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A new bill aimed at restoring democracy in Pakistan and holding its top officials accountable is set to be introduced in the US House of Representatives.&nbsp;
Proposed by Congressman Joe Wilson, the Pakistan Democracy Act includes strong steps that could impact US-Pakistan relations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-a-failed-state-that-survives-on-handouts-and-instability-india-at-un-8760190" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and thrives on instability': India At UN</a>
<h2>Key features of Pakistan Democracy Act</h2>
The bill emphasises Washington&rsquo;s commitment to promoting democratic governance in Pakistan. It proposes a 30-day review period to assess potential sanctions against Pakistan&rsquo;s Army Chief, Asim Munir. This marks the first time sanctions have been proposed against a sitting Pakistani military leader.
Additionally, the legislation calls for a comprehensive review of all Pakistani generals, government officials, and their families to determine their eligibility for sanctions. This broad approach reflects an effort to counter any actions that undermine democracy.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pakistans-7-billion-imf-bailout-review-due-8760117">Pakistan's $7 billion IMF bailout review due</a>
Congressman Wilson first announced his intention to introduce the bill on February 13, stating on X that it would seek to ban entry into the US for those in Pakistan&rsquo;s military government responsible for Imran Khan&rsquo;s persecution and imprisonment.
Wilson outlined the bill&rsquo;s main points in another X post on Wednesday (Feb 26), saying that it:
<ul>
<li>Establishes US policy to restore democracy in Pakistan</li>
<li>Mandates a 30-day determination of sanctions on senior Pakistani officials</li>
<li>Reviews all senior officials and their families for possible sanctions</li>
</ul>
A section of the bill shared by Wilson says that it aims to authorise sanctions against foreign individuals who have knowingly engaged in the wrongful persecution and imprisonment of political opponents in Pakistan.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-criticises-military-in-an-open-letter-to-army-chief-gen-asim-munir-8704393">Imran Khan criticises military in an open letter to Army chief Gen Asim Munir</a>
<h2>Joe Wilson&rsquo;s demand for Imran Khan&rsquo;s release</h2>
Separately, Joe Wilson and fellow Congressman August Pfluger have written to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging him to engage with Pakistan&rsquo;s government to secure the release of former PM Imran Khan.
Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been in jail since August 2023 over a series of legal cases, which he claims are politically motivated. Wilson has repeatedly called for his release, posting on X that he and Pfluger were pressing Rubio to "free Imran Khan and work to restore democracy in Pakistan".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-play-hero-widows-children-mourn-as-hamas-returns-four-israeli-hostages-bodies-who-were-they-8762319">'Don&rsquo;t play hero': Widows, children mourn as Hamas returns four Israeli hostages' bodies - Who were they?</a>
In their letter dated February 25, the congressmen described Imran as "widely beloved in Pakistan", arguing that his release could usher in a new era of US-Pakistan relations. 
The letter further added that Imran Khan has suffered judicial abuse similar to that faced by President Donald Trump, adding that he was imprisoned on "trumped-up charges".
(With inputs from agencies)

World South Asia Pakistan: Proposed by Congressman Joe Wilson, the Pakistan Democracy Act includes strong steps to restore democracy that could impact US-Pakistan relations.

A new bill aimed at restoring democracy in Pakistan and holding its top officials accountable is set to be introduced in the US House of Representatives. Proposed by Congressman Joe Wilson, the Pakistan Democracy Act includes strong steps that could impact US-Pakistan relations. Also read: 'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and thrives on instability': India At UN Key features of Pakistan Democracy Act The bill emphasises Washington’s commitment to promoting democratic governance in Pakistan. It proposes a 30-day review period to assess potential sanctions against Pakistan’s Army Chief, Asim Munir. This marks the first time sanctions have been proposed against a sitting Pakistani military leader. Additionally, the legislation calls for a comprehensive review of all Pakistani generals, government officials, and their families to determine their eligibility for sanctions. This broad approach reflects an effort to counter any actions that undermine democracy. Also read: Pakistan's $7 billion IMF bailout review due Congressman Wilson first announced his intention to introduce the bill on February 13, stating on X that it would seek to ban entry into the US for those in Pakistan’s military government responsible for Imran Khan’s persecution and imprisonment. Wilson outlined the bill’s main points in another X post on Wednesday (Feb 26), saying that it: Establishes US policy to restore democracy in Pakistan Mandates a 30-day determination of sanctions on senior Pakistani officials Reviews all senior officials and their families for possible sanctions A section of the bill shared by Wilson says that it aims to authorise sanctions against foreign individuals who have knowingly engaged in the wrongful persecution and imprisonment of political opponents in Pakistan. Also read: Imran Khan criticises military in an open letter to Army chief Gen Asim Munir Joe Wilson’s demand for Imran Khan’s release Separately, Joe Wilson and fellow Congressman August Pfluger have written to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging him to engage with Pakistan’s government to secure the release of former PM Imran Khan. Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been in jail since August 2023 over a series of legal cases, which he claims are politically motivated. Wilson has repeatedly called for his release, posting on X that he and Pfluger were pressing Rubio to "free Imran Khan and work to restore democracy in Pakistan". Also read: 'Don’t play hero': Widows, children mourn as Hamas returns four Israeli hostages' bodies - Who were they? In their letter dated February 25, the congressmen described Imran as "widely beloved in Pakistan", arguing that his release could usher in a new era of US-Pakistan relations. The letter further added that Imran Khan has suffered judicial abuse similar to that faced by President Donald Trump, adding that he was imprisoned on "trumped-up charges". (With inputs from agencies)

What is the Pakistan Democracy Act? US bill targeting Pakistan’s military over political crackdowns

Israeli authorities on Thursday (Feb 27) confirmed the identities of the four Israeli hostages whose remains were handed over by Hamas. The Palestinian militant group exchanged the remains of hostages for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal that has brought a halt to the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;
Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents the hostages&rsquo; families, said it had &ldquo;received with profound sorrow the news about the identification of Itzik Elgarat, Tsachi Idan, Shlomo Mansour, and Ohad Yahalomi.&rdquo; It added that all four men were murdered.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-no-choice-but-to-start-ceasefire-2nd-phase-negotiations-8760350">Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations</a>
The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which came into effect on January 19, provided for the release of 33 hostages, including eight dead bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel.
Five Thai hostages were also released outside the scope of the agreement.
<h2>Who are the hostages identified?</h2>
<h3>Ohad Yahalomi, 49</h3>
A French-Israeli national, Ohad Yahalomi, was taken from his home in Nir Oz kibbutz. His 12-year-old son Eitan was also abducted by Hamas separately and was released in November 2023. He has been described as an outdoors lover and an expert on scorpions.
His wife, Bat-Sheva Yahalomi, said that their family sought shelter in the safe room, but her husband was guarding the outside with a gun as the door would not close. He was wounded and taken hostage from outside their home.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
The attackers also tried to take her and their two daughters, but they managed to escape.
A group allied to Hamas announced that Ohad Yahalomi was dead in January 2024, however, the information was not confirmed by the Israeli army. Until the exchange late Wednesday (Feb 26), he had been listed as alive.
<h3>Tsachi Idan, 49</h3>
Tsachi Idan, who lived in Nahal Oz kibbutz, was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, 2023. He hid with his wife, Gali Idan, and three of their four children in their safe room.&nbsp;
His 18-year-old daughter Maayan Idan was shot dead in front of him when the attackers shot through the door. The attack was broadcast live on Facebook by the militant group.
&ldquo;He will come back,&rdquo; his abductors told his family while taking him away.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-officials-say-4-israel-hostage-bodies-to-be-exchanged-for-palestinian-prisoners-thursday-8758543">Hamas says will hand over bodies of four Israeli hostages 'tonight'</a>
&ldquo;I love you,&rdquo; his wife said. &ldquo;Don't play the hero, be smart. Take care of yourself and come back to me in one piece.&rdquo;
Idan had also been listed as alive until Wednesday. Before being seized by Hamas, he worked as an IT systems developer for restaurants.
<h3>Itzik Elgarat, 68</h3>
A Danish-Israeli, Itzik Elgarat, was captured by Hamas after being shot in the hand during the attack on his kibbutz, Nir Oz, according to his brother Daniel Elgarat.&nbsp;
His brother was the last person who was in contact with him. His phone showed it was in Gaza.
Elgarat lived in Denmark for 12 years, where his two children live, and had visited them shortly before the attack. He was a fan of the Maccabi Tel Aviv football team and had been listed as alive until Wednesday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-hamas-war-israel-withdrawal-from-philadelphi-corridor-in-gaza-8762182">Days before ceasefire ends, Israel says it won&rsquo;t withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza</a>
<h3>Shlomo Mansour, 85</h3>
Born in Iraq, Shlomo Mansour was one of the founders of the henhouse in Kissufim kibbutz and took care of it for many years. He was abducted from this small community on October 7, 2023.
His wife, Mazal Mansour, with whom he lived for 60 years, managed to escape.&nbsp;
A handyman, he had five children and enjoyed gardening and repairing his grandchildren's toys.
In February 2024, Israel confirmed that Mansour had been killed on October 7, 2023, and that his body had been taken to the Gaza Strip.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Middle East: The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which came into effect on January 19, provided for the release of 33 hostages, including eight dead bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel.

Israeli authorities on Thursday (Feb 27) confirmed the identities of the four Israeli hostages whose remains were handed over by Hamas. The Palestinian militant group exchanged the remains of hostages for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal that has brought a halt to the Israel-Hamas war. Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents the hostages’ families, said it had “received with profound sorrow the news about the identification of Itzik Elgarat, Tsachi Idan, Shlomo Mansour, and Ohad Yahalomi.” It added that all four men were murdered. Also read | Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which came into effect on January 19, provided for the release of 33 hostages, including eight dead bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel. Five Thai hostages were also released outside the scope of the agreement. Who are the hostages identified? Ohad Yahalomi, 49 A French-Israeli national, Ohad Yahalomi, was taken from his home in Nir Oz kibbutz. His 12-year-old son Eitan was also abducted by Hamas separately and was released in November 2023. He has been described as an outdoors lover and an expert on scorpions. His wife, Bat-Sheva Yahalomi, said that their family sought shelter in the safe room, but her husband was guarding the outside with a gun as the door would not close. He was wounded and taken hostage from outside their home. Also read | Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu The attackers also tried to take her and their two daughters, but they managed to escape. A group allied to Hamas announced that Ohad Yahalomi was dead in January 2024, however, the information was not confirmed by the Israeli army. Until the exchange late Wednesday (Feb 26), he had been listed as alive. Tsachi Idan, 49 Tsachi Idan, who lived in Nahal Oz kibbutz, was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, 2023. He hid with his wife, Gali Idan, and three of their four children in their safe room. His 18-year-old daughter Maayan Idan was shot dead in front of him when the attackers shot through the door. The attack was broadcast live on Facebook by the militant group. “He will come back,” his abductors told his family while taking him away. Also read | Hamas says will hand over bodies of four Israeli hostages 'tonight' “I love you,” his wife said. “Don't play the hero, be smart. Take care of yourself and come back to me in one piece.” Idan had also been listed as alive until Wednesday. Before being seized by Hamas, he worked as an IT systems developer for restaurants. Itzik Elgarat, 68 A Danish-Israeli, Itzik Elgarat, was captured by Hamas after being shot in the hand during the attack on his kibbutz, Nir Oz, according to his brother Daniel Elgarat. His brother was the last person who was in contact with him. His phone showed it was in Gaza. Elgarat lived in Denmark for 12 years, where his two children live, and had visited them shortly before the attack. He was a fan of the Maccabi Tel Aviv football team and had been listed as alive until Wednesday. Also read | Days before ceasefire ends, Israel says it won’t withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza Shlomo Mansour, 85 Born in Iraq, Shlomo Mansour was one of the founders of the henhouse in Kissufim kibbutz and took care of it for many years. He was abducted from this small community on October 7, 2023. His wife, Mazal Mansour, with whom he lived for 60 years, managed to escape. A handyman, he had five children and enjoyed gardening and repairing his grandchildren's toys. In February 2024, Israel confirmed that Mansour had been killed on October 7, 2023, and that his body had been taken to the Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Don’t play hero’: Widows, children mourn as Hamas returns four Israeli hostages’ bodies - Who were they?

Israel has no plans to pull out from the Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza, despite the terms of the ceasefire agreement, an official told CNN on Thursday (Feb 27).
&ldquo;We will not exit the Philadelphi Corridor. We will not allow Hamas murderers to roam again with trucks and rifles on our borders, and we will not let them strengthen themselves again through smuggling,&rdquo; the source told CNN.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-no-choice-but-to-start-ceasefire-2nd-phase-negotiations-8760350">Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations</a>
Under the ceasefire deal, Israel was expected to start withdrawing from the corridor on Saturday, the final day of the first phase, and complete the process within eight days.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday vowed to work "relentlessly" to bring back all the hostages held in Gaza.
"To the dear families, we share in your pain. I pledge that we will continue to act relentlessly until we bring everyone back. Until we return all our sons and daughters home," Netanyahu said in a statement.
This announcement comes shortly after Hamas handed over the remains of four hostages in exchange for over 600 Palestinian prisoners. That exchange marked the final planned swap in the first phase of the ceasefire, which is set to conclude this weekend.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
<h2>Negotiations for second phase under wraps</h2>
Negotiations for the second phase of the 42-day ceasefire were supposed to start more than three weeks ago, but it remains unclear whether they have.
After delivering the mortal remains of four deceased hostages overnight into Thursday, Hamas said that it is willing to engage in talks for the next stage.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
&ldquo;Any attempts by Netanyahu and his government to backtrack on the agreement and obstruct it will only lead to more suffering for the prisoners and their families,&rdquo; Hamas said, referring to the hostages.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold security discussions on Thursday, after which, according to an Israeli source, a decision will be made on whether to send a delegation to continue negotiations and what terms they would follow.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibas-family-tells-netanyahu-to-shut-up-as-he-describes-murders-of-shiri-ariel-and-kfir-8759150">Bibas family tells Netanyahu to &lsquo;shut up&rsquo; as he describes murders of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir</a>
A separate Israeli source familiar with the matter told CNN on Tuesday that Netanyahu would prefer to extend the first phase of the ceasefire instead of withdrawing from Gaza, aiming to secure the release of more hostages without making further concessions. The government is trying to prolong this phase &ldquo;by as much as possible&rdquo; to achieve that goal, the source added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Under the ceasefire deal, Israel was expected to start withdrawing from the corridor on Saturday, the final day of the first phase, and complete the process within eight days. Middle East

