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The Associated Press filed a lawsuit against three White House officials on Friday after the news agency was barred from some of US President Donald Trump's events.
The AP, in the suit filed in a federal court in Washington, said the denial of access violates the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and of the press.
The White House began blocking AP journalists from the Oval Office 10 days ago over the news agency's refusal to follow Trump's executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America."
The ban on AP reporters was later extended to Air Force One.
The news group said it was bringing the suit against three Trump administration officials to "vindicate its rights to the editorial independence guaranteed by the United States Constitution."
"The White House has ordered The Associated Press to use certain words in its coverage or else face an indefinite denial of access," the AP said.
"The press and all people in the United States have the right to choose their own words and not be retaliated against by the government," it said.
"The Constitution does not allow the government to control speech. Allowing such government control and retaliation to stand is a threat to every American's freedom."
The suit names as defendants White House chief of staff Susan Wiles and deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich, as well as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
"We'll see them in court," Leavitt said during an appearance Friday at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington.&nbsp;
"We feel we are in the right. We are going to ensure that truth and accuracy is present at that White House every single day," she said.
In its style guide, the AP noted that the Gulf of Mexico has "carried that name for more than 400 years."
"The Associated Press will refer to it by its original name while acknowledging the new name Trump has chosen," it said.
"As a global news agency that disseminates news around the world, the AP must ensure that place names and geography are easily recognizable to all audiences."
Trump called the AP a "radical left organization" on Thursday and said the new Gulf of America name is "something that we feel strongly about."
His leveraging of press access underscores the Republican president's longstanding animosity toward traditional news outlets, which he accuses of bias against him.
The White House Correspondents' Association has called AP's exclusion from Trump events "outrageous."
The 180-year-old news agency has long been a pillar of US journalism and provides news to print, TV and radio outlets across the United States and around the world.&nbsp;
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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.
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World  | The AP, in the suit filed in a federal court in Washington, said the denial of access violates the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and of the press.

The Associated Press filed a lawsuit against three White House officials on Friday after the news agency was barred from some of US President Donald Trump's events. The AP, in the suit filed in a federal court in Washington, said the denial of access violates the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and of the press. The White House began blocking AP journalists from the Oval Office 10 days ago over the news agency's refusal to follow Trump's executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America." The ban on AP reporters was later extended to Air Force One. The news group said it was bringing the suit against three Trump administration officials to "vindicate its rights to the editorial independence guaranteed by the United States Constitution." "The White House has ordered The Associated Press to use certain words in its coverage or else face an indefinite denial of access," the AP said. "The press and all people in the United States have the right to choose their own words and not be retaliated against by the government," it said. "The Constitution does not allow the government to control speech. Allowing such government control and retaliation to stand is a threat to every American's freedom." The suit names as defendants White House chief of staff Susan Wiles and deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich, as well as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. "We'll see them in court," Leavitt said during an appearance Friday at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington. "We feel we are in the right. We are going to ensure that truth and accuracy is present at that White House every single day," she said. In its style guide, the AP noted that the Gulf of Mexico has "carried that name for more than 400 years." "The Associated Press will refer to it by its original name while acknowledging the new name Trump has chosen," it said. "As a global news agency that disseminates news around the world, the AP must ensure that place names and geography are easily recognizable to all audiences." Trump called the AP a "radical left organization" on Thursday and said the new Gulf of America name is "something that we feel strongly about." His leveraging of press access underscores the Republican president's longstanding animosity toward traditional news outlets, which he accuses of bias against him. The White House Correspondents' Association has called AP's exclusion from Trump events "outrageous." The 180-year-old news agency has long been a pillar of US journalism and provides news to print, TV and radio outlets across the United States and around the world. 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.

AP news agency sues Trump admin officials over Oval Office snub

India-origin Kashyap 'Kash' Patel took oath as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on the Hindu holy book Bhagavad Gita on Friday (Feb 21).&nbsp;
After being sworn in as the 9th FBI director, Patel addressed the people present in the ceremony and highlighted how his "American dream" was alive and thriving as a first-generation Indian set to lead department.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-kash-patels-bollywood-style-malhari-welcome-as-fbi-director-trumps-assistant-posts-viral-video-8743499">WATCH | Bollywood-style 'Malhari' welcome for FBI director Kash Patel; Trump's assistant posts viral video</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fnhe1u-e4kbbnt1-bklqtp7q">
Kash Patel takes oath on the Bhagavad Gita, as the 9th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (Source: Reuters)#KashPatel #FBI #DonaldTrump #TreyGowdy #USPolitics pic.twitter.com/SkjbywY9Ny
&mdash; WION (@WIONews)
<div><a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1893132734765146404?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></div>
</blockquote>
"I am the living the American dream, and anyone who thinks the American dream is dead, look right here," Patel said in his speech taking pride in his Indian roots.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-americans-in-trump-20s-who-are-indian-american-officials-in-donald-trumps-administration-8743080">India connect of Team Trump: Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, several Indian-Americans hold key posts in Donald Trump's administration</a>
"You're talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation on earth. That can't happen anywhere else... I promise that there will be accountability within the FBI and outside of it," he added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fmi3vv-rvj48s4o-90l7m492">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Washington | Director of the FBI, Kash Patel says, "I am the living the American dream, and anyone who thinks the American dream is dead, look right here. You're talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/5nLeclVeXn">pic.twitter.com/5nLeclVeXn</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1893067981565108306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'Best ever at that position'</h2>
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump praised Patel and called him the "best ever at that position".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-kash-patel-confirmed-as-fbi-director-donald-trump-senate-confirmation-vote-8741481">'You will regret this to your&nbsp;grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director</a>
"One of the reasons I love Kash (Patel) and wanted to put him in is because of the respect the agents had for him. He will go down as the best ever at that position. Turned out he was very easy to get approved. He is a tough and strong guy. He has his opinions... Trey Gowdy came out with an incredible statement and said that Kash is an incredible person and people don't realise it. When he said that, there was no doubt left. It was a big statement made by someone who is respected and is on the moderate side..," Trump said.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fmig6h-eaqhhfq0-y092goug">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On Kash Patel to be sworn in as the Director of FBI, US President Donald Trump says, "... One of the reasons I love Kash (Patel) and wanted to put him in is because of the respect the agents had for him. He will go down as the best ever at that position. Turned out he&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/DKMLoQbkEG">pic.twitter.com/DKMLoQbkEG</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1893064243664298124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'Time we restore integrity'</h2>
The White House took to the social media platform X to swelcome Patel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-pick-kash-patel-accused-of-sercretly-arranging-firings-before-confirmation-8712232">'Lied under oath': Trump&rsquo;s FBI pick Kash Patel accused of 'secretly' arranging firings before confirmation</a>
"@FBIDirectorKash has officially been sworn in as the Director of the FBI by @AGPamBondi. It&rsquo;s time we restore integrity and justice at the FBI. MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN!" the post on White House's page read.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fmin19-lsvbgffa-cy9dkyt3">
🇺🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBIDirectorKash</a> has officially been sworn in as the Director of the FBI by <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a>. It&rsquo;s time we restore integrity and justice at the FBI. MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN! <a href="https://t.co/XCyo6HzThf">pic.twitter.com/XCyo6HzThf</a>
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1893087917360222275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World | India News | India-origin Kashyap 'Kash' Patel took oath as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on the Hindu holy book Bhagavad Gita on Friday (Feb 21).

India-origin Kashyap 'Kash' Patel took oath as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on the Hindu holy book Bhagavad Gita on Friday (Feb 21). After being sworn in as the 9th FBI director, Patel addressed the people present in the ceremony and highlighted how his "American dream" was alive and thriving as a first-generation Indian set to lead department. Also read: WATCH | Bollywood-style 'Malhari' welcome for FBI director Kash Patel; Trump's assistant posts viral video Kash Patel takes oath on the Bhagavad Gita, as the 9th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (Source: Reuters)#KashPatel #FBI #DonaldTrump #TreyGowdy #USPolitics pic.twitter.com/SkjbywY9Ny — WION (@WIONews) February 22, 2025 "I am the living the American dream, and anyone who thinks the American dream is dead, look right here," Patel said in his speech taking pride in his Indian roots. Also read: India connect of Team Trump: Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, several Indian-Americans hold key posts in Donald Trump's administration "You're talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation on earth. That can't happen anywhere else... I promise that there will be accountability within the FBI and outside of it," he added. #WATCH | Washington | Director of the FBI, Kash Patel says, "I am the living the American dream, and anyone who thinks the American dream is dead, look right here. You're talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation… pic.twitter.com/5nLeclVeXn — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2025 'Best ever at that position' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump praised Patel and called him the "best ever at that position". Also read: 'You will regret this to your grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director "One of the reasons I love Kash (Patel) and wanted to put him in is because of the respect the agents had for him. He will go down as the best ever at that position. Turned out he was very easy to get approved. He is a tough and strong guy. He has his opinions... Trey Gowdy came out with an incredible statement and said that Kash is an incredible person and people don't realise it. When he said that, there was no doubt left. It was a big statement made by someone who is respected and is on the moderate side..," Trump said. #WATCH | On Kash Patel to be sworn in as the Director of FBI, US President Donald Trump says, "... One of the reasons I love Kash (Patel) and wanted to put him in is because of the respect the agents had for him. He will go down as the best ever at that position. Turned out he… pic.twitter.com/DKMLoQbkEG — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2025 'Time we restore integrity' The White House took to the social media platform X to swelcome Patel. Also read: 'Lied under oath': Trump’s FBI pick Kash Patel accused of 'secretly' arranging firings before confirmation "@FBIDirectorKash has officially been sworn in as the Director of the FBI by @AGPamBondi. It’s time we restore integrity and justice at the FBI. MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN!" the post on White House's page read. 🇺🇸 @FBIDirectorKash has officially been sworn in as the Director of the FBI by @AGPamBondi. It’s time we restore integrity and justice at the FBI. MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/XCyo6HzThf — The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 21, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | New FBI Director Kash Patel takes oath on Bhagavad Gita, says living his 'American dream'

