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Pope Francis recorded and released an audio message on Thursday thanking those who have been praying for his recovery, his voice breathless as he nears three weeks in hospital with pneumonia.
"I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square, I accompany you from here," Francis said in a message broadcast in St Peter's Square.
"May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you," he said, taking laboured breaths as he spoke in his native Spanish, with some words fading away into nothing.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7yfkar3-s050rt6p-q062nvhc">
Pope Francis releases an audio message to thank everyone who has been praying for his health. The audio clip was broadcast in St. Peter&rsquo;s Square on Thursday, March 6, as Cardinal &Aacute;ngel Fern&aacute;ndez Artime led the nightly Rosary prayer.<a href="https://t.co/owgis4dsGX">https://t.co/owgis4dsGX</a> <a href="https://t.co/bi7nTAzDRs">pic.twitter.com/bi7nTAzDRs</a>
&mdash; Vatican News (@VaticanNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/VaticanNews/status/1897759878246011166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
It was the first time the world has heard Francis's voice since the 88-year-old was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14.
Pilgrims have been gathering in St Peter's Square every evening to pray for the pope's recovery. The hundreds of people there on Thursday applauded when they heard his message.
The Vatican said earlier Thursday that the Argentine, head of the worldwide Catholic Church since 2013, is in a "stable" condition.
There had been no repeat of Monday's respiratory failure, it said, and the pope's blood work "remained stable".
Francis continued with his breathing exercises and physiotherapy, did not have a fever, and managed to do a bit of work in both the morning and afternoon, it said.
The Vatican has been providing twice daily updates on the pope's health, a morning one on how the night went, and an evening medical bulletin.
But on Thursday it said that "in view of the stability of the clinical picture, the next medical bulletin will be released on Saturday".
Nonetheless, "the doctors are still maintaining a reserved prognosis", it said, meaning they will not say how they expect his condition to evolve.
For the last three nights Francis -- who had part of a lung removed as a young man -- has worn an oxygen mask to help him sleep.
On Thursday morning, as on the previous day, he switched to a less onerous nasal cannula -- a plastic tube tucking into his nostrils -- which provides high-flow oxygen, a Vatican source said.
Francis missed the formal Ash Wednesday celebrations in Rome, marking the start of Lent, but took part in a blessing in his private suite on the 10th floor of the Gemelli.
The leader of the world's almost 1.4 billion Catholics has not been seen in public since his hospitalisation -- the longest of his papacy.
Nor has the Vatican issued any photos, although Francis has published several texts.
'Thoughts and prayers'
During previous hospitalisations, the pope appeared on the Gemelli balcony for his weekly Angelus prayer at noon on Sundays.
But he has missed the last three, and no announcement has yet been made about whether he will make an appearance this weekend.
The Vatican confirmed Thursday that senior cardinal Michael Czerny would stand in for the pope and lead the mass this weekend marking the first Sunday of Lent.
The mass was also part of celebrations for the Jubilee 2025, a Holy Year led by the pope, dedicated this weekend to volunteers.
The Holy See said Thursday the event "takes on an even deeper meaning, as the thoughts and prayers of all the brothers and sisters turn to the Holy Father and the experience he is going through".
Pilgrims will pray in front of the hospital on Saturday, it said, as well-wishers have done since Francis was admitted.
The pope was initially diagnosed with bronchitis but it developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking alarm across the globe.
On February 22, he suffered a "prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis" and on February 28 had "an isolated crisis of bronchospasm" -- a tightening of the muscles that line the airways in the lungs.
On Monday, Francis "experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm", according to the Vatican.
Francis's health has regularly led to speculation, particularly among his critics, as to whether he could resign like his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Pope Francis, hospitalized with pneumonia, shared a heartfelt audio message from Rome, thanking global supporters for their prayers and expressing his deep gratitude.

Pope Francis recorded and released an audio message on Thursday thanking those who have been praying for his recovery, his voice breathless as he nears three weeks in hospital with pneumonia. "I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square, I accompany you from here," Francis said in a message broadcast in St Peter's Square. "May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you," he said, taking laboured breaths as he spoke in his native Spanish, with some words fading away into nothing. Pope Francis releases an audio message to thank everyone who has been praying for his health. The audio clip was broadcast in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday, March 6, as Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime led the nightly Rosary prayer.https://t.co/owgis4dsGX pic.twitter.com/bi7nTAzDRs — Vatican News (@VaticanNews) March 6, 2025 It was the first time the world has heard Francis's voice since the 88-year-old was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14. Pilgrims have been gathering in St Peter's Square every evening to pray for the pope's recovery. The hundreds of people there on Thursday applauded when they heard his message. The Vatican said earlier Thursday that the Argentine, head of the worldwide Catholic Church since 2013, is in a "stable" condition. There had been no repeat of Monday's respiratory failure, it said, and the pope's blood work "remained stable". Francis continued with his breathing exercises and physiotherapy, did not have a fever, and managed to do a bit of work in both the morning and afternoon, it said. The Vatican has been providing twice daily updates on the pope's health, a morning one on how the night went, and an evening medical bulletin. But on Thursday it said that "in view of the stability of the clinical picture, the next medical bulletin will be released on Saturday". Nonetheless, "the doctors are still maintaining a reserved prognosis", it said, meaning they will not say how they expect his condition to evolve. For the last three nights Francis -- who had part of a lung removed as a young man -- has worn an oxygen mask to help him sleep. On Thursday morning, as on the previous day, he switched to a less onerous nasal cannula -- a plastic tube tucking into his nostrils -- which provides high-flow oxygen, a Vatican source said. Francis missed the formal Ash Wednesday celebrations in Rome, marking the start of Lent, but took part in a blessing in his private suite on the 10th floor of the Gemelli. The leader of the world's almost 1.4 billion Catholics has not been seen in public since his hospitalisation -- the longest of his papacy. Nor has the Vatican issued any photos, although Francis has published several texts. 'Thoughts and prayers' During previous hospitalisations, the pope appeared on the Gemelli balcony for his weekly Angelus prayer at noon on Sundays. But he has missed the last three, and no announcement has yet been made about whether he will make an appearance this weekend. The Vatican confirmed Thursday that senior cardinal Michael Czerny would stand in for the pope and lead the mass this weekend marking the first Sunday of Lent. The mass was also part of celebrations for the Jubilee 2025, a Holy Year led by the pope, dedicated this weekend to volunteers. The Holy See said Thursday the event "takes on an even deeper meaning, as the thoughts and prayers of all the brothers and sisters turn to the Holy Father and the experience he is going through". Pilgrims will pray in front of the hospital on Saturday, it said, as well-wishers have done since Francis was admitted. The pope was initially diagnosed with bronchitis but it developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking alarm across the globe. On February 22, he suffered a "prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis" and on February 28 had "an isolated crisis of bronchospasm" -- a tightening of the muscles that line the airways in the lungs. On Monday, Francis "experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm", according to the Vatican. Francis's health has regularly led to speculation, particularly among his critics, as to whether he could resign like his predecessor, Benedict XVI. 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.

Pope Francis releases audio message thanking supporters from hospital as he battles pneumonia

US President Donald Trump said that "maybe" the two NASA astronauts stuck in space - Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore - "will love each other" and he hopes "they will like each other".&nbsp;
During his address in the Oval Office, the US President promised to bring back the two astronauts back to Earth after nine months at the International Space Station (ISS).
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&ldquo;We love you and we're coming up to get you," Trump said. He also said that when the two will come back, he would be ready to greet them.&nbsp;
"You shouldn&rsquo;t have been up there so long. The most incompetent president in our history has allowed that to happen to you, but this president won&rsquo;t let it happen," Trump said, taking a dig at the previous Democratic administration of Joe Biden.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7yfezmv-9nry4xsi-50c6s8ze">
Trump on two astronauts stuck in space: "Maybe they'll love each other, I don't know. But they've been left up there. Think of it. And I see the woman with the wild hair. Good solid head of hair she's got. There's no kidding. There's no games with her hair." <a href="https://t.co/6a2JHVXFNO">pic.twitter.com/6a2JHVXFNO</a>
&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1897757240230121907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Woman with the 'wild hair'&nbsp;</h2>
The US President then went on to praise Williams' hair saying, "I see the woman with the wild hair, good, solid hair she&rsquo;s got. There&rsquo;s no kidding, there&rsquo;s no games with her hair".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-continue-trade-war-launched-by-us-for-foreseeable-future-justin-trudeau-8829708">Trudeau says Canada-US trade war 'will continue for foreseeable future'; Trump pauses some tariffs</a>
<h2>'I authorised Elon a week ago'</h2>
Trump further indicated that Elon Musk's SpaceX would be involved in the mission to bring Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore back home.
&ldquo;I authorised Elon a week ago. I said, &lsquo;You know, we have two people up there that Biden and Kamala (Harris) left up there&rsquo;. And he knows it very well. I said, &lsquo;Are you equipped to get them?&rsquo; He said, &lsquo;Yeah'," Trump said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-negotiations-with-hamas-helping-israel-because-were-talking-about-israeli-hostages-8829353">Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: "We&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages'</a>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Trending | SCIENCE & TECH | World | During his address in the Oval Office, the US President promised to bring back the two astronauts back to Earth after nine months at the International Space Station (ISS).

US President Donald Trump said that "maybe" the two NASA astronauts stuck in space - Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore - "will love each other" and he hopes "they will like each other". During his address in the Oval Office, the US President promised to bring back the two astronauts back to Earth after nine months at the International Space Station (ISS). Also read: French senator paints grim picture of US under Trump, calls him 'dictator' and Musk a 'jester high on ketamine' “We love you and we're coming up to get you," Trump said. He also said that when the two will come back, he would be ready to greet them. "You shouldn’t have been up there so long. The most incompetent president in our history has allowed that to happen to you, but this president won’t let it happen," Trump said, taking a dig at the previous Democratic administration of Joe Biden. Trump on two astronauts stuck in space: "Maybe they'll love each other, I don't know. But they've been left up there. Think of it. And I see the woman with the wild hair. Good solid head of hair she's got. There's no kidding. There's no games with her hair." pic.twitter.com/6a2JHVXFNO — Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 6, 2025 Also read: Saudi’s $1 trillion investment pledge lures Donald Trump Woman with the 'wild hair' The US President then went on to praise Williams' hair saying, "I see the woman with the wild hair, good, solid hair she’s got. There’s no kidding, there’s no games with her hair". Also read: Trudeau says Canada-US trade war 'will continue for foreseeable future'; Trump pauses some tariffs 'I authorised Elon a week ago' Trump further indicated that Elon Musk's SpaceX would be involved in the mission to bring Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore back home. “I authorised Elon a week ago. I said, ‘You know, we have two people up there that Biden and Kamala (Harris) left up there’. And he knows it very well. I said, ‘Are you equipped to get them?’ He said, ‘Yeah'," Trump said. Also read: Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: "We’re talking about Israeli hostages'

Trump calls Sunita Williams 'woman with wild hair', hopes she and Butch Wilmore 'love each other'

A female passenger on board a Southwest Airlines flight went berserk as the plane taxied out, demanding to get off. She stripped naked and banged on the cockpit door, before rubbing against a flight attendant. The plane had to ultimately return to the gate where the woman was deboarded by law enforcement officials and taken to the doctors.
The incident occurred on March 3 on Southwest Airlines flight 733 flying from Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona. The woman got up and approached the front of the cabin, where she started banging on different areas of the plane. She demanded the plane be stopped as she wanted to get off, declaring herself to be bipolar.
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Witnesses said she started screaming and jumping up and down. But when the plane didn't stop, the woman started stripping, removing all her clothes. She walked up and down the aisle in that condition, as horrified passengers, including children, sat in their seats. One of the passengers told ABC10 that it was "evident that she was having a mental breakdown".
She even tried to enter the cockpit. Her tirade continued for about 25 minutes, after which the pilot turned the plane around and took it back to the gate.
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Officials boarded the plane, covered the woman with a blanket and took her for a health assessment.&nbsp;
The incident led the plane to be delayed by over an hour.&nbsp;
<h2>Southwest Airlines responds to striptease on plane</h2>
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve reached out to Customers to apologize for the delay and appreciate their patience as our Teams worked to get them to their destinations as quickly as possible,&rdquo; Southwest Airlines officials said. The airline gave $50 vouchers to the passengers as compensation.
No charges have been filed against the woman.

World Trending - A woman declared she was bipolar and wanted to get off the plane. when her pleas went unheard, she took off all her clothes and paraded in the aisle.

A female passenger on board a Southwest Airlines flight went berserk as the plane taxied out, demanding to get off. She stripped naked and banged on the cockpit door, before rubbing against a flight attendant. The plane had to ultimately return to the gate where the woman was deboarded by law enforcement officials and taken to the doctors. The incident occurred on March 3 on Southwest Airlines flight 733 flying from Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona. The woman got up and approached the front of the cabin, where she started banging on different areas of the plane. She demanded the plane be stopped as she wanted to get off, declaring herself to be bipolar. Also Read: Passengers overpower teen trying to board plane in Australia with shotgun Witnesses said she started screaming and jumping up and down. But when the plane didn't stop, the woman started stripping, removing all her clothes. She walked up and down the aisle in that condition, as horrified passengers, including children, sat in their seats. One of the passengers told ABC10 that it was "evident that she was having a mental breakdown". She even tried to enter the cockpit. Her tirade continued for about 25 minutes, after which the pilot turned the plane around and took it back to the gate. Also Read: 'Mind-reading spy' claims he saw people 'dying' on the red planet Officials boarded the plane, covered the woman with a blanket and took her for a health assessment. The incident led the plane to be delayed by over an hour. Southwest Airlines responds to striptease on plane “We’ve reached out to Customers to apologize for the delay and appreciate their patience as our Teams worked to get them to their destinations as quickly as possible,” Southwest Airlines officials said. The airline gave $50 vouchers to the passengers as compensation. No charges have been filed against the woman.