Israel has no plans to pull out from the Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza, despite the terms of the ceasefire agreement, an official told CNN on Thursday (Feb 27). “We will not exit the Philadelphi Corridor. We will not allow Hamas murderers to roam again with trucks and rifles on our borders, and we will not let them strengthen themselves again through smuggling,” the source told CNN. Also read: Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations Under the ceasefire deal, Israel was expected to start withdrawing from the corridor on Saturday, the final day of the first phase, and complete the process within eight days. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday vowed to work "relentlessly" to bring back all the hostages held in Gaza. "To the dear families, we share in your pain. I pledge that we will continue to act relentlessly until we bring everyone back. Until we return all our sons and daughters home," Netanyahu said in a statement. This announcement comes shortly after Hamas handed over the remains of four hostages in exchange for over 600 Palestinian prisoners. That exchange marked the final planned swap in the first phase of the ceasefire, which is set to conclude this weekend. Also read: Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu Negotiations for second phase under wraps Negotiations for the second phase of the 42-day ceasefire were supposed to start more than three weeks ago, but it remains unclear whether they have. After delivering the mortal remains of four deceased hostages overnight into Thursday, Hamas said that it is willing to engage in talks for the next stage. Also read: 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year “Any attempts by Netanyahu and his government to backtrack on the agreement and obstruct it will only lead to more suffering for the prisoners and their families,” Hamas said, referring to the hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold security discussions on Thursday, after which, according to an Israeli source, a decision will be made on whether to send a delegation to continue negotiations and what terms they would follow. Also read: Bibas family tells Netanyahu to ‘shut up’ as he describes murders of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir A separate Israeli source familiar with the matter told CNN on Tuesday that Netanyahu would prefer to extend the first phase of the ceasefire instead of withdrawing from Gaza, aiming to secure the release of more hostages without making further concessions. The government is trying to prolong this phase “by as much as possible” to achieve that goal, the source added. (With inputs from agencies)

Days before ceasefire ends, Israel says it won’t withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor in Gaza

British-American influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate departed Romania Thursday (Feb 27) morning on a private flight to the United States. 
Their departure follows approval from Romanian prosecutors, allowing them to travel abroad while still under investigation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/when-andrew-scott-had-to-be-rushed-to-hospital-in-an-ambulance-and-no-one-at-sag-awards-knew-8750602">When Andrew Scott had to be rushed to hospital in an ambulance and no one at SAG Awards knew</a>
<h2>Tate brothers granted permission to leave Romania </h2>
The Romanian Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) confirmed that the brothers, who have been vocal supporters of Trump, have been granted permission to leave the country. However, they must return when required and comply with the conditions of their judicial control. Failure to do so could result in stricter restrictions on their movement.
While their request to travel was approved, their appeal to have the charges against them dropped was denied. Reports indicate they are expected to return to Romania by the end of March to fulfil the terms of their judicial control.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absolutely-bewildered-alleged-victims-slam-trump-administration-for-interference-in-andrew-tate-case-8736643">'Absolutely bewildered': Alleged victims slam Trump administration for &lsquo;interference&rsquo; in Andrew Tate case</a>
"Regarding two defendants, individuals with dual citizenship, American and British, who are under judicial control in the criminal cases being investigated by DIICOT &ndash; Central Structure, we make the following clarification: the request to revoke the preventive measure of judicial control has been rejected, and it remains in place in both cases where criminal prosecution is under way," prosecutors said in a statement.
<h2>What are the charges against Andrew Tate and his brother?</h2>
The Tate brothers, former professional kickboxers, were arrested in 2022 and formally charged in mid-2023 alongside two Romanian women. They face allegations of human trafficking, rape, and forming a criminal group to exploit women.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/x-restored-account-of-andrew-tates-political-party-elon-musk-said-this-in-reply-8602095">X restores account of Andrew Tate's political party, Elon Musk said THIS in reply</a>
Despite the charges, the brothers deny any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, the UK is seeking their extradition in connection with a separate investigation into allegations of rape and human trafficking.
<h2>Did the US government intervene to get the travel ban lifted?</h2>
Earlier this month, Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu revealed that former US diplomat Richard Grenell raised the Tate brothers' case during discussions at the Munich Security Conference. While Hurezeanu stated that he did not see Grenell&rsquo;s comments as a "form of pressure," Grenell later told the Financial Times that his support for the brothers was clear.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-court-rules-cops-can-seize-over-25-million-to-cover-unpaid-taxes-from-andrew-tate-and-brother-tristan-784989">UK court rules cops can seize over $2.5 million from Andrew Tate and brother Tristan to cover unpaid taxes</a>
The paper also reported that a request was made for the brothers' passports to be returned so they could travel while awaiting trial.
Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu also dismissed the claims, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that &ldquo;the US has not made any requests&rdquo; regarding Tate&rsquo;s legal situation. He added that Romania and the US share &ldquo;the same values regarding the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Tate brothers, former professional kickboxers, were arrested in 2022 and formally charged in mid-2023 alongside two Romanian women. They face allegations of human trafficking, rape, and forming a criminal group to exploit women.

British-American influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate departed Romania Thursday (Feb 27) morning on a private flight to the United States. Their departure follows approval from Romanian prosecutors, allowing them to travel abroad while still under investigation. Also read: When Andrew Scott had to be rushed to hospital in an ambulance and no one at SAG Awards knew Tate brothers granted permission to leave Romania The Romanian Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) confirmed that the brothers, who have been vocal supporters of Trump, have been granted permission to leave the country. However, they must return when required and comply with the conditions of their judicial control. Failure to do so could result in stricter restrictions on their movement. While their request to travel was approved, their appeal to have the charges against them dropped was denied. Reports indicate they are expected to return to Romania by the end of March to fulfil the terms of their judicial control. Also read: 'Absolutely bewildered': Alleged victims slam Trump administration for ‘interference’ in Andrew Tate case "Regarding two defendants, individuals with dual citizenship, American and British, who are under judicial control in the criminal cases being investigated by DIICOT – Central Structure, we make the following clarification: the request to revoke the preventive measure of judicial control has been rejected, and it remains in place in both cases where criminal prosecution is under way," prosecutors said in a statement. What are the charges against Andrew Tate and his brother? The Tate brothers, former professional kickboxers, were arrested in 2022 and formally charged in mid-2023 alongside two Romanian women. They face allegations of human trafficking, rape, and forming a criminal group to exploit women. Also read: X restores account of Andrew Tate's political party, Elon Musk said THIS in reply Despite the charges, the brothers deny any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, the UK is seeking their extradition in connection with a separate investigation into allegations of rape and human trafficking. Did the US government intervene to get the travel ban lifted? Earlier this month, Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu revealed that former US diplomat Richard Grenell raised the Tate brothers' case during discussions at the Munich Security Conference. While Hurezeanu stated that he did not see Grenell’s comments as a "form of pressure," Grenell later told the Financial Times that his support for the brothers was clear. Also read: UK court rules cops can seize over $2.5 million from Andrew Tate and brother Tristan to cover unpaid taxes The paper also reported that a request was made for the brothers' passports to be returned so they could travel while awaiting trial. Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu also dismissed the claims, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that “the US has not made any requests” regarding Tate’s legal situation. He added that Romania and the US share “the same values regarding the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.” (With inputs from agencies)

Andrew, Tristan Tate fly to US on private jet: Did Trump admin pressure Romania to lift their travel ban?

Pope Francis, battling pneumonia in both lungs, slept well and is resting, the Vatican said Thursday, after revealing the 88-year-old's condition was slightly improving.
The pontiff, who had part of one of his lungs removed as a young man, has suffered increasing health problems in recent years.
He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 and this is the longest hospitalisation in Francis's papacy.
"The pope slept well last night and is now resting", the Vatican said in a morning bulletin on the health of the pontiff.
The clinical conditions of the Argentine, admitted to Gemelli with breathing difficulties, "in the last 24 hours have shown a further, slight improvement," the Holy See said late Wednesday.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World news: The clinical conditions of the Argentine, admitted to Gemelli with breathing difficulties, "in the last 24 hours have shown a further, slight improvement," the Holy See said late Wednesday.

Pope Francis, battling pneumonia in both lungs, slept well and is resting, the Vatican said Thursday, after revealing the 88-year-old's condition was slightly improving. The pontiff, who had part of one of his lungs removed as a young man, has suffered increasing health problems in recent years. He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 and this is the longest hospitalisation in Francis's papacy. "The pope slept well last night and is now resting", the Vatican said in a morning bulletin on the health of the pontiff. The clinical conditions of the Argentine, admitted to Gemelli with breathing difficulties, "in the last 24 hours have shown a further, slight improvement," the Holy See said late Wednesday. 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's health is improving, 'slept well': Vatican

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday noted that American companies can now hire Indian graduates from US universities under the newly proposed &lsquo;gold card&rsquo; citizenship initiative.
The move follows Trump's unveiling of the &lsquo;gold card&rsquo; on Wednesday&mdash;a pathway to US citizenship for wealthy foreign investors willing to invest $5 million. It is also seen as a significant boost for Indian students.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-no-choice-but-to-start-ceasefire-2nd-phase-negotiations-8760350">Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Gold cards would &lsquo;sell like crazy&rsquo;</h2>
Donald Trump, during his first Cabinet meeting, said he hoped the gold cards would &ldquo;sell like crazy&rdquo;.
"A person comes from India, China, Japan &ndash; lots of different places and they go to Harvard, the Wharton School of Finance, they go to Yale they go to all great schools, and they graduate number one in their class, and they are made job offers, but the offers are immediately rescinded because you have no idea whether or not that person can stay in the country," news agency ANI quoted Donald Trump as saying.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-controversial-ai-gaza-video-gets-a-response-from-hamas-8760303">Trump's Gaza 'Riviera' video slammed by Democrats as 'absolutely ridiculous and insulting'</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trumps wants &lsquo;productive&rsquo; people in US</h2>
Trump said that he introduced the gold card system to tackle the issue. He said that a company can buy a gold card and use it for this recruitment matter.
"I want to be able to have that person stay in the country, these companies can go and buy a gold card, and they can use it as a matter of recruitment. At the same time, the company is using that money to pay down debt we are going to. We are going to pay down a lot of debt with that, and I think the gold card is going to be used not only for that. I mean, they will be used by companies," Trump said.
When asked about the gold card plan, Trump jokingly remarked, "I hope you liked it."
Trump said he wanted "productive" people in the US, and those USD 5 million would create jobs and pay off the US debt. Trump further said that many of these 'productive' graduates return to their home countries and become successful entrepreneurs. "They go back to India, or they go back to the country where they came from, and they open up a company, and they become billionaires. They're employing thousands of people," he said. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Discover how President Trump's new 'gold card' initiative aims to bridge the talent gap by enabling US firms to hire skilled Indian graduates from American universities.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday noted that American companies can now hire Indian graduates from US universities under the newly proposed ‘gold card’ citizenship initiative. The move follows Trump's unveiling of the ‘gold card’ on Wednesday—a pathway to US citizenship for wealthy foreign investors willing to invest $5 million. It is also seen as a significant boost for Indian students. Also read | Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations Gold cards would ‘sell like crazy’ Donald Trump, during his first Cabinet meeting, said he hoped the gold cards would “sell like crazy”. "A person comes from India, China, Japan – lots of different places and they go to Harvard, the Wharton School of Finance, they go to Yale they go to all great schools, and they graduate number one in their class, and they are made job offers, but the offers are immediately rescinded because you have no idea whether or not that person can stay in the country," news agency ANI quoted Donald Trump as saying. Also read | Trump's Gaza 'Riviera' video slammed by Democrats as 'absolutely ridiculous and insulting' Trumps wants ‘productive’ people in US Trump said that he introduced the gold card system to tackle the issue. He said that a company can buy a gold card and use it for this recruitment matter. "I want to be able to have that person stay in the country, these companies can go and buy a gold card, and they can use it as a matter of recruitment. At the same time, the company is using that money to pay down debt we are going to. We are going to pay down a lot of debt with that, and I think the gold card is going to be used not only for that. I mean, they will be used by companies," Trump said. When asked about the gold card plan, Trump jokingly remarked, "I hope you liked it." Trump said he wanted "productive" people in the US, and those USD 5 million would create jobs and pay off the US debt. Trump further said that many of these 'productive' graduates return to their home countries and become successful entrepreneurs. "They go back to India, or they go back to the country where they came from, and they open up a company, and they become billionaires. They're employing thousands of people," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘US companies can now hire Indians’: Donald Trump on ‘gold card’ visa

Hamas, on Thursday (Feb 27), said that Israel had "no choice but to start negotiations" on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal now that the group has handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages taken captive during the October 7, 2023 attack.
"We imposed the synchronization of the process of handing over the bodies of the enemy prisoners with the release of our heroic prisoners," the group said in a statement on Telegram, adding, "It has no choice but to start negotiations for the second phase."
Hamas exchanged the bodies of Israeli hostages for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
The first phase of the ceasefire has brought a halt to the Israel-Hamas war triggered by the unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack by the Palestinian militant group.
As part of the agreement, 25 hostages have been released alive in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
The United States said that discussions are progressing as planned for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-officials-say-4-israel-hostage-bodies-to-be-exchanged-for-palestinian-prisoners-thursday-8758543">Also read: Hamas says will hand over bodies of four Israeli hostages 'tonight'</a>
<h2>Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages'&nbsp;</h2>
Israel on Thursday (Feb 27) said that it had received the coffins of four hostages from Hamas and that the process to identify the remains was underway. In exchange, Tel Aviv released a group of Palestinian prisoners in the West Bank's Ramallah.
"Israel has received the coffins of four fallen hostages through the Red Cross," the prime minister's office said in a statement.
The exchange was scheduled to happen last week but was delayed by Israel after Hamas on Friday (Feb 21) released the remains of the youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, an anonymous woman and Oded Lifshitz.
Ariel and Kfir's mother's body was also supposed to be released along with them, but it wasn't. This led to a hue and cry following which the remains of Shiri Bibas were handed over to Israel early the next day. &nbsp;
The bodies were paraded before the crowds in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, with propaganda posters before being transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Armed Hamas fighters carried out the handover. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Hamas said Thursday that Israel had "no choice but to start negotiations" on a second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, after the group handed over the bodies of four Israelis taken hostage during the attack of October 7, 2023.