Terming ties with India as "close", Oman foreign minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi has said that the "sky's the limit" for the relationship between the two countries. Speaking to WION in Muscat, on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference, FM Busaidi said, while both countries are celebrating 70 years of formal diplomatic relationship this year, "relationship with India extends far beyond that. It's 5,000 years of connection between the people of India and the people of Oman and this region, we are very much really blessed, I think, to have such a beautiful, constructive, close relationship with India."&nbsp;
Earlier this week, both Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Oman FM jointly released a logo to celebrate 70 years of ties between the two countries and a book "Mandvi to Muscat" that details the diaspora connections between the two countries. The foreign minister pointed out that the "potential for further growth and further partnership in all fields is there to be grasped by governments, by the private sector, by the young people of both countries."
Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik visited India in December 2023 while PM Modi visited the country in 2018. During India's G20 Presidency, it invited Oman as one of the guest countries. Oman is India&rsquo;s oldest Gulf defence partner, with formal ties since 1972.&nbsp;
Joint exercises like Naseem Al Bahr (naval, last held November 2022) and Al Najah (army, latest in September 2024) occur biennially across all three services. Bilateral trade more than doubled from USD 5.4 billion in 2020-21 to USD 12.3 billion in 2022-23. Both countries are currently negotiating the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
<h2>India-Mauritius ties</h2>
The country, earlier this month hosted the mega Indian Ocean Conference that saw the gathering of several foreign ministers from the Indian Ocean region, including India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. Pointing out that Oman has been a "seafaring nation for millennia", the foreign minister said, "We will continue to play our friendship and openness with all the countries in the Indian Ocean with which we really have a very, very constructive and healthy relationship."&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-oman-ties-firing-on-all-cylinders-ambassador-amit-narang-8725003" rel="dofollow">India, Oman ties firing on all cylinders: Ambassador Amit Narang</a>
He invited "everybody to Oman and to engage with Oman, our location really invites connectivity with South East Asia, with West Asia, all the way south also to Africa, I think really can play a very important role, along with our partners in the region." Duqm port, located in Oman&rsquo;s Al Wusta Governorate on the southeastern coast, has emerged as a strategic forward logistics hub for India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The country, earlier this month hosted the mega Indian Ocean Conference that saw the gathering of several foreign ministers from the Indian Ocean region, including India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

Terming ties with India as "close", Oman foreign minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi has said that the "sky's the limit" for the relationship between the two countries. Speaking to WION in Muscat, on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference, FM Busaidi said, while both countries are celebrating 70 years of formal diplomatic relationship this year, "relationship with India extends far beyond that. It's 5,000 years of connection between the people of India and the people of Oman and this region, we are very much really blessed, I think, to have such a beautiful, constructive, close relationship with India." Earlier this week, both Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Oman FM jointly released a logo to celebrate 70 years of ties between the two countries and a book "Mandvi to Muscat" that details the diaspora connections between the two countries. The foreign minister pointed out that the "potential for further growth and further partnership in all fields is there to be grasped by governments, by the private sector, by the young people of both countries." Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik visited India in December 2023 while PM Modi visited the country in 2018. During India's G20 Presidency, it invited Oman as one of the guest countries. Oman is India’s oldest Gulf defence partner, with formal ties since 1972. Joint exercises like Naseem Al Bahr (naval, last held November 2022) and Al Najah (army, latest in September 2024) occur biennially across all three services. Bilateral trade more than doubled from USD 5.4 billion in 2020-21 to USD 12.3 billion in 2022-23. Both countries are currently negotiating the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). India-Mauritius ties The country, earlier this month hosted the mega Indian Ocean Conference that saw the gathering of several foreign ministers from the Indian Ocean region, including India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. Pointing out that Oman has been a "seafaring nation for millennia", the foreign minister said, "We will continue to play our friendship and openness with all the countries in the Indian Ocean with which we really have a very, very constructive and healthy relationship." Also Read: India, Oman ties firing on all cylinders: Ambassador Amit Narang He invited "everybody to Oman and to engage with Oman, our location really invites connectivity with South East Asia, with West Asia, all the way south also to Africa, I think really can play a very important role, along with our partners in the region." Duqm port, located in Oman’s Al Wusta Governorate on the southeastern coast, has emerged as a strategic forward logistics hub for India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

'Sky's the limit', says Oman FM Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi on India ties

An American-Lebanese man was found guilty Friday of attempting to kill novelist Salman Rushdie when storming a stage and repeatedly plunging a knife into the "Satanic Verses" author.
Hadi Matar faces up to 25 years in prison and will be sentenced in April after being convicted of attempted murder and assault charges over the 2022 attack.
Matar's legal team had sought to prevent witnesses from characterizing Rushdie as a victim of persecution following Iran's 1989 fatwa calling for his murder over supposed blasphemy in "The Satanic Verses."
Rushdie had told jurors of Matar "stabbing and slashing" him during an event at an upscale cultural center in rural New York.
"It was a stab wound in my eye, intensely painful, after that I was screaming because of the pain," Rushdie said, adding he was left in a "lake of blood."
He said it "occurred to me I was dying" before he was helicoptered to a trauma hospital.
Jurors heard closing arguments from both prosecutors and defense lawyers before retiring briefly to consider their verdict Friday. They deliberated for less than two hours.
Matar was found guilty of stabbing Rushdie about 10 times with a six-inch blade that had been shown to witnesses and the court.
The defendant shouted pro-Palestinian slogans on several occasions during the trial.
<h2>Free speech vs blasphemy&nbsp;</h2>
Matar, from New Jersey, previously told media he had only read two pages of "The Satanic Verses" but believed the author had "attacked Islam."
After the novel was published in 1988, Rushdie became the center of a fierce tug-of-war between free speech advocates and those who insisted that insulting religion, particularly Islam, was unacceptable in any circumstance.
Books and bookshops were torched, his Japanese translator was murdered and his Norwegian publisher was shot several times.
Rushdie lived in seclusion in London for a decade after the 1989 fatwa, but for the past 20 years -- until the attack -- he lived relatively normally in New York.
Last year, he published a memoir called "Knife" in which he recounted the near-death experience.
The optical nerve of Rushdie's right eye was severed, and he told the court that "it was decided the eye would be stitched shut to allow it to moisturize. It was quite a painful operation -- which I don't recommend."
Asked to describe the intensity of the pain over the attack, he said it was "a 10" out of 10.
His Adam's apple was also lacerated, his liver and small bowel penetrated, and severe nerve damage to his arm left him paralyzed in one hand.
"The first thing I said on regaining the ability of speech was 'I can speak'," he said to stifled laughter from jurors.
British-American Rushdie, now 77, was rescued from Matar by bystanders.
Venue employee Jordan Steves had told the court how he launched himself "with my right shoulder with as much force as I could manage" to help others subdue the suspect.
He pointed to Matar, sitting just feet away in the ornate courtroom, when asked to identify the attacker.
Iran-backed Lebanese Shiite militant organization Hezbollah endorsed the fatwa on Rushdie, the FBI has said, and Matar faces a separate prosecution in US federal court on terrorism charges.
Iran has denied any link to the attacker and said only Rushdie was to blame for the incident.
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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.
</div>

WORLD | An American-Lebanese man was found guilty Friday of attempting to kill novelist Salman Rushdie when storming a stage and repeatedly plunging a knife into the "Satanic Verses" author.

An American-Lebanese man was found guilty Friday of attempting to kill novelist Salman Rushdie when storming a stage and repeatedly plunging a knife into the "Satanic Verses" author. Hadi Matar faces up to 25 years in prison and will be sentenced in April after being convicted of attempted murder and assault charges over the 2022 attack. Matar's legal team had sought to prevent witnesses from characterizing Rushdie as a victim of persecution following Iran's 1989 fatwa calling for his murder over supposed blasphemy in "The Satanic Verses." Rushdie had told jurors of Matar "stabbing and slashing" him during an event at an upscale cultural center in rural New York. "It was a stab wound in my eye, intensely painful, after that I was screaming because of the pain," Rushdie said, adding he was left in a "lake of blood." He said it "occurred to me I was dying" before he was helicoptered to a trauma hospital. Jurors heard closing arguments from both prosecutors and defense lawyers before retiring briefly to consider their verdict Friday. They deliberated for less than two hours. Matar was found guilty of stabbing Rushdie about 10 times with a six-inch blade that had been shown to witnesses and the court. The defendant shouted pro-Palestinian slogans on several occasions during the trial. Free speech vs blasphemy Matar, from New Jersey, previously told media he had only read two pages of "The Satanic Verses" but believed the author had "attacked Islam." After the novel was published in 1988, Rushdie became the center of a fierce tug-of-war between free speech advocates and those who insisted that insulting religion, particularly Islam, was unacceptable in any circumstance. Books and bookshops were torched, his Japanese translator was murdered and his Norwegian publisher was shot several times. Rushdie lived in seclusion in London for a decade after the 1989 fatwa, but for the past 20 years -- until the attack -- he lived relatively normally in New York. Last year, he published a memoir called "Knife" in which he recounted the near-death experience. The optical nerve of Rushdie's right eye was severed, and he told the court that "it was decided the eye would be stitched shut to allow it to moisturize. It was quite a painful operation -- which I don't recommend." Asked to describe the intensity of the pain over the attack, he said it was "a 10" out of 10. His Adam's apple was also lacerated, his liver and small bowel penetrated, and severe nerve damage to his arm left him paralyzed in one hand. "The first thing I said on regaining the ability of speech was 'I can speak'," he said to stifled laughter from jurors. British-American Rushdie, now 77, was rescued from Matar by bystanders. Venue employee Jordan Steves had told the court how he launched himself "with my right shoulder with as much force as I could manage" to help others subdue the suspect. He pointed to Matar, sitting just feet away in the ornate courtroom, when asked to identify the attacker. Iran-backed Lebanese Shiite militant organization Hezbollah endorsed the fatwa on Rushdie, the FBI has said, and Matar faces a separate prosecution in US federal court on terrorism charges. Iran has denied any link to the attacker and said only Rushdie was to blame for the incident. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lebanese-American Hadi Matar found guilty of Salman Rushdie's murder attempt

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour at Mauritius national day next month, Mauritius Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam has announced. Mauritius celebrates its national day on 12 March and it was on this day in 1968 that country gained its independence from the British. It was also on this day in 1992 that it became a republic.&nbsp;
 In a statement in the Parliament, PM Ramgoolam said, "In the context of the celebrations of the 57th anniversary of the Independence of our country, I have great pleasure to inform the House, that following my invitation, His Excellency, Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has kindly agreed to be the Guest of Honour for our National Day celebrations".&nbsp;
 Amid the thunderous applause, he highlighted that it is "indeed a singular privilege for our country, to host such a distinguished personality who is doing us this honour, inspite of his very tight schedule and inspite of his recent visits to Paris and the United States. He has agreed to be here as our special guest" and the upcoming visit is a "testimony of the close relations between our two nations".
 Both countries share strong ties, including India's assistance to development projects. India has provided over USD 1 billion in credit lines and USD 400 million in grants over the past decade, funding infrastructure like the Metro Express and community projects.&nbsp;
 Speaking to WION in Muscat, earlier this week, foreign minister of Mauritius Dhananjay Ramful said, "There are various projects where India has been helping us through grants or loans. You have the metro project that has been implemented over several years. We are also about to inaugurate the civil service college, which, again, was financed by the Indian government. So in various sectors be it health, education, culture. India has always been at the forefront to try and help Mauritius".&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-been-very-supportive-of-finalising-chagos-deal-says-mauritius-fm-dhananjay-ramful-8740484" rel="dofollow">India has been very supportive of finalising Chagos deal, says Mauritius FM Dhananjay Ramful</a>
<h2>India and Mauritius ties</h2>
 India was also the first responder amid the COVID-19 crisis and provided vaccines and essential items and support during the 2020 Wakashio oil spill. Economically, the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA), effective since April 2021, marks a milestone as India&rsquo;s first trade deal with an African nation.
 Diaspora has been a major connection between the 2 countries. There are 22,188 Indian nationals and 13,198 OCI card holders currently in Mauritius. A special carve-out for OCI Cards for Mauritian nationals with Indian lineage traceable up to the 7th generation was announced during the State Visit of President Droupadi Murmu in March 2024.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/WEBN_1602WI_SID_NEPAL_FM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/WEBN_1602WI_SID_NEPAL_FM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=293&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="India supportive in finalizing chagos deal, says Mauritius FM Dhananjay Ramful" id="PL_iframe_block-m7flgdcu-k90vklxb-nelx27vv"></iframe>
 A large percentage of the country's population is of Hindu faith. Mauritius&rsquo; Hindu community, predominantly comprising Bihari and Tamil people, maintains a strong connection to India. Last year when the consecration of Ayodhya Ram temple was undertaken in India, a 2-hour special leave for Hindu public servants was announced.
 The visit of PM Modi comes months after Mauritius and the UK announced a deal on the Chagos Islands last year, in which India played a key role. Under the deal, the UK would end its control over Chagos and hand over the sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius but would retain control over Diego Garcia&rsquo;s UK-US military base for 99 years. &nbsp;
 Foreign minister Ramful said, "I have to stress that India has been very supportive to Mauritius in trying to finalize this deal, and they are still willing and committed to us restoring our sovereignty on the Chagos archipelago."&nbsp;
 With the Trump administration coming into the White House, things could change on the deal, with the US say being taken on the issue. Asked if Trump could revisit the deal, FM said, "Now we also consider that it is important that the US, the new administration especially, has a new look at the deal since the US has an interest in the base on Diego Garcia, so we are waiting now for the US to look at the deal, and for the UK to eventually come to us and finalize the deal."

