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A 30-storey under construction building collapsed in Thailand's Bangkok on Friday (Mar 28) after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the Thai capital around midday. A state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok, announced Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Talking to the press, Thai deputy prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that at least 81 people were believed to be trapped under the rubble and at least three have died. The number of casualties is expected to go up even as rescue efforts continue.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-72-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-myanmar-tremors-felt-in-delhi-ncr-8899458">Massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR</a>
<h2>Video of building collapse goes viral</h2>
A dramatic viral video showed the horrifying scene as the multi-story building and a crane collapsed in a cloud of dust amid screams and panicked onlookers.
Watch it here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Earthquake sum up 3pm (Mynamar/Thailand) - 7.7 quake hit near Mandalay/Myanmar - Hundreds of homes collapsed (various Myanmar cities) - Strong shocks in Thailand + multiple building collapse in Bangkok - USGS predicts thousands of people dead (Bangkok clips from social media:) <a href="https://t.co/kJodTn6BIg">pic.twitter.com/kJodTn6BIg</a>
&mdash; Florian Witulski (@vaitor) <a href="https://twitter.com/vaitor/status/1905533835674354009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As per AFP, the 30-storey skyscraper was under construction for government offices. 81 workers were trapped as the building collapsed after a powerful earthquake rocked Bangkok.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/myanmar-thailand-earthquake-india-stands-ready-to-offer-all-possible-assistance-says-pm-modi-8900046">Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi</a>
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake, which had its epicentre in Myanmar, quickly destroyed the building in northern Bangkok, leaving behind only rubble and twisted metal.
As per the United States Geological Survey (USGS) the quake, which struck at lunchtime, was of 7.7 magnitude and at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). It was followed by a powerful aftershock.
(With inputs from agencies)

Discover the devastating impact of a magnitude earthquake in Bangkok that led to the collapse of a 30-storey building, trapping over workers beneath the rubble.

A 30-storey under construction building collapsed in Thailand's Bangkok on Friday (Mar 28) after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the Thai capital around midday. A state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok, announced Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Talking to the press, Thai deputy prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that at least 81 people were believed to be trapped under the rubble and at least three have died. The number of casualties is expected to go up even as rescue efforts continue. Also read | Massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR Video of building collapse goes viral A dramatic viral video showed the horrifying scene as the multi-story building and a crane collapsed in a cloud of dust amid screams and panicked onlookers. Watch it here: Earthquake sum up 3pm (Mynamar/Thailand) - 7.7 quake hit near Mandalay/Myanmar - Hundreds of homes collapsed (various Myanmar cities) - Strong shocks in Thailand + multiple building collapse in Bangkok - USGS predicts thousands of people dead (Bangkok clips from social media:) pic.twitter.com/kJodTn6BIg — Florian Witulski (@vaitor) March 28, 2025 As per AFP, the 30-storey skyscraper was under construction for government offices. 81 workers were trapped as the building collapsed after a powerful earthquake rocked Bangkok. Also read | Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi The 7.7 magnitude earthquake, which had its epicentre in Myanmar, quickly destroyed the building in northern Bangkok, leaving behind only rubble and twisted metal. As per the United States Geological Survey (USGS) the quake, which struck at lunchtime, was of 7.7 magnitude and at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). It was followed by a powerful aftershock. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangkok earthquake: Under construction 30-storey building collapses due to 7.7 magnitude earthquake

Usha Vance's visit to Greenland has triggered controversy, and the residents are clearly not happy with the news of her trip. According to a Danish media report, American officials were in Greenland&rsquo;s capital, Nuuk, recently and knocked on the doors of people to ask them if they would be willing to host the Second Lady. Almost everyone said "No".
Jesper Steinmetz, a correspondent for Denmark&rsquo;s TV 2, reported that they offered residents to let their home be a stop-by for Usha Vance but they were just not interested. According to Steinmetz, no one accepted the offer. "No, otherwise thank you," was the response of the majority of the people.
<h2>Usha Vance's visit plans changed after this</h2>
The White House was forced to change its plans about the Greenland visit, according to the station. The earlier itinerary included attending a dogsledding race and meeting Nuuk locals.
Also Read: <a title="Post View" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/did-usha-vance-copy-or-re-wear-deepika-padukones-famous-cannes-saree-find-out-the-truth-8893023" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener">Did Usha Vance copy or re-wear Deepika Padukone&rsquo;s famous Cannes saree? Find out the truth</a>
However, an official who spoke to The Hill denied the report.
&ldquo;This is categorically false. The Second Lady is proud to visit the Pituffik Space Base with her husband to learn more about arctic security and the great work of the Space Base,&rdquo; a White House official told the publication.
<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/2503_US_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2503_US_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=114&amp;tags=usa, greenland, usha vance, world news, wion" title="US second lady Usha Vance's Greenland visit attracts criticism " id="PL_iframe_block-m8sgt800-5dzx4pmr-8pytg872"></iframe>
A travel agency based in Nuuk also pulled out after agreeing to host Usha Vance. Now, the second lady and her husband, Vice President JD Vance, are visiting the military installation instead.
&ldquo;After closer consideration, however, we have now informed the consulate that we do not want her visit, as we cannot accept the underlying agenda and will not be part of the press show that, of course, comes with it,&rdquo; the company said in a Facebook post. &ldquo;Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.&rdquo;
<h2>Donald Trump wants to control Greenland, and people are angry</h2>
Donald Trump has been playing pressure games over the autonomous territory in the Kingdom of Denmark, saying that he wants to take control of the Arctic territory. The people of Greenland have been livid about his statements.&nbsp;
Greenland Prime Minister M&uacute;te Bourup Egede told the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq on Sunday, "Until recently, we could safely rely on the Americans, who were our allies and friends, and with whom we liked to work closely."
&ldquo;But that time is over, we have to admit that, because the new American leadership is completely and utterly indifferent to what we have stood together on so far, because now it is only a matter of them taking over our country over our heads,&rdquo; he added.
&nbsp;

Usha Vance's visit to Greenland has angered the residents, who are in no mood to meet or greet her. US officials asked them if they would like to meet her, and everyone said "No". World Trending

Usha Vance's visit to Greenland has triggered controversy, and the residents are clearly not happy with the news of her trip. According to a Danish media report, American officials were in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, recently and knocked on the doors of people to ask them if they would be willing to host the Second Lady. Almost everyone said "No". Jesper Steinmetz, a correspondent for Denmark’s TV 2, reported that they offered residents to let their home be a stop-by for Usha Vance but they were just not interested. According to Steinmetz, no one accepted the offer. "No, otherwise thank you," was the response of the majority of the people. Usha Vance's visit plans changed after this The White House was forced to change its plans about the Greenland visit, according to the station. The earlier itinerary included attending a dogsledding race and meeting Nuuk locals. Also Read: Did Usha Vance copy or re-wear Deepika Padukone’s famous Cannes saree? Find out the truth However, an official who spoke to The Hill denied the report. “This is categorically false. The Second Lady is proud to visit the Pituffik Space Base with her husband to learn more about arctic security and the great work of the Space Base,” a White House official told the publication. A travel agency based in Nuuk also pulled out after agreeing to host Usha Vance. Now, the second lady and her husband, Vice President JD Vance, are visiting the military installation instead. “After closer consideration, however, we have now informed the consulate that we do not want her visit, as we cannot accept the underlying agenda and will not be part of the press show that, of course, comes with it,” the company said in a Facebook post. “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.” Donald Trump wants to control Greenland, and people are angry Donald Trump has been playing pressure games over the autonomous territory in the Kingdom of Denmark, saying that he wants to take control of the Arctic territory. The people of Greenland have been livid about his statements. Greenland Prime Minister Múte Bourup Egede told the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq on Sunday, "Until recently, we could safely rely on the Americans, who were our allies and friends, and with whom we liked to work closely." “But that time is over, we have to admit that, because the new American leadership is completely and utterly indifferent to what we have stood together on so far, because now it is only a matter of them taking over our country over our heads,” he added.

US asked Greenland residents to host Usha Vance. Everyone refused. 'No, thank you'

The swamps and streams of the Congo Basin in Africa are believed to be inhabited by a humongous creature that many people believe is a dinosaur. The legend of the dinosaur-like animal has been going around for over 100 years. It supposedly resembles the sauropod, a dinosaur with a long neck and is thought to be around the size of a "hippopotamus or a rhinoceros and an elephant".
However, experts say it is merely a case of mistaken identity, just like the Loch Ness monster. It is famously known as mokele-mbembe and has reportedly been seen by many people. According to National Geographic, after years of decreased sightings, reports of the beast making an appearance have increased again.
So, does a dinosaur really live in the Congo? Experts say that Africa is home to all kinds of animals, some of which have never been seen by humans.
Also Read: <a title="Post View" href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/incredibly-rare-new-species-of-dinosaur-with-strange-claws-unearthed-in-gobi-desert-8891010" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener">Incredibly rare new species of&nbsp;dinosaur&nbsp;with strange claws unearthed in Gobi Desert</a>
Now with increasing deforestations, people are pushing into their habitats and encountering strange creatures. Instead of thinking that it might simply be a regular creature that they didn't know of, people assume that it is a long-lost animal, in this case, a dinosaur.
<h2>The legendary Congolese dinosaur</h2>
The legend of mokele-mbembe is famous in Congo, with villagers talking about it for decades. Selah Abong&rsquo;o, a Congolese conservationist once encountered the "mythical dinosaur" in 2003 in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park. However, it turned out to be a giant elephant.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/loch-ness-monster-seen-again-in-2025-8795637" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Loch Ness monster seen again? Latest sighting can further 'fuel the mystery'</a>
The Congo Basin is Earth&rsquo;s second-largest rainforest. It has lost a major forest cover in the past few years, opening up the gates to an animal world that has never been seen before by many.&nbsp;
Laura Vlachova, a Czech conservationist, told National Geographic, "In bigger settlements where habitats are being pushed into and people aren&rsquo;t used to seeing large animals, they&rsquo;re suddenly encountering them all the time."
<h2>Mokele-mbembe sightings have increased</h2>
She says these people claim to have seen mokele-mbembe, a creature with roots in African legends, which people suddenly think is true. "I think what it really shows is how folklore is starting to reflect the reality of a shrinking ecosystem," she added.
Also Read: <a title="Post View" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/demonic-sea-serpent-like-creature-washes-ashore-in-california-770388" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener">Demonic sea serpent-like creature washes ashore in California</a>
In Congo, forests are cleared to grow peanuts, bananas, maize and more, and the vegetation that is left is burned to fertilise the soil with ash. However, the fertility lasts two to five years after which the farmers clear more forests, moving further inside the forests.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a title="Post View" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-second-doomsday-fish-appears-in-california-third-global-sighting-this-year-776028" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener">A second 'doomsday fish' appears in California; third global sighting this year</a>
During one such incident, Congolese biologist Joseph Oyange recalls that a teenager claimed to have heard a "mokele-mbembe roaring." They had, in reality, disrupted a gorilla habitat, and the animals entered the fields at night and destroyed everything. The teenager had actually heard a gorilla crying.
There are examples of animals who attained legendary status initially because people had never seen them before. This includes the pygmy hippo, which was believed to be an unidentified giant swine or pig.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

'Dinosaur' of the Congo is being seen by more and more people, as per claims. However, the reason for it might boil down to human activity in the forests. World Trending

The swamps and streams of the Congo Basin in Africa are believed to be inhabited by a humongous creature that many people believe is a dinosaur. The legend of the dinosaur-like animal has been going around for over 100 years. It supposedly resembles the sauropod, a dinosaur with a long neck and is thought to be around the size of a "hippopotamus or a rhinoceros and an elephant". However, experts say it is merely a case of mistaken identity, just like the Loch Ness monster. It is famously known as mokele-mbembe and has reportedly been seen by many people. According to National Geographic, after years of decreased sightings, reports of the beast making an appearance have increased again. So, does a dinosaur really live in the Congo? Experts say that Africa is home to all kinds of animals, some of which have never been seen by humans. Also Read: Incredibly rare new species of dinosaur with strange claws unearthed in Gobi Desert Now with increasing deforestations, people are pushing into their habitats and encountering strange creatures. Instead of thinking that it might simply be a regular creature that they didn't know of, people assume that it is a long-lost animal, in this case, a dinosaur. The legendary Congolese dinosaur The legend of mokele-mbembe is famous in Congo, with villagers talking about it for decades. Selah Abong’o, a Congolese conservationist once encountered the "mythical dinosaur" in 2003 in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park. However, it turned out to be a giant elephant. Also Read: Loch Ness monster seen again? Latest sighting can further 'fuel the mystery' The Congo Basin is Earth’s second-largest rainforest. It has lost a major forest cover in the past few years, opening up the gates to an animal world that has never been seen before by many. Laura Vlachova, a Czech conservationist, told National Geographic, "In bigger settlements where habitats are being pushed into and people aren’t used to seeing large animals, they’re suddenly encountering them all the time." Mokele-mbembe sightings have increased She says these people claim to have seen mokele-mbembe, a creature with roots in African legends, which people suddenly think is true. "I think what it really shows is how folklore is starting to reflect the reality of a shrinking ecosystem," she added. Also Read: Demonic sea serpent-like creature washes ashore in California In Congo, forests are cleared to grow peanuts, bananas, maize and more, and the vegetation that is left is burned to fertilise the soil with ash. However, the fertility lasts two to five years after which the farmers clear more forests, moving further inside the forests. Also Read: A second 'doomsday fish' appears in California; third global sighting this year During one such incident, Congolese biologist Joseph Oyange recalls that a teenager claimed to have heard a "mokele-mbembe roaring." They had, in reality, disrupted a gorilla habitat, and the animals entered the fields at night and destroyed everything. The teenager had actually heard a gorilla crying. There are examples of animals who attained legendary status initially because people had never seen them before. This includes the pygmy hippo, which was believed to be an unidentified giant swine or pig.