Woman strips naked on plane, parades down the aisle demanding to get off

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Thursday (March 6) that he will continue his trade war with the US for the "foreseeable future".&nbsp;
Just a day after the "colourful" call with the US President Donald Trump, Trudeau said Canada will not back down from the trade war started by Trump.&nbsp;
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He said that Canada, however, would continue engaging with senior Trump administration officials about tariffs that are to be imposed on Canadian goods by the US.&nbsp;
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"I can confirm that we will continue to be in a trade war that was launched by the United States for the foreseeable future," Trudeau said in a media briefing.&nbsp;
"We will not be backing down from our response tariffs until such a time as the unjustified American tariffs on Canadian goods are lifted," he added.&nbsp;
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"It was a colorful call. It was also a very substantive call," Trudeau said on a 50-minute call with Trump on Wednesday (March 5). He said the two sides are in talks but has nothing to announce yet.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump pauses tariffs on some Canadian goods&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, in an unexpected move, Donald Trump suspended the 25 per cent tariffs he imposed this week on most goods from Canada and Mexico on Thursday (March 6).
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The exemptions will expire on April 2 when Trump has threatened to impose a global regime of reciprocal tariffs on all US trading partners, including Canada and Mexico.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

WORLD | Truedeau said Canada would continue engaging with the senior Trump administration officials about tariffs that are to be imposed on Canadian goods by the US.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Thursday (March 6) that he will continue his trade war with the US for the "foreseeable future". Just a day after the "colourful" call with the US President Donald Trump, Trudeau said Canada will not back down from the trade war started by Trump. Also read: Trump accuses Trudeau of causing tariff problem, says he is exploiting it 'to stay in power' He said that Canada, however, would continue engaging with senior Trump administration officials about tariffs that are to be imposed on Canadian goods by the US. Also read: ‘Explain to Governor Trudeau’: Trump threatens even more tariffs after Canada strikes back "I can confirm that we will continue to be in a trade war that was launched by the United States for the foreseeable future," Trudeau said in a media briefing. "We will not be backing down from our response tariffs until such a time as the unjustified American tariffs on Canadian goods are lifted," he added. Also read: Donald Trump takes yet another shot at Justin Trudeau, calls him 'Governor' in post on Macron meeting "It was a colorful call. It was also a very substantive call," Trudeau said on a 50-minute call with Trump on Wednesday (March 5). He said the two sides are in talks but has nothing to announce yet. Trump pauses tariffs on some Canadian goods Meanwhile, in an unexpected move, Donald Trump suspended the 25 per cent tariffs he imposed this week on most goods from Canada and Mexico on Thursday (March 6). Also read: What the 'puck'? Trudeau, in an apparent dig at Trump, celebrates Canada's 3-2 win over US, says 'You can’t take our country' The exemptions will expire on April 2 when Trump has threatened to impose a global regime of reciprocal tariffs on all US trading partners, including Canada and Mexico.

Trudeau says Canada-US trade war 'will continue for foreseeable future'; Trump pauses some tariffs

A mysterious warship with no one aboard was recently seen in waters off of Washington state, being pushed by a tug boat. While it made onlookers curious, its identity has now been confirmed. The slender ship is a new medium-sized uncrewed surface vessel (USV) that has been designed to operate without any humans on board. The naval vessel has been named USX-1 Defiant and was seen going through the Saratoga Passage in Puget Sound, only a few miles from the US Navy&rsquo;s Naval Air Station Whidby Island, according to The War Zone.
The warship is like a drone and has been designed as part of the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency&rsquo;s (DARPA) No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) programme. Private maritime and operations company Serco is the primary contractor for the Defiant.
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The War Zone reported that construction of the 180ft, 240-tonne unmanned vessel was completed last month after five years. Residents in Washington state were the first to spot the warship as it was being pushed by a tug boat through the Saratoga Passage.
The Defiant has been developed as a cost-effective unmanned service vessel for the US Navy. Unmanned vessels are typically used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and to glean intelligence.
<h2>The Defiant will undergo in-water testing</h2>
According to DARPA, the Defiant will &ldquo;undergo extensive in-water testing, both dockside and at sea&rdquo; and will later depart for a multi-month at-sea demonstration.
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It will act as a testing model to learn how long such a vessel can operate autonomously without humans on board.
<h2>Part of US Navy&rsquo;s "Hellscape" programme</h2>
American policymakers and combat commands have been calling for cost-effective USVs to help Taiwan. Notably, such drone ships can be used in the Taiwan Strait to protect the island nation against Chinese aggression. The US Navy&rsquo;s "Hellscape" programme aims to create a battlefield with tens of thousands of unmanned ships, aircraft, and submarines across the West Pacific. Details of the same were given out by the head of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel Paparo last summer.
&ldquo;By removing the human element from all ship design considerations, the program intends to demonstrate significant advantages, to include: size, cost, at-sea reliability, greater hydrodynamic efficiency, survivability to sea-state, and survivability to adversary actions through stealth considerations and tampering resistance," DARPA says on its website.
Photos of the Defiant show the warship still under covers, as it is partially covered in a tarp. (With inputs from agencies)

World Trending - Residents in Washington state were the first to spot the warship as it was being pushed by a tug boat through the Saratoga Passage.

A mysterious warship with no one aboard was recently seen in waters off of Washington state, being pushed by a tug boat. While it made onlookers curious, its identity has now been confirmed. The slender ship is a new medium-sized uncrewed surface vessel (USV) that has been designed to operate without any humans on board. The naval vessel has been named USX-1 Defiant and was seen going through the Saratoga Passage in Puget Sound, only a few miles from the US Navy’s Naval Air Station Whidby Island, according to The War Zone. The warship is like a drone and has been designed as part of the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) programme. Private maritime and operations company Serco is the primary contractor for the Defiant. Also Read: China will work to 'firmly advance' reunification with Taiwan, says Premier Li Qiang The War Zone reported that construction of the 180ft, 240-tonne unmanned vessel was completed last month after five years. Residents in Washington state were the first to spot the warship as it was being pushed by a tug boat through the Saratoga Passage. The Defiant has been developed as a cost-effective unmanned service vessel for the US Navy. Unmanned vessels are typically used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and to glean intelligence. The Defiant will undergo in-water testing According to DARPA, the Defiant will “undergo extensive in-water testing, both dockside and at sea” and will later depart for a multi-month at-sea demonstration. Also Read: Putin calls Trump's suggestion to cut defence budget in half a 'good proposal' It will act as a testing model to learn how long such a vessel can operate autonomously without humans on board. Part of US Navy’s "Hellscape" programme American policymakers and combat commands have been calling for cost-effective USVs to help Taiwan. Notably, such drone ships can be used in the Taiwan Strait to protect the island nation against Chinese aggression. The US Navy’s "Hellscape" programme aims to create a battlefield with tens of thousands of unmanned ships, aircraft, and submarines across the West Pacific. Details of the same were given out by the head of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel Paparo last summer. “By removing the human element from all ship design considerations, the program intends to demonstrate significant advantages, to include: size, cost, at-sea reliability, greater hydrodynamic efficiency, survivability to sea-state, and survivability to adversary actions through stealth considerations and tampering resistance," DARPA says on its website. Photos of the Defiant show the warship still under covers, as it is partially covered in a tarp. (With inputs from agencies)

Mystery ship without any humans aboard seen near Washington state. It is a...

In an attempt to defend his direct negotiations with Hamas, the President Donald Trump said the United States is helping Israel in those discussions because "we&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages".
Elon Musk's SpaceX faced a setback on Thursday (March 6) as its Starship exploded during the eighth test flight. The debris of the rocket scattered across Florida and Bahamas.&nbsp;
US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 6) addressed mounting criticism over sweeping government cuts led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk, stressing that cuts should be carefully targeted.
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-negotiations-with-hamas-helping-israel-because-were-talking-about-israeli-hostages-8829353">Trump says negotiations with Hamas helping Israel 'because we&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/07/6JNtgbGDEm1MKEkT7ale.png" alt=" Trump says negotiations with Hamas helping Israel 'because we&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages' Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
In an attempt to defend his direct negotiations with Hamas, the US President Donald Trump said the United States is helping Israel in those discussions because "we&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages".
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catch-and-revoke-us-using-ai-to-track-down-and-deport-foreign-students-with-pro-hamas-views-report-8829329">'Catch and Revoke': US using AI to track down and deport foreign students with pro-Hamas views - Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/07/8hGsW6lTn32ddhn7DgNI.png" alt=" File Photo: Pro-Palestinian demonstrators march during a 'No Votes for Genocide' rally organised by the Boston Coalition for Palestine ahead of the US general election in Boston, US on November 2, 2024. Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">The US State Department has launched a sweeping initiative using AI to scrutinise the social media activity of foreign students.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-spacex-loses-contact-with-starship-rocket-minutes-after-test-flight-8829272"></a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-musks-cost-cutting-claims-department-heads-control-personnel-decisions-doge-scalpel-not-hatchet-8829268">Trump defends DOGE's cost-cutting, claims department heads control firings, not Musk</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/26/4LJIoQafBnLMPXlG3Tph.png" alt=" File Photo: Tesla CEO Elon Musk (R) jumps on stage as he joins Donald Trump during a campaign rally at site of his first assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania on October 5, 2024. Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 6) addressed mounting criticism over sweeping government cuts led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk, stressing that cuts should be carefully targeted.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-spacex-loses-contact-with-starship-rocket-minutes-after-test-flight-8829272">WATCH | SpaceX's Starship explodes midway after eighth test flight</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/07/2EBBAMPb588Yx5Ph7pHD.png" alt=" Elon Musk's SpaceX loses contact with Starship rocket minutes after test flight Photograph: (AFP) ">
Elon Musk's SpaceX faced a setback on Thursday (March 6) as its Starship exploded in space during the eighth test flight. The debris of the rocket scattered across Florida and Bahamas.&nbsp;
WATCH: Europe Union leaders green light plan to boost defence at Crisis Summit
<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/0703_WION_EU_LEADERS_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0703_WION_EU_LEADERS_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=677&amp;tags=europe, us, russia, ukraine, wion, world news" title="Europe Union leaders green light plan to boost defence at Crisis Summit" id="PL_iframe_block-m7y8j9ec-kzbicwvo-pgkwgwcb"></iframe>
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In an attempt to defend his direct negotiations with Hamas, the President Donald Trump said the United States is helping Israel in those discussions because "we’re talking about Israeli hostages". Elon Musk's SpaceX faced a setback on Thursday (March 6) as its Starship exploded during the eighth test flight. The debris of the rocket scattered across Florida and Bahamas. US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 6) addressed mounting criticism over sweeping government cuts led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk, stressing that cuts should be carefully targeted. Click on the headlines to read more Trump says negotiations with Hamas helping Israel 'because we’re talking about Israeli hostages' In an attempt to defend his direct negotiations with Hamas, the US President Donald Trump said the United States is helping Israel in those discussions because "we’re talking about Israeli hostages". 'Catch and Revoke': US using AI to track down and deport foreign students with pro-Hamas views - Report The US State Department has launched a sweeping initiative using AI to scrutinise the social media activity of foreign students. Trump defends DOGE's cost-cutting, claims department heads control firings, not Musk US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 6) addressed mounting criticism over sweeping government cuts led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk, stressing that cuts should be carefully targeted. WATCH | SpaceX's Starship explodes midway after eighth test flight Elon Musk's SpaceX faced a setback on Thursday (March 6) as its Starship exploded in space during the eighth test flight. The debris of the rocket scattered across Florida and Bahamas. WATCH: Europe Union leaders green light plan to boost defence at Crisis Summit

Morning news brief: Trump defends negotiations with Hamas; SpaceX's Starship explodes midway, and more

In an attempt to defend American officials' direct negotiations with Hamas, President Donald Trump said the US is helping Israel in those discussions because "we&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages".
However, an official familiar with the matter said that Israel is opposed to direct US negotiations with Hamas, The Times of Israel reported on Thursday (March 6).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catch-and-revoke-us-using-ai-to-track-down-and-deport-foreign-students-with-pro-hamas-views-report-8829329">'Catch and Revoke': US using AI to track down and deport foreign students with pro-Hamas views - Report</a>
In a news conference, while signing multiple executive orders in the Oval Office, Trump said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re not doing anything in terms of Hamas. We&rsquo;re not giving cash.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;You have to negotiate. There&rsquo;s a difference between negotiating and paying. We want to get these people out," the US President said, referring to Israeli hostages.&nbsp;
<h2>'I put out a statement that&rsquo;s self-explanatory' </h2>
Talking about his meeting with a group of Israeli hostages on Wednesday (March 5), Trump said he could not believe how poorly they were treated.&nbsp;
Trump said &ldquo;they want to know if we could just continue&rdquo; with the release of additional hostages.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-hostages-likely-to-be-killed-hamas-warns-if-israel-continues-attack-us-offers-them-60-day-ceasefire-8829011">'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza</a>
&ldquo;We have 59 left &mdash; of which 24 are living. The rest are dead&hellip; Those 24 who are living&hellip; they said they&rsquo;re in very bad shape," the US president said.&nbsp;
Adding on his ultimatum issued for the Palestinian terror group to immediately release the remaining hostages or face destruction, Trump said, &ldquo;I put out a statement that&rsquo;s self-explanatory."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-man-at-the-right-time-world-reacts-after-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-to-hamas-8828584">'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas</a>
&ldquo;Somebody&rsquo;s going to have to get a lot rougher than they&rsquo;re getting. It&rsquo;s a shame," he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We want to get these people out. If you would have seen the people yesterday&hellip; the way they spoke about their captivity, it was unbelievable. It&rsquo;s terrible," Trump said.
<h2>'Arab plan does not fulfill&hellip;'</h2>
Meanwhile, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that Arab plan for the post-war management of the Gaza Strip was "inadequate" as per the Trump administration.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-israeli-military-chief-takes-command-declares-hamas-mission-unfinished-8821908">New Israeli military chief takes command, declares Hamas mission 'Unfinished'</a>
She said that the US will not accept a framework that leads to a return of the cycle of violence involving Gaza. She added that Hamas could not continue existing in the Strip.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The Arab [plan] does not fulfill&hellip;the nature of what President Trump was asking for,&rdquo; Bruce said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | However, an official familiar with the matter said that Israel is opposed to the direct US negotiations with Hamas, The Times of Israel reported on Thursday (March 6).