India has provided over USD 1 billion in credit lines and USD 400 million in grants over the past decade, funding infrastructure like the Metro Express and community projects.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour at Mauritius national day next month, Mauritius Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam has announced. Mauritius celebrates its national day on 12 March and it was on this day in 1968 that country gained its independence from the British. It was also on this day in 1992 that it became a republic. In a statement in the Parliament, PM Ramgoolam said, "In the context of the celebrations of the 57th anniversary of the Independence of our country, I have great pleasure to inform the House, that following my invitation, His Excellency, Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has kindly agreed to be the Guest of Honour for our National Day celebrations". Amid the thunderous applause, he highlighted that it is "indeed a singular privilege for our country, to host such a distinguished personality who is doing us this honour, inspite of his very tight schedule and inspite of his recent visits to Paris and the United States. He has agreed to be here as our special guest" and the upcoming visit is a "testimony of the close relations between our two nations". Both countries share strong ties, including India's assistance to development projects. India has provided over USD 1 billion in credit lines and USD 400 million in grants over the past decade, funding infrastructure like the Metro Express and community projects. Speaking to WION in Muscat, earlier this week, foreign minister of Mauritius Dhananjay Ramful said, "There are various projects where India has been helping us through grants or loans. You have the metro project that has been implemented over several years. We are also about to inaugurate the civil service college, which, again, was financed by the Indian government. So in various sectors be it health, education, culture. India has always been at the forefront to try and help Mauritius". Also Read: India has been very supportive of finalising Chagos deal, says Mauritius FM Dhananjay Ramful India and Mauritius ties India was also the first responder amid the COVID-19 crisis and provided vaccines and essential items and support during the 2020 Wakashio oil spill. Economically, the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA), effective since April 2021, marks a milestone as India’s first trade deal with an African nation. Diaspora has been a major connection between the 2 countries. There are 22,188 Indian nationals and 13,198 OCI card holders currently in Mauritius. A special carve-out for OCI Cards for Mauritian nationals with Indian lineage traceable up to the 7th generation was announced during the State Visit of President Droupadi Murmu in March 2024. A large percentage of the country's population is of Hindu faith. Mauritius’ Hindu community, predominantly comprising Bihari and Tamil people, maintains a strong connection to India. Last year when the consecration of Ayodhya Ram temple was undertaken in India, a 2-hour special leave for Hindu public servants was announced. The visit of PM Modi comes months after Mauritius and the UK announced a deal on the Chagos Islands last year, in which India played a key role. Under the deal, the UK would end its control over Chagos and hand over the sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius but would retain control over Diego Garcia’s UK-US military base for 99 years. Foreign minister Ramful said, "I have to stress that India has been very supportive to Mauritius in trying to finalize this deal, and they are still willing and committed to us restoring our sovereignty on the Chagos archipelago." With the Trump administration coming into the White House, things could change on the deal, with the US say being taken on the issue. Asked if Trump could revisit the deal, FM said, "Now we also consider that it is important that the US, the new administration especially, has a new look at the deal since the US has an interest in the base on Diego Garcia, so we are waiting now for the US to look at the deal, and for the UK to eventually come to us and finalize the deal."

PM Modi to be guest of honour at Mauritius National Day: PM Ramgoolam

US President Donald Trump has reassigned the acting head of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to the agency's apparent slower performance in arresting and deporting illegal migrants. The official, Caleb Vitello, has been facing pressure to increase the pace of enforcement to achieve the goal of the US president after other top officials were reassigned a few days earlier.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-dismisses-ukranian-president-zelensky-ukraine-peace-talks-russia-ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-8744952">&lsquo;He's not important&rsquo;: Trump dismisses Zelensky&rsquo;s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn&rsquo;t &lsquo;Russia&rsquo;s&nbsp;fault&rsquo;</a>
Tricia McLaughlin, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, confirmed the news to the Wall Street Journal saying Vitello "is no longer in an administrative role, but is instead overseeing all field and enforcement operations: finding, arresting, and deporting illegal aliens, which is a major priority of the President and Secretary Noem".&nbsp;
Trump is not happy that his deportation rate is slower than his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden. The Trump administration has deported 37,660 migrants in the very first month of his second term in the White House, Reuters reported. This may seem massive but is way lower than the monthly average of 57,000 in the final year of the Biden administration. &nbsp;
It was further reported that Vitello, who has 23 years of experience in deportation and was handpicked by Trump in December, will remain in the agency and oversee enforcement of arrests, targeting and field operations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-zelensky-will-sign-minerals-deal-soon-after-rejection-why-does-trump-want-ukraines-rare-earths-8744807">US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's&nbsp;'rare&nbsp;earths'?</a>
While announcing his pick, Trump had taken to his social media platform Truth Social to write, &ldquo;A member of the Senior Executive Service, with over 23 years of service to [Ice], Caleb currently serves as Assistant Director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs, where he oversees Agency-wide training, equipment, and policy to ensure Officer and Public Safety.&rdquo;
He further added, "Caleb&rsquo;s exceptional leadership, extensive experience, and commitment to [Ice]&rsquo;s mission make him an excellent choice to implement my efforts to enhance the safety and security of American communities who have been victimized by illegal alien crime."
A new acting director of the agency is yet to be announced by the White House, an official from the Trump administration told the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stick-to-catholic-church-trumps-border-czar-fires-back-at-pope-francis-over-immigration-criticism-8712179">'Stick to Catholic Church': Trump&rsquo;s border czar fires back at Pope Francis over immigration criticism</a>
<h2>ICE performing slow?&nbsp;</h2>
Despite a sweeping policy on immigration, several Trump administration officials have claimed that ICE arrests and deportations are not as high as expected by the administration.&nbsp;
Tom Homan, a former top ICE official who is serving as the administration's border czar, said earlier this month he was "not happy" with the agency's arrest levels.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-man-arrested-by-us-immigration-authorities-over-sexual-assault-charges-8703439">Indian man arrested by US immigration authorities over sexual assault charges</a>
Giving a contrary statement to the report on the number of deportations in the Trump administration, Homan said, "The number is a lot higher than under the Biden administration but we've got to do more."
Appearing on CNN, he called the arrests and deportations by the agency as "hard work".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | US President Donald Trump has reassigned the acting head of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to the agency's apparent slower performance in arresting and deporting immigrants.

US President Donald Trump has reassigned the acting head of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to the agency's apparent slower performance in arresting and deporting illegal migrants. The official, Caleb Vitello, has been facing pressure to increase the pace of enforcement to achieve the goal of the US president after other top officials were reassigned a few days earlier. Also read: ‘He's not important’: Trump dismisses Zelensky’s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn’t ‘Russia’s fault’ Tricia McLaughlin, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, confirmed the news to the Wall Street Journal saying Vitello "is no longer in an administrative role, but is instead overseeing all field and enforcement operations: finding, arresting, and deporting illegal aliens, which is a major priority of the President and Secretary Noem". Trump is not happy that his deportation rate is slower than his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden. The Trump administration has deported 37,660 migrants in the very first month of his second term in the White House, Reuters reported. This may seem massive but is way lower than the monthly average of 57,000 in the final year of the Biden administration. It was further reported that Vitello, who has 23 years of experience in deportation and was handpicked by Trump in December, will remain in the agency and oversee enforcement of arrests, targeting and field operations. Also read: US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'? While announcing his pick, Trump had taken to his social media platform Truth Social to write, “A member of the Senior Executive Service, with over 23 years of service to [Ice], Caleb currently serves as Assistant Director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs, where he oversees Agency-wide training, equipment, and policy to ensure Officer and Public Safety.” He further added, "Caleb’s exceptional leadership, extensive experience, and commitment to [Ice]’s mission make him an excellent choice to implement my efforts to enhance the safety and security of American communities who have been victimized by illegal alien crime." A new acting director of the agency is yet to be announced by the White House, an official from the Trump administration told the Wall Street Journal. Also read: 'Stick to Catholic Church': Trump’s border czar fires back at Pope Francis over immigration criticism ICE performing slow? Despite a sweeping policy on immigration, several Trump administration officials have claimed that ICE arrests and deportations are not as high as expected by the administration. Tom Homan, a former top ICE official who is serving as the administration's border czar, said earlier this month he was "not happy" with the agency's arrest levels. Also read: Indian man arrested by US immigration authorities over sexual assault charges Giving a contrary statement to the report on the number of deportations in the Trump administration, Homan said, "The number is a lot higher than under the Biden administration but we've got to do more." Appearing on CNN, he called the arrests and deportations by the agency as "hard work". (With inputs from agencies)

You're reassigned: Trump moves ICE chief over slower deportations than predecessor Biden

