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An Israeli airstrike hit Gaza's Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis on Sunday (Mar 23) killing a member of Hamas's political bureau as he underwent treatment in the hospital, news agency AFP reported citing a source in the Islamist movement said. Meanwhile, Reuters claimed that at least five were killed and several others were injured as the Israel military continued its ground operations in the war-ravaged Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-cabinet-turns-on-attorney-general-in-no-confidence-vote-amid-political-turmoil-8883456">Israel&rsquo;s cabinet turns on attorney general in no-confidence vote amid political turmoil</a>
The death toll from nearly 18 months of war is more than 50,000, according to the Hamas health ministry. Gazans surveyed the destruction after an Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in Khan Younis on Sunday.&nbsp;
"The Israeli army assassinated Hamas political bureau member Ismail Barhoum," the Hamas source said, requesting anonymity to speak more freely.&nbsp;
Barhoum is the fourth member of Hamas's political bureau killed since last Tuesday when Israel resumed air strikes in the territory, shattering a ceasefire.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-special-envoy-witkoff-says-hamas-duped-him-as-he-blames-renewed-attack-in-gaza-on-militant-group-8883301">US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas &lsquo;duped&rsquo; him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group</a>
"Warplanes bombed the operating room at Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, where Barhoum was receiving treatment after sustaining critical injuries in an air strike targeting his home in Khan Yunis at dawn last Tuesday."
Images and videos shared by news agencies showed the building of about four storeys largely undamaged except for fire blazing in one section off a stairwell.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-gaza-war-reaches-over-50000-says-health-ministry-8883109">Death toll in Gaza war reaches over 50,000, says health ministry</a>
<h2>'Terrorist organisation operating inside Nasser Hospital compound'&nbsp;</h2>
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed in a statement that Barhoum had been targeted in the strike. The ministry said it hit the hospital with "precise munitions" after it revived intelligence inputs. &nbsp;
It said the target was a key member of "the Hamas terrorist organisation who was operating inside the Nasser Hospital compound."
The Ministry of Health in Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli forces "have just targeted the surgery building inside the Nasser Medical Complex, which houses many patients and wounded individuals, and a large fire has erupted at the site."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-senior-political-official-his-wife-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-overnight-8882686">Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight</a>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Israel said that the target was a key member of 'the Hamas terrorist organisation who was operating inside the Nasser Hospital compound'

An Israeli airstrike hit Gaza's Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis on Sunday (Mar 23) killing a member of Hamas's political bureau as he underwent treatment in the hospital, news agency AFP reported citing a source in the Islamist movement said. Meanwhile, Reuters claimed that at least five were killed and several others were injured as the Israel military continued its ground operations in the war-ravaged Gaza Strip. Also read: Israel’s cabinet turns on attorney general in no-confidence vote amid political turmoil The death toll from nearly 18 months of war is more than 50,000, according to the Hamas health ministry. Gazans surveyed the destruction after an Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in Khan Younis on Sunday. "The Israeli army assassinated Hamas political bureau member Ismail Barhoum," the Hamas source said, requesting anonymity to speak more freely. Barhoum is the fourth member of Hamas's political bureau killed since last Tuesday when Israel resumed air strikes in the territory, shattering a ceasefire. Also read: US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group "Warplanes bombed the operating room at Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, where Barhoum was receiving treatment after sustaining critical injuries in an air strike targeting his home in Khan Yunis at dawn last Tuesday." Images and videos shared by news agencies showed the building of about four storeys largely undamaged except for fire blazing in one section off a stairwell. Also read: Death toll in Gaza war reaches over 50,000, says health ministry 'Terrorist organisation operating inside Nasser Hospital compound' Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed in a statement that Barhoum had been targeted in the strike. The ministry said it hit the hospital with "precise munitions" after it revived intelligence inputs. It said the target was a key member of "the Hamas terrorist organisation who was operating inside the Nasser Hospital compound." The Ministry of Health in Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli forces "have just targeted the surgery building inside the Nasser Medical Complex, which houses many patients and wounded individuals, and a large fire has erupted at the site." Also read: Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight (With inputs from agencies)

Israel kills top Hamas official Ismail Barhoum in targeted airstrike at Gaza's Nasser hospital

Ukraine and the US officials started talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday (Mar 23) on a partial ceasefire in the war with Russia as Washington hopes for &ldquo;real progress&rdquo; but the Kremlin warns of &ldquo;difficult negotiations&rdquo;.
US officials will hold separate technical-level discussions with Russian officials on Monday (Mar 24) in Riyadh, which could pave the way to a breakthrough to end the three-year war.
Despite the different proposals for a temporary ceasefire, the fighting has continued. A recent Russian strike on the Ukrainian capital killed three civilians while Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia resulted in two deaths, according to officials.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starmer-faced-pressure-from-us-to-slam-zelensky-after-oval-office-clash-with-trump-report-8883070">Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report</a>
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that talks with US officials got underway in Riyadh on Sunday evening.
&ldquo;The agenda includes proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure,&rdquo; he said on Facebook, adding the teams were &ldquo;working through a number of complex technical issues.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
<h2>US envoy hopeful on talks</h2>
US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism ahead of the talks.
&ldquo;I feel that (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants peace,&rdquo; he told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23).&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think that you&rsquo;re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress, particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries. And from that, you&rsquo;ll naturally gravitate into a full-on shooting ceasefire,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
<h2>Kremlin says talks only at beginning</h2>
However, Kremlin downplayed expectations, saying that talks were just beginning.
&ldquo;We are only at the beginning of this path,&rdquo; Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian state TV. He added that there were many outstanding &ldquo;questions&rdquo; and &ldquo;nuances&rdquo; over how a potential ceasefire might take place.
&ldquo;There are difficult negotiations ahead,&rdquo; Peskov said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
While the US and Ukraine called for a full and immediate 30-day pause, Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected the proposal, insisting on a halt in attacks only on energy facilities.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a>: Russia intensifies strikes on Ukraine in a 'revenge' assault Meanwhile, Ukraine and US teams begin talks in Saudi Arabia, with the US envoy hopeful for a swift end to the war<a href="https://twitter.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> brings you this report <a href="https://t.co/QWevtLyITv">pic.twitter.com/QWevtLyITv</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1903864558466310185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

(With inputs from agencies)

World | US officials will hold separate technical-level discussions with Russian officials on Monday (Mar 24) in Riyadh, which could pave the way to a breakthrough to end the three-year war.

Ukraine and the US officials started talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday (Mar 23) on a partial ceasefire in the war with Russia as Washington hopes for “real progress” but the Kremlin warns of “difficult negotiations”. US officials will hold separate technical-level discussions with Russian officials on Monday (Mar 24) in Riyadh, which could pave the way to a breakthrough to end the three-year war. Despite the different proposals for a temporary ceasefire, the fighting has continued. A recent Russian strike on the Ukrainian capital killed three civilians while Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia resulted in two deaths, according to officials. Also read | Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that talks with US officials got underway in Riyadh on Sunday evening. “The agenda includes proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure,” he said on Facebook, adding the teams were “working through a number of complex technical issues.” Also read | ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia US envoy hopeful on talks US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism ahead of the talks. “I feel that (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants peace,” he told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23). “I think that you’re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress, particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries. And from that, you’ll naturally gravitate into a full-on shooting ceasefire,” he said. Also read | ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting Kremlin says talks only at beginning However, Kremlin downplayed expectations, saying that talks were just beginning. “We are only at the beginning of this path,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian state TV. He added that there were many outstanding “questions” and “nuances” over how a potential ceasefire might take place. “There are difficult negotiations ahead,” Peskov said. Also read | Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff While the US and Ukraine called for a full and immediate 30-day pause, Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected the proposal, insisting on a halt in attacks only on energy facilities. #RussiaUkraineWar: Russia intensifies strikes on Ukraine in a 'revenge' assault Meanwhile, Ukraine and US teams begin talks in Saudi Arabia, with the US envoy hopeful for a swift end to the war@eriknjoka brings you this report pic.twitter.com/QWevtLyITv — WION (@WIONews) March 23, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

US-Ukraine hold talks in Riyadh as US envoy expresses optimism on ending war before Russia meeting

Israel's cabinet passed a vote of no confidence on Sunday in the attorney general, the justice minister said, moving against a vocal critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The decision came two days after the government fired the head of the country's internal security agency, a decision subsequently frozen by Israel's Supreme Court and which triggered anti-government demonstrations.
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: The decision came two days after the government fired the head of the country's internal security agency, a decision subsequently frozen by Israel's Supreme Court.

Israel's cabinet passed a vote of no confidence on Sunday in the attorney general, the justice minister said, moving against a vocal critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision came two days after the government fired the head of the country's internal security agency, a decision subsequently frozen by Israel's Supreme Court and which triggered anti-government demonstrations. 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.

Israel’s cabinet turns on attorney general in no-confidence vote amid political turmoil

Canada&rsquo;s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has announced a snap election set for 28 April, just nine days after taking office. The move comes in response to mounting threats from US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a>, including a proposed trade war and suggestions that Canada should become America&rsquo;s 51st state.
<h2>'President Trump claims that Canada isn't a real country'</h2>
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday (March 23), Carney accused Trump of attempting to undermine Canadian sovereignty.
&ldquo;President Trump claims that Canada isn't a real country. He wants to break us so America can own us. We will not let that happen,&rdquo; Carney said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-new-pm-mark-carney-calls-snap-election-on-april-28-amid-donald-trump-tariff-threat-8883347">Canada&rsquo;s new PM Mark Carney calls April 28 snap election, says &lsquo;We needed to act because of Trump&rsquo;s tariffs&rsquo;</a>
He added, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re over the shock of the betrayal, but we can never forget the lessons. We have to look out for ourselves. We have to look out for each other.&rdquo;
Carney said the decision to call an early election was driven by urgency in the face of US pressure.
&ldquo;We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump's unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;There is so much more to do to secure Canada. To invest in Canada, to build Canada, to unite Canada,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-never-be-part-of-us-new-canadian-pm-mark-carney-calls-51st-state-idea-crazy-in-first-speech-8854353">&lsquo;We will never be part of US&rsquo;: New Canadian PM Mark Carney calls &lsquo;51st state&rsquo; idea &lsquo;crazy&rsquo; in first speech</a>
During the press conference, Carney was asked about his approach to dealing with Trump and US-Canada relations. He responded that he is &ldquo;fully able to stand up&rdquo; to the American president.
However, Carney added that there are clear conditions for engaging in dialogue with Trump. &ldquo;He has to say it and accept it,&rdquo; referring to Canada&rsquo;s status as a sovereign nation. Only then, Carney said, could discussions on a new trade agreement move forward. As of now, the two leaders have not spoken since Carney was sworn in.
Trump has repeatedly targeted Canada in recent statements. In a Fox News interview, he claimed, &ldquo;Canada was meant to be the 51st state because we subsidise Canada by $200 billion a year.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mark-carney-canadas-new-pm-tasked-with-handling-the-crisis-called-trump-8854192">Who is Mark Carney? Canada&rsquo;s new PM tasked with handling the 'crisis'&nbsp;called&nbsp;Trump</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “President Trump claims that Canada isn't a real country. He wants to break us so America can own us. We will not let that happen,” Carney said.

Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has announced a snap election set for 28 April, just nine days after taking office. The move comes in response to mounting threats from US President Donald Trump, including a proposed trade war and suggestions that Canada should become America’s 51st state. 'President Trump claims that Canada isn't a real country' Speaking at a press conference on Sunday (March 23), Carney accused Trump of attempting to undermine Canadian sovereignty. “President Trump claims that Canada isn't a real country. He wants to break us so America can own us. We will not let that happen,” Carney said. Also read: Canada’s new PM Mark Carney calls April 28 snap election, says ‘We needed to act because of Trump’s tariffs’ He added, “We’re over the shock of the betrayal, but we can never forget the lessons. We have to look out for ourselves. We have to look out for each other.” Carney said the decision to call an early election was driven by urgency in the face of US pressure. “We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump's unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,” he said. “There is so much more to do to secure Canada. To invest in Canada, to build Canada, to unite Canada,” he added. Also read: ‘We will never be part of US’: New Canadian PM Mark Carney calls ‘51st state’ idea ‘crazy’ in first speech During the press conference, Carney was asked about his approach to dealing with Trump and US-Canada relations. He responded that he is “fully able to stand up” to the American president. However, Carney added that there are clear conditions for engaging in dialogue with Trump. “He has to say it and accept it,” referring to Canada’s status as a sovereign nation. Only then, Carney said, could discussions on a new trade agreement move forward. As of now, the two leaders have not spoken since Carney was sworn in. Trump has repeatedly targeted Canada in recent statements. In a Fox News interview, he claimed, “Canada was meant to be the 51st state because we subsidise Canada by $200 billion a year.” Also read: Who is Mark Carney? Canada’s new PM tasked with handling the 'crisis' called Trump (With inputs from agencies)

'So America can own us': Canadian PM Carney accuses Trump of trying to 'break Canada'

Canada&rsquo;s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has called a snap general election for 28 April just nine days after taking office. The move comes as Canada faces growing tensions with US President Donald Trump over trade and sovereignty.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve just requested that the Governor General dissolve Parliament and call an election for April 28. She has agreed,&rdquo; Carney announced on Sunday, referring to Mary Simon, the representative of King Charles III in Canada.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mark-carney-canadas-new-pm-tasked-with-handling-the-crisis-called-trump-8854192">Who is Mark Carney? Canada&rsquo;s new PM tasked with handling the 'crisis'&nbsp;called&nbsp;Trump</a>
<h2>Carney responds to Trump&rsquo;s pressure</h2>
Explaining the sudden decision, Carney pointed to what he described as an urgent national crisis driven by President Trump&rsquo;s actions.
&ldquo;We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump&rsquo;s unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,&rdquo; Carney said.
&ldquo;There is so much more to do to secure Canada. To invest in Canada, to build Canada, to unite Canada,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-never-be-part-of-us-new-canadian-pm-mark-carney-calls-51st-state-idea-crazy-in-first-speech-8854353">&lsquo;We will never be part of US&rsquo;: New Canadian PM Mark Carney calls &lsquo;51st state&rsquo; idea &lsquo;crazy&rsquo; in first speech</a>
Carney has accused the US president of destabilising Canada through punitive economic measures, including the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium, and threats of further tariffs on all Canadian goods from 2 April.
&ldquo;We needed to act because of Donald Trump&rsquo;s tariffs,&rdquo; Carney said.&nbsp;
The snap election follows Carney&rsquo;s recent selection as Liberal Party leader, replacing Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation in January but remained in office until a new leader was chosen earlier this month.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-european-nations-canada-warns-citizens-travelling-to-us-amid-trumps-immigration-crackdown-8883018">After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown</a>
The opposition Conservatives had initially hoped to centre the election around Trudeau&rsquo;s declining popularity due to inflation and immigration concerns. However, the upcoming vote is now expected to focus on who is best positioned to handle the challenges posed by Trump&rsquo;s presidency.
Carney&rsquo;s tried to tap into the growing wave of nationalism across Canada, driven by President Trump&rsquo;s repeated attacks on the country&rsquo;s sovereignty. The surge in national sentiment has helped boost support for the Liberals in recent polling.
In a post on social media, Carney described the upcoming vote as a defining moment for the nation. &ldquo;The next election will be one of the most consequential in our lifetimes,&rdquo; he wrote.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorities-nab-indian-national-smuggling-170-pounds-of-ecstasy-from-canada-8874610">US authorities nab Indian national smuggling 170 pounds of ecstasy from Canada</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “I’ve just requested that the Governor General dissolve Parliament and call an election for April 28. She has agreed,” Carney announced on Sunday, referring to Mary Simon, the representative of King Charles III in Canada.

Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has called a snap general election for 28 April just nine days after taking office. The move comes as Canada faces growing tensions with US President Donald Trump over trade and sovereignty. “I’ve just requested that the Governor General dissolve Parliament and call an election for April 28. She has agreed,” Carney announced on Sunday, referring to Mary Simon, the representative of King Charles III in Canada. Also read: Who is Mark Carney? Canada’s new PM tasked with handling the 'crisis' called Trump Carney responds to Trump’s pressure Explaining the sudden decision, Carney pointed to what he described as an urgent national crisis driven by President Trump’s actions. “We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump’s unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,” Carney said. “There is so much more to do to secure Canada. To invest in Canada, to build Canada, to unite Canada,” he added. Also read: ‘We will never be part of US’: New Canadian PM Mark Carney calls ‘51st state’ idea ‘crazy’ in first speech Carney has accused the US president of destabilising Canada through punitive economic measures, including the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium, and threats of further tariffs on all Canadian goods from 2 April. “We needed to act because of Donald Trump’s tariffs,” Carney said. The snap election follows Carney’s recent selection as Liberal Party leader, replacing Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation in January but remained in office until a new leader was chosen earlier this month. Also read: After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown The opposition Conservatives had initially hoped to centre the election around Trudeau’s declining popularity due to inflation and immigration concerns. However, the upcoming vote is now expected to focus on who is best positioned to handle the challenges posed by Trump’s presidency. Carney’s tried to tap into the growing wave of nationalism across Canada, driven by President Trump’s repeated attacks on the country’s sovereignty. The surge in national sentiment has helped boost support for the Liberals in recent polling. In a post on social media, Carney described the upcoming vote as a defining moment for the nation. “The next election will be one of the most consequential in our lifetimes,” he wrote. Also read: US authorities nab Indian national smuggling 170 pounds of ecstasy from Canada (With inputs from agencies)

Canada’s new PM Mark Carney calls April 28 snap election, says ‘We needed to act because of Trump’s tariffs’

Ekrem Imamoglu, Istanbul&rsquo;s mayor and a leading opponent of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has been formally arrested and charged with multiple offences, including corruption and managing a criminal organisation.
<h2>Who is Ekrem Imamoglu? </h2>
Imamoglu, widely seen as the frontrunner to become the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) candidate for the 2028 presidential election, is one of Turkey&rsquo;s most popular political figures. He is expected to be officially selected in a party ballot on Sunday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-abdullah-ocalan-calls-for-pkk-to-disband-and-lay-down-arms-in-landmark-declaration-8763768">Turkey: Abdullah Ocalan calls for PKK to disband and lay down arms in landmark declaration</a>
The 54-year-old stunned Erdogan and his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in last year&rsquo;s municipal elections by securing a second term as mayor of Istanbul. The result was described by many commentators as &ldquo;Erdogan&rsquo;s worst defeat ever.&rdquo;
<h2>Charges against Ekrem Imamoglu</h2>
Imamoglu was detained on Wednesday as part of a wider investigation involving over 100 people, including other politicians, journalists, and business figures. 
His arrest has now been confirmed, and he faces charges of &ldquo;establishing and managing a criminal organisation, taking bribes, extortion, unlawfully recording personal data, and rigging a tender.&rdquo;
Prosecutors are also seeking to charge him with &ldquo;aiding an armed terrorist organisation,&rdquo; but the court has said this was &ldquo;not deemed necessary at this stage.&rdquo;
Imamoglu denies all allegations and insists the case is politically driven. &ldquo;I will never bow,&rdquo; he wrote on X before being taken into custody. In another post, he called the arrest a &ldquo;black stain on our democracy&rdquo; and criticised what he said were breaches in legal procedure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/istanbul-court-formally-places-mayor-under-arrest-on-graft-charges-8881907">Istanbul court formally places mayor under arrest on graft charges</a>
Local media report that he has been transferred to Marmara Prison in Silivri while awaiting trial.
<h2>Protests and political fallout</h2>
Imamoglu&rsquo;s detention has triggered widespread outrage, leading to some of the largest protests in Turkey in over a decade. Thousands of people have joined demonstrations across the country, demanding his release and accusing the government of using the judiciary for political gain.
Authorities responded with a four-day ban on public gatherings in Istanbul, which has since been extended to Ankara and Izmir as protests spread. Riot police have clashed with demonstrators, firing water cannons and pepper spray into crowds. Turkish officials say 343 people were arrested on Friday night alone.
On Saturday, even before demonstrations had begun, tear gas filled the air outside the mayor&rsquo;s office in Istanbul.
President Erdogan has condemned the protests and accused the CHP of attempting to &ldquo;disturb the peace and polarise our people.&rdquo;
One day before his arrest, Istanbul University announced that Imamoglu&rsquo;s degree was being revoked due to alleged irregularities. If upheld, this decision could prevent him from running for president, as the Turkish constitution requires presidential candidates to have completed higher education.
Imamoglu&rsquo;s legal team has said they will challenge the university's decision at the Constitutional Court and, if necessary, the European Court of Human Rights.
Despite his arrest, Imamoglu remains eligible to stand as a presidential candidate unless convicted. The final decision on his candidacy will rest with the Supreme Election Council.
The CHP, which had formed a de facto alliance with the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM) in the last local elections, has rejected the charges against Imamoglu. DEM has been accused of links to the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which it denies.
The Turkish Ministry of Justice has pushed back against suggestions that Erdogan was behind the arrests, insisting the judiciary operates independently.
Erdogan, who has ruled Turkey for 22 years as both prime minister and president, is barred by term limits from running again in 2028 unless the constitution is changed.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Imamoglu, widely seen as the frontrunner to become the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) candidate for the 2028 presidential election, is one of Turkey’s most popular political figures.

Ekrem Imamoglu, Istanbul’s mayor and a leading opponent of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has been formally arrested and charged with multiple offences, including corruption and managing a criminal organisation. Who is Ekrem Imamoglu? Imamoglu, widely seen as the frontrunner to become the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) candidate for the 2028 presidential election, is one of Turkey’s most popular political figures. He is expected to be officially selected in a party ballot on Sunday. Also read: Turkey: Abdullah Ocalan calls for PKK to disband and lay down arms in landmark declaration The 54-year-old stunned Erdogan and his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in last year’s municipal elections by securing a second term as mayor of Istanbul. The result was described by many commentators as “Erdogan’s worst defeat ever.” Charges against Ekrem Imamoglu Imamoglu was detained on Wednesday as part of a wider investigation involving over 100 people, including other politicians, journalists, and business figures. His arrest has now been confirmed, and he faces charges of “establishing and managing a criminal organisation, taking bribes, extortion, unlawfully recording personal data, and rigging a tender.” Prosecutors are also seeking to charge him with “aiding an armed terrorist organisation,” but the court has said this was “not deemed necessary at this stage.” Imamoglu denies all allegations and insists the case is politically driven. “I will never bow,” he wrote on X before being taken into custody. In another post, he called the arrest a “black stain on our democracy” and criticised what he said were breaches in legal procedure. Also read: Istanbul court formally places mayor under arrest on graft charges Local media report that he has been transferred to Marmara Prison in Silivri while awaiting trial. Protests and political fallout Imamoglu’s detention has triggered widespread outrage, leading to some of the largest protests in Turkey in over a decade. Thousands of people have joined demonstrations across the country, demanding his release and accusing the government of using the judiciary for political gain. Authorities responded with a four-day ban on public gatherings in Istanbul, which has since been extended to Ankara and Izmir as protests spread. Riot police have clashed with demonstrators, firing water cannons and pepper spray into crowds. Turkish officials say 343 people were arrested on Friday night alone. On Saturday, even before demonstrations had begun, tear gas filled the air outside the mayor’s office in Istanbul. President Erdogan has condemned the protests and accused the CHP of attempting to “disturb the peace and polarise our people.” One day before his arrest, Istanbul University announced that Imamoglu’s degree was being revoked due to alleged irregularities. If upheld, this decision could prevent him from running for president, as the Turkish constitution requires presidential candidates to have completed higher education. Imamoglu’s legal team has said they will challenge the university's decision at the Constitutional Court and, if necessary, the European Court of Human Rights. Despite his arrest, Imamoglu remains eligible to stand as a presidential candidate unless convicted. The final decision on his candidacy will rest with the Supreme Election Council. The CHP, which had formed a de facto alliance with the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM) in the last local elections, has rejected the charges against Imamoglu. DEM has been accused of links to the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which it denies. The Turkish Ministry of Justice has pushed back against suggestions that Erdogan was behind the arrests, insisting the judiciary operates independently. Erdogan, who has ruled Turkey for 22 years as both prime minister and president, is barred by term limits from running again in 2028 unless the constitution is changed. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Ekrem Imamoglu? Turkish President Erdogan’s biggest challenger facing terrorism-linked charges

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country despite a partial ceasefire agreement last week ahead of US-Ukraine talks on Sunday (Mar 23).
US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been &ldquo;duped&rdquo; by Hamas as he initially believed the militant group agreed to his bridge proposal but rejected it later.
Elon Musk&rsquo;s companies are set to benefit massively as the Trump administration continues to align policies with the billionaire's interests.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week.
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US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) &nbsp;that he may have been &ldquo;duped&rdquo; by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the &ldquo;acceptable deal&rdquo;.
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Elon Musk&rsquo;s companies are set to benefit massively from a wave of new federal contracts and support across several key US government departments, as the Trump administration continues to align policies with Musk&rsquo;s interests, as per The New York Times report.
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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter&rsquo;s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early.
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The United States is engaging in what&rsquo;s known as &lsquo;shuttlecock diplomacy&rsquo; as it holds separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations to explore a possible ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war.
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US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 23) reshared an X post by his close aide Elon Musk, suggesting he backs the claim made by the billionaire claiming a political party in South Africa is &ldquo;actively promoting white genocide&rdquo;. Interestingly, the Tesla CEO&rsquo;s claims were fact-checked by his own Grok AI, which said that some of his claims were not completely true and one was false, according to a Grok conversation link posted by a user.
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United States&rsquo; NATO allies, including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom, have issued fresh travel advisories for their citizens amid US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s immigration crackdown.
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It was all about Ishan Kishan till Sunday evening, and didn&rsquo;t he enjoy it? SunRisers Hyderabad&rsquo;s latest superstar smashed a hundred on his debut for the franchise, saying the freedom he got at his new IPL home brings the best out of him. His match-winning 106* helped the hosts beat Rajasthan Royals by 44 runs in their tournament opener, and Kishan had everyone but captain Pat Cummins to credit this win for, whom he thanked for backing him.

Discover the most impactful global stories with our roundup of the top news highlights, providing insights and updates from around the world to keep you informed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country despite a partial ceasefire agreement last week ahead of US-Ukraine talks on Sunday (Mar 23). US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been “duped” by Hamas as he initially believed the militant group agreed to his bridge proposal but rejected it later. Elon Musk’s companies are set to benefit massively as the Trump administration continues to align policies with the billionaire's interests. Click on the headlines for more ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week. US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been “duped” by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the “acceptable deal”. ‘Elon getting whatever Elon wants’: How Musk’s $300 million bet on Trump could make him billions Elon Musk’s companies are set to benefit massively from a wave of new federal contracts and support across several key US government departments, as the Trump administration continues to align policies with Musk’s interests, as per The New York Times report. Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter’s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early. What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine? The United States is engaging in what’s known as ‘shuttlecock diplomacy’ as it holds separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations to explore a possible ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. Trump backs Musk's claim of ‘white genocide’ in South Africa, Grok fact-check calls them out US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Mar 23) reshared an X post by his close aide Elon Musk, suggesting he backs the claim made by the billionaire claiming a political party in South Africa is “actively promoting white genocide”. Interestingly, the Tesla CEO’s claims were fact-checked by his own Grok AI, which said that some of his claims were not completely true and one was false, according to a Grok conversation link posted by a user. After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown United States’ NATO allies, including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom, have issued fresh travel advisories for their citizens amid US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Pope Francis makes first public appearance in five weeks as he leaves hospital Pope Francis makes first public appearance on Sunday (Mar 23) from the hospital balcony before being discharged to bless the crowd since being admitted on February 14. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling against pneumonia for five weeks. Who is Elsie Hewitt? Pete Davidson confirms romance with model following viral NSFW pics Pete Davidson is living it up with a new romance. Confirming he’s with a new girl, Pete shared some snaps with current partner Elsie Hewitt. IPL 2025: Kishan enjoys ‘freedom at SRH’; credits Cummins and management for trusting him It was all about Ishan Kishan till Sunday evening, and didn’t he enjoy it? SunRisers Hyderabad’s latest superstar smashed a hundred on his debut for the franchise, saying the freedom he got at his new IPL home brings the best out of him. His match-winning 106* helped the hosts beat Rajasthan Royals by 44 runs in their tournament opener, and Kishan had everyone but captain Pat Cummins to credit this win for, whom he thanked for backing him.