Is a 'dinosaur' wading in the swamps of Congo? Here's the truth

US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem visited a prison camp in El Salvador on Wednesday (March 26) but what grabbed people's attention was her premium gold Rolex. As per the buzz online, the watch costs around $60,000. Noem was seen flaunting the watch - apparently a Rolex Daytona - in front of a cell full of Venezuelan prisoners after Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigrants.&nbsp;
Although, no clarification came from Noem's office, netizens wondered how Noem - who was merely a governor in South Dakota until this year - can afford such an expensive watch on government salary.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-commit-crimes-against-america-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-warns-as-she-visits-trumps-fav-el-salvador-prison-8896947">'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison</a>
Noem was at the Terrorism Confinement Center to send a message to America&rsquo;s undocumented immigrants.&nbsp;
"If you come to our country illegally, this is one of the consequences you could face,&rdquo; she said during the mass deportation of "illegal immigrants". &ldquo;This facility is one of the tools in our toolkit that we will use if you commit crimes against the American people," she had added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8seqvm5-xa6hhp7v-im1a8486">
As someone looking for any reason to not like these people, is this really worth reporting? Was the Rolex bought with tax payer funds? There is nothing wrong with women owning expensive jewelry. Just like when Kamala had that expensive necklace, it&rsquo;s irrelevant
&mdash; C&bull;S (@CSWSmoving) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSWSmoving/status/1905228677060649096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'On public servant salary?'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-flies-a-lockheed-c-130-people-ask-is-she-a-pilot-8864397">Kristi Noem flies a Lockheed C-130. People ask, 'Is she a pilot?'</a>
The apparent expensive watch drew mixed reactions from people on the internet with some raising questions on her financial capabilities to own the watch while others defended her saying she is a "successful woman".&nbsp;
"How does she buy a Rolex on a public servant salary?" one user on the social media platform X wrote while another said, Isn&rsquo;t she rich? She certainly didn&rsquo;t have to worry about getting robbed."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-chief-kash-patel-gives-competition-to-ice-barbie-kristi-noem-as-he-flexes-his-new-look-see-photos-8840669">FBI chief Kash Patel gives competition to &lsquo;ICE Barbie&rsquo; Kristi Noem as he flexes his new look | See photos</a>
"She&rsquo;s successful. &nbsp;I&rsquo;m sure that pissed you nerds off," one X user defended her.&nbsp;
"Is she not allowed to have a $60k watch?" another asked.&nbsp;
"I just wonder if our taxpayer dollars are paying for her hair extensions, daily hair &amp; makeup, manicures, and all the clothes she wears when she&rsquo;s playing dress up," another user wrote.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-confirms-kristi-noem-as-homeland-security-chief-8631320">US Senate confirms Kristi Noem as homeland security chief</a>
Meanwhile, one dragged former US vice president Kamala Harris in it saying, "There is nothing wrong with women owning expensive jewelry. Just like when Kamala had that expensive necklace, it&rsquo;s irrelevant."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | Kristi Noem was seen wearing a watch reportedly valued at $60,000 drawing attention during a visit to a cell housing Venezuelan prisoners amid immigration policy discussions.

US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem visited a prison camp in El Salvador on Wednesday (March 26) but what grabbed people's attention was her premium gold Rolex. As per the buzz online, the watch costs around $60,000. Noem was seen flaunting the watch - apparently a Rolex Daytona - in front of a cell full of Venezuelan prisoners after Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigrants. Although, no clarification came from Noem's office, netizens wondered how Noem - who was merely a governor in South Dakota until this year - can afford such an expensive watch on government salary. Also read: 'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison Noem was at the Terrorism Confinement Center to send a message to America’s undocumented immigrants. "If you come to our country illegally, this is one of the consequences you could face,” she said during the mass deportation of "illegal immigrants". “This facility is one of the tools in our toolkit that we will use if you commit crimes against the American people," she had added. As someone looking for any reason to not like these people, is this really worth reporting? Was the Rolex bought with tax payer funds? There is nothing wrong with women owning expensive jewelry. Just like when Kamala had that expensive necklace, it’s irrelevant — C•S (@CSWSmoving) March 27, 2025 'On public servant salary?' Also read: Kristi Noem flies a Lockheed C-130. People ask, 'Is she a pilot?' The apparent expensive watch drew mixed reactions from people on the internet with some raising questions on her financial capabilities to own the watch while others defended her saying she is a "successful woman". "How does she buy a Rolex on a public servant salary?" one user on the social media platform X wrote while another said, Isn’t she rich? She certainly didn’t have to worry about getting robbed." Also read: FBI chief Kash Patel gives competition to ‘ICE Barbie’ Kristi Noem as he flexes his new look | See photos "She’s successful. I’m sure that pissed you nerds off," one X user defended her. "Is she not allowed to have a $60k watch?" another asked. "I just wonder if our taxpayer dollars are paying for her hair extensions, daily hair & makeup, manicures, and all the clothes she wears when she’s playing dress up," another user wrote. Also read: US Senate confirms Kristi Noem as homeland security chief Meanwhile, one dragged former US vice president Kamala Harris in it saying, "There is nothing wrong with women owning expensive jewelry. Just like when Kamala had that expensive necklace, it’s irrelevant." (With inputs from agencies)

'How does she buy a Rolex?' Kristi Noem wears '$60k watch' during her visit to Venezuelan prisoners, internet reacts

Elon Musk has said the federal government spent almost $1 billion on a short survey asking whether or not people liked the US National Parks. This is among a number of things his Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE is cracking down on.
&ldquo;We routinely encounter a waste of a billion dollars or more. Casually. This 10 question-survey could&rsquo;ve been done with Survey Monkey for $10,000. The government was being charged almost a billion dollars for that,&rdquo; Musk said during a Fox News interaction along with some DOGE staff on Thursday (Mar 27).
<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/1803_WION_JOB_1230PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1803_WION_JOB_1230PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=91&amp;tags=doge, climate, wion" title="Job cuts by DOGE makes climate watch difficult " id="PL_iframe_block-m8sdmbvo-4a50omax-xq9qpdqy"></iframe>
&nbsp;
Below are the ways in which DOGE says it's saving money by cutting government waste:
<h2>Crackdown on small business loans 'to babies and people not alive'</h2>
This month, the Small Business Administration (SBA) mandated that business loan applicants must provide date and proof of birth, after it emerged that some of the loans allegedly went to people aged above 120. In DOGE's view, these are cases of identity theft or social security fraud.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/baseball-in-space-elon-musk-shares-video-of-japanese-astronaut-plays-solo-game-in-zero-gravity-watch-8893170">'Pitch, hit, and catch': Musk shares video of astronaut playing UNBELIEVABLE baseball in zero gravity | WATCH</a>
In the new online loan application form on the SBA website, there is now an entry for date of birth that the applicants have to fill.
Any direct application with ages below 18 years or above 120 years will not be approved.
&ldquo;Basic sanity checks like these are initial steps towards minimizing fraud in government payment programs,&rdquo; DOGE said in a post on its X handle, which Musk reshared.
He said it will ensure the SBA does not provide loans to children or to people considered too old to be alive.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-back-the-money-asap-trump-asks-doge-to-take-back-8000000-given-to-radical-left-politico-magazine-8897647">'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine</a>
&ldquo;No more loans to babies or people too old to be alive (ie stolen Social Security numbers),&rdquo; he wrote, implying that some people were using stolen Social Security numbers for these loans.
This comes after DOGE found, from data examination of 2020-21, that SBA had granted 3,095 loans worth $333 million to those aged above 115, including one 157-year-old who got a $36,000 loan.
<h2>Savings by cutting grants</h2>
DOGE also said in a post on Thursday (Mar 27) that $577 million grants have been cancelled by various government agencies, giving savings of $237 mn. It called these "America Last' grants.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-war-or-doge-cuts-inside-elon-musks-controversial-pentagon-visit-that-trump-hegseth-rushed-to-defend-8877941">China war or DOGE cuts? Inside Musk&rsquo;s controversial Pentagon visit that Trump, Hegseth rushed to defend</a>
&nbsp;The cancelled grants include:&nbsp; &gt; $10mn for "gender equity in the Mexican workplace" &gt; $12.2mn for "worker empowerment in South America" &gt; &nbsp;$6.25mn for "improving respect for Worker's rights in agricultural supply chains" in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador &gt; $5mn for "elevating women's participation in the workplace" in West Africa &gt; $4.3mn for "assisting foreign migrant workers" in Malaysia &gt; $3mn to "enhance social security access and worker protections for internal migrant workers" in Bangladesh &gt; $3mn for "safe and inclusive work environments" in Lesotho
<h2>Credit card deactivations</h2>
DOGE is also targeting credit cards given to federal workers and contractors.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-us-state-secretary-marco-rubio-usaid-programs-elon-musk-doge-8840639">&lsquo;Thank you to DOGE&rsquo;: Trump&rsquo;s State Secy Rubio slashes 83% of USAID programmes, Musk says &lsquo;tough but necessary&rsquo;</a>
A 'pilot programme' with 16 government agencies carried out an audit of unused or unwanted credit cards. After five weeks of this audit, nearly 298,000 credit cards were de-activated.
DOGE said that there were 4.6mn active cards or accounts at the start of this audit, so there is more work left.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World Business & Economy Trending | Elon Musk has said the federal government spent almost $1 billion on a short survey asking whether or not people liked the US National Parks.

Elon Musk has said the federal government spent almost $1 billion on a short survey asking whether or not people liked the US National Parks. This is among a number of things his Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE is cracking down on. “We routinely encounter a waste of a billion dollars or more. Casually. This 10 question-survey could’ve been done with Survey Monkey for $10,000. The government was being charged almost a billion dollars for that,” Musk said during a Fox News interaction along with some DOGE staff on Thursday (Mar 27). Below are the ways in which DOGE says it's saving money by cutting government waste: Crackdown on small business loans 'to babies and people not alive' This month, the Small Business Administration (SBA) mandated that business loan applicants must provide date and proof of birth, after it emerged that some of the loans allegedly went to people aged above 120. In DOGE's view, these are cases of identity theft or social security fraud. 'Pitch, hit, and catch': Musk shares video of astronaut playing UNBELIEVABLE baseball in zero gravity | WATCH In the new online loan application form on the SBA website, there is now an entry for date of birth that the applicants have to fill. Any direct application with ages below 18 years or above 120 years will not be approved. “Basic sanity checks like these are initial steps towards minimizing fraud in government payment programs,” DOGE said in a post on its X handle, which Musk reshared. He said it will ensure the SBA does not provide loans to children or to people considered too old to be alive. 'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine “No more loans to babies or people too old to be alive (ie stolen Social Security numbers),” he wrote, implying that some people were using stolen Social Security numbers for these loans. This comes after DOGE found, from data examination of 2020-21, that SBA had granted 3,095 loans worth $333 million to those aged above 115, including one 157-year-old who got a $36,000 loan. Savings by cutting grants DOGE also said in a post on Thursday (Mar 27) that $577 million grants have been cancelled by various government agencies, giving savings of $237 mn. It called these "America Last' grants. China war or DOGE cuts? Inside Musk’s controversial Pentagon visit that Trump, Hegseth rushed to defend The cancelled grants include: > $10mn for "gender equity in the Mexican workplace" > $12.2mn for "worker empowerment in South America" > $6.25mn for "improving respect for Worker's rights in agricultural supply chains" in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador > $5mn for "elevating women's participation in the workplace" in West Africa > $4.3mn for "assisting foreign migrant workers" in Malaysia > $3mn to "enhance social security access and worker protections for internal migrant workers" in Bangladesh > $3mn for "safe and inclusive work environments" in Lesotho Credit card deactivations DOGE is also targeting credit cards given to federal workers and contractors. ‘Thank you to DOGE’: Trump’s State Secy Rubio slashes 83% of USAID programmes, Musk says ‘tough but necessary’ A 'pilot programme' with 16 government agencies carried out an audit of unused or unwanted credit cards. After five weeks of this audit, nearly 298,000 credit cards were de-activated. DOGE said that there were 4.6mn active cards or accounts at the start of this audit, so there is more work left. (With inputs from agencies)

$1bn for parks survey; loans to babies and the dead; 298,000 unused credit cards: Musk's DOGE fights US govt waste

Fresh smoke could be seen rising on early Friday (March 28) morning in Yemen&rsquo;s capital Sanaa after&nbsp;Houthi-controlled media reported a new wave of US airstrikes hitting targets across the country.
The airstrikes hit key locations in the capital as well as several&nbsp;Houthi-controlled areas in the country&rsquo;s northwest, the&nbsp;Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV reported. Targets such as the Sanaa International Airport and an army command post the Al-Tahrir district in the heart of the capital were hit, Al-Masirah said, describing the attacks as &ldquo;US aggression&rdquo;. Casualties resulting from the strikes still remain unclear.
The US military has ramped up airstrikes against the&nbsp;Houthis since March 15 in response to&nbsp;Houthi&nbsp;attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Despite a recently leaked conversation between top US intelligence and defence officials held over the chat app Signal, in which a journalist was &ldquo;accidentally&rdquo; added to, the US military has so far declined to publicly offer even basic details about the offensive in Yemen, including how many strikes have been carried out, what senior leaders have been targeted or killed and even whether the operation has a name.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Discover the latest US military actions in Yemen as fresh airstrikes target key locations in Sanaa following Houthi attacks on vital shipping routes in the Red Sea.

Fresh smoke could be seen rising on early Friday (March 28) morning in Yemen’s capital Sanaa after Houthi-controlled media reported a new wave of US airstrikes hitting targets across the country. The airstrikes hit key locations in the capital as well as several Houthi-controlled areas in the country’s northwest, the Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV reported. Targets such as the Sanaa International Airport and an army command post the Al-Tahrir district in the heart of the capital were hit, Al-Masirah said, describing the attacks as “US aggression”. Casualties resulting from the strikes still remain unclear. The US military has ramped up airstrikes against the Houthis since March 15 in response to Houthi attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Despite a recently leaked conversation between top US intelligence and defence officials held over the chat app Signal, in which a journalist was “accidentally” added to, the US military has so far declined to publicly offer even basic details about the offensive in Yemen, including how many strikes have been carried out, what senior leaders have been targeted or killed and even whether the operation has a name. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US hits Yemen’s capital Sanaa with fresh airstrikes after Houthi attacks on shipping routes

Donald Trump's administration has been asked to preserve the messages from the 'Signalgate' chat. On Thursday (Mar 27) a US judge ordered the administration to secure the chats in which top national security officials discussed plans for an attack on Yemen's Huthi rebels.
In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an ongoing anti-terrorist operation claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven other security personnel were injured.&nbsp;
Democrats planned Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as early as 2023 - as per a newly released book. The book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes has cited two unnamed sources and added a new angle into the saga of Biden's declining healthcare.
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ordered-to-preserve-signalgate-chats-amid-growing-controversy-over-leaked-yemen-attack-plans-8898621">Trump ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/27/zHwfS5KSnvkHPHHSDTye.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump speaks to the press as he meets with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on March 13, 2025 as, seated from L to R, Vice Presient JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and standing, special envoy to Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellog (R) and NATO ambassador nominee Matthew Whitaker (C) look on Photograph: (AFP) ">
Donald Trump's administration has been asked to preserve the messages from the 'Signalgate' chat. On Thursday (Mar 27) a US judge ordered the administration to secure the chats in which top national security officials discussed plans for an attack on Yemen's Huthi rebels.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-terrorists-three-police-officers-killed-seven-injured-in-ongoing-anti-terror-operation-in-jks-kathua-8898709">'Pakistan terrorists': Three police officers killed, seven injured in ongoing anti-terror operation in J&amp;K's Kathua</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/24/l1Vs8A4pSWEzsxElAVBt.png" alt=" File Photo: The Indian Army and J&amp;K Police continue a cordon and search operation. Photograph: (ANI) ">In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an ongoing anti-terrorist operation claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven other security personnel were injured.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/might-die-in-office-new-book-reveals-democrats-planned-bidens-2024-president-bid-withdrawal-as-early-as-in-2023-8898774">'Might die in office': New book reveals Democrats planned Biden's 2024 presidential bid withdrawal as early as 2023</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/28/SmpnLQcebSxoA4R1qXyc.png" alt=" 'Might die in office': New book reveals Democrats planned Biden's 2024 president bid withdrawal as early as in 2023 Photograph: (AFP) ">
Democrats planned Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as early as in 2023 - as per a newly released book. The book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes has cited two unnamed sources and added a new angle into the saga pf Biden's declining healthcare.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-kkr-pitch-curator-does-u-turn-in-ajinkya-rahane-episode-says-those-who-are-accusing-me-sujan-mukherjee-8898729">IPL 2025: KKR pitch curator does U-Turn in Rahane episode, says &lsquo;those who are accusing me&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/28/ubNG1pj4ZL05j8h2WzFj.jpg" alt=" IPL 2025 KKR pitch curator does U-Turn in Rahane episode, says &lsquo;those who are accusing me&hellip;&rsquo; Photograph: (AFP) ">
It&rsquo;s been just one week into IPL 2025, and we already have drama surrounding pitches on offer making headlines. Days after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane openly admitted to not getting the pitch of his and his team&rsquo;s liking for the tournament opener against the RCB.&nbsp;
WATCH | Gazans and Israelis march against war, demand peace
<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/2803_WAR_9AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2803_WAR_9AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=163&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="Gazans and Israelis march against war, demand peace" id="PL_iframe_block-m8s9plkb-4l854ddp-861klz2q"></iframe>

