includes Valdis Dombrovskis (Economy), Maria Lu&iacute;s Albuquerque (Financial Services), and Jozef S&iacute;kela (Development Assistance).&nbsp;
They are expected to represent the EU in high-level talks, even as security and trust concerns cast a long shadow over diplomatic exchanges.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-waives-off-trump-tariffs-on-these-chinese-products-8962784">Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products</a>
One of the officials said, "They are worried about the US getting into the commission systems."
The US-bound staff should switch off their phones at the border and put them in special sleeves to protect them from surveillance if left unattended, according to people familiar with the situation. &nbsp;
Such kinds of measures are traditionally reserved for countries like China and Ukraine, where standard IT kits can't be brought into the countries given the risk of espionage, according to officials.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-trump-effect-in-action-nvidia-to-manufacture-ai-chips-in-us-as-trump-plans-to-announce-semiconductor-tariffs-8962326">&lsquo;The Trump Effect in action&rsquo;: Nvidia to manufacture AI chips in US as Trump plans to announce &lsquo;semiconductor tariffs&rsquo;</a>
However, the European Commission refused to comment on the issue. It said that the commission's diplomatic service had been routinely involved in such security updates.&nbsp;
This comes amid the EU and the US have been tied in a trade war since President Donald Trump returned to the Oval Office. Trump claimed that the EU was set up to "screw the US" and set 20 per cent reciprocal tariffs on its exports, however, he later announced a 90-day pause on the tariffs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-freezes-22bn-to-harvard-after-college-defies-demands-8962646">Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands</a>
(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; &nbsp;

World: This reflects the heightened tensions, mistrust and strained relations, and a shift in how Brussels views Washington under the current US administration.

The European Commission has issued burner phones and stripped-down laptops to senior officials travelling to the US, over spying risk. This level of precaution was previously reserved for trips to China and Ukraine, according to the UK-based Financial Times. This reflects the heightened tensions, mistrust and strained relations, and a shift in how Brussels views Washington under the current US administration. Also read: ‘This is Biden’s war’: EU convenes emergency talks after Trump calls Russian strike on Ukraine a ‘mistake’ These spy-proof gears will be issued to commissioners and high-ranking officials who will be traveling to the US next week for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank spring meetings. The EU delegation, who will be attending the next week's meetings, includes Valdis Dombrovskis (Economy), Maria Luís Albuquerque (Financial Services), and Jozef Síkela (Development Assistance). They are expected to represent the EU in high-level talks, even as security and trust concerns cast a long shadow over diplomatic exchanges. Also read: Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products One of the officials said, "They are worried about the US getting into the commission systems." The US-bound staff should switch off their phones at the border and put them in special sleeves to protect them from surveillance if left unattended, according to people familiar with the situation. Such kinds of measures are traditionally reserved for countries like China and Ukraine, where standard IT kits can't be brought into the countries given the risk of espionage, according to officials. Also read: ‘The Trump Effect in action’: Nvidia to manufacture AI chips in US as Trump plans to announce ‘semiconductor tariffs’ However, the European Commission refused to comment on the issue. It said that the commission's diplomatic service had been routinely involved in such security updates. This comes amid the EU and the US have been tied in a trade war since President Donald Trump returned to the Oval Office. Trump claimed that the EU was set up to "screw the US" and set 20 per cent reciprocal tariffs on its exports, however, he later announced a 90-day pause on the tariffs. Also read: Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands (With inputs from agencies)

EU scared of US spying into commission systems? Issues burner phones to officials over security fears

Chinese cybersecurity officials on Tuesday accused the United States of launching cyberattacks and issued arrest warrants against three US individuals working in the US National Security Agency (NSA)&rsquo;s Office of Tailored Access Operations&mdash;an intelligence-gathering unit on cyber warfare.&nbsp; In a statement released on Chinese social media platform Weibo, the officials also offered a cash reward for people providing any information that could lead to the arrest of the three accused US nationals allegedly involved in a spate of cyberattacks.
Opening a new front against Washington even as the tariff battle between China and the United States is still far from abating, Chinese security officials claimed that three NSA agents attacked the information infrastructure during the 9th Asian Winter Games held in the northeastern city of Harbin in February.
These hackers also &ldquo;repeatedly carried out cyberattacks&rdquo; on the Chinese telecommunication company Huawei and other businesses, Chinese state news agency Xinhua said.
The three NSA &lsquo;agents&rsquo; have been added to a wanted list by police in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin for allegedly taking part in cyberattacks during the Asian Winter Games held in the city in February. Chinese cybersecurity experts accused the individuals of using artificial intelligence (AI) to launch the attacks. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-freezes-22bn-to-harvard-after-college-defies-demands-8962646" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands</a>&nbsp; &ldquo;The Harbin Municipal Public Security Bureau has issued [arrest] warrants for three suspects linked to the US National Security Agency: Katheryn A. Wilson, Robert J. Snelling, and Stephen W. Johnson,&rdquo; the authorities said in a notice. &ldquo;Investigations revealed that these three agents repeatedly participated in cyberattacks on China&rsquo;s critical information infrastructure and in hacking activities against enterprises such as Huawei,&rdquo; the warrant stated.&nbsp; The police also accused the University of California and Virginia Tech of being involved in the cyberattacks, but did not share details of their involvement. The NSA also launched cyberattacks on &ldquo;key sectors such as energy, transport, water conservancy, communications and national defence research institutes&rdquo; in Heilongjiang province, where Harbin is located, the Xinhua report said. The aim was to &ldquo;damage critical information infrastructure, cause social disorder, and steal important confidential information&rdquo;, it added. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-passes-constitutional-amendment-to-limit-rights-of-dual-nationals-ban-lgbtq-events-8962699" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events</a> Xinhua also reported that the NSA had activated covert back-door programmes on some devices in Heilongjiang that were running the Windows operating system. China&rsquo;s National Computer Virus Emergency Response Centre (CVERC) and the National Engineering Laboratory for Computer Virus Prevention and Control Technology released a report on April 3 stating that the Asian Winter Games&rsquo; event information system &ldquo;was hit by 270,167 cyberattacks from abroad&rdquo; between January 26 and February 14. Du Zhenhua, a CVERC engineer, told state broadcaster CCTV in an interview on April 3 that the attacks came mainly from the US, but also used IP addresses in the Netherlands as a &ldquo;springboard&rdquo; to launch the attacks. Zhou Hongyi, founder of Chinese cybersecurity firm 360 Security Technology, which was involved in the investigation, told CCTV that the NSA&rsquo;s attacks &ldquo;used AI to plan attack scenarios, explore vulnerabilities and monitor traffic, and some attack codes were obviously written by AI&rdquo;. Zhou added that Chinese cybersecurity experts had spent nearly a decade building a &ldquo;tactical knowledge base&rdquo; of US cyberattack methods. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-chief-mark-zuckerberg-testifies-at-landmark-us-antitrust-trial-heres-what-happened-8962744" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened</a> Experts advised Chinese institutions and individuals with access to classified information to &ldquo;avoid using non-domestic, especially American, information technology products&rdquo;. Meanwhile, in March, the US and UK had accused Beijing of a cyberespionage campaign targeting White House employees, US senators, British parliamentarians, academics, journalists, and government officials across the world who criticised Beijing.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: “Investigations revealed that these three agents repeatedly participated in cyberattacks on China’s critical information infrastructure and in hacking activities against enterprises such as Huawei,” the warrant stated.

Chinese cybersecurity officials on Tuesday accused the United States of launching cyberattacks and issued arrest warrants against three US individuals working in the US National Security Agency (NSA)’s Office of Tailored Access Operations—an intelligence-gathering unit on cyber warfare. In a statement released on Chinese social media platform Weibo, the officials also offered a cash reward for people providing any information that could lead to the arrest of the three accused US nationals allegedly involved in a spate of cyberattacks. Opening a new front against Washington even as the tariff battle between China and the United States is still far from abating, Chinese security officials claimed that three NSA agents attacked the information infrastructure during the 9th Asian Winter Games held in the northeastern city of Harbin in February. These hackers also “repeatedly carried out cyberattacks” on the Chinese telecommunication company Huawei and other businesses, Chinese state news agency Xinhua said. The three NSA ‘agents’ have been added to a wanted list by police in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin for allegedly taking part in cyberattacks during the Asian Winter Games held in the city in February. Chinese cybersecurity experts accused the individuals of using artificial intelligence (AI) to launch the attacks. Also read: Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands “The Harbin Municipal Public Security Bureau has issued [arrest] warrants for three suspects linked to the US National Security Agency: Katheryn A. Wilson, Robert J. Snelling, and Stephen W. Johnson,” the authorities said in a notice. “Investigations revealed that these three agents repeatedly participated in cyberattacks on China’s critical information infrastructure and in hacking activities against enterprises such as Huawei,” the warrant stated. The police also accused the University of California and Virginia Tech of being involved in the cyberattacks, but did not share details of their involvement. The NSA also launched cyberattacks on “key sectors such as energy, transport, water conservancy, communications and national defence research institutes” in Heilongjiang province, where Harbin is located, the Xinhua report said. The aim was to “damage critical information infrastructure, cause social disorder, and steal important confidential information”, it added. Also read: Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events Xinhua also reported that the NSA had activated covert back-door programmes on some devices in Heilongjiang that were running the Windows operating system. China’s National Computer Virus Emergency Response Centre (CVERC) and the National Engineering Laboratory for Computer Virus Prevention and Control Technology released a report on April 3 stating that the Asian Winter Games’ event information system “was hit by 270,167 cyberattacks from abroad” between January 26 and February 14. Du Zhenhua, a CVERC engineer, told state broadcaster CCTV in an interview on April 3 that the attacks came mainly from the US, but also used IP addresses in the Netherlands as a “springboard” to launch the attacks. Zhou Hongyi, founder of Chinese cybersecurity firm 360 Security Technology, which was involved in the investigation, told CCTV that the NSA’s attacks “used AI to plan attack scenarios, explore vulnerabilities and monitor traffic, and some attack codes were obviously written by AI”. Zhou added that Chinese cybersecurity experts had spent nearly a decade building a “tactical knowledge base” of US cyberattack methods. Also read: Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened Experts advised Chinese institutions and individuals with access to classified information to “avoid using non-domestic, especially American, information technology products”. Meanwhile, in March, the US and UK had accused Beijing of a cyberespionage campaign targeting White House employees, US senators, British parliamentarians, academics, journalists, and government officials across the world who criticised Beijing.

Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA ‘agents’

US Geological Survey said that a 5.2-magnitude earthquake shook Southern California on Monday morning, with the tremor centred 2.5 miles (four kilometres) south of Julian, which is around 20 miles from the US border with Mexico. It was eight miles deep and was followed by several aftershocks. There were no immediate reports of death or serious damage, and scientists said structural problems were unlikely.&nbsp;
USGS said that the quake struck at 10:08 am (local time). It was felt as far north as Los Angeles County, about 120 miles (193 kilometres) away. The quake caused panic among people in Julian, which is a mountain town of about 1,500 people that is known for its apple pie shops.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/google-sold-when-an-indian-man-bought-googlecom-at-12-owned-it-for-seconds-heres-what-happened-next-8963894">Google SOLD! When an Indian man bought Google.com at $12, owned it for seconds, here's what happened next</a>&nbsp;
But amid chaos, a surreal moment was captured at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park where elephants instinctively circled their young, as soon as they felt the earthquake.&nbsp;
The zoo authority said that this behaviour is known as an "alert circle" and is intended to protect the young &mdash; and the entire herd &mdash; from threats.&nbsp;
The "alert circle" or "flight distance" basically refers to the area around an animal within which it becomes alert or vigilant when a potential threat, such as a predator or human, enters.&nbsp;
The zoo said the herd went back to normal after about 4 minutes, though they did stay close to one another.&nbsp;
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When an intruder breaches this invisible boundary, the animal may exhibit behaviours like increased vigilance, freezing, fleeing and defensive posturing.&nbsp;
The size of the alert circle varies depending on the species, individual animal and environment. It is essential for wildlife observation, conservation and animal handling to understanding this concept. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-haryana-admirer-who-vowed-to-stay-barefoot-until-he-became-pm-helps-him-wear-shoes-video-8963881">PM Modi meets Haryana admirer who vowed to stay barefoot until he became PM, helps him wear shoes-WATCH</a>
Watch the video here:&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1504_enter_12pm/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1504_enter_12pm.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=65&amp;tags=elephant, calves, earthquake" title="Elephants at San Diego zoo sense earthquake, form 'alert circle' around calves " id="PL_iframe_block-m9ia0a8u-c5weingi-wrnqsa9g"></iframe>
<h2>More about earthqaukes in the region&nbsp;</h2>
Several fault lines cause frequent tremors along the US West Coast, which is the meeting point of tectonic plates. Several major earthquakes have occurred in Southern California, including one that struck Northridge in the Los Angeles region in 1994, leaving thousands injured and dozens dead.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/earthquake-warning-for-delhi-the-big-one-is-coming-are-we-ready-lessons-to-learn-from-bangkok-8954084">Earthquake warning for Delhi! 'The Big One' is coming, are we ready? Lessons to learn from Bangkok</a>
In addition, it damaged homes and infrastructure to the tune of billions of dollars. Up to 3,000 people are believed to have been killed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and tsunami, some of whom died in fires that broke out following the strong jolt.&nbsp;

World | Trending News | The zoo said the herd went back to normal after about 4 minutes, though they did stay close to one another as there were several aftershocks

US Geological Survey said that a 5.2-magnitude earthquake shook Southern California on Monday morning, with the tremor centred 2.5 miles (four kilometres) south of Julian, which is around 20 miles from the US border with Mexico. It was eight miles deep and was followed by several aftershocks. There were no immediate reports of death or serious damage, and scientists said structural problems were unlikely. USGS said that the quake struck at 10:08 am (local time). It was felt as far north as Los Angeles County, about 120 miles (193 kilometres) away. The quake caused panic among people in Julian, which is a mountain town of about 1,500 people that is known for its apple pie shops. Also read: Google SOLD! When an Indian man bought Google.com at $12, owned it for seconds, here's what happened next But amid chaos, a surreal moment was captured at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park where elephants instinctively circled their young, as soon as they felt the earthquake. The zoo authority said that this behaviour is known as an "alert circle" and is intended to protect the young — and the entire herd — from threats. The "alert circle" or "flight distance" basically refers to the area around an animal within which it becomes alert or vigilant when a potential threat, such as a predator or human, enters. The zoo said the herd went back to normal after about 4 minutes, though they did stay close to one another. Also read: WNBA Draft: Too controversial or too old? 24-year-old Sedona Prince from TCU goes undrafted When an intruder breaches this invisible boundary, the animal may exhibit behaviours like increased vigilance, freezing, fleeing and defensive posturing. The size of the alert circle varies depending on the species, individual animal and environment. It is essential for wildlife observation, conservation and animal handling to understanding this concept. Also read: PM Modi meets Haryana admirer who vowed to stay barefoot until he became PM, helps him wear shoes-WATCH Watch the video here: More about earthqaukes in the region Several fault lines cause frequent tremors along the US West Coast, which is the meeting point of tectonic plates. Several major earthquakes have occurred in Southern California, including one that struck Northridge in the Los Angeles region in 1994, leaving thousands injured and dozens dead. Also read: Earthquake warning for Delhi! 'The Big One' is coming, are we ready? Lessons to learn from Bangkok In addition, it damaged homes and infrastructure to the tune of billions of dollars. Up to 3,000 people are believed to have been killed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and tsunami, some of whom died in fires that broke out following the strong jolt.

VIDEO: Elephants form 'alert circle' to protect their young when earthquake hits southern California

Dr BR Ambedkar, a renowned Indian reformer and architect of India's Constitution, has been honoured in New York City as April 14 has officially been declared to celebrate his legacy of justice and equality. Mayor Eric Adams announced this recognition, highlighting Ambedkar's fight against caste oppression and his call to "educate, agitate, organise".&nbsp;
Dr Ambedkar dedicated his life to fighting against social discrimination and worked tirelessly to secure equal rights for women, laborers and marginalised communities. His work on the Indian Constitution serves as a testament to his commitment to justice and equality.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-why-india-pakistan-and-afghanistan-facing-extreme-heatwave-8963649">Here's why India, Pakistan and Afghanistan facing extreme heatwave</a>&nbsp;
Adams praised Dr Ambedkar's legacy, saying, "Generations of people from around the world have crossed oceans seeking new possibilities in New York City... Ambedkar opposed caste discrimination and worked to protect farmers and tenants in India."&nbsp;
Including New York City, a city with its 8.5 million residents, Dr Ambedkar's birthday is now observed in over 100 countries by parliaments, UN missions and academic institutions. His vision for a just society continues to inspire students and institutions globally.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-waives-off-trump-tariffs-on-these-chinese-products-8962784">Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products</a>
Dilip Chauhan, who is Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs, made the announcement in the presence of Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Ramdas Athawale.&nbsp;
The Indian minister delivered the keynote address at a special event organised at the UN headquarters on Monday to commemorate Dr Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oops-video-shows-moment-vance-dropped-college-football-trophy-so-i-decided-to-break-it-8962625">Oops! Video shows moment Vance dropped college football trophy: '...so I decided to break it'</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i72po9-avbtnyil-3r3y5l9j">
Historic Moment: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Jayanti Officially Proclaimed in New York City | Ramdas Athawale Special thanks to Mayor <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCMayor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NYCMayor</a> and Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan for this powerful recognition.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmbedkarJayanti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmbedkarJayanti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaiBhim?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaiBhim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DrAmbedkar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DrAmbedkar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NYCProclamation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NYCProclamation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamdasAthawale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamdasAthawale</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/NavfDf6l1C">pic.twitter.com/NavfDf6l1C</a>
&mdash; Dr.Ramdas Athawale (@RamdasAthawale) <a href="https://twitter.com/RamdasAthawale/status/1912012601732829600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Honored to host Hon&rsquo;ble Minister of State for Social Justice &amp; Empowerment Dr. <a href="https://twitter.com/RamdasAthawale?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RamdasAthawale</a> to commemorate 134th Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Hon&rsquo;ble Minister paid floral tributes to Dr. Ambedkar and reflected on his transformative years at Columbia University,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/dBeMMsY7Yj">pic.twitter.com/dBeMMsY7Yj</a>
&mdash; India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainNewYork/status/1911942083193032766?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'Historic moment'</h2>
"A historic moment at the UN Headquarters in New York as Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary is officially proclaimed by the NYC Mayor's Office. My heartfelt thanks to Mayor @NYCMayor and Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan for honouring Babasaheb's global legacy of justice and equality," Athawale posted on X along with photos and a video.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-us-want-to-dismantle-irans-nuclear-programme-or-cap-uranium-enrichment-read-details-8963178">Does US want to dismantle Iran's nuclear programme, or cap uranium enrichment? Read details</a>
President of the Foundation for Human Horizon Deelip Mhaske told ANI, "We keep working throughout the year with the UN and various ambassadors and various missions to provide opportunities where marginalised sections and communities can connect with each other, create a platform where they can increase some economic generation activities and startups. Throughout this whole day, we have events happening in the morning, afternoon, evening, and then late at night. So, there will be four events in the city of New York."&nbsp;
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | New York, USA | On the proclamation of April 14 as 'Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day' in New York City, President of the Foundation for Human Horizon Deelip Mhaske says, "...We keep working throughout the year with the UN and various ambassadors and various missions to&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/55Mhon0td0">pic.twitter.com/55Mhon0td0</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1911880185370001804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

World | Dr Ramdas Athawale delivered the keynote address at a special event organised at the UN headquarters to commemorate Dr Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary

Dr BR Ambedkar, a renowned Indian reformer and architect of India's Constitution, has been honoured in New York City as April 14 has officially been declared to celebrate his legacy of justice and equality. Mayor Eric Adams announced this recognition, highlighting Ambedkar's fight against caste oppression and his call to "educate, agitate, organise". Dr Ambedkar dedicated his life to fighting against social discrimination and worked tirelessly to secure equal rights for women, laborers and marginalised communities. His work on the Indian Constitution serves as a testament to his commitment to justice and equality. Also read: Here's why India, Pakistan and Afghanistan facing extreme heatwave Adams praised Dr Ambedkar's legacy, saying, "Generations of people from around the world have crossed oceans seeking new possibilities in New York City... Ambedkar opposed caste discrimination and worked to protect farmers and tenants in India." Including New York City, a city with its 8.5 million residents, Dr Ambedkar's birthday is now observed in over 100 countries by parliaments, UN missions and academic institutions. His vision for a just society continues to inspire students and institutions globally. Also read: Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products Dilip Chauhan, who is Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs, made the announcement in the presence of Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Ramdas Athawale. The Indian minister delivered the keynote address at a special event organised at the UN headquarters on Monday to commemorate Dr Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary. Also read: Oops! Video shows moment Vance dropped college football trophy: '...so I decided to break it' Historic Moment: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Jayanti Officially Proclaimed in New York City | Ramdas Athawale Special thanks to Mayor @NYCMayor and Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan for this powerful recognition.#AmbedkarJayanti #JaiBhim #DrAmbedkar #NYCProclamation #RamdasAthawale… pic.twitter.com/NavfDf6l1C — Dr.Ramdas Athawale (@RamdasAthawale) April 15, 2025 Honored to host Hon’ble Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment Dr. @RamdasAthawale to commemorate 134th Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Hon’ble Minister paid floral tributes to Dr. Ambedkar and reflected on his transformative years at Columbia University,… pic.twitter.com/dBeMMsY7Yj — India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) April 15, 2025 'Historic moment' "A historic moment at the UN Headquarters in New York as Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary is officially proclaimed by the NYC Mayor's Office. My heartfelt thanks to Mayor @NYCMayor and Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan for honouring Babasaheb's global legacy of justice and equality," Athawale posted on X along with photos and a video. Also read: Does US want to dismantle Iran's nuclear programme, or cap uranium enrichment? Read details President of the Foundation for Human Horizon Deelip Mhaske told ANI, "We keep working throughout the year with the UN and various ambassadors and various missions to provide opportunities where marginalised sections and communities can connect with each other, create a platform where they can increase some economic generation activities and startups. Throughout this whole day, we have events happening in the morning, afternoon, evening, and then late at night. So, there will be four events in the city of New York." #WATCH | New York, USA | On the proclamation of April 14 as 'Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day' in New York City, President of the Foundation for Human Horizon Deelip Mhaske says, "...We keep working throughout the year with the UN and various ambassadors and various missions to… pic.twitter.com/55Mhon0td0 — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2025

'Historic moment' as New York City declares April 14 as Dr BR Ambedkar Day to honour his legacy

Former United States President Barack Obama has said that Harvard University has set an example for all higher educational institutions as it stood against "unlawful attempt to stifle academic freedom." His statement comes after the Donald Trump administration in the US froze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University. In a post on X, the former US president urged other institutions to follow suit.&nbsp;
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Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions &ndash; rejecting an unlawful and ham-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom, while taking concrete steps to make sure all students at Harvard can benefit from an environment of intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/gAu9UUqgjF">https://t.co/gAu9UUqgjF</a>
&mdash; Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1911980834048954551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Trump administration freezes $2.2billion to Harvard</h2>
The United States government on Monday announced its decision to freeze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the college rejected the Donald Trump administration's demands for changes in admission policies as well as audit views of student clubs to curb 'anti-Semitism.'&nbsp;
The White House has also frozen $60 million in contracts to Harvard University.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump administration's demands</h2>
In a letter to Harvard on Friday, President Trump's administration had called for broad government and leadership reforms at the university as well as derecognisation of some student clubs involved in anti-Semitic activities. The Trump administration also wanted Harvard to implement a comprehensive mask ban with serious and immediate penalties for violation.
<h3>Here are the key demands:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Governance and leadership reforms</li>
<li>Merit-Based Hiring Reform</li>
<li>Merit-Based Admissions Reform</li>
<li>Viewpoint Diversity in Admissions and Hiring</li>
<li>Reforming Programs with Egregious Records of Antisemitism or Other Bias</li>
<li>Discontinuation of DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion.)</li>
</ul>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/aliens-killed-everyone-nasa-detects-xenon-129-on-mars-harvard-scientists-suggest-nuclear-war-theory-8947107">Aliens killed everyone? NASA detects Xenon-129 on Mars, Harvard scientists suggest nuclear war theory</a>
<h2>Harvard refuses the demands of Trump administration</h2>
However, Harvard University refused to accept the deal saying it would not "negotiate over its independence or its constitutional rights." Harvard President Alan Garber, in a letter to the Harvard community, said the demands violated the university's rights under the Constitution's First Amendment and &ldquo;exceeds the statutory limits of the government&rsquo;s authority under Title VI,&rdquo; which prohibits discrimination against students based on their race, colour or national origin. Garber also said that while some of the demands outlined by the government are aimed at combating antisemitism, the majority represent direct governmental regulation of the 'intellectual conditions.'
While freezing the grants, the Trump administration said, "Harvard's statement today reinforces the troubling entitlement mindset that is endemic in our nation's most prestigious universities and colleges- that federal investment does not come with the responsibility to uphold civil rights laws."&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-freezes-22bn-to-harvard-after-college-defies-demands-8962646">Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1504_TRUMP_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1504_TRUMP_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=94&amp;tags=trump, usa, harvard university, fund freeze" title="Trump freezes $2 billion Harvard funds over rejecting demands" id="PL_iframe_block-m9i6gzmi-g424ltag-gf80qjeh"></iframe>
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World | Barack Obama has said that Harvard University has set an example for all higher educational institutions amid Trump administration's pressure tactics

Former United States President Barack Obama has said that Harvard University has set an example for all higher educational institutions as it stood against "unlawful attempt to stifle academic freedom." His statement comes after the Donald Trump administration in the US froze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University. In a post on X, the former US president urged other institutions to follow suit. Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions – rejecting an unlawful and ham-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom, while taking concrete steps to make sure all students at Harvard can benefit from an environment of intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate and… https://t.co/gAu9UUqgjF — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) April 15, 2025 Read More | Columbia pro-Palestine activist arrested after arriving at immigration office for US citizenship interview: Who is he Trump administration freezes $2.2billion to Harvard The United States government on Monday announced its decision to freeze more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the college rejected the Donald Trump administration's demands for changes in admission policies as well as audit views of student clubs to curb 'anti-Semitism.' The White House has also frozen $60 million in contracts to Harvard University. Trump administration's demands In a letter to Harvard on Friday, President Trump's administration had called for broad government and leadership reforms at the university as well as derecognisation of some student clubs involved in anti-Semitic activities. The Trump administration also wanted Harvard to implement a comprehensive mask ban with serious and immediate penalties for violation. Here are the key demands: Governance and leadership reforms Merit-Based Hiring Reform Merit-Based Admissions Reform Viewpoint Diversity in Admissions and Hiring Reforming Programs with Egregious Records of Antisemitism or Other Bias Discontinuation of DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion.) Read More | Aliens killed everyone? NASA detects Xenon-129 on Mars, Harvard scientists suggest nuclear war theory Harvard refuses the demands of Trump administration However, Harvard University refused to accept the deal saying it would not "negotiate over its independence or its constitutional rights." Harvard President Alan Garber, in a letter to the Harvard community, said the demands violated the university's rights under the Constitution's First Amendment and “exceeds the statutory limits of the government’s authority under Title VI,” which prohibits discrimination against students based on their race, colour or national origin. Garber also said that while some of the demands outlined by the government are aimed at combating antisemitism, the majority represent direct governmental regulation of the 'intellectual conditions.' While freezing the grants, the Trump administration said, "Harvard's statement today reinforces the troubling entitlement mindset that is endemic in our nation's most prestigious universities and colleges- that federal investment does not come with the responsibility to uphold civil rights laws." Read More | Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands Also Watch | Harvard plans to borrow $750 million from Wall Street after Trump funding threat

Barack Obama's first reaction after Harvard funds cut, says university has 'set an example'

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair Netanyahu, is once again in the headlines, this time for lashing out at French President Emmanuel Macron for his statement that Paris could recognise a Palestinian state within months.&nbsp;
"Screw you!" Benjamin Netanyahu's son wrote in English on the social media platform X late on Saturday (April 12).&nbsp;
"Yes to independence of New Caledonia! Yes to independence for French Polynesia! Yes to the independence of Corsica! Yes to independence of the Basque Country! Yes to independence of French Guinea!" he added.&nbsp;
After this, the Israeli PM took to X and said that his son's comments to Macron were "unacceptable".
"I love my son Yair, a true Zionist who cares about the future of the country. Like every citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the style of his response to President Macron's tweet calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable to me," Netanyahu said in the X post.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i6zgyv-ntonwprj-vcgiwrlh">
אני אוהב את בני יאיר, ציוני אמיתי שדואג לעתיד המדינה. כמו כל אזרח, גם הוא זכאי לדעתו האישית, הגם שסגנון תגובתו לציוצו של הנשיא מקרון שקרא להקמת מדינה פלסטינית, אינו מקובל עלי. הנשיא מקרון טועה קשות, כאשר הוא ממשיך לקדם את רעיון המדינה הפלסטינית בלב ארצנו, שכל שאיפתה היא השמדת&hellip;
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1911475839104921896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/screw-you-netanyahus-son-yair-slams-macron-on-palestinian-statehood-8956340">&lsquo;Screw you!&rsquo;: Netanyahu&rsquo;s son Yair slams Macron on Palestinian statehood</a>
But, it's not the first time Netanyahu has had to come to the defence of his son after Yair's not-so-proud acts. The elder son of the Israeli PM has always been in controversy.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Yair Netanyahu?&nbsp;</h2>
Born in 1991, Yair is the eldest son and the first child of the Israeli PM with his second wife, Sara Netanyahu. Although he has no political position, Yair has often shared his controversial and extremist opinions online.&nbsp;
Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst.&nbsp;
<h2>The George Soros meme scandal - 2017&nbsp;</h2>
In 2017, Yair had posted a controversial meme on the social media platform Facebook. He claimed that there was a conspiracy being led by George Soros to topple his father's government in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-war-with-iran-inevitable-if-nuclear-talks-stall-donald-trump-8940638">'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall</a>
The meme showed Soros as a puppet master controlling world events. Even though Soros is Jewish, he is often the target of far-right conspiracy theories. &nbsp;
Yair's post was heavily slammed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which called it &ldquo;dangerous&rdquo; and &ldquo;anti-Semitic", along with other political groups. After the criticism, Yair deleted the post.&nbsp;
<h2>The strip club video - 2017</h2>
An Israeli news channel aired a secret video clip in which Yair was seen drunk outside a strip club and bragging about his political powers while being accompanied by the government-funded bodyguards. The then 24-year-old was seen bragging about how his father helped a friend secure a giant gas deal.&nbsp;
He was further seen making derogatory comments about women outside the strip club. Yair received massive backlash from Israelis for using taxpayers' money to fund his late-night debauchery.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/criminal-investigation-launches-against-sara-netanyahu-for-witness-tampering-8684712">Criminal investigation against Sara Netanyahu for 'witness tampering'</a>
After the backlash, Yair publicly apologised for his "nonsense" comments, saying that he was drunk and not in his senses.&nbsp;
<h2>'Muslims Should Leave Israel' - 2020&nbsp;</h2>
Yair was in the middle of a debate on X about the Temple Mount and Muslim prayer rights when he wrote: &ldquo;all Muslims should leave the land of Israel.&rdquo;
The comments drew massive outrage for being Islamophobic. Some of the major supporters of Netanyahu distanced themselves after Yair's comment. They were concerned that it could lead to regional tension in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fraud-trial-of-israel-pms-wife-sara-netanyahu-postponed-court-150254">Fraud trial of Israel PM's wife Sara Netanyahu postponed: Court</a>
Again, the post was deleted, BUT couldn't fix the damage already done.&nbsp;
<h2>Other controversies&nbsp;</h2>
Apart from all this, Yair has been accused of being involved in multiple defamation cases as well.&nbsp;He has also clashed with the Israeli media and even called them "fake news" and "traitors". &nbsp;