Top 10 world news: US-Ukraine talks on ceasefire today; US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him, and more

US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) &nbsp;that he may have been &ldquo;duped&rdquo; by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the &ldquo;acceptable deal&rdquo;.
&ldquo;I thought we had an acceptable deal. I even thought we had an approval from Hamas. Maybe that&rsquo;s just me getting duped. I thought we were there, and evidently we weren&rsquo;t,&rdquo; Witkoff told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-senior-political-official-his-wife-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-overnight-8882686">Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Bridge proposal&rsquo;</h2>
Witkoff&rsquo;s &ldquo;bridge&rdquo; proposal, which he presented his bridge proposal on his Doha on March 12, aimed to extend the ceasefire through April 19 and release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This would allow time for negotiations on a permanent cessation of fighting. While Israel accepted the proposal, it said that it would have freed 11 living hostages.
Hamas, on the other hand, insisted on staying on the original terms of the deal, according to which the second phase of the truce was supposed to begin in March. However, Israel refused talks on specific terms of phase two as it requires it to fully withdraw from Gaza and bring the war to an end permanently.
Witkoff, who submitted his bridge proposal earlier this month, agreed to Israel&rsquo;s reluctance on phase two.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-slams-us-claim-it-chose-war-over-hostage-release-gaza-ceasefire-8880092">&lsquo;Distortion of facts&rsquo;: Hamas slams US claim it 'chose war' over hostage release</a>
On March 14, Hamas offered to release the last living American hostage and four bodies of other US nationals, but Witkoff called the response ineffective. Israel resumed fighting in Gaza on March 18, breaking the ceasefire after two months.
<h2>&lsquo;This is on Hamas&rsquo;</h2>
&ldquo;This is on Hamas. The United States stands with the State of Israel. That&rsquo;s a 100% commitment,&rdquo; Witkoff told Fox News. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve expressed that Hamas had every opportunity to demilitarize, to accept the bridging proposal that would have given us a 40- or 50-day ceasefire where we could have discussed demilitarization and a final truce. There were all kinds of opportunities to do that, and they elected not to.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-warns-of-new-war-after-israels-retaliatory-attacks-that-killed-two-8880073">Lebanon warns of &lsquo;new war&rsquo; after Israel&rsquo;s retaliatory attacks kill two</a>
&ldquo;This (war) becomes the alternative, and it is unfortunate,&rdquo; he said, adding that the US would be &ldquo;amenable&rdquo; if Hamas reached out again.
&ldquo;I certainly hope we get everybody back to the table and get the hostages home.&rdquo;
Witkoff earlier said on Friday (Mar 21) that the parties were already &ldquo;talking,&rdquo; after Israel resumed its attack in Gaza.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-us-strikes-on-yemen-a-crime-that-must-be-stopped-8873071">Iran's Khamenei says US strikes on Yemen 'a crime that must be stopped'</a>
When asked about Iran recently, he reiterated his earlier statement on US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s letter to Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader Al Khamenei.
&ldquo;Our signal to Hamas and to Iran is: &lsquo;Let&rsquo;s sit down and see if we can through diplomacy get to the right place.&rsquo; If we can, we&rsquo;re prepared to do that. If we can&rsquo;t, the alternative is not a great alternative,&rdquo; Witkoff said, adding that Iran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Witkoff’s “bridge” proposal, which he presented his bridge proposal on his Doha on March 12, aimed to extend the ceasefire through April 19 and release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Sunday (Mar 23) that he may have been “duped” by Hamas as he initially believed the Palestinian militant group agreed to his bridge proposal to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, only for it to reject the “acceptable deal”. “I thought we had an acceptable deal. I even thought we had an approval from Hamas. Maybe that’s just me getting duped. I thought we were there, and evidently we weren’t,” Witkoff told Fox News on Sunday (Mar 23). Also read | Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight ‘Bridge proposal’ Witkoff’s “bridge” proposal, which he presented his bridge proposal on his Doha on March 12, aimed to extend the ceasefire through April 19 and release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This would allow time for negotiations on a permanent cessation of fighting. While Israel accepted the proposal, it said that it would have freed 11 living hostages. Hamas, on the other hand, insisted on staying on the original terms of the deal, according to which the second phase of the truce was supposed to begin in March. However, Israel refused talks on specific terms of phase two as it requires it to fully withdraw from Gaza and bring the war to an end permanently. Witkoff, who submitted his bridge proposal earlier this month, agreed to Israel’s reluctance on phase two. Also read | ‘Distortion of facts’: Hamas slams US claim it 'chose war' over hostage release On March 14, Hamas offered to release the last living American hostage and four bodies of other US nationals, but Witkoff called the response ineffective. Israel resumed fighting in Gaza on March 18, breaking the ceasefire after two months. ‘This is on Hamas’ “This is on Hamas. The United States stands with the State of Israel. That’s a 100% commitment,” Witkoff told Fox News. “We’ve expressed that Hamas had every opportunity to demilitarize, to accept the bridging proposal that would have given us a 40- or 50-day ceasefire where we could have discussed demilitarization and a final truce. There were all kinds of opportunities to do that, and they elected not to.” Also read | Lebanon warns of ‘new war’ after Israel’s retaliatory attacks kill two “This (war) becomes the alternative, and it is unfortunate,” he said, adding that the US would be “amenable” if Hamas reached out again. “I certainly hope we get everybody back to the table and get the hostages home.” Witkoff earlier said on Friday (Mar 21) that the parties were already “talking,” after Israel resumed its attack in Gaza. Also read | Iran's Khamenei says US strikes on Yemen 'a crime that must be stopped' When asked about Iran recently, he reiterated his earlier statement on US President Donald Trump’s letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Al Khamenei. “Our signal to Hamas and to Iran is: ‘Let’s sit down and see if we can through diplomacy get to the right place.’ If we can, we’re prepared to do that. If we can’t, the alternative is not a great alternative,” Witkoff said, adding that Iran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon. (With inputs from agencies)

US special envoy Witkoff says Hamas ‘duped’ him as he blames renewed attack in Gaza on militant group

Elon Musk&rsquo;s companies are set to benefit massively from a wave of new federal contracts and support across several key US government departments, as the Trump administration continues to align policies with Musk&rsquo;s interests, as per The New York Times report.
<h2>A new era of influence</h2>
Appointed by President Trump to lead a cost-cutting effort, Musk is running a group called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has overseen the dismissal of nearly 100,000 federal workers and the shutdown of various agencies. While the exact scope of his power is unclear, his growing influence is undeniable.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-backs-musks-claim-of-white-genocide-in-south-africa-grok-fact-check-calls-them-out-8883153">Trump backs Musk's claim of &lsquo;white genocide&rsquo; in South Africa, Grok fact-check calls them out</a>
<h2>SpaceX embedded across government</h2>
Across the government, Musk&rsquo;s aerospace company SpaceX is becoming deeply embedded.
<ul>
<li>The Pentagon is exploring the use of SpaceX rockets to rapidly transport military equipment around the globe.</li>
<li>NASA is being pushed, partly due to Musk&rsquo;s lobbying, to shift focus towards Mars exploration&mdash;a move that could see SpaceX winning major contracts to send the first humans to the red planet.</li>
<li>The FAA and White House have begun installing Starlink satellite internet terminals, expanding Musk&rsquo;s presence inside federal systems.</li>
</ul>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-nonsense-elon-musks-father-defends-son-says-he-was-friends-with-black-servants-during-apartheid-8881788">'Political nonsense': Elon Musk's father defends son, says he was 'friends' with Black servants during apartheid</a>
According to The New York Times, this expansion comes not only from Trump&rsquo;s directives but also from the placement of Musk&rsquo;s allies and former employees in influential government positions.
The New York Times report said, &ldquo;Even if Trump had never given Musk and his employees a government role&mdash;or if former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. had been elected to a second term&mdash;SpaceX would have continued to secure new government work. What has changed is the overall value of the work expected to be delivered to SpaceX.&rdquo;
<h2>Federal contracts</h2>
SpaceX was already a top federal contractor, with $3.8 billion in contracts secured in fiscal year 2024 across 344 deals. But that figure is expected to grow significantly under current policies prioritising private space companies for key services such as:
<ul>
<li>Satellite manufacturing</li>
<li>Communications infrastructure</li>
<li>Government transport missions</li>
</ul>
One major step includes the FAA&rsquo;s recent approval to double SpaceX&rsquo;s Falcon 9 rocket launches at Cape Canaveral, from 48 to 120 per year.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slimy-billionaire-elon-musk-blasted-for-buying-votes-in-wisconsin-court-election-as-trump-backs-brad-schimel-8880989">'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for &lsquo;buying votes&rsquo; in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel</a>
During the Biden administration, SpaceX&rsquo;s Starlink satellite internet service was mostly excluded from federal rural broadband funding. That changed with the appointment of Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary. At his confirmation hearing, Lutnick vowed to change how $42 billion in broadband funds are distributed.
&ldquo;Let&rsquo;s use satellites, let&rsquo;s use wireless, and let&rsquo;s use fibre,&rdquo; Lutnick said. &ldquo;And let&rsquo;s do it the cheapest, most efficiently we can.&rdquo; This shift allows Starlink to fully compete for rural broadband deals nationwide.
<h2>Ethical concerns </h2>
Musk&rsquo;s reach inside the government has raised ethical red flags. SpaceX employees embedded in federal agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration, have been granted ethics waivers allowing them to participate in decisions that may directly benefit SpaceX.
One employee, Theodore Malaska, posted on X that FAA systems are now integrating Starlink satellites to relay weather data to pilots, technology that could bring further revenue to Musk&rsquo;s company. Though the FAA claims only eight Starlink terminals are currently in use, others have appeared in White House offices and at the General Services Administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-makes-rare-admission-on-musks-conflicts-of-interest-says-certainly-you-wouldnt-show-the-businessman-china-war-plans-8878296">Trump makes rare admission on Musk&rsquo;s conflicts of interest, says 'wouldn&rsquo;t show' businessman China war plans</a>
Federal law prohibits employees from making decisions that benefit their financial interests or give the appearance of a conflict. While Musk has claimed he is not personally involved in securing contracts, the whole situation raises unprecedented questions about influence and access.
After a fatal collision between a military helicopter and a civilian plane in January, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy brought in SpaceX teams to help modernise air traffic systems. Musk soon criticised Verizon for delays in implementing the FAA&rsquo;s updated network, calling it a &ldquo;serious risk to air travellers&rdquo;. With Starlink now being considered as an alternative, SpaceX could secure a foothold in another critical infrastructure system.
Musk&rsquo;s influence comes after he donated nearly $300 million to Donald Trump&rsquo;s 2024 campaign and later joined the administration as a cost-cutting&nbsp;adviso.
Blair Levin, a former FCC official, told NYT, &ldquo;The odds of Elon getting whatever Elon wants are much higher today. He is in the White House and Mar-a-Lago. No one ever anticipated that an industry competitor would have access to those kinds of levers of power.&rdquo;
NASA, which has already paid SpaceX over $13 billion in contracts over the past decade, may hand over even more in future deals. These have included cargo and astronaut missions and launching the agency&rsquo;s largest space probes.
Now, Trump has nominated Jared Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur who paid SpaceX to fly to orbit twice, as the new head of NASA. Isaacman&rsquo;s firm, Shift4 Payments, previously held a stake in SpaceX, earning $25 million before selling it off. In his ethics filings, Isaacman promised to sever all remaining financial ties to the company.
He will join Michael Altenhofen, another former SpaceX staffer who became a senior NASA adviser in February.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: While Musk has claimed he is not personally involved in securing contracts, the whole situation raises unprecedented questions about influence and access.

Elon Musk’s companies are set to benefit massively from a wave of new federal contracts and support across several key US government departments, as the Trump administration continues to align policies with Musk’s interests, as per The New York Times report. A new era of influence Appointed by President Trump to lead a cost-cutting effort, Musk is running a group called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has overseen the dismissal of nearly 100,000 federal workers and the shutdown of various agencies. While the exact scope of his power is unclear, his growing influence is undeniable. Also read: Trump backs Musk's claim of ‘white genocide’ in South Africa, Grok fact-check calls them out SpaceX embedded across government Across the government, Musk’s aerospace company SpaceX is becoming deeply embedded. The Pentagon is exploring the use of SpaceX rockets to rapidly transport military equipment around the globe. NASA is being pushed, partly due to Musk’s lobbying, to shift focus towards Mars exploration—a move that could see SpaceX winning major contracts to send the first humans to the red planet. The FAA and White House have begun installing Starlink satellite internet terminals, expanding Musk’s presence inside federal systems. Also read: 'Political nonsense': Elon Musk's father defends son, says he was 'friends' with Black servants during apartheid According to The New York Times, this expansion comes not only from Trump’s directives but also from the placement of Musk’s allies and former employees in influential government positions. The New York Times report said, “Even if Trump had never given Musk and his employees a government role—or if former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. had been elected to a second term—SpaceX would have continued to secure new government work. What has changed is the overall value of the work expected to be delivered to SpaceX.” Federal contracts SpaceX was already a top federal contractor, with $3.8 billion in contracts secured in fiscal year 2024 across 344 deals. But that figure is expected to grow significantly under current policies prioritising private space companies for key services such as: Satellite manufacturing Communications infrastructure Government transport missions One major step includes the FAA’s recent approval to double SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launches at Cape Canaveral, from 48 to 120 per year. Also read: 'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for ‘buying votes’ in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel During the Biden administration, SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service was mostly excluded from federal rural broadband funding. That changed with the appointment of Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary. At his confirmation hearing, Lutnick vowed to change how $42 billion in broadband funds are distributed. “Let’s use satellites, let’s use wireless, and let’s use fibre,” Lutnick said. “And let’s do it the cheapest, most efficiently we can.” This shift allows Starlink to fully compete for rural broadband deals nationwide. Ethical concerns Musk’s reach inside the government has raised ethical red flags. SpaceX employees embedded in federal agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration, have been granted ethics waivers allowing them to participate in decisions that may directly benefit SpaceX. One employee, Theodore Malaska, posted on X that FAA systems are now integrating Starlink satellites to relay weather data to pilots, technology that could bring further revenue to Musk’s company. Though the FAA claims only eight Starlink terminals are currently in use, others have appeared in White House offices and at the General Services Administration. Also read: Trump makes rare admission on Musk’s conflicts of interest, says 'wouldn’t show' businessman China war plans Federal law prohibits employees from making decisions that benefit their financial interests or give the appearance of a conflict. While Musk has claimed he is not personally involved in securing contracts, the whole situation raises unprecedented questions about influence and access. After a fatal collision between a military helicopter and a civilian plane in January, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy brought in SpaceX teams to help modernise air traffic systems. Musk soon criticised Verizon for delays in implementing the FAA’s updated network, calling it a “serious risk to air travellers”. With Starlink now being considered as an alternative, SpaceX could secure a foothold in another critical infrastructure system. Musk’s influence comes after he donated nearly $300 million to Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign and later joined the administration as a cost-cutting adviso. Blair Levin, a former FCC official, told NYT, “The odds of Elon getting whatever Elon wants are much higher today. He is in the White House and Mar-a-Lago. No one ever anticipated that an industry competitor would have access to those kinds of levers of power.” NASA, which has already paid SpaceX over $13 billion in contracts over the past decade, may hand over even more in future deals. These have included cargo and astronaut missions and launching the agency’s largest space probes. Now, Trump has nominated Jared Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur who paid SpaceX to fly to orbit twice, as the new head of NASA. Isaacman’s firm, Shift4 Payments, previously held a stake in SpaceX, earning $25 million before selling it off. In his ethics filings, Isaacman promised to sever all remaining financial ties to the company. He will join Michael Altenhofen, another former SpaceX staffer who became a senior NASA adviser in February. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Elon getting whatever Elon wants’: How Musk’s $300 million bet on Trump could make him billions