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

Donald Trump's administration has been asked to preserve the messages from the 'Signalgate' chat. On Thursday (Mar 27) a US judge ordered the administration to secure the chats in which top national security officials discussed plans for an attack on Yemen's Huthi rebels. In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an ongoing anti-terrorist operation claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven other security personnel were injured. Democrats planned Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as early as 2023 - as per a newly released book. The book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes has cited two unnamed sources and added a new angle into the saga of Biden's declining healthcare. Click on the headlines to read more Trump ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans Donald Trump's administration has been asked to preserve the messages from the 'Signalgate' chat. On Thursday (Mar 27) a US judge ordered the administration to secure the chats in which top national security officials discussed plans for an attack on Yemen's Huthi rebels. 'Pakistan terrorists': Three police officers killed, seven injured in ongoing anti-terror operation in J&K's Kathua In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an ongoing anti-terrorist operation claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven other security personnel were injured. 'Might die in office': New book reveals Democrats planned Biden's 2024 presidential bid withdrawal as early as 2023 Democrats planned Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as early as in 2023 - as per a newly released book. The book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes has cited two unnamed sources and added a new angle into the saga pf Biden's declining healthcare. IPL 2025: KKR pitch curator does U-Turn in Rahane episode, says ‘those who are accusing me…’ It’s been just one week into IPL 2025, and we already have drama surrounding pitches on offer making headlines. Days after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane openly admitted to not getting the pitch of his and his team’s liking for the tournament opener against the RCB. WATCH | Gazans and Israelis march against war, demand peace

Morning news brief: Trump ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats; Three police officers killed in J&K's Kathua, and more

The era of deep economic, security and military ties between Canada and the United States "is over," Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday, after President Donald Trump announced steep auto tariffs.&nbsp;
Trump's planned 25 per cent levy on vehicle imports to the United States is to come into force next week and could be devastating for a Canadian auto industry that supports an estimated 500,000 jobs.&nbsp;
After Trump's announcement, Carney paused his campaign ahead of Canada's April 28 election to return to Ottawa for a meeting of cabinet members working on tactics in the trade war with the United States.&nbsp;
He called Trump's auto tariffs "unjustified," and said they were in breach of existing trade deals between the countries.&nbsp;
He also warned Canadians that Trump had permanently altered relations with the United States and that, regardless of any future trade deals, there would be "no turning back."
"The old relationship we had with the United States based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation is over," Carney said.
He said Canada would retaliate against the auto tariffs.&nbsp;
"Our response to these latest tariffs is to fight, is to protect, is to build," Carney said.&nbsp;
"We will fight the US tariffs with retaliatory trade actions of our own that will have maximum impact in the United States and minimum impacts here in Canada," he added.&nbsp;
Carney replaced Justin Trudeau as prime minister on March 14.&nbsp;
Typically, a new Canadian leader makes a phone call with the US president a priority immediately after taking office but Trump and Carney have not spoken.&nbsp;
He said Thursday that the White House had reached out to schedule a call and that he expected to speak to Trump in the "next day or two."
Carney has also said that while he is willing to talk to Trump, he will not participate in substantive trade negotiations with Washington until the president shows Canada "respect," particularly by ending his repeated annexation threats.
"For me, there are two conditions, not necessarily for a call, but a negotiation with the United States. First Respect, respect for our sovereignty as a country... apparently it's a lot for him," Carney said. &nbsp;
"There has to be comprehensive discussion between the two of us, including with respect to our economy and our security," he added.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Canadian PM Mark Carney declares the end of a close era with the US after Trump's auto tariffs announcement, impacting Canada's auto industry and trade relations.

The era of deep economic, security and military ties between Canada and the United States "is over," Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday, after President Donald Trump announced steep auto tariffs. Trump's planned 25 per cent levy on vehicle imports to the United States is to come into force next week and could be devastating for a Canadian auto industry that supports an estimated 500,000 jobs. After Trump's announcement, Carney paused his campaign ahead of Canada's April 28 election to return to Ottawa for a meeting of cabinet members working on tactics in the trade war with the United States. He called Trump's auto tariffs "unjustified," and said they were in breach of existing trade deals between the countries. He also warned Canadians that Trump had permanently altered relations with the United States and that, regardless of any future trade deals, there would be "no turning back." "The old relationship we had with the United States based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation is over," Carney said. He said Canada would retaliate against the auto tariffs. "Our response to these latest tariffs is to fight, is to protect, is to build," Carney said. "We will fight the US tariffs with retaliatory trade actions of our own that will have maximum impact in the United States and minimum impacts here in Canada," he added. Carney replaced Justin Trudeau as prime minister on March 14. Typically, a new Canadian leader makes a phone call with the US president a priority immediately after taking office but Trump and Carney have not spoken. He said Thursday that the White House had reached out to schedule a call and that he expected to speak to Trump in the "next day or two." Carney has also said that while he is willing to talk to Trump, he will not participate in substantive trade negotiations with Washington until the president shows Canada "respect," particularly by ending his repeated annexation threats. "For me, there are two conditions, not necessarily for a call, but a negotiation with the United States. First Respect, respect for our sovereignty as a country... apparently it's a lot for him," Carney said. "There has to be comprehensive discussion between the two of us, including with respect to our economy and our security," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Era of close Canada-US ties 'over' says PM Carney after Trump's auto tariffs announcement

Democrats planned Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as early as in 2023 - as per a newly released book. The book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes has cited two unnamed sources and added a new angle into the saga of Biden's declining healthcare. A copy of the book - which was published last week - was obtained by The Guardian has revealed that Democrats were in "hush-hush talks" on Biden's removal from the presidential race.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-upholds-bidens-untraceable-ghost-guns-regulation-aims-to-defeat-powerful-gun-lobby-8893963">US Supreme Court upholds Biden's untraceable 'ghost guns' regulation, aims to defeat powerful gun lobby</a>
Moreover, it said that Kamala Harris' close aides "strategised around the possibility that Biden might die in office".&nbsp;
All such planning was led by Jamal Simmons, Harris&rsquo;s White House communications director - the book claimed. Simmons allegedly drew up of a &ldquo;death-pool roster&rdquo; of federal judges who might swear Harris in, the British newspaper reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usa-usa-trump-receives-cheerful-welcome-by-fans-that-biden-would-never-8883718">'USA! USA!': Trump receives cheerful welcome by 'fans' that Biden 'would never'</a>
He "never told the vice president about the death-pool roster before leaving her camp in January 2023," the authors write, "but he advised colleagues that he should be notified immediately if something happened to Biden, because he had worked out an entire communications strategy. And he left the spreadsheet with another Harris aide," Allen and Parnes wrote in the book.&nbsp;
This is the third book by the authors after studies of Donald Trump&rsquo;s win over Hillary Clinton in 2016 and defeat by Biden in 2020.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-jessica-aber-biden-nominated-former-us-attorney-found-dead-at-home-8882113">Who Was Jessica Aber? Biden-nominated former US Attorney found dead at home</a>
The book also talked about some prominent events after Biden's removal - Harris being frustrated after being unable to distance herself from Biden, the "unpopular president" and also her team&rsquo;s failure to land an interview with Joe Rogan. Trump had secured a three-hour long interview with the American YouTuber that became a key moment for his presidential bid in November 2024.&nbsp;
&ldquo;A handful of Democratic National Committee officials already had considered contingency plans,&rdquo; Allen and Parnes write. &ldquo;In hush-hush talks starting in 2023, these officials gamed out Biden-withdrawal scenarios, according to two people familiar with them," they added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/drug-trafficker-who-was-released-thanks-to-bidens-clemency-re-arrested-for-multiple-drug-offences-8874997">Drug trafficker who was released thanks to Biden&rsquo;s Clemency, re-arrested for multiple drug offences</a>
&ldquo;They wanted to make sure the party was ready for every possible circumstance: if Biden launched his campaign and then stepped aside before the primaries; if he won a bunch of primaries and then could not continue. If he secured enough delegates for winning the nomination but dropped out before winning a floor vote at the convention, and if he left a vacancy at the top of the ticket after taking the nomination," the book claimed.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | All such planning was  led by Jamal Simmons, Harris’s White House communications director - the book claimed. Simmons allegedly drew up of a “death-pool roster” of federal judges who might swear Harris in, the British newspaper reported.

Democrats planned Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as early as in 2023 - as per a newly released book. The book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes has cited two unnamed sources and added a new angle into the saga of Biden's declining healthcare. A copy of the book - which was published last week - was obtained by The Guardian has revealed that Democrats were in "hush-hush talks" on Biden's removal from the presidential race. Also read: US Supreme Court upholds Biden's untraceable 'ghost guns' regulation, aims to defeat powerful gun lobby Moreover, it said that Kamala Harris' close aides "strategised around the possibility that Biden might die in office". All such planning was led by Jamal Simmons, Harris’s White House communications director - the book claimed. Simmons allegedly drew up of a “death-pool roster” of federal judges who might swear Harris in, the British newspaper reported. Also read: 'USA! USA!': Trump receives cheerful welcome by 'fans' that Biden 'would never' He "never told the vice president about the death-pool roster before leaving her camp in January 2023," the authors write, "but he advised colleagues that he should be notified immediately if something happened to Biden, because he had worked out an entire communications strategy. And he left the spreadsheet with another Harris aide," Allen and Parnes wrote in the book. This is the third book by the authors after studies of Donald Trump’s win over Hillary Clinton in 2016 and defeat by Biden in 2020. Also read: Who Was Jessica Aber? Biden-nominated former US Attorney found dead at home The book also talked about some prominent events after Biden's removal - Harris being frustrated after being unable to distance herself from Biden, the "unpopular president" and also her team’s failure to land an interview with Joe Rogan. Trump had secured a three-hour long interview with the American YouTuber that became a key moment for his presidential bid in November 2024. “A handful of Democratic National Committee officials already had considered contingency plans,” Allen and Parnes write. “In hush-hush talks starting in 2023, these officials gamed out Biden-withdrawal scenarios, according to two people familiar with them," they added. Also read: Drug trafficker who was released thanks to Biden’s Clemency, re-arrested for multiple drug offences “They wanted to make sure the party was ready for every possible circumstance: if Biden launched his campaign and then stepped aside before the primaries; if he won a bunch of primaries and then could not continue. If he secured enough delegates for winning the nomination but dropped out before winning a floor vote at the convention, and if he left a vacancy at the top of the ticket after taking the nomination," the book claimed. (With inputs from agencies)

'Might die in office': New book reveals Democrats planned Biden's presidential bid withdrawal as early as 2023

United States President Donald Trump is on a pullback spree. He is ending departments, blocking foreign aid and moving forward with the overhaul of various actions and plans that have been in place for years. His administration is also rolling back pollution protections, and this could have a devastating effect on the country, an expert has warned.
American ecologist Gene Likens warns that Trump's move against environmental policies can trigger the return of a major problem that has been unheard of for years. Likens discovered in the 1960s that North America was witnessing a phenomenon called acid rain. He has warned that the way the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been going after clean air and water regulations under Trump can spell disaster, bringing back acidic rain along with smog, he told Guardian.
Also Read: <a title="Post View" href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/climate-change-is-changing-behaviour-of-crocodiles-study-8748766" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener">Climate change is changing behaviour of crocodiles: Study</a>
The US has had rules to curb toxic emissions from power plants, cars and trucks in place, and a sudden and can mean the return of acid rain in the US, Likens said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m very worried that might happen, it&rsquo;s certainly not impossible that it could happen,&rdquo; the 90-year-old told Guardian.
<h2>When was acid rain first found?</h2>
Notably, the Trump administration has cut funding to a program that samples rainwater for acidity. The program has been running since 1976, and Likens is a part of the monitoring group. &ldquo;I hope we don&rsquo;t go back to the old days, so these rollbacks are very alarming,&rdquo; Likens said.
Also Read: <a title="Post View" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-admin-will-withdraw-from-paris-climate-accord-8638864" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener">US President Donald Trump's admin will withdraw from Paris Climate Accord</a>
Likens first chanced upon acid rain in 1963 when he found that the rainwater in Hubbard Brook Experimental forest in the White Mountains of New Hampshire was 100 times more acidic than expected. More research followed this discovery and scientists concluded that pollutants in the air were mixing with water to form acid rain.&nbsp;
This was primarily because of the pollutants released by coal-fired power plants in the American midwest that were reaching the eastern US and Canada. Researchers found that sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides were reacting with water and oxygen to form sulfuric and nitric acids, which fell to the ground as acid rain.
<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/2403_SUMIT_OCEANS_11PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2403_SUMIT_OCEANS_11PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=215&amp;tags=Climate, Global Warming, World News, WION" title="CO2 and heat absorption by oceans could regulate climate" id="PL_iframe_block-m8s8cdst-5n6tkz4k-5c1m3csn"></iframe>
Rainwater became 10 times more acidic by 1980 and started affecting marine life in lakes, the soil and damaged plants and trees. Some man-made structures were also bearing the brunt. Calls for action ensued, and politicians finally sat up and took notice.
<h2>Government acts against acid rain</h2>
An update to the Clean Air Act targetting power plant pollution was passed in 1990 by the Congress and signed by President George HW Bush.&nbsp;
Likens said that acidity in rainwater in the White Mountains region has fallen by 85 per cent from the peak period in the 1970s. He fears that if controls on emissions are released, "we are going to destroy that success story."
Worryingly, the EPA has plans to eliminate or weaken 31 regulations. The agency's own analysis says that these rules have prevented extra deaths and several heart, lung and other illnesses i the country. So, if these end, public health might take a bad hit.
However, some experts think that acid rain cannot return to the US since coal has been replaced as a fuel source in industries in favour of cleaner-burning gas and renewables. But Trump has been talking in favour of bringing back coal, which could change things.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Can acid rain return to the US? The man who discovered that sulfuric and nitric acids were raining down has issued a warning. World Trending