In an attempt to defend American officials' direct negotiations with Hamas, President Donald Trump said the US is helping Israel in those discussions because "we’re talking about Israeli hostages". However, an official familiar with the matter said that Israel is opposed to direct US negotiations with Hamas, The Times of Israel reported on Thursday (March 6). Also read: 'Catch and Revoke': US using AI to track down and deport foreign students with pro-Hamas views - Report In a news conference, while signing multiple executive orders in the Oval Office, Trump said, “We’re not doing anything in terms of Hamas. We’re not giving cash.” “You have to negotiate. There’s a difference between negotiating and paying. We want to get these people out," the US President said, referring to Israeli hostages. 'I put out a statement that’s self-explanatory' Talking about his meeting with a group of Israeli hostages on Wednesday (March 5), Trump said he could not believe how poorly they were treated. Trump said “they want to know if we could just continue” with the release of additional hostages. Also read: 'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza “We have 59 left — of which 24 are living. The rest are dead… Those 24 who are living… they said they’re in very bad shape," the US president said. Adding on his ultimatum issued for the Palestinian terror group to immediately release the remaining hostages or face destruction, Trump said, “I put out a statement that’s self-explanatory." Also read: 'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas “Somebody’s going to have to get a lot rougher than they’re getting. It’s a shame," he said. “We want to get these people out. If you would have seen the people yesterday… the way they spoke about their captivity, it was unbelievable. It’s terrible," Trump said. 'Arab plan does not fulfill…' Meanwhile, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that Arab plan for the post-war management of the Gaza Strip was "inadequate" as per the Trump administration. WATCH: New Israeli military chief takes command, declares Hamas mission 'Unfinished' She said that the US will not accept a framework that leads to a return of the cycle of violence involving Gaza. She added that Hamas could not continue existing in the Strip. “The Arab [plan] does not fulfill…the nature of what President Trump was asking for,” Bruce said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We’re talking about Israeli hostages'

People in the United States are in for a celestial treat as the northern lights are expected to dazzle in the skies as far as New York. A geomagnetic storm triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) has triggered an aurora alert. &nbsp;The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a G1-class storm on Thursday night, although G2 conditions are also on the cards, which means the auroras will spread farther than normal.
The sun ejected a plume of plasma on March 1, sending charged particles in the direction of Earth. Auroras, or Northern Lights, happen when these particles come in contact with the planet's magnetosphere.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/millions-of-alien-invaders-from-alpha-centauri-lurking-in-solar-system-8826962" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">38 trillion kilometres: Millions of alien intruders from Alpha Centauri lurking in solar system</a>
These colourful lights are normally only visible in the polar regions, but the latest solar storm can cover a wider region.
NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center had sent out an aurora alert for G1 northern lights for March 4, 5 and 6, meaning a minor one. It is projected that the Kp index will reach a high of 3 over the next 24 hours, starting on the evening of March 5. So people in America can expect to watch the northern lights on the night of March 6.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/artificial-superintelligence-or-artificial-general-intelligence-can-replace-humans-8767078" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Artificial superintelligence will be better than humans. Should you be scared?</a>
The auroras will subside on March 7 and 8. However, NOAA has predicted another minor G1 level activity for March 9.
The agency has also predicted radio blackouts through March 9. "There is a chance for R1-R2 (Minor-Moderate), with a slight&nbsp;chance for R3 (Strong) or greater," it stated.
Geomagnetic storms can hamper satellite communications, GPS signals, and power grids. This normally happens when storms escalate to a level G2.
<h2>Auroras in 2025</h2>
Solar activity in 2025 is expected to increase since our star is approaching solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year cycle. More solar flares, CMEs, and geomagnetic storms can be expected in the coming months, heightening the prospects of more intense northern lights. A G2 storm will point to more frequent auroral events in the year 2025.

World Trending - The sun ejected a plume of plasma on March 1 sending charged particles in the direction of Earth. Auroras, or Northern Lights, are expected as far as New York.

People in the United States are in for a celestial treat as the northern lights are expected to dazzle in the skies as far as New York. A geomagnetic storm triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) has triggered an aurora alert. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a G1-class storm on Thursday night, although G2 conditions are also on the cards, which means the auroras will spread farther than normal. The sun ejected a plume of plasma on March 1, sending charged particles in the direction of Earth. Auroras, or Northern Lights, happen when these particles come in contact with the planet's magnetosphere. Also Read: 38 trillion kilometres: Millions of alien intruders from Alpha Centauri lurking in solar system These colourful lights are normally only visible in the polar regions, but the latest solar storm can cover a wider region. NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center had sent out an aurora alert for G1 northern lights for March 4, 5 and 6, meaning a minor one. It is projected that the Kp index will reach a high of 3 over the next 24 hours, starting on the evening of March 5. So people in America can expect to watch the northern lights on the night of March 6. Also Read: Artificial superintelligence will be better than humans. Should you be scared? The auroras will subside on March 7 and 8. However, NOAA has predicted another minor G1 level activity for March 9. The agency has also predicted radio blackouts through March 9. "There is a chance for R1-R2 (Minor-Moderate), with a slight chance for R3 (Strong) or greater," it stated. Geomagnetic storms can hamper satellite communications, GPS signals, and power grids. This normally happens when storms escalate to a level G2. Auroras in 2025 Solar activity in 2025 is expected to increase since our star is approaching solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year cycle. More solar flares, CMEs, and geomagnetic storms can be expected in the coming months, heightening the prospects of more intense northern lights. A G2 storm will point to more frequent auroral events in the year 2025.

Aurora alert! Northern lights as far as New York might dazzle skies. When to watch

The US State Department has launched a sweeping initiative using AI to scrutinise the social media activity of foreign students. Reports suggest that the Artificial Intelligence will be on a look out for any signs of alleged support for Hamas or other designated terrorist organisations, which will the be used as grounds for deportation.&nbsp;
<h2>Catch and Revoke</h2>
The move is part of a broader crackdown on what the administration deems "pro-Hamas" sentiment, reports Axios. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-hostages-likely-to-be-killed-hamas-warns-if-israel-continues-attack-us-offers-them-60-day-ceasefire-8829011">'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza</a>
Dubbed "Catch and Revoke," the move marks an unprecedented escalation in the US government's monitoring of foreign nationals' speech and conduct. AI-assisted tools are combing through tens of thousands of student visa holders' online posts, flagging content that expresses sympathy for Hamas.&nbsp;
What's alarming about this is the fact that even calls for "intifada"&mdash;a term used by Palestinians to describe uprisings against Israeli occupation, both armed resistance and non-violent protests can be deemed pro-Hamas. &nbsp;
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a longtime advocate for tighter immigration controls, has been vocal about his stance. Previously, when he was a senator, he had declared, "We cannot allow foreign nationals who support terrorist groups like Hamas and march in our streets calling for &lsquo;intifada&rsquo; to enter or stay in our country."
<h2>How will the system chose who to deport?&nbsp;</h2>
The programme, as per the Axios report citing senior State Department officials, also involves cross-checking visa holders' records with internal government databases, looking for individuals arrested or suspended from US universities during the Biden administration.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-man-at-the-right-time-world-reacts-after-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-to-hamas-8828584">'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas</a>
The officials claimed they "found literally zero visa revocations during the Biden administration." They said, "suggests a blind eye attitude toward law enforcement." &nbsp;
Federal agencies, including the Justice and Homeland Security Departments, have joined forces in a "whole of government and whole of authority approach" to implement the crackdown. Reports indicate that some of the intelligence-gathering extends to monitoring news articles and lawsuits from Jewish students alleging antisemitic activity on campus.&nbsp;
<h2>Anti-Israeli protests damp down&nbsp;</h2>
For many student visa holders, the chilling effect has already set in, suggest reports. Concerns over government surveillance have prompted some to avoid protests critical of Israel altogether, fearing potential repercussions. Civil rights advocates warn that the crackdown is a dangerous infringement on free speech. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-rescues-indian-workers-lured-to-west-bank-held-for-over-a-month-8829044">Israel rescues Indian workers &lsquo;lured&rsquo; to West Bank, held for over a month</a>
"This should concern all Americans," said Abed Ayoub, head of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, as quoted&nbsp; in the report. This is a First Amendment and freedom of speech issue, and the administration will overplay its hand." &nbsp;
"Americans won't like this. They'll view this as capitulating free speech rights for a foreign nation," he added.
Ayoub pointed out that this approach echoes Operation Boulder, a controversial 1972 initiative under President Nixon that involved infiltrating pro-Palestinian student groups. However, with AI technology now in play, he said that "it's even scarier because they're policing speech and using faulty technology". &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The US is employing AI to monitor foreign students' social media for pro-Hamas views, leading to potential deportation in a controversial crackdown initiative.

The US State Department has launched a sweeping initiative using AI to scrutinise the social media activity of foreign students. Reports suggest that the Artificial Intelligence will be on a look out for any signs of alleged support for Hamas or other designated terrorist organisations, which will the be used as grounds for deportation. Catch and Revoke The move is part of a broader crackdown on what the administration deems "pro-Hamas" sentiment, reports Axios. Also read | 'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza Dubbed "Catch and Revoke," the move marks an unprecedented escalation in the US government's monitoring of foreign nationals' speech and conduct. AI-assisted tools are combing through tens of thousands of student visa holders' online posts, flagging content that expresses sympathy for Hamas. What's alarming about this is the fact that even calls for "intifada"—a term used by Palestinians to describe uprisings against Israeli occupation, both armed resistance and non-violent protests can be deemed pro-Hamas. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a longtime advocate for tighter immigration controls, has been vocal about his stance. Previously, when he was a senator, he had declared, "We cannot allow foreign nationals who support terrorist groups like Hamas and march in our streets calling for ‘intifada’ to enter or stay in our country." How will the system chose who to deport? The programme, as per the Axios report citing senior State Department officials, also involves cross-checking visa holders' records with internal government databases, looking for individuals arrested or suspended from US universities during the Biden administration. Also read | 'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas The officials claimed they "found literally zero visa revocations during the Biden administration." They said, "suggests a blind eye attitude toward law enforcement." Federal agencies, including the Justice and Homeland Security Departments, have joined forces in a "whole of government and whole of authority approach" to implement the crackdown. Reports indicate that some of the intelligence-gathering extends to monitoring news articles and lawsuits from Jewish students alleging antisemitic activity on campus. Anti-Israeli protests damp down For many student visa holders, the chilling effect has already set in, suggest reports. Concerns over government surveillance have prompted some to avoid protests critical of Israel altogether, fearing potential repercussions. Civil rights advocates warn that the crackdown is a dangerous infringement on free speech. Also read | Israel rescues Indian workers ‘lured’ to West Bank, held for over a month "This should concern all Americans," said Abed Ayoub, head of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, as quoted in the report. This is a First Amendment and freedom of speech issue, and the administration will overplay its hand." "Americans won't like this. They'll view this as capitulating free speech rights for a foreign nation," he added. Ayoub pointed out that this approach echoes Operation Boulder, a controversial 1972 initiative under President Nixon that involved infiltrating pro-Palestinian student groups. However, with AI technology now in play, he said that "it's even scarier because they're policing speech and using faulty technology". (With inputs from agencies)

'Catch and revoke': US using AI to track and deport foreign students with pro-Hamas views - Report

Elon Musk's SpaceX faced a setback on Thursday (March 6) as its Starship exploded in space during the eighth test flight. The debris of the rocket scattered across Florida and Bahamas.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/spacex-announces-last-minute-cancellation-of-starship-test-flight-8775854">SpaceX aborts launch of its eighth Starship test flight last minute: 'Best to destack'</a>
Videos circulated on the social media platform X showed parts of the Starship - set on fire - falling form the sky. Some parts were seen wrapped in colourful smoke.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7y651n8-0ynydvt2-iczciq07">
Just saw Starship 8 blow up in the Bahamas <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> <a href="https://t.co/rTMJu23oVx">pic.twitter.com/rTMJu23oVx</a>
&mdash; Jonathon Norcross (@NorcrossUSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorcrossUSA/status/1897796234502349117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
The explosion occurred after a few engines cut off which led to the spacecraft losing its altitude control.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7y6565i-4k9u2a4n-nq2g3cio">
RIP Starship Flight 8, just caught it exploding after a few engines cut off and it losing attitude control, viewed from Titusville, FL🚀 <a href="https://t.co/VBBtApjsd7">pic.twitter.com/VBBtApjsd7</a>
&mdash; 📸Trevor Mahlmann🚀 (@TrevorMahlmann) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrevorMahlmann/status/1897796003245314474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/in-search-of-moons-water-spacex-successfully-launches-nasas-lunar-trailblazer-into-orbit-8760122">'In search of Moon&rsquo;s water': SpaceX successfully launches NASA&rsquo;s Lunar Trailblazer into orbit</a>
The spacecraft was sent on a mission aimed at testing its capabilities and deploy dummy satellites.&nbsp;
The rocket was designed to be the most powerful ever built. It was intended to conduct a suborbital flight, deploying four dummy Starlink satellites and testing reentry maneuvers.
The explosion comes as the second such incident since January this year when the upper stage of Starship exploded over the Caribbean. Debris of that spacecraft was rained on the Turks and Caicos Islands.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/risk-of-space-debris-hitting-planes-is-growing-in-spacex-era-researchers-warn-8707468">Risk of space debris hitting planes is growing in SpaceX era, researchers warn</a>
This time, the SpaceX had implemented certain modifications in the rocket to address the issues in the previous explosion. Adjustments were made to propellant lines, and vents were added to reduce fire risks.&nbsp;
Despite all the efforts, the spacecraft explosion turned out to be a major setback for SpaceX and its owner, Elon Musk, who dreams to develop an ambitious Starship program.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/to-the-moon-spacex-to-target-intuitive-machines-lander-launch-in-february-8655282">'To the Moon': SpaceX to target Intuitive Machines' lander launch in February</a>
The local authorities in Florida and Bahamas were alerted and residents were asked to be cautious of any falling debris.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | Trending | Videos circulated on the social media platform X showed parts of the Starship - set on fire - falling form the sky. Some parts were seen wrapped in colourful smoke.

Elon Musk's SpaceX faced a setback on Thursday (March 6) as its Starship exploded in space during the eighth test flight. The debris of the rocket scattered across Florida and Bahamas. Also read: SpaceX aborts launch of its eighth Starship test flight last minute: 'Best to destack' Videos circulated on the social media platform X showed parts of the Starship - set on fire - falling form the sky. Some parts were seen wrapped in colourful smoke. Just saw Starship 8 blow up in the Bahamas @SpaceX @elonmusk pic.twitter.com/rTMJu23oVx — Jonathon Norcross (@NorcrossUSA) March 6, 2025 The explosion occurred after a few engines cut off which led to the spacecraft losing its altitude control. RIP Starship Flight 8, just caught it exploding after a few engines cut off and it losing attitude control, viewed from Titusville, FL🚀 pic.twitter.com/VBBtApjsd7 — 📸Trevor Mahlmann🚀 (@TrevorMahlmann) March 6, 2025 Also read: 'In search of Moon’s water': SpaceX successfully launches NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer into orbit The spacecraft was sent on a mission aimed at testing its capabilities and deploy dummy satellites. The rocket was designed to be the most powerful ever built. It was intended to conduct a suborbital flight, deploying four dummy Starlink satellites and testing reentry maneuvers. The explosion comes as the second such incident since January this year when the upper stage of Starship exploded over the Caribbean. Debris of that spacecraft was rained on the Turks and Caicos Islands. Also read: Risk of space debris hitting planes is growing in SpaceX era, researchers warn This time, the SpaceX had implemented certain modifications in the rocket to address the issues in the previous explosion. Adjustments were made to propellant lines, and vents were added to reduce fire risks. Despite all the efforts, the spacecraft explosion turned out to be a major setback for SpaceX and its owner, Elon Musk, who dreams to develop an ambitious Starship program. Also read: 'To the Moon': SpaceX to target Intuitive Machines' lander launch in February The local authorities in Florida and Bahamas were alerted and residents were asked to be cautious of any falling debris.