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Sunday that at least 50,021 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory since war with Israel began in October 2023.
"The toll for the Israeli aggression has reached 50,021 martyrs and 113,274 wounded since October 7, 2023", a ministry statement said, referring to the day Hamas launched the attack on Israel that triggered the war.
The territory's civil defence agency, citing its own records, also said the toll had topped 50,000 deaths.
AFP has been unable to independently verify the figures, as has been the case throughout the war.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862" aria-label="&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
The United Nations has deemed the figures from the health ministry reliable.
The toll surged this week following the breakdown of a truce that had largely held since January 19, with Israel launching heavy bombardments of the Gaza Strip and a renewed ground offensive.
The health ministry reported at least 39 deaths in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of people killed to 673 since Israel resumed operations in the Palestinian territory on Tuesday.
A study published in early January in the British medical journal The Lancet estimated that the death toll in Gaza due to hostilities during the first nine months of fighting was about 40 percent higher than the figures recorded by the Gaza health ministry.
The health ministry said its latest toll includes 233 people previously considered missing whose deaths had been confirmed.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-gearing-up-to-deploy-deepseek-in-military-ops-increasing-use-in-non-combat-support-suggests-so-8882528" aria-label="China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so">China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so</a>
The war was sparked by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel which resulted in 1,218 deaths, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.
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| The territory's civil defence agency, citing its own records, also said the toll had topped 50,000 deaths.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Sunday that at least 50,021 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory since war with Israel began in October 2023. "The toll for the Israeli aggression has reached 50,021 martyrs and 113,274 wounded since October 7, 2023", a ministry statement said, referring to the day Hamas launched the attack on Israel that triggered the war. The territory's civil defence agency, citing its own records, also said the toll had topped 50,000 deaths. AFP has been unable to independently verify the figures, as has been the case throughout the war. Also Read | ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia The United Nations has deemed the figures from the health ministry reliable. The toll surged this week following the breakdown of a truce that had largely held since January 19, with Israel launching heavy bombardments of the Gaza Strip and a renewed ground offensive. The health ministry reported at least 39 deaths in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of people killed to 673 since Israel resumed operations in the Palestinian territory on Tuesday. A study published in early January in the British medical journal The Lancet estimated that the death toll in Gaza due to hostilities during the first nine months of fighting was about 40 percent higher than the figures recorded by the Gaza health ministry. The health ministry said its latest toll includes 233 people previously considered missing whose deaths had been confirmed. Also Read | China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so The war was sparked by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel which resulted in 1,218 deaths, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures. 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.

Death toll in Gaza war reaches over 50,000, says health ministry

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter&rsquo;s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early.
Starmer said in an interview with the New York Times (NYT) that was published March 23, that the U.K. is acting as a bridge between Ukraine and the U.S. and that President Donald Trump&rsquo;s actions, such as rebuking Zelensky, have caused &ldquo;a degree of disorientation&rdquo;. He added that the best response is not to get provoked.
&ldquo;On the day in which the Oval Office meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky didn&rsquo;t go particularly well, we were under pressure to come out very critically with, you know, flowery adjectives to describe how others felt,&rdquo; Starmer told the NYT in the interview.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
Starmer said that instead of doing what was desired, and withstanding the pressure, he decided to call both sides to &ldquo;try and get them back on the same page&rdquo;. He added that he has a good relationship with Trump and understands &ldquo;what he&rsquo;s trying to achieve&rdquo;.
Following the heated Oval Office clash, Starmer sent his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, to Kyiv to counsel Zelensky on how to mend the frayed ties with Trump. The British leader later updated Trump on Kyiv&rsquo;s progress, helping set up a call between the two presidents that saw Zelensky openly back Trump&rsquo;s peace efforts. Washington restored military aid and intelligence support to Kyiv and, at times, threatened Russia with sanctions.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
Starmer, who is a strong supporter of Ukraine, has called for countries to join a &ldquo;coalition of the willing&rdquo; to support Ukraine with a peacekeeping force. He warned that Putin will breach any peace deal unless security guarantees are in place.&nbsp; Starmer is trying to build a multinational military force with the goal of keeping Ukraine&rsquo;s skies, ports, and borders secure after any peace settlement.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-have-to-come-to-the-table-starmers-plan-b-for-ukraine-ceasefire-8857525" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire</a> &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t trust Putin,&rdquo; Starmer said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m sure Putin would try to insist that Ukraine should be defenseless after a deal because that gives him what he wants, which is the opportunity to go in again.&rdquo; &ldquo;It needs to be clear to Putin that there will be severe consequences if he breaches the lines,&rdquo; the UK PM said on March 20.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-call-underway-white-house-says-talks-going-well-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-8866815" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS</a> Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are quite sceptical of Washington&rsquo;s attempts to broker a ceasefire. A U.S.-orchestrated 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure was agreed by Moscow and Kyiv on March 18, but Russia has continued to launch hundreds of drones at Ukraine, killing dozens of civilians.
U.S. negotiators are scheduled to meet Ukrainian and Russian delegates separately in Riyadh on March 24 to discuss the partial ceasefire proposal.

World: Following the heated Oval Office clash, Starmer sent his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, to Kyiv to counsel Zelensky on how to mend the frayed ties with Trump. He later helped set up a call between the two presidents.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter’s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early. Starmer said in an interview with the New York Times (NYT) that was published March 23, that the U.K. is acting as a bridge between Ukraine and the U.S. and that President Donald Trump’s actions, such as rebuking Zelensky, have caused “a degree of disorientation”. He added that the best response is not to get provoked. “On the day in which the Oval Office meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky didn’t go particularly well, we were under pressure to come out very critically with, you know, flowery adjectives to describe how others felt,” Starmer told the NYT in the interview. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting Starmer said that instead of doing what was desired, and withstanding the pressure, he decided to call both sides to “try and get them back on the same page”. He added that he has a good relationship with Trump and understands “what he’s trying to achieve”. Following the heated Oval Office clash, Starmer sent his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, to Kyiv to counsel Zelensky on how to mend the frayed ties with Trump. The British leader later updated Trump on Kyiv’s progress, helping set up a call between the two presidents that saw Zelensky openly back Trump’s peace efforts. Washington restored military aid and intelligence support to Kyiv and, at times, threatened Russia with sanctions. Also read: Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff Starmer, who is a strong supporter of Ukraine, has called for countries to join a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine with a peacekeeping force. He warned that Putin will breach any peace deal unless security guarantees are in place. Starmer is trying to build a multinational military force with the goal of keeping Ukraine’s skies, ports, and borders secure after any peace settlement. Also read: 'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire “I don’t trust Putin,” Starmer said. “I’m sure Putin would try to insist that Ukraine should be defenseless after a deal because that gives him what he wants, which is the opportunity to go in again.” “It needs to be clear to Putin that there will be severe consequences if he breaches the lines,” the UK PM said on March 20. Also read: Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are quite sceptical of Washington’s attempts to broker a ceasefire. A U.S.-orchestrated 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure was agreed by Moscow and Kyiv on March 18, but Russia has continued to launch hundreds of drones at Ukraine, killing dozens of civilians. U.S. negotiators are scheduled to meet Ukrainian and Russian delegates separately in Riyadh on March 24 to discuss the partial ceasefire proposal.

Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report

The United States is engaging in what&rsquo;s known as &lsquo;shuttlecock diplomacy&rsquo; as it holds separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations to explore a possible ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war.
On 23 March, a Ukrainian delegation is set to meet with a US technical team in Riyadh. The following day, 24 March, the US will then hold separate talks with a Russian negotiating group, which is being led by a former FSB chief who reportedly played a central role in planning President Vladimir Putin&rsquo;s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Thursday that his country&rsquo;s representatives would meet with US officials in Saudi Arabia and provide a list of key energy infrastructure sites they believe should be excluded from Russian attacks. The US team would then relay this information during its subsequent meeting with the Russian delegation.
This diplomatic method, where one party carries messages between the opposing sides without them sitting down face to face, is known as shuttle diplomacy, or sometimes &lsquo;shuttlecock diplomacy&rsquo;.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
<h2>What is shuttlecock diplomacy?</h2>
Shuttle diplomacy is a negotiation strategy used when direct contact between conflicting parties is either difficult or impossible due to tension, mistrust, or political complications. An outside intermediary, often a diplomat, moves between each side, carrying proposals, responses, and demands.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-trump-trust-each-other-want-to-normalise-ties-kremlin-8869590">Russia, US set to decide on dates for future talks, Kremlin says Putin and Trump want to normalise ties</a>
This method became widely recognised in the 1970s when then US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger used it to help mediate the Arab-Israeli conflict by flying between Jerusalem and Cairo to broker peace deals.
In the current context, the US appears to be taking on that intermediary role between Ukraine and Russia, especially with the added complexity of neither side showing willingness for direct negotiations.
Despite this effort, both Russia and Ukraine have previously rejected the White House&rsquo;s version of earlier discussions, casting doubt on claims by Donald Trump that a swift ceasefire is within reach. Trump, who has voiced his desire for a quick resolution to the war, may have overstated the progress made during past US-brokered talks.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: This diplomatic method, where one party carries messages between the opposing sides without them sitting down face to face, is known as shuttle diplomacy, or sometimes ‘shuttlecock diplomacy’.

The United States is engaging in what’s known as ‘shuttlecock diplomacy’ as it holds separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations to explore a possible ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. On 23 March, a Ukrainian delegation is set to meet with a US technical team in Riyadh. The following day, 24 March, the US will then hold separate talks with a Russian negotiating group, which is being led by a former FSB chief who reportedly played a central role in planning President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Also read: ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Thursday that his country’s representatives would meet with US officials in Saudi Arabia and provide a list of key energy infrastructure sites they believe should be excluded from Russian attacks. The US team would then relay this information during its subsequent meeting with the Russian delegation. This diplomatic method, where one party carries messages between the opposing sides without them sitting down face to face, is known as shuttle diplomacy, or sometimes ‘shuttlecock diplomacy’. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting What is shuttlecock diplomacy? Shuttle diplomacy is a negotiation strategy used when direct contact between conflicting parties is either difficult or impossible due to tension, mistrust, or political complications. An outside intermediary, often a diplomat, moves between each side, carrying proposals, responses, and demands. Also read: Russia, US set to decide on dates for future talks, Kremlin says Putin and Trump want to normalise ties This method became widely recognised in the 1970s when then US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger used it to help mediate the Arab-Israeli conflict by flying between Jerusalem and Cairo to broker peace deals. In the current context, the US appears to be taking on that intermediary role between Ukraine and Russia, especially with the added complexity of neither side showing willingness for direct negotiations. Despite this effort, both Russia and Ukraine have previously rejected the White House’s version of earlier discussions, casting doubt on claims by Donald Trump that a swift ceasefire is within reach. Trump, who has voiced his desire for a quick resolution to the war, may have overstated the progress made during past US-brokered talks. Also read: Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff (With inputs from agencies)

What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine?