TRENDING | World | Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair Netanyahu, is once again in the headlines, this time for lashing out at French President Emmanuel Macron for his statement that Paris could recognise a Palestinian state within months. "Screw you!" Benjamin Netanyahu's son wrote in English on the social media platform X late on Saturday (April 12). "Yes to independence of New Caledonia! Yes to independence for French Polynesia! Yes to the independence of Corsica! Yes to independence of the Basque Country! Yes to independence of French Guinea!" he added. After this, the Israeli PM took to X and said that his son's comments to Macron were "unacceptable". "I love my son Yair, a true Zionist who cares about the future of the country. Like every citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the style of his response to President Macron's tweet calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable to me," Netanyahu said in the X post. אני אוהב את בני יאיר, ציוני אמיתי שדואג לעתיד המדינה. כמו כל אזרח, גם הוא זכאי לדעתו האישית, הגם שסגנון תגובתו לציוצו של הנשיא מקרון שקרא להקמת מדינה פלסטינית, אינו מקובל עלי. הנשיא מקרון טועה קשות, כאשר הוא ממשיך לקדם את רעיון המדינה הפלסטינית בלב ארצנו, שכל שאיפתה היא השמדת… — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) April 13, 2025 Also read: ‘Screw you!’: Netanyahu’s son Yair slams Macron on Palestinian statehood But, it's not the first time Netanyahu has had to come to the defence of his son after Yair's not-so-proud acts. The elder son of the Israeli PM has always been in controversy. Who is Yair Netanyahu? Born in 1991, Yair is the eldest son and the first child of the Israeli PM with his second wife, Sara Netanyahu. Although he has no political position, Yair has often shared his controversial and extremist opinions online. Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst. The George Soros meme scandal - 2017 In 2017, Yair had posted a controversial meme on the social media platform Facebook. He claimed that there was a conspiracy being led by George Soros to topple his father's government in Israel. Also read: 'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall The meme showed Soros as a puppet master controlling world events. Even though Soros is Jewish, he is often the target of far-right conspiracy theories. Yair's post was heavily slammed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which called it “dangerous” and “anti-Semitic", along with other political groups. After the criticism, Yair deleted the post. The strip club video - 2017 An Israeli news channel aired a secret video clip in which Yair was seen drunk outside a strip club and bragging about his political powers while being accompanied by the government-funded bodyguards. The then 24-year-old was seen bragging about how his father helped a friend secure a giant gas deal. He was further seen making derogatory comments about women outside the strip club. Yair received massive backlash from Israelis for using taxpayers' money to fund his late-night debauchery. Also read: Criminal investigation against Sara Netanyahu for 'witness tampering' After the backlash, Yair publicly apologised for his "nonsense" comments, saying that he was drunk and not in his senses. 'Muslims Should Leave Israel' - 2020 Yair was in the middle of a debate on X about the Temple Mount and Muslim prayer rights when he wrote: “all Muslims should leave the land of Israel.” The comments drew massive outrage for being Islamophobic. Some of the major supporters of Netanyahu distanced themselves after Yair's comment. They were concerned that it could lead to regional tension in Israel. Also read: Fraud trial of Israel PM's wife Sara Netanyahu postponed: Court Again, the post was deleted, BUT couldn't fix the damage already done. Other controversies Apart from all this, Yair has been accused of being involved in multiple defamation cases as well. He has also clashed with the Israeli media and even called them "fake news" and "traitors".

From 'Screw you' Macron to strip club scandal: 6 times Yair Netanyahu landed up in controversy

India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have been experiencing heatwave after heatwave. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay have been studying patterns and the climatic factors contributing to the phenomenon.
This study was conducted in collaboration with a team from Germany's Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, where they studied patterns and focused on the unusually hot episodes between March and April of 2022. The study was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres.
"Our analysis shows that the March heatwave was primarily linked to a sudden increase in the amplitude of short-lived atmospheric Rossby waves, which are large-scale meanders in high-altitude winds resembling bends in a winding river," said Roshan Jha, doctoral student at the Centre for Climate Studies and lead author, IIT Bombay.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/heatwaves-rising-temperatures-impact-your-heart-in-ways-you-dont-even-realise-heres-what-experts-have-to-say-8947708">Heatwaves, rising temperatures impact your heart in ways you don't even realise. Here's what experts have to say</a>
"The waves grew stronger as high-altitude westerly winds near the poles (extratropical jet stream) transferred energy to westerly winds closer to the equator (subtropical jet stream) as they came closer during the heatwave," he added.
"Think of it like this &ndash; when the soil has moisture, under the clear sky conditions, some of the sun's energy goes into evaporating that moisture rather than heating the air. But when the soil is already dry, all that energy goes straight into making the air hotter," Prof. Arpita Mondal, Associate Professor at IIT Bombay, explained.
The researcher says that further understanding of the pattern and the connection will lead to precise analysis. This will also polish the ability to forecast the weather and climatic changes better and, in turn, be prepared and have measures in place to protect oneself. The increase in heatwaves is, of course, worrisome, but only better understanding will help navigate the situation in a manner that will ensure better prediction and mitigation.

India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have been experiencing heatwave after heatwave. Researchers at IIT Bombay study patterns and climatic factors contributing to it. World

India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have been experiencing heatwave after heatwave. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay have been studying patterns and the climatic factors contributing to the phenomenon. This study was conducted in collaboration with a team from Germany's Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, where they studied patterns and focused on the unusually hot episodes between March and April of 2022. The study was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres. "Our analysis shows that the March heatwave was primarily linked to a sudden increase in the amplitude of short-lived atmospheric Rossby waves, which are large-scale meanders in high-altitude winds resembling bends in a winding river," said Roshan Jha, doctoral student at the Centre for Climate Studies and lead author, IIT Bombay. Also read: Heatwaves, rising temperatures impact your heart in ways you don't even realise. Here's what experts have to say "The waves grew stronger as high-altitude westerly winds near the poles (extratropical jet stream) transferred energy to westerly winds closer to the equator (subtropical jet stream) as they came closer during the heatwave," he added. "Think of it like this – when the soil has moisture, under the clear sky conditions, some of the sun's energy goes into evaporating that moisture rather than heating the air. But when the soil is already dry, all that energy goes straight into making the air hotter," Prof. Arpita Mondal, Associate Professor at IIT Bombay, explained. The researcher says that further understanding of the pattern and the connection will lead to precise analysis. This will also polish the ability to forecast the weather and climatic changes better and, in turn, be prepared and have measures in place to protect oneself. The increase in heatwaves is, of course, worrisome, but only better understanding will help navigate the situation in a manner that will ensure better prediction and mitigation.