WATCH | SpaceX's Starship explodes midway after eighth test flight

Is Trump reining in Musk, finally? US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 6) addressed mounting criticism over sweeping government cuts led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk, stressing that staff cuts should be carefully targeted.
In what could be seen as the first move to rein in the seemingly unlimited power accorded to Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Trump on Truth Social wrote: "We say the 'scalpel' rather than the 'hatchet'," while emphasising that department heads&mdash;not Musk&mdash;would ultimately control personnel decisions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-trudeau-of-causing-tariff-problem-says-he-is-exploiting-it-to-stay-in-power-8829116">Trump accuses Trudeau of causing tariff problem, says he is exploiting it 'to stay in power'</a>
<h2>Trump-Musk at odds?</h2>
No, Trump and Musk are not at odds, if one goes by the tone of his Truth Social post.
At the outset, the US president supported DOGE and its chief. According to a recent AP report, Musk in private talks told lawmakers this week that the firings of thousands of federal workers, including veterans, are the responsibility of individual agencies, not him.
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"DOGE has been an incredible success, and now that we have my Cabinet in place, I have instructed the Secretaries and Leadership to work with DOGE on Cost-Cutting measures and Staffing. As the Secretaries learn about, and understand, the people working for the various Departments, they can be very precise as to who will remain, and who will go," said Trump.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-plans-to-revoke-legal-status-of-ukrainian-refugees-for-fast-track-deportation-report-8829038">Trump administration plans to revoke legal status of Ukrainian refugees for fast-track deportation: Report</a>
According to Politico, Trump also conveyed directly to his cabinet, with Musk in attendance, that while the DOGE chief can make recommendations, the ultimate authority lies with his officials.
<h2>Federal workforce in turmoil</h2>
As part of the administration&rsquo;s effort to streamline government operations, tens of thousands of federal workers have already been dismissed or face termination. Millions of employees received directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Musk, demanding justification for their roles in bullet-pointed memos&mdash;or risk losing their jobs.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-most-mexico-tariffs-until-april-2-8829006">'Did this out of respect for Sheinbaum'; Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2</a>
Meanwhile, Musk, facing a backlash from within his task force, admitted to missteps during a meeting with Republicans on Wednesday (March 5).
According to Politico, nearly a third of DOGE's staffers resigned by February, citing concerns that the drastic measures endangered national stability.
"We swore to serve the American people and uphold our oath to the Constitution across presidential administrations," 21 DOGE members wrote in a letter to White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, reported the AFP news agency. "However, it has become clear that we can no longer honour those commitments," they wrote.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World | US President Donald Trump assures that department heads, not Elon Musk, will oversee federal workforce reductions or firings.

Is Trump reining in Musk, finally? US President Donald Trump on Thursday (March 6) addressed mounting criticism over sweeping government cuts led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk, stressing that staff cuts should be carefully targeted. In what could be seen as the first move to rein in the seemingly unlimited power accorded to Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Trump on Truth Social wrote: "We say the 'scalpel' rather than the 'hatchet'," while emphasising that department heads—not Musk—would ultimately control personnel decisions. Also read | Trump accuses Trudeau of causing tariff problem, says he is exploiting it 'to stay in power' Trump-Musk at odds? No, Trump and Musk are not at odds, if one goes by the tone of his Truth Social post. At the outset, the US president supported DOGE and its chief. According to a recent AP report, Musk in private talks told lawmakers this week that the firings of thousands of federal workers, including veterans, are the responsibility of individual agencies, not him. "DOGE has been an incredible success, and now that we have my Cabinet in place, I have instructed the Secretaries and Leadership to work with DOGE on Cost-Cutting measures and Staffing. As the Secretaries learn about, and understand, the people working for the various Departments, they can be very precise as to who will remain, and who will go," said Trump. Also read | Trump administration plans to revoke legal status of Ukrainian refugees for fast-track deportation: Report According to Politico, Trump also conveyed directly to his cabinet, with Musk in attendance, that while the DOGE chief can make recommendations, the ultimate authority lies with his officials. Federal workforce in turmoil As part of the administration’s effort to streamline government operations, tens of thousands of federal workers have already been dismissed or face termination. Millions of employees received directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Musk, demanding justification for their roles in bullet-pointed memos—or risk losing their jobs. Also read | 'Did this out of respect for Sheinbaum'; Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2 Meanwhile, Musk, facing a backlash from within his task force, admitted to missteps during a meeting with Republicans on Wednesday (March 5). According to Politico, nearly a third of DOGE's staffers resigned by February, citing concerns that the drastic measures endangered national stability. "We swore to serve the American people and uphold our oath to the Constitution across presidential administrations," 21 DOGE members wrote in a letter to White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, reported the AFP news agency. "However, it has become clear that we can no longer honour those commitments," they wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Reining in? Trump defends DOGE but says dept heads control firings, not Musk

US President Donald Trump, on Wednesday (Mar 5), took a shot at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, accusing him of "largely causing" the tariff problem and alleging that he was using it to run again for prime minister.
"Believe it or not, despite the terrible job he&rsquo;s done for Canada, I think that Justin Trudeau is using the Tariff problem, which he has largely caused, in order to run again for Prime Minister. So much fun to watch!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
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The Trump administration on Tuesday (Mar 4) had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada, stating that Trudeau was not doing enough to curb the flow of the fentanyl to the United States. But as on Thursday, some of these tariffs have been put on hold.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-most-mexico-tariffs-until-april-2-8829006">Also Read:&nbsp;'Did this out of respect for Sheinbaum'; Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2&nbsp;</a>
<h2>Canada announces retaliatory tariffs for US</h2>
Canada said that it will impose tariffs on US imports starting Tuesday, in retaliation to the levies announced by Trump. Announcing this, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there's no justification for Washington's actions.
"Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered. Should American tariffs come into effect tonight, Canada will, effective 12:01 a.m. EST tomorrow, respond with 25 per cent tariffs against $155 billion of American goods &ndash; starting with tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and tariffs on the remaining $125 billion on American products in 21 days&rsquo; time," Trudeau said in a statement.
Canada's retaliation includes imposing 25 per cent tariffs on C$30 billion worth of US goods from Tuesday (Mar 4), while tariffs on the remaining C$125 billion worth of products to follow in 21 days.
Trudeau, further in his statement, said that because of the tariffs imposed by Trump, the Americans will have to pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Because of the tariffs imposed by the US, Americans will pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs. Tariffs will disrupt an incredibly successful trading relationship. They will violate the very trade agreement that was negotiated by President Trump in his last term,&rdquo; the Canadian prime minister said.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: The Trump administration on Tuesday (Mar 4) imposed a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada, stating that Trudeau was not doing enough to curb the flow of the fentanyl to the United States.

US President Donald Trump, on Wednesday (Mar 5), took a shot at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, accusing him of "largely causing" the tariff problem and alleging that he was using it to run again for prime minister. "Believe it or not, despite the terrible job he’s done for Canada, I think that Justin Trudeau is using the Tariff problem, which he has largely caused, in order to run again for Prime Minister. So much fun to watch!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social. The Trump administration on Tuesday (Mar 4) had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada, stating that Trudeau was not doing enough to curb the flow of the fentanyl to the United States. But as on Thursday, some of these tariffs have been put on hold. Also Read: 'Did this out of respect for Sheinbaum'; Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2 Canada announces retaliatory tariffs for US Canada said that it will impose tariffs on US imports starting Tuesday, in retaliation to the levies announced by Trump. Announcing this, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there's no justification for Washington's actions. "Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered. Should American tariffs come into effect tonight, Canada will, effective 12:01 a.m. EST tomorrow, respond with 25 per cent tariffs against $155 billion of American goods – starting with tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and tariffs on the remaining $125 billion on American products in 21 days’ time," Trudeau said in a statement. Canada's retaliation includes imposing 25 per cent tariffs on C$30 billion worth of US goods from Tuesday (Mar 4), while tariffs on the remaining C$125 billion worth of products to follow in 21 days. Trudeau, further in his statement, said that because of the tariffs imposed by Trump, the Americans will have to pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs. “Because of the tariffs imposed by the US, Americans will pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs. Tariffs will disrupt an incredibly successful trading relationship. They will violate the very trade agreement that was negotiated by President Trump in his last term,” the Canadian prime minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump accuses Trudeau of causing tariff problem, says he is exploiting it 'to stay in power'

An envoy of President Donald Trump said Thursday that Ukraine has itself to blame for the US suspension of war aid and compared the shock move to hitting a stubborn farm animal with a piece of wood.&nbsp;
Keith Kellogg, a retired lieutenant general named by Trump as special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, said President Volodymyr Zelensky had ample opportunity to sign a US mineral rights sharing deal touted as key to a still-vague post-war security plan.
"Very candidly, they brought it on themselves &ndash; the Ukrainians," Kellogg said at the Council on Foreign Relations.
Cutting aid &ndash; vital to Ukraine's efforts to defend against the three-year Russian invasion &ndash; was meant to be a short-sharp shock, he said.
"I think the best way I can describe it is sort of like hitting a mule with a two-by-four across the nose," he said.
"You got their attention, and it's very significant, obviously, because of the support that we give," he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ukraine-to-hold-meeting-next-week-zelensky-announces-after-eu-emergency-summit-in-brussels-8828965">US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels</a>
Kellogg said that the pause should be temporary until Zelensky signs the deal, although he cautioned that Trump alone would make the decision.
"The protocol is &ndash; you sign a document and once you sign a document that you want to go forward, that you're serious about it, then I think you can move forward" on aid, he said.
Zelensky flew to Washington last week to sign an agreement demanded by Trump that in part would compensate the United States for billions of dollars in weapons sent since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
The two leaders' meeting dramatically unraveled as Zelensky questioned how to believe any Russian promises. Trump and Vice President JD Vance responded by angrily accusing him of ingratitude.
Kellogg insisted that the Trump administration was also pressuring Russia to make a deal including through enforcement of sanctions on ships selling oil.
"It's not so much more options," he said of Trump's approach to pressuring Russia. "It's the enforcement of the options."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World | Kellogg said that the pause should be temporary until Zelensky signs the deal, although he cautioned that Trump alone would make the decision.

An envoy of President Donald Trump said Thursday that Ukraine has itself to blame for the US suspension of war aid and compared the shock move to hitting a stubborn farm animal with a piece of wood. Keith Kellogg, a retired lieutenant general named by Trump as special envoy on Russia and Ukraine, said President Volodymyr Zelensky had ample opportunity to sign a US mineral rights sharing deal touted as key to a still-vague post-war security plan. "Very candidly, they brought it on themselves – the Ukrainians," Kellogg said at the Council on Foreign Relations. Cutting aid – vital to Ukraine's efforts to defend against the three-year Russian invasion – was meant to be a short-sharp shock, he said. "I think the best way I can describe it is sort of like hitting a mule with a two-by-four across the nose," he said. "You got their attention, and it's very significant, obviously, because of the support that we give," he said. Also read | US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels Kellogg said that the pause should be temporary until Zelensky signs the deal, although he cautioned that Trump alone would make the decision. "The protocol is – you sign a document and once you sign a document that you want to go forward, that you're serious about it, then I think you can move forward" on aid, he said. Zelensky flew to Washington last week to sign an agreement demanded by Trump that in part would compensate the United States for billions of dollars in weapons sent since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The two leaders' meeting dramatically unraveled as Zelensky questioned how to believe any Russian promises. Trump and Vice President JD Vance responded by angrily accusing him of ingratitude. Kellogg insisted that the Trump administration was also pressuring Russia to make a deal including through enforcement of sanctions on ships selling oil. "It's not so much more options," he said of Trump's approach to pressuring Russia. "It's the enforcement of the options." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US envoy compares Ukraine aid freeze to ‘hitting a mule’

Israeli authorities rescued ten Indian workers from a village in the West Bank, where they were held for over a month, the Times of Israel reported citing the Population and Immigration Authority.
According to the local media reports, the Indians were deceived by Palestinians with promises of work in the West Bank village of al-Zaayem.&nbsp;
Upon arrival, their passports were confiscated, and the Palestinians attempted to use the stolen documents to cross into Israel, said the authorities.
The ten workers had come to Israel to work in construction.
They were rescued in an overnight operation helmed by the authority, along with the IDF and the Justice Ministry.&nbsp;
The rescued workers have been relocated to a secure facility, where they will remain until their immigration and employment status is determined.
The Israeli Defence Forces had identified the illicit use of the confiscated passports and later returned them to their original owners.
In 2024, around 16,000 laborers migrated to Israel from India as part of an Israeli government effort aimed at addressing the shortage of construction workers caused by a ban on Palestinian labourers following Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack.&nbsp;
This move is in line with the agreement signed between Israel and India in May 2023, allowing 42,000 Indian workers to enter Israel, primarily in the construction and nursing sectors.
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had then put out a post on X after meeting his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen stating that both ministers had a productive and wide-ranging discussions.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7xnhtc8-9k7o7wk5-7pcpu7vs">
Productive and wide-ranging discussions with Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/elicoh1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elicoh1</a> of Israel this afternoon. The main pillars of our Strategic Partnership - Agriculture, Water, Defence &amp; Security - are taking our ties forward. New agreements in water &amp; agriculture today underline the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/CPAdcBuYEw">pic.twitter.com/CPAdcBuYEw</a>
&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1655872489447387137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
The ministers had discussed ways to strengthen Indo-Israel ties by "adding direct flights, continuing cooperation in agriculture and water management, and expanding cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence and cyber defence".
"The ministers also signed agreements to allow the arrival of 42,000 Indian workers in the fields of construction and nursing," it said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: In 2024, around 16,000 laborers migrated to Israel from India as part of an Israeli government effort aimed at addressing the shortage of construction workers caused by a ban on Palestinian labourers following Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack.