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticised a federal judge on Saturday after she blocked a ban on transgender troops in the military. His remarks follow similar attacks on the judiciary by President Donald Trump and other officials. &nbsp;
<h2>Judge rules against Trump&rsquo;s order &nbsp;</h2>
US District Judge Ana Reyes ruled that Trump&rsquo;s executive order, issued on January 27, likely violated the US Constitution&rsquo;s guarantee of equal protection. The order was one of several targeting transgender rights. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862" aria-label="&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
<h2>Hegseth&rsquo;s mocking response &nbsp;</h2>
Hegseth mocked the judge in a social media post, sarcastically calling her &ldquo;Commander Reyes&rdquo; and suggesting she had overstepped her role.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-gearing-up-to-deploy-deepseek-in-military-ops-increasing-use-in-non-combat-support-suggests-so-8882528" aria-label="China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so">China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Since &ldquo;Judge&rdquo; Reyes is now a top military planner, she/they can report to Fort Benning at 0600 to instruct our Army Rangers on how to execute High Value Target Raids&hellip;after that, Commander Reyes can dispatch to Fort Bragg to train our Green Berets on counterinsurgency warfare. <a href="https://t.co/CNrl252Irs">https://t.co/CNrl252Irs</a>
&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/1903529403151249656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-european-nations-canada-warns-citizens-travelling-to-us-amid-trumps-immigration-crackdown-8883018" aria-label="After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown">After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown</a>
&ldquo;Since &lsquo;Judge&rsquo; Reyes is now a top military planner, she/they can report to Fort Benning at 0600 to instruct our Army Rangers,&rdquo; he wrote. &ldquo;After that, Commander Reyes can head to Fort Bragg to train our Green Berets.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678" aria-label="&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
<h2>Hegseth&rsquo;s strong stance on military policies</h2>
Hegseth, a military veteran and former Fox News host, has been pushing to ban transgender troops and remove diversity programs from the military.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Hegseth mocked the judge in a social media post, sarcastically calling her “Commander Reyes” and suggesting she had overstepped her role.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticised a federal judge on Saturday after she blocked a ban on transgender troops in the military. His remarks follow similar attacks on the judiciary by President Donald Trump and other officials. Judge rules against Trump’s order US District Judge Ana Reyes ruled that Trump’s executive order, issued on January 27, likely violated the US Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection. The order was one of several targeting transgender rights. Also Read | ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia Hegseth’s mocking response Hegseth mocked the judge in a social media post, sarcastically calling her “Commander Reyes” and suggesting she had overstepped her role. Also Read | China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so Since “Judge” Reyes is now a top military planner, she/they can report to Fort Benning at 0600 to instruct our Army Rangers on how to execute High Value Target Raids…after that, Commander Reyes can dispatch to Fort Bragg to train our Green Berets on counterinsurgency warfare. https://t.co/CNrl252Irs — Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) March 22, 2025 Also Read | After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown “Since ‘Judge’ Reyes is now a top military planner, she/they can report to Fort Benning at 0600 to instruct our Army Rangers,” he wrote. “After that, Commander Reyes can head to Fort Bragg to train our Green Berets.” Also Read | ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting Hegseth’s strong stance on military policies Hegseth, a military veteran and former Fox News host, has been pushing to ban transgender troops and remove diversity programs from the military. (With inputs from agencies)

US defense secretary mocks judge for blocking transgender troop ban

United States&rsquo; NATO allies, including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom, have issued fresh travel advisories for their citizens amid US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s immigration crackdown.
Some travel warnings also noted that the US State Department has suspended its policy that allowed transgender, intersex and nonbinary individuals to update their sex field on their passports.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/x-gender-dont-risk-it-denmark-finland-join-list-of-nations-warning-transgender-travellers-heading-to-us-8880406">&lsquo;X&rsquo; gender? Don&rsquo;t risk it: Denmark, Finland join list of nations warning transgender tourists heading to US</a>
Ottawa has issued travel advisories for citizens staying in the US for over 30 days, warning them to register or face penalties. Earlier, Canadian nationals were not required to carry a visa or register to travel to the US. However, Trump has made the registrations compulsory amid the rising tension between the two nations over tariffs and immigration.
&ldquo;Canadians and other foreign nationals visiting the United States for periods longer than 30 days must be registered with the United States Government. Failure to comply with the registration requirement could result in penalties, fines, and misdemeanour prosecution,&rdquo; the advisory read.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-no-longer-safe-for-tourists-uk-germany-issue-travel-warnings-after-woman-detained-like-hannibal-trump-immigration-crackdown-8876514">US no longer safe for tourists? UK, Germany issue travel warnings after woman detained &lsquo;like Hannibal&rsquo;</a>
Canada has also updated its travel advisory for China following the recent execution of four Canadians in China.
<h2>US NATO allies update travel advisories</h2>
The United Kingdom has warned its citizens to &lsquo;comply with all entry, visa and other conditions of entry&rsquo;.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-revive-his-travel-ban-43-nations-on-the-chopping-block-including-russia-and-iran-8856103">Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran</a>
According to the advisory, &ldquo;The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules strictly. You may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules. If you&rsquo;re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK.&rdquo;
German Foreign Office has also issued warnings for citizens using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a visa does not guarantee the right to enter the US, according to local media website DER SPIEGEL.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/register-or-be-treated-as-criminal-900000-snowbird-canadians-face-new-us-travel-restrictions-amid-trade-war-8847588">Register or &lsquo;be treated as criminal&rsquo;: 900,000 &lsquo;snowbird&rsquo; Canadians face new US travel restrictions amid trade war</a>
&ldquo;The final decision as to whether a person can enter the United States rests with the American border authorities. But that's no surprise; it's the same in Germany,&rdquo; a spokesperson said as quoted by the outlet.
Finland&rsquo;s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory warning citizens that the US only recognises two sexes and if the gender on their passport &lsquo;does not match their gender assigned at birth, their travel permit or visa application can be denied&rsquo;.
Denmark has issued a similar warning, adding that travellers risk being detained in the US.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Earlier, Canadian nationals were not required to carry a visa or register to travel to the US. However, Trump has made the registrations compulsory amid the rising tension between the two nations over tariffs and immigration.

United States’ NATO allies, including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom, have issued fresh travel advisories for their citizens amid US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Some travel warnings also noted that the US State Department has suspended its policy that allowed transgender, intersex and nonbinary individuals to update their sex field on their passports. Also read | ‘X’ gender? Don’t risk it: Denmark, Finland join list of nations warning transgender tourists heading to US Ottawa has issued travel advisories for citizens staying in the US for over 30 days, warning them to register or face penalties. Earlier, Canadian nationals were not required to carry a visa or register to travel to the US. However, Trump has made the registrations compulsory amid the rising tension between the two nations over tariffs and immigration. “Canadians and other foreign nationals visiting the United States for periods longer than 30 days must be registered with the United States Government. Failure to comply with the registration requirement could result in penalties, fines, and misdemeanour prosecution,” the advisory read. Also read | US no longer safe for tourists? UK, Germany issue travel warnings after woman detained ‘like Hannibal’ Canada has also updated its travel advisory for China following the recent execution of four Canadians in China. US NATO allies update travel advisories The United Kingdom has warned its citizens to ‘comply with all entry, visa and other conditions of entry’. Also read | Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran According to the advisory, “The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules strictly. You may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK.” German Foreign Office has also issued warnings for citizens using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a visa does not guarantee the right to enter the US, according to local media website DER SPIEGEL. Also read | Register or ‘be treated as criminal’: 900,000 ‘snowbird’ Canadians face new US travel restrictions amid trade war “The final decision as to whether a person can enter the United States rests with the American border authorities. But that's no surprise; it's the same in Germany,” a spokesperson said as quoted by the outlet. Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory warning citizens that the US only recognises two sexes and if the gender on their passport ‘does not match their gender assigned at birth, their travel permit or visa application can be denied’. Denmark has issued a similar warning, adding that travellers risk being detained in the US. (With inputs from agencies)

After European nations, Canada warns citizens travelling to US amid Trump's immigration crackdown

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week.
Speaking ahead of ceasefire discussions due to take place in Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy highlighted recent deadly incidents, including a drone attack on Kyiv that killed at least three people and a separate strike on Zaporizhzhia, where a family of three lost their lives late Friday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
In a post shared on X, Zelensky wrote, &ldquo;These attacks are a daily reality. This week alone, over 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people."
"All of this weaponry contains at least 102,000 foreign components. That&rsquo;s why sanctions against Russian terrorists must be more effective. Every loophole that allows them to bypass the sanctions regime must be eliminated," he added.
"New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war. We must strengthen Ukraine and our army &ndash; with more air defense systems and real support. I thank all partners who understand this and continue to support Ukraine," Zelensky added.
Authorities in Ukraine said Sunday&rsquo;s overnight drone assault on the capital left eight people injured, including a five-year-old child among the dead. Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have downed 59 Ukrainian drones across southern regions and Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-call-underway-white-house-says-talks-going-well-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-8866815">Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS</a>
<h2>Trump envoy dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s ceasefire proposal</h2>
In another development, Donald Trump&rsquo;s special envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer&rsquo;s plan to form an international force to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling it &ldquo;a posture and a pose.&rdquo;
Witkoff said: "I think it's a combination of a posture and a pose and a combination of also being simplistic. Russians are going to march across Europe. That is preposterous by the way. We have something called Nato that we did not have in World War Two."
Speaking in an interview with Tucker Carlson, Witkoff criticised what he described as a &ldquo;simplistic&rdquo; approach from Starmer and European leaders, adding, &ldquo;There is this sort of notion that we have all got to be like Winston Churchill.&rdquo;
Witkoff also offered praise for Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t regard Putin as a bad guy. He&rsquo;s super smart.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
He claimed that Putin had been &ldquo;gracious&rdquo; during their meeting ten days earlier and had even told him he prayed for Trump after last year&rsquo;s assassination attempt. Putin had also gifted Trump a portrait, which Witkoff said &ldquo;clearly touched&rdquo; the former US president.
During the interview, Witkoff echoed multiple Russian narratives, including the claim that Ukraine is &ldquo;a false country.&rdquo; He questioned whether the international community would ever recognise the five occupied regions of Ukraine as part of Russia.
Although leading US negotiations, Witkoff struggled to name the five regions Russia has annexed or partially controls, referring vaguely to &ldquo;these so-called four regions, Donbas, Crimea&hellip; and there are two others.&rdquo;
The five regions are Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. Donbas refers to the industrial area covering much of Luhansk and Donetsk.
Witkoff said, &ldquo;The elephant in the room is, there are constitutional issues within Ukraine as to what they can concede to with regard to giving up territory. The Russians are de facto in control of these territories. The question is: will the world acknowledge that those are Russian territories?&rdquo;
He went on to say, &ldquo;There&rsquo;s a sensibility in Russia that Ukraine is just a false country&hellip; patched together in this sort of mosaic&hellip; and that&rsquo;s what is the root cause, in my opinion, of this war.&rdquo;
The US is due to hold separate meetings with both Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia over Sunday and Monday to discuss the possibility of a ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-have-to-come-to-the-table-starmers-plan-b-for-ukraine-ceasefire-8857525">'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to form an international force to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling it “a posture and a pose.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week. Speaking ahead of ceasefire discussions due to take place in Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy highlighted recent deadly incidents, including a drone attack on Kyiv that killed at least three people and a separate strike on Zaporizhzhia, where a family of three lost their lives late Friday. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting In a post shared on X, Zelensky wrote, “These attacks are a daily reality. This week alone, over 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people." "All of this weaponry contains at least 102,000 foreign components. That’s why sanctions against Russian terrorists must be more effective. Every loophole that allows them to bypass the sanctions regime must be eliminated," he added. "New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war. We must strengthen Ukraine and our army – with more air defense systems and real support. I thank all partners who understand this and continue to support Ukraine," Zelensky added. Authorities in Ukraine said Sunday’s overnight drone assault on the capital left eight people injured, including a five-year-old child among the dead. Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have downed 59 Ukrainian drones across southern regions and Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014. Also read: Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS Trump envoy dismisses Starmer’s ceasefire proposal In another development, Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to form an international force to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling it “a posture and a pose.” Witkoff said: "I think it's a combination of a posture and a pose and a combination of also being simplistic. Russians are going to march across Europe. That is preposterous by the way. We have something called Nato that we did not have in World War Two." Speaking in an interview with Tucker Carlson, Witkoff criticised what he described as a “simplistic” approach from Starmer and European leaders, adding, “There is this sort of notion that we have all got to be like Winston Churchill.” Witkoff also offered praise for Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “I don’t regard Putin as a bad guy. He’s super smart.” Also read: Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff He claimed that Putin had been “gracious” during their meeting ten days earlier and had even told him he prayed for Trump after last year’s assassination attempt. Putin had also gifted Trump a portrait, which Witkoff said “clearly touched” the former US president. During the interview, Witkoff echoed multiple Russian narratives, including the claim that Ukraine is “a false country.” He questioned whether the international community would ever recognise the five occupied regions of Ukraine as part of Russia. Although leading US negotiations, Witkoff struggled to name the five regions Russia has annexed or partially controls, referring vaguely to “these so-called four regions, Donbas, Crimea… and there are two others.” The five regions are Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. Donbas refers to the industrial area covering much of Luhansk and Donetsk. Witkoff said, “The elephant in the room is, there are constitutional issues within Ukraine as to what they can concede to with regard to giving up territory. The Russians are de facto in control of these territories. The question is: will the world acknowledge that those are Russian territories?” He went on to say, “There’s a sensibility in Russia that Ukraine is just a false country… patched together in this sort of mosaic… and that’s what is the root cause, in my opinion, of this war.” The US is due to hold separate meetings with both Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia over Sunday and Monday to discuss the possibility of a ceasefire. Also read: 'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire (With inputs from agencies)

‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia

Hamas group confirmed that an Israeli airstrike in Gaza killed its senior political leader Salah al-Bardaweel and his wife, according to Palestinian media reports.
The airstrike bombed southern Gaza's Khan Younis as Israel renewed its fighting in the besieged Palestinian enclave.
Bardawil was a prominent member of the militant group's political wing, who had given interviews to the media over the years.
<h2>Hamas describes Bardaweel's death as 'assassination'</h2>
Hamas, in a statement, described Bardaweel's death as an "assassination."
"His blood, that of his wife and martyrs, will remain fuelling the battle of liberation and independence," said the group.
Bardaweel's death is the latest in the string of Hamas politicians to have been killed in the renewed Israeli airstrikes.
On Tuesday (Mar 18), the militant group confirmed that the head of its government in the Gaza Strip, Essam al-Dalis, was among the officials killed in Israeli strikes on the besieged Palestinian enclave.
"These leaders, along with their families, were martyred after being directly targeted by the Zionist occupation forces' aircraft," said the Hamas statement.
It further said that interior ministry head Mahmud Abu Watfa and Bahjat Abu Sultan, director-general of the internal security service, were also killed in the strikes.
Dalis, a prominent Hamas member, was elected to the movement's Gaza leadership in March 2021. Just a few months later, in June 2021, he took on the significant role of heading the Government Administrative Committee of the Gaza Strip, effectively serving as the head of government.
Israel, in November 2023, claimed to have bombed a Hamas structure, where Dalis was present with other leaders who were killed.
<h2>IDF tells Gazans to evacuate part of southern city of Rafah</h2>
Israeli army, on Sunday (Mar 23), called for the residents of the Gaza Strip in the Tel Sultan area in Rafah to immediately evacuate as forces launched an offensive against militants in the area.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8lkrggp-otb88gsa-pg2kgx6v">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%AC%D9%84?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#عاجل</a> ‼️ انذار عاجل الى سكان قطاع غزة المتواجدين في منطقة تل السلطان في رفح ⭕️بدأ جيش الدفاع هجوماً لضرب المنظمات الإرهابية حيث تعتبر المنطقة التي تتواجدون فيها منطقة قتال خطيرة. ⭕️شارع غوش قطيف يعتبر مسارًا إنسانيًا لاستخدامكم من أجل الانتقال الى منطقة المواصي. 🔴نحذركم:&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/7uY6g8GBEV">pic.twitter.com/7uY6g8GBEV</a>
&mdash; افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvichayAdraee/status/1903696196587180347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
Taking to X, military spokesman Avichay Adraee said that the army "launched an offensive to strike the terrorist organisations" in Rafah's Tal al-Sultan district.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas, in a statement, described Bardaweel's death as an "assassination." "His blood, that of his wife and martyrs, will remain fuelling the battle of liberation and independence," said the group.