Here's why India, Pakistan and Afghanistan facing extreme heatwave

At the start of the antitrust trial that could ask Meta to sell off Instagram and WhatsApp, its CEO Mark Zuckerberg was more combative and prepared than earlier. After several court cases and Congressional testimonies over various scandals, the 40-year old is experienced and mature in handling such challenges. But the trial that started on Monday (Apr 14) could be the most testing one for him. Because this time, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is accusing Meta of violating US antitrust laws in acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp. Using his own emails from as far back as 2011, the FTC lawyers are arguing that he used a 'buy or bury strategy', meaning it was a choice between competing with or buying out the then-main rival social media platforms of Facebook. The seven hours of testimony at the US District Court for the District of Columbia in Washington DC is the latest of Zuckerberg's high-profile public appearances.&nbsp;
Even the company's renaming in 2021 was an attempt to make the public forget the shady history of Facebook.
He is playing it differently now. He was at the White House before the trial started, which is being seen as an attempt to settle the FTC lawsuit.
What gives him the smug confidence is the unwavering stock price of Meta. Investor confidence only rose and the stock is valued double than his first appearances in Congress.
<h2><iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/3001_meta_830pm_WION/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/3001_meta_830pm_WION_.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=164&amp;tags=meta, mark zuckerbeg, facebook, instagram" title="Meta to pay Trump $25 Million to settle lawsuit over Facebook and Instagram " id="PL_iframe_block-m9i5akxm-ja506gmt-uodxzhgy"></iframe></h2>
<h2></h2>
<h2>The many trials of Mark Zuckerberg</h2>
Legend has it that Zuckerberg started his first social network, The Facebook, from his dorm room at the Harvard University in 2004.
Since then, Congressional depositions, Senate and House committee appearances, and lawsuits hounded&nbsp; Zuckerberg. Either in person or through his lawyers, he has testified at least eight times before the US Congress and appeared as witness in court cases at least twice.
These cases and testimonies were on user data privacy, child safety and disinformation on his social media assets like Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. He has also faced questions on social media regulation, competition, and the future of digital platforms.&nbsp;
Here is a look at some of them:
<h2>2010: the first major appearance that made Zuckerberg sweat</h2>
When his company was still called Facebook, Zuckerberg literally sweated at a public appearance. That was not even a trial or congressional deposition but an interview at a technology conference. During an interview at the AllThingsD conference with Kara Swisher and Walt Mossberg, Zuckerberg struggled to answer questions on user privacy on Facebook. He was caught on camera sweating so profusely that at one point, he had to take off his hoodie.
&nbsp;
<h2>2018 testimony before Congress&nbsp;</h2>
This was Zuckerberg's first major appearance before the US Congress, for which he was prepared by lawyers for two weeks. There were three continuous hearings over two days, where he faced accusations of lying.&nbsp;
It was mainly about Facebook giving political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica access to user data without consent.
At the jampacked appearances, he gave non-answers to many questions as he was schooled by his lawyers, often saying, 'my team will get back to you'.
At the US Senate Judiciary and Commerce Committees, Zuckerberg faced questions about how Facebook mishandled user data, essentially allowing it to be harvested by Cambridge Analytica.&nbsp;
In the same year, he also faced the House of Representatives Committee on data breaches and spread of misinformation campaigns through its platform.
This was particularly on the spread of misleading content and fake news, in the wake of the election of Donald Trump as US president.
<h2>2019 House hearing on cryptocurrency Libra</h2>
Zuckerberg was questioned by the US House Financial Services Committee on the cryptocurrency Libra.
While the main topic was on Libra's safety and security features, he also faced questions about misinformation spreading through political ads on Facebook.
Zuckerberg often found it difficult to answer the questions.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-chief-mark-zuckerberg-testifies-at-landmark-us-antitrust-trial-heres-what-happened-8962744">Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened</a>
<h2></h2>
He was accused of steamrolling everyone: business rivals, people of colour, women, and even the American democracy.
He argued that Libra could improve financial inclusion and ease global payments, but eventually, the project was delayed.
<h2>2020 Congressional hearings of Big Tech firms</h2>
 Zuckerberg was one of the tech CEOs summoned by the House Judiciary Committee hearing.
He was more prepared and polished in those hearings.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-blocked-in-this-country-over-fake-news-hate-speech-and-porn-government-warns-its-national-threat-8889442">Facebook blocked in THIS country over &lsquo;fake news, hate speech, and porn&rsquo;; government warns it&rsquo;s national threat</a>
&nbsp;
<h2>2021 testimonies on disinformation on social media&nbsp;</h2>
Zuckerberg was summoned by a House of Representatives panel on disinformation spreading in social media. This time also, he was one of the CEOs testifying, along with top brass of Twitter and Google.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/instagram-whatsapp-meta-monopoly-antitrust-case-updates-mark-zuckerberg-could-lose-social-media-assets-8960162">Will Zuckerberg lose Instagram, Whatsapp? Landmark antitrust case could force Meta to divest crown jewels | Details here</a>
&nbsp;
The same year, he faced the Senate Judiciary Committee on antitrust concerns faced by Meta over Facebook&rsquo;s acquisitions, particularly Instagram and WhatsApp. He argued that the acquisitions were aimed at innovation and more value to users.
In arguments that he repeated on Monday's court appearance, he said Facebook faced competition from other platforms like Google and Twitter, implying that Mea was not a monopoly.
<h2>2022 FTC antitrust hearings&nbsp;</h2>
This was Meta's first major hearing before the FTC on acquisitions and antitrust concerns.
Zuckerberg defended the company&rsquo;s acquisitions, specifically of the virtual reality firm Oculus, as 'strategic decisions' to create long-term value for the company and its users.&nbsp;
<h2>2023 US House Judiciary Committee on antitrust and data privacy</h2>
At this hearing, Zuckerberg defended Meta&rsquo;s practices, emphasising that Facebook users had control over their data and that the company had complied with relevant privacy laws.&nbsp;
<h2>2024 public apology in hearing on child deaths due to online bullying</h2>
Zuckerberg appeared at a Congressional hearing on child online safety. He was asked to apologise to parents of children who died as a result of bullying and other issues fuelled by Facebook and Instagram. Addressing the parents present, he apologised for their loss.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-big-tech-war-what-antitrust-cases-mean-for-google-meta-apple-and-the-future-of-ai-explained-8961485">Trump&rsquo;s big tech war: What antitrust cases mean for Google, Meta, Apple and the Future of AI | Explained</a>
<h2></h2>
Besides these, he testified at a Dallas court on intellectual property theft claims by a video game company, ZeniMax Media in 2017. In 2023, he testified in San Jose, California on a trial against Meta&rsquo;s acquisition of Within, a virtual reality firm.
&nbsp;

Mark Zuckerberg Meta Instagram trial: Using his emails, the FTC agrued that he used a 'buy or bury strategy'. World Business & Economy Science & Technology Trending

At the start of the antitrust trial that could ask Meta to sell off Instagram and WhatsApp, its CEO Mark Zuckerberg was more combative and prepared than earlier. After several court cases and Congressional testimonies over various scandals, the 40-year old is experienced and mature in handling such challenges. But the trial that started on Monday (Apr 14) could be the most testing one for him. Because this time, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is accusing Meta of violating US antitrust laws in acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp. Using his own emails from as far back as 2011, the FTC lawyers are arguing that he used a 'buy or bury strategy', meaning it was a choice between competing with or buying out the then-main rival social media platforms of Facebook. The seven hours of testimony at the US District Court for the District of Columbia in Washington DC is the latest of Zuckerberg's high-profile public appearances. Even the company's renaming in 2021 was an attempt to make the public forget the shady history of Facebook. He is playing it differently now. He was at the White House before the trial started, which is being seen as an attempt to settle the FTC lawsuit. What gives him the smug confidence is the unwavering stock price of Meta. Investor confidence only rose and the stock is valued double than his first appearances in Congress. The many trials of Mark Zuckerberg Legend has it that Zuckerberg started his first social network, The Facebook, from his dorm room at the Harvard University in 2004. Since then, Congressional depositions, Senate and House committee appearances, and lawsuits hounded Zuckerberg. Either in person or through his lawyers, he has testified at least eight times before the US Congress and appeared as witness in court cases at least twice. These cases and testimonies were on user data privacy, child safety and disinformation on his social media assets like Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. He has also faced questions on social media regulation, competition, and the future of digital platforms. Here is a look at some of them: 2010: the first major appearance that made Zuckerberg sweat When his company was still called Facebook, Zuckerberg literally sweated at a public appearance. That was not even a trial or congressional deposition but an interview at a technology conference. During an interview at the AllThingsD conference with Kara Swisher and Walt Mossberg, Zuckerberg struggled to answer questions on user privacy on Facebook. He was caught on camera sweating so profusely that at one point, he had to take off his hoodie. 2018 testimony before Congress This was Zuckerberg's first major appearance before the US Congress, for which he was prepared by lawyers for two weeks. There were three continuous hearings over two days, where he faced accusations of lying. It was mainly about Facebook giving political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica access to user data without consent. At the jampacked appearances, he gave non-answers to many questions as he was schooled by his lawyers, often saying, 'my team will get back to you'. At the US Senate Judiciary and Commerce Committees, Zuckerberg faced questions about how Facebook mishandled user data, essentially allowing it to be harvested by Cambridge Analytica. In the same year, he also faced the House of Representatives Committee on data breaches and spread of misinformation campaigns through its platform. This was particularly on the spread of misleading content and fake news, in the wake of the election of Donald Trump as US president. 2019 House hearing on cryptocurrency Libra Zuckerberg was questioned by the US House Financial Services Committee on the cryptocurrency Libra. While the main topic was on Libra's safety and security features, he also faced questions about misinformation spreading through political ads on Facebook. Zuckerberg often found it difficult to answer the questions. Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened He was accused of steamrolling everyone: business rivals, people of colour, women, and even the American democracy. He argued that Libra could improve financial inclusion and ease global payments, but eventually, the project was delayed. 2020 Congressional hearings of Big Tech firms Zuckerberg was one of the tech CEOs summoned by the House Judiciary Committee hearing. He was more prepared and polished in those hearings. Facebook blocked in THIS country over ‘fake news, hate speech, and porn’; government warns it’s national threat 2021 testimonies on disinformation on social media Zuckerberg was summoned by a House of Representatives panel on disinformation spreading in social media. This time also, he was one of the CEOs testifying, along with top brass of Twitter and Google. Will Zuckerberg lose Instagram, Whatsapp? Landmark antitrust case could force Meta to divest crown jewels | Details here The same year, he faced the Senate Judiciary Committee on antitrust concerns faced by Meta over Facebook’s acquisitions, particularly Instagram and WhatsApp. He argued that the acquisitions were aimed at innovation and more value to users. In arguments that he repeated on Monday's court appearance, he said Facebook faced competition from other platforms like Google and Twitter, implying that Mea was not a monopoly. 2022 FTC antitrust hearings This was Meta's first major hearing before the FTC on acquisitions and antitrust concerns. Zuckerberg defended the company’s acquisitions, specifically of the virtual reality firm Oculus, as 'strategic decisions' to create long-term value for the company and its users. 2023 US House Judiciary Committee on antitrust and data privacy At this hearing, Zuckerberg defended Meta’s practices, emphasising that Facebook users had control over their data and that the company had complied with relevant privacy laws. 2024 public apology in hearing on child deaths due to online bullying Zuckerberg appeared at a Congressional hearing on child online safety. He was asked to apologise to parents of children who died as a result of bullying and other issues fuelled by Facebook and Instagram. Addressing the parents present, he apologised for their loss. Trump’s big tech war: What antitrust cases mean for Google, Meta, Apple and the Future of AI | Explained Besides these, he testified at a Dallas court on intellectual property theft claims by a video game company, ZeniMax Media in 2017. In 2023, he testified in San Jose, California on a trial against Meta’s acquisition of Within, a virtual reality firm.