Hamas, on Thursday (Feb 27), said that Israel had "no choice but to start negotiations" on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal now that the group has handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages taken captive during the October 7, 2023 attack. "We imposed the synchronization of the process of handing over the bodies of the enemy prisoners with the release of our heroic prisoners," the group said in a statement on Telegram, adding, "It has no choice but to start negotiations for the second phase." Hamas exchanged the bodies of Israeli hostages for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. The first phase of the ceasefire has brought a halt to the Israel-Hamas war triggered by the unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack by the Palestinian militant group. As part of the agreement, 25 hostages have been released alive in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The United States said that discussions are progressing as planned for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. Also read: Hamas says will hand over bodies of four Israeli hostages 'tonight' Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages' Israel on Thursday (Feb 27) said that it had received the coffins of four hostages from Hamas and that the process to identify the remains was underway. In exchange, Tel Aviv released a group of Palestinian prisoners in the West Bank's Ramallah. "Israel has received the coffins of four fallen hostages through the Red Cross," the prime minister's office said in a statement. The exchange was scheduled to happen last week but was delayed by Israel after Hamas on Friday (Feb 21) released the remains of the youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, an anonymous woman and Oded Lifshitz. Ariel and Kfir's mother's body was also supposed to be released along with them, but it wasn't. This led to a hue and cry following which the remains of Shiri Bibas were handed over to Israel early the next day. The bodies were paraded before the crowds in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, with propaganda posters before being transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Armed Hamas fighters carried out the handover. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says Israel has 'no choice but to start' ceasefire 2nd phase negotiations

At the UN Human Rights Council, India slammed Pakistan, calling it a "failed state" reliant on international handouts.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump lashed out at the European Union, claiming it was created to "screw" the US, as he announced new tariffs against the bloc.
In Israel, the bodies of four hostages were returned in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Finally, Texas reported its first measles-related fatality in years, as an unvaccinated child succumbed to the contagious disease.
Click on the headlines for more
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-a-failed-state-that-survives-on-handouts-and-instability-india-at-un-8760190" aria-label="'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and thrives on instability': India At UN">'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and thrives on instability': India At UN</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/27/FLB52ib1OI5PFVT6dMjK.jpg" alt=" 'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and instability': India At UN Photograph: (ANI) ">
India delivered a scathing critique to Pakistan at the seventh meeting of the 58th Session of UN Human Rights Council, labeling it a "failed state" that thrives on instability and survives on international handouts.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-european-union-claims-it-was-formed-to-screw-us-announces-25-tariffs-bloc-responds-8760193" aria-label="Trump goes after European Union, claims it was formed to 'screw' US">Trump goes after European Union, claims it was formed to 'screw' US</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/27/oNUM3JtUk7DWcZ4pM0ON.png" alt=" File Photo: Donald Trump and EU flag Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) launched an attack on the European Union, claiming it was born to "screw" the United States, as he announced new tariffs targeting the longtime US partner.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-receives-bodies-of-four-fallen-hostages-remains-to-be-identified-israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-hamas-militants-hostage-exchange-gaza-truce-8760098" aria-label="Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages', Palestinian prisoners released in exchange">Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages', Palestinian prisoners released in exchange</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/4M2O72OHIADc2CENGx5P.png" alt=" Israel hostages Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Israel on Thursday (Feb 27) said that it had received the coffins of four hostages from Hamas and that the process to identify the remains was underway. In exchange, Tel Aviv released a group of Palestinian prisoners in West Bank's Ramallah.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-health-secretary-rfk-jr-downplays-outbreak-concerns-as-texas-child-dies-of-measles-25-years-after-contagious-disease-was-eradicated-from-nation-8760112" aria-label="Texas records first fatality owing to measles outbreak while RFK Jr downplays concerns">Texas records first fatality owing to measles outbreak while RFK Jr downplays concerns</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/27/I7CMBYWwagq7ynZMEeSe.png" alt=" File Photo: The new US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., shakes hands with US President Donald Trump after a swearing in ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">In Texas, United States, an unvaccinated child died from measles, revealed authorities on Wednesday (Feb 26), marking the first US fatality from the highly contagious disease since 2015 when a woman succumbed after being exposed to it at a health clinic. The last time a child died of it was in 2003. Measles was&nbsp;believed to be eliminated in the US in 2000,&nbsp;according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Watch | DR Congo: Mystery illness kills 53 people, WHO on alert 
<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/2702_wion_congo_8am/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2702_wion_congo_8am.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=89&amp;tags=dr congo, mystery illness, mystery disease," title="DR Congo: Mystery illness kills 53 people, WHO on alert" id="PL_iframe_block-m7mug27r-oa5188rx-akcxw6i4"></iframe>
&nbsp;

Stay ahead of the day's events with WION's morning news brief, providing a quick yet comprehensive overview of the most important news from around the world.

At the UN Human Rights Council, India slammed Pakistan, calling it a "failed state" reliant on international handouts. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump lashed out at the European Union, claiming it was created to "screw" the US, as he announced new tariffs against the bloc. In Israel, the bodies of four hostages were returned in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Finally, Texas reported its first measles-related fatality in years, as an unvaccinated child succumbed to the contagious disease. Click on the headlines for more 'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and thrives on instability': India At UN India delivered a scathing critique to Pakistan at the seventh meeting of the 58th Session of UN Human Rights Council, labeling it a "failed state" that thrives on instability and survives on international handouts. Trump goes after European Union, claims it was formed to 'screw' US US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) launched an attack on the European Union, claiming it was born to "screw" the United States, as he announced new tariffs targeting the longtime US partner. Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages', Palestinian prisoners released in exchange Israel on Thursday (Feb 27) said that it had received the coffins of four hostages from Hamas and that the process to identify the remains was underway. In exchange, Tel Aviv released a group of Palestinian prisoners in West Bank's Ramallah. Texas records first fatality owing to measles outbreak while RFK Jr downplays concerns In Texas, United States, an unvaccinated child died from measles, revealed authorities on Wednesday (Feb 26), marking the first US fatality from the highly contagious disease since 2015 when a woman succumbed after being exposed to it at a health clinic. The last time a child died of it was in 2003. Measles was believed to be eliminated in the US in 2000, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Watch | DR Congo: Mystery illness kills 53 people, WHO on alert

Morning news brief: India slams Pakistan at UN; Trump claims EU created to 'screw' US, and more

US President Donald Trump's "vision" for Gaza has created a stir with House Democrats denouncing it, calling the move "despicable".
Trump, on Wednesday (Feb 26), shared an AI-generated video presenting his "vision" for Gaza. The post on his Truth Social platform was captioned "Gaza 2025&hellip; what&rsquo;s next?".
In the video, AI-generated Trump and Musk can be seen dancing, eating hummus and sipping drinks at a beach.
"No more tunnels, no more fear," a voice can be heard singing over a dance beat. "Trump Gaza is finally here!"
The video, which begins with barefoot Palestinian children walking through the rubble of Gaza, approaches a futuristic skyline along Gaza's coast after a title card questions, "What's next?"&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114068387897265338/embed" class="truthsocial-embed truthsocial-video" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

"Donald's coming to set you free," a voice sings. "Trump Gaza shining bright. Golden future, a brand-new light. Feast and dance. The deed is done."
The clip also features Trump relaxing at the beach in a shack with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside images of towering skyscrapers, lavish yachts, and a dictator-like statue of the US President.
According to American media reports, Trump's video showcases his proposal of expelling 2.1 million Palestinians from Gaza and turning the enclave into a "Riviera" that would be owned by the United States.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gaza-number-one-us-president-shares-his-vision-of-post-war-region-with-netanyahu-chilling-by-pool-8758822">Also read: &lsquo;Trump Gaza number one&rsquo;: US president shares his vision of post-war region, with Netanyahu chilling by pool</a>
<h2>House Democrats denounce the post by POTUS</h2>
House Democrats condemned the post by the US president stating that what Trump did was "really way below the character and nature of the presidency.&rdquo;
Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.), in a post on X, said, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m a very big supporter of Israel, and I think Israel has every right and responsibility to defend itself. But when a president goes and does something like that &mdash; it&rsquo;s despicable. It really is. It makes things more difficult on the ground &hellip; for everybody. They just did something that&rsquo;s really way below the character and nature of the presidency.&rdquo;
"I cannot believe a president of the United States could ever put something on their official [social media account] on that. And we are to take that man seriously? It is absolutely ridiculous and insulting to me, and I think to anybody that understands history &mdash; that understands the complications of trying to get a true peace in the Middle East,&rdquo; Rep. Greg Meeks (NY), the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, wrote.
<h2>Hamas responds</h2>
Reacting to the video, Basem Naim, spokesperson and Hamas Political Bureau member said, "Unfortunately, Trump is once again proposing ideas that do not take into account the cultures and interests of the people."
"The people of Gaza are looking forward to the day when they see Gaza rebuilt, economically revived and building a better future for its children, but this cannot succeed inside the big prison. We are not struggling to improve prison conditions, but to get rid of the prison and the jailer," Naim stated while speaking to Newsweek.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: The clip features Trump relaxing at the beach on a shack with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside images of towering skyscrapers, lavish yachts, and a dictator-like statue of the US President.

US President Donald Trump's "vision" for Gaza has created a stir with House Democrats denouncing it, calling the move "despicable". Trump, on Wednesday (Feb 26), shared an AI-generated video presenting his "vision" for Gaza. The post on his Truth Social platform was captioned "Gaza 2025… what’s next?". In the video, AI-generated Trump and Musk can be seen dancing, eating hummus and sipping drinks at a beach. "No more tunnels, no more fear," a voice can be heard singing over a dance beat. "Trump Gaza is finally here!" The video, which begins with barefoot Palestinian children walking through the rubble of Gaza, approaches a futuristic skyline along Gaza's coast after a title card questions, "What's next?" "Donald's coming to set you free," a voice sings. "Trump Gaza shining bright. Golden future, a brand-new light. Feast and dance. The deed is done." The clip also features Trump relaxing at the beach in a shack with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside images of towering skyscrapers, lavish yachts, and a dictator-like statue of the US President. According to American media reports, Trump's video showcases his proposal of expelling 2.1 million Palestinians from Gaza and turning the enclave into a "Riviera" that would be owned by the United States. Also read: ‘Trump Gaza number one’: US president shares his vision of post-war region, with Netanyahu chilling by pool House Democrats denounce the post by POTUS House Democrats condemned the post by the US president stating that what Trump did was "really way below the character and nature of the presidency.” Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.), in a post on X, said, “I’m a very big supporter of Israel, and I think Israel has every right and responsibility to defend itself. But when a president goes and does something like that — it’s despicable. It really is. It makes things more difficult on the ground … for everybody. They just did something that’s really way below the character and nature of the presidency.” "I cannot believe a president of the United States could ever put something on their official [social media account] on that. And we are to take that man seriously? It is absolutely ridiculous and insulting to me, and I think to anybody that understands history — that understands the complications of trying to get a true peace in the Middle East,” Rep. Greg Meeks (NY), the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, wrote. Hamas responds Reacting to the video, Basem Naim, spokesperson and Hamas Political Bureau member said, "Unfortunately, Trump is once again proposing ideas that do not take into account the cultures and interests of the people." "The people of Gaza are looking forward to the day when they see Gaza rebuilt, economically revived and building a better future for its children, but this cannot succeed inside the big prison. We are not struggling to improve prison conditions, but to get rid of the prison and the jailer," Naim stated while speaking to Newsweek. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's Gaza 'Riviera' video slammed by Democrats as 'absolutely ridiculous and insulting'

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) launched an attack on the European Union, claiming it was born to "screw" the United States, as he announced new tariffs targeting the longtime US partner.
Hitting back, the EU said it was "the world's largest free market" and has been nothing but "a boon for the United States."
<h2>Trump on European Union</h2>
"Look, let's be honest, the European Union was formed in order to screw the United States," Trump told reporters during his first cabinet meeting since returning to the White House.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-health-secretary-rfk-jr-downplays-outbreak-concerns-as-texas-child-dies-of-measles-25-years-after-contagious-disease-was-eradicated-from-nation-8760112">Texas child dies of measles 25 years after disease was eradicated from US; RFK Jr downplays concerns</a>
"That's the purpose of it, and they've done a good job of it. But now I'm president," he added.
The US President alleged that the European Union has "really taken advantage of us."
When asked if he has made a decision on how much tariff the US will impose on the EU, he said "We'll be announcing it very soon, and it'll be 25 percent, generally speaking." According to Trump, cars would be among the items to be hit with the taxes.
Last year's US trade deficit with the 27-nation bloc reached $235.6 billion, according to official figures.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-receives-bodies-of-four-fallen-hostages-remains-to-be-identified-israel-hamas-war-gaza-war-hamas-militants-hostage-exchange-gaza-truce-8760098">Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages', Palestinian prisoners released in exchange</a>
Trump's remarks come as tensions between Washington and its European allies continue to mount. Since Trump's inauguration, the US has dramatically shifted its stance on Ukraine and Germany's likely new leader, while also pushing for Europe to take greater control of its own defence.
<h2>European Union responds</h2>
Responding to Donald Trump's claims and threats, the European Union described itself as a "boon for the United States.
An unnamed source in the European Commission told AFP, "The European Union is the world's largest free market. And it has been a boon for the United States."
"We should work together to preserve these opportunities for our people and businesses. Not against each other".
The 27-nation bloc would respond "firmly and immediately" to new tariffs, added the report.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-anybody-unhappy-with-elon-well-throw-you-out-trump-jokes-about-firing-cabinet-members-8759940">'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We&rsquo;ll throw you out': Trump jokes about firing cabinet members</a>
On X, former Swedish prime minister Carl Bildt also blasted Trump and said he had a "seriously distorted view of history" as the EU was "actually set up to prevent war on the European continent."
For decades, Washington supported European integration, seeing the bloc's formation in 1993 as a safeguard against conflict after two world wars. Trump, however, has taken a different stance, cheering Brexit and pushing his "America First" agenda.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Learn about the EU's counter to Trump's tariff threats, highlighting its status as the largest free market and its status as a beneficial partner to the United States.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) launched an attack on the European Union, claiming it was born to "screw" the United States, as he announced new tariffs targeting the longtime US partner. Hitting back, the EU said it was "the world's largest free market" and has been nothing but "a boon for the United States." Trump on European Union "Look, let's be honest, the European Union was formed in order to screw the United States," Trump told reporters during his first cabinet meeting since returning to the White House. Also read | Texas child dies of measles 25 years after disease was eradicated from US; RFK Jr downplays concerns "That's the purpose of it, and they've done a good job of it. But now I'm president," he added. The US President alleged that the European Union has "really taken advantage of us." When asked if he has made a decision on how much tariff the US will impose on the EU, he said "We'll be announcing it very soon, and it'll be 25 percent, generally speaking." According to Trump, cars would be among the items to be hit with the taxes. Last year's US trade deficit with the 27-nation bloc reached $235.6 billion, according to official figures. Also read | Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages', Palestinian prisoners released in exchange Trump's remarks come as tensions between Washington and its European allies continue to mount. Since Trump's inauguration, the US has dramatically shifted its stance on Ukraine and Germany's likely new leader, while also pushing for Europe to take greater control of its own defence. European Union responds Responding to Donald Trump's claims and threats, the European Union described itself as a "boon for the United States. An unnamed source in the European Commission told AFP, "The European Union is the world's largest free market. And it has been a boon for the United States." "We should work together to preserve these opportunities for our people and businesses. Not against each other". The 27-nation bloc would respond "firmly and immediately" to new tariffs, added the report. Also read | 'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We’ll throw you out': Trump jokes about firing cabinet members On X, former Swedish prime minister Carl Bildt also blasted Trump and said he had a "seriously distorted view of history" as the EU was "actually set up to prevent war on the European continent." For decades, Washington supported European integration, seeing the bloc's formation in 1993 as a safeguard against conflict after two world wars. Trump, however, has taken a different stance, cheering Brexit and pushing his "America First" agenda. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump goes after European Union, claims it was formed to 'screw' US

In Texas, United States, an unvaccinated child died from measles, revealed authorities on Wednesday (Feb 26), marking the first US fatality from the highly contagious disease since 2015 when a woman succumbed after being exposed to it at a health clinic. The last time a child died of it was in 2003. Measles was&nbsp;believed to be eliminated in the US in 2000, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
"The school-aged child who was not vaccinated was hospitalised in Lubbock last week and tested positive for measles," said the Texas state health department in a statement. City officials said that the child died "within the last 24 hours."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-anybody-unhappy-with-elon-well-throw-you-out-trump-jokes-about-firing-cabinet-members-8759940">'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We&rsquo;ll throw you out': Trump jokes about firing cabinet members</a>
The death comes as the US's Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. downplayed a growing outbreak during US President Donald Trump's first cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
<h2>RFK Jr downplays concerns</h2>
On Wednesday, during a meeting of Trump's cabinet, RFK Jr, the nephew of America's 35th President, John F. Kennedy, downplayed a worsening situation in Texas.&nbsp;
In Texas, the most populous state in the South-central region of the US, around 20 people have been hospitalised. Even as officials raised the alarm that the outbreak is likely to grow, Kennedy told the cabinet meeting: "It's not unusual. You have measles outbreaks every year."
The newly appointed US Health secretary has long backed false claims linking the measles vaccine to autism, a theory debunked by extensive research.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-holds-first-cabinet-meeting-confirms-zelenskys-visit-to-us-on-friday-8759830">Confidence in nation at 'all-time high': 10 key takeaways from Trump's first official cabinet meeting</a>
He also said that the death toll was two. However, as per AFP, neither Texas nor neighbouring New Mexico's health departments said they knew of any fatality except the Texan child.
<h2>Is the US in the grip of a measles epidemic?</h2>
In the US, immunisation rates are declining nationwide. Over 130 measles cases have been reported this year in West Texas and neighbouring New Mexico. The majority of these are unvaccinated children, concentrated in a Mennonite religious community known for vaccine hesitancy.
Experts say the situation highlights the importance of vaccination and "should serve as a reminder that there was a reason that the vaccine was developed and that the vaccine is a value to individuals".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-orders-federal-agencies-to-prepare-for-job-cuts-8759853">Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts</a>
In Texas, vaccine exemptions for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs, are legal. Even though the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a 95 per cent vaccination rate to maintain "herd immunity," the coverage among kindergartners has dropped. In the 2019&ndash;2020 school year, the vaccination rate was 95.2 per cent, in 2023-2023 this dropped to 92.7 per cent, leaving some 280,000 children vulnerable.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Health Secretary RFK Jr downplays concerns about the measles outbreak during a cabinet meeting despite rising cases in Texas and New Mexico.