Hamas group confirmed that an Israeli airstrike in Gaza killed its senior political leader Salah al-Bardaweel and his wife, according to Palestinian media reports. The airstrike bombed southern Gaza's Khan Younis as Israel renewed its fighting in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Bardawil was a prominent member of the militant group's political wing, who had given interviews to the media over the years. Hamas describes Bardaweel's death as 'assassination' Hamas, in a statement, described Bardaweel's death as an "assassination." "His blood, that of his wife and martyrs, will remain fuelling the battle of liberation and independence," said the group. Bardaweel's death is the latest in the string of Hamas politicians to have been killed in the renewed Israeli airstrikes. On Tuesday (Mar 18), the militant group confirmed that the head of its government in the Gaza Strip, Essam al-Dalis, was among the officials killed in Israeli strikes on the besieged Palestinian enclave. "These leaders, along with their families, were martyred after being directly targeted by the Zionist occupation forces' aircraft," said the Hamas statement. It further said that interior ministry head Mahmud Abu Watfa and Bahjat Abu Sultan, director-general of the internal security service, were also killed in the strikes. Dalis, a prominent Hamas member, was elected to the movement's Gaza leadership in March 2021. Just a few months later, in June 2021, he took on the significant role of heading the Government Administrative Committee of the Gaza Strip, effectively serving as the head of government. Israel, in November 2023, claimed to have bombed a Hamas structure, where Dalis was present with other leaders who were killed. IDF tells Gazans to evacuate part of southern city of Rafah Israeli army, on Sunday (Mar 23), called for the residents of the Gaza Strip in the Tel Sultan area in Rafah to immediately evacuate as forces launched an offensive against militants in the area. #عاجل ‼️ انذار عاجل الى سكان قطاع غزة المتواجدين في منطقة تل السلطان في رفح ⭕️بدأ جيش الدفاع هجوماً لضرب المنظمات الإرهابية حيث تعتبر المنطقة التي تتواجدون فيها منطقة قتال خطيرة. ⭕️شارع غوش قطيف يعتبر مسارًا إنسانيًا لاستخدامكم من أجل الانتقال الى منطقة المواصي. 🔴نحذركم:… pic.twitter.com/7uY6g8GBEV — افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) March 23, 2025 Taking to X, military spokesman Avichay Adraee said that the army "launched an offensive to strike the terrorist organisations" in Rafah's Tal al-Sultan district. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas confirms senior political official, his wife killed in Israeli airstrike overnight

The Kremlin on Sunday (March 23) reiterated that peace talks to end the war in Ukraine will not be quick or easy, stating that negotiations are only just beginning and will involve &ldquo;difficult&rdquo; discussions.
&ldquo;We are only at the beginning of this path,&rdquo; Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian state television on Sunday. 
He said that upcoming talks with the United States, set to take place in Saudi Arabia on Monday, would be &ldquo;difficult.&rdquo; He also said that Moscow's main priority in the talks would be restarting a deal to allow safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-six-wounded-in-ukraine-drone-strikes-8879143">Russia says six wounded in Ukraine drone strikes</a>
<h2>Ukraine, US talks in Riyadh</h2>
Ukrainian representatives are expected to meet with a US technical delegation in Riyadh on 23 March. The following day, on 24 March, the United States plans to hold separate meetings with both Ukrainian and Russian delegations.
The meeting was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on 22 March. &ldquo;A US-Ukraine meeting will take place tomorrow, March 23, in Saudi Arabia,&rdquo; Zelensky announced.
US Envoy Steve Witkoff also confirmed that Washington will hold diplomatic talks with Moscow in Jeddah on the same day.
Earlier, Zelensky had indicated that Ukrainian and US teams would meet on 24 March in Riyadh, where American negotiators would also meet separately with both sides. US Special Envoy Keith Kellog referred to this method as &ldquo;shuttle diplomacy.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-trump-trust-each-other-want-to-normalise-ties-kremlin-8869590">Russia, US set to decide on dates for future talks, Kremlin says Putin and Trump want to normalise ties</a>
According to Zelensky, Ukraine is sending technical teams to discuss the specifics of a possible partial ceasefire with Russia. However, Ukrainian officials stressed there would be no direct discussions between Ukraine and Russia in Riyadh.
<h2>Partial ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine</h2>
Moscow has dismissed a joint US-Ukraine proposal for a full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire, instead offering to pause air strikes on energy infrastructure.
Despite the planned negotiations, both sides have continued their attacks. On Friday night, a Russian strike in Zaporizhzhia killed a family of three, causing outrage among Ukrainian authorities.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-irans-nuclear-program-will-be-subject-of-future-russia-us-talks-8821896">Kremlin says Iran's nuclear programme will be subject of future Russia-US talks</a>
Ukraine&rsquo;s emergency service reported that Russian drone strikes on Kyiv hit residential buildings and caused fires, leaving at least two people dead.
In response, Russia&rsquo;s defence ministry said it had &ldquo;destroyed and intercepted&rdquo; 59 Ukrainian drones overnight, mostly over the Rostov and Astrakhan regions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-visits-troops-near-front-line-defending-embattled-eastern-city-of-pokrovsk-8880148">Zelensky visits troops near front line defending embattled eastern city of Pokrovsk</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Ukrainian representatives are expected to meet with a US technical delegation in Riyadh on 23 March. The following day US will hold separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations.

The Kremlin on Sunday (March 23) reiterated that peace talks to end the war in Ukraine will not be quick or easy, stating that negotiations are only just beginning and will involve “difficult” discussions. “We are only at the beginning of this path,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian state television on Sunday. He said that upcoming talks with the United States, set to take place in Saudi Arabia on Monday, would be “difficult.” He also said that Moscow's main priority in the talks would be restarting a deal to allow safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea. Also read: Russia says six wounded in Ukraine drone strikes Ukraine, US talks in Riyadh Ukrainian representatives are expected to meet with a US technical delegation in Riyadh on 23 March. The following day, on 24 March, the United States plans to hold separate meetings with both Ukrainian and Russian delegations. The meeting was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on 22 March. “A US-Ukraine meeting will take place tomorrow, March 23, in Saudi Arabia,” Zelensky announced. US Envoy Steve Witkoff also confirmed that Washington will hold diplomatic talks with Moscow in Jeddah on the same day. Earlier, Zelensky had indicated that Ukrainian and US teams would meet on 24 March in Riyadh, where American negotiators would also meet separately with both sides. US Special Envoy Keith Kellog referred to this method as “shuttle diplomacy.” Also read: Russia, US set to decide on dates for future talks, Kremlin says Putin and Trump want to normalise ties According to Zelensky, Ukraine is sending technical teams to discuss the specifics of a possible partial ceasefire with Russia. However, Ukrainian officials stressed there would be no direct discussions between Ukraine and Russia in Riyadh. Partial ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine Moscow has dismissed a joint US-Ukraine proposal for a full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire, instead offering to pause air strikes on energy infrastructure. Despite the planned negotiations, both sides have continued their attacks. On Friday night, a Russian strike in Zaporizhzhia killed a family of three, causing outrage among Ukrainian authorities. Also read: Kremlin says Iran's nuclear programme will be subject of future Russia-US talks Ukraine’s emergency service reported that Russian drone strikes on Kyiv hit residential buildings and caused fires, leaving at least two people dead. In response, Russia’s defence ministry said it had “destroyed and intercepted” 59 Ukrainian drones overnight, mostly over the Rostov and Astrakhan regions. Also read: Zelensky visits troops near front line defending embattled eastern city of Pokrovsk (With inputs from agencies)

‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting

Pope Francis makes first public appearance on Sunday (Mar 23) from the hospital balcony before being discharged to bless the crowd since being admitted on February 14. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling against pneumonia for five weeks.
<h2>Pope addresses crowd</h2>
Pope Francis greeted and thanked the crowd from the hospital balcony in his first public appearance.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Thank you, everyone,&rdquo; he said into a microphone while sitting in a wheelchair, waving to hundreds gathered to see him and giving a thumbs-up sign.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-be-discharged-on-sunday-after-five-weeks-in-hospital-8880956">Pope Francis to be discharged on Sunday after five weeks in hospital</a>
&ldquo;I can see that woman with yellow flowers, well done,&rdquo; Francis said smiling to the joyed crowd in his brief appearance.&nbsp;
Pope Francis was discharged minutes after his appearance and was seen leaving the hospital in a car. He was seen wearing a cannula, a tube tucked into his nostrils to deliver oxygen. He has reached the Vatican to convalesce after the hospital stay.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-make-first-public-appearance-tomorrow-after-weeks-of-hospitalisation-8880141">Pope Francis to make first public appearance tomorrow after weeks of hospitalisation</a>
<h2>Pope&rsquo;s health</h2>
Francis has been battling pneumonia for five weeks. Although he appeared thinner and tired than usual, doctors confirmed sufficient improvement in his health and discharged him from the hospital.&nbsp;
Pope Francis has suffered several health problems in recent years. However, it was the first time that the Vatican said his condition was critical as he battled pneumonia.
Francis, who has been the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, now faces at least months of recovery as he returns to the Vatican.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-seen-celebrating-mass-as-vatican-releases-his-first-photograph-in-more-than-a-month-8860049">Pope Francis first photo since hospitalisation is out: Pontiff shown celebrating mass</a>
<h2>Pope on Israeli strikes on Gaza</h2>
Pope Francis has called for an &ldquo;immediate&rdquo; end to Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip. He also urged resuming dialogue for hostage release and a &ldquo;definitive ceasefire&rdquo;.
&ldquo;I am saddened by the resumption of the intense Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, with so many deaths and injuries,&rdquo; Francis wrote in his Angelus prayer published Sunday (Mar 23).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-marks-12-years-as-head-of-catholic-church-on-his-28th-day-in-hospital-8850882">Pope Francis marks 12 years as head of Catholic Church on his 28th day in hospital</a>
&ldquo;I ask that the weapons be silenced immediately and that the courage be found to resume dialogue so that all the hostages can be freed and a definitive ceasefire reached,&rdquo; said Francis.
&ldquo;The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is once again very serious and requires the urgent commitment of the conflicting parties and the international community,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Pope Francis makes first public appearance from hospital balcony to bless crowd since being admitted on February 14. The pontiff has been battling against pneumonia for five weeks.

Pope Francis makes first public appearance on Sunday (Mar 23) from the hospital balcony before being discharged to bless the crowd since being admitted on February 14. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling against pneumonia for five weeks. Pope addresses crowd Pope Francis greeted and thanked the crowd from the hospital balcony in his first public appearance. “Thank you, everyone,” he said into a microphone while sitting in a wheelchair, waving to hundreds gathered to see him and giving a thumbs-up sign. Also read | Pope Francis to be discharged on Sunday after five weeks in hospital “I can see that woman with yellow flowers, well done,” Francis said smiling to the joyed crowd in his brief appearance. Pope Francis was discharged minutes after his appearance and was seen leaving the hospital in a car. He was seen wearing a cannula, a tube tucked into his nostrils to deliver oxygen. He has reached the Vatican to convalesce after the hospital stay. Also read | Pope Francis to make first public appearance tomorrow after weeks of hospitalisation Pope’s health Francis has been battling pneumonia for five weeks. Although he appeared thinner and tired than usual, doctors confirmed sufficient improvement in his health and discharged him from the hospital. Pope Francis has suffered several health problems in recent years. However, it was the first time that the Vatican said his condition was critical as he battled pneumonia. Francis, who has been the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, now faces at least months of recovery as he returns to the Vatican. Also read | Pope Francis first photo since hospitalisation is out: Pontiff shown celebrating mass Pope on Israeli strikes on Gaza Pope Francis has called for an “immediate” end to Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip. He also urged resuming dialogue for hostage release and a “definitive ceasefire”. “I am saddened by the resumption of the intense Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, with so many deaths and injuries,” Francis wrote in his Angelus prayer published Sunday (Mar 23). Also read | Pope Francis marks 12 years as head of Catholic Church on his 28th day in hospital “I ask that the weapons be silenced immediately and that the courage be found to resume dialogue so that all the hostages can be freed and a definitive ceasefire reached,” said Francis. “The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is once again very serious and requires the urgent commitment of the conflicting parties and the international community,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis makes first public appearance in five weeks as he leaves hospital