Israeli authorities rescued ten Indian workers from a village in the West Bank, where they were held for over a month, the Times of Israel reported citing the Population and Immigration Authority. According to the local media reports, the Indians were deceived by Palestinians with promises of work in the West Bank village of al-Zaayem. Upon arrival, their passports were confiscated, and the Palestinians attempted to use the stolen documents to cross into Israel, said the authorities. The ten workers had come to Israel to work in construction. They were rescued in an overnight operation helmed by the authority, along with the IDF and the Justice Ministry. The rescued workers have been relocated to a secure facility, where they will remain until their immigration and employment status is determined. The Israeli Defence Forces had identified the illicit use of the confiscated passports and later returned them to their original owners. In 2024, around 16,000 laborers migrated to Israel from India as part of an Israeli government effort aimed at addressing the shortage of construction workers caused by a ban on Palestinian labourers following Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack. This move is in line with the agreement signed between Israel and India in May 2023, allowing 42,000 Indian workers to enter Israel, primarily in the construction and nursing sectors. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had then put out a post on X after meeting his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen stating that both ministers had a productive and wide-ranging discussions. Productive and wide-ranging discussions with Foreign Minister @elicoh1 of Israel this afternoon. The main pillars of our Strategic Partnership - Agriculture, Water, Defence & Security - are taking our ties forward. New agreements in water & agriculture today underline the… pic.twitter.com/CPAdcBuYEw — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 9, 2023 The ministers had discussed ways to strengthen Indo-Israel ties by "adding direct flights, continuing cooperation in agriculture and water management, and expanding cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence and cyber defence". "The ministers also signed agreements to allow the arrival of 42,000 Indian workers in the fields of construction and nursing," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel rescues Indian workers ‘lured’ to West Bank, held for over a month

President Donald Trump is planning to revoke the temporary legal status of 240,000 Ukrainians who fled to the US following Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine. According to a Reuters report that cited sources, the move would potentially pave the way for their deportation.
This comes following the explosive spat between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that happened at the White House on February 28. The move would be part of the broader effort to strip the legal status of over 1.8 million migrants that were allowed to enter the US on humanitarian grounds under the Biden administration, the report said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ukraine-to-hold-meeting-next-week-zelensky-announces-after-eu-emergency-summit-in-brussels-8828965">US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels</a>
The move would further widen the rift between the countries. US has already paused military assistance and intelligence sharing with Kyiv.
<h2>US denies claims</h2>
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt refuted the Reuters report calling it &ldquo;fake news&rdquo;, and claimed that no such decision has been made.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-most-mexico-tariffs-until-april-2-8829006">Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2</a>
&ldquo;This is more fake news from Reuters based on anonymous sources who have no idea what they are talking about,&rdquo; she wrote on X, adding, &ldquo;The truth: no decision has been made at this time.&rdquo;
US Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin on Wednesday (Mar 5) stated there are no new announcements by the department.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-likely-to-defer-tariffs-on-goods-under-us-mexico-canada-pact-8828753">Trump 'likely' to defer tariffs on goods under US-Mexico-Canada pact</a>
Trump issued an executive order on January 20 - after taking office - which directed DHS to &ldquo;terminate all categorical parole programs.&rdquo;
<h2>Fast-track deportation</h2>
Migrants stripped of their parole status could be fast-tracked for deportation proceedings, reported Reuters citing an internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) email.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-pakistani-and-afghans-be-banned-from-entering-us-under-trumps-new-ban-8828693">Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US?</a>
Trump has rolled back several programs that started under the Biden administration, claiming they went beyond the bounds of US law.
Trump removed the protection of Ukrainian and other refugees soon after taking office for his second term in the White House. He suspended the Uniting for Ukraine program by late January. The program allowed Ukrainians to stay, work and receive health insurance in the US for up to two years.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Migrants stripped of their parole status could be fast-tracked for deportation proceedings, reported Reuters citing an internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) email.

President Donald Trump is planning to revoke the temporary legal status of 240,000 Ukrainians who fled to the US following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. According to a Reuters report that cited sources, the move would potentially pave the way for their deportation. This comes following the explosive spat between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that happened at the White House on February 28. The move would be part of the broader effort to strip the legal status of over 1.8 million migrants that were allowed to enter the US on humanitarian grounds under the Biden administration, the report said. Also read | US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels The move would further widen the rift between the countries. US has already paused military assistance and intelligence sharing with Kyiv. US denies claims White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt refuted the Reuters report calling it “fake news”, and claimed that no such decision has been made. Also read | Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2 “This is more fake news from Reuters based on anonymous sources who have no idea what they are talking about,” she wrote on X, adding, “The truth: no decision has been made at this time.” US Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin on Wednesday (Mar 5) stated there are no new announcements by the department. Also read | Trump 'likely' to defer tariffs on goods under US-Mexico-Canada pact Trump issued an executive order on January 20 - after taking office - which directed DHS to “terminate all categorical parole programs.” Fast-track deportation Migrants stripped of their parole status could be fast-tracked for deportation proceedings, reported Reuters citing an internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) email. Also read | Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US? Trump has rolled back several programs that started under the Biden administration, claiming they went beyond the bounds of US law. Trump removed the protection of Ukrainian and other refugees soon after taking office for his second term in the White House. He suspended the Uniting for Ukraine program by late January. The program allowed Ukrainians to stay, work and receive health insurance in the US for up to two years. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump administration plans to revoke legal status of Ukrainian refugees for fast-track deportation: Report

The Palestinian militant group Hamas warned that some hostages are 'likely to be killed' if Israeli military escalation against them continues, reported The Times of Israel.&nbsp;
Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida warned that Israeli threats of war and blockade will not secure the release of hostages.&nbsp;
He further claimed that the terror group is still committed to abiding by the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal with Israel.&nbsp;
Currently, 59 Israeli hostages are still being held in the Gaza Strip after the first phase of the Gaza truce concluded. Moreover, at least 35 of these hostages have been confirmed dead by the IDF.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-reconstruction-plan-rejected-by-israel-and-us-but-backed-by-hamas-heres-all-you-need-to-know-8796605">Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know</a>
<h2>US offers Hamas 60-day ceasefire&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, the United States has offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, a Palestinian source told Sky News Arabia, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Washington asked Hamas to release ten hostages&hellip; in exchange for extending the ceasefire for sixty days, starting negotiations on the second phase and the position of Israeli forces along the Philadelphi Corridor,&rdquo; as well as resuming the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, the source said.
However, the source did not mention when the offer was presented.&nbsp;
"Hamas is still considering its response to the American proposal," the source added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-league-summit-egypts-sisi-says-trump-can-bring-peace-as-leaders-meet-to-oppose-his-gaza-plan-8790469">Arab Summit: Egypt&rsquo;s Sisi says &lsquo;Trump can bring peace&rsquo; as leaders meet to oppose&nbsp;his&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;plan</a>
<h2>Israel may cut intelligence sharing with US&nbsp;</h2>
Israel is considering reducing intelligence sharing with the US due to the warming relationship between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, NBC reported citing sources.&nbsp;
However, an Israeli operation denied the report, saying that "cooperation between Israel and the United States on every level, including the sharing of crucial intelligence data, is as strong and solid as ever.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-direct-talks-with-hamas-over-hostage-release-amid-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-8821204">US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning</a>
Moreover, not just Israel, but, the UK, Australia Canada, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia, are said to be considering changes to their intelligence sharing protocols.
These US allies have been fearing that the identity of important foreign assets could be revealed, thus jeopardising them, amid the US&rsquo;s reconciliation with Russia.
Discussions on the potential scaling back of intelligence sharing &ldquo;are already happening,&rdquo; but no decisions have been made thus far, NBC reported citing anonymous sources.
The UK and Canada also rejected the report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-warns-hamas-of-unimaginable-consequences-if-they-fail-to-return-hostages-gaza-ceasefire-8775399">&lsquo;Might return to war&rsquo;: Netanyahu warns Hamas of &lsquo;unimaginable consequences&rsquo; if they don't return hostages</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: US offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, a Palestinian source told Sky News Arabia.

The Palestinian militant group Hamas warned that some hostages are 'likely to be killed' if Israeli military escalation against them continues, reported The Times of Israel. Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida warned that Israeli threats of war and blockade will not secure the release of hostages. He further claimed that the terror group is still committed to abiding by the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal with Israel. Currently, 59 Israeli hostages are still being held in the Gaza Strip after the first phase of the Gaza truce concluded. Moreover, at least 35 of these hostages have been confirmed dead by the IDF. Also read: Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know US offers Hamas 60-day ceasefire Meanwhile, the United States has offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, a Palestinian source told Sky News Arabia, The Times of Israel reported. “Washington asked Hamas to release ten hostages… in exchange for extending the ceasefire for sixty days, starting negotiations on the second phase and the position of Israeli forces along the Philadelphi Corridor,” as well as resuming the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, the source said. However, the source did not mention when the offer was presented. "Hamas is still considering its response to the American proposal," the source added. Also read: Arab Summit: Egypt’s Sisi says ‘Trump can bring peace’ as leaders meet to oppose his Gaza plan Israel may cut intelligence sharing with US Israel is considering reducing intelligence sharing with the US due to the warming relationship between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, NBC reported citing sources. However, an Israeli operation denied the report, saying that "cooperation between Israel and the United States on every level, including the sharing of crucial intelligence data, is as strong and solid as ever.” Also read: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning Moreover, not just Israel, but, the UK, Australia Canada, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia, are said to be considering changes to their intelligence sharing protocols. These US allies have been fearing that the identity of important foreign assets could be revealed, thus jeopardising them, amid the US’s reconciliation with Russia. Discussions on the potential scaling back of intelligence sharing “are already happening,” but no decisions have been made thus far, NBC reported citing anonymous sources. The UK and Canada also rejected the report. Also read: ‘Might return to war’: Netanyahu warns Hamas of ‘unimaginable consequences’ if they don't return hostages (With inputs from agencies)

'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza

US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Mar 6), said that he was halting the tariffs that he had imposed recently on Mexico imports after he had talks with the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
He said that Mexico will not have to pay tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA Agreement. stating that, "This Agreement is until April 2nd."
Citing their positive relationship, Trump said that he took this decision "out of respect" for his Mexican counterpart, President Sheinbaum.
"After speaking with President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico, I have agreed that Mexico will not be required to pay Tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA Agreement. This Agreement is until April 2nd. I did this as an accommodation, and out of respect for, President Sheinbaum," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
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"Our relationship has been a very good one, and we are working hard, together, on the Border, both in terms of stopping Illegal Aliens from entering the United States and, likewise, stopping Fentanyl. Thank you to President Sheinbaum for your hard work and cooperation!" he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-pakistani-and-afghans-be-banned-from-entering-us-under-trumps-new-ban-8828693">Also read: Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US?</a>
<h2>Mexico president hails 'unprecedented results'</h2>
Sheinbaum hailed "unprecedented results" from collaboration with the United States.
"We will continue to work together, particularly on migration and security issues," Sheinbaum wrote on social media after what she called an "excellent and respectful" phone call with Trump.&nbsp;
Earlier, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that Trump will likely defer tariffs on Canada and Mexico for all goods and services under the USMCA trade agreement.
"It's likely that it will cover all USMCA compliant goods and services, so that which is part of President Trump's deal with Canada and Mexico are likely to get an exemption from these tariffs," Lutnick told CNBC.
He said that he, along with Trump, will have a discussion with their Mexican counterparts on Thursday and that both Canada and Mexico have &ldquo;offered us an enormous amount of work on fentanyl.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Trump said fresh tariffs would not apply to trade falling under a pact between the United States, Mexico and Canada for now, adding: "This Agreement is until April 2nd."

US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Mar 6), said that he was halting the tariffs that he had imposed recently on Mexico imports after he had talks with the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. He said that Mexico will not have to pay tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA Agreement. stating that, "This Agreement is until April 2nd." Citing their positive relationship, Trump said that he took this decision "out of respect" for his Mexican counterpart, President Sheinbaum. "After speaking with President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico, I have agreed that Mexico will not be required to pay Tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA Agreement. This Agreement is until April 2nd. I did this as an accommodation, and out of respect for, President Sheinbaum," Trump said in a post on Truth Social. "Our relationship has been a very good one, and we are working hard, together, on the Border, both in terms of stopping Illegal Aliens from entering the United States and, likewise, stopping Fentanyl. Thank you to President Sheinbaum for your hard work and cooperation!" he added. Also read: Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US? Mexico president hails 'unprecedented results' Sheinbaum hailed "unprecedented results" from collaboration with the United States. "We will continue to work together, particularly on migration and security issues," Sheinbaum wrote on social media after what she called an "excellent and respectful" phone call with Trump. Earlier, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that Trump will likely defer tariffs on Canada and Mexico for all goods and services under the USMCA trade agreement. "It's likely that it will cover all USMCA compliant goods and services, so that which is part of President Trump's deal with Canada and Mexico are likely to get an exemption from these tariffs," Lutnick told CNBC. He said that he, along with Trump, will have a discussion with their Mexican counterparts on Thursday and that both Canada and Mexico have “offered us an enormous amount of work on fentanyl.” (With inputs from agencies)

'Did this out of respect for Sheinbaum'; Trump suspends most Mexico tariffs until April 2

As Brussels hosted a European Emergency Summit on Thursday (March 6), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Europe for "trying to do the right thing" while calling on Russia to not attack on energy and other civilian infrastructure.&nbsp;
While detailing what he addressed at the Emergency Summit, Zelensky said that Russia "the sole source of this war" accepts the need to end it, saying that everyone must ensure this.
"This can be proved by two forms of silence: no attacks on energy and other civilian infrastructure &ndash; a truce for missiles, bombs, long-range drones; no military operations in the Black Sea," he said in a post on X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-offers-to-sign-minerals-deal-at-any-time-says-trump-defending-his-position-on-ukraine-8791523">Trump speech: Zelensky offers to sign minerals deal 'any time', says US president</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I am grateful for all the support, and Ukrainians really appreciate that in a time of such great emotions in global politics, European integrity is preserved and Europe is truly trying to do the right thing. Meanwhile, Ukrainian and American teams have resumed work, and we hope&hellip;
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1897688680476950608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

<h2>'Grateful for support'</h2>
The Ukrainian president further said that he is grateful for all the support, adding that Ukrainians "really appreciate that in a time of such great emotions in global politics, European integrity is preserved"
"Europe is truly trying to do the right thing," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sharing-military-intelligence-with-ukraine-says-france-after-us-paused-intelligence-sharing-8828332">Sharing military intelligence with Ukraine, says France after US 'paused' intelligence sharing</a>
<h2>'US-Ukraine to hold meeting next week'</h2>
Zelensky further highlighted that Ukrainian and American teams have resumed work.&nbsp;
"We hope that next week we will have a meaningful meeting," he said.&nbsp;
He stressed that Ukraine has been seeking peace since the very first moment of the war.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Everyone must ensure that Russia, the sole source of this war, accepts the need to end it. This can be proved by two forms of silence: no attacks on energy and other civilian infrastructure &ndash; a truce for missiles, bombs, long-range drones; no military operations in the Black Sea. <a href="https://t.co/0OoIL3UOGd">pic.twitter.com/0OoIL3UOGd</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1897688636180558234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ukraine is not only ready to take the necessary steps for peace but are also proposing those steps, he added.&nbsp;
"I ask for the support of Ukraine and the European leaders who are helping to pave the way for peace. This is what I addressed to the European Council," he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-military-aid-us-halts-intelligence-support-to-ukraine-8801101">After military aid, US halts intelligence support to Ukraine</a>
The European Union leaders held emergency talks in Brussels, marking the first summit of 27 nations since the heated conversation happened last week between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;
The leaders met to discuss &euro;800bn plan to boost military capacity.&nbsp;
Zelensky also held a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the European Council meeting.&nbsp;
"I thanked Emmanuel for his clear and principled stance in support of Ukraine and the need for new, more substantial steps to protect our entire Europe&mdash;our peoples, our institutions, and our European way of life," he said.&nbsp;
The two leaders discussed their upcoming meeting which is scheduled for March 11 at the level of military representatives of the countries willing to put in greater efforts to ensure reliable security in the context of ending this war.
"We have an absolutely clear shared vision that real and lasting peace is possible through cooperation between Ukraine, all of Europe, and the United States. The war must end as soon as possible," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-man-at-the-right-time-world-reacts-after-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-to-hamas-8828584">'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Ukrainian President Zelensky said that Russia "the sole source of this war" accepts the need to end it, saying that everyone must ensure this.