In Texas, United States, an unvaccinated child died from measles, revealed authorities on Wednesday (Feb 26), marking the first US fatality from the highly contagious disease since 2015 when a woman succumbed after being exposed to it at a health clinic. The last time a child died of it was in 2003. Measles was believed to be eliminated in the US in 2000, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "The school-aged child who was not vaccinated was hospitalised in Lubbock last week and tested positive for measles," said the Texas state health department in a statement. City officials said that the child died "within the last 24 hours." Also read | 'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We’ll throw you out': Trump jokes about firing cabinet members The death comes as the US's Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. downplayed a growing outbreak during US President Donald Trump's first cabinet meeting on Wednesday. RFK Jr downplays concerns On Wednesday, during a meeting of Trump's cabinet, RFK Jr, the nephew of America's 35th President, John F. Kennedy, downplayed a worsening situation in Texas. In Texas, the most populous state in the South-central region of the US, around 20 people have been hospitalised. Even as officials raised the alarm that the outbreak is likely to grow, Kennedy told the cabinet meeting: "It's not unusual. You have measles outbreaks every year." The newly appointed US Health secretary has long backed false claims linking the measles vaccine to autism, a theory debunked by extensive research. Also read | Confidence in nation at 'all-time high': 10 key takeaways from Trump's first official cabinet meeting He also said that the death toll was two. However, as per AFP, neither Texas nor neighbouring New Mexico's health departments said they knew of any fatality except the Texan child. Is the US in the grip of a measles epidemic? In the US, immunisation rates are declining nationwide. Over 130 measles cases have been reported this year in West Texas and neighbouring New Mexico. The majority of these are unvaccinated children, concentrated in a Mennonite religious community known for vaccine hesitancy. Experts say the situation highlights the importance of vaccination and "should serve as a reminder that there was a reason that the vaccine was developed and that the vaccine is a value to individuals". Also read | Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts In Texas, vaccine exemptions for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs, are legal. Even though the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a 95 per cent vaccination rate to maintain "herd immunity," the coverage among kindergartners has dropped. In the 2019–2020 school year, the vaccination rate was 95.2 per cent, in 2023-2023 this dropped to 92.7 per cent, leaving some 280,000 children vulnerable. (With inputs from agencies)

Texas measles death: Unvaccinated child dies amid growing outbreak. This is what anti-vaxxer health secy RFK Jr said

Israel on Thursday (Feb 27) said that it had received the coffins of four hostages from Hamas and that the process to identify the remains was underway. In exchange, Tel Aviv released a group of Palestinian prisoners in West Bank's Ramallah.
"Israel has received the coffins of four fallen hostages through the Red Cross," the prime minister's office said in a statement.
The exchange was scheduled to happen last week but was delayed by Israel after Hamas on Friday (Feb 21) released the remains of youngest hostages Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, an anonymous woman and Oded Lifshitz.
Ariel and Kfir's mother's body was also supposed to be released along with them, but it wasn't. This led to a hue and cry following which the remains of Shiri Bibas were handed over to Israel early the next day.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-murdered-10-month-old-kfir-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-with-bare-hands-alleges-israel-family-says-yet-to-receive-official-info-8747053">Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands'</a>
The bodies were paraded before crowds in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, with propaganda posters before being transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Armed Hamas fighters carried out the handover. &nbsp;
<h2>Israeli hostages released with humiliating ceremonies</h2>
Talking to AFP, a senior leader of the Palestinian group Hamas confirmed the release and said that the bodies belonged to Israeli hostages.
"Four bodies transferred to the Red Cross from Hamas," said the Hamas official., adding that they were now waiting for Tel Aviv to release Palestinian prisoners.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibas-family-calls-on-israeli-officials-to-take-responsiblity-for-hostage-deaths-there-is-no-meaning-to-forgiveness-8759225">Bibas family calls on Israeli officials to take responsiblity for hostage deaths; 'no meaning to forgiveness'</a>
"The four bodies were handed over a short while ago, and we are waiting for the release of Palestinian prisoners," said the official.
The latest release of the hostage remains comes just days after Israel paused the exchange, citing concerns over the manner in which hostages were being freed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the militants for what he labelled as "humiliating ceremonies".&nbsp;
Since the ceasefire began on January 19, Hamas has publicly released 25 Israeli hostages across Gaza. These staged events saw masked, armed fighters escort captives onto platforms decorated with slogans and propaganda.
Israel, in turn, has freed over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
<h2>Palestinian prisoners released</h2>
In the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, a bus carrying a group of Palestinian prisoners released by Israel under the Gaza ceasefire deal arrived to a cheering crowd.
The prisoners, wearing traditional keffiyeh scarves and jackets to cover their jail uniforms, descended the buses to a jubilant crowd. They will undergo a health checkup before being reunited with their families.
With this exchange, the first phase of prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement has been concluded.
The truce provided for the release of 33 Israeli hostages, including the bodies of eight, by March 1. In exchange, 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel were to be released.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Israel has received the coffins of four "fallen hostages" released by Hamas through the Red Cross. In exchange, a group of Palestinian prisoners have been released.

Israel on Thursday (Feb 27) said that it had received the coffins of four hostages from Hamas and that the process to identify the remains was underway. In exchange, Tel Aviv released a group of Palestinian prisoners in West Bank's Ramallah. "Israel has received the coffins of four fallen hostages through the Red Cross," the prime minister's office said in a statement. The exchange was scheduled to happen last week but was delayed by Israel after Hamas on Friday (Feb 21) released the remains of youngest hostages Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, an anonymous woman and Oded Lifshitz. Ariel and Kfir's mother's body was also supposed to be released along with them, but it wasn't. This led to a hue and cry following which the remains of Shiri Bibas were handed over to Israel early the next day. Also read | Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands' The bodies were paraded before crowds in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, with propaganda posters before being transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Armed Hamas fighters carried out the handover. Israeli hostages released with humiliating ceremonies Talking to AFP, a senior leader of the Palestinian group Hamas confirmed the release and said that the bodies belonged to Israeli hostages. "Four bodies transferred to the Red Cross from Hamas," said the Hamas official., adding that they were now waiting for Tel Aviv to release Palestinian prisoners. Also read | Bibas family calls on Israeli officials to take responsiblity for hostage deaths; 'no meaning to forgiveness' "The four bodies were handed over a short while ago, and we are waiting for the release of Palestinian prisoners," said the official. The latest release of the hostage remains comes just days after Israel paused the exchange, citing concerns over the manner in which hostages were being freed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the militants for what he labelled as "humiliating ceremonies". Since the ceasefire began on January 19, Hamas has publicly released 25 Israeli hostages across Gaza. These staged events saw masked, armed fighters escort captives onto platforms decorated with slogans and propaganda. Israel, in turn, has freed over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners. Also read | Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu Palestinian prisoners released In the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, a bus carrying a group of Palestinian prisoners released by Israel under the Gaza ceasefire deal arrived to a cheering crowd. The prisoners, wearing traditional keffiyeh scarves and jackets to cover their jail uniforms, descended the buses to a jubilant crowd. They will undergo a health checkup before being reunited with their families. With this exchange, the first phase of prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement has been concluded. The truce provided for the release of 33 Israeli hostages, including the bodies of eight, by March 1. In exchange, 1,900 Palestinians held by Israel were to be released. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel receives bodies of four 'fallen hostages', Palestinian prisoners released in exchange

British energy giant&nbsp;BP&nbsp;launched a major pivot back to its more profitable oil and gas business Wednesday, shelving its once industry-leading targets on reducing carbon emissions and slashing clean energy investment.
The strategy overhaul comes after a difficult trading year for&nbsp;BP, which is under pressure from investors to boost its share price as countries look to slash emissions.
"Our optimism for a fast transition was misplaced, and we went too far, too fast,"&nbsp;chief executive Murray Auchincloss told investors at a presentation in London on Wednesday.
To the dismay of environmentalists, the group will cut cleaner energy investment by more than $5 billion annually while retiring key targets on cutting carbon emissions.&nbsp;
BP&nbsp;on Wednesday said it had reduced emissions by more than expected. Its carbon-cutting target, announced in 2020, had stood out at the time as one of the most ambitious in the industry.
"We are reducing and reallocating capital expenditure to our highest-returning businesses to drive growth," Auchincloss said in a statement ahead of the investor day.
"This is a reset&nbsp;BP, with an unwavering focus on growing long-term shareholder value," he added.
BP's shares were down 1.7 percent in afternoon trading in London.
<h2>Clean energy reset</h2>
BP&nbsp;will increase oil and gas investment to around $10 billion per year, making up two-thirds of capital expenditure, it added Wednesday.
The group will grow oil and gas production up to 2.5 million barrels a day in 2030, in a major pivot away from previous plans to cut output of fossil fuels.
"This is positive proof that fossil fuel companies can't or won't be part of climate crisis solutions," senior climate adviser for Greenpeace UK, Charlie Kronick, said in reaction.
"This conversation is over."
BP&nbsp;plans to also offload assets worth a total of $20 billion by 2027, including from the potential sale of its Castrol lubricants division.&nbsp;
The much-anticipated update comes after&nbsp;BP&nbsp;suffered a 97-percent slump in net profit last year.
Its profit after tax tumbled to $381 million from $15.2 billion in 2023 in the face of higher costs as well as weaker oil and gas prices.
Total revenue dropped nine per cent to $195 billion.
The energy group is looking to find up to $5 billion in cost savings by the end of 2027 and has recently axed 4,700 staff jobs, or around five percent of its workforce.
"The problem for&nbsp;BP is that it flip-flopped away from net zero and back to oil and gas too late," said Kathleen Brooks, research director at trading group XTB, adding that the market reaction to the strategy has been muted.
Ahead of the investor day, it was widely reported that US activist investor Elliott Investment Management has built a significant stake in&nbsp;BP.&nbsp;
The fund is known for forcing through corporate changes within groups it invests in, signalling further upheaval ahead for&nbsp;BP, analysts said.
<h2>Rival oil majors&nbsp;</h2>
British rival Shell and other oil majors have also cut back on clean energy objectives.
On the eve of&nbsp;BP's update, TotalEnergies chief executive Patrick Pouyanne said that while oil and gas would continue to be produced, "you need to produce it differently with much lower emissions".
The head of the French giant was speaking Tuesday at International Energy Week, an annual gathering in London of major players from across the sector.
Shell the same day forecast global demand for liquefied natural gas to rise by about 60 percent by 2040.
It forecast that this would be "largely driven by economic growth in Asia, emissions reductions in heavy industry and transport as well as the impact of artificial intelligence".
Gas is being touted by energy companies as cleaner than other fossil fuels as countries around the world strive to reduce their emissions and slow global warming.
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 strategy overhaul comes after a difficult trading year for BP, which is under pressure from investors to boost its share price as countries look to slash emissions.

British energy giant BP launched a major pivot back to its more profitable oil and gas business Wednesday, shelving its once industry-leading targets on reducing carbon emissions and slashing clean energy investment. The strategy overhaul comes after a difficult trading year for BP, which is under pressure from investors to boost its share price as countries look to slash emissions. "Our optimism for a fast transition was misplaced, and we went too far, too fast," chief executive Murray Auchincloss told investors at a presentation in London on Wednesday. To the dismay of environmentalists, the group will cut cleaner energy investment by more than $5 billion annually while retiring key targets on cutting carbon emissions. BP on Wednesday said it had reduced emissions by more than expected. Its carbon-cutting target, announced in 2020, had stood out at the time as one of the most ambitious in the industry. "We are reducing and reallocating capital expenditure to our highest-returning businesses to drive growth," Auchincloss said in a statement ahead of the investor day. "This is a reset BP, with an unwavering focus on growing long-term shareholder value," he added. BP's shares were down 1.7 percent in afternoon trading in London. Clean energy reset BP will increase oil and gas investment to around $10 billion per year, making up two-thirds of capital expenditure, it added Wednesday. The group will grow oil and gas production up to 2.5 million barrels a day in 2030, in a major pivot away from previous plans to cut output of fossil fuels. "This is positive proof that fossil fuel companies can't or won't be part of climate crisis solutions," senior climate adviser for Greenpeace UK, Charlie Kronick, said in reaction. "This conversation is over." BP plans to also offload assets worth a total of $20 billion by 2027, including from the potential sale of its Castrol lubricants division. The much-anticipated update comes after BP suffered a 97-percent slump in net profit last year. Its profit after tax tumbled to $381 million from $15.2 billion in 2023 in the face of higher costs as well as weaker oil and gas prices. Total revenue dropped nine per cent to $195 billion. The energy group is looking to find up to $5 billion in cost savings by the end of 2027 and has recently axed 4,700 staff jobs, or around five percent of its workforce. "The problem for BP is that it flip-flopped away from net zero and back to oil and gas too late," said Kathleen Brooks, research director at trading group XTB, adding that the market reaction to the strategy has been muted. Ahead of the investor day, it was widely reported that US activist investor Elliott Investment Management has built a significant stake in BP. The fund is known for forcing through corporate changes within groups it invests in, signalling further upheaval ahead for BP, analysts said. Rival oil majors British rival Shell and other oil majors have also cut back on clean energy objectives. On the eve of BP's update, TotalEnergies chief executive Patrick Pouyanne said that while oil and gas would continue to be produced, "you need to produce it differently with much lower emissions". The head of the French giant was speaking Tuesday at International Energy Week, an annual gathering in London of major players from across the sector. Shell the same day forecast global demand for liquefied natural gas to rise by about 60 percent by 2040. It forecast that this would be "largely driven by economic growth in Asia, emissions reductions in heavy industry and transport as well as the impact of artificial intelligence". Gas is being touted by energy companies as cleaner than other fossil fuels as countries around the world strive to reduce their emissions and slow global warming. 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.