DeepSeek shocked the global tech industry and stock markets on its arrival, signalling China&rsquo;s leap in the race for dominance in AI and computing abilities. Now, China&rsquo;s Army, the People&rsquo;s Liberation Army (PLA) is using DeepSeek AI for non-combat functions, while analysts expect that the AI model&rsquo;s use is imminent in combat support functions by the Chinese military, says an SCMP report.&nbsp;
As per reports in Chinese media, DeepSeek&rsquo;s open-source large language models (LLMs) are being used in PLA hospitals, People&rsquo;s Armed Police (PAP), and national defence mobilisation organs.
The PLA&rsquo;s Central Theatre Command announced earlier this month that it had authorised &lsquo;embedded deployment&rsquo; of DeepSeek&rsquo;s R1-70B LLM in its general hospital, where it would provide treatment plan suggestions to support doctors.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lifts-10-million-reward-for-information-on-taliban-senior-leader-sirajuddin-haqqani-8881660" rel="dofollow">US lifts $10 million reward for information on Taliban senior leader Sirajuddin Haqqani</a>
Similar deployment has been done in the elite PLA General Hospital in Beijing, also known as &ldquo;301 Hospital&rdquo;, where senior Chinese officials and military officers receive treatment and highly sensitive personal data is believed to be stored.
The hospital assured patient privacy and data security, stating that all data was stored and processed on local servers.
Since the meteoric rise of DeepSeek, Beijing is reportedly promoting AI integration across industries, and some government agencies are increasingly utilising DeepSeek models, including for anti-corruption efforts.
Some units of the paramilitary police force, PAP, under the Central Military Commission, which also directs the PLA, are using the app for daily training and psychological counselling as soldiers use DeepSeek to address anxiety and create an exercise plan. The development was shared by Hainan PAP&rsquo;s political work department in a post on its social media account.
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Sam Bresnick, a research fellow at Georgetown University&rsquo;s Centre for Security and Emerging Technology, who focuses on military AI applications, says the use of DeepSeek&rsquo;s models in settings like hospitals and soldier training programmes offers the PLA a controlled environment for experimentation, adds the SCMP report.
By initially deploying LLMs in non-combat scenarios, the PLA could be testing the technical and operational challenges before introducing DeepSeek in more sensitive, high-risk areas, Bresnick added. The PLA had been highlighting the utility of AI in military decision-making, and the emergence of an advanced model like DeepSeek&rsquo;s R1 might help in that area, he added. The PLA has been stressing on the use of high-end technology, particularly AI, to strengthen its combat capabilities to boost the effectiveness of drone swarm tactics, improve pilot training, and support in battlefield decision-making.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slimy-billionaire-elon-musk-blasted-for-buying-votes-in-wisconsin-court-election-as-trump-backs-brad-schimel-8880989" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for &lsquo;buying votes&rsquo; in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel</a>
Chinese state broadcaster CCTV had revealed in a programme back in 2023 that the PLA was testing ways to deploy hundreds of drones for swarm tactics with the help of AI and cloud computing.
A report in another Chinese newspaper, Guangming Daily, in February said that DeepSeek is playing an increasingly crucial role in the military and ushering in a new chapter in &lsquo;military intelligentisation&rsquo;.
DeepSeek is capable of processing massive amounts of battlefield data in real time, enabling precise situational awareness amid combat, it added.
Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military analyst, said DeepSeek&rsquo;s applications in non-combat operations so far show the PLA&rsquo;s commitment to fully utilising AI technology to enhance combat capabilities.
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&ldquo;It cannot be ruled out that DeepSeek has been used for other combat functions,&rdquo; Fu said, adding that &ldquo;the integration of AI into command systems has been under way for a considerable time&rdquo;.
Bresnick remarked that while most experts believed that the US had an edge over China in AI development, &ldquo;the ultimate advantage will belong to the nation that can integrate and deploy AI in military operations more effectively&rdquo;.

World: The PLA has been stressing on the use of high-end technology, particularly AI, to strengthen its combat capabilities to boost the effectiveness of drone swarm tactics, improve pilot training, and support in battlefield decision-making.

DeepSeek shocked the global tech industry and stock markets on its arrival, signalling China’s leap in the race for dominance in AI and computing abilities. Now, China’s Army, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is using DeepSeek AI for non-combat functions, while analysts expect that the AI model’s use is imminent in combat support functions by the Chinese military, says an SCMP report. As per reports in Chinese media, DeepSeek’s open-source large language models (LLMs) are being used in PLA hospitals, People’s Armed Police (PAP), and national defence mobilisation organs. The PLA’s Central Theatre Command announced earlier this month that it had authorised ‘embedded deployment’ of DeepSeek’s R1-70B LLM in its general hospital, where it would provide treatment plan suggestions to support doctors. Also Read | US lifts $10 million reward for information on Taliban senior leader Sirajuddin Haqqani Similar deployment has been done in the elite PLA General Hospital in Beijing, also known as “301 Hospital”, where senior Chinese officials and military officers receive treatment and highly sensitive personal data is believed to be stored. The hospital assured patient privacy and data security, stating that all data was stored and processed on local servers. Since the meteoric rise of DeepSeek, Beijing is reportedly promoting AI integration across industries, and some government agencies are increasingly utilising DeepSeek models, including for anti-corruption efforts. Some units of the paramilitary police force, PAP, under the Central Military Commission, which also directs the PLA, are using the app for daily training and psychological counselling as soldiers use DeepSeek to address anxiety and create an exercise plan. The development was shared by Hainan PAP’s political work department in a post on its social media account. Also Read | Indian father-daughter duo shot dead in US store; accused arrested Sam Bresnick, a research fellow at Georgetown University’s Centre for Security and Emerging Technology, who focuses on military AI applications, says the use of DeepSeek’s models in settings like hospitals and soldier training programmes offers the PLA a controlled environment for experimentation, adds the SCMP report. By initially deploying LLMs in non-combat scenarios, the PLA could be testing the technical and operational challenges before introducing DeepSeek in more sensitive, high-risk areas, Bresnick added. The PLA had been highlighting the utility of AI in military decision-making, and the emergence of an advanced model like DeepSeek’s R1 might help in that area, he added. The PLA has been stressing on the use of high-end technology, particularly AI, to strengthen its combat capabilities to boost the effectiveness of drone swarm tactics, improve pilot training, and support in battlefield decision-making. Also read: 'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for ‘buying votes’ in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel Chinese state broadcaster CCTV had revealed in a programme back in 2023 that the PLA was testing ways to deploy hundreds of drones for swarm tactics with the help of AI and cloud computing. A report in another Chinese newspaper, Guangming Daily, in February said that DeepSeek is playing an increasingly crucial role in the military and ushering in a new chapter in ‘military intelligentisation’. DeepSeek is capable of processing massive amounts of battlefield data in real time, enabling precise situational awareness amid combat, it added. Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military analyst, said DeepSeek’s applications in non-combat operations so far show the PLA’s commitment to fully utilising AI technology to enhance combat capabilities. Also read: Watch: Xiaomi CEO tosses watermelons to show off 'bulletproof' strength. Guess what happened “It cannot be ruled out that DeepSeek has been used for other combat functions,” Fu said, adding that “the integration of AI into command systems has been under way for a considerable time”. Bresnick remarked that while most experts believed that the US had an edge over China in AI development, “the ultimate advantage will belong to the nation that can integrate and deploy AI in military operations more effectively”.

China gearing up to deploy DeepSeek in military ops? Increasing use in non-combat support suggests so

Jessica Aber, the former US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), was found dead at her home in Alexandria on Saturday. The 43-year-old lawyer resigned after President Donald Trump took office in January. &nbsp;
<h2>Her legal career</h2>
Jessica Aber was nominated as US Attorney for EDVA by President Joe Biden in August 2021. She began her service in 2009 as an Assistant US Attorney, handling financial fraud, public corruption, violent crime, and child exploitation cases. &nbsp;
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She also served as counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division from 2015 to 2016 and later became Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division before her appointment as US Attorney. &nbsp;
<h2>Found dead at home</h2>
Police responded to a call about an unresponsive woman at 9:18 am in the 900 block of Beverley Drive. Officers found Aber deceased at the scene. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia will determine the cause of death. &nbsp;
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<h2>Colleagues pay tribute</h2>
The incumbent US Attorney for EDVA, Erik S. Siebert, said he was "heartbroken beyond words" over Aber&rsquo;s passing. &nbsp;
"She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor, and she is simply irreplaceable as a human being. We remain in awe of how much she accomplished in her all too brief time in this world. Her professionalism, grace, and legal acumen set the standard," Siebert said. &nbsp;
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An investigation into the circumstances of her death is underway, police said in a statement.
&nbsp;

Trending | World | Jessica Aber was nominated as US Attorney for EDVA by President Joe Biden in August 2021. She began her service in 2009 as an Assistant US Attorney, handling financial fraud, public corruption, violent crime, and child exploitation cases.

Jessica Aber, the former US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), was found dead at her home in Alexandria on Saturday. The 43-year-old lawyer resigned after President Donald Trump took office in January. Her legal career Jessica Aber was nominated as US Attorney for EDVA by President Joe Biden in August 2021. She began her service in 2009 as an Assistant US Attorney, handling financial fraud, public corruption, violent crime, and child exploitation cases. Also Read | 'Political nonsense': Elon Musk's father defends son, says he was 'friends' with Black servants during apartheid She also served as counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division from 2015 to 2016 and later became Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division before her appointment as US Attorney. Found dead at home Police responded to a call about an unresponsive woman at 9:18 am in the 900 block of Beverley Drive. Officers found Aber deceased at the scene. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia will determine the cause of death. Also Read | US lifts $10 million reward for information on Taliban senior leader Sirajuddin Haqqani Colleagues pay tribute The incumbent US Attorney for EDVA, Erik S. Siebert, said he was "heartbroken beyond words" over Aber’s passing. "She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor, and she is simply irreplaceable as a human being. We remain in awe of how much she accomplished in her all too brief time in this world. Her professionalism, grace, and legal acumen set the standard," Siebert said. Also Read | Indian-origin woman kills son on Disneyland trip amid custody battle An investigation into the circumstances of her death is underway, police said in a statement.

Who Was Jessica Aber? Biden-nominated former US Attorney found dead at home

An Istanbul court formally arrested the city's opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, in connection with a graft investigation. The development comes four days after his detention, which sparked widespread unrest in Turkey, the worst the country has seen in over a decade.&nbsp;
The mayor is one of the 100 individuals being probed for corruption charges related to public tenders and municipal employment.
He is also being investigated on "terror-related" allegations, with a court ruling expected soon.
"No despair! Keep fighting!" wrote the main opposition CHP party on X, denouncing it as "a political coup d'etat".
The development comes as voters cast their ballots in a CHP primary to name Imamoglu the party's candidate for the 2028 presidential race.&nbsp;
The long-planned vote was the event that triggered Imamoglu's arrest, who is widely viewed as a politician capable of challenging President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Imamoglu was detained in connection with two investigations. One alleging graft and the other "aiding a terror organisation".
<h2>Imamoglu calls allegations 'immoral and baseless'</h2>
Imamoglu, on Saturday (Mar 22), told police that the allegations against him were "immoral and baseless".
"The immoral and baseless accusations directed at me... are designed to undermine my standing and credibility," he said in a statement released by City Hall.
"This process has not only harmed Turkey's international reputation but has also shattered the public's sense of justice and trust in the economy," Imamoglu said.&nbsp;
"Those orchestrating this process will soon be held accountable before both divine and earthly courts."
<h2>Protesters take to streets</h2>
Imamoglu's detention triggered massive protests in Istanbul that have since spread to more than 55 of Turkey's 81 provinces.
"I invite our nation... to the ballot box. We are casting our vote to support President Ekrem: for democracy, justice and the future," said his wife, Dilek Kaya Imamoglu, on X, shortly after voting with her son Selim.
"We are not afraid and we will never give up."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's detention triggered massive protests in Istanbul that have since spread to more than 55 of Turkey's 81 provinces.

An Istanbul court formally arrested the city's opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, in connection with a graft investigation. The development comes four days after his detention, which sparked widespread unrest in Turkey, the worst the country has seen in over a decade. The mayor is one of the 100 individuals being probed for corruption charges related to public tenders and municipal employment. He is also being investigated on "terror-related" allegations, with a court ruling expected soon. "No despair! Keep fighting!" wrote the main opposition CHP party on X, denouncing it as "a political coup d'etat". The development comes as voters cast their ballots in a CHP primary to name Imamoglu the party's candidate for the 2028 presidential race. The long-planned vote was the event that triggered Imamoglu's arrest, who is widely viewed as a politician capable of challenging President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Imamoglu was detained in connection with two investigations. One alleging graft and the other "aiding a terror organisation". Imamoglu calls allegations 'immoral and baseless' Imamoglu, on Saturday (Mar 22), told police that the allegations against him were "immoral and baseless". "The immoral and baseless accusations directed at me... are designed to undermine my standing and credibility," he said in a statement released by City Hall. "This process has not only harmed Turkey's international reputation but has also shattered the public's sense of justice and trust in the economy," Imamoglu said. "Those orchestrating this process will soon be held accountable before both divine and earthly courts." Protesters take to streets Imamoglu's detention triggered massive protests in Istanbul that have since spread to more than 55 of Turkey's 81 provinces. "I invite our nation... to the ballot box. We are casting our vote to support President Ekrem: for democracy, justice and the future," said his wife, Dilek Kaya Imamoglu, on X, shortly after voting with her son Selim. "We are not afraid and we will never give up." (With inputs from agencies)

Istanbul court formally places mayor under arrest on graft charges

Elon Musk's father Errol Musk came in defence of his son after the Tesla CEO was accused of racism. Errol is a South African with British ancestry. Errol said his children were uninterested in "political nonsense" and that they had good relationship with their Black domestic helpers during the apartheid era in South Africa.&nbsp;
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"We had several black servants who were their friends," the 79-year-old told the Washington Post responding to Musk's opposition to workplace diversity and equity programs (DEI).&nbsp;
Errol further talked about the South Africa during his children's upbringing as a "well-run, law-abiding country with virtually no crime at all."&nbsp;
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Talking about importing emeralds from an unregistered Zambian mine during the apartheid era, Errol said the entire operation "helped me and my two boys sustain ourselves during the collapse of Apartheid".&nbsp;
Although in 2021, Elon Musk distanced himself from the claim of his family's involvement with the mine as he said in a post on the social media platform X that he came to Canada in 1989 with only $2,500 Canadian dollars, took on $100,000 in student debt, and independently built his first business using his personal computer.
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<h2>'Bubble of entitlement'</h2>
Critics argue that Elon Musk's privileged background protected him from the realities of apartheid. Rudolph Pienaar, a former schoolmate, described Elon's childhood as a "bubble of entitlement," telling The Washington Post, "I am not sure if Elon can conceive of systematic discrimination and struggle because that's not his experience. His life now in some ways is how it was under apartheid&mdash;rich and entitled with the entire society built to sustain him and his ilk."
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(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | Elon Musk's father Errol Musk came in defence of his son after the Tesla CEO was accused of racism. Errol himself is a South African with British ancestry.