United States President Donald Trump is on a pullback spree. He is ending departments, blocking foreign aid and moving forward with the overhaul of various actions and plans that have been in place for years. His administration is also rolling back pollution protections, and this could have a devastating effect on the country, an expert has warned. American ecologist Gene Likens warns that Trump's move against environmental policies can trigger the return of a major problem that has been unheard of for years. Likens discovered in the 1960s that North America was witnessing a phenomenon called acid rain. He has warned that the way the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been going after clean air and water regulations under Trump can spell disaster, bringing back acidic rain along with smog, he told Guardian. Also Read: Climate change is changing behaviour of crocodiles: Study The US has had rules to curb toxic emissions from power plants, cars and trucks in place, and a sudden and can mean the return of acid rain in the US, Likens said. “I’m very worried that might happen, it’s certainly not impossible that it could happen,” the 90-year-old told Guardian. When was acid rain first found? Notably, the Trump administration has cut funding to a program that samples rainwater for acidity. The program has been running since 1976, and Likens is a part of the monitoring group. “I hope we don’t go back to the old days, so these rollbacks are very alarming,” Likens said. Also Read: US President Donald Trump's admin will withdraw from Paris Climate Accord Likens first chanced upon acid rain in 1963 when he found that the rainwater in Hubbard Brook Experimental forest in the White Mountains of New Hampshire was 100 times more acidic than expected. More research followed this discovery and scientists concluded that pollutants in the air were mixing with water to form acid rain. This was primarily because of the pollutants released by coal-fired power plants in the American midwest that were reaching the eastern US and Canada. Researchers found that sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides were reacting with water and oxygen to form sulfuric and nitric acids, which fell to the ground as acid rain. Rainwater became 10 times more acidic by 1980 and started affecting marine life in lakes, the soil and damaged plants and trees. Some man-made structures were also bearing the brunt. Calls for action ensued, and politicians finally sat up and took notice. Government acts against acid rain An update to the Clean Air Act targetting power plant pollution was passed in 1990 by the Congress and signed by President George HW Bush. Likens said that acidity in rainwater in the White Mountains region has fallen by 85 per cent from the peak period in the 1970s. He fears that if controls on emissions are released, "we are going to destroy that success story." Worryingly, the EPA has plans to eliminate or weaken 31 regulations. The agency's own analysis says that these rules have prevented extra deaths and several heart, lung and other illnesses i the country. So, if these end, public health might take a bad hit. However, some experts think that acid rain cannot return to the US since coal has been replaced as a fuel source in industries in favour of cleaner-burning gas and renewables. But Trump has been talking in favour of bringing back coal, which could change things.

Scientist who discovered acid rain warns it could return under Trump

Another US judge on Thursday temporarily blocked Donald Trump's ban on transgender troops, dealing a further blow to the president's efforts to prevent trans people from serving in the military.
"Absent an injunction, all transgender service members are likely to suffer the irreparable harm of losing the military service career they have chosen, while otherwise qualified accession plaintiffs will lose the opportunity to serve," Judge Benjamin H. Settle wrote.
The preliminary injunction maintains "the status quo of military policy regarding both active-duty and prospective transgender service that existed nationwide" before Trump issued an executive order targeting transgender military service earlier this year, according to Settle.
"This order applies to all plaintiffs and any similarly situated individuals nationwide, including those serving out of country," the judge wrote.
Settle's order follows one issued last week by Judge Ana C. Reyes that likewise temporarily blocks the ban on trans troops.
The Trump administration has already appealed Reyes's order, which is set to go into effect on Friday evening.
A third judge issued a temporary restraining order earlier this week barring the government from dismissing two specific plaintiffs from the military based on their transgender status, but unlike the other two orders, it does not affect the military as a whole.
In a January 27 executive order, Trump stated that "expressing a false 'gender identity' divergent from an individual's sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service."
The Pentagon followed that up with a memo issued in late February stating that it would remove transgender troops from the military unless they obtain a waiver on a case-by-case basis, as well as prevent others from joining.
If the ban goes into effect, it could affect thousands of currently serving troops.
The restrictions in the memo are aimed at those who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria -- of whom there were 4,240 serving in the military as of late last year, according to a senior defense official -- as well as those who have a history of that condition.
Transgender Americans have faced a roller coaster of changing policies on military service in recent years, with Democratic administrations seeking to permit them to serve openly, while Trump has repeatedly sought to keep them out of the ranks.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

A US judge temporarily blocks Trump's transgender military ban, protecting transgender troops from losing their careers and enabling them to continue serving in the military.

Another US judge on Thursday temporarily blocked Donald Trump's ban on transgender troops, dealing a further blow to the president's efforts to prevent trans people from serving in the military. "Absent an injunction, all transgender service members are likely to suffer the irreparable harm of losing the military service career they have chosen, while otherwise qualified accession plaintiffs will lose the opportunity to serve," Judge Benjamin H. Settle wrote. The preliminary injunction maintains "the status quo of military policy regarding both active-duty and prospective transgender service that existed nationwide" before Trump issued an executive order targeting transgender military service earlier this year, according to Settle. "This order applies to all plaintiffs and any similarly situated individuals nationwide, including those serving out of country," the judge wrote. Settle's order follows one issued last week by Judge Ana C. Reyes that likewise temporarily blocks the ban on trans troops. The Trump administration has already appealed Reyes's order, which is set to go into effect on Friday evening. A third judge issued a temporary restraining order earlier this week barring the government from dismissing two specific plaintiffs from the military based on their transgender status, but unlike the other two orders, it does not affect the military as a whole. In a January 27 executive order, Trump stated that "expressing a false 'gender identity' divergent from an individual's sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service." The Pentagon followed that up with a memo issued in late February stating that it would remove transgender troops from the military unless they obtain a waiver on a case-by-case basis, as well as prevent others from joining. If the ban goes into effect, it could affect thousands of currently serving troops. The restrictions in the memo are aimed at those who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria -- of whom there were 4,240 serving in the military as of late last year, according to a senior defense official -- as well as those who have a history of that condition. Transgender Americans have faced a roller coaster of changing policies on military service in recent years, with Democratic administrations seeking to permit them to serve openly, while Trump has repeatedly sought to keep them out of the ranks. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Judge blocks Trump's transgender military ban, dealing another blow to president’s policy

Donald Trump's administration has been asked to preserve the messages from the 'Signalgate' chat. On Thursday (Mar 27) a US judge ordered the administration to secure the chats in which top national security officials discussed plans for an attack on Yemen's Huthi rebels.
<h2>Pressure builds</h2>
District Judge James Boasberg, as per AFP, ordered the Trump government to "preserve all Signal communication between March 11 and March 15."
This would cover the period between the creation of the chat by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz &mdash; mistakenly adding Jeffrey Goldberg &mdash; and the day US airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthis were carried out.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-mark-carney-slams-donald-trumps-latest-auto-tariffs-calls-it-direct-attack-8898265">Canadian PM Mark Carney slams Donald Trump's latest auto tariffs, calls it 'direct attack'</a>
The judge also ordered the government to file by Monday (Mar 31) details on the steps taken the government to preserve the messages.&nbsp;
This ruling adds pressure on the White House, still reeling from the controversy that erupted after The Atlantic magazine revealed that its editor was "accidentally" added to the chat on the encrypted chat application Signal.
<h2>Witch-hunt?</h2>
Trump has sought to dismiss the scandal as a "witch-hunt" while attacking Goldberg and The Atlantic for breaking the story earlier this week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-back-the-money-asap-trump-asks-doge-to-take-back-8000000-given-to-radical-left-politico-magazine-8897647">'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine</a>
While denying that any classified information was shared in the group, Trump largely pinned the blame on Waltz, saying he has admitted he was "responsible" for the blunder.
Dismissing calls by democrats for the top officials involved in the chat to resign, Trump also sought to shift the spotlight to what he called the success of the raids on Yemeni rebel Houthis.
However, pressure continues to mount over the "Signalgate".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-russian-state-tv-mocks-trump-officials-for-leaked-yemen-air-strike-plans-says-they-want-to-get-in-this-chat-8896323">Watch: Russian state TV mocks Trump officials for leaked Yemen air strike plans, says they want to 'get in' THIS chat</a>
On Thursday, The top Republican and Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee issued a bipartisan call for a Pentagon probe into the Atlantic's claims that the chat, among other things, "may have violated federal records law".
"If true, this reporting raises questions as to the use of unclassified networks to discuss sensitive and classified information," said a letter from Republican committee chair Roger Wicker and ranking Democrat Jack Reed.
(With inputs from agencies)

Explore the controversy surrounding Trump's administration as a judge orders the preservation of 'Signalgate' chats linked to Yemen attack plans, intensifying scrutiny.

Donald Trump's administration has been asked to preserve the messages from the 'Signalgate' chat. On Thursday (Mar 27) a US judge ordered the administration to secure the chats in which top national security officials discussed plans for an attack on Yemen's Huthi rebels. Pressure builds District Judge James Boasberg, as per AFP, ordered the Trump government to "preserve all Signal communication between March 11 and March 15." This would cover the period between the creation of the chat by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz — mistakenly adding Jeffrey Goldberg — and the day US airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthis were carried out. Also read | Canadian PM Mark Carney slams Donald Trump's latest auto tariffs, calls it 'direct attack' The judge also ordered the government to file by Monday (Mar 31) details on the steps taken the government to preserve the messages. This ruling adds pressure on the White House, still reeling from the controversy that erupted after The Atlantic magazine revealed that its editor was "accidentally" added to the chat on the encrypted chat application Signal. Witch-hunt? Trump has sought to dismiss the scandal as a "witch-hunt" while attacking Goldberg and The Atlantic for breaking the story earlier this week. Also read | 'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine While denying that any classified information was shared in the group, Trump largely pinned the blame on Waltz, saying he has admitted he was "responsible" for the blunder. Dismissing calls by democrats for the top officials involved in the chat to resign, Trump also sought to shift the spotlight to what he called the success of the raids on Yemeni rebel Houthis. However, pressure continues to mount over the "Signalgate". Also read | Watch: Russian state TV mocks Trump officials for leaked Yemen air strike plans, says they want to 'get in' THIS chat On Thursday, The top Republican and Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee issued a bipartisan call for a Pentagon probe into the Atlantic's claims that the chat, among other things, "may have violated federal records law". "If true, this reporting raises questions as to the use of unclassified networks to discuss sensitive and classified information," said a letter from Republican committee chair Roger Wicker and ranking Democrat Jack Reed. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump admin ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres expressed concern Thursday about "alarming" developments in South Sudan, saying the arrest of the country's vice president brings it closer to civil war, according to a UN spokesman.
"The secretary-general is following with deep concern the alarming situation in South Sudan," Stephane Dujarric told reporters, referring specifically to the arrest and detention of the first vice president by forces loyal to President Salva Kiir.
Machar and Kiir are longstanding rivals who entered a power-sharing deal in 2018 which has been gradually unravelling, risking a return of the civil war that killed around 400,000 people in the African nation.
Machar's house arrest "takes the country yet one step closer to the edge of collapse into civil war and the dismantling of the peace agreement," said Dujarric, calling for the official's release.
He urged South Sudan's leaders to "resolve their grievances" and put the interests of the people first.
"We want to see a return to the revitalized peace agreement and that would include restoring the freedom of the first vice president," Dujarric added.
The population "can ill afford to endure the consequences of yet another civil war," Dujarric said, noting that 9.3 million South Sudanese "are already in need of some form of humanitarian assistance with conflict, climate change and economic crisis, keeping too many people on the verge of survival."
South Sudan, which declared independence from Sudan in 2011, has remained plagued by poverty and insecurity since the peace deal in 2018.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World news: Machar's house arrest "takes the country yet one step closer to the edge of collapse into civil war and the dismantling of the peace agreement," said Dujarric, calling for the official's release.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres expressed concern Thursday about "alarming" developments in South Sudan, saying the arrest of the country's vice president brings it closer to civil war, according to a UN spokesman. "The secretary-general is following with deep concern the alarming situation in South Sudan," Stephane Dujarric told reporters, referring specifically to the arrest and detention of the first vice president by forces loyal to President Salva Kiir. Machar and Kiir are longstanding rivals who entered a power-sharing deal in 2018 which has been gradually unravelling, risking a return of the civil war that killed around 400,000 people in the African nation. Machar's house arrest "takes the country yet one step closer to the edge of collapse into civil war and the dismantling of the peace agreement," said Dujarric, calling for the official's release. He urged South Sudan's leaders to "resolve their grievances" and put the interests of the people first. "We want to see a return to the revitalized peace agreement and that would include restoring the freedom of the first vice president," Dujarric added. The population "can ill afford to endure the consequences of yet another civil war," Dujarric said, noting that 9.3 million South Sudanese "are already in need of some form of humanitarian assistance with conflict, climate change and economic crisis, keeping too many people on the verge of survival." South Sudan, which declared independence from Sudan in 2011, has remained plagued by poverty and insecurity since the peace deal in 2018. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Arrest of South Sudan VP brings nation closer to civil war, UN warns