BP makes a strategy shift, cuts renewable investment, boosts oil and gas spending

During the first Cabinet meeting at the White House on Wednesday (Feb 28), US President Donald Trump and his close aide Elon Musk defended the email sent to federal employees, demanding what they have done in their job recently.
When asked by a reporter whether federal workers who did not respond to the email risk being fired, Musk said that he wants to keep everyone who is doing well, otherwise, they should not be on the public payroll.
The billionaire said that Trump authorised the email. He added that another one is coming.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-anybody-unhappy-with-elon-well-throw-you-out-trump-jokes-about-firing-cabinet-members-8759940">'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We&rsquo;ll throw you out: Trump Jokes about firing cabinet members</a>
&ldquo;We want to keep everyone who is essential and doing their job well, otherwise they should not be on the public payroll,&rdquo; he said.
Musk added that anyone who does not respond to the email &ldquo;is presumed dead&rdquo; or is &ldquo;a fraudster&rdquo;.
<h2>&lsquo;Maybe they don't exist&rsquo;</h2>
While Trump said, &ldquo;Maybe they don't exist&rdquo;, referring to more than a million federal employees who have not responded to the email yet.
Trump said during the meeting that those who haven&rsquo;t responded are &ldquo;on the bubble&rdquo;, adding that &ldquo;maybe they&rsquo;re going to be gone.&rdquo;
He also slammed former president Joe Biden, suggesting that his administration did not track their own workforce properly.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-holds-first-cabinet-meeting-confirms-zelenskys-visit-to-us-on-friday-8759830">Confidence in nation at 'all-time high': 10 key takeaways from Trump's first official cabinet meeting</a>
&ldquo;We're trying to figure out who those people are who haven't responded. We're being a little more surgical in situations where people are doing classified stuff,&rdquo; Trump said.
Trump called on the cabinet members, urging them to &ldquo;do their own DOGE&rdquo; at their respective agencies. He also suggested the Environmental Protection Agency should shrink its workforce by up to 65 per cent.
A day earlier, the White House stated that over one million federal employees had responded to the email.
<h2>Musk&rsquo;s email</h2>
Federal workers were sent an email by Musk&rsquo;s team asking workers, &ldquo;What did you do last week?&rdquo; Musk warned that failing to reply to the email would be taken as their resignation, sparking confusion among the employees.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-orders-federal-agencies-to-prepare-for-job-cuts-8759853">Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts</a>
However, FBI Director Kash Patel instructed the staff in his agency to &ldquo;please pause any responses&rdquo;, making clear that &ldquo;no employee is obligated to report their activities outside of their Department chain of command.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The US Office of Personnel Management also directed agencies that responses to the email were optional.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | When asked by a reporter about whether federal workers who did not respond to the email risk being fired, Musk said that he wants to keep everyone who is doing well, otherwise, they should not be on the public payroll.

During the first Cabinet meeting at the White House on Wednesday (Feb 28), US President Donald Trump and his close aide Elon Musk defended the email sent to federal employees, demanding what they have done in their job recently. When asked by a reporter whether federal workers who did not respond to the email risk being fired, Musk said that he wants to keep everyone who is doing well, otherwise, they should not be on the public payroll. The billionaire said that Trump authorised the email. He added that another one is coming. Also read | 'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We’ll throw you out: Trump Jokes about firing cabinet members “We want to keep everyone who is essential and doing their job well, otherwise they should not be on the public payroll,” he said. Musk added that anyone who does not respond to the email “is presumed dead” or is “a fraudster”. ‘Maybe they don't exist’ While Trump said, “Maybe they don't exist”, referring to more than a million federal employees who have not responded to the email yet. Trump said during the meeting that those who haven’t responded are “on the bubble”, adding that “maybe they’re going to be gone.” He also slammed former president Joe Biden, suggesting that his administration did not track their own workforce properly. Also read | Confidence in nation at 'all-time high': 10 key takeaways from Trump's first official cabinet meeting “We're trying to figure out who those people are who haven't responded. We're being a little more surgical in situations where people are doing classified stuff,” Trump said. Trump called on the cabinet members, urging them to “do their own DOGE” at their respective agencies. He also suggested the Environmental Protection Agency should shrink its workforce by up to 65 per cent. A day earlier, the White House stated that over one million federal employees had responded to the email. Musk’s email Federal workers were sent an email by Musk’s team asking workers, “What did you do last week?” Musk warned that failing to reply to the email would be taken as their resignation, sparking confusion among the employees. Also read | Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts However, FBI Director Kash Patel instructed the staff in his agency to “please pause any responses”, making clear that “no employee is obligated to report their activities outside of their Department chain of command.” The US Office of Personnel Management also directed agencies that responses to the email were optional. (With inputs from agencies)

US federal employees who don’t respond to email are ‘presumed dead’, says Musk

President Donald Trump shared a light moment with his cabinet while praising tech billionaire Elon Musk. During the cabinet meeting, Trump joked that anyone unhappy with Musk would be "thrown out."&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-holds-first-cabinet-meeting-confirms-zelenskys-visit-to-us-on-friday-8759830" aria-label="Trump holds first Cabinet meeting, confirms Zelensky's visit to US on Friday">Trump holds first Cabinet meeting, confirms Zelensky's visit to US on Friday</a>
Trump invited Musk to speak first, highlighting their close relationship. He praised Musk for his contributions and the criticism he faces, saying, &ldquo;He&rsquo;s sacrificing a lot&hellip; and getting a lot of praise, but he&rsquo;s also getting hit.&rdquo; &nbsp;
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When a reporter asked Musk about Trump&rsquo;s claim that the cabinet fully supported him, Trump jumped in, saying, &ldquo;Elon, let the cabinet speak just for a second.&rdquo; He then added, &ldquo;Is anybody unhappy with Elon? If you are, we will throw you out of here.&rdquo; The room erupted in laughter and applause.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-un-peacekeepers-stood-the-ground-in-congo-un-peacekeeping-chief-jean-pierre-lacroix-8759622" aria-label="Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix">Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix</a>
<h2>Musk responded by calling it the 'best cabinet ever'&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Beyond the humour, Trump spoke about his commitment to balancing the national budget. Musk also admitted to a brief mistake in Ebola prevention funding, saying it was quickly corrected. He said, "Doge will certainly make mistakes as we proceed, but when we make mistakes, we'll fix it very quickly."&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-refuses-to-freeze-ukraine-war-rejects-proposal-for-ceasefire-along-the-frontline-in-ukraine-8759521" aria-label="Russia refuses to freeze Ukraine war, rejects proposal for ceasefire along frontline">Russia refuses to freeze Ukraine war, rejects proposal for ceasefire along frontline</a>
He added, "We accidentally cancelled &ndash; very, very briefly &ndash; Ebola prevention. I think we all want Ebola prevention, so we restored Ebola prevention immediately. There was no disruption."
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: Trump invited Musk to speak first, highlighting their close relationship. He praised Musk for his contributions and the criticism he faces, saying, “He’s sacrificing a lot… and getting a lot of praise, but he’s also getting hit.”

President Donald Trump shared a light moment with his cabinet while praising tech billionaire Elon Musk. During the cabinet meeting, Trump joked that anyone unhappy with Musk would be "thrown out." Also Read | Trump holds first Cabinet meeting, confirms Zelensky's visit to US on Friday Trump invited Musk to speak first, highlighting their close relationship. He praised Musk for his contributions and the criticism he faces, saying, “He’s sacrificing a lot… and getting a lot of praise, but he’s also getting hit.” Also Read | Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu When a reporter asked Musk about Trump’s claim that the cabinet fully supported him, Trump jumped in, saying, “Elon, let the cabinet speak just for a second.” He then added, “Is anybody unhappy with Elon? If you are, we will throw you out of here.” The room erupted in laughter and applause. Also Read | Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix Musk responded by calling it the 'best cabinet ever' Beyond the humour, Trump spoke about his commitment to balancing the national budget. Musk also admitted to a brief mistake in Ebola prevention funding, saying it was quickly corrected. He said, "Doge will certainly make mistakes as we proceed, but when we make mistakes, we'll fix it very quickly." Also Read | Russia refuses to freeze Ukraine war, rejects proposal for ceasefire along frontline He added, "We accidentally cancelled – very, very briefly – Ebola prevention. I think we all want Ebola prevention, so we restored Ebola prevention immediately. There was no disruption." (With inputs from agencies)

'Is anybody unhappy with Elon? We’ll throw you out': Trump jokes about firing cabinet members

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) confirmed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the White House on Friday this week.
"We&rsquo;re doing very well with Russia-Ukraine. President Zelensky is going to be coming on Friday. It&rsquo;s now confirmed, and we&rsquo;re going to be signing an agreement,&rdquo; Trump said.&nbsp;
Without giving much details, Trump, while addressing his first official Cabinet meeting, said that "it will be a very big agreement", referring to the minerals deal.&nbsp;
Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-hopes-to-meet-president-trump-in-us-on-feb-28-8759701">'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday</a>
<h2>1. 'Will get our money back'</h2>
The US president added that the deal would allow the US to "get our money back". "And we're going to get a lot of money in the future, and I think that's appropriate because we have taxpayers that shouldn't be footing the bill," he says. "It's all been worked out."
A peace deal could follow afterward, Trump added.&nbsp;
US President Donald Trump is holding his first official Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, with his closest ally and billionaire Elon Musk present during the meeting.&nbsp;
Musk arrived at the White House in all-black attire and his signature black "Make America Great Again" cap.&nbsp;
Trump said that one of the things he was elected to do was balance the budgets and "getting our budget back into shape".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-orders-federal-agencies-to-prepare-for-job-cuts-8759853">Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts</a>
<h2>2. 'Musk getting a lot of praise'</h2>
He then asked Musk to speak first at the meeting, saying, "Musk is sacrificing a lot... and getting a lot of praise, but he's also getting hit."
Musk stood up and said that the overall goal of the DOGE team is to "help address the enormous deficit". "We simply cannot sustain it," he says, "if this continues the country will become de facto bankrupt."
<h2>3. 'Best cabinet ever'</h2>
The billionaire then praised Trump's cabinet, saying, "It is the best cabinet ever, literally."
Earlier in the day, Trump said that "all cabinet members are extremely happy" with Elon Musk's work.
Trump interrupted Musk in the middle and asked the cabinet, "Is anybody unhappy with Elon? If you are, we will throw you out of here." He said as he joked and laughed.&nbsp;
Trump reiterated his belief that the cabinet is behind the tech billionaire and invited Musk to answer.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-elon-musk-but-amy-gleason-now-leads-trumps-doge-who-is-she-8759221">Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she?</a>
<h2>4. 'Gold card plan will sell like crazy'</h2>
Trump predicted that his "gold card" plan to replace the EB5 visa programme is going to "sell like crazy" as his administration takes steps towards monetising the US immigration system.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I want to be able to have that person stay in the country. These companies can go and buy a gold card, and they can use it as a matter of recruitment. At the same time, the company is using that money to pay down debt. We&rsquo;re going to, we&rsquo;re going to pay down a lot of debt with that,&rdquo; Trump said.
<h2>5. Tariffs on EU</h2>
The US president said that he will not be stopping tariffs on Canada or Mexico and will be announcing tariffs on the European Union soon.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It&rsquo;ll be 25% generally speaking,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;And that&rsquo;ll be on cars and all other things.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wow-musk-reacts-as-tulsi-gabbard-says-over-100-intelligence-officers-fired-over-sexually-explicit-nsa-chats-8758988">'Wow': Musk reacts as Tulsi Gabbard says over 100 intelligence officers fired over sexually explicit NSA chats</a>
<h2>6. 'Will not be making security guarantees to Ukraine'</h2>
The US president said that he will not be making &ldquo;security guarantees to Ukraine beyond very much,&rdquo; suggesting European nations take that responsibility because of geographical proximity.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not going to make security guarantees beyond very much. We&rsquo;re going to have Europe do that because it&rsquo;s in, you know &mdash; we&rsquo;re talking about, Europe is their next-door neighbour, but we&rsquo;re going to make sure everything goes well. And as you know, we&rsquo;ll be making a&mdash; we&rsquo;ll be really partnering with Ukraine, in terms of rare earth. We very much need rare earth. They have great rare earth,&rdquo; Trump said.&nbsp;
He added that his Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Energy Secretary Chris Wright would be &ldquo;working on that together.&rdquo;
<h2>7. 'I never comment on that', Trump on China</h2>
While highlighting on China-Taiwan row, Trump declined to say if his administration would move to prevent China from taking Taiwan by force.&nbsp;
"I never comment on that &mdash; I don&rsquo;t comment on anything, because I don&rsquo;t want to ever put myself in that position," he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;And if I said it, I certainly wouldn&rsquo;t be saying it to you. I&rsquo;d be saying it to other people, maybe people around this table, very specific people around this table,&rdquo; Trump added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-of-donald-trump-sucking-elon-musks-feet-plays-on-govt-screen-watch-8754577">AI video of Donald Trump sucking Elon Musk's feet plays on govt office screens - WATCH</a>
<h2>8. 'Not going to touch' entitlement programmes</h2>
Trump promised that his administration will not make cuts to entitlement programmes like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security&mdash;a promise that comes after House Republicans passed a budget blueprint that includes plans to slash $880 billion over a decade from federal health and energy programmes.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re not going to touch it,&rdquo; Trump said when pressed on whether he could guarantee Medicare, Medicare, and Social Security would not be touched.
He suggested, however, that the cuts could come from rooting out fraud.
<h2>9. Putin a 'cunning and smart guy'</h2>
Trump called Russian President Vladimir Putin a "cunning" and "very smart guy", adding that he thinks "we are going to have a deal&rdquo; regarding the war in Ukraine and said that Putin will &ldquo;have to&rdquo; make concessions.
Trump also said that he has &ldquo;great respect&rdquo; for the fighters in Ukraine, and called them &ldquo;great fighters&rdquo;.
&ldquo;But without our equipment, that war would have been over, like people said, in a very short period of time,&rdquo; he added.
He further said that NATO was "probably the reason" the war started in the first place.
<h2>10. 'EU was formed to screw the US'</h2>
The US president described the EU, whose creation was encouraged for decades by Washington, as rooted in an attempt to counter the United States.
"Look, let's be honest, the European Union was formed in order to screw the United States," Trump said at a cabinet meeting.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: Without giving much details, Trump, while addressing his first official Cabinet meeting, said that "it will be a very big agreement", referring to the minerals deal.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) confirmed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the White House on Friday this week. "We’re doing very well with Russia-Ukraine. President Zelensky is going to be coming on Friday. It’s now confirmed, and we’re going to be signing an agreement,” Trump said. Without giving much details, Trump, while addressing his first official Cabinet meeting, said that "it will be a very big agreement", referring to the minerals deal. Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States. Also read: 'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday 1. 'Will get our money back' The US president added that the deal would allow the US to "get our money back". "And we're going to get a lot of money in the future, and I think that's appropriate because we have taxpayers that shouldn't be footing the bill," he says. "It's all been worked out." A peace deal could follow afterward, Trump added. US President Donald Trump is holding his first official Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, with his closest ally and billionaire Elon Musk present during the meeting. Musk arrived at the White House in all-black attire and his signature black "Make America Great Again" cap. Trump said that one of the things he was elected to do was balance the budgets and "getting our budget back into shape". Also read: Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts 2. 'Musk getting a lot of praise' He then asked Musk to speak first at the meeting, saying, "Musk is sacrificing a lot... and getting a lot of praise, but he's also getting hit." Musk stood up and said that the overall goal of the DOGE team is to "help address the enormous deficit". "We simply cannot sustain it," he says, "if this continues the country will become de facto bankrupt." 3. 'Best cabinet ever' The billionaire then praised Trump's cabinet, saying, "It is the best cabinet ever, literally." Earlier in the day, Trump said that "all cabinet members are extremely happy" with Elon Musk's work. Trump interrupted Musk in the middle and asked the cabinet, "Is anybody unhappy with Elon? If you are, we will throw you out of here." He said as he joked and laughed. Trump reiterated his belief that the cabinet is behind the tech billionaire and invited Musk to answer. Also read: Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she? 4. 'Gold card plan will sell like crazy' Trump predicted that his "gold card" plan to replace the EB5 visa programme is going to "sell like crazy" as his administration takes steps towards monetising the US immigration system. “I want to be able to have that person stay in the country. These companies can go and buy a gold card, and they can use it as a matter of recruitment. At the same time, the company is using that money to pay down debt. We’re going to, we’re going to pay down a lot of debt with that,” Trump said. 5. Tariffs on EU The US president said that he will not be stopping tariffs on Canada or Mexico and will be announcing tariffs on the European Union soon. “It’ll be 25% generally speaking,” Trump said. “And that’ll be on cars and all other things.” Also read: 'Wow': Musk reacts as Tulsi Gabbard says over 100 intelligence officers fired over sexually explicit NSA chats 6. 'Will not be making security guarantees to Ukraine' The US president said that he will not be making “security guarantees to Ukraine beyond very much,” suggesting European nations take that responsibility because of geographical proximity. “I’m not going to make security guarantees beyond very much. We’re going to have Europe do that because it’s in, you know — we’re talking about, Europe is their next-door neighbour, but we’re going to make sure everything goes well. And as you know, we’ll be making a— we’ll be really partnering with Ukraine, in terms of rare earth. We very much need rare earth. They have great rare earth,” Trump said. He added that his Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Energy Secretary Chris Wright would be “working on that together.” 7. 'I never comment on that', Trump on China While highlighting on China-Taiwan row, Trump declined to say if his administration would move to prevent China from taking Taiwan by force. "I never comment on that — I don’t comment on anything, because I don’t want to ever put myself in that position," he said. “And if I said it, I certainly wouldn’t be saying it to you. I’d be saying it to other people, maybe people around this table, very specific people around this table,” Trump added. Also read: AI video of Donald Trump sucking Elon Musk's feet plays on govt office screens - WATCH 8. 'Not going to touch' entitlement programmes Trump promised that his administration will not make cuts to entitlement programmes like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security—a promise that comes after House Republicans passed a budget blueprint that includes plans to slash $880 billion over a decade from federal health and energy programmes. “We’re not going to touch it,” Trump said when pressed on whether he could guarantee Medicare, Medicare, and Social Security would not be touched. He suggested, however, that the cuts could come from rooting out fraud. 9. Putin a 'cunning and smart guy' Trump called Russian President Vladimir Putin a "cunning" and "very smart guy", adding that he thinks "we are going to have a deal” regarding the war in Ukraine and said that Putin will “have to” make concessions. Trump also said that he has “great respect” for the fighters in Ukraine, and called them “great fighters”. “But without our equipment, that war would have been over, like people said, in a very short period of time,” he added. He further said that NATO was "probably the reason" the war started in the first place. 10. 'EU was formed to screw the US' The US president described the EU, whose creation was encouraged for decades by Washington, as rooted in an attempt to counter the United States. "Look, let's be honest, the European Union was formed in order to screw the United States," Trump said at a cabinet meeting. (With inputs from agencies)