Hamas handed over a body it claimed belonged to Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas late at&nbsp;night on Friday (Feb 21) after a misidentification nearly disrupted the fragile Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Red Cross says it has given the remains to Israel and medical authorities are now conducting forensic tests to confirm the identity.
As per Israel's army radio report, the body was identified overnight by forensic specialists as Shiri Bibas.
The Palestinian militant group had agreed to hand over the bodies of Shiri Bibas, her two sons, Kfir and Ariel, and another hostage, Oded Lifshitz, under the ongoing ceasefire deal. While the identity of the bodies of the Bibas boys and Lifshitz was confirmed, the fourth body was found to be an unidentified Gazan woman, not Shiri Bibas.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evil-violation-of-truce-amid-outrage-hamas-says-shiri-bibass-remains-mixed-in-rubble-of-israeli-strike-8743938" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Evil violation&nbsp;of&nbsp;truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble'&nbsp;of Israeli strike</a>
<h2>Hamas admits &lsquo;mistake&rsquo; in handover</h2>
Hamas official Basem Naim accepted the error, blaming the ongoing war for making proper identification difficult.
"Unfortunate mistakes can happen, especially with Israeli bombing mixing the bodies of hostages and Palestinians, thousands of whom remain buried in the rubble," he said. He added that Hamas had no interest in withholding bodies or violating agreements.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-murdering-months-old-kfir-bibas-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-says-body-of-their-mother-not-returned-as-promised-8741958" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing</a>
<h2>Netanyahu condemns Hamas for &lsquo;cruel violation&rsquo;</h2>
The failure to hand over the correct body and the public display of four coffins by Hamas on Thursday sparked a backlash in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation.
&ldquo;We will act with determination to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement,&rdquo; he said in a video statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-cult-netanyahu-vows-vengeance-against-hamas-after-it-parades-dead-bodies-of-israeli-hostages-8741079">&lsquo;Death cult&rsquo;: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it &lsquo;parades dead bodies&rsquo; of Israeli hostages</a>
Netanyahu also denounced the group for its actions saying, &ldquo;Who kidnaps a little boy and a baby and murders them? Monsters. That&rsquo;s who. I vow that I will not rest until the savages who executed our hostages are brought to justice.&rdquo;
<h2>Dispute over how Bibas family died</h2>
Hamas has claimed since November 2023 that Shiri Bibas and her two children were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Hamas-run Gaza government media director Ismail Al-Thawabta placed full blame on Netanyahu. However, the Israeli military disputes this, saying intelligence and forensic analysis suggest the Bibas children were deliberately killed by their captors.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-hands-over-bodies-of-four-israeli-hostages-including-mother-and-young-sons-8739430">'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages</a>
Despite tensions over the botched body transfer, Hamas is set to release six living hostages on Saturday in exchange for 602 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire are expected to begin in the coming days.
&ldquo;Hamas must return the hostages as agreed in the ceasefire, the living and the deceased. They have to bring Shiri back, and they have to release the six living hostages expected tomorrow,&rdquo; Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said on X. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas claims that Shiri Bibas and her two children were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The Israeli military disputes this, saying intelligence and forensic analysis suggest the Bibas children were deliberately killed by their captors. Middle East

Hamas handed over a body it claimed belonged to Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas late at night on Friday (Feb 21) after a misidentification nearly disrupted the fragile Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Red Cross says it has given the remains to Israel and medical authorities are now conducting forensic tests to confirm the identity. As per Israel's army radio report, the body was identified overnight by forensic specialists as Shiri Bibas. The Palestinian militant group had agreed to hand over the bodies of Shiri Bibas, her two sons, Kfir and Ariel, and another hostage, Oded Lifshitz, under the ongoing ceasefire deal. While the identity of the bodies of the Bibas boys and Lifshitz was confirmed, the fourth body was found to be an unidentified Gazan woman, not Shiri Bibas. Also read: 'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike Hamas admits ‘mistake’ in handover Hamas official Basem Naim accepted the error, blaming the ongoing war for making proper identification difficult. "Unfortunate mistakes can happen, especially with Israeli bombing mixing the bodies of hostages and Palestinians, thousands of whom remain buried in the rubble," he said. He added that Hamas had no interest in withholding bodies or violating agreements. Also read: Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing Netanyahu condemns Hamas for ‘cruel violation’ The failure to hand over the correct body and the public display of four coffins by Hamas on Thursday sparked a backlash in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation. “We will act with determination to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement,” he said in a video statement. Also read: ‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages Netanyahu also denounced the group for its actions saying, “Who kidnaps a little boy and a baby and murders them? Monsters. That’s who. I vow that I will not rest until the savages who executed our hostages are brought to justice.” Dispute over how Bibas family died Hamas has claimed since November 2023 that Shiri Bibas and her two children were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Hamas-run Gaza government media director Ismail Al-Thawabta placed full blame on Netanyahu. However, the Israeli military disputes this, saying intelligence and forensic analysis suggest the Bibas children were deliberately killed by their captors. Also read: 'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages Despite tensions over the botched body transfer, Hamas is set to release six living hostages on Saturday in exchange for 602 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire are expected to begin in the coming days. “Hamas must return the hostages as agreed in the ceasefire, the living and the deceased. They have to bring Shiri back, and they have to release the six living hostages expected tomorrow,” Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani said on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel confirms receiving Shiri Bibas’ remains in overnight handover by Hamas

Swedish authorities said Friday they were investigating suspected damage to an underwater cable in the Baltic Sea, following a string of incidents experts believe are acts of sabotage orchestrated by Russia.
Finnish operator Cinia said it had recorded "some disturbance" on its C-Lion 1 communications cable linking Finland and Germany.
"However, the disturbance does not affect the functionality of telecommunications connections running in the cable and the data traffic continues flowing normally," it said in a statement, adding that the cause was "still under investigation".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-dismisses-ukranian-president-zelensky-ukraine-peace-talks-russia-ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-8744952">&lsquo;He's not important&rsquo;: Trump dismisses Zelensky&rsquo;s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn&rsquo;t &lsquo;Russia&rsquo;s&nbsp;fault&rsquo;</a>
The same cable had previously been cut in November last year with suspicions falling on a Chinese ship.
A string of incidents involving damage to cables and other infrastructure in the Baltic Sea have occurred in recent months, amid soaring tensions between the West and Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine.
Swedish police spokesman Mathias Rutegard told AFP an investigation into suspected "sabotage" had been opened following the latest incident, which occurred east of the Swedish island of Gotland.
"We have opened a preliminary investigation into a suspected broken cable in the Baltic Sea and within the Swedish economic zone," Rutegard said.
Police later said in a statement that they had "no suspect" at this stage.
<h2><hl2>'Serious security situation'</hl2></h2>
A spokeswoman for the Swedish coast guard, Karin Cars, told AFP they had sent a ship to the site east of Sweden's island of Gotland and were "assisting with the crime scene investigation".
Cars said she did not have information about when the damage occurred, but said the coast guard had started heading towards the site the night before.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-year-another-pandemic-china-discovers-new-bat-coronavirus-that-poses-risks-to-humans-8744960">Another year, another pandemic? China discovers new bat coronavirus that poses risks to humans</a>
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said in a post to X that the government was monitoring the situation.
"We take all reports of possible damage to infrastructure in the Baltic Sea very seriously. As I have said before, they must be seen in the context of the serious security situation," Kristersson said.
The European Commission said Friday it would step up security requirements for underwater cables and prioritise financing for the deployment of new and smart cables.
It also said the EU would increase the capacity for the swift repair of damaged cables and would enforce sanctions against "hostile actors" and the "shadow fleet".
Security analysts say Russia is operating a "shadow fleet" of hundreds of vessels, aiming to dodge Western sanctions -- some of which are accused of damaging cables.
<h2><hl2>Mounting tensions</hl2></h2>
Western officials have accused Russian vessels of sabotaging undersea communications and power cables in several high-profile incidents in the Baltic Sea in recent months.
European leaders and experts suspect acts of "hybrid warfare" against Western countries supporting Ukraine, and are calling for increased maritime security.
Tensions have mounted around the Baltic Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
A series of underwater blasts ruptured the Nord Stream pipelines that carried Russian gas to Europe in September 2022, the cause of which has yet to be determined.
In October 2023, an undersea gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was shut down after it was damaged by the anchor of a Chinese cargo ship.
Two telecom cables, including the C-Lion 1, were severed in Swedish waters on November 17-18 last year.
And weeks later, on December 25, the Estlink 2 electricity cable and four telecom cables linking Finland and Estonia were damaged.
In January, NATO announced the launch of a Baltic Sea patrol mission, Baltic Sentry, to secure critical underwater infrastructure.
Earlier this week, UN experts told AFP that fishing trawlers were responsible for far more damage to underwater cables than nefarious activities.
According to the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), there are an average of 150 to 200 outages per year worldwide, or around three incidents a week.
Tomas Lamanauskas, the deputy head of the United Nations' International Telecommunications Union (ITU), told AFP that fishing and anchoring is responsible for 80 percent of all recorded damage.
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: Finnish operator Cinia said it had recorded "some disturbance" on its C-Lion 1 communications cable linking Finland and Germany.

Swedish authorities said Friday they were investigating suspected damage to an underwater cable in the Baltic Sea, following a string of incidents experts believe are acts of sabotage orchestrated by Russia. Finnish operator Cinia said it had recorded "some disturbance" on its C-Lion 1 communications cable linking Finland and Germany. "However, the disturbance does not affect the functionality of telecommunications connections running in the cable and the data traffic continues flowing normally," it said in a statement, adding that the cause was "still under investigation". Also read: ‘He's not important’: Trump dismisses Zelensky’s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn’t ‘Russia’s fault’ The same cable had previously been cut in November last year with suspicions falling on a Chinese ship. A string of incidents involving damage to cables and other infrastructure in the Baltic Sea have occurred in recent months, amid soaring tensions between the West and Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine. Swedish police spokesman Mathias Rutegard told AFP an investigation into suspected "sabotage" had been opened following the latest incident, which occurred east of the Swedish island of Gotland. "We have opened a preliminary investigation into a suspected broken cable in the Baltic Sea and within the Swedish economic zone," Rutegard said. Police later said in a statement that they had "no suspect" at this stage. 'Serious security situation' A spokeswoman for the Swedish coast guard, Karin Cars, told AFP they had sent a ship to the site east of Sweden's island of Gotland and were "assisting with the crime scene investigation". Cars said she did not have information about when the damage occurred, but said the coast guard had started heading towards the site the night before. Also read: Another year, another pandemic? China discovers new bat coronavirus that poses risks to humans Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said in a post to X that the government was monitoring the situation. "We take all reports of possible damage to infrastructure in the Baltic Sea very seriously. As I have said before, they must be seen in the context of the serious security situation," Kristersson said. The European Commission said Friday it would step up security requirements for underwater cables and prioritise financing for the deployment of new and smart cables. It also said the EU would increase the capacity for the swift repair of damaged cables and would enforce sanctions against "hostile actors" and the "shadow fleet". Security analysts say Russia is operating a "shadow fleet" of hundreds of vessels, aiming to dodge Western sanctions -- some of which are accused of damaging cables. Mounting tensions Western officials have accused Russian vessels of sabotaging undersea communications and power cables in several high-profile incidents in the Baltic Sea in recent months. European leaders and experts suspect acts of "hybrid warfare" against Western countries supporting Ukraine, and are calling for increased maritime security. Tensions have mounted around the Baltic Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A series of underwater blasts ruptured the Nord Stream pipelines that carried Russian gas to Europe in September 2022, the cause of which has yet to be determined. In October 2023, an undersea gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was shut down after it was damaged by the anchor of a Chinese cargo ship. Two telecom cables, including the C-Lion 1, were severed in Swedish waters on November 17-18 last year. And weeks later, on December 25, the Estlink 2 electricity cable and four telecom cables linking Finland and Estonia were damaged. In January, NATO announced the launch of a Baltic Sea patrol mission, Baltic Sentry, to secure critical underwater infrastructure. Earlier this week, UN experts told AFP that fishing trawlers were responsible for far more damage to underwater cables than nefarious activities. According to the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), there are an average of 150 to 200 outages per year worldwide, or around three incidents a week. Tomas Lamanauskas, the deputy head of the United Nations' International Telecommunications Union (ITU), told AFP that fishing and anchoring is responsible for 80 percent of all recorded damage. 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.