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney strongly condemned US President Donald Trump's newly imposed auto tariffs, labeling them a "direct attack" on Canada. Carney emphasized that the tariffs would not only harm his country but also have a negative impact on Americans, stating that the trade war is "hurting" them.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This is a very direct attack. We will defend our workers. We will defend our companies. We will defend our country," AP quoted Carney as saying.
The Canadian PM said that before moving forward with retaliatory measures, he would review the details of Trump's executive order.
Calling it "unjustified", he said that he would leave the election campaign and head to Ottawa to chair his special Cabinet committee on US relations.
Earlier, Carney had announced a CA$ 2 billion ($1.4 billion) &ldquo;strategic response fund&rdquo; that he said would safeguard Canadian auto jobs affected by Trump&rsquo;s tariffs.&nbsp;
Carney highlighted that Autos are his country's second-largest export and that the sector employs 125,000 Canadians directly and almost another 500,000 in industries related to it.
&ldquo;Canada will be there for auto workers,&rdquo; he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-back-the-money-asap-trump-asks-doge-to-take-back-8000000-given-to-radical-left-politico-magazine-8897647">Also read: 'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine</a>
<h2>Trump's steep tariffs on imported vehicles and parts</h2>
Global leaders slammed Trump on Thursday (Mar 27), over the steep tariffs on imported vehicles and parts, vowing retaliation as trade tensions intensify and price hikes appear on the horizon.
Major car exporter Germany urged a firm response from the European Union, while Japan said that it "will consider all options."
The 25 percent US duties will take effect starting 12:01 am Washington time (0401 GMT) on April 3 and impact foreign-made cars, light trucks and vehicle parts.
French Finance Minister Eric Lombard said the only solution for the EU is to "raise tariffs on American products in response."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Carney highlighted that Autos are his country's second-largest export and that the sector employs 125,000 Canadians directly and almost another 500,000 in industries related to it.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney strongly condemned US President Donald Trump's newly imposed auto tariffs, labeling them a "direct attack" on Canada. Carney emphasized that the tariffs would not only harm his country but also have a negative impact on Americans, stating that the trade war is "hurting" them. “This is a very direct attack. We will defend our workers. We will defend our companies. We will defend our country," AP quoted Carney as saying. The Canadian PM said that before moving forward with retaliatory measures, he would review the details of Trump's executive order. Calling it "unjustified", he said that he would leave the election campaign and head to Ottawa to chair his special Cabinet committee on US relations. Earlier, Carney had announced a CA$ 2 billion ($1.4 billion) “strategic response fund” that he said would safeguard Canadian auto jobs affected by Trump’s tariffs. Carney highlighted that Autos are his country's second-largest export and that the sector employs 125,000 Canadians directly and almost another 500,000 in industries related to it. “Canada will be there for auto workers,” he said. Also read: 'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine Trump's steep tariffs on imported vehicles and parts Global leaders slammed Trump on Thursday (Mar 27), over the steep tariffs on imported vehicles and parts, vowing retaliation as trade tensions intensify and price hikes appear on the horizon. Major car exporter Germany urged a firm response from the European Union, while Japan said that it "will consider all options." The 25 percent US duties will take effect starting 12:01 am Washington time (0401 GMT) on April 3 and impact foreign-made cars, light trucks and vehicle parts. French Finance Minister Eric Lombard said the only solution for the EU is to "raise tariffs on American products in response." (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian PM Mark Carney slams Donald Trump's latest auto tariffs, calls it 'direct attack'

Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian student enrolled at Columbia University, who self-deported to Canada after her student visa was revoked for allegedly supporting Hamas, broke the silence about her ordeal on Thursday (March 27).&nbsp;
The 37-year-old Indian PhD student never imagined that her academic journey at the Ivy League university would come to such a drastic end.&nbsp;
She stressed that her university, Columbia University has "let her down", hoping that her enrolment at the university will be restored.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-targeting-me-for-political-beliefs-mahmoud-khalil-decries-arrest-in-his-first-public-statement-8869784">Trump admin targeting me for 'political beliefs': Mahmoud Khalil decries arrest in his first public statement</a>
Srinivasan was accused of being a supporter and sympathiser of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. She was about to complete her PhD when US President Donald Trump's administration revoked her student visa for her alleged involvement in propagating and aligning with Hamas.
Her student visa was renewed in December - just a month before Trump's inauguration at the White House.
"I spent five years at Columbia University, working, I don't know, maybe 100 hours a week sometimes. I never expected the institution to let me down. But it did," she told Al Jazeera in an interview.
"I hope Columbia comes to its senses and re-enrolls me," she said, hoping for fairness and justice from an institution of global repute.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jewish-protesters-fill-nys-trump-tower-demanding-mahmoud-khalils-release-98-arrested-8852116">Jewish protesters fill NY's Trump Tower demanding pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil's release, 98 arrested</a>
"All the requirements for my PhD are complete, and whatever is left, I don't even need to be in the US for it," she said, adding "So, I'm trying to appeal to Columbia" for them to do their bit.
<h2>How was she self deported?</h2>
Srinivasan received an email on March 6 when she woke up in her Columbia-owned apartment from the US consulate in Chennai, informing her that her visa had been cancelled.&nbsp;
She immediately checked the official immigration portal and found confirmation that her visa, which was renewed months earlier until 2029, was no longer valid.
As she panicked, Srinivasan contacted Columbia's International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).&nbsp;
Also read: <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>
Later, the office assured her that her student status (I-20) was still intact and scheduled a Zoom meeting for the next day.
The Next day, ten minutes into that Zoom call, there was a knock on her door.&nbsp;
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement were on the door, who without properly identifying themselves, demanded entry, and said they intended to place her in removal proceedings. Her roommate refused to open the door.
&ldquo;I freaked out. Why is ICE at my door?&rdquo; Srinivasan recalled. &ldquo;You live in Columbia housing, a place you&rsquo;d consider safe. The fact that they entered without a warrant was terrifying.&rdquo;
The ISSO adviser on the call, visibly shocked, muted herself to make frantic calls before providing Srinivasan with a list of lawyers. She said Columbia&rsquo;s Public Safety advised her not to open the door but offered little else.
The next day, the agents returned to her door, warning that they would keep coming "every day" until she was placed in removal proceedings.&nbsp;
It was the same day when Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian Green Card holder and protest leader, was arrested from Columbia housing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-indian-columbia-student-ranjani-srinivasan-doged-immigration-officials-before-self-deporting-8859224">&lsquo;Feared for my life&rsquo;: How Columbia student ai Srinivasan dodged immigration officials before &lsquo;self-deporting&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s when I realized I have no rights in this system,&rdquo; Srinivasan said. &ldquo;Columbia knew ICE was operating on campus but seemed uninterested in intervening.&rdquo;
And, by March 9, Columbia revoked her student's status and ordered her to vacate university housing.&nbsp;
However, she did not wait for deportation and with no legal recourse, she packed a single bag, leaving behind her furniture, belongings, and even her cat, Cricket&mdash;and fled to Canada on March 11 using a visitor visa she had previously secured for academic workshops and conferences.
Three days later, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem posted a photo of Srinivasan on X, calling her a "terrorist sympathiser" and claiming that she had "self-deported" using a border control app.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If supporting the idea of human rights or ending a genocide is equated with supporting Hamas, then anyone in proximity to me &ndash; without me having done anything &ndash; can just be picked up and made an example of,&rdquo; Srinivasan said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The 37-year-old Indian PhD student Ranjani Srinivasan never imagined that her academic journey at the Ivy League university would come to such a drastic end.

Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian student enrolled at Columbia University, who self-deported to Canada after her student visa was revoked for allegedly supporting Hamas, broke the silence about her ordeal on Thursday (March 27). The 37-year-old Indian PhD student never imagined that her academic journey at the Ivy League university would come to such a drastic end. She stressed that her university, Columbia University has "let her down", hoping that her enrolment at the university will be restored. Also read: Trump admin targeting me for 'political beliefs': Mahmoud Khalil decries arrest in his first public statement Srinivasan was accused of being a supporter and sympathiser of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. She was about to complete her PhD when US President Donald Trump's administration revoked her student visa for her alleged involvement in propagating and aligning with Hamas. Her student visa was renewed in December - just a month before Trump's inauguration at the White House. "I spent five years at Columbia University, working, I don't know, maybe 100 hours a week sometimes. I never expected the institution to let me down. But it did," she told Al Jazeera in an interview. "I hope Columbia comes to its senses and re-enrolls me," she said, hoping for fairness and justice from an institution of global repute. Also read: Jewish protesters fill NY's Trump Tower demanding pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil's release, 98 arrested "All the requirements for my PhD are complete, and whatever is left, I don't even need to be in the US for it," she said, adding "So, I'm trying to appeal to Columbia" for them to do their bit. How was she self deported? Srinivasan received an email on March 6 when she woke up in her Columbia-owned apartment from the US consulate in Chennai, informing her that her visa had been cancelled. She immediately checked the official immigration portal and found confirmation that her visa, which was renewed months earlier until 2029, was no longer valid. As she panicked, Srinivasan contacted Columbia's International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). Also read: Columbia University student, permanent US resident, sues Trump administration for trying to deport her Later, the office assured her that her student status (I-20) was still intact and scheduled a Zoom meeting for the next day. The Next day, ten minutes into that Zoom call, there was a knock on her door. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement were on the door, who without properly identifying themselves, demanded entry, and said they intended to place her in removal proceedings. Her roommate refused to open the door. “I freaked out. Why is ICE at my door?” Srinivasan recalled. “You live in Columbia housing, a place you’d consider safe. The fact that they entered without a warrant was terrifying.” The ISSO adviser on the call, visibly shocked, muted herself to make frantic calls before providing Srinivasan with a list of lawyers. She said Columbia’s Public Safety advised her not to open the door but offered little else. The next day, the agents returned to her door, warning that they would keep coming "every day" until she was placed in removal proceedings. It was the same day when Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian Green Card holder and protest leader, was arrested from Columbia housing. Also read: ‘Feared for my life’: How Columbia student ai Srinivasan dodged immigration officials before ‘self-deporting’ “That’s when I realized I have no rights in this system,” Srinivasan said. “Columbia knew ICE was operating on campus but seemed uninterested in intervening.” And, by March 9, Columbia revoked her student's status and ordered her to vacate university housing. However, she did not wait for deportation and with no legal recourse, she packed a single bag, leaving behind her furniture, belongings, and even her cat, Cricket—and fled to Canada on March 11 using a visitor visa she had previously secured for academic workshops and conferences. Three days later, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem posted a photo of Srinivasan on X, calling her a "terrorist sympathiser" and claiming that she had "self-deported" using a border control app. “If supporting the idea of human rights or ending a genocide is equated with supporting Hamas, then anyone in proximity to me – without me having done anything – can just be picked up and made an example of,” Srinivasan said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Left my cat behind...': Indian student who self-deported from US says, 'Columbia let me down'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday probably hesitated to advise the US to impose sanctions on Russia for not accepting the ceasefire offer.&nbsp;
While addressing the press conference after a meeting of the "coalition of the willing" on Ukraine, Zelensky suggested the US should have imposed sanctions on Russia when it rejected the US proposal for a full ceasefire.&nbsp;
However, right after saying that, he took a pause as he probably remembered the Oval Office spat with President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grateful-to-us-trump-immensely-thankful-zelensky-hints-at-being-friends-with-trump-after-ugly-wh-spat-8768650">'Grateful to US, Trump': 'Immensely' thankful Zelensky, hints at being friends with Trump after ugly WH&nbsp;spat</a>
"Okay, let&rsquo;s just make a pause and not just tell America, advise America what to do. They have their own people who can advise," Zelensky added.&nbsp;
US President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelensky got into a war of words at the White House earlier this month.
He also pointed out that Ukraine keeps agreeing to US proposals without making any changes, however, Russia effectively keeps rejecting them, demanding late adjustments or introducing new conditions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-support-for-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-day-after-spat-with-us-president-donald-trump-8769671">'For as long as it may take': UK PM Keir Starmer affirms support for Zelensky day after spat with Trump</a>
During the conference, Zelensky also stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is the only blockage to progress in peace talks, saying that he is ready for talks in any possible format.
He also urged Trump to back Ukraine against Russia and offered adequacy security guarantees if the US blocked Ukraine&rsquo;s accession to NATO.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wants-to-divide-europe-us-zelensky-stresses-washington-stance-on-russia-should-be-stronger-8897747">'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger</a>
The Ukrainian president added that the US could play a critical role in enforcing the ceasefire or peace deal, as its military power would make Russia aware there would be serious consequences of breaking whatever is agreed.
Zelensky said that Ukraine would not recognise any part of its occupied territory as Russian.
Moreover, he further warned that Russia does not want peace in Ukraine and seeks to divide Europe and America, as he urged the US to take a stronger line.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scheduled-a-meeting-us-ukraine-to-hold-talks-once-again-days-after-white-house-spat-8811646">'Scheduled a meeting': US, Ukraine to hold talks once again days after White House spat</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested the US should have imposed sanctions on Russia when it rejected the US proposal for a full ceasefire.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday probably hesitated to advise the US to impose sanctions on Russia for not accepting the ceasefire offer. While addressing the press conference after a meeting of the "coalition of the willing" on Ukraine, Zelensky suggested the US should have imposed sanctions on Russia when it rejected the US proposal for a full ceasefire. However, right after saying that, he took a pause as he probably remembered the Oval Office spat with President Donald Trump. Also read: 'Grateful to US, Trump': 'Immensely' thankful Zelensky, hints at being friends with Trump after ugly WH spat "Okay, let’s just make a pause and not just tell America, advise America what to do. They have their own people who can advise," Zelensky added. US President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelensky got into a war of words at the White House earlier this month. He also pointed out that Ukraine keeps agreeing to US proposals without making any changes, however, Russia effectively keeps rejecting them, demanding late adjustments or introducing new conditions. Also read: 'For as long as it may take': UK PM Keir Starmer affirms support for Zelensky day after spat with Trump During the conference, Zelensky also stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is the only blockage to progress in peace talks, saying that he is ready for talks in any possible format. He also urged Trump to back Ukraine against Russia and offered adequacy security guarantees if the US blocked Ukraine’s accession to NATO. Also read: 'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger The Ukrainian president added that the US could play a critical role in enforcing the ceasefire or peace deal, as its military power would make Russia aware there would be serious consequences of breaking whatever is agreed. Zelensky said that Ukraine would not recognise any part of its occupied territory as Russian. Moreover, he further warned that Russia does not want peace in Ukraine and seeks to divide Europe and America, as he urged the US to take a stronger line. Also read: 'Scheduled a meeting': US, Ukraine to hold talks once again days after White House spat (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky scared of Trump? Ukrainian president takes a step back after 'advising' US to impose sanctions on Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Washington's stance on Russia should be "stronger" as Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the US.&nbsp;
In other news, US clarified concerns of New Delhi on the treatment of Indians deported from the US last month.
Meanwhile, a stabbing attack in Amsterdam injured five people.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wants-to-divide-europe-us-zelensky-stresses-washington-stance-on-russia-should-be-stronger-8897747">'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington stance on Russia should be stronger</a>
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (March 27) stressed that the US stance on Russia should be "stronger" as Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the US.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-women-children-restrained-us-responds-to-indias-concerns-of-mistreatment-of-deportees-8897769">&lsquo;No women, children restrained&rsquo;: US responds to India&rsquo;s concerns of mistreatment of deportees</a>
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The United States have responded to concerns regarding the treatment of Indians deported from the US in three military flights last month, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh told Rajya Sabha on Thursday (Mar 27).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stabbing-attack-in-amsterdam-injures-five-say-police-8897773">Stabbing attack in Amsterdam injures five, say police</a>
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A stabbing attack in Amsterdam on Thursday wounded five people, Dutch police said, with one suspect in custody.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-talks-have-mobilised-europe-on-a-scale-not-seen-for-decades-uk-pm-starmer-8897530">'Now not the time' to lift sanctions: Paris summit unanimously agrees to intensify sanctions against Russia</a>
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A summit of European leaders in Paris, on Thursday (Mar 27), unanimously agreed to maintain and intensify sanctions against Russia until Moscow ceases its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-dead-several-injured-after-tourist-submarine-sinks-off-egypts-red-sea-coast-8897480">Six dead, several injured after tourist submarine sinks off Egypt&rsquo;s Red Sea coast</a>
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A tourist submarine carrying dozens of Russian citizens sank off Egypt's Red Sea coast on Thursday (Mar 27), killing six, including two minors, and injuring several others near a major resort town.
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Turkish national Rumeysa Ozturk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, was detained by federal immigration officers near her residence in Somerville, Massachusetts, on Tuesday (Mar 25) evening. The incident has sparked debate after CCTV footage of the incident emerged on social media.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-back-the-money-asap-trump-asks-doge-to-take-back-8000000-given-to-radical-left-politico-magazine-8897647">'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine</a>
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US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 27) once again targeted "Radical left" Politico magazine, asking Elon Musk's DOGE to take back the money given by the government.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-commit-crimes-against-america-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-warns-as-she-visits-trumps-fav-el-salvador-prison-8896947">'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison</a>
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US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited President Donald Trump's high security and his "personal favourite" El Salvador prison where he has kept the Venezuelans, who he alleges are gang members have been held since their removal from the United States.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/l2-empuraan-review-the-mohanlal-prithviraj-combo-is-ultimately-a-letdown-8895705">L2 Empuraan Review: The Mohanlal &amp; Prithviraj combo is ultimately a letdown</a>
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L2: Empuraan is the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer. Like many sequels, it tries to be bigger and better than its predecessor and ultimately ends up being a letdown. In Empuraan's case, it is not its larger scale or acting that really holds it back but an overindulgent screenplay by its writer, Murali Gopy.
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India captain Rohit Sharma, star batter Virat Kohli and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could face demotion from the A+ category to the A category in BCCI&rsquo;s annual central contract list for the upcoming season. Per the latest reports, there would be at least three new entrants to the contract list, including that of an opener, an all-rounder and a seamer.