Confidence in nation at 'all-time high': 10 key takeaways from Trump's first official cabinet meeting

The Trump administration has directed federal agencies to prepare for large-scale job cuts as part of a plan to reduce government size. Agencies must submit their workforce reduction plans by March 13 and propose restructuring measures by April 14, including moving offices to cheaper locations.
Also Read |<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-closest-aide-elon-musk-once-called-him-a-fing-moron-report-8759664" aria-label="Trump&rsquo;s closest aide Elon Musk once called him a &lsquo;f***ing moron&rsquo;: Report"> Trump&rsquo;s closest aide Elon Musk once called him a &lsquo;f***ing moron&rsquo;: Report</a>
The Office of Management and Budget and Office of Personnel Management issued a memo Wednesday (Feb 26), instructing agencies to identify non-essential positions and consider eliminating or merging departments. Job cuts could begin by June, with full restructuring by September 30.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-holds-first-cabinet-meeting-confirms-zelenskys-visit-to-us-on-friday-8759830" aria-label="Trump holds first Cabinet meeting, confirms Zelensky's visit to US on Friday">Trump holds first Cabinet meeting, confirms Zelensky's visit to US on Friday</a>
<h2>Who will be affected?</h2>
The memo does not specify how many jobs will be cut but says agencies should start with employees deemed non-essential during government shutdowns. Some groups are exempt, including the following: &nbsp;
- Law enforcement and national security personnel &nbsp; - Uniformed military members &nbsp; - Political appointees &nbsp; - Employees of the Executive Office of the President and the US Postal Service &nbsp; - Workers in agencies like Social Security and Medicare, unless their services remain unaffected &nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-hopes-to-meet-president-trump-in-us-on-feb-28-8759701" aria-label="'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday">'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday</a>
<h2>A push for government downsizing &nbsp;</h2>
The move follows Trump&rsquo;s February 11 executive order on cutting government jobs, backed by billionaire adviser Elon Musk. Standing beside Trump in the Oval Office, Musk said, &ldquo;The people voted for major government reform.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720" aria-label="Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
The administration has already offered voluntary resignations through a programme called &ldquo;Fork in the Road,&rdquo; which allowed workers to continue receiving pay through September if they quit in February. About 75,000 employees took the offer.
(With inputs from agencies )

World: Agencies must submit their workforce reduction plans by March 13 and propose restructuring measures by April 14, including moving offices to cheaper locations.

The Trump administration has directed federal agencies to prepare for large-scale job cuts as part of a plan to reduce government size. Agencies must submit their workforce reduction plans by March 13 and propose restructuring measures by April 14, including moving offices to cheaper locations. Also Read | Trump’s closest aide Elon Musk once called him a ‘f***ing moron’: Report The Office of Management and Budget and Office of Personnel Management issued a memo Wednesday (Feb 26), instructing agencies to identify non-essential positions and consider eliminating or merging departments. Job cuts could begin by June, with full restructuring by September 30. Also Read | Trump holds first Cabinet meeting, confirms Zelensky's visit to US on Friday Who will be affected? The memo does not specify how many jobs will be cut but says agencies should start with employees deemed non-essential during government shutdowns. Some groups are exempt, including the following: - Law enforcement and national security personnel - Uniformed military members - Political appointees - Employees of the Executive Office of the President and the US Postal Service - Workers in agencies like Social Security and Medicare, unless their services remain unaffected Also Read | 'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday A push for government downsizing The move follows Trump’s February 11 executive order on cutting government jobs, backed by billionaire adviser Elon Musk. Standing beside Trump in the Oval Office, Musk said, “The people voted for major government reform.” Also Read | Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu The administration has already offered voluntary resignations through a programme called “Fork in the Road,” which allowed workers to continue receiving pay through September if they quit in February. About 75,000 employees took the offer. (With inputs from agencies )

Trump administration orders federal agencies to prepare for job cuts

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States.
In other news, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26).
Click on the headlines to read more
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony.&nbsp;
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States.
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26).
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US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) threatened to sue "dishonest" authors and media outlets that use anonymous sources.
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In a significant move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expanded his cabinet with seven Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs taking oaths as ministers as the state prepares for assembly polls later this year.
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A 'Shivling' was found stolen from the Shree Bhidbhanjan Bhavaneeshvar Mahadev temple, located near Harshad Beach in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district, on the eve of Mahashivratri, sparking a massive search operation, said officials.
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United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 25) unveiled a new residency permit for wealthy foreigners&mdash;a &lsquo;Gold Card&rsquo;.
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Joe and Anthony Russo's comeback to the Marvel Cinematic Universe with&nbsp;Avengers: Doomsday&nbsp;and&nbsp;Avengers: Secret Wars&nbsp;is highly anticipated. The films are slated for release in 2026 and 2027 but the buzz around both films is strong. The Russo brothers, as they are popularly known, admitted that new Avenger movies will be 'challenging for the audience'.&nbsp;
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&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States. In other news, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26). Click on the headlines to read more Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony. 'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States. Russia refuses to freeze Ukraine war, rejects proposal for ceasefire along the frontline in Ukraine Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26). Trump threatens to sue 'dishonest' authors, media outlets using 'anonymous sources' US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 26) threatened to sue "dishonest" authors and media outlets that use anonymous sources. Nitish Kumar expands Bihar cabinet ahead of budget session, seven BJP MLAs take oath In a significant move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expanded his cabinet with seven Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs taking oaths as ministers as the state prepares for assembly polls later this year. As Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates, here is how global media reported the 45-day event Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates on February 26, and millions of pilgrims from around the world have taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Shivling goes missing from Gujarat temple ahead of Mahashivratri; search operation underway A 'Shivling' was found stolen from the Shree Bhidbhanjan Bhavaneeshvar Mahadev temple, located near Harshad Beach in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district, on the eve of Mahashivratri, sparking a massive search operation, said officials. Gold Card vs Green Card: All you need to know about Trump’s new residency permit United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 25) unveiled a new residency permit for wealthy foreigners—a ‘Gold Card’. The Russo brothers reveal the new Avengers film will be 'challenging for the audience' Joe and Anthony Russo's comeback to the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars is highly anticipated. The films are slated for release in 2026 and 2027 but the buzz around both films is strong. The Russo brothers, as they are popularly known, admitted that new Avenger movies will be 'challenging for the audience'. Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran scripted history and broke multiple records in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) against England, becoming the first player from Afghanistan to score a century in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Top 10 world news: Hamas to return bodies of hostages 'tonight'; Zelensky plans to visit US on Friday, & more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony.&nbsp;
Hamas's military wing earlier said that the handover of the bodies of the slain hostages will likely happen tonight at 11 pm local time.
Meanwhile, the Hamas-affiliated Prisoners&rsquo; Information Office in Gaza said that the Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis is preparing to receive freed Palestinian prisoners, and they are &ldquo;expected to arrive between 10 pm and midnight.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibas-family-calls-on-israeli-officials-to-take-responsiblity-for-hostage-deaths-there-is-no-meaning-to-forgiveness-8759225">Bibas family calls on Israeli officials to take responsiblity for hostage deaths; 'no meaning to forgiveness'</a>
<h2>'No ceremony'</h2>
&ldquo;The handover will take place without public presence to prevent the occupation from finding any pretext for delay or obstruction,&rdquo; the Hamas official said.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group is expected to hand over Tsahi Idan, Ohad Yahalomi, Itzik Elgarat, and Shlomo Mantzur, the last four abductees, believed to be dead, included in the first phase of the hostage deal, which will end on Saturday.
The hostage release will happen simultaneously with Israel freeing 602 Palestinian security prisoners, whose release has been held up since Saturday to protect Hamas' propaganda displays and demeaning ceremonies during the handover of hostages.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-bodies-to-be-exchanged-for-palestinian-prisoners-as-tel-aviv-agrees-to-resume-swap-8757150">Israeli hostage bodies to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners as Tel Aviv agrees to resume swap</a>
An Israeli official told The Times of Israel that the bodies will be handed over to the Egyptians, who will then transfer them to Israel.&nbsp;
Since the final stage of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-begin-negotiations-on-second-phase-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-demands-complete-demilitarisation-8732546">ceasefire</a>, Hamas has handed over 25 hostages alive in public ceremonies that often paraded, humiliated, and sometimes even endangered the captives, drawing widespread criticism.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group also handed over the bodies of four slain hostages after first displaying the coffins on stage in front of a large crowd.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-murdered-10-month-old-kfir-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-with-bare-hands-alleges-israel-family-says-yet-to-receive-official-info-8747053">Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas's military wing earlier said that the handover of the bodies of the slain hostages will likely happen tonight at 11 pm local time.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Wednesday (Feb 26) that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will return four dead hostages tonight, without a ceremony. Hamas's military wing earlier said that the handover of the bodies of the slain hostages will likely happen tonight at 11 pm local time. Meanwhile, the Hamas-affiliated Prisoners’ Information Office in Gaza said that the Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis is preparing to receive freed Palestinian prisoners, and they are “expected to arrive between 10 pm and midnight.” Also read: Bibas family calls on Israeli officials to take responsiblity for hostage deaths; 'no meaning to forgiveness' 'No ceremony' “The handover will take place without public presence to prevent the occupation from finding any pretext for delay or obstruction,” the Hamas official said. The Palestinian militant group is expected to hand over Tsahi Idan, Ohad Yahalomi, Itzik Elgarat, and Shlomo Mantzur, the last four abductees, believed to be dead, included in the first phase of the hostage deal, which will end on Saturday. The hostage release will happen simultaneously with Israel freeing 602 Palestinian security prisoners, whose release has been held up since Saturday to protect Hamas' propaganda displays and demeaning ceremonies during the handover of hostages. Also read: Israeli hostage bodies to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners as Tel Aviv agrees to resume swap An Israeli official told The Times of Israel that the bodies will be handed over to the Egyptians, who will then transfer them to Israel. Since the final stage of the ceasefire, Hamas has handed over 25 hostages alive in public ceremonies that often paraded, humiliated, and sometimes even endangered the captives, drawing widespread criticism. The Palestinian militant group also handed over the bodies of four slain hostages after first displaying the coffins on stage in front of a large crowd. Also read: Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands' (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States.
Trump is demanding to strike a deal with Ukraine to give access to its rare earth minerals as compensation for receiving aid of billions of dollars from the US under the presidency of former president Joe Biden amid war.
A senior Ukrainian official told AFP on Tuesday (Feb 25) that Kyiv agreed on the terms of the deal with the US to jointly develop the mineral resources of the country. According to the official, Zelensky could sign the agreement as early as Friday (Feb 28) in Washington.
&ldquo;I would like to have this visit very much,&rdquo; Zelensky told reporters on Wednesday (Feb 26).
&ldquo;This is just a start, a framework, it can be a big success. The success will depend on our conversation with President Trump,&rdquo; the Ukrainian president added.
<h2>Kyiv would not be &lsquo;a debtor&rsquo;</h2>
Zelensky said that revenues generated under the resources deal would be deposited in a fund shared by Ukraine and the US. He added that Kyiv would not be &ldquo;a debtor&rdquo; over war aid provided to his country under the Biden administration.
&ldquo;This would be unfair to us,&rdquo; Zelensky said.
He also expressed that he would ask Trump whether Washington would stop the aid and whether Ukraine could still purchase weapons from the US.
Kyiv hopes the deal will improve relations between the two nations, which have recently become sour amid the war of the world between the two presidents.
Ukraine also said it wants security guarantees, although the current proposal of the deal does not include any specific security commitments to the United States, according to a senior Ukrainian official, reported AFP.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump is demanding to strike a deal with Ukraine to give access to its rare earth minerals as compensation for receiving aid of billions of dollars from the US under the presidency of former president Joe Biden amid war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Feb 26) that he hoped to visit Washington on Friday to meet President Donald Trump and discuss striking a minerals deal with the United States. Trump is demanding to strike a deal with Ukraine to give access to its rare earth minerals as compensation for receiving aid of billions of dollars from the US under the presidency of former president Joe Biden amid war. A senior Ukrainian official told AFP on Tuesday (Feb 25) that Kyiv agreed on the terms of the deal with the US to jointly develop the mineral resources of the country. According to the official, Zelensky could sign the agreement as early as Friday (Feb 28) in Washington. “I would like to have this visit very much,” Zelensky told reporters on Wednesday (Feb 26). “This is just a start, a framework, it can be a big success. The success will depend on our conversation with President Trump,” the Ukrainian president added. Kyiv would not be ‘a debtor’ Zelensky said that revenues generated under the resources deal would be deposited in a fund shared by Ukraine and the US. He added that Kyiv would not be “a debtor” over war aid provided to his country under the Biden administration. “This would be unfair to us,” Zelensky said. He also expressed that he would ask Trump whether Washington would stop the aid and whether Ukraine could still purchase weapons from the US. Kyiv hopes the deal will improve relations between the two nations, which have recently become sour amid the war of the world between the two presidents. Ukraine also said it wants security guarantees, although the current proposal of the deal does not include any specific security commitments to the United States, according to a senior Ukrainian official, reported AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