Sweden probes Baltic Sea cable sabotage as fears of Russian ‘hybrid warfare’ grow

US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 21) that he does not see Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a key player in negotiations to end Russia-Ukraine war.
"I don't think he's very important to be in meetings," Trump said in an interview with Fox News.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-zelensky-will-sign-minerals-deal-soon-after-rejection-why-does-trump-want-ukraines-rare-earths-8744807" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's&nbsp;'rare&nbsp;earths'?</a>
"He's been there for three years. He makes it very hard to make deals," he added.
Kyiv and European leaders have voiced frustration after Trump-backed talks between US and Russian officials took place in Saudi Arabia earlier this week without Ukraine&rsquo;s involvement.
"He complains that he's not in a meeting that we're having with Saudi Arabia trying to intermediate peace. He's been in a meeting for three years and nothing got done," Trump said.
<h2>Trump: Russia &lsquo;attacked,&rsquo; but war could have been avoided</h2>
During the interview, Trump admitted that Russia "attacked" Ukraine but insisted that the war could have been prevented.
"Yes, Russia attacked, but there was no reason for him [Vladimir Putin] to attack," Trump said. "You could have talked him out of it. That war should have never happened," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-zelensky-will-sign-minerals-deal-soon-after-rejection-why-does-trump-want-ukraines-rare-earths-8744807" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's&nbsp;'rare&nbsp;earths'?</a>
Trump also appeared to shift blame toward Biden and Zelensky. "Every time I say, 'It's not Russia's fault,' but [Joe] Biden said the wrong things, [Volodymyr] Zelensky said the wrong things, and they got attacked, which was a bad thing to do. But Russia could have been talked out of it so easily," he said.
The Fox News host pressed Trump five times on who was ultimately responsible for the war, but Trump kept deflecting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
<h2>Rare earth deal and US-Ukraine tensions</h2>
The interview also touched on Trump&rsquo;s frustration with Zelensky over a failed rare earth mineral deal. "I&rsquo;ve been watching him negotiate with no cards. He has no cards, and you get sick of it," Trump said.
He claimed the US had reached a rare earth minerals agreement with Ukraine, but negotiations fell apart. "We made a deal with rare earth and [the] Secretary of Treasury &mdash; very good guy, actually went there, and they couldn't even come close to getting a deal done," Trump said.
He added that he regretted sending his official to Ukraine. "Frankly, I wish he didn't go there, waste all of his time like that. It was just a wasted trip. A dangerous trip too," Trump said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-blasts-ukrainian-president-zelensky-russia-ukraine-war-putin-8737582" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Dictator Without Elections&rsquo;: Trump blasts Zelensky after &lsquo;disinformation&rsquo; dig, warns Ukraine could collapse</a>&nbsp;
<h2>Rising tensions between Trump and Zelensky</h2>
Ties between Washington and Kyiv have worsened following Trump&rsquo;s comments earlier this week, where he called Zelensky a "dictator without elections" and warned he "better move fast" or risk losing Ukraine.
Zelensky earlier accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. The Ukrainian leader also pushed back against Trump&rsquo;s claim that Ukraine relies mostly on US support. Zelensky also criticised the recent US-Russia talks, arguing that Washington was helping Putin "come out of isolation."
&ldquo;This isn&rsquo;t positive for Ukraine. What it does is put the focus back on Russia, and they are happy about that,&rdquo; he said.

World: During the interview, Trump admitted that Russia "attacked" Ukraine but insisted that the Russia-Ukraine war could have been prevented.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 21) that he does not see Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a key player in negotiations to end Russia-Ukraine war. "I don't think he's very important to be in meetings," Trump said in an interview with Fox News. Also read: US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'? "He's been there for three years. He makes it very hard to make deals," he added. Kyiv and European leaders have voiced frustration after Trump-backed talks between US and Russian officials took place in Saudi Arabia earlier this week without Ukraine’s involvement. "He complains that he's not in a meeting that we're having with Saudi Arabia trying to intermediate peace. He's been in a meeting for three years and nothing got done," Trump said. Trump: Russia ‘attacked,’ but war could have been avoided During the interview, Trump admitted that Russia "attacked" Ukraine but insisted that the war could have been prevented. "Yes, Russia attacked, but there was no reason for him [Vladimir Putin] to attack," Trump said. "You could have talked him out of it. That war should have never happened," he added. Also read: US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'? Trump also appeared to shift blame toward Biden and Zelensky. "Every time I say, 'It's not Russia's fault,' but [Joe] Biden said the wrong things, [Volodymyr] Zelensky said the wrong things, and they got attacked, which was a bad thing to do. But Russia could have been talked out of it so easily," he said. The Fox News host pressed Trump five times on who was ultimately responsible for the war, but Trump kept deflecting. Also read: Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? Rare earth deal and US-Ukraine tensions The interview also touched on Trump’s frustration with Zelensky over a failed rare earth mineral deal. "I’ve been watching him negotiate with no cards. He has no cards, and you get sick of it," Trump said. He claimed the US had reached a rare earth minerals agreement with Ukraine, but negotiations fell apart. "We made a deal with rare earth and [the] Secretary of Treasury — very good guy, actually went there, and they couldn't even come close to getting a deal done," Trump said. He added that he regretted sending his official to Ukraine. "Frankly, I wish he didn't go there, waste all of his time like that. It was just a wasted trip. A dangerous trip too," Trump said. Also read: ‘Dictator Without Elections’: Trump blasts Zelensky after ‘disinformation’ dig, warns Ukraine could collapse Rising tensions between Trump and Zelensky Ties between Washington and Kyiv have worsened following Trump’s comments earlier this week, where he called Zelensky a "dictator without elections" and warned he "better move fast" or risk losing Ukraine. Zelensky earlier accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. The Ukrainian leader also pushed back against Trump’s claim that Ukraine relies mostly on US support. Zelensky also criticised the recent US-Russia talks, arguing that Washington was helping Putin "come out of isolation." “This isn’t positive for Ukraine. What it does is put the focus back on Russia, and they are happy about that,” he said.

‘He's not important’: Trump dismisses Zelensky’s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn’t ‘Russia’s fault’

Chinese scientists have found a new bat coronavirus that carries the risk of animal-to-human transmission and is similar to the one that caused the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;
The virus named HKU5-CoV-2, was found to use the same human receptor as SARA-CoV-2, which was responsible for COVID-19, South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;
Chinese research team led by virologist Shi Zhengli discovered HKU5-CoV-2. Zhengli is also known as "Batwoman" for her work on coronaviruses, especially at the Wuhan Institute, the centre of the theory suggesting COVID-19 came from a lab leak, which was denied by Zhengli.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-pandemic-to-inflation-defining-challenges-of-bidens-presidency-8636199">From pandemic to inflation: Challenges faced by Joe Biden in his presidency</a>
This comes after a surge in cases of the flu-like human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China raised fears of another Covid-style pandemic.
At that time, images of hospitals overcrowded with masked patients were being circulated widely on social media. However, health experts clarified, saying that HMPV is not like COVID, and has been around for many years.&nbsp;
They added that China and other countries are just experiencing the seasonal increase in HMPV, which is usually seen in winter.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/how-to-stay-safe-from-hmpv-wion-asks-experts-as-virus-spreads-across-globe-8620790">How to stay safe from HMPV? WION asks experts as virus spreads across globe</a>
<h2>What is HKU5-CoV-2?</h2>
According to some studies, it originated in bats and jumped to humans through an intermediate animal host. However, there is still no consensus on the origin of the virus.&nbsp;
Shi Zhengli denied that the institute was to blame for the outbreak.&nbsp;
The latest discovery of this virus is a new lineage of the HKU5 coronavirus first identified in the Japanese pipistrelle bat in Hong Kong.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-experts-calls-on-china-to-provide-key-information-on-hmpv-outbreak-as-cases-double-in-britain-8599149">UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain</a>
It comes from the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the virus that causes Middle East respiratory syndrome (Mers).
Moreover, this research involved scientists from the Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Academy of Sciences, Wuhan University, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Their findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Cell on Tuesday.
According to the report, HKU5-CoV-2 can bind to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor, the same receptor used by SARS-CoV-2 to infect human cells.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-there-no-hmpv-vaccine-despite-the-viruss-discovery-24-years-ago-8598516">Why is there no HMPV vaccine despite the virus's discovery 24 years ago?</a>
"We report the discovery and isolation of a distinct lineage (lineage 2) of HKU5-CoV, which can utilise not only bat ACE2 but also human ACE2 and various mammalian ACE2 orthologs," the scientists said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The virus named HKU5-CoV-2, was found to use the same human receptor as SARA-CoV-2, which was responsible for COVID-19, South China Morning Post reported.