World | India news | Discover the most compelling global stories today, offering insights into the latest events shaping our world with an engaging and informative approach.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Washington's stance on Russia should be "stronger" as Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the US. In other news, US clarified concerns of New Delhi on the treatment of Indians deported from the US last month. Meanwhile, a stabbing attack in Amsterdam injured five people. Click on the headlines for more 'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington stance on Russia should be stronger Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (March 27) stressed that the US stance on Russia should be "stronger" as Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the US. ‘No women, children restrained’: US responds to India’s concerns of mistreatment of deportees The United States have responded to concerns regarding the treatment of Indians deported from the US in three military flights last month, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh told Rajya Sabha on Thursday (Mar 27). Stabbing attack in Amsterdam injures five, say police A stabbing attack in Amsterdam on Thursday wounded five people, Dutch police said, with one suspect in custody. 'Now not the time' to lift sanctions: Paris summit unanimously agrees to intensify sanctions against Russia A summit of European leaders in Paris, on Thursday (Mar 27), unanimously agreed to maintain and intensify sanctions against Russia until Moscow ceases its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. Six dead, several injured after tourist submarine sinks off Egypt’s Red Sea coast A tourist submarine carrying dozens of Russian citizens sank off Egypt's Red Sea coast on Thursday (Mar 27), killing six, including two minors, and injuring several others near a major resort town. Who is Rumeysa Ozturk? Turkish student detained by federal agents amid Trump crackdown Turkish national Rumeysa Ozturk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, was detained by federal immigration officers near her residence in Somerville, Massachusetts, on Tuesday (Mar 25) evening. The incident has sparked debate after CCTV footage of the incident emerged on social media. 'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 27) once again targeted "Radical left" Politico magazine, asking Elon Musk's DOGE to take back the money given by the government. 'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited President Donald Trump's high security and his "personal favourite" El Salvador prison where he has kept the Venezuelans, who he alleges are gang members have been held since their removal from the United States. L2 Empuraan Review: The Mohanlal & Prithviraj combo is ultimately a letdown L2: Empuraan is the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer. Like many sequels, it tries to be bigger and better than its predecessor and ultimately ends up being a letdown. In Empuraan's case, it is not its larger scale or acting that really holds it back but an overindulgent screenplay by its writer, Murali Gopy. BCCI to take massive call on star Indian trio as annual central contract list announcement looms India captain Rohit Sharma, star batter Virat Kohli and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could face demotion from the A+ category to the A category in BCCI’s annual central contract list for the upcoming season. Per the latest reports, there would be at least three new entrants to the contract list, including that of an opener, an all-rounder and a seamer.

Top 10 world news: 'Putin wants to divide Europe, US'; Washington clarifies India's concerns on deportees, and more

A violent stabbing incident occurred in central Amsterdam on Thursday, leaving four people seriously wounded, according to Dutch police. Authorities have taken a suspect into custody after a bystander intervened and overpowered the attacker.
Initially, police said that five people were injured in the stabbing attack, as the suspect also sustained injuries during the altercation, prior to being apprehended.
Police said that an investigation was underway in full swing, adding that there was no immediate information about the motive behind the stabbing.&nbsp;
"This afternoon, at around 3:50 (1450 GMT), a stabbing took place here in the Saint Nicolaasstraat. Four people were injured here, seriously injured. And a suspect was arrested, who was also injured," a police spokesman told reporters.
In a statement on social media platform X, police said that a bystander overpowered the suspect, who sustained injuries to the leg.
<h2>'Suspect receiving medical care'</h2>
The suspect "is receiving medical care and will be questioned at a later stage", said the police spokesman.&nbsp;
Following the stabbing incident, police cordoned off the area surrounding the scene, located near the iconic Dam Square in central Amsterdam. A trauma helicopter landed in the vicinity, airlifting the victims to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
The injured, according to news agency AFP, were evacuated from the location, but there was a heavy police presence.
Early images released by local news agency ANP showed a person on a stretcher being loaded into the back of an ambulance.
Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema left a meeting in the town hall when news of the attack broke, according to local media reports.
Local media Het Parool, cited a witness, Marco Schoenmaecker, as saying that he saw one of the victims of the attack.
"I saw a knife of at least 10 centimetres (nearly four inches) sticking out of the girl's back, between her shoulders," Het Parool quoted Schoenmaeckers as saying.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Following the stabbing incident, police cordoned off the area surrounding the scene, located near the iconic Dam Square in central Amsterdam. A trauma helicopter landed in the vicinity, airlifting the victims to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

A violent stabbing incident occurred in central Amsterdam on Thursday, leaving four people seriously wounded, according to Dutch police. Authorities have taken a suspect into custody after a bystander intervened and overpowered the attacker. Initially, police said that five people were injured in the stabbing attack, as the suspect also sustained injuries during the altercation, prior to being apprehended. Police said that an investigation was underway in full swing, adding that there was no immediate information about the motive behind the stabbing. "This afternoon, at around 3:50 (1450 GMT), a stabbing took place here in the Saint Nicolaasstraat. Four people were injured here, seriously injured. And a suspect was arrested, who was also injured," a police spokesman told reporters. In a statement on social media platform X, police said that a bystander overpowered the suspect, who sustained injuries to the leg. 'Suspect receiving medical care' The suspect "is receiving medical care and will be questioned at a later stage", said the police spokesman. Following the stabbing incident, police cordoned off the area surrounding the scene, located near the iconic Dam Square in central Amsterdam. A trauma helicopter landed in the vicinity, airlifting the victims to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The injured, according to news agency AFP, were evacuated from the location, but there was a heavy police presence. Early images released by local news agency ANP showed a person on a stretcher being loaded into the back of an ambulance. Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema left a meeting in the town hall when news of the attack broke, according to local media reports. Local media Het Parool, cited a witness, Marco Schoenmaecker, as saying that he saw one of the victims of the attack. "I saw a knife of at least 10 centimetres (nearly four inches) sticking out of the girl's back, between her shoulders," Het Parool quoted Schoenmaeckers as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 4 seriously injured in stabbing near Amsterdam's Dam square, suspect arrested

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (March 27) stressed that the US stance on Russia should be "stronger" as Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the US.&nbsp;
He reiterated that Putin &ldquo;doesn&rsquo;t want&rdquo; peace and wants to divide Europe and America.
&ldquo;His Kremlin machinery has been working it more for more than one year, dividing weakening Europe, dividing the European Union, dividing the United States of America, dividing the United States, states from within, in terms of support for Ukraine or not supporting Ukraine,&rdquo; he said while holding a news conference after a meeting of the "coalition of the willing" on Ukraine, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-talks-have-mobilised-europe-on-a-scale-not-seen-for-decades-uk-pm-starmer-8897530">Ukraine talks have mobilised Europe on a scale 'not seen for decades': UK PM Starmer</a>
He said that it is important that lifting of any sanctions on Russia&rdquo; will not happen until &ldquo;a fair and just peace&rdquo; is agreed.
<h2>Minerals deal 'in flux'</h2>
When asked about the mineral deal between Ukraine and the US, Zelensky said that the terms and conditions are in constant flux, adding that he understands American and Ukrainian teams are working on agreements.
Answering about the prospect of signing a new minerals deal, the Ukrainian president said that the US has changed its approach to the deal, "which was originally meant to be signed as a framework agreement first, followed by a detailed one, but now the US wants to pursue a full agreement."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-issues-invasion-guides-for-citizens-is-it-becaus-of-the-russian-threat-8873094">France issues 'invasion guides' for citizens. Is it because of the Russian threat?</a>
He added that there appears to be a reverse process to the one previously discussed, but says that lawyers at looking at proposals, ready to work through it.
&ldquo;But I wouldn&rsquo;t like to leave the United States with the feeling that Ukraine is against in general; we have shown constantly our [will] and have been sending positive signals,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-macron-and-zelensky-lead-wave-of-new-mobile-phone-diplomacy-8893739">Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy'</a>
<h2>'No plans to visit White House'</h2>
When asked about whether there are any plans of him for US visit, he said there are currently no such plans.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-declares-putin-will-die-soon-as-ukraine-continues-to-endure-russian-attacks-8894822">Zelensky declares Putin 'will die soon' as Ukraine continues to endure Russian attacks</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Zelensky said that the terms and conditions are in constant flux, adding that he understands American and Ukrainian teams are working on agreements.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (March 27) stressed that the US stance on Russia should be "stronger" as Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the US. He reiterated that Putin “doesn’t want” peace and wants to divide Europe and America. “His Kremlin machinery has been working it more for more than one year, dividing weakening Europe, dividing the European Union, dividing the United States of America, dividing the United States, states from within, in terms of support for Ukraine or not supporting Ukraine,” he said while holding a news conference after a meeting of the "coalition of the willing" on Ukraine, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. Also read: Ukraine talks have mobilised Europe on a scale 'not seen for decades': UK PM Starmer He said that it is important that lifting of any sanctions on Russia” will not happen until “a fair and just peace” is agreed. Minerals deal 'in flux' When asked about the mineral deal between Ukraine and the US, Zelensky said that the terms and conditions are in constant flux, adding that he understands American and Ukrainian teams are working on agreements. Answering about the prospect of signing a new minerals deal, the Ukrainian president said that the US has changed its approach to the deal, "which was originally meant to be signed as a framework agreement first, followed by a detailed one, but now the US wants to pursue a full agreement." Also read: France issues 'invasion guides' for citizens. Is it because of the Russian threat? He added that there appears to be a reverse process to the one previously discussed, but says that lawyers at looking at proposals, ready to work through it. “But I wouldn’t like to leave the United States with the feeling that Ukraine is against in general; we have shown constantly our [will] and have been sending positive signals,” he said. Also read: Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy' 'No plans to visit White House' When asked about whether there are any plans of him for US visit, he said there are currently no such plans. Also read: Zelensky declares Putin 'will die soon' as Ukraine continues to endure Russian attacks (With inputs from agencies)

'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 27) once again targeted "Radical left" Politico magazine, asking Elon Musk's DOGE to take back the money given by the government.&nbsp;
Trump slammed the previous government, saying, "Whatever happened to the $8,000,000 given by our &ldquo;government&rdquo; to Radical Left Politico magazine, or whatever you would call it."
"Owned by wealthy guys, this money should be taken back by DOGE, ASAP," he said in a post on Truth Social.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114234742770558412/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>
&nbsp;
Last month also, Trump criticised the established publications, Politico, New York Times, and Reuters, saying that "Radical Left Reuters" was paid "$9,000,000 by the Department of Defense to study &lsquo;large scale social deception."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-on-government-payments-to-politico-8698518">Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats</a>
Further today, Trump also slammed former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams, saying that the "government" funneled into her "environment fund".
"Also, is Stacey Abrams going to give back the Two Billion Dollars they funneled into her &ldquo;environmental fund&rdquo; just prior to my assuming office," he continued.&nbsp;
The US president stressed that Stacey went from "$100 in donations to $2,000,000,000 in just one day? Not bad!!!".&nbsp;
"Get back the money," Trump told DOGE in his post.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-of-its-kind-chatgpt-to-pay-politico-business-insider-for-content-access-to-let-summarise-articles-669577">&lsquo;First of&nbsp;its&nbsp;kind&rsquo;: ChatGPT to pay Politico, Business Insider for content access, summarising articles</a>
Moreover, last month, the US president also reiterated his claim that billions of dollars had been given "to the fake news media" to write favourable stories about Democrats.&nbsp;
However, the website has denied the allegations, calling them "flat-out false". On his official Truth Social account, Trump posted: "LOOKS LIKE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS HAVE BEEN STOLLEN [sic] AT USAID, AND OTHER AGENCIES, MUCH OF IT GOING TO THE FAKE NEWS MEDIA AS A "PAYOFF" FOR CREATING GOOD STORIES ABOUT THE DEMOCRATS." &nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/justin-baldoni-sues-the-new-york-times-for-its-story-supporting-blake-livelys-claim-8582560">Justin Baldoni sues The New York Times for its story supporting Blake Lively's claim</a>
Notably, USAspending.gov, a government website that tracks federal spending, revealed that in 2024, the government agencies paid a total of almost $8 million for Politico subscriptions and products, including $24,000 spent by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) on subscriptions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-to-checkmark-badges-nyt-la-times-politico-and-other-major-news-outlets-reject-twitters-blue-tick-577519">No to checkmark badges: NYT, LA Times, Politico, and other major news outlets reject Twitter's blue tick</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Trump slammed former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams, saying that the "government" funneled into her "environment fund", which should be taken back.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 27) once again targeted "Radical left" Politico magazine, asking Elon Musk's DOGE to take back the money given by the government. Trump slammed the previous government, saying, "Whatever happened to the $8,000,000 given by our “government” to Radical Left Politico magazine, or whatever you would call it." "Owned by wealthy guys, this money should be taken back by DOGE, ASAP," he said in a post on Truth Social. Last month also, Trump criticised the established publications, Politico, New York Times, and Reuters, saying that "Radical Left Reuters" was paid "$9,000,000 by the Department of Defense to study ‘large scale social deception." Also read: Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats Further today, Trump also slammed former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams, saying that the "government" funneled into her "environment fund". "Also, is Stacey Abrams going to give back the Two Billion Dollars they funneled into her “environmental fund” just prior to my assuming office," he continued. The US president stressed that Stacey went from "$100 in donations to $2,000,000,000 in just one day? Not bad!!!". "Get back the money," Trump told DOGE in his post. Also read: ‘First of its kind’: ChatGPT to pay Politico, Business Insider for content access, summarising articles Moreover, last month, the US president also reiterated his claim that billions of dollars had been given "to the fake news media" to write favourable stories about Democrats. However, the website has denied the allegations, calling them "flat-out false". On his official Truth Social account, Trump posted: "LOOKS LIKE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS HAVE BEEN STOLLEN [sic] AT USAID, AND OTHER AGENCIES, MUCH OF IT GOING TO THE FAKE NEWS MEDIA AS A "PAYOFF" FOR CREATING GOOD STORIES ABOUT THE DEMOCRATS." Also read: Justin Baldoni sues The New York Times for its story supporting Blake Lively's claim Notably, USAspending.gov, a government website that tracks federal spending, revealed that in 2024, the government agencies paid a total of almost $8 million for Politico subscriptions and products, including $24,000 spent by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) on subscriptions. Also read: No to checkmark badges: NYT, LA Times, Politico, and other major news outlets reject Twitter's blue tick (With inputs from agencies)