'It can be a big success': Zelensky hopes to meet Trump in US this Friday

A Pakistani intruder was shot dead early Wednesday morning by BSF troops along the international border at Pathankot in Punjab, officials said.
Border Security Force (BSF) personnel noticed some suspicious movement in the Border Outpost Tashpatan area along the IB. Despite being challenged by the BSF troops, the intruder did not stop after crossing over onto this side, they said.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-open-fire-on-army-vehicle-in-jks-rajouri-no-casualties-reported-8758931" aria-label="Terrorists open fire on army vehicle in J&amp;K's Rajouri, no casualties reported">Terrorists open fire on army vehicle in J&amp;K's Rajouri, no casualties reported</a>
The intruder was subsequently shot dead, and his identity is being ascertained, the officials said.
A spokesperson of the BSF, Jammu Frontier, said a strong protest will be lodged with Pakistan Rangers over the incident.
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-un-peacekeepers-stood-the-ground-in-congo-un-peacekeeping-chief-jean-pierre-lacroix-8759622" aria-label="Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix">Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix</a>
The BSF guards the India-Pakistan international border, including a 553-km stretch in Punjab.
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. &nbsp;

World| Border Security Force (BSF) personnel noticed some suspicious movement in the Border Outpost Tashpatan area along the IB. Despite being challenged by the BSF troops, the intruder did not stop after crossing over onto this side, they said.

A Pakistani intruder was shot dead early Wednesday morning by BSF troops along the international border at Pathankot in Punjab, officials said. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel noticed some suspicious movement in the Border Outpost Tashpatan area along the IB. Despite being challenged by the BSF troops, the intruder did not stop after crossing over onto this side, they said. Also Read | Terrorists open fire on army vehicle in J&K's Rajouri, no casualties reported The intruder was subsequently shot dead, and his identity is being ascertained, the officials said. A spokesperson of the BSF, Jammu Frontier, said a strong protest will be lodged with Pakistan Rangers over the incident. Also Read | Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix The BSF guards the India-Pakistan international border, including a 553-km stretch in Punjab. 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.

Pakistani intruder shot dead by BSF along Punjab border

Elon Musk, one of the closest aides and biggest donors of Donald Trump, has been consistently present in the Oval Office alongside the US president. However, their relationship has not always been this cordial, reveals a Politico report.
The report citing a person in the meeting details the first encounter of the two men at the White House in 2020 during Trump&rsquo;s first term in office, where the billionaire called the president a &ldquo;f***ing moron&rdquo;.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gold-card-vs-green-card-all-you-need-to-know-about-trumps-new-residency-permit-8759516">Gold Card vs Green Card: All you need to know about Trump&rsquo;s new residency permit</a>
<h2>What happened at the White House?</h2>
In 2020, shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, Trump learned about Musk&rsquo;s plans to build a Tesla factory in Mexico instead of Texas and invited him to the White House to discuss the matter.
However, a source told Politico that Musk called Trump a &ldquo;f***ing moron&rdquo; behind his back in the White House before the meeting.
&ldquo;We walk into the Oval, and he kind of looks around, and he&rsquo;s looking around,&rdquo; this person in the room said. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s like, &lsquo;Gosh, I tell you. I mean, I was just in China and man, their palaces just make the White House kind of look more like an outhouse.&rsquo;&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-elon-musk-but-amy-gleason-now-leads-trumps-doge-who-is-she-8759221">Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she?</a>
Reportedly, Trump fumed following the remark as National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow and four of his staffers stood by silently.
<h2>Past clashes between Trump and Musk</h2>
This incident was not the only one where Trump and Musk seemed to have a rocky relationship.&nbsp;
In 2017, when Trump announced the withdrawing of the US from the Paris Climate Accords, Musk, who served on three Trump advisory councils at the time, distanced himself from the president.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-sue-dishonest-authors-media-outlets-using-anonymous-sources-8759459">Trump threatens to sue 'dishonest' authors, media outlets using 'anonymous sources'</a>
&ldquo;Am departing presidential councils,&rdquo; he posted on X. &ldquo;Climate change is real. Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world.&rdquo;
The tensions were sparked again in 2022 when Musk was seeking his controversial deal to buy Twitter (now X) and said that he thinks former President Donald Trump should, &ldquo;hang up his hat &amp; sail into the sunset.&rdquo;
Trump hit back at the billionaire, taking it to his Truth Social where he said, &ldquo;When Elon Musk came to the White House asking me for help on all of his many subsidized projects, whether it&rsquo;s electric cars that don&rsquo;t drive long enough, driverless cars that crash, or rocketships to nowhere, without which subsidies he&rsquo;d be worthless, and telling me how he was a big Trump fan and Republican, I could have said, &ldquo;drop to your knees and beg,&rdquo; and he would have done it&hellip;&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wow-musk-reacts-as-tulsi-gabbard-says-over-100-intelligence-officers-fired-over-sexually-explicit-nsa-chats-8758988">'Wow': Musk reacts as Tulsi Gabbard says over 100 intelligence officers fired over sexually explicit NSA chats</a>
Despite the past differences, Musk has now become Trump&rsquo;s one of the biggest supporters and donors, investing nearly $300 million in his campaign. He is also among the closest advisors to the president currently.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The report citing a person in the meeting details the first encounter of the two men at the White House in 2020 during Trump’s first term in office, where the billionaire called the president a “f***ing moron”.

Elon Musk, one of the closest aides and biggest donors of Donald Trump, has been consistently present in the Oval Office alongside the US president. However, their relationship has not always been this cordial, reveals a Politico report. The report citing a person in the meeting details the first encounter of the two men at the White House in 2020 during Trump’s first term in office, where the billionaire called the president a “f***ing moron”. Also read | Gold Card vs Green Card: All you need to know about Trump’s new residency permit What happened at the White House? In 2020, shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, Trump learned about Musk’s plans to build a Tesla factory in Mexico instead of Texas and invited him to the White House to discuss the matter. However, a source told Politico that Musk called Trump a “f***ing moron” behind his back in the White House before the meeting. “We walk into the Oval, and he kind of looks around, and he’s looking around,” this person in the room said. “He’s like, ‘Gosh, I tell you. I mean, I was just in China and man, their palaces just make the White House kind of look more like an outhouse.’” Also read | Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she? Reportedly, Trump fumed following the remark as National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow and four of his staffers stood by silently. Past clashes between Trump and Musk This incident was not the only one where Trump and Musk seemed to have a rocky relationship. In 2017, when Trump announced the withdrawing of the US from the Paris Climate Accords, Musk, who served on three Trump advisory councils at the time, distanced himself from the president. Also read | Trump threatens to sue 'dishonest' authors, media outlets using 'anonymous sources' “Am departing presidential councils,” he posted on X. “Climate change is real. Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world.” The tensions were sparked again in 2022 when Musk was seeking his controversial deal to buy Twitter (now X) and said that he thinks former President Donald Trump should, “hang up his hat & sail into the sunset.” Trump hit back at the billionaire, taking it to his Truth Social where he said, “When Elon Musk came to the White House asking me for help on all of his many subsidized projects, whether it’s electric cars that don’t drive long enough, driverless cars that crash, or rocketships to nowhere, without which subsidies he’d be worthless, and telling me how he was a big Trump fan and Republican, I could have said, “drop to your knees and beg,” and he would have done it…” Also read | 'Wow': Musk reacts as Tulsi Gabbard says over 100 intelligence officers fired over sexually explicit NSA chats Despite the past differences, Musk has now become Trump’s one of the biggest supporters and donors, investing nearly $300 million in his campaign. He is also among the closest advisors to the president currently. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump’s closest aide Elon Musk once called him a ‘f***ing moron’: Report

A mystery disease has killed over 50 people in the northwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), doctors in the central African nation, and the World Health Organisation.&nbsp;
The disease was first reported after three children ate a bat, and claimed over 50 lives in just five weeks.&nbsp;
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 431 cases were reported and 53 deaths in two outbreaks across remote villages in Equateur province as of February 16.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rwandan-backed-m23-declares-ceasefire-in-drc-for-humanitarian-reasons-8690972">Rwandan-backed M23 declares ceasefire in DRC &lsquo;for humanitarian reasons&rsquo;</a>
The interval between the onset of symptoms and death has been just 48 hours in the majority of cases, and "that's what's really worrying", Serge Ngalebato, medical director of Bikoro Hospital, a regional monitoring center, told The Associated Press on Monday.
<h2>What are the symptoms?</h2>
The symptoms include fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding, with most patients dying within 48 hours of onset.&nbsp;
"The outbreaks, which have seen cases rise rapidly within days, pose a significant public health threat. The exact cause remains unknown," a WHO spokesperson said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-chinese-nationals-two-others-killed-in-attack-on-convoy-carrying-gold-in-democratic-republic-of-congo-631785">Two Chinese nationals, two others killed in attack on convoy carrying gold in Democratic Republic of Congo</a>
For long, there have been concerns about diseases jumping from animals to humans in places where wild animals are popularly eaten.&nbsp;
Such outbreaks in Africa have surged by more than 60 per cent in the last decade.&nbsp;
Notably, in 2024, another mystery flu-like illness killed more than 143 people in another part of Congo and was determined to be likely malaria.
The DRC has been witnessing many disease outbreaks in recent years, including typhoid, malaria, and anemia.&nbsp;
According to the WHO, the country has also recently grappled with an Mpox outbreak, with more than 47,000 suspected cases and over 1,000 suspected deaths from the disease.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 431 cases were reported and 53 deaths in two outbreaks across remote villages in Equateur province as of February 16.

A mystery disease has killed over 50 people in the northwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), doctors in the central African nation, and the World Health Organisation. The disease was first reported after three children ate a bat, and claimed over 50 lives in just five weeks. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 431 cases were reported and 53 deaths in two outbreaks across remote villages in Equateur province as of February 16. Also read: Rwandan-backed M23 declares ceasefire in DRC ‘for humanitarian reasons’ The interval between the onset of symptoms and death has been just 48 hours in the majority of cases, and "that's what's really worrying", Serge Ngalebato, medical director of Bikoro Hospital, a regional monitoring center, told The Associated Press on Monday. What are the symptoms? The symptoms include fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding, with most patients dying within 48 hours of onset. "The outbreaks, which have seen cases rise rapidly within days, pose a significant public health threat. The exact cause remains unknown," a WHO spokesperson said. Also read: Two Chinese nationals, two others killed in attack on convoy carrying gold in Democratic Republic of Congo For long, there have been concerns about diseases jumping from animals to humans in places where wild animals are popularly eaten. Such outbreaks in Africa have surged by more than 60 per cent in the last decade. Notably, in 2024, another mystery flu-like illness killed more than 143 people in another part of Congo and was determined to be likely malaria. The DRC has been witnessing many disease outbreaks in recent years, including typhoid, malaria, and anemia. According to the WHO, the country has also recently grappled with an Mpox outbreak, with more than 47,000 suspected cases and over 1,000 suspected deaths from the disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Mystery disease kills over 50 people in DR Congo - Know the symptoms