Chinese scientists have found a new bat coronavirus that carries the risk of animal-to-human transmission and is similar to the one that caused the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus named HKU5-CoV-2, was found to use the same human receptor as SARA-CoV-2, which was responsible for COVID-19, South China Morning Post reported. Chinese research team led by virologist Shi Zhengli discovered HKU5-CoV-2. Zhengli is also known as "Batwoman" for her work on coronaviruses, especially at the Wuhan Institute, the centre of the theory suggesting COVID-19 came from a lab leak, which was denied by Zhengli. Also read: From pandemic to inflation: Challenges faced by Joe Biden in his presidency This comes after a surge in cases of the flu-like human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China raised fears of another Covid-style pandemic. At that time, images of hospitals overcrowded with masked patients were being circulated widely on social media. However, health experts clarified, saying that HMPV is not like COVID, and has been around for many years. They added that China and other countries are just experiencing the seasonal increase in HMPV, which is usually seen in winter. Also read: How to stay safe from HMPV? WION asks experts as virus spreads across globe What is HKU5-CoV-2? According to some studies, it originated in bats and jumped to humans through an intermediate animal host. However, there is still no consensus on the origin of the virus. Shi Zhengli denied that the institute was to blame for the outbreak. The latest discovery of this virus is a new lineage of the HKU5 coronavirus first identified in the Japanese pipistrelle bat in Hong Kong. Also read: UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain It comes from the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the virus that causes Middle East respiratory syndrome (Mers). Moreover, this research involved scientists from the Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Academy of Sciences, Wuhan University, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Their findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Cell on Tuesday. According to the report, HKU5-CoV-2 can bind to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor, the same receptor used by SARS-CoV-2 to infect human cells. Also read: Why is there no HMPV vaccine despite the virus's discovery 24 years ago? "We report the discovery and isolation of a distinct lineage (lineage 2) of HKU5-CoV, which can utilise not only bat ACE2 but also human ACE2 and various mammalian ACE2 orthologs," the scientists said. (With inputs from agencies)

Another year, another pandemic? China discovers new bat coronavirus that poses risks to humans

The White House said on Friday (Feb 21) that Ukraine will soon sign an agreement granting the United States access to its mineral resources, a deal President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously rejected due to the lack of security guarantees.
&ldquo;Look, here&rsquo;s the bottom line, President Zelensky is going to sign that deal, and you will see that in the very short term, and that is good for Ukraine,&rdquo; Trump&rsquo;s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz told attendees at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) near Washington.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraines-zelensky-really-a-dictator-without-elections-trumps-claim-vs-the-reality-of-wartime-voting-8744345" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump&rsquo;s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting</a>
He added, &ldquo;By the end of this all, we are going to have the Nobel Peace Prize sitting next to the name of Donald J. Trump.&rdquo;
<h2>Ukraine previously rejected US demands</h2>
Zelensky on Wednesday dismissed the US calls to share its rare earth minerals, a deal Trump argued was fair compensation for the aid provided to Ukraine during its war with Russia. 
Earlier on Thursday, Waltz had suggested that US access to Ukraine&rsquo;s mineral resources could be exchanged for continued aid or even as repayment for past support.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
&ldquo;We presented the Ukrainians with an incredible and historic opportunity,&rdquo; Waltz said, calling it a &ldquo;sustainable&rdquo; plan and &ldquo;the best&rdquo; security guarantee Ukraine could receive. However, Zelensky refused, declaring, &ldquo;I can't sell our state.&rdquo;
<h2>Zelensky signals shift in stance</h2>
Despite initially rejecting the proposal, Zelensky later signalled a willingness to negotiate. Following his meeting with US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg in Kyiv, the Ukrainian leader announced he was open to an "investment and security agreement" with the US to help end the war.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-announcement-on-war-anniversary-russia-to-declare-victory-over-ukraine-on-feb-24-claims-kyiv-intel-8744703" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Big announcement on war anniversary': Russia to declare 'victory' over Ukraine on Feb 24, claims Kyiv intel</a>
<h2>What are rare earth minerals?</h2>
Rare earth minerals refer to a group of 17 metals that are essential for producing magnets used in electric vehicles, smartphones, and other electronics. These elements have no known substitutes, making them highly valuable for global industries.
According to the US Geological Survey, 50 minerals are classified as critical to the American economy and national defence. This list includes rare earth elements, nickel, and lithium.
Ukraine has significant deposits of uranium, lithium, and titanium, though it does not rank among the top five countries in terms of total reserves. The US also possesses its own untapped reserves of these minerals.
<h2>Why is Trump interested in Ukraine&rsquo;s rare earth deposits?</h2>
The US currently has only one operational rare earth mine and limited processing capabilities. Although American companies are working to expand domestic production, China remains the world's dominant supplier of rare earth elements and other key minerals.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-wants-ukraine-to-repay-us-aid-with-rare-earths-what-are-rare-earth-elements-8689845" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them?</a>
Trump&rsquo;s interest in Ukraine&rsquo;s mineral wealth is not new. Zelensky has previously promoted Ukraine&rsquo;s vast resources as a way to strengthen ties with the Trump administration. In recent months, the Ukrainian leader has argued that supporting Ukraine is also in America&rsquo;s economic interest, as access to these minerals could benefit US industries.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “Look, here’s the bottom line, President Zelensky is going to sign that deal, and you will see that in the very short term, and that is good for Ukraine,” Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz said.

The White House said on Friday (Feb 21) that Ukraine will soon sign an agreement granting the United States access to its mineral resources, a deal President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously rejected due to the lack of security guarantees. “Look, here’s the bottom line, President Zelensky is going to sign that deal, and you will see that in the very short term, and that is good for Ukraine,” Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz told attendees at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) near Washington. Also read: Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting He added, “By the end of this all, we are going to have the Nobel Peace Prize sitting next to the name of Donald J. Trump.” Ukraine previously rejected US demands Zelensky on Wednesday dismissed the US calls to share its rare earth minerals, a deal Trump argued was fair compensation for the aid provided to Ukraine during its war with Russia. Earlier on Thursday, Waltz had suggested that US access to Ukraine’s mineral resources could be exchanged for continued aid or even as repayment for past support. Also read: Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? “We presented the Ukrainians with an incredible and historic opportunity,” Waltz said, calling it a “sustainable” plan and “the best” security guarantee Ukraine could receive. However, Zelensky refused, declaring, “I can't sell our state.” Zelensky signals shift in stance Despite initially rejecting the proposal, Zelensky later signalled a willingness to negotiate. Following his meeting with US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg in Kyiv, the Ukrainian leader announced he was open to an "investment and security agreement" with the US to help end the war. Also read: 'Big announcement on war anniversary': Russia to declare 'victory' over Ukraine on Feb 24, claims Kyiv intel What are rare earth minerals? Rare earth minerals refer to a group of 17 metals that are essential for producing magnets used in electric vehicles, smartphones, and other electronics. These elements have no known substitutes, making them highly valuable for global industries. According to the US Geological Survey, 50 minerals are classified as critical to the American economy and national defence. This list includes rare earth elements, nickel, and lithium. Ukraine has significant deposits of uranium, lithium, and titanium, though it does not rank among the top five countries in terms of total reserves. The US also possesses its own untapped reserves of these minerals. Why is Trump interested in Ukraine’s rare earth deposits? The US currently has only one operational rare earth mine and limited processing capabilities. Although American companies are working to expand domestic production, China remains the world's dominant supplier of rare earth elements and other key minerals. Also read: Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them? Trump’s interest in Ukraine’s mineral wealth is not new. Zelensky has previously promoted Ukraine’s vast resources as a way to strengthen ties with the Trump administration. In recent months, the Ukrainian leader has argued that supporting Ukraine is also in America’s economic interest, as access to these minerals could benefit US industries. (With inputs from agencies)

US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'?

On the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Russia wants to declare "victory" in its war against Ukraine and NATO, Ukrainian intelligence claimed on Friday.&nbsp;
Russian propagandists have been instructed to promote "victorious" narratives on the symbolic date of Feb 24 to incite disbelief in Ukrainian society, destabilise the country, and discredit Kyiv partners as "enemies peace", Kyiv Independent reported, citing Ukrainian Military Intelligence, known as HUR.
The report comes amid the landmark shift in US foreign policy, as it appears to bond more with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and maintain distance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
HUR, in a Telegram post, claimed that the key narratives of the information campaign include slogans like "The West betrayed Ukraine,&rdquo; &ldquo;Neither Moscow nor Washington cares about the opinion of Europeans and Ukrainians,&rdquo; or that &ldquo;the Ukrainian government is illegitimate&rdquo;.&nbsp;
It has been a narrative that has been pushed in recent days not only by the Kremlin but also by the White House.&nbsp;
&ldquo;In addition, Russia is preparing to declare an alleged 'victory' in the war against Ukraine by the 'round date' of Feb. 24, 2025, the third anniversary of the beginning of the full-scale war,&rdquo; the HUR claimed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraines-zelensky-really-a-dictator-without-elections-trumps-claim-vs-the-reality-of-wartime-voting-8744345">Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump&rsquo;s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting</a>
<h2>'Russian victory over NATO'</h2>
It further read that Russia's plans may also include a "Russian victory over NATO", as Moscow propaganda has long portrayed the war against Ukraine as a war with the alliance.&nbsp;
Russia's further goal is to discredit Ukraine's European partners, who are aiming to shore up Kyiv's position amid ongoing Russian-American talks with a &euro;6 billion military aid package.&nbsp;
"For such European governments, the Kremlin is slapping on the 'enemies of peace' label,&rdquo; HUR warned.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-trump-could-meet-before-end-of-february-says-kremlin-report-8736169">Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report</a>
February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; has since become Europe&rsquo;s largest conflict since World War II.&nbsp;
The war has claimed tens of thousands of lives on both sides, displaced millions of Ukrainians, and pushed Russia into isolation from the West.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-strikes-chernobyl-reactor-shield-claims-zelensky-8720532">WATCH | Russian drone strikes Chernobyl reactor shield, claims Zelensky; Kremlin denies</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine and claimed tens of thousands of lives on both sides.

On the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Russia wants to declare "victory" in its war against Ukraine and NATO, Ukrainian intelligence claimed on Friday. Russian propagandists have been instructed to promote "victorious" narratives on the symbolic date of Feb 24 to incite disbelief in Ukrainian society, destabilise the country, and discredit Kyiv partners as "enemies peace", Kyiv Independent reported, citing Ukrainian Military Intelligence, known as HUR. The report comes amid the landmark shift in US foreign policy, as it appears to bond more with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and maintain distance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Also read: Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? HUR, in a Telegram post, claimed that the key narratives of the information campaign include slogans like "The West betrayed Ukraine,” “Neither Moscow nor Washington cares about the opinion of Europeans and Ukrainians,” or that “the Ukrainian government is illegitimate”. It has been a narrative that has been pushed in recent days not only by the Kremlin but also by the White House. “In addition, Russia is preparing to declare an alleged 'victory' in the war against Ukraine by the 'round date' of Feb. 24, 2025, the third anniversary of the beginning of the full-scale war,” the HUR claimed. Also read: Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting 'Russian victory over NATO' It further read that Russia's plans may also include a "Russian victory over NATO", as Moscow propaganda has long portrayed the war against Ukraine as a war with the alliance. Russia's further goal is to discredit Ukraine's European partners, who are aiming to shore up Kyiv's position amid ongoing Russian-American talks with a €6 billion military aid package. "For such European governments, the Kremlin is slapping on the 'enemies of peace' label,” HUR warned. Also read: Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report February 24 marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What Russian President Vladimir Putin initially called a “special military operation” has since become Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. The war has claimed tens of thousands of lives on both sides, displaced millions of Ukrainians, and pushed Russia into isolation from the West. Also read: WATCH | Russian drone strikes Chernobyl reactor shield, claims Zelensky; Kremlin denies (With inputs from agencies)

'Big announcement on war anniversary': Russia to declare 'victory' over Ukraine on Feb 24, claims Kyiv intel