'Get back the money ASAP': Trump asks DOGE to take back $8,000,000 given to 'Radical Left' Politico magazine

A summit of European leaders in Paris, on Thursday (Mar 27), unanimously agreed to maintain and intensify sanctions against Russia until Moscow ceases its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.
"There was complete clarity that now is not the time for the lifting of sanctions, quite the contrary -- what we discussed is how we can increase sanctions to support the US initiative to bring Russia to the table from further pressure," Starmer said alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Ukrainian leader added that "Everybody understood and understands that today Russia does not want any kind of peace."
<h2>Ukraine talks have mobilised Europe on a scale 'not seen for decades': Starmer</h2>
The UK PM then said that the European talks on a potential peace deal in Ukraine have mobilised the continent "on a scale that we haven't seen for decades".
"This is Europe mobilising together behind the peace process on a scale that we haven't seen for decades, backed by partners from around the world," Starmer said after a summit in Paris of over two dozen allies of Ukraine.&nbsp;
<h2>'Grave mistake'</h2>
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, in a separate briefing, said that it would be a "grave mistake" to lift sanctions against Russia and that it "makes no sense" as long as there is no peace.
"It makes no sense to end the sanctions as long as peace has not actually been achieved, and unfortunately, we are still a long way from that," Scholz said.
Zelensky said there should be "no lifting of any kind of sanctions until Russia stops this war" and instead "more pressure on it, more packages of sanctions".
Starmer said that he was "determined" to see "peace through strength" in Ukraine, and that Zelensky has "our full support for as long as it takes".
He further accused Russia of "trying to delay" the search for peace in Ukraine.
As Europe looks to bolster Ukraine after any ceasefire, Starmer said, "We discussed the plans for reassuring the peace -- the coalition of the willing -- and the military and operational plans, whether they are on air, land or sea."
"We will work on security guarantees in the coming days and weeks," Zelensky added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: The UK PM then said that the European talks on a potential peace deal in Ukraine have mobilised the continent "on a scale that we haven't seen for decades".

A summit of European leaders in Paris, on Thursday (Mar 27), unanimously agreed to maintain and intensify sanctions against Russia until Moscow ceases its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. "There was complete clarity that now is not the time for the lifting of sanctions, quite the contrary -- what we discussed is how we can increase sanctions to support the US initiative to bring Russia to the table from further pressure," Starmer said alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian leader added that "Everybody understood and understands that today Russia does not want any kind of peace." Ukraine talks have mobilised Europe on a scale 'not seen for decades': Starmer The UK PM then said that the European talks on a potential peace deal in Ukraine have mobilised the continent "on a scale that we haven't seen for decades". "This is Europe mobilising together behind the peace process on a scale that we haven't seen for decades, backed by partners from around the world," Starmer said after a summit in Paris of over two dozen allies of Ukraine. 'Grave mistake' German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, in a separate briefing, said that it would be a "grave mistake" to lift sanctions against Russia and that it "makes no sense" as long as there is no peace. "It makes no sense to end the sanctions as long as peace has not actually been achieved, and unfortunately, we are still a long way from that," Scholz said. Zelensky said there should be "no lifting of any kind of sanctions until Russia stops this war" and instead "more pressure on it, more packages of sanctions". Starmer said that he was "determined" to see "peace through strength" in Ukraine, and that Zelensky has "our full support for as long as it takes". He further accused Russia of "trying to delay" the search for peace in Ukraine. As Europe looks to bolster Ukraine after any ceasefire, Starmer said, "We discussed the plans for reassuring the peace -- the coalition of the willing -- and the military and operational plans, whether they are on air, land or sea." "We will work on security guarantees in the coming days and weeks," Zelensky added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Now not the time' to lift sanctions: Paris summit unanimously agrees to  intensify sanctions against Russia

A tourist submarine carrying dozens of Russian citizens sank off Egypt's Red Sea coast on Thursday (Mar 27), killing six, including two minors, and injuring several others near a major resort town.
While Egyptian state media reported six deaths, the Russian state agency said five people were confirmed dead, two of them minors, citing General Consul Viktor Voropaev.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egyptians-buried-both-rich-and-poor-in-the-pyramids-of-sudan-8889033">Pyramids of Sudan were built by Egyptians, but are vastly different from the ones in Giza</a>
Russia&rsquo;s consulate in Hurghada earlier said that the vessel, which was on an underwater excursion to see coral reefs, had &ldquo;45 tourists, including minors&rdquo; onboard when it &ldquo;crashed 1 kilometre from the shore&rdquo; around 10 am local time.
&ldquo;According to initial data, most of those on board were rescued and taken to their hotels and hospitals in Hurghada,&rdquo; the consulate said. It added that diplomats had been dispatched to the pier.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-negotiators-hold-hostages-talks-in-egypt-netanyahu-plans-to-dismiss-internal-security-agency-chief-8859748">Israeli negotiators hold hostage talks in Egypt; Netanyahu plans to dismiss Shin Bet chief</a>
The investigation into the incident is underway to determine what caused the accident, Egyptian media reported. The report added that the injured were taken to nearby hospitals along with the bodies of people who died.
According to state-owned Akhbar Al-Youm, 29 people were rescued, of which nine were injured. While Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported that 38 Russians were rescued by emergency crews, 14 of them wounded. It added that &ldquo;five foreigners and one Egyptian&rdquo; died in the incident.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-detect-huge-city-under-the-giza-pyramids-in-egypt-8880016">Scientists detect huge city under Giza pyramids in Egypt. Not possible, experts say</a>
Hurghada, a popular location about 460 kilometres (285 miles) southeast of the Egyptian capital Cairo, is a major destination for international tourists in Egypt.
Russia&rsquo;s consulate in Hurghada, 45 Russians were onboard the submarine &lsquo;Sindbad&rsquo;. According to the website of Sindbad Submarines, the submarine could carry 44 passengers up to a depth of 25 metres. The submarine was sailing off one of the beaches in the tourist location.
In November last year, a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea, drowning at least four people, following warnings of rough waters.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The investigation into the incident is underway to determine what caused the accident, Egyptian media reported. The report added that the injured were taken to nearby hospitals along with the bodies of people who died.

A tourist submarine carrying dozens of Russian citizens sank off Egypt's Red Sea coast on Thursday (Mar 27), killing six, including two minors, and injuring several others near a major resort town. While Egyptian state media reported six deaths, the Russian state agency said five people were confirmed dead, two of them minors, citing General Consul Viktor Voropaev. Also read | Pyramids of Sudan were built by Egyptians, but are vastly different from the ones in Giza Russia’s consulate in Hurghada earlier said that the vessel, which was on an underwater excursion to see coral reefs, had “45 tourists, including minors” onboard when it “crashed 1 kilometre from the shore” around 10 am local time. “According to initial data, most of those on board were rescued and taken to their hotels and hospitals in Hurghada,” the consulate said. It added that diplomats had been dispatched to the pier. Also read | Israeli negotiators hold hostage talks in Egypt; Netanyahu plans to dismiss Shin Bet chief The investigation into the incident is underway to determine what caused the accident, Egyptian media reported. The report added that the injured were taken to nearby hospitals along with the bodies of people who died. According to state-owned Akhbar Al-Youm, 29 people were rescued, of which nine were injured. While Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported that 38 Russians were rescued by emergency crews, 14 of them wounded. It added that “five foreigners and one Egyptian” died in the incident. Also read | Scientists detect huge city under Giza pyramids in Egypt. Not possible, experts say Hurghada, a popular location about 460 kilometres (285 miles) southeast of the Egyptian capital Cairo, is a major destination for international tourists in Egypt. Russia’s consulate in Hurghada, 45 Russians were onboard the submarine ‘Sindbad’. According to the website of Sindbad Submarines, the submarine could carry 44 passengers up to a depth of 25 metres. The submarine was sailing off one of the beaches in the tourist location. In November last year, a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea, drowning at least four people, following warnings of rough waters. (With inputs from agencies)

Six dead, several injured after tourist submarine sinks off Egypt’s Red Sea coast

Turkish national Rumeysa Ozturk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, was detained by federal immigration officers near her residence in Somerville, Massachusetts, on Tuesday (Mar 25) evening. The incident has sparked debate after CCTV footage of the incident emerged on social media.
According to her attorney, Masha Khanbabai, she was on her way to meet friends for an Iftar dinner, where they would break their Ramadan fast, but never made it there, reported CNN. Her arrest has raised concerns among legal experts, civil rights advocates and university officials.
The surveillance footage of her arrest showed six plainclothes agents, with their faces covered, from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) surrounding her while she was walking alone. Khanbabai said that Ozturk was physically restrained, handcuffed and taken into custody, without any explanation, despite she was in possession of a valid student visa.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-halts-us-effort-to-detain-columbia-student-over-protests-8891408">Court halts US effort to detain Columbia student over protests</a>
<h2>Who is Rumeysa Ozturk?</h2>
Ozturk&rsquo;s arrest comes amid the Trump administration&rsquo;s immigration crackdown. In recent months, several foreign nationals have been detained by US authorities, particularly international students with affiliations to pro-Palestinian activism.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Massive rally underway in Somerville after ICE took a Tufts University student into custody. A DHS spokesperson says Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish national, &ldquo;engaged in activities in support of Hamas.&rdquo; Her supporters say she was detained because of her pro-Palestinian views. <a href="https://t.co/ZWG4kkA0Jh">pic.twitter.com/ZWG4kkA0Jh</a>
&mdash; Rob Way (@RobWayTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobWayTV/status/1905015317417676909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to Khanbabai, Ozturk was enrolled in a PhD program at Tufts University with a valid F-1 visa, which allows foreign students to pursue academics in the US.
Ozturk was detained as she &ldquo;engaged in activities in support of Hamas&rdquo;, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said in a statement Wednesday (Mar 26), without specifying the activities. Her visa has been revoked, while her attorney told CNN that no formal charges have been filed against her.
Also read | <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>
Reportedly, Ozturk cowrote an op-ed in the school&rsquo;s newspaper, which criticised Tufts&rsquo; stance on the pro-Palestinian movement, last year in March.
<h2>&lsquo;This isn&rsquo;t public safety&rsquo;</h2>
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell called the footage of her detention &ldquo;disturbing.&rdquo;
Campbell added, &ldquo;Based on what we now know, it is alarming that the federal administration chose to ambush and detain her, apparently targeting a law-abiding individual because of her political views. This isn&rsquo;t public safety, it&rsquo;s intimidation that will, and should, be closely scrutinised in court.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NEW: I&rsquo;ve obtained new footage of the abduction of Tufts student Runeysa Ozturk which includes audio of her kidnappers. <a href="https://t.co/gucwFxdnOi">pic.twitter.com/gucwFxdnOi</a>
&mdash; Daniel Boguslaw (@DRBoguslaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRBoguslaw/status/1904933137328570859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A petition has been filed in the Federal District Court in Massachusetts by her legal team on Tuesday (Mar 25), challenging the legality of her arrest. Judge Indira Talwani issued an order preventing her transfer out of the state without prior written notice.
However, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) records reveal that she had been moved to the Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile, Louisiana. It is unclear whether she was relocated before the court order took effect.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/getting-a-us-student-visa-just-got-harder-f-1-rejections-hit-10-year-high-with-40-of-applicants-denied-8885707">Getting a US student visa just got harder: F-1 rejections hit 10-year high with 40% of applicants denied</a>
&ldquo;Like all the other immigration cases related to international students and activists who have spoken up about the atrocities in Palestine, the government throws around wild accusations but provides no evidence,&rdquo; said Khanbabai. &ldquo;We hope Rumeysa will be released immediately.&rdquo;
<h2>Tufts University reacts</h2>
Responding to Ozturk&rsquo;s arrest, Tufts University President Sunil Kumar said in a statement, &ldquo;We did not share any information with federal authorities prior to the event, and the location where this took place is not affiliated with Tufts University.&rdquo;&nbsp;
He added, &ldquo;From what we have been told subsequently, the student&rsquo;s visa status has been terminated, and we seek to confirm whether that information is true.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-immigration-crackdown-india-advises-students-to-seek-help-abide-by-laws-8878767">US immigration crackdown: India advises students to seek help, abide by laws</a>
&ldquo;We recognize how frightening and distressing this situation is for her, her loved ones, and the larger community here at Tufts, especially our international students, staff, and faculty who may be feeling vulnerable or unsettled by these events,&rdquo; Kumar added.
Earlier this month, Columbia University graduate and activist Mahmoud Khalil was taken into custody. Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian doctoral student at the University of Alabama, was also arrested by US officials.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | According to her attorney, Masha Khanbabai, she was on her way to meet friends for an Iftar dinner, where they would break their Ramadan fast, but never made it there.