New Delhi: Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations at the United Nations, has commended the steadfast efforts of Indian UN peacekeepers amid escalating violence in eastern Congo. Stationed in some of the most perilous and unstable areas of the country, such as North Kivu, Indian troops deployed at the UN mission are confronting a deteriorating situation, fuelled largely by the M23 rebel group.
Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, Lacroix emphasised the UN&rsquo;s commitment to their safety, stating, &ldquo;We will do everything possible to ensure the safety of our peacekeepers. I want to pay tribute to all of them, including Indian peacekeepers, yes, it&rsquo;s challenging, they are standing their ground and it&rsquo;s highly appreciated.&rdquo;
Indian peacekeepers serve under MONUSCO, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where India ranks among the top contributors of troops.&nbsp; Lacroix elaborated on the challenging circumstances, noting, &ldquo;It is not an easy environment because most of the Indian peacekeepers, most of them in the M23-occupied areas. Indian peacekeepers are under restrictions, including movement.&rdquo;&nbsp; He added, &ldquo;India is an important country, an important troop contributing in world. We do everything possible to make sure our peacekeepers are safe. We are working on camp protection.&rdquo;
Congo&rsquo;s turbulent history has taken a heavy toll on Indian personnel serving in UN missions. In 2022, two Indian peacekeepers from the Border Security Force, Head Constable Shishupal Singh and Head Constable Sanwala Ram Vishnoi, lost their lives during violent anti-UN protests in Butembo, where a mob of 500 attacked a MONUSCO base.&nbsp; Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-20-civil-service-employees-resigned-from-trumps-doge-in-protest-8758303" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Over 20 civil service employees resigned from Trump&rsquo;s DOGE in protest</a> Previously, in 2010, three soldiers from the 19 Kumaon Regiment were killed in a sudden assault by Mayi-Mayi rebels on their outpost in Kirumba, North Kivu.&nbsp; Lacroix, who is travelling from Delhi to Congo to evaluate the situation firsthand, praised the dedication of Indian troops, saying, &ldquo;Indian peacekeepers are present in most of our peacekeeping missions. They are serving with commitment. I want to thank India for that.&rdquo;
He also advocated for reforms within the UN, stressing that the organisation must be &ldquo;more representative of today&rsquo;s international reality is very important&rdquo; and noted that the Secretary General &ldquo;has time and again insisted on the importance of bringing about reforms of international governance, including reform of the Security Council&rdquo;. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gaza-number-one-us-president-shares-his-vision-of-post-war-region-with-netanyahu-chilling-by-pool-8758822" rel="noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Trump Gaza number one&rsquo;: US president shares his vision of post-war region, with Netanyahu chilling by pool</a> Lacroix&rsquo;s visit to Delhi coincided with the inaugural Conference for Women Peacekeepers, attended by representatives from 35 leading Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) from the Global South. The event saw addresses by India&rsquo;s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Secretary (West) Tanmaya Lal, Indian Army Vice Chief Lt. General NS Raja Subramani, and Deputy Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Rakesh Kapoor. Women peacekeepers also met with President Droupadi Murmu during the visit.
India has long been a key pillar of UN peacekeeping, deploying nearly 300,000 troops across over 50 UN missions since the 1950s. Currently, over 5,000 Indian troops serve in 9 of the 11 active UN peacekeeping missions, including high-risk conflict zones. India has lost 180 peacekeepers in service of global peace, making the highest sacrifice among all troop-contributing nations. India has also led the way in deploying women to UN missions, starting as early as the 1960s. Dr. Kiran Bedi broke ground as the first woman UN Police Advisor from 2003 to 2005. In 2007, India made history by sending an all-female Formed Police Unit (FPU) to Liberia, which served until 2016. Presently, 154 Indian women in uniform contribute to UN missions, including three Female Engagement Teams in Abyei, Congo, and South Sudan. Major Suman Gawani (2019) and Major Radhika Sen (2023) have been recognised with the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for their exceptional work. Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-sell-5-million-gold-cards-offering-wealthy-foreigners-us-residency-and-citizenship-us-citizenship-green-card-8757321" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump to sell $5 million 'gold cards', offering rich foreigners US residency and citizenship</a> Beyond troop contributions, India has spearheaded peacekeeping innovations, such as donating 200,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses for UN peacekeepers globally, creating the UNITE AWARE platform to boost situational awareness, and championing the UN Peacekeepers&rsquo; Memorial Wall, a proposal backed by an unprecedented 190 co-sponsoring nations at the United Nations. The Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in India, a UN-accredited training hub, has prepared over 2,000 officers from 96 countries for service.

World India News: India has long been a key pillar of UN peacekeeping, deploying nearly 300,000 troops across over 50 UN missions since the 1950s. Currently, over 5,000 Indian troops serve in 9 of the 11 active UN peacekeeping missions.

New Delhi: Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations at the United Nations, has commended the steadfast efforts of Indian UN peacekeepers amid escalating violence in eastern Congo. Stationed in some of the most perilous and unstable areas of the country, such as North Kivu, Indian troops deployed at the UN mission are confronting a deteriorating situation, fuelled largely by the M23 rebel group. Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, Lacroix emphasised the UN’s commitment to their safety, stating, “We will do everything possible to ensure the safety of our peacekeepers. I want to pay tribute to all of them, including Indian peacekeepers, yes, it’s challenging, they are standing their ground and it’s highly appreciated.” Indian peacekeepers serve under MONUSCO, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where India ranks among the top contributors of troops. Lacroix elaborated on the challenging circumstances, noting, “It is not an easy environment because most of the Indian peacekeepers, most of them in the M23-occupied areas. Indian peacekeepers are under restrictions, including movement.” He added, “India is an important country, an important troop contributing in world. We do everything possible to make sure our peacekeepers are safe. We are working on camp protection.” Congo’s turbulent history has taken a heavy toll on Indian personnel serving in UN missions. In 2022, two Indian peacekeepers from the Border Security Force, Head Constable Shishupal Singh and Head Constable Sanwala Ram Vishnoi, lost their lives during violent anti-UN protests in Butembo, where a mob of 500 attacked a MONUSCO base. Also read: Over 20 civil service employees resigned from Trump’s DOGE in protest Previously, in 2010, three soldiers from the 19 Kumaon Regiment were killed in a sudden assault by Mayi-Mayi rebels on their outpost in Kirumba, North Kivu. Lacroix, who is travelling from Delhi to Congo to evaluate the situation firsthand, praised the dedication of Indian troops, saying, “Indian peacekeepers are present in most of our peacekeeping missions. They are serving with commitment. I want to thank India for that.” He also advocated for reforms within the UN, stressing that the organisation must be “more representative of today’s international reality is very important” and noted that the Secretary General “has time and again insisted on the importance of bringing about reforms of international governance, including reform of the Security Council”. Also read: ‘Trump Gaza number one’: US president shares his vision of post-war region, with Netanyahu chilling by pool Lacroix’s visit to Delhi coincided with the inaugural Conference for Women Peacekeepers, attended by representatives from 35 leading Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) from the Global South. The event saw addresses by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Secretary (West) Tanmaya Lal, Indian Army Vice Chief Lt. General NS Raja Subramani, and Deputy Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Rakesh Kapoor. Women peacekeepers also met with President Droupadi Murmu during the visit. India has long been a key pillar of UN peacekeeping, deploying nearly 300,000 troops across over 50 UN missions since the 1950s. Currently, over 5,000 Indian troops serve in 9 of the 11 active UN peacekeeping missions, including high-risk conflict zones. India has lost 180 peacekeepers in service of global peace, making the highest sacrifice among all troop-contributing nations. India has also led the way in deploying women to UN missions, starting as early as the 1960s. Dr. Kiran Bedi broke ground as the first woman UN Police Advisor from 2003 to 2005. In 2007, India made history by sending an all-female Formed Police Unit (FPU) to Liberia, which served until 2016. Presently, 154 Indian women in uniform contribute to UN missions, including three Female Engagement Teams in Abyei, Congo, and South Sudan. Major Suman Gawani (2019) and Major Radhika Sen (2023) have been recognised with the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for their exceptional work. Also read | Trump to sell $5 million 'gold cards', offering rich foreigners US residency and citizenship Beyond troop contributions, India has spearheaded peacekeeping innovations, such as donating 200,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses for UN peacekeepers globally, creating the UNITE AWARE platform to boost situational awareness, and championing the UN Peacekeepers’ Memorial Wall, a proposal backed by an unprecedented 190 co-sponsoring nations at the United Nations. The Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in India, a UN-accredited training hub, has prepared over 2,000 officers from 96 countries for service.

Indian UN peacekeepers stood the ground in Congo: UN Peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26).
Lavrov emphasised that Russia has a constitution to uphold and cannot agree to any deals that would involve further arming the Ukrainian government.&nbsp;
"We have a constitution," he said, adding that such a cessation in fighting is not feasible.
The Russian Foreign Minister also highlighted that they will not accept any agreements that involve further arming the Ukrainian government.
"It is impossible to enter into agreements that would involve pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons again," he concluded.
Lavrov had earlier rejected the notion of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine, stating that Russia hasn't received any such proposal and doesn't view it as a viable option.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-all-for-all-pow-swap-as-start-of-ending-war-8752452">Also read: Zelensky proposes &lsquo;all for all&rsquo; POW swap with Russia as &lsquo;start&rsquo; of ending war</a>
<h2>Zelensky to ask Trump if he will 'stop' US aid</h2>
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Wednesday (Feb 26), expressed hope to visit Washington on Friday, aiming to secure a minerals deal with the United States and discuss potential future aid.&nbsp;
"I would like to have this visit very much," Zelensky told reporters on Wednesday.
"This is just a start, a framework, it can be a big success. The success will depend on our conversation with President Trump," he added.
He further said that he would ask Trump if the US would halt the aid entirely, and if yes, then whether Ukraine could continue purchasing weapons from the United States.
He then said that revenues generated from a resources deal would be deposited into a joint fund owned by Ukraine and the United States and that Kyiv would not be "a debtor" over aid provided under the Biden administration.&nbsp;
"This would be unfair to us," Zelensky said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Lavrov had earlier rejected the notion of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine, stating that Russia hasn't received any such proposal and doesn't view it as a viable option.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire along the contact line in Ukraine, Russian state media reported on Wednesday (Feb 26). Lavrov emphasised that Russia has a constitution to uphold and cannot agree to any deals that would involve further arming the Ukrainian government. "We have a constitution," he said, adding that such a cessation in fighting is not feasible. The Russian Foreign Minister also highlighted that they will not accept any agreements that involve further arming the Ukrainian government. "It is impossible to enter into agreements that would involve pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons again," he concluded. Lavrov had earlier rejected the notion of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine, stating that Russia hasn't received any such proposal and doesn't view it as a viable option. Also read: Zelensky proposes ‘all for all’ POW swap with Russia as ‘start’ of ending war Zelensky to ask Trump if he will 'stop' US aid Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Wednesday (Feb 26), expressed hope to visit Washington on Friday, aiming to secure a minerals deal with the United States and discuss potential future aid. "I would like to have this visit very much," Zelensky told reporters on Wednesday. "This is just a start, a framework, it can be a big success. The success will depend on our conversation with President Trump," he added. He further said that he would ask Trump if the US would halt the aid entirely, and if yes, then whether Ukraine could continue purchasing weapons from the United States. He then said that revenues generated from a resources deal would be deposited into a joint fund owned by Ukraine and the United States and that Kyiv would not be "a debtor" over aid provided under the Biden administration. "This would be unfair to us," Zelensky said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia refuses to freeze Ukraine war, rejects proposal for ceasefire along frontline

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 25) unveiled a new residency permit for wealthy foreigners&mdash;a &lsquo;Gold Card&rsquo;.
The president announced that he would sell this new &lsquo;Gold Card&rsquo; to rich foreign nationals, allowing them a right to live and work in the US, similar to the coveted &lsquo;green card&rsquo;.
<h2>What is Gold Card and how is it different from Green Card?</h2>
While the Green Card grants people permanent residency in the US, usually through employment, family sponsorship, or investment (via EB-5), the Gold Card offers the same benefits for a whopping $5 million purchase price to help fast-track US citizenship for wealthy applicants.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-sell-5-million-gold-cards-offering-wealthy-foreigners-us-residency-and-citizenship-us-citizenship-green-card-8757321">Trump to sell $5 million 'gold cards', offering rich foreigners US residency and citizenship</a>
The Green Card offers US residency on the basis of merit or relationship criteria. However, a Gold Card will serve as a direct route for wealthy foreigners to obtain residency.
The Gold Cards would replace the government&rsquo;s EB-5 immigrant investor visa programme. This route allowed foreign investors to pump money into US projects that create jobs and then apply for visas to immigrate to the US. Currently, the programme issues green cards to immigrants who invest at least $1,050,000, or $800,000 in economically distressed zones called targeted employment areas to create jobs for American workers.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-fix-iphone-dictation-glitch-that-suggested-trump-for-racist-8759472">Apple to fix iPhone dictation glitch that suggested &lsquo;Trump&rsquo; for &lsquo;racist&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Who can purchase the &lsquo;Gold Card&rsquo;?</h2>
The president announced that the &lsquo;Gold Card&rsquo; would be available for anyone who can afford it, provided they clear the vetting process. The cost of securing US citizenship through this method would be $5 million.
&ldquo;You have a green card. This is a gold card. We're going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million and that's going to give you green card privileges, plus it's going to be a route to citizenship. And wealthy people would be coming into our country by buying this card,&rdquo; Trump announced, speaking from the Oval Office at the White House.
According to Trump, even Russian oligarchs&mdash;usually heavily sanctioned by the US&mdash;could buy this gold card and US citizenship.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-sue-dishonest-authors-media-outlets-using-anonymous-sources-8759459">Trump threatens to sue 'dishonest' authors, media outlets using 'anonymous sources'</a>
The sale of these &lsquo;gold cards&rsquo; would begin in the next two weeks, said the US president, adding that millions of such cards could be sold to the highest bidders.
<h2>Why did Trump introduce &lsquo;Gold Card&rsquo;?</h2>
Trump claimed that the new programme would generate significant revenue that would help in paying back the national debt. He further predicted strong interest from wealthy individuals and suggested selling one million gold cards.
Trump&rsquo;s Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who was standing alongside Trump as the announcement was made, said that the EB-5 visa programme was being exploited and has been priced too low.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-elon-musk-but-amy-gleason-now-leads-trumps-doge-who-is-she-8759221">Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she?</a>
&ldquo;The EB-5 program ... it was full of nonsense, make believe and fraud, and it was a way to get a green card that was low price. So the president said, rather than having this sort of ridiculous EB-5 program, we're going to end the EB-5 program. We're going to replace it with the Trump gold card,&rdquo; he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The US president announced that he would sell this new ‘Gold Card’ to rich foreign nationals, allowing them a right to live and work in the US, similar to the coveted ‘green card’.

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Feb 25) unveiled a new residency permit for wealthy foreigners—a ‘Gold Card’. The president announced that he would sell this new ‘Gold Card’ to rich foreign nationals, allowing them a right to live and work in the US, similar to the coveted ‘green card’. What is Gold Card and how is it different from Green Card? While the Green Card grants people permanent residency in the US, usually through employment, family sponsorship, or investment (via EB-5), the Gold Card offers the same benefits for a whopping $5 million purchase price to help fast-track US citizenship for wealthy applicants. Also read | Trump to sell $5 million 'gold cards', offering rich foreigners US residency and citizenship The Green Card offers US residency on the basis of merit or relationship criteria. However, a Gold Card will serve as a direct route for wealthy foreigners to obtain residency. The Gold Cards would replace the government’s EB-5 immigrant investor visa programme. This route allowed foreign investors to pump money into US projects that create jobs and then apply for visas to immigrate to the US. Currently, the programme issues green cards to immigrants who invest at least $1,050,000, or $800,000 in economically distressed zones called targeted employment areas to create jobs for American workers. Also read | Apple to fix iPhone dictation glitch that suggested ‘Trump’ for ‘racist’ Who can purchase the ‘Gold Card’? The president announced that the ‘Gold Card’ would be available for anyone who can afford it, provided they clear the vetting process. The cost of securing US citizenship through this method would be $5 million. “You have a green card. This is a gold card. We're going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million and that's going to give you green card privileges, plus it's going to be a route to citizenship. And wealthy people would be coming into our country by buying this card,” Trump announced, speaking from the Oval Office at the White House. According to Trump, even Russian oligarchs—usually heavily sanctioned by the US—could buy this gold card and US citizenship. Also read | Trump threatens to sue 'dishonest' authors, media outlets using 'anonymous sources' The sale of these ‘gold cards’ would begin in the next two weeks, said the US president, adding that millions of such cards could be sold to the highest bidders. Why did Trump introduce ‘Gold Card’? Trump claimed that the new programme would generate significant revenue that would help in paying back the national debt. He further predicted strong interest from wealthy individuals and suggested selling one million gold cards. Trump’s Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who was standing alongside Trump as the announcement was made, said that the EB-5 visa programme was being exploited and has been priced too low. Also read | Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she? “The EB-5 program ... it was full of nonsense, make believe and fraud, and it was a way to get a green card that was low price. So the president said, rather than having this sort of ridiculous EB-5 program, we're going to end the EB-5 program. We're going to replace it with the Trump gold card,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Gold Card vs Green Card: All you need to know about Trump’s new residency permit

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