As Brussels hosted a European Emergency Summit on Thursday (March 6), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Europe for "trying to do the right thing" while calling on Russia to not attack on energy and other civilian infrastructure. While detailing what he addressed at the Emergency Summit, Zelensky said that Russia "the sole source of this war" accepts the need to end it, saying that everyone must ensure this. "This can be proved by two forms of silence: no attacks on energy and other civilian infrastructure – a truce for missiles, bombs, long-range drones; no military operations in the Black Sea," he said in a post on X. Also read: Trump speech: Zelensky offers to sign minerals deal 'any time', says US president I am grateful for all the support, and Ukrainians really appreciate that in a time of such great emotions in global politics, European integrity is preserved and Europe is truly trying to do the right thing. Meanwhile, Ukrainian and American teams have resumed work, and we hope… — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 6, 2025 'Grateful for support' The Ukrainian president further said that he is grateful for all the support, adding that Ukrainians "really appreciate that in a time of such great emotions in global politics, European integrity is preserved" "Europe is truly trying to do the right thing," he added. Also read: Sharing military intelligence with Ukraine, says France after US 'paused' intelligence sharing 'US-Ukraine to hold meeting next week' Zelensky further highlighted that Ukrainian and American teams have resumed work. "We hope that next week we will have a meaningful meeting," he said. He stressed that Ukraine has been seeking peace since the very first moment of the war. Everyone must ensure that Russia, the sole source of this war, accepts the need to end it. This can be proved by two forms of silence: no attacks on energy and other civilian infrastructure – a truce for missiles, bombs, long-range drones; no military operations in the Black Sea. pic.twitter.com/0OoIL3UOGd — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 6, 2025 Ukraine is not only ready to take the necessary steps for peace but are also proposing those steps, he added. "I ask for the support of Ukraine and the European leaders who are helping to pave the way for peace. This is what I addressed to the European Council," he said. Also read: After military aid, US halts intelligence support to Ukraine The European Union leaders held emergency talks in Brussels, marking the first summit of 27 nations since the heated conversation happened last week between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The leaders met to discuss €800bn plan to boost military capacity. Zelensky also held a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the European Council meeting. "I thanked Emmanuel for his clear and principled stance in support of Ukraine and the need for new, more substantial steps to protect our entire Europe—our peoples, our institutions, and our European way of life," he said. The two leaders discussed their upcoming meeting which is scheduled for March 11 at the level of military representatives of the countries willing to put in greater efforts to ensure reliable security in the context of ending this war. "We have an absolutely clear shared vision that real and lasting peace is possible through cooperation between Ukraine, all of Europe, and the United States. The war must end as soon as possible," he added. Also read: 'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas (With inputs from agencies)

US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels

Goods and services compliant with a trade pact between the United States, Mexico and Canada would likely receive a one-month exclusion from the US tariffs, said US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
Meanwhile, the UK on Thursday (Mar 6) condemned the security breach incident during Indian EAM Jaishankar's visit, calling it 'unacceptable'.
In other news, Pakistan and Afghanistan nationals could be barred from entering the US amid President Donald Trump's stern actions against immigrants.
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UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson, on Thursday (Mar 6), condemned the security breach incident, that took place outside the Chatham House during Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the United Kingdom.
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Goods and services compliant with a trade pact between the United States, Mexico and Canada would likely receive a one-month exclusion from the US tariffs, said US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Meanwhile, the UK on Thursday (Mar 6) condemned the security breach incident during Indian EAM Jaishankar's visit, calling it 'unacceptable'. In other news, Pakistan and Afghanistan nationals could be barred from entering the US amid President Donald Trump's stern actions against immigrants. Click on the headlines for more Trump 'likely' to defer tariffs on goods under US-Mexico-Canada pact US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC Thursday that goods and services compliant with a trade pact between the United States, Mexico and Canada would probably receive a one-month exclusion from President Donald Trump's tariffs. UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit, calls it 'unacceptable' UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson, on Thursday (Mar 6), condemned the security breach incident, that took place outside the Chatham House during Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar's visit to the United Kingdom. Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US? Amid US President Donald Trump taking stern actions against immigrants, people from Pakistan and Afghanistan could be barred from entering the US, according to a Reuters report. ‘Will soon be dead’: 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana alleges ‘torture’ if extradited to India In his final attempts to evade Indian authorities, the 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana approached the US Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay on his extradition to India. In his petition, Rana claimed that he would be tortured and killed in India. Can Trump dismantle Education Department with executive order? US President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order to dismantle the Education Department, according to US media reports. 'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas Israeli and international leaders have been reacting to US President Donald Trump's warning to Hamas, expressing support for Trump's readiness to take action against the Palestinian militant group. Trump speech: Lesotho pushes back, NZ pulls envoy over remarks US President Donald Trump gave his first address to Congress since his return to the White House at the US Capitol on Tuesday (Mar 4). While talking about several world issues, his speech sparked different reactions from foreign nations. Passengers overpower teen trying to board plane in Australia with shotgun Passengers overpowered a 17-year-old boy, on Thursday (Mar 6), who attempted to board a plane near the Australian city of Melbourne while armed with a shotgun and ammunition, according to police. Amber Rose opens up about ex Kanye West controlling partner's dressing choice: 'He wants other men to....' A month after Bianca Censori grabbed eyeballs for appearing in a naked dress on the Grammys 2025 red carpet along with her husband Kanye West, model Amber Rose has opened up about Kanye's influence over his parent's fashion choices. Kanye and Amber were in a relationship from 2008 -2010. IPL 2025: Wiaan Mulder joins SunRisers Hyderabad as replacement for injured Brydon Carse South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder is all set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) after he was roped in by SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (Mar 6). Mulder will replace injured Brydon Carse who opted out of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 due to an injury. Mulder will join the likes of Pat Cummins, Mohammed Shami, Ishan Kishan, Travis Head and others in the rank of SRH, who finished runners-up in IPL 2024.

Top 10 world news: Trump trade war; UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit, and more

Emergency Summit HIGHLIGHTS: The European Union leaders held emergency talks in Brussels, marking the first summit of 27 nations since the heated conversation happened last week between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;
<h2>Emergency Summit&nbsp;</h2>
This comes as the US suspended military and intelligence support to Ukraine after the fiery conversation between the two leaders at the White House.&nbsp;
The leaders are meeting in Brussels today to discuss &euro;800bn plan to boost military capacity. Since the start of Russia&rsquo;s military aggression, the EU and its member states have provided nearly &euro;135 billion in support for Ukraine and its people.
Moreover, the EU has also adopted sanctions against Russia, targeting vital areas of the Russian economy, including banking, Putin&rsquo;s shadow fleet and goods and technologies in the industrial and energy sectors.
<h2>Check all the highlights of EU Emergency Summit on WION</h2>

Right before leaving for the summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the 'ReArm Europe' plan will be among the top issues discussed.
The proposal was announced on Monday, which includes an unprecedented defence package which Leyen said could free up a total of $860bn in defence expenditure for Ukraine.&nbsp;
The plan further includes:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>It will allow nations to increase national deficit levels to give room to more defence spending.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Loan worth of &euro;150bn for defence investment to benefit the defence of the EU as a whole. Example includes, air and missile defence, anti-drone systems, and a military mobility. It will further help pool demand, and joint procurement would reduce costs</li>
<li>Allowing countries to redirect funds earmarked for cohesion policy programmes (i.e. policies aimed at levelling the differences between more and less advantaged regions) to defence spending</li>
</ul>

Emergency Summit LIVE: Key agendas to be discussed today

Adrien Brody&nbsp;has won his second Oscar for best actor for his role in The Brutalist.
Brody&rsquo;s performance as Hungarian-Jewish architect Laszlo Toth in Brady Corbet&rsquo;s The Brutalist has made him one of the strongest leading candidates for best actor, competing against Timothee Chalamet.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Adrien Brody wins the award for best actor

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said, "I am cautiously optimistic that this will lead to good results."
"It's better not to comment on what ifs.&nbsp;It's my assumption...things can move forward in a positive sense," he added.

Emergency Summit LIVE: NATO chief 'cautiously optimistic about Ukraine's talks with US 

Ukraine&rsquo;s Ambassador to London General Valerii Zaluzhnyi said that the US is "destroying" the established world order by attempting to meet Russia "halfway". He warned that NATO faces a risk of collapse and Europe could become Russia's next target.

Emergency Summit LIVE: Ukrainian ambassador says US 'destroying' world order

French president Emmanuel Macron met with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the EU summit.&nbsp;
They discussed the latest ideas and plans for Ukraine as they continue working on a proposal that could satisfy the Trump administration and help achieve a just and lasting peace.

Emergency Summit LIVE: Zelensky meets Macron on sidelines of EU summit

Around 20 countries are reportedly interested in becoming part of the "coalition of the willing" to help Ukraine, UK official said.&nbsp;
The officials said that a meeting was convened yesterday to discuss providing security guarantees following any peace deal.&nbsp;
The officials said it was "early days" but welcomed what they described as a "highly positive step".

Emergency Summit LIVE: 20 countries 'interested' in Starmer's 'coalition of the willing', says UK 

As the leaders hold EU Summit, protesters gathered outside the US embassy in Kyiv on Thursday for the fate of Ukrainian prisoners of war and ensure their inclusion in any deal to stop the conflict with Russia.&nbsp;

Emergency Summit LIVE: Ukrainian protest at US Embassy in Kyiv

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman warned the EU of sending a peacekeeping force in Ukraine and a potential month-long truce, saying it will further escalate the war.
"The conflict will unavoidably resume with renewed force... this is absolutely unacceptable," said Maria Zakharova.
She added that European leaders have "not learnt from the past", referring to the prospect of sending a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine.
Zakharova added that any European peacekeeping will revive the "agonising" Kyiv regime.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Emergency Summit LIVE: Russian Foreign Ministry warns EU of sending peacekeeping force in Ukraine

Belgian prime minister Bart De Wever reassured President Volodymyr Zelensky in a bilateral meeting that Ukraine &ldquo;can count on our pportcontinued su.&rdquo;
He added that Belgium will not accept any decisions made about Ukraine with Ukrainian leaders.
&ldquo;Russia is the aggressor, Ukraine is the victim. We must never lose sight of that,&rdquo; he said.

Emergency Summit LIVE: Belgian PM reassures Zelensky of 'continued support'

An emergency meeting in Brussels is underway, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron hold their first bilateral meeting.

Emergency Summit LIVE: Zelensky's first bilateral meeting with Macron

European Parliament president Roberta Metsola said it was &ldquo;about damn time&rdquo; for European leaders to &ldquo;say that we are ready to put finally our money where our mouth is on Ukraine.&rdquo;
"This is something that we have been asking for a long time: that the European Union, that Europe is capable of standing up on its own two feet," she said.&nbsp;

Emergency Summit LIVE: 'About damn time,' EU Parliament president says 

German outgoing chancellor Olaf Scholz said that today's meeting is about ensuring continued support for Ukraine. He also stressed the importance of maintaining good relations with the US.&nbsp;

Emergency Summit LIVE: Germany's Scholz stresses, 'no dictated peace for Ukraine'

Polish prime minister Donald Tusk said, "it is a day when everything can change and probably will change, when it comes to Europe&rsquo;s determination when it comes to rearming [Europe] and the defence industry and our readiness to face this Russian challenge to the world.&rdquo;

Emergency Summit LIVE: Day when everything can change, Poland's Tusk says 

Ukrainian President Zelensky thanked European leaders for their &ldquo;strong support&rdquo; which he says he has seen &ldquo;from the very beginning of the war and &hellip; during all this period and last week, you stay[ed] with us.&rdquo;
"We are very thankful that we are not alone. And these are not just words. We feel it. It&rsquo;s very important you [sent] a strong signal to Ukrainian people, to Ukrainian warriors, to civilians, to all our families. And it&rsquo;s great that we are not alone," he said.&nbsp;

Emergency Summit LIVE: 'It's great we are not alone', says Zelensky 

As Zelensky arrived, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said it is &ldquo;a watershed&rdquo; moment for Europe and Ukraine as the continent &ldquo;faces a clear and present danger.&rdquo;

Emergency Summit LIVE: 'Watershed moment' for Europe and Ukraine, European Commission president says

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived to further hold talks about Ukraine's security and defence support from the European Union leaders.&nbsp;
As European Council president Ant&oacute;nio Costa flanked Zelensky, he said that the European leaders need to &ldquo;make decisions and deliver&rdquo; on their promises as they face the seriousness of the situation.
&ldquo;We are here to support Ukraine to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace,&rdquo; he added.

Emergency Summit LIVE: Ukrainian President Zelensky arrives at Summit

Emergency Summit HIGHLIGHTS | European summit, EU, Brussels: It comes as the US suspended military and intelligence support to Ukraine after the fiery conversation between the two leaders at the White House. 