Turkish national Rumeysa Ozturk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, was detained by federal immigration officers near her residence in Somerville, Massachusetts, on Tuesday (Mar 25) evening. The incident has sparked debate after CCTV footage of the incident emerged on social media. According to her attorney, Masha Khanbabai, she was on her way to meet friends for an Iftar dinner, where they would break their Ramadan fast, but never made it there, reported CNN. Her arrest has raised concerns among legal experts, civil rights advocates and university officials. The surveillance footage of her arrest showed six plainclothes agents, with their faces covered, from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) surrounding her while she was walking alone. Khanbabai said that Ozturk was physically restrained, handcuffed and taken into custody, without any explanation, despite she was in possession of a valid student visa. Also read | Court halts US effort to detain Columbia student over protests Who is Rumeysa Ozturk? Ozturk’s arrest comes amid the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. In recent months, several foreign nationals have been detained by US authorities, particularly international students with affiliations to pro-Palestinian activism. Massive rally underway in Somerville after ICE took a Tufts University student into custody. A DHS spokesperson says Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish national, “engaged in activities in support of Hamas.” Her supporters say she was detained because of her pro-Palestinian views. pic.twitter.com/ZWG4kkA0Jh — Rob Way (@RobWayTV) March 26, 2025 According to Khanbabai, Ozturk was enrolled in a PhD program at Tufts University with a valid F-1 visa, which allows foreign students to pursue academics in the US. Ozturk was detained as she “engaged in activities in support of Hamas”, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said in a statement Wednesday (Mar 26), without specifying the activities. Her visa has been revoked, while her attorney told CNN that no formal charges have been filed against her. Also read | Columbia University student, permanent US resident, sues Trump administration for trying to deport her Reportedly, Ozturk cowrote an op-ed in the school’s newspaper, which criticised Tufts’ stance on the pro-Palestinian movement, last year in March. ‘This isn’t public safety’ Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell called the footage of her detention “disturbing.” Campbell added, “Based on what we now know, it is alarming that the federal administration chose to ambush and detain her, apparently targeting a law-abiding individual because of her political views. This isn’t public safety, it’s intimidation that will, and should, be closely scrutinised in court.” NEW: I’ve obtained new footage of the abduction of Tufts student Runeysa Ozturk which includes audio of her kidnappers. pic.twitter.com/gucwFxdnOi — Daniel Boguslaw (@DRBoguslaw) March 26, 2025 A petition has been filed in the Federal District Court in Massachusetts by her legal team on Tuesday (Mar 25), challenging the legality of her arrest. Judge Indira Talwani issued an order preventing her transfer out of the state without prior written notice. However, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) records reveal that she had been moved to the Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile, Louisiana. It is unclear whether she was relocated before the court order took effect. Also read | Getting a US student visa just got harder: F-1 rejections hit 10-year high with 40% of applicants denied “Like all the other immigration cases related to international students and activists who have spoken up about the atrocities in Palestine, the government throws around wild accusations but provides no evidence,” said Khanbabai. “We hope Rumeysa will be released immediately.” Tufts University reacts Responding to Ozturk’s arrest, Tufts University President Sunil Kumar said in a statement, “We did not share any information with federal authorities prior to the event, and the location where this took place is not affiliated with Tufts University.” He added, “From what we have been told subsequently, the student’s visa status has been terminated, and we seek to confirm whether that information is true.” Also read | US immigration crackdown: India advises students to seek help, abide by laws “We recognize how frightening and distressing this situation is for her, her loved ones, and the larger community here at Tufts, especially our international students, staff, and faculty who may be feeling vulnerable or unsettled by these events,” Kumar added. Earlier this month, Columbia University graduate and activist Mahmoud Khalil was taken into custody. Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian doctoral student at the University of Alabama, was also arrested by US officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Rumeysa Ozturk? Turkish student detained by federal agents amid Trump crackdown

US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited President Donald Trump's high security and his "personal favourite" El Salvador prison where he has kept the Venezuelans, who he alleges are gang members have been held since their removal from the United States.
Her tour included two crowded cell blocks, the armory, and an isolation unit.&nbsp;
Noem's visit comes as the Trump administration has been cracking down on mass deportation and deporting alleged Venezuelan gang members prison which they describe as the "worst of the worst".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-get-jailed-in-el-salvador-prisons-trump-threatens-terrorists-harming-musk-tesla-with-20-year-jail-term-8877058">&lsquo;Could get jailed in El Salvador prisons&rsquo;: Trump threatens &lsquo;terrorists&rsquo; harming Musk, Tesla with 20-year&nbsp;jail</a>
At the prison, Noem toured an area holding some of the Venezuelans accused of being gang members.&nbsp;
In the sweltering building of El Salvador, the prisoners were in white T-shirts, and shorts, silently staring from their cell without making a sound.&nbsp;
About a dozen prisoners were lined up by guards near the front of their cell and told to remove their T-shirts and face masks. Those men were heavily tattooed, while some bearing the letters MS, for the Mara Salvatrucha gang, on their chests.
After listening to Salvadoran officials, Noem turned her back to the call and recorded a video message.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heads-shaved-stripped-down-how-horribly-inmates-are-treated-in-el-salvadors-mega-prison-8878032">&lsquo;Heads shaved, stripped down...&rsquo;: How horribly inmates are treated in El Salvador&rsquo;s mega prison</a>
"This is one of the consequences you could face,&rdquo; Noem said. &ldquo;First of all, do not come to our country illegally. You will be removed and you will be prosecuted. But know that this facility is one of the tools in our toolkit that we will use if you commit crimes against the American people.&rdquo;
As Noem exited the building, the men were heard shouting an indiscernible chant.&nbsp;
Earlier on Wednesday, Homeland Security posted on X, indicating that it would continue working with El Salvador, saying that Noem was slated to discuss how the US can &ldquo;increase the number of deportation flights and removals of violent criminals from the US&rdquo; during her visit with President Nayib Bukele.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-el-salvador-agree-on-preliminary-accord-to-strengthen-economic-stability-fiscal-health-747897">IMF, El Salvador agree on preliminary accord to strengthen economic stability, fiscal health</a>
Noem's visit is part of a three-day trip. She will also travel to Colombia and Mexico.&nbsp;
Earlier this month, Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 and removed Venezuelans from the US, saying that the country was being invaded by the Tren de Aragua gang.
The Alien Enemies Act gives the president wartime powers and allows noncitizens to be deported without the opportunity to go before an immigration or federal court judge.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-salvadors-nayib-bukele-mega-prison-americas-worst-criminals-illegal-immigrants-us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-us-president-donald-trump-8690813">El Salvador's &lsquo;mega-prison&rsquo; to take in America&rsquo;s worst criminals, illegal immigrants but 'for a price'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Noem's visit comes as the Trump administration has deported alleged Venezuelan gang members prison which they describe as the "worst of the worst".

US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited President Donald Trump's high security and his "personal favourite" El Salvador prison where he has kept the Venezuelans, who he alleges are gang members have been held since their removal from the United States. Her tour included two crowded cell blocks, the armory, and an isolation unit. Noem's visit comes as the Trump administration has been cracking down on mass deportation and deporting alleged Venezuelan gang members prison which they describe as the "worst of the worst". Also read: ‘Could get jailed in El Salvador prisons’: Trump threatens ‘terrorists’ harming Musk, Tesla with 20-year jail At the prison, Noem toured an area holding some of the Venezuelans accused of being gang members. In the sweltering building of El Salvador, the prisoners were in white T-shirts, and shorts, silently staring from their cell without making a sound. About a dozen prisoners were lined up by guards near the front of their cell and told to remove their T-shirts and face masks. Those men were heavily tattooed, while some bearing the letters MS, for the Mara Salvatrucha gang, on their chests. After listening to Salvadoran officials, Noem turned her back to the call and recorded a video message. Also read: ‘Heads shaved, stripped down...’: How horribly inmates are treated in El Salvador’s mega prison "This is one of the consequences you could face,” Noem said. “First of all, do not come to our country illegally. You will be removed and you will be prosecuted. But know that this facility is one of the tools in our toolkit that we will use if you commit crimes against the American people.” As Noem exited the building, the men were heard shouting an indiscernible chant. Earlier on Wednesday, Homeland Security posted on X, indicating that it would continue working with El Salvador, saying that Noem was slated to discuss how the US can “increase the number of deportation flights and removals of violent criminals from the US” during her visit with President Nayib Bukele. Also read: IMF, El Salvador agree on preliminary accord to strengthen economic stability, fiscal health Noem's visit is part of a three-day trip. She will also travel to Colombia and Mexico. Earlier this month, Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 and removed Venezuelans from the US, saying that the country was being invaded by the Tren de Aragua gang. The Alien Enemies Act gives the president wartime powers and allows noncitizens to be deported without the opportunity to go before an immigration or federal court judge. Also read: El Salvador's ‘mega-prison’ to take in America’s worst criminals, illegal immigrants but 'for a price' (With inputs from agencies)

'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison

A Russian state TV journalist was killed and her cameraman severely injured when a landmine exploded in Russia's Belgorod region, near the border with Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported, citing Russian state media.
Anna Prokofieva and cameraman Dmitry Volkov accidentally ran over a landmine that was planted by the Ukrainian army, the Pervy Kanal TV channel said.
"Channel One war correspondent Anna Prokofieva died while performing her professional duty," the TV channel wrote in a statement. "Channel One's film crew struck an enemy mine."
<h2>Who was Anna Prokofieva?</h2>
Prokofieva, 35, was covering the Ukraine war since the year 2023 for Channel One, according to a report by Moscow Times. &nbsp;
The last post that she shared on her Telegram handle, showed Prokofieva donning military fatigues and a head-mounted camera as she sat somewhere in a forest.
She captioned the post, sharing a smiling photo of herself saying, "Somewhere on the border with country 404". The phrase is a derogatory reference to Ukraine, often used by pro-Kremlin military bloggers, likening the country to a non-existent webpage, symbolized by the '404 file not found' error.
Several Russian journalists lost their lives in the ongoing three-year conflict. The latest casualty was a war correspondent for Izvestia, a prominent pro-Kremlin newspaper, who was killed in Ukraine's Kharkiv region on Monday.
At least 21 journalists have died since the beginning of Russia's military offensive in February 2022, according to the International Federation of Journalists.
Russia's Belgorod region, located in the south near the Ukrainian border, has faced repeated attacks from Ukraine, including drone strikes and artillery shelling. Unconfirmed reports also suggest ground clashes in the area, coinciding with Ukraine's withdrawal from the neighbouring Kursk region in Russia.
Earlier this week, an artillery strike killed six people, including two Russian journalists and their driver, who were reporting from Moscow-controlled areas in eastern Ukraine's Luhansk region, news agency Reuters reported, citing Russian media.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Several Russian journalists lost their lives in the ongoing three-year conflict. The latest casualty was a war correspondent for Izvestia, a prominent pro-Kremlin newspaper, who was killed in Ukraine's Kharkiv region on Monday.

A Russian state TV journalist was killed and her cameraman severely injured when a landmine exploded in Russia's Belgorod region, near the border with Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported, citing Russian state media. Anna Prokofieva and cameraman Dmitry Volkov accidentally ran over a landmine that was planted by the Ukrainian army, the Pervy Kanal TV channel said. "Channel One war correspondent Anna Prokofieva died while performing her professional duty," the TV channel wrote in a statement. "Channel One's film crew struck an enemy mine." Who was Anna Prokofieva? Prokofieva, 35, was covering the Ukraine war since the year 2023 for Channel One, according to a report by Moscow Times. The last post that she shared on her Telegram handle, showed Prokofieva donning military fatigues and a head-mounted camera as she sat somewhere in a forest. She captioned the post, sharing a smiling photo of herself saying, "Somewhere on the border with country 404". The phrase is a derogatory reference to Ukraine, often used by pro-Kremlin military bloggers, likening the country to a non-existent webpage, symbolized by the '404 file not found' error. Several Russian journalists lost their lives in the ongoing three-year conflict. The latest casualty was a war correspondent for Izvestia, a prominent pro-Kremlin newspaper, who was killed in Ukraine's Kharkiv region on Monday. At least 21 journalists have died since the beginning of Russia's military offensive in February 2022, according to the International Federation of Journalists. Russia's Belgorod region, located in the south near the Ukrainian border, has faced repeated attacks from Ukraine, including drone strikes and artillery shelling. Unconfirmed reports also suggest ground clashes in the area, coinciding with Ukraine's withdrawal from the neighbouring Kursk region in Russia. Earlier this week, an artillery strike killed six people, including two Russian journalists and their driver, who were reporting from Moscow-controlled areas in eastern Ukraine's Luhansk region, news agency Reuters reported, citing Russian media. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Anna Prokofieva? Russian journalist killed in landmine blast near Ukraine border

The US Embassy in India cancelled about 2,000 visa appointments, which that claim was confirmed by violating policies. They aimed at 'bad actors' tampering with their scheduling policies. The office assured that the matter is under control, as they have identified those responsible for the action.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/h1b-visas-us-far-right-goes-on-anti-india-drivel-over-trumps-pick-sriram-musk-wades-in-8566899">H1B visas: US far-right goes on anti-India drivel over Trump's pick Sriram;&nbsp;Musk&nbsp;wades&nbsp;in</a>
In a statement posted on X, the US Embassy India wrote, "Consular Team India is canceling about 2,000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers who violate our scheduling policies."
It further emphasised, "Consular Team India identified bad actors who made about 2,000 visa appointments that violated our scheduling policies. Effective immediately, we are cancelling these appointments and suspending the associated accounts' scheduling privileges. We will continue our anti-fraud efforts. We have zero tolerance for fraud."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8rard1r-iwr1sgjo-1x91tucd">
Consular Team India is canceling about 2000 visa appointments made by bots.&nbsp; We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies. <a href="https://t.co/ypakf99eCo">pic.twitter.com/ypakf99eCo</a>
&mdash; U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia/status/1904843783201583522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Vigilant netizens suggested corrective measures to avoid such episodes in the future. Gumireddy Srikanth wrote, "Much needed and can you put advisory on certain websites which are publicly providing slot booking service for money."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poll-reveals-donald-trump-is-not-the-most-popular-us-politician-but-this-senator-is-8896780">Donald Trump is not the most popular US politician, but THIS senator is, poll reveals</a>
People have suffered heavily due to the long wait for US visa, delays in appointment confirmation have now been accepted as a norm. Many are even prepared to wait for months. Be it tourism, business or even student visas, people have begun factoring in even the wait period. People have begun considering neighbouring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Kuwait, as their wait for an international US visa application is less than a week. While Bangkok, Thailand, has a 25-day wait, still much less than that in India, where it exceeds 400 days, which is good over a year.

US Embassy in India cancelled about 2,000 visa appointments, which that claim was confirmed by violating policies. They aimed at 'bad actors' tampering with their scheduling policies. World

The US Embassy in India cancelled about 2,000 visa appointments, which that claim was confirmed by violating policies. They aimed at 'bad actors' tampering with their scheduling policies. The office assured that the matter is under control, as they have identified those responsible for the action. Also read: H1B visas: US far-right goes on anti-India drivel over Trump's pick Sriram; Musk wades in In a statement posted on X, the US Embassy India wrote, "Consular Team India is canceling about 2,000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers who violate our scheduling policies." It further emphasised, "Consular Team India identified bad actors who made about 2,000 visa appointments that violated our scheduling policies. Effective immediately, we are cancelling these appointments and suspending the associated accounts' scheduling privileges. We will continue our anti-fraud efforts. We have zero tolerance for fraud." Consular Team India is canceling about 2000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies. pic.twitter.com/ypakf99eCo — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) March 26, 2025 Vigilant netizens suggested corrective measures to avoid such episodes in the future. Gumireddy Srikanth wrote, "Much needed and can you put advisory on certain websites which are publicly providing slot booking service for money." Also read: Donald Trump is not the most popular US politician, but THIS senator is, poll reveals People have suffered heavily due to the long wait for US visa, delays in appointment confirmation have now been accepted as a norm. Many are even prepared to wait for months. Be it tourism, business or even student visas, people have begun factoring in even the wait period. People have begun considering neighbouring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Kuwait, as their wait for an international US visa application is less than a week. While Bangkok, Thailand, has a 25-day wait, still much less than that in India, where it exceeds 400 days, which is good over a year.

Confirmed by 'bots': US Embassy in India cancels 2,000 visa appointments

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