The 9 lives of Mark Zuckerberg: Every time Meta CEO faced scrutiny. Will he survive 'sell Instagram' trial this time? A timeline

Former US president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-how-a-second-trump-presidency-could-reshape-abortion-access-in-the-us-772157">Joe Biden</a> seems to have been part of a much more suspicious email scandal than ever in US history. In 2014, when Biden was publicly calling for sanctions against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-bidens-war-eu-convenes-emergency-talks-after-trump-calls-russian-strike-on-ukraine-a-mistake-8960870">Russia</a> as US vice president, he privately opened "a backdoor for Moscow's gas to flow to its neighbor in fall 2014". This was to help his son Hunter Biden when his Ukrainian energy company sought such help. This was according to some government messages in a private email account that was kept from Americans for more than a decade.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-set-to-deliver-first-public-address-since-leaving-office-all-you-need-to-know-8962415">Joe Biden set to deliver first public address since leaving office. All you need to know</a>
As per the new documents obtained by the news agency Just The News, there are fresh allegations that Biden used "multiple" fake emails and non-government domains to communicate while he was still in office.&nbsp;
Biden used a private account to communicate, which was under a fake name - <a href="mailto:RobinWare456@gmail.com">RobinWare456@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i4nma4-6om0xcik-3ci1vz4u">
New documents obtained by <a href="https://twitter.com/JustTheNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JustTheNews</a>/<a href="https://twitter.com/jsolomonReports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jsolomonReports</a> call into serious question whether former Special Counsel Hur ignoring Joe Biden's use of pseudonym email accounts was purposeful in its design to ignore evidence of what the Bidens were doing with classified information <a href="https://t.co/E6HVYezRDu">https://t.co/E6HVYezRDu</a> <a href="https://t.co/QjO1I2wSZK">pic.twitter.com/QjO1I2wSZK</a>
&mdash; Oversight Project (@ItsYourGov) <a href="https://twitter.com/ItsYourGov/status/1911872610805121252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
The House Oversight and Accountability Committee, which continues to investigate corruption concerns surrounding the former first family, revealed the emails to the news agency.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-mocking-joe-biden-for-cognitive-decline-us-president-donald-trump-himself-cant-recall-details-of-his-favourite-cognitive-test-8954872">After mocking Biden for cognitive decline, Trump himself can't recall details of his 'favourite' cognitive test</a>
A per the investigative organisation, Biden played a "secret role" at a "critical moment" to help secure Russia's willingness to reopen natural gas spigots to Ukraine. At that time, Germany received the credit for brokering this deal.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Ukraine gas deal was just signed. The Germans earlier indicated to Tony that your call had come at a critical moment,&rdquo; &nbsp;the vice president&rsquo;s Deputy National Security Advisor Jeffrey Prescott wrote in an Oct. 30, 2014 email to Biden.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-scraps-secret-service-detail-for-bidens-children-hunter-biden-and-ashley-biden-calls-costs-ridiculous-8863841">'Ridiculous': Trump axes Secret Service detail for Biden's children Hunter Biden and Ashley Biden</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The revelation of these emails has sparked debates about the ethics of communication practices within government entities and the need for stringent oversight measures.

Former US president Joe Biden seems to have been part of a much more suspicious email scandal than ever in US history. In 2014, when Biden was publicly calling for sanctions against Russia as US vice president, he privately opened "a backdoor for Moscow's gas to flow to its neighbor in fall 2014". This was to help his son Hunter Biden when his Ukrainian energy company sought such help. This was according to some government messages in a private email account that was kept from Americans for more than a decade. Also read: Joe Biden set to deliver first public address since leaving office. All you need to know As per the new documents obtained by the news agency Just The News, there are fresh allegations that Biden used "multiple" fake emails and non-government domains to communicate while he was still in office. Biden used a private account to communicate, which was under a fake name - RobinWare456@gmail.com. New documents obtained by @JustTheNews/@jsolomonReports call into serious question whether former Special Counsel Hur ignoring Joe Biden's use of pseudonym email accounts was purposeful in its design to ignore evidence of what the Bidens were doing with classified information https://t.co/E6HVYezRDu pic.twitter.com/QjO1I2wSZK — Oversight Project (@ItsYourGov) April 14, 2025 Also read: ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war The House Oversight and Accountability Committee, which continues to investigate corruption concerns surrounding the former first family, revealed the emails to the news agency. Also read: After mocking Biden for cognitive decline, Trump himself can't recall details of his 'favourite' cognitive test A per the investigative organisation, Biden played a "secret role" at a "critical moment" to help secure Russia's willingness to reopen natural gas spigots to Ukraine. At that time, Germany received the credit for brokering this deal. “Ukraine gas deal was just signed. The Germans earlier indicated to Tony that your call had come at a critical moment,” the vice president’s Deputy National Security Advisor Jeffrey Prescott wrote in an Oct. 30, 2014 email to Biden. Also read: 'Ridiculous': Trump axes Secret Service detail for Biden's children Hunter Biden and Ashley Biden (With inputs from agencies)

'Secret emails, fake names, gas deals': Joe Biden’s 2014 scandal EXPOSED

The US Immigration officials detained Mohsen Mahdawi, an organiser of pro-Palestinian protests last year at Columbia University, after he arrived at the Vermont immigration office, for an interview to become a US citizen. Instead of having an interview, Mohsen Mahdawi, who has been in the United States for 10 years, was arrested. According to Mahdawi's lawyer, he started his citizenship process in 2024. He is now facing deportation.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i2wfod-nwy92jv9-8sfmnr4l">
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents in Vermont arrested Mohsen Mahdawi, another pro-Palestine student at Columbia University. Follow: <a href="https://t.co/v6VYZYhWHD">https://t.co/v6VYZYhWHD</a> <a href="https://t.co/GiXloE3q3u">pic.twitter.com/GiXloE3q3u</a>
&mdash; Palestine Highlights (@PalHighlight) <a href="https://twitter.com/PalHighlight/status/1912007183111278835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/left-my-cat-behind-indian-student-who-self-deported-from-us-says-columbia-let-me-down-8898168">'Left my cat behind...': Indian student who self-deported from US says, 'Columbia let me down'</a>
Speaking to CNN, Mahdawi's lawyer Luna Droubi said that immigration officials detained Mahdawi at a US Citizenship and Immigration Services facility in Colchester, Vermont, where he lives. Droubi also said that a temporary restraining order has been issued by a Vermont District judge preventing Mahdawi's removal from either Vermont or the US. This after Mahdawi's attorneys filed the motion in Vermont's federal district court, demanding his release on bail pending adjudication. Notably, the restraining order in the case is important as ICE has demonstrated its overarching powers by deciding where to house detained migrants despite court orders.
In a written statement given to CNN, Mahdawi's attorney said, "The Trump administration detained Mohsen Mahdawi in direct retaliation for his advocacy on behalf of Palestinians and because of his identity as a Palestinian.His detention is an attempt to silence those who speak out against the atrocities in Gaza. It is also unconstitutional."
Read More | &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-donald-trump-administration-arrested-pro-palestine-mahmoud-khalil-everything-you-need-to-know-8841604">Why did Trump administration arrest pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil? What we know</a>
<h2>Who is Mohsen Mahdawi and his connection with pro-Palestine protest?</h2>
Mohsen Mahdawi is the second Palestinian student at Columbia who holds a green card but has been detained by immigration authorities for removal from the US. He was born in a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank and he lived there until he moving to the United States in 2014, as per the AFP. Mohsen Mahdawi was about to graduate next month and has a US green card since 2015. Mahdawi co-founded Dar: the Palestinian Student Society at Columbia University alongside Mahmoud Khalil. His lawyers&rsquo; petition states that their aim was to &ldquo;to celebrate Palestinian culture, history and identity.&rdquo; Mahdawi also established Columbia University Apartheid Divest, a coalition that not only led pro-Palestinian protests on campus, but also urged the university to cut off ties with Israel. In December 2023, Mahdawi appeared in &rsquo;60 Minutes&rsquo; interview, during which he emphasised, &ldquo;My motivation comes out of love now, not out of anger, not out of hate.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i2vhuj-elsocsum-btogxs0x">
&ldquo;The fight for freedom of Palestine and the fight against antisemitism go hand-in-hand because injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,&rdquo; says Mohsen Mahdawi, co-president of Columbia's Palestinian Students Union. <a href="https://t.co/xh91MwzdHe">https://t.co/xh91MwzdHe</a> <a href="https://t.co/CsBehwMWEc">pic.twitter.com/CsBehwMWEc</a>
&mdash; 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) <a href="https://twitter.com/60Minutes/status/1732420697274646557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9i2u45r-4vg05met-f5i0pk7l">
Raised in a Palestinian refugee camp under Israeli occupation, Mohsen Mahdawi &mdash; a U.S. permanent resident and Buddhist peace activist &mdash; was set to receive his citizenship today. Instead, he was arrested by ICE and now faces deportation. His crime? Speaking up for Palestinian&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/vx3V0snSWZ">pic.twitter.com/vx3V0snSWZ</a>
&mdash; Kashif Chaudhry (@KashifMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/KashifMD/status/1911953152091320341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/columbia-university-student-permanent-us-resident-sues-trump-administration-for-trying-to-deport-her-8887931">Columbia University student, permanent US resident, sues Trump administration for trying to deport her</a>
A court filing further stated that he is planning to return to Columbia for a master&rsquo;s program at Columbia University&rsquo;s School of International and Public Affairs this fall. He took on role of activist on the Columbia campus until March 2024, and has since stepped back and not been involved in organising protests, the court filing stated. A habeas corpus petition filed on his behalf calls him "an outspoken critic of Israel&rsquo;s military campiagn in Gaza and an activist and organiser in student protest." The filing argues that the Department of Homeland Security seeks to deport him on the Rubio Determination and Section 237 (a) (4) (C) (i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which is a &ldquo;rarely-used provision&rdquo;.
Mahmoud Khalil, one of the lead negotiators of the pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia, and&nbsp;Tufts University's Rumeysa Ozturk were also arrested in March. Khalil was taken to an immigration detention center in Jena, Louisiana, thousands of miles from his attorneys and wife, a U.S. citizen who is due to give birth soon. An immigration judge&nbsp;has ordered his detention. Ozturk who was held in Vermont was transferred to a facility in Pine Prairie, Louisiana, against a judge&rsquo;s order. She&nbsp;described the conditions in the detention facility as "inhumane" and "unsafe." "The conditions in the facility are very unsanitary, unsafe, and inhumane,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;There is a mouse in our cell... They don&rsquo;t give us adequate hygiene supplies,&rdquo; she said according to USA Today.
<h2>Senators criticise the move to arrest Mohsen Mahdawi:&nbsp;"Immoral, inhumane and illegal"</h2>
Vermont's congressional delegation, Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch and Representative Becca Balint, issued a joint statement against his detention, terming it "immoral, inhumane and illegal." They wrote, "Earlier today, Mohsen Mahdawi of White River Junction, Vermont, walked into an immigration office for what was supposed to be the final step in his citizenship process." The lawmakers further stated, "Instead, he was arrested and removed in handcuffs by plainclothes, armed, individuals with their faces covered. ... This is immoral, inhumane, and illegal. Mr. Mahdawi, a legal resident of the United States, must be afforded due process under the law and immediately released from detention."
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-indian-students-in-trumps-us-are-facing-deportation-drunk-driving-shoplifting-speeding-8941370">Why Indian students in Trump's US facing deportation: 'Drunk driving, shoplifting, speeding'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Columbia activist Mohsen Mahdawi went to US immigration office for citizenship interview but was arrested for leading pro-Palestine protest last year