US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive" as the two met on Thursday in Kyiv.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place.&nbsp;
<h2>Click on the headlines for more</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extensive-and-productive-us-envoy-kellogg-praises-talks-with-courageous-leader-zelensky-8744537" rel="dofollow">'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/EdooFRhDHwJhfci6YAkw.png" alt=" Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) greets US envoy Keith Kellogg at his offices in Kyiv on February 20, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Photograph: (AFP) ">
US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive".&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evil-violation-of-truce-amid-outrage-hamas-says-shiri-bibass-remains-mixed-in-rubble-of-israeli-strike-8743938" rel="dofollow">'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/aIWn4vrk5NIiqJrGbzq8.png" alt=" Posters of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Kfir and Ariel are plastered outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, now informally called the &quot;Hostages Square&quot;, on February 19, 2025 Photograph: (AFP) ">
After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble alomg with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-concerning-indian-foreign-ministry-reacts-to-trumps-21m-funding-for-voter-turnout-in-india-claim-8743564" rel="dofollow">'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/VkwdGXZOop8Ei4yijeZX.png" alt=" PM Modi meets US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraines-zelensky-really-a-dictator-without-elections-trumps-claim-vs-the-reality-of-wartime-voting-8744345" rel="dofollow">Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump&rsquo;s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/spE7PfhNAc2afkZRzGIy.png" alt=" Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. Photograph: (Reuters, Wion Web Team) ">
US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a &ldquo;modestly successful comedian&rdquo; and a &ldquo;dictator without elections.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rednote-downloads-sees-91-per-cent-drop-as-tiktok-returns-to-us-stores-8744228" rel="dofollow">Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/21/4IkwfgfESrO4fQqij0iA.jpg" alt=" Representative photo of a man holding a smartphone displaying the logo of Chinese social media platform Tiktok. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tiktok" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">TikTok&nbsp;</a>to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu has suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-should-engage-in-mutual-beneficial-cooperation-eam-jaishankar-meets-his-chinese-counterpart-in-johannesberg-8743741" rel="dofollow">'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/Fv8whCOTL0c3aqmGg5Yf.png" alt=" Indian's External Affairs S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi Photograph: (WION) ">
India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unacceptable-and-wrong-canadas-pm-hopeful-ruby-dhalla-slams-false-media-allegations-of-india-link-8744118" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Unacceptable and wrong&rsquo;: Canada&rsquo;s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams &lsquo;false&rsquo; media allegations of India link</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/q6iYGbxEgFlGojSaAInP.png" alt=" Ruby Dhalla Photograph: (Instagram/rubydhalla1) ">
Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to &ldquo;discredit&rdquo; her leadership bid for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-detects-malicious-activity-by-china-targeting-liberal-partys-leadership-candidate-chrystia-freeland-8703062" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Liberal Party</a>.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-cpac-speech-chainsaw-for-bureaucracy-stunt-cringe-af-or-fire-internet-divided-8744709" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk&rsquo;s &lsquo;chainsaw for bureaucracy&rsquo; stunt: &lsquo;Cringe AF&rsquo; or &lsquo;fire&rsquo;? Internet divided</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/mhtg6y32Lvx1putk64ds.png" alt=" &ldquo;This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,&rdquo; Musk declared, lifting the power tool over his head. Photograph: (X/elonmusk) ">
Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took to the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop&mdash;a chainsaw.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-upset-over-pakistans-name-missing-from-broadcasting-logo-during-ind-vs-ban-champions-trophy-2025-match-8744485" rel="dofollow">PCB upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/sDUwzKUR0soEFbywIG9K.jpg" alt=" PCB upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie Photograph: (Others) ">
The PCB is upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan&rsquo;s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-applauds-vicky-kaushals-period-drama-8744685" rel="dofollow">'In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/0fleQkgiBKSErS6gOybm.png" alt=" PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava Photograph: (X) ">
On Friday (Feb 21), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Vicky Kaushal's recently released film Chhaava. The period drama is currently garnering a lot of appraise from all quarters, especially for its engaging storytelling and prolific performance from the lead cast.&nbsp;

World: Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been mixed in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place.

US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive" as the two met on Thursday in Kyiv. The Palestinian militant group Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place. Click on the headlines for more 'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive". 'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble alomg with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive. 'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'. Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a “modestly successful comedian” and a “dictator without elections.” Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to TikTok to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu has suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads. 'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20 India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet. ‘Unacceptable and wrong’: Canada’s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams ‘false’ media allegations of India link Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to “discredit” her leadership bid for the Liberal Party. Elon Musk’s ‘chainsaw for bureaucracy’ stunt: ‘Cringe AF’ or ‘fire’? Internet divided Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took to the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop—a chainsaw. PCB upset over Pakistan’s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie The PCB is upset over Pakistan’s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan’s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation. 'In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama On Friday (Feb 21), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Vicky Kaushal's recently released film Chhaava. The period drama is currently garnering a lot of appraise from all quarters, especially for its engaging storytelling and prolific performance from the lead cast.

Top 10 world news: US envoy praises talks with Zelensky; Gaza ceasefire updates, and more

Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop&mdash;a chainsaw.
&ldquo;This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,&rdquo; Musk declared, lifting the power tool over his head.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/national-layoff-trump-and-elon-musk-fire-over-20000-employees-from-us-federal-workforce-check-out-the-full-list-8742592" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'National layoff': Trump and Elon Musk fire over 20,000 employees from US federal workforce! Check out the full list</a>
The gift came from&nbsp;Argentina&rsquo;s libertarian President Javier Milei, who met Musk earlier in the day. The red metallic chainsaw was engraved with Milei&rsquo;s signature slogan.&nbsp;&ldquo;Viva la libertad, carajo&rdquo; which roughly translates to &ldquo;Long live freedom, damn it!&rdquo;
<h2>Musk slams Biden&rsquo;s immigration policies</h2>
During his speech, Musk criticised the previous Biden administration&rsquo;s handling of immigration. He singled out an app that allowed nearly 1 million migrants to enter the US on two-year permits with work eligibility.
&ldquo;A lot of people don&rsquo;t quite appreciate that this was an actual real scam at scale to tilt the scales of democracy in America,&rdquo; Musk said.
When Newsmax host Rob Schmitt asked him, &ldquo;Treason?&rdquo; Musk replied, &ldquo;Treason.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-dress-in-t-shirts-trump-mocks-genius-doge-staffers-who-dress-worse-than-elon-musk-8736789" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;They dress in T-shirts&rsquo;: Trump mocks &lsquo;genius&rsquo; DOGE staffers who dress &lsquo;worse than Elon Musk&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Musk open to auditing the Federal Reserve</h2>
Schmitt also asked Musk if he would consider auditing the Federal Reserve.
&ldquo;Yeah, sure, while we&rsquo;re at it,&rdquo; Musk responded, adding, &ldquo;Waste is pretty much everywhere.&rdquo;
Thousands of government jobs cut under Musk&rsquo;s oversight
As part of Trump&rsquo;s cost-cutting measures, Musk has been overseeing massive job cuts across government agencies. His efforts have impacted bank regulators, environmental workers, aerospace scientists, and many others.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-releases-video-of-shackled-deportees-elon-musks-reaction-sparks-condemnation-8736268" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation</a>
On Thursday, around 6,000 employees at the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) were reportedly notified of their termination, according to a source familiar with the matter.
<h2>Social media reacts to Musk&rsquo;s chainsaw stunt</h2>
Musk&rsquo;s display at CPAC triggered a wave of reactions online. Some praised him, while others criticised him harshly.
One user wrote, "Elon Musk thinks that firing thousands of people, including veterans, military spouses, people with kids, is like playing a video game where he gets to take a chainsaw to their lives. So fun, amirite? He truly sucks at being human."
Another posted, "Elon Musk waves around a chainsaw at CPAC while Argentinian president Javier Milei gives the thumbs up. These people are cringe AF and utterly unglued."
Meanwhile, Musk&rsquo;s supporters cheered him on.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-lawmaker-meret-schneider-receives-death-threat-for-criticising-elon-musks-x-heres-what-all-she-said-8736596" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Swiss lawmaker Meret Schneider receives death threat for criticising Elon Musk's X - Here's what all she said</a>
"Incredible. Javier Milei brought Elon Musk a DOGE chainsaw. The perfect gift to inspire the cutting of even more waste, fraud, and abuse," one user said.
Another added, "LMAOO. Javier Milei just gave Elon Musk a DOGE chainsaw. This is FIRE."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,” Musk declared, lifting the power tool over his head. The gift came from Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei, who met Musk earlier in the day.

Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop—a chainsaw. “This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,” Musk declared, lifting the power tool over his head. Also read: 'National layoff': Trump and Elon Musk fire over 20,000 employees from US federal workforce! Check out the full list The gift came from Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei, who met Musk earlier in the day. The red metallic chainsaw was engraved with Milei’s signature slogan. “Viva la libertad, carajo” which roughly translates to “Long live freedom, damn it!” Musk slams Biden’s immigration policies During his speech, Musk criticised the previous Biden administration’s handling of immigration. He singled out an app that allowed nearly 1 million migrants to enter the US on two-year permits with work eligibility. “A lot of people don’t quite appreciate that this was an actual real scam at scale to tilt the scales of democracy in America,” Musk said. When Newsmax host Rob Schmitt asked him, “Treason?” Musk replied, “Treason.” Also read: ‘They dress in T-shirts’: Trump mocks ‘genius’ DOGE staffers who dress ‘worse than Elon Musk’ Musk open to auditing the Federal Reserve Schmitt also asked Musk if he would consider auditing the Federal Reserve. “Yeah, sure, while we’re at it,” Musk responded, adding, “Waste is pretty much everywhere.” Thousands of government jobs cut under Musk’s oversight As part of Trump’s cost-cutting measures, Musk has been overseeing massive job cuts across government agencies. His efforts have impacted bank regulators, environmental workers, aerospace scientists, and many others. Also read: White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation On Thursday, around 6,000 employees at the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) were reportedly notified of their termination, according to a source familiar with the matter. Social media reacts to Musk’s chainsaw stunt Musk’s display at CPAC triggered a wave of reactions online. Some praised him, while others criticised him harshly. One user wrote, "Elon Musk thinks that firing thousands of people, including veterans, military spouses, people with kids, is like playing a video game where he gets to take a chainsaw to their lives. So fun, amirite? He truly sucks at being human." Another posted, "Elon Musk waves around a chainsaw at CPAC while Argentinian president Javier Milei gives the thumbs up. These people are cringe AF and utterly unglued." Meanwhile, Musk’s supporters cheered him on. Also read: Swiss lawmaker Meret Schneider receives death threat for criticising Elon Musk's X - Here's what all she said "Incredible. Javier Milei brought Elon Musk a DOGE chainsaw. The perfect gift to inspire the cutting of even more waste, fraud, and abuse," one user said. Another added, "LMAOO. Javier Milei just gave Elon Musk a DOGE chainsaw. This is FIRE." (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk’s ‘chainsaw for bureaucracy’ stunt: ‘Cringe AF’ or ‘fire’? Internet divided