Emergency Summit HIGHLIGHTS: The European Union leaders held emergency talks in Brussels, marking the first summit of 27 nations since the heated conversation happened last week between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Emergency Summit This comes as the US suspended military and intelligence support to Ukraine after the fiery conversation between the two leaders at the White House. The leaders are meeting in Brussels today to discuss €800bn plan to boost military capacity. Since the start of Russia’s military aggression, the EU and its member states have provided nearly €135 billion in support for Ukraine and its people. Moreover, the EU has also adopted sanctions against Russia, targeting vital areas of the Russian economy, including banking, Putin’s shadow fleet and goods and technologies in the industrial and energy sectors. Check all the highlights of EU Emergency Summit on WION

Emergency Summit HIGHLIGHTS: 'Conflict will unavoidably resume', Russia warns EU as leaders hold summit

US President Donald Trump will likely defer tariffs on Canada and Mexico for all goods and services under the USMCA trade agreement, said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.&nbsp;
He said that Trump is expected to take a decision, on Thursday (Mar 6), on the one-month exclusion from the 25 per cent tariffs imposed on both the countries.&nbsp;
"It's likely that it will cover all USMCA compliant goods and services, so that which is part of President Trump's deal with Canada and Mexico are likely to get an exemption from these tariffs," Lutnick told CNBC.
He said that he, along with Trump, will have a discussion with their Mexican counterparts on Thursday and that both Canada and Mexico have &ldquo;offered us an enormous amount of work on fentanyl.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/trump-imposes-canada-mexico-tariffs-as-trade-war-fears-mount-markets-sink-8777209">Also read: Trump imposes Canada, Mexico tariffs as trade war fears mount; markets sink</a>
<h2>Canada announces retaliatory tariffs for US</h2>
This comes after Canada said that it will impose tariffs on US imports starting Tuesday, in retaliation to the levies announced by Trump, said &nbsp;Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, highlighting that there's no justification for Washington's actions.
"Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered. Should American tariffs come into effect tonight, Canada will, effective 12:01 a.m. EST tomorrow, respond with 25 per cent tariffs against $155 billion of American goods &ndash; starting with tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and tariffs on the remaining $125 billion on American products in 21 days&rsquo; time," Trudeau said in a statement.
Canada's retaliation includes imposing 25% tariffs on C$30 billion worth of US goods from Tuesday (Mar 4), while tariffs on the remaining C$125 billion worth of products to follow in 21 days.
Trudeau, further in his statement, said that because of the tariffs imposed by Trump, the Americans will have to pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Because of the tariffs imposed by the U.S., Americans will pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs. Tariffs will disrupt an incredibly successful trading relationship. They will violate the very trade agreement that was negotiated by President Trump in his last term,&rdquo; the Canadian prime minister said.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: This comes after Canada said that it will impose tariffs on US imports starting Tuesday, in retaliation to the levies announced by Trump, said  Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, highlighting that there's no justification for Washington's actions.

US President Donald Trump will likely defer tariffs on Canada and Mexico for all goods and services under the USMCA trade agreement, said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. He said that Trump is expected to take a decision, on Thursday (Mar 6), on the one-month exclusion from the 25 per cent tariffs imposed on both the countries. "It's likely that it will cover all USMCA compliant goods and services, so that which is part of President Trump's deal with Canada and Mexico are likely to get an exemption from these tariffs," Lutnick told CNBC. He said that he, along with Trump, will have a discussion with their Mexican counterparts on Thursday and that both Canada and Mexico have “offered us an enormous amount of work on fentanyl.” Also read: Trump imposes Canada, Mexico tariffs as trade war fears mount; markets sink Canada announces retaliatory tariffs for US This comes after Canada said that it will impose tariffs on US imports starting Tuesday, in retaliation to the levies announced by Trump, said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, highlighting that there's no justification for Washington's actions. "Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered. Should American tariffs come into effect tonight, Canada will, effective 12:01 a.m. EST tomorrow, respond with 25 per cent tariffs against $155 billion of American goods – starting with tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and tariffs on the remaining $125 billion on American products in 21 days’ time," Trudeau said in a statement. Canada's retaliation includes imposing 25% tariffs on C$30 billion worth of US goods from Tuesday (Mar 4), while tariffs on the remaining C$125 billion worth of products to follow in 21 days. Trudeau, further in his statement, said that because of the tariffs imposed by Trump, the Americans will have to pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs. “Because of the tariffs imposed by the U.S., Americans will pay more for groceries, gas, and cars, and potentially lose thousands of jobs. Tariffs will disrupt an incredibly successful trading relationship. They will violate the very trade agreement that was negotiated by President Trump in his last term,” the Canadian prime minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump 'likely' to defer tariffs on goods under US-Mexico-Canada pact

Two South Korean Air Force fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs on a village during a joint training exercise with US forces on Thursday, officials said, with civilians among 15 people injured.
The Air Force KF-16 jets were participating in joint US-South Korea live-fire training exercises in Pocheon, about 25 kilometres (16 miles) south of the heavily fortified border with nuclear-armed North Korea, military and government officials said.
The two jets accidentally released eight MK-82 general-purpose bombs -- four each -- which landed "outside the designated firing range", the Air Force said.
"The pilot appears to have entered incorrect coordinates during the pre-flight preparation process," an Air Force official told reporters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-yo-jong-slams-show-of-force-after-us-aircraft-carrier-visits-south-korea-8775998">North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams show of force after US aircraft carrier visits South Korea</a>
One Pocheon resident told Yonhap news agency he was watching television when he heard the bombs explode.
"I suddenly heard an enormous explosion, like a thunderclap, and the whole house shook," said the resident, who gave only his surname Park.
"When I went outside, everything was in chaos," he said.
The two aircraft were meant to fire simultaneously at a target as part of the exercise, the Air Force official said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-birth-rate-rose-last-year-first-time-in-a-decade-8757549">South Korea birth rate rose last year, first time in a decade</a>
"It is believed that the first pilot entered incorrect coordinates, leading the second aircraft to drop its munitions as well."
A defence ministry official said an investigation was underway.
"We deeply regret the unintended release of the bombs, which resulted in civilian casualties, and wish those injured a swift recovery," the Air Force said in an earlier statement.
It said it would "take all necessary measures, including compensation for damages".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-yo-jong-slams-show-of-force-after-us-aircraft-carrier-visits-south-korea-8775998">North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams show of force after US aircraft carrier visits South Korea</a>
South Korea's National Fire Agency said the bombs had "fallen on a village during a South Korea-US joint exercise".
That resulted in "casualties and property damage, with many displaced residents", it said.
Fifteen people were injured, including civilians and military personnel, the agency said.
One church building and sections of two houses were damaged, according to an agency statement.
<h2><hl2>'Simply unimaginable' </hl2></h2>
The mayor of Pocheon demanded that all military exercises cease until preventive measures were made.
"While there have been accidents where bullets bounced off targets and landed elsewhere, it is simply unimaginable that an aircraft would directly fire at civilian homes," said mayor Baek Young-hyeun.
Baek told reporters that "until a thorough and acceptable safety plan is established to the satisfaction of Pocheon residents, all military exercises must be suspended".
"I strongly urge the government to recognise the gravity of this incident and act swiftly in response," Baek said.
The blast was felt at a centre for seniors about a kilometre away.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-yo-jong-slams-show-of-force-after-us-aircraft-carrier-visits-south-korea-8775998">North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams show of force after US aircraft carrier visits South Korea</a>
"A sudden explosion shook the building. The windows shattered, and one of our teachers was injured and taken to the hospital," the centre's director, surnamed Yu, told Yonhap.
"Fortunately, none of the seniors were hurt but they were so frightened that we sent them all home," Yu said.
The South Korea-US "Freedom Shield" military exercises, one of the allies' largest annual joint exercises, are set to begin later this month.
The two Koreas remain technically at war since their 1950-1953 conflict ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty.
The United States stations tens of thousands of soldiers in the South, in part to protect Seoul against Pyongyang.
In 2022, a South Korean Hyunmu-2 short-range ballistic missile accidentally crashed into a military golf course in the South's eastern Gangwon province, after it was fired in response to a North Korean missile launch.
The missile did not explode and no one was injured in that incident.
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 two jets accidentally released eight MK-82 general-purpose bombs -- four each -- which landed "outside the designated firing range", the Air Force said.

Two South Korean Air Force fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs on a village during a joint training exercise with US forces on Thursday, officials said, with civilians among 15 people injured. The Air Force KF-16 jets were participating in joint US-South Korea live-fire training exercises in Pocheon, about 25 kilometres (16 miles) south of the heavily fortified border with nuclear-armed North Korea, military and government officials said. The two jets accidentally released eight MK-82 general-purpose bombs -- four each -- which landed "outside the designated firing range", the Air Force said. "The pilot appears to have entered incorrect coordinates during the pre-flight preparation process," an Air Force official told reporters. Also read: North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams show of force after US aircraft carrier visits South Korea One Pocheon resident told Yonhap news agency he was watching television when he heard the bombs explode. "I suddenly heard an enormous explosion, like a thunderclap, and the whole house shook," said the resident, who gave only his surname Park. "When I went outside, everything was in chaos," he said. The two aircraft were meant to fire simultaneously at a target as part of the exercise, the Air Force official said. Also read: South Korea birth rate rose last year, first time in a decade "It is believed that the first pilot entered incorrect coordinates, leading the second aircraft to drop its munitions as well." A defence ministry official said an investigation was underway. "We deeply regret the unintended release of the bombs, which resulted in civilian casualties, and wish those injured a swift recovery," the Air Force said in an earlier statement. It said it would "take all necessary measures, including compensation for damages". Also read: North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams show of force after US aircraft carrier visits South Korea South Korea's National Fire Agency said the bombs had "fallen on a village during a South Korea-US joint exercise". That resulted in "casualties and property damage, with many displaced residents", it said. Fifteen people were injured, including civilians and military personnel, the agency said. One church building and sections of two houses were damaged, according to an agency statement. 'Simply unimaginable' The mayor of Pocheon demanded that all military exercises cease until preventive measures were made. "While there have been accidents where bullets bounced off targets and landed elsewhere, it is simply unimaginable that an aircraft would directly fire at civilian homes," said mayor Baek Young-hyeun. Baek told reporters that "until a thorough and acceptable safety plan is established to the satisfaction of Pocheon residents, all military exercises must be suspended". "I strongly urge the government to recognise the gravity of this incident and act swiftly in response," Baek said. The blast was felt at a centre for seniors about a kilometre away. Also read: North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams show of force after US aircraft carrier visits South Korea "A sudden explosion shook the building. The windows shattered, and one of our teachers was injured and taken to the hospital," the centre's director, surnamed Yu, told Yonhap. "Fortunately, none of the seniors were hurt but they were so frightened that we sent them all home," Yu said. The South Korea-US "Freedom Shield" military exercises, one of the allies' largest annual joint exercises, are set to begin later this month. The two Koreas remain technically at war since their 1950-1953 conflict ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty. The United States stations tens of thousands of soldiers in the South, in part to protect Seoul against Pyongyang. In 2022, a South Korean Hyunmu-2 short-range ballistic missile accidentally crashed into a military golf course in the South's eastern Gangwon province, after it was fired in response to a North Korean missile launch. The missile did not explode and no one was injured in that incident. 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.

South Korea fighter jets accidentally drop bombs on civilian district, 15 injured

Amid US President Donald Trump taking stern actions against immigrants, people from Pakistan and Afghanistan could be barred from entering the US, according to a Reuters report.
Trump is reportedly planning to impose a travel ban on the two nations over security and vetting risks.&nbsp;
Moreover, the Trump administration has prepared a list of nations for the travel ban based on a government review of countries' security and vetting risks.&nbsp;
"Other countries could also be on the list," Reuters reported citing sources.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-taking-this-matter-lightly-lesotho-over-trumps-remarks-during-congress-address-8828272">Trump speech: Lesotho pushes back, NZ pulls envoy over remarks</a>
This reminds of Trump's first term ban on travellers from seven majority-Muslim nations. His policy at that time suffered several iterations before it was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.&nbsp;
Former President Joe Biden repealed the ban in 2021, calling it "a stain on our national conscience."
Moreover, the sources speaking on the condition of anonymity also indicated that other countries might also be included in the ban, however, it did not specify which countries.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2021-kabul-airport-attack-donald-trump-praises-pakistan-for-arrest-of-alleged-plotter-8794220">Trump speech: US president praises Pakistan for arrest of alleged plotter of 2021 Kabul airport attack</a>
The new restrictions by Trump, if executed, could have major consequences for tens of thousands of Afghans who have cleared for resettlement in the US under refugee programmes or Special Immigrant Visas.&nbsp;
Earlier on January 20, the US president signed an executive order requiring stricter security screening for foreigners seeking entry into the US, citing national security concerns.&nbsp;
Trump's order further directed multiple government agencies to submit a list of nations by March 12, whose vetting processes are deemed inadequate, and could lead to partial or full travel suspensions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mohammad-sharifullah-top-terrorist-involved-in-kabul-airport-bombing-apprehended-by-us-8813833">Mohammad Sharifullah, key suspect in 2021 Kabul airport bombing, in US custody. Who is he?</a>
However, no official statement has been issued so far.&nbsp;
But, according to a previous report, the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts, the office that oversees this task, has been told to develop a plan by April for its closure.&nbsp;
Shawn VanDiver, the head of #AfghanEvac, a coalition of groups that coordinates evacuation and resettlement of Afghans with the American government, urged those holding valid US visas to travel as soon as possible if they can.
"While no official announcement has been made, multiple sources within the U.S. government suggest a new travel restriction could be implemented within the next week," he said in a statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-man-at-the-right-time-world-reacts-after-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-to-hamas-8828584">'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Trump administration has prepared a list of nations for the travel ban based on a government review of countries' security and vetting risks.

Amid US President Donald Trump taking stern actions against immigrants, people from Pakistan and Afghanistan could be barred from entering the US, according to a Reuters report. Trump is reportedly planning to impose a travel ban on the two nations over security and vetting risks. Moreover, the Trump administration has prepared a list of nations for the travel ban based on a government review of countries' security and vetting risks. "Other countries could also be on the list," Reuters reported citing sources. Also read: Trump speech: Lesotho pushes back, NZ pulls envoy over remarks This reminds of Trump's first term ban on travellers from seven majority-Muslim nations. His policy at that time suffered several iterations before it was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018. Former President Joe Biden repealed the ban in 2021, calling it "a stain on our national conscience." Moreover, the sources speaking on the condition of anonymity also indicated that other countries might also be included in the ban, however, it did not specify which countries. Also read: Trump speech: US president praises Pakistan for arrest of alleged plotter of 2021 Kabul airport attack The new restrictions by Trump, if executed, could have major consequences for tens of thousands of Afghans who have cleared for resettlement in the US under refugee programmes or Special Immigrant Visas. Earlier on January 20, the US president signed an executive order requiring stricter security screening for foreigners seeking entry into the US, citing national security concerns. Trump's order further directed multiple government agencies to submit a list of nations by March 12, whose vetting processes are deemed inadequate, and could lead to partial or full travel suspensions. Also read: Mohammad Sharifullah, key suspect in 2021 Kabul airport bombing, in US custody. Who is he? However, no official statement has been issued so far. But, according to a previous report, the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts, the office that oversees this task, has been told to develop a plan by April for its closure. Shawn VanDiver, the head of #AfghanEvac, a coalition of groups that coordinates evacuation and resettlement of Afghans with the American government, urged those holding valid US visas to travel as soon as possible if they can. "While no official announcement has been made, multiple sources within the U.S. government suggest a new travel restriction could be implemented within the next week," he said in a statement. Also read: 'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas (With inputs from agencies)

Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US?