The US Immigration officials detained Mohsen Mahdawi, an organiser of pro-Palestinian protests last year at Columbia University, after he arrived at the Vermont immigration office, for an interview to become a US citizen. Instead of having an interview, Mohsen Mahdawi, who has been in the United States for 10 years, was arrested. According to Mahdawi's lawyer, he started his citizenship process in 2024. He is now facing deportation. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents in Vermont arrested Mohsen Mahdawi, another pro-Palestine student at Columbia University. Follow: https://t.co/v6VYZYhWHD pic.twitter.com/GiXloE3q3u — Palestine Highlights (@PalHighlight) April 15, 2025 Read More | 'Left my cat behind...': Indian student who self-deported from US says, 'Columbia let me down' Speaking to CNN, Mahdawi's lawyer Luna Droubi said that immigration officials detained Mahdawi at a US Citizenship and Immigration Services facility in Colchester, Vermont, where he lives. Droubi also said that a temporary restraining order has been issued by a Vermont District judge preventing Mahdawi's removal from either Vermont or the US. This after Mahdawi's attorneys filed the motion in Vermont's federal district court, demanding his release on bail pending adjudication. Notably, the restraining order in the case is important as ICE has demonstrated its overarching powers by deciding where to house detained migrants despite court orders. In a written statement given to CNN, Mahdawi's attorney said, "The Trump administration detained Mohsen Mahdawi in direct retaliation for his advocacy on behalf of Palestinians and because of his identity as a Palestinian.His detention is an attempt to silence those who speak out against the atrocities in Gaza. It is also unconstitutional." Read More | Why did Trump administration arrest pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil? What we know Who is Mohsen Mahdawi and his connection with pro-Palestine protest? Mohsen Mahdawi is the second Palestinian student at Columbia who holds a green card but has been detained by immigration authorities for removal from the US. He was born in a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank and he lived there until he moving to the United States in 2014, as per the AFP. Mohsen Mahdawi was about to graduate next month and has a US green card since 2015. Mahdawi co-founded Dar: the Palestinian Student Society at Columbia University alongside Mahmoud Khalil. His lawyers’ petition states that their aim was to “to celebrate Palestinian culture, history and identity.” Mahdawi also established Columbia University Apartheid Divest, a coalition that not only led pro-Palestinian protests on campus, but also urged the university to cut off ties with Israel. In December 2023, Mahdawi appeared in ’60 Minutes’ interview, during which he emphasised, “My motivation comes out of love now, not out of anger, not out of hate.” “The fight for freedom of Palestine and the fight against antisemitism go hand-in-hand because injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” says Mohsen Mahdawi, co-president of Columbia's Palestinian Students Union. https://t.co/xh91MwzdHe pic.twitter.com/CsBehwMWEc — 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) December 6, 2023 Raised in a Palestinian refugee camp under Israeli occupation, Mohsen Mahdawi — a U.S. permanent resident and Buddhist peace activist — was set to receive his citizenship today. Instead, he was arrested by ICE and now faces deportation. His crime? Speaking up for Palestinian… pic.twitter.com/vx3V0snSWZ — Kashif Chaudhry (@KashifMD) April 15, 2025 Read More | Columbia University student, permanent US resident, sues Trump administration for trying to deport her A court filing further stated that he is planning to return to Columbia for a master’s program at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs this fall. He took on role of activist on the Columbia campus until March 2024, and has since stepped back and not been involved in organising protests, the court filing stated. A habeas corpus petition filed on his behalf calls him "an outspoken critic of Israel’s military campiagn in Gaza and an activist and organiser in student protest." The filing argues that the Department of Homeland Security seeks to deport him on the Rubio Determination and Section 237 (a) (4) (C) (i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which is a “rarely-used provision”. Mahmoud Khalil, one of the lead negotiators of the pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia, and Tufts University's Rumeysa Ozturk were also arrested in March. Khalil was taken to an immigration detention center in Jena, Louisiana, thousands of miles from his attorneys and wife, a U.S. citizen who is due to give birth soon. An immigration judge has ordered his detention. Ozturk who was held in Vermont was transferred to a facility in Pine Prairie, Louisiana, against a judge’s order. She described the conditions in the detention facility as "inhumane" and "unsafe." "The conditions in the facility are very unsanitary, unsafe, and inhumane,” she said. “There is a mouse in our cell... They don’t give us adequate hygiene supplies,” she said according to USA Today. Senators criticise the move to arrest Mohsen Mahdawi: "Immoral, inhumane and illegal" Vermont's congressional delegation, Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch and Representative Becca Balint, issued a joint statement against his detention, terming it "immoral, inhumane and illegal." They wrote, "Earlier today, Mohsen Mahdawi of White River Junction, Vermont, walked into an immigration office for what was supposed to be the final step in his citizenship process." The lawmakers further stated, "Instead, he was arrested and removed in handcuffs by plainclothes, armed, individuals with their faces covered. ... This is immoral, inhumane, and illegal. Mr. Mahdawi, a legal resident of the United States, must be afforded due process under the law and immediately released from detention." Read More | Why Indian students in Trump's US facing deportation: 'Drunk driving, shoplifting, speeding' (With inputs from agencies)

Columbia pro-Palestine activist arrested after arriving at immigration office for US citizenship interview: Who is he

Steve Witkoff, who is US President Donald Trump's special envoy to Mideast, said on Monday that any nuclear deal between America and Tehran will rely on verification of Tehran's enrichment and weaponisation capabilities.&nbsp;
In a televised Fox News interview, Witkoff said that "this is going to be much about verification on the enrichment programme" as he avoided clarifying whether or not the US want a complete dismantling of Iran's nuclear programme.&nbsp;
"We're here to see if we can solve this situation diplomatically and with dialogue. The first meeting was positive, constructive, compelling," Witkoff said, further adding, "They do not need to enrich past 3.67 percent." He gave a reference to the maximum level allowed under the prior nuclear agreement that Trump exited in 2018.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-chief-mark-zuckerberg-testifies-at-landmark-us-antitrust-trial-heres-what-happened-8962744">Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened</a>
In 2015, Iran reached a landmark nuclear deal with major powers that gave it relief from international sanctions in return for restrictions on its nuclear activities monitored by UN inspectors.&nbsp;
But in 2018, during Trump's first term in office, the US withdrew from the agreement and reinstated biting sanctions on Iran. A year later, Iran accelerated its nuclear programme as it rolled back on its commitments under the agreement. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Witkoff noted that Iran "do[es] not need to enrich past 3.67%. In some circumstances. They're at 60%, in other circumstances 20%. That cannot be" and "you do not need to run &mdash; as they claim &mdash; a civil nuclear programme where you're enriching past 3.67%".&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-freezes-22bn-to-harvard-after-college-defies-demands-8962646" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands</a>&nbsp;
His remarks suggest that the US is looking to limit Iran's uranium enrichment, instead of dismantling its nuclear programme altogether. As per Witkoff, the next round of talks will focus on "verification on the enrichment programme and then ultimately verification on weaponisation".&nbsp;
"That includes missiles &mdash; the type of missiles that they have stockpiled there. And it includes the trigger for a bomb," he said.
The next round of talks between the US and Iran over Tehran's nuclear programme will be held in Oman on Saturday, the official IRNA news agency reported.&nbsp;
Following indirect negotiations in Muscat last weekend, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the next talks would take place in Oman's capital on April 19, IRNA reported. The Dutch foreign minister had earlier suggested that the talks would be held in Rome.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oops-video-shows-moment-vance-dropped-college-football-trophy-so-i-decided-to-break-it-8962625" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oops! Video shows moment Vance dropped college football trophy: '...so I decided to break it'</a>
<h2>Trump's warning to Iran&nbsp;</h2>
Trump, meanwhile, reiterated on Monday that Iran must abandon any drive for a nuclear weapon or face a possible military strike on Tehran's atomic facilities. During a conversation with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, Trump said he believes that Tehran is intentionally delaying a nuclear deal with the US.&nbsp;
"I want them to be a rich great nation. The only thing is one thing, simple. It's really simple. They can't have a nuclear weapon. And they got to go fast, because they're fairly close to having one. And they're not going to have one. And if we have to do something very harsh, we'll do it. And I'm not doing it for us, I'm doing it for the world. And these are radicalized people, and they cannot have a nuclear weapon," Trump said.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-passes-constitutional-amendment-to-limit-rights-of-dual-nationals-ban-lgbtq-events-8962699" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events</a>
"I think Iran could be a great country as long as it doesn't have nuclear weapons. If they have nuclear weapons, they'll never get a chance to be a great country. They will never get chance. It won't even come close," he added.&nbsp;

World | Following negotiations in Muscat last weekend, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman said the next talks would take place in Oman's capital on April 19

Steve Witkoff, who is US President Donald Trump's special envoy to Mideast, said on Monday that any nuclear deal between America and Tehran will rely on verification of Tehran's enrichment and weaponisation capabilities. In a televised Fox News interview, Witkoff said that "this is going to be much about verification on the enrichment programme" as he avoided clarifying whether or not the US want a complete dismantling of Iran's nuclear programme. "We're here to see if we can solve this situation diplomatically and with dialogue. The first meeting was positive, constructive, compelling," Witkoff said, further adding, "They do not need to enrich past 3.67 percent." He gave a reference to the maximum level allowed under the prior nuclear agreement that Trump exited in 2018. Also read: Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened In 2015, Iran reached a landmark nuclear deal with major powers that gave it relief from international sanctions in return for restrictions on its nuclear activities monitored by UN inspectors. But in 2018, during Trump's first term in office, the US withdrew from the agreement and reinstated biting sanctions on Iran. A year later, Iran accelerated its nuclear programme as it rolled back on its commitments under the agreement. Witkoff noted that Iran "do[es] not need to enrich past 3.67%. In some circumstances. They're at 60%, in other circumstances 20%. That cannot be" and "you do not need to run — as they claim — a civil nuclear programme where you're enriching past 3.67%". Also read: Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands His remarks suggest that the US is looking to limit Iran's uranium enrichment, instead of dismantling its nuclear programme altogether. As per Witkoff, the next round of talks will focus on "verification on the enrichment programme and then ultimately verification on weaponisation". "That includes missiles — the type of missiles that they have stockpiled there. And it includes the trigger for a bomb," he said. The next round of talks between the US and Iran over Tehran's nuclear programme will be held in Oman on Saturday, the official IRNA news agency reported. Following indirect negotiations in Muscat last weekend, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the next talks would take place in Oman's capital on April 19, IRNA reported. The Dutch foreign minister had earlier suggested that the talks would be held in Rome. Also read: Oops! Video shows moment Vance dropped college football trophy: '...so I decided to break it' Trump's warning to Iran Trump, meanwhile, reiterated on Monday that Iran must abandon any drive for a nuclear weapon or face a possible military strike on Tehran's atomic facilities. During a conversation with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, Trump said he believes that Tehran is intentionally delaying a nuclear deal with the US. "I want them to be a rich great nation. The only thing is one thing, simple. It's really simple. They can't have a nuclear weapon. And they got to go fast, because they're fairly close to having one. And they're not going to have one. And if we have to do something very harsh, we'll do it. And I'm not doing it for us, I'm doing it for the world. And these are radicalized people, and they cannot have a nuclear weapon," Trump said. Also read: Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events "I think Iran could be a great country as long as it doesn't have nuclear weapons. If they have nuclear weapons, they'll never get a chance to be a great country. They will never get chance. It won't even come close," he added.