Elon Musk's father Errol Musk came in defence of his son after the Tesla CEO was accused of racism. Errol is a South African with British ancestry. Errol said his children were uninterested in "political nonsense" and that they had good relationship with their Black domestic helpers during the apartheid era in South Africa. Also read: 'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for ‘buying votes’ in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel "We had several black servants who were their friends," the 79-year-old told the Washington Post responding to Musk's opposition to workplace diversity and equity programs (DEI). Errol further talked about the South Africa during his children's upbringing as a "well-run, law-abiding country with virtually no crime at all." Also read: Watch: Xiaomi CEO tosses watermelons to show off 'bulletproof' strength. Guess what happened Talking about importing emeralds from an unregistered Zambian mine during the apartheid era, Errol said the entire operation "helped me and my two boys sustain ourselves during the collapse of Apartheid". Although in 2021, Elon Musk distanced himself from the claim of his family's involvement with the mine as he said in a post on the social media platform X that he came to Canada in 1989 with only $2,500 Canadian dollars, took on $100,000 in student debt, and independently built his first business using his personal computer. Also read: Tesla trade-ins surge amidst backlash against Elon Musk 'Bubble of entitlement' Critics argue that Elon Musk's privileged background protected him from the realities of apartheid. Rudolph Pienaar, a former schoolmate, described Elon's childhood as a "bubble of entitlement," telling The Washington Post, "I am not sure if Elon can conceive of systematic discrimination and struggle because that's not his experience. His life now in some ways is how it was under apartheid—rich and entitled with the entire society built to sustain him and his ilk." Also read: Elon Musk's X sues Modi govt over alleged censorship, says India 'illegally blocking online content' (With inputs from agencies)

'Political nonsense': Elon Musk's father defends son, says he was 'friends' with Black servants during apartheid

The United States has withdrawn a $10 million reward offer for information leading to the arrest of Sirajuddin Haqqani, a senior Taliban leader, said an Afghan interior ministry spokesperson on Saturday (Mar 22).
Haqqani was "believed to have coordinated and participated in cross-border attacks against the United States and coalition forces in Afghanistan", according to the FBI's website.&nbsp;
The move reportedly indicates a deal between the Donald Trump administration and Haqqanis.
As part of the Rewards for Justice program, the US State Department had offered rewards of $10 million, $5 million, and $5 million, respectively for information on senior Taliban leaders.&nbsp;
The rewards were aimed at key leaders of the Haqqani Network, a group designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the US.
<h2>'Haqqani&rsquo;s role important in shaping Afghanistan's relationship with America'</h2>
Haqqani plays a significant role in Afghanistan's relationship with America, CNN reported citing sources.
&ldquo;Sirajuddin Haqqani&rsquo;s role in the Afghan government is very important in shaping the country&rsquo;s relationship with America," said a source, according to CNN. &ldquo;This highlights the dynamics between US policy and the Taliban administration."
Haqqani allegedly was involved in several high-profile attacks. One of them was the 2008 assault on the Serena Hotel in Kabul, which resulted in the deaths of six people, including a US citizen.
&ldquo;A possible reason for this (the US move) is that he (Haqqani) has facilitated the release of American citizens after a discussion with Zalmay Khalilzad (who was the US special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation from September 2018 to October 2021)," a source said, according to CNN.
<h2>US citizen released from detention</h2>
This comes after Taliban, on Thursday (Mar 20), released US citizen George Glezmann following over two years in detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced.
"Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra," Rubio said in a statement.
"George's release is a positive and constructive step. &nbsp;It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Haqqani allegedly was involved in several high-profile attacks. One of them was the 2008 assault on the Serena Hotel in Kabul, which resulted in the deaths of six people, including a US citizen.

The United States has withdrawn a $10 million reward offer for information leading to the arrest of Sirajuddin Haqqani, a senior Taliban leader, said an Afghan interior ministry spokesperson on Saturday (Mar 22). Haqqani was "believed to have coordinated and participated in cross-border attacks against the United States and coalition forces in Afghanistan", according to the FBI's website. The move reportedly indicates a deal between the Donald Trump administration and Haqqanis. As part of the Rewards for Justice program, the US State Department had offered rewards of $10 million, $5 million, and $5 million, respectively for information on senior Taliban leaders. The rewards were aimed at key leaders of the Haqqani Network, a group designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the US. 'Haqqani’s role important in shaping Afghanistan's relationship with America' Haqqani plays a significant role in Afghanistan's relationship with America, CNN reported citing sources. “Sirajuddin Haqqani’s role in the Afghan government is very important in shaping the country’s relationship with America," said a source, according to CNN. “This highlights the dynamics between US policy and the Taliban administration." Haqqani allegedly was involved in several high-profile attacks. One of them was the 2008 assault on the Serena Hotel in Kabul, which resulted in the deaths of six people, including a US citizen. “A possible reason for this (the US move) is that he (Haqqani) has facilitated the release of American citizens after a discussion with Zalmay Khalilzad (who was the US special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation from September 2018 to October 2021)," a source said, according to CNN. US citizen released from detention This comes after Taliban, on Thursday (Mar 20), released US citizen George Glezmann following over two years in detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced. "Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra," Rubio said in a statement. "George's release is a positive and constructive step. It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

US lifts $10 million reward for information on Taliban senior leader Sirajuddin Haqqani

The Supreme Court released a video on Saturday (Mar 23), showing burnt cash piles allegedly found at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma.&nbsp;The video was shared by the Commissioner of Police with the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. It appears to depict sacks containing cash currencies, some of which are burnt.
A violent altercation at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, late Friday night claimed the lives of three and wounded 15 others.&nbsp;The incident occurred around 10 pm local time, when an unauthorized car show, which had attracted a crowd of approximately 200 people, suddenly turned violent.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) began their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign with a commanding seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-shares-footage-of-burnt-cash-at-justice-yashwant-varmas-place-video-8881373">SC shares footage of burnt cash at Justice Yashwant Varma's place, judge claims 'conspiracy'- VIDEO</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/23/OknwuuaiQuPek6JLoOZf.jpg" alt=" SC Shares Footage of Burnt Cash, HC CJ Demands Thorough Probe Amid Allegations of Conspiracy Photograph: (PTI) ">
The Supreme Court released a video on Saturday (Mar 23), showing burnt cash piles allegedly found at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma.
<a href="Mass%20shooting%20at%20New%20Mexico's%20Las%20Cruces%20park%20kills%203,%20injures%2015">Mass shooting at New Mexico's Las Cruces park kills 3, injures 15</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/23/nMheZjEBi5YmDZmcP21w.jpg" alt=" Mass shooting at New Mexico's Las Cruces park kills 3, injures 15 Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
A violent altercation at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, late Friday night claimed the lives of three and wounded 15 others.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-learning-from-the-best-rcb-captain-applauds-virat-kohlis-unbeaten-fifty-in-curtain-raiser-8881337">IPL 2025: 'Learning from the best', RCB captain applauds Virat Kohli&rsquo;s unbeaten fifty in curtain-raiser</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/23/O8JZhMExiuGUdPBfy4os.png" alt=" Virat Kohli celebrates after scoring half-century Photograph: (AFP) ">
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) began their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Indian Premier League</a>&nbsp;(IPL) 2025 campaign with a commanding seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/saturns-rings-will-disappear-this-weekend-wont-happen-again-until-2038-8881397">Saturn&rsquo;s rings will &lsquo;disappear&rsquo; this weekend &ndash; won&rsquo;t happen again until 2038!</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/23/ftzUDiGrmxC8sUpjOVrD.png" alt=" Saturn&rsquo;s iconic rings to 'disappear' this weekend &ndash; here&rsquo;s why! Photograph: (Canva) ">
Starting this weekend, Saturn's iconic rings will "disappear" for a few days from the vantage point of Earth for the first time since 2009.
WATCH | Sudan Civil war: Sudan army takes central bank after palace recapture
<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/2303_WAR_830PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2303_WAR_830PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=141&amp;tags=sudan, rsf, sudan army, presidential palace, world news, wion" title="Sudan Civil war: Sudan army takes central bank after palace recapture" id="PL_iframe_block-m8l4pr00-f3t8hq8u-gg3e3pc1"></iframe>
&nbsp;

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

The Supreme Court released a video on Saturday (Mar 23), showing burnt cash piles allegedly found at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma. The video was shared by the Commissioner of Police with the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. It appears to depict sacks containing cash currencies, some of which are burnt. A violent altercation at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, late Friday night claimed the lives of three and wounded 15 others. The incident occurred around 10 pm local time, when an unauthorized car show, which had attracted a crowd of approximately 200 people, suddenly turned violent. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) began their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign with a commanding seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens. Click on the headlines to read more SC shares footage of burnt cash at Justice Yashwant Varma's place, judge claims 'conspiracy'- VIDEO The Supreme Court released a video on Saturday (Mar 23), showing burnt cash piles allegedly found at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma. Mass shooting at New Mexico's Las Cruces park kills 3, injures 15 A violent altercation at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, late Friday night claimed the lives of three and wounded 15 others. IPL 2025: 'Learning from the best', RCB captain applauds Virat Kohli’s unbeaten fifty in curtain-raiser Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) began their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign with a commanding seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens. Saturn’s rings will ‘disappear’ this weekend – won’t happen again until 2038! Starting this weekend, Saturn's iconic rings will "disappear" for a few days from the vantage point of Earth for the first time since 2009. WATCH | Sudan Civil war: Sudan army takes central bank after palace recapture

Morning news brief: SC shares video of burnt cash at judge Varma's place; Mass shooting in New Mexico, and more

At least three firefighters and a public servant have been killed in a wildfire in South Korea, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency in southeastern regions, authorities said on Saturday.
The fire, which began in Sancheong county on Friday afternoon, prompted the deployment of 304 personnel, along with 20 helicopters, according to South Korea's Interior Ministry.
More than 200 residents in 15 southern villages have been told to evacuate, it added.
"Four people -- three firefighters and one public servant -- have been confirmed to be dead," a fire agency official told AFP.
Wildfires occurred in several other areas across the country, with 16 instances reported on Saturday alone, according to the Korea Forest Service.
The Interior Ministry later declared a state of emergency in Ulsan and North and South Gyeongsang provinces, due to "the extensive damage caused by simultaneous wildfires across the country".
The forest agency has issued "severe" fire warnings, its highest level, in 12 locations, including North and South Gyeongsang provinces, Busan and Daejeon.
Sancheong, in South Gyeongsang province, is about 250 kilometres (155 miles) southeast of Seoul.
Sections of the highways in the region have been closed as a safety measure, according to local reports.
Choi Sang-mok, South Korea's acting president, told relevant agencies to "mobilise all available equipment and personnel to quickly extinguish" the fire, his office said.
Some types of extreme weather have a well-established link with climate change, such as heatwaves or heavy rainfall.
Other phenomena such as forest fires, droughts, snowstorms and tropical storms can result from a combination of complex factors.
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WORLD | The fire, which began in Sancheong county on Friday afternoon, prompted the deployment of 304 personnel, along with 20 helicopters, according to South Korea's Interior Ministry.

At least three firefighters and a public servant have been killed in a wildfire in South Korea, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency in southeastern regions, authorities said on Saturday. The fire, which began in Sancheong county on Friday afternoon, prompted the deployment of 304 personnel, along with 20 helicopters, according to South Korea's Interior Ministry. More than 200 residents in 15 southern villages have been told to evacuate, it added. "Four people -- three firefighters and one public servant -- have been confirmed to be dead," a fire agency official told AFP. Wildfires occurred in several other areas across the country, with 16 instances reported on Saturday alone, according to the Korea Forest Service. The Interior Ministry later declared a state of emergency in Ulsan and North and South Gyeongsang provinces, due to "the extensive damage caused by simultaneous wildfires across the country". The forest agency has issued "severe" fire warnings, its highest level, in 12 locations, including North and South Gyeongsang provinces, Busan and Daejeon. Sancheong, in South Gyeongsang province, is about 250 kilometres (155 miles) southeast of Seoul. Sections of the highways in the region have been closed as a safety measure, according to local reports. Choi Sang-mok, South Korea's acting president, told relevant agencies to "mobilise all available equipment and personnel to quickly extinguish" the fire, his office said. Some types of extreme weather have a well-established link with climate change, such as heatwaves or heavy rainfall. Other phenomena such as forest fires, droughts, snowstorms and tropical storms can result from a combination of complex factors. 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.

Three firefighters, one civilian killed in South Korea wildfire

Niger's government announced Friday three days of mourning after 44 civilians were killed in the country's southwest by "terrorists" belonging to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara group.
The victims were killed in a "savage" attack on a mosque in the Fambita quarter of the rural town of Kokorou, the interior ministry said in a statement broadcast on state television.
It said another 13 people were wounded.
The attack occurred early in the afternoon as people were attending a prayer service at the mosque, the ministry statement said.
"The heavily armed terrorists surrounded the mosque to carry out their massacre with unusual cruelty," it said, adding that the attackers also set fire to a local market and homes.
The ministry vowed to hunt down the perpetrators and put them on trial.
The attack occurred in an area close to the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali -- a region in which jihadists affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda have been active for years.
The military of Niger's junta-run government frequently fights jihadists in the region, and civilians are often victims in the violence.
Since July 2023, at least 2,400 people have been killed in Niger, according to the database of the ACLED, a non-governmental organisation that gives armed conflict location and event data.
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WORLD | The attack occurred in an area close to the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali -- a region in which jihadists affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda have been active for years.

Niger's government announced Friday three days of mourning after 44 civilians were killed in the country's southwest by "terrorists" belonging to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara group. The victims were killed in a "savage" attack on a mosque in the Fambita quarter of the rural town of Kokorou, the interior ministry said in a statement broadcast on state television. It said another 13 people were wounded. The attack occurred early in the afternoon as people were attending a prayer service at the mosque, the ministry statement said. "The heavily armed terrorists surrounded the mosque to carry out their massacre with unusual cruelty," it said, adding that the attackers also set fire to a local market and homes. The ministry vowed to hunt down the perpetrators and put them on trial. The attack occurred in an area close to the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali -- a region in which jihadists affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda have been active for years. The military of Niger's junta-run government frequently fights jihadists in the region, and civilians are often victims in the violence. Since July 2023, at least 2,400 people have been killed in Niger, according to the database of the ACLED, a non-governmental organisation that gives armed conflict location and event data. 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.

Niger declares 3 days of mourning after 'savage' attack on mosque kills 44, injures 13

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