US President Donald Trump gave his first address to Congress since his return to the White House at the US Capitol on Tuesday (Mar 4). During his speech he also spoke on some world issues that were not well accepted.
The South African nation Lesotho expressed its shock at the US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s remarks that &ldquo;nobody has ever heard of&rdquo; the country. While New Zealand&rsquo;s most senior diplomat in London lost his job over remarks he made about the US President.
<h2>South African nation Lesotho hits back</h2>
During his first address to the US Congress since his return to the White House, the president defended the sweeping cuts in aid made by his administration.
&ldquo;Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,&rdquo; Trump said during his speech at the US Capitol on Tuesday (Mar 4), earning laughs from some US lawmakers.
According to AFP, foreign minister, Lesotho's Lejone Mpotjoane on Wednesday (Mar 5) said that their government was &ldquo;shocked and embarrassed&rdquo; by the comments made by Trump.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-trump-bid-to-freeze-2-bn-in-foreign-aid-8821879">US Supreme Court rejects Trump bid to freeze $2 bn in foreign aid</a>
American volunteers serve in the popular Peace Corps programme and the US has an embassy in the capital of the country, Maseru.
&ldquo;We did not expect a head of state to refer to another sovereign nation in such a manner,&rdquo; Mpotjoane said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-planning-something-new-gulf-of-america-map-in-oval-office-sparks-online-debate-8827967">Trump planning something new? 'Gulf of America' map in Oval Office sparks online debate</a>
&ldquo;We are not taking this matter lightly,&rdquo; he added. He further said that they would be sending an official protest letter to Washington.
The country&rsquo;s main LGBTQ rights organisation denied claims made by Trump of receiving funds from Washington, and the program he referred to is unclear.
&ldquo;We are literally not receiving grants from the US,&rdquo; People&rsquo;s Matrix spokesperson Tampose Mothopeng said.
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&ldquo;We have no idea of the allocation of eight million [dollars]&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
<h2>US aid to Lesotho</h2>
According to the US government foreign assistance website, there was no financial support provided for LGBTQ rights in Lesotho. However, it suggested that about $120m had been spent on &ldquo;health and population&rdquo; programmes in the country in 2024, including $43.5m for HIV/Aids.
Lesotho, a country with 2.3 million population, is second-highest in terms of dealing with HIV infections globally, with nearly one in four adults HIV-positive. According to the US embassy, the US has committed over $630m to anti-HIV/Aids efforts in the country since 2006.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-carry-out-first-execution-by-firing-squad-in-15-years-as-south-carolina-supreme-court-rejects-brad-sigmons-appeal-8821594">US set to carry out first execution by firing squad in 15 years; Brad Sigmon' to be executed on March 7 in South Carolina</a>
Last month, more than 30 non-governmental organisations warned that the country&rsquo;s HIV programmes were at risk of collapse following a freeze of US foreign aid.
<h2>New Zealand diplomat fired</h2>
Phil Goff, who is New Zealand&rsquo;s High Commissioner to the UK, lost his job for making comments on Trump at an event held by the international affairs think tank Chatham House in London on Tuesday (Mar 4).
As posed a question to the guest speaker, Finland&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, he mentioned re-reading a famous speech by former British wartime leader Winston Churchill from 1938.
Goff quoted Churchill as saying to then-prime minister Neville Chamberlain, &ldquo;You had the choice between war and dishonor. You chose dishonor, yet you will have war,&rdquo; referring to Britain&rsquo;s signing of the Munich Agreement with Adolf Hitler that allowed Germany to annex part of Czechoslovakia.
Goff then asked Valtonen, &ldquo;President Trump has restored the bust of Churchill to the Oval Office. But do you think he really understands history?&rdquo;
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said that Goff&rsquo;s remarks were &ldquo;disappointing&rdquo; and made the envoy&rsquo;s position &ldquo;untenable.&rdquo;
&ldquo;When you are in that position you represent the government and the policies of the day,&rdquo; Peters said adding, &ldquo;You&rsquo;re not able to free think, you are the face of New Zealand.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | During his first address to the US Congress since his return to the White House, Trump defended the sweeping cuts in aid made by his administration.

US President Donald Trump gave his first address to Congress since his return to the White House at the US Capitol on Tuesday (Mar 4). During his speech he also spoke on some world issues that were not well accepted. The South African nation Lesotho expressed its shock at the US President Donald Trump’s remarks that “nobody has ever heard of” the country. While New Zealand’s most senior diplomat in London lost his job over remarks he made about the US President. South African nation Lesotho hits back During his first address to the US Congress since his return to the White House, the president defended the sweeping cuts in aid made by his administration. “Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,” Trump said during his speech at the US Capitol on Tuesday (Mar 4), earning laughs from some US lawmakers. According to AFP, foreign minister, Lesotho's Lejone Mpotjoane on Wednesday (Mar 5) said that their government was “shocked and embarrassed” by the comments made by Trump. Also read | US Supreme Court rejects Trump bid to freeze $2 bn in foreign aid American volunteers serve in the popular Peace Corps programme and the US has an embassy in the capital of the country, Maseru. “We did not expect a head of state to refer to another sovereign nation in such a manner,” Mpotjoane said. Also read | Trump planning something new? 'Gulf of America' map in Oval Office sparks online debate “We are not taking this matter lightly,” he added. He further said that they would be sending an official protest letter to Washington. The country’s main LGBTQ rights organisation denied claims made by Trump of receiving funds from Washington, and the program he referred to is unclear. “We are literally not receiving grants from the US,” People’s Matrix spokesperson Tampose Mothopeng said. Also read | 13-year-old US Secret Service agent, DJ Daniel gives Trump 'a big hug', video goes viral “We have no idea of the allocation of eight million [dollars]” he said. US aid to Lesotho According to the US government foreign assistance website, there was no financial support provided for LGBTQ rights in Lesotho. However, it suggested that about $120m had been spent on “health and population” programmes in the country in 2024, including $43.5m for HIV/Aids. Lesotho, a country with 2.3 million population, is second-highest in terms of dealing with HIV infections globally, with nearly one in four adults HIV-positive. According to the US embassy, the US has committed over $630m to anti-HIV/Aids efforts in the country since 2006. Also read | US set to carry out first execution by firing squad in 15 years; Brad Sigmon' to be executed on March 7 in South Carolina Last month, more than 30 non-governmental organisations warned that the country’s HIV programmes were at risk of collapse following a freeze of US foreign aid. New Zealand diplomat fired Phil Goff, who is New Zealand’s High Commissioner to the UK, lost his job for making comments on Trump at an event held by the international affairs think tank Chatham House in London on Tuesday (Mar 4). As posed a question to the guest speaker, Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, he mentioned re-reading a famous speech by former British wartime leader Winston Churchill from 1938. Goff quoted Churchill as saying to then-prime minister Neville Chamberlain, “You had the choice between war and dishonor. You chose dishonor, yet you will have war,” referring to Britain’s signing of the Munich Agreement with Adolf Hitler that allowed Germany to annex part of Czechoslovakia. Goff then asked Valtonen, “President Trump has restored the bust of Churchill to the Oval Office. But do you think he really understands history?” Foreign Minister Winston Peters said that Goff’s remarks were “disappointing” and made the envoy’s position “untenable.” “When you are in that position you represent the government and the policies of the day,” Peters said adding, “You’re not able to free think, you are the face of New Zealand.” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump speech: Lesotho hits back, NZ pulls up envoy over remarks

US President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order to dismantle the Education Department, according to US media reports.
The order, which could be signed as soon as Thursday (Mar 6), would instruct the newly appointed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to dismantle the department as the administration seeks to shrink the federal government.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-man-at-the-right-time-world-reacts-after-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-to-hamas-8828584">'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas</a>
According to a Wall Street Journal report, a draft of the executive order directs McMahon to &ldquo;take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Education Department&rdquo; based on &ldquo;the maximum extent appropriate and permitted by law.&rdquo;
Trump has expressed intentions of closing the department long before he assumed the office, as promised to decentralise education in the country during his campaign. He said that he would transfer the department&rsquo;s power to the state government.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-trump-cartoon-controversy-madras-hc-orders-centre-to-lift-ban-on-website-of-vikatan-8828304">Modi-Trump cartoon controversy: Madras HC orders Centre to lift ban on website of Vikatan</a>
<h2>Can Trump dismantle Education Department?</h2>
The US Department of Education was established in 1979 under former president Jimmy Carter. As per US law, the department cannot be dismantled without Congress passing an act with 60 votes in favour in the Senate.&nbsp;
However, like several other federal agencies, Trump&rsquo;s administration could dramatically cut the staff and programs in the Education Department.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-planning-something-new-gulf-of-america-map-in-oval-office-sparks-online-debate-8827967">Trump planning something new? 'Gulf of America' map in Oval Office sparks online debate</a>
Trump&rsquo;s threat to shut down the department has sparked outrage from Democrats, teachers' unions and many parents, who view it as an attack on the public education system.
At a Senate education committee hearing last month, McMahon said that &ldquo;the excessive consolidation of power&rdquo; in the US was damaging education.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-taking-this-matter-lightly-lesotho-over-trumps-remarks-during-congress-address-8828272">&lsquo;Not taking this matter lightly&rsquo;: Lesotho over Trump's remarks during Congress address</a>
&ldquo;So what's the remedy? Fund education freedom, not government,&rdquo; she said.
According to The Washington Post, McMahon and other officials have suggested transfer of some of the department&rsquo;s functions to other government agencies in an effort to dismantle it. Although this may lead to legal challenges.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The order, which could be signed as soon as Thursday (Mar 6), would instruct the newly appointed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to dismantle the department as the administration seeks to shrink the federal government.

US President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order to dismantle the Education Department, according to US media reports. The order, which could be signed as soon as Thursday (Mar 6), would instruct the newly appointed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to dismantle the department as the administration seeks to shrink the federal government. Also read | 'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas According to a Wall Street Journal report, a draft of the executive order directs McMahon to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Education Department” based on “the maximum extent appropriate and permitted by law.” Trump has expressed intentions of closing the department long before he assumed the office, as promised to decentralise education in the country during his campaign. He said that he would transfer the department’s power to the state government. Also read | Modi-Trump cartoon controversy: Madras HC orders Centre to lift ban on website of Vikatan Can Trump dismantle Education Department? The US Department of Education was established in 1979 under former president Jimmy Carter. As per US law, the department cannot be dismantled without Congress passing an act with 60 votes in favour in the Senate. However, like several other federal agencies, Trump’s administration could dramatically cut the staff and programs in the Education Department. Also read | Trump planning something new? 'Gulf of America' map in Oval Office sparks online debate Trump’s threat to shut down the department has sparked outrage from Democrats, teachers' unions and many parents, who view it as an attack on the public education system. At a Senate education committee hearing last month, McMahon said that “the excessive consolidation of power” in the US was damaging education. Also read | ‘Not taking this matter lightly’: Lesotho over Trump's remarks during Congress address “So what's the remedy? Fund education freedom, not government,” she said. According to The Washington Post, McMahon and other officials have suggested transfer of some of the department’s functions to other government agencies in an effort to dismantle it. Although this may lead to legal challenges. (With inputs from agencies)

Can Trump dismantle Education Department with executive order?

Israeli and international leaders have been reacting to US President Donald Trump's warning to Hamas, expressing support for Trump's readiness to take action against the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;
David Friedman, who served as an envoy to Israel said that he loves the US president, calling him the "right person".
&ldquo;I love this guy. The right message by the right person at the right time!," Friedman said.&nbsp;
<h2>What was Trump's ultimatum?</h2>
After a White House meeting with six released Israeli hostages, Trump posted a stern warning to the terror group.&nbsp;
"Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. He also threatened that there would be "hell to pay" if the hostages were not released.
"This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance," Trump warned in his message.&nbsp;
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich thanked US President Trump for his commitment to Israel's security.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-us-holds-direct-talks-with-hamas-over-hostage-release-macron-proposes-french-nuclear-extension-and-more-8821458">Morning News Brief: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release; Macron proposes French nuclear extension, and more</a>
"Thank you, Mr. President, for your commitment to Israel&rsquo;s security and the security of the entire free world and for your concern for the return of all our hostages to their homes," Smotrich said in a post on X.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, former US Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt said that Trump's methods may be different for some but they get real results, "especially in the tough world we live in".&nbsp;
US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham shared a post on X, saying "This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world."
He expressed solidarity with Trump and said that this ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden Administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-direct-talks-with-hamas-over-hostage-release-amid-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-8821204">US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning</a>
"Mr. President: You are right to say it and It&rsquo;s imperative you do it if Hamas refuses," he stressed.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>, you have my complete and total support. This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world. This ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/VsCjXJITnT">pic.twitter.com/VsCjXJITnT</a>
&mdash; Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1897413743149015190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-reconstruction-plan-rejected-by-israel-and-us-but-backed-by-hamas-heres-all-you-need-to-know-8796605">Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know</a>
Israel's former national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said that the government must embrace Trump's proposal and stop bypassing him from the left.&nbsp;
"Release all our hostages immediately, or absolute hell immediately," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-year-old-us-secret-service-agent-dj-daniel-gives-trump-a-big-hug-video-goes-viral-8821647">13-year-old US Secret Service agent, DJ Daniel gives Trump 'a big hug', video goes viral</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said, "This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world."

Israeli and international leaders have been reacting to US President Donald Trump's warning to Hamas, expressing support for Trump's readiness to take action against the Palestinian militant group. David Friedman, who served as an envoy to Israel said that he loves the US president, calling him the "right person". “I love this guy. The right message by the right person at the right time!," Friedman said. What was Trump's ultimatum? After a White House meeting with six released Israeli hostages, Trump posted a stern warning to the terror group. "Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. He also threatened that there would be "hell to pay" if the hostages were not released. "This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance," Trump warned in his message. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich thanked US President Trump for his commitment to Israel's security. Also read: Morning News Brief: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release; Macron proposes French nuclear extension, and more "Thank you, Mr. President, for your commitment to Israel’s security and the security of the entire free world and for your concern for the return of all our hostages to their homes," Smotrich said in a post on X. Meanwhile, former US Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt said that Trump's methods may be different for some but they get real results, "especially in the tough world we live in". US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham shared a post on X, saying "This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world." He expressed solidarity with Trump and said that this ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden Administration. Also read: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning "Mr. President: You are right to say it and It’s imperative you do it if Hamas refuses," he stressed. President @realDonaldTrump, you have my complete and total support. This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world. This ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden… pic.twitter.com/VsCjXJITnT — Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) March 5, 2025 Also read: Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know Israel's former national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said that the government must embrace Trump's proposal and stop bypassing him from the left. "Release all our hostages immediately, or absolute hell immediately," he added. Also read: 13-year-old US Secret Service agent, DJ Daniel gives Trump 'a big hug', video goes viral (With inputs from agencies)

'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas

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