Does US want to dismantle Iran's nuclear programme, or cap uranium enrichment? Read details

The United States government on Monday night said it was freezing more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the school rejected the Trump administration's demands that it to audit the viewpoints of the student body.&nbsp;
Mark Zuckerberg took the stand in a US court Monday in a landmark antitrust trial in which his company is accused by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of abusing its market power to acquire Instagram and WhatsApp before they could become competitors.&nbsp;
Hungary's parliament has passed an amendment to the constitution that allows the government to ban public events by LGBTQ+ communities and limit the rights of dual nationals.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-freezes-22bn-to-harvard-after-college-defies-demands-8962646">Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/671x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/15/RF89y5LamMZIp6FSjEhm-309194.png" alt=" File photo of the entrance to Harvard Yard in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 671px;">
The United States government on Monday night said it was freezing more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the school rejected the Trump administration's demands that it to audit the viewpoints of the student body.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-chief-mark-zuckerberg-testifies-at-landmark-us-antitrust-trial-heres-what-happened-8962744">Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x348/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/15/LLORIBMzblvrC7bezvnu-998347.png" alt=" Photograph: (AFP) ">
Mark Zuckerberg took the stand in a US court Monday in a landmark antitrust trial in which his company is accused by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of abusing its market power to acquire Instagram and WhatsApp before they could become competitors.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-passes-constitutional-amendment-to-limit-rights-of-dual-nationals-ban-lgbtq-events-8962699">Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/15/9lkt9M6b9fSZ5KJqcA6Z.png" alt=" Photograph: (AFP) ">
Hungary's parliament has passed an amendment to the constitution that allows the government to ban public events by LGBTQ+ communities and limit the rights of dual nationals.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-waives-off-trump-tariffs-on-these-chinese-products-8962784">Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x348/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/22/VbLD5GUOr08bVZbLRIO2-921841.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump's tariff-imposing spree sees one twist after another. In the latest, China has been slapped with 145%, and then there are a few exemptions.
WATCH | Historic Blue Origin flight: Women astronauts experience panoramic views of Earth
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1404_ARJUN_KATY_10PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1404_ARJUN_KATY_10PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=272&amp;tags=Blue Origin, Earth, World News, WION" title="Historic Blue Origin flight: Women astronauts experience panoramic views of Earth" id="PL_iframe_block-m9hyss23-rax3i82w-psr25mu9"></iframe>

Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief.

The United States government on Monday night said it was freezing more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the school rejected the Trump administration's demands that it to audit the viewpoints of the student body. Mark Zuckerberg took the stand in a US court Monday in a landmark antitrust trial in which his company is accused by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of abusing its market power to acquire Instagram and WhatsApp before they could become competitors. Hungary's parliament has passed an amendment to the constitution that allows the government to ban public events by LGBTQ+ communities and limit the rights of dual nationals. Click on the headlines to read more Trump administration freezes $2.2bn to Harvard after college defies demands The United States government on Monday night said it was freezing more than $2 billion in grants to Harvard University after the school rejected the Trump administration's demands that it to audit the viewpoints of the student body. Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial: Here's what happened Mark Zuckerberg took the stand in a US court Monday in a landmark antitrust trial in which his company is accused by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of abusing its market power to acquire Instagram and WhatsApp before they could become competitors. Hungary passes constitutional amendment to limit rights of dual nationals, ban LGBTQ events Hungary's parliament has passed an amendment to the constitution that allows the government to ban public events by LGBTQ+ communities and limit the rights of dual nationals. Trump waives off tariffs on THESE 'Chinese' products US President Donald Trump's tariff-imposing spree sees one twist after another. In the latest, China has been slapped with 145%, and then there are a few exemptions. WATCH | Historic Blue Origin flight: Women astronauts experience panoramic views of Earth

Morning news brief: Trump freezes $2.2bn to Harvard; Zuckerberg testifies at landmark US antitrust trial, and more

Starbucks has announced that dress code for its baristas in North America is being updated for a "better customer experience". It said that the changes will take effect on May 12. As per the new rule, baristas must wear a solid black top and a denim bottom in any shade of khaki, blue, or black. Starbucks said baristas could also wear new company-branded t-shirts, with the coffee chain providing two shirts for free to its workers.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehul-choksi-who-is-barbara-jabarika-who-honey-trapped-the-fugitive-businessman-8962763">Mehul Choksi: Who is Barbara Jabarika, who 'honey-trapped' the fugitive businessman?</a>
"We&rsquo;re evolving our dress code in all stores to focus on simplified colour options that allow our iconic green apron to shine and create a sense of familiarity for our customers, no matter which store they visit across North America," the company said in a post.
"Our partners are the face of our brand, and our iconic green apron has always been a special part of what makes us unique. Since 1987, the green apron has been the symbol for Starbucks Coffee Company, representing the hundreds of thousands of retail partners in North America who connect with customers every day," the statement by the company added.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starbucks-introduces-new-policy-to-ask-customers-to-buy-something-or-get-out-8622146">Starbucks introduces new policy, to ask customers 'to buy something' or 'get out'</a>
The new dress code is part of Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol&rsquo;s push to revamp the company. Niccol, who joined the company from Chipotle Mexican Grill, was appointed the CEO in August 2024. Since then, Niccol has taken several steps to revamp the company, including shuffling the executive ladder and announcing layoffs.
<h2>Starbucks Workers United criticises the management&nbsp;</h2>
However, the new rule has not made baristas happy. A representative for Starbucks Workers United, the union that has organised more than 500 of the company&rsquo;s roughly 10,000 corporate-run US cafes, criticised the move and called on Starbucks to focus on reaching a collective-bargaining agreement, reported Bloomberg.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9hxn8ok-suku8ap4-8o1v9guo">
Starbucks just announced a significantly more conservative dress code, instead of finalizing fair contracts and addressing actual issues like understaffing and lack of guaranteed hours. Our union has been fighting for a contract that expands the dress code. <a href="https://t.co/JJFHCDkEqi">pic.twitter.com/JJFHCDkEqi</a>
&mdash; Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) <a href="https://twitter.com/SBWorkersUnited/status/1911920012757279108?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
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"Starbucks is prioritizing a limiting dress code that won&rsquo;t improve the company&rsquo;s operations," Jasmine Leli, a barista and union bargaining delegate, said in a statement. Niccol should &ldquo;get involved in the bargaining process and hear from us directly on what Starbucks partners actually need to succeed,&rdquo; she added.
As per reports, Starbucks' sales were flat in 2024 compared with the prior year. In 2024, its shares were down about 20% up until Niccol's appointment, since then they have jumped 28%.
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(With inputs from agencies)

World | Starbucks has announced new dress code for its baristas in North America. The new dress code is part of CEO Brian Niccol’s push to revamp the company

Starbucks has announced that dress code for its baristas in North America is being updated for a "better customer experience". It said that the changes will take effect on May 12. As per the new rule, baristas must wear a solid black top and a denim bottom in any shade of khaki, blue, or black. Starbucks said baristas could also wear new company-branded t-shirts, with the coffee chain providing two shirts for free to its workers. Read More | Mehul Choksi: Who is Barbara Jabarika, who 'honey-trapped' the fugitive businessman? "We’re evolving our dress code in all stores to focus on simplified colour options that allow our iconic green apron to shine and create a sense of familiarity for our customers, no matter which store they visit across North America," the company said in a post. "Our partners are the face of our brand, and our iconic green apron has always been a special part of what makes us unique. Since 1987, the green apron has been the symbol for Starbucks Coffee Company, representing the hundreds of thousands of retail partners in North America who connect with customers every day," the statement by the company added. Read More | Starbucks introduces new policy, to ask customers 'to buy something' or 'get out' The new dress code is part of Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol’s push to revamp the company. Niccol, who joined the company from Chipotle Mexican Grill, was appointed the CEO in August 2024. Since then, Niccol has taken several steps to revamp the company, including shuffling the executive ladder and announcing layoffs. Starbucks Workers United criticises the management However, the new rule has not made baristas happy. A representative for Starbucks Workers United, the union that has organised more than 500 of the company’s roughly 10,000 corporate-run US cafes, criticised the move and called on Starbucks to focus on reaching a collective-bargaining agreement, reported Bloomberg. Starbucks just announced a significantly more conservative dress code, instead of finalizing fair contracts and addressing actual issues like understaffing and lack of guaranteed hours. Our union has been fighting for a contract that expands the dress code. pic.twitter.com/JJFHCDkEqi — Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) April 14, 2025 Read More | New Starbucks CEO faces backlash for 1000 miles private jet commute "Starbucks is prioritizing a limiting dress code that won’t improve the company’s operations," Jasmine Leli, a barista and union bargaining delegate, said in a statement. Niccol should “get involved in the bargaining process and hear from us directly on what Starbucks partners actually need to succeed,” she added. As per reports, Starbucks' sales were flat in 2024 compared with the prior year. In 2024, its shares were down about 20% up until Niccol's appointment, since then they have jumped 28%. Read More | 'Disfigured genitals, multiple skin grafts': Man gets $50mn in lawsuit after hot Starbucks drink spilled on lap (With inputs from agencies)

Starbucks announces new dress code for baristas amid slump sales: What it is and why

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