US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive".&nbsp;
US envoy Kellogg met with Ukrainian leader on Thursday in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country.
&ldquo;A long and intense day with the senior leadership of Ukraine. Extensive and positive discussions with @ZelenskyyUa, the embattled and courageous leader of a nation at war, and his talented national security team,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-keith-kellogg-cancels-press-conference-in-ukraines-kyiv-after-meeting-with-volodymyr-zelensky-as-both-nations-engage-in-war-of-words-8741256" rel="dofollow">Zelensky says had 'productive meeting' with Keith Kellogg after Trump envoy cancels press conference</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A long and intense day with the senior leadership of Ukraine. Extensive and positive discussions with <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a>, the embattled and courageous leader of a nation at war and his talented national security team. <a href="https://t.co/kLu9roZ5z1">https://t.co/kLu9roZ5z1</a>
&mdash; Keith Kellogg (@generalkellogg) <a href="https://twitter.com/generalkellogg/status/1892928578641162487?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
This comes amid US President Donald Trump and Zelensky entangled in a war of words, over the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;
The US envoy's remarks came a day after his meeting with Zelensky, after which the US side cancelled the joint press conference meeting with the Ukrainian president.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-may-be-russian-someday-says-trump-ahead-of-envoy-keith-kelloggs-meeting-with-zelensky-8710008" rel="dofollow">Ukraine 'may be Russian someday', says Trump ahead of envoy Keith Kellogg's meeting with Zelensky</a>
Trump accused Zelensky of being a "dictator" and blamed him for the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;
While the Ukrainian president said that Trump was living in a Russian "disinformation bubble".&nbsp;
<h2>'No alternative but to work with Trump'</h2>
Polish president Andrzej Duda on Friday posted on X, saying that he had a phone call with Ukrainian President Zelensky.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-picks-gen-keith-kellogg-for-ukraine-envoy-to-end-war-how-will-he-do-it-779767" rel="dofollow">Will Trump's pick for Ukraine envoy Gen Keith Kellogg end war?</a>
Duda, who has been a supporter of Trump, told Zelensky in a "candid conversation" that "there is no other way to stop the bloodshed and achieve lasting peace in Ukraine except with the support of the United States.&rdquo;
&ldquo;For this reason, I suggested to President Zelenskyy to remain committed to the course of calm and constructive cooperation with @POTUS Donald Trump,&rdquo; he said. &nbsp;
Polish President Duda said that he trusted that "goodwill and honesty form the foundation of the US negotiation strategy,&rdquo; and had &ldquo;no doubt&rdquo; that Trump was &ldquo;guided by a deep sense of responsibility for global stability and peace.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tone-it-down-us-security-adviser-urges-zelenskyy-as-tensions-escalate-with-trump-administration-8742761" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Tone it down&rsquo;, US security adviser urges Zelensky as tensions escalate with Trump administration</a>
The Polish president&rsquo;s comments are one of the most supportive from any head of state or government in Europe after Trump&rsquo;s recent criticism of Zelenskyy and Ukraine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US envoy Keith Kellogg met with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country.

US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive". US envoy Kellogg met with Ukrainian leader on Thursday in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country. “A long and intense day with the senior leadership of Ukraine. Extensive and positive discussions with @ZelenskyyUa, the embattled and courageous leader of a nation at war, and his talented national security team,” he said. Also read: Zelensky says had 'productive meeting' with Keith Kellogg after Trump envoy cancels press conference A long and intense day with the senior leadership of Ukraine. Extensive and positive discussions with @ZelenskyyUa, the embattled and courageous leader of a nation at war and his talented national security team. https://t.co/kLu9roZ5z1 — Keith Kellogg (@generalkellogg) February 21, 2025 This comes amid US President Donald Trump and Zelensky entangled in a war of words, over the Russia-Ukraine war. The US envoy's remarks came a day after his meeting with Zelensky, after which the US side cancelled the joint press conference meeting with the Ukrainian president. Also read: Ukraine 'may be Russian someday', says Trump ahead of envoy Keith Kellogg's meeting with Zelensky Trump accused Zelensky of being a "dictator" and blamed him for the Russia-Ukraine war. While the Ukrainian president said that Trump was living in a Russian "disinformation bubble". 'No alternative but to work with Trump' Polish president Andrzej Duda on Friday posted on X, saying that he had a phone call with Ukrainian President Zelensky. Also read: Will Trump's pick for Ukraine envoy Gen Keith Kellogg end war? Duda, who has been a supporter of Trump, told Zelensky in a "candid conversation" that "there is no other way to stop the bloodshed and achieve lasting peace in Ukraine except with the support of the United States.” “For this reason, I suggested to President Zelenskyy to remain committed to the course of calm and constructive cooperation with @POTUS Donald Trump,” he said. Polish President Duda said that he trusted that "goodwill and honesty form the foundation of the US negotiation strategy,” and had “no doubt” that Trump was “guided by a deep sense of responsibility for global stability and peace.” Also read: ‘Tone it down’, US security adviser urges Zelensky as tensions escalate with Trump administration The Polish president’s comments are one of the most supportive from any head of state or government in Europe after Trump’s recent criticism of Zelenskyy and Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky

US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a &ldquo;modestly successful comedian&rdquo; and a &ldquo;dictator without elections.&rdquo;
This comes after Trump previously suggested that Ukraine had started the war and pushed for elections in the country. Speaking after recent US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war, Trump questioned the absence of elections in Ukraine.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-years-of-russia-ukraine-war-who-started-it-kremlin-or-kyiv-8741215" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?</a>
"When they want a seat at the table, you could say the people have to&hellip; wouldn&rsquo;t the people of Ukraine have to say, like, &lsquo;You know, it&rsquo;s been a long time since we&rsquo;ve had an election,&rsquo;&rdquo; Trump said.
He further claimed, &ldquo;We have a situation where we haven&rsquo;t had elections in Ukraine, where we have martial law in Ukraine, where the leader in Ukraine&mdash;I mean, I hate to say it, but he&rsquo;s down at four per cent approval rating&mdash;and the country&rsquo;s been blown to smithereens.&rdquo;
Trump&rsquo;s comments prompted Ukraine&rsquo;s European allies to show their support for Zelensky. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Zelensky Ukraine&rsquo;s &ldquo;democratically elected leader&rdquo; and defended the decision to postpone elections. &ldquo;It is perfectly reasonable to suspend elections during wartime, as the UK did during World War II,&rdquo; Starmer&rsquo;s office said following his call with Zelensky on February 19.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-why-ukrainian-soldiers-are-running-away-as-war-with-russia-drags-on-8679412" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Realised I&rsquo;m nobody, just a number&rsquo;: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on</a>
Let's take a look at the real reason behind why Ukraine hasn't held elections:
<h2>Why hasn&rsquo;t Ukraine held elections?</h2>
Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. However, following Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine imposed martial law, which legally prevents national elections.
Ukraine&rsquo;s parliament recently extended martial law until May 9, 2025. Holding an election before the war ends would require lifting martial law, a move that Zelensky and Ukrainian lawmakers have resisted.
Last November, all political parties in Ukraine&rsquo;s parliament agreed to defer elections until the war is over. Zelensky himself has promised to hold elections once the conflict ends but insists that doing so now would be impossible.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
"If we suspend martial law, we will lose the army, and voting without the military is dishonest," he said earlier this month.
In addition to security concerns, millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, either as refugees abroad or within Ukraine. Up to six million more are living in Russian-occupied territories, making an election logistically difficult.
Another issue is the destruction of electoral infrastructure. Many schools and public buildings that would typically serve as polling stations have been damaged or destroyed by Russian attacks.
Even if a ceasefire were to be reached, elections would still take time. According to election watchdog Opora, there is a broad consensus that voting should not take place until at least six months after martial law is lifted.
<h2>When was Ukraine&rsquo;s last election?</h2>
Zelensky was elected in 2019 in a landslide victory against then-incumbent Petro Poroshenko. Running as the candidate for the Servant of the People party, he won by the largest second-round margin in Ukraine&rsquo;s history.
<h2>Who else questions Zelensky&rsquo;s legitimacy?</h2>
Trump is not the only one raising questions about Zelensky&rsquo;s legitimacy. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also attempted to cast doubt on his authority, particularly after his term officially expired last year.
During the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Putin was open to negotiations with Zelensky but added that &ldquo;legal aspects related to his legitimacy&rdquo; must be considered.
<h2>Would Zelensky win an election now?</h2>
If Ukraine were to hold an election today, current polling suggests that Zelensky would still be the frontrunner. A recent survey found that 57 per cent of Ukrainians trust him, an increase from 52 per cent in December. Another poll conducted from late November to early January showed that 63 per cent of Ukrainians either fully approved or somewhat approved of his leadership.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. However, following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine imposed martial law, which legally prevents national elections.

US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a “modestly successful comedian” and a “dictator without elections.” This comes after Trump previously suggested that Ukraine had started the war and pushed for elections in the country. Speaking after recent US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war, Trump questioned the absence of elections in Ukraine. Also read: Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? "When they want a seat at the table, you could say the people have to… wouldn’t the people of Ukraine have to say, like, ‘You know, it’s been a long time since we’ve had an election,’” Trump said. He further claimed, “We have a situation where we haven’t had elections in Ukraine, where we have martial law in Ukraine, where the leader in Ukraine—I mean, I hate to say it, but he’s down at four per cent approval rating—and the country’s been blown to smithereens.” Trump’s comments prompted Ukraine’s European allies to show their support for Zelensky. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Zelensky Ukraine’s “democratically elected leader” and defended the decision to postpone elections. “It is perfectly reasonable to suspend elections during wartime, as the UK did during World War II,” Starmer’s office said following his call with Zelensky on February 19. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on Let's take a look at the real reason behind why Ukraine hasn't held elections: Why hasn’t Ukraine held elections? Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. However, following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine imposed martial law, which legally prevents national elections. Ukraine’s parliament recently extended martial law until May 9, 2025. Holding an election before the war ends would require lifting martial law, a move that Zelensky and Ukrainian lawmakers have resisted. Last November, all political parties in Ukraine’s parliament agreed to defer elections until the war is over. Zelensky himself has promised to hold elections once the conflict ends but insists that doing so now would be impossible. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war "If we suspend martial law, we will lose the army, and voting without the military is dishonest," he said earlier this month. In addition to security concerns, millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, either as refugees abroad or within Ukraine. Up to six million more are living in Russian-occupied territories, making an election logistically difficult. Another issue is the destruction of electoral infrastructure. Many schools and public buildings that would typically serve as polling stations have been damaged or destroyed by Russian attacks. Even if a ceasefire were to be reached, elections would still take time. According to election watchdog Opora, there is a broad consensus that voting should not take place until at least six months after martial law is lifted. When was Ukraine’s last election? Zelensky was elected in 2019 in a landslide victory against then-incumbent Petro Poroshenko. Running as the candidate for the Servant of the People party, he won by the largest second-round margin in Ukraine’s history. Who else questions Zelensky’s legitimacy? Trump is not the only one raising questions about Zelensky’s legitimacy. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also attempted to cast doubt on his authority, particularly after his term officially expired last year. During the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Putin was open to negotiations with Zelensky but added that “legal aspects related to his legitimacy” must be considered. Would Zelensky win an election now? If Ukraine were to hold an election today, current polling suggests that Zelensky would still be the frontrunner. A recent survey found that 57 per cent of Ukrainians trust him, an increase from 52 per cent in December. Another poll conducted from late November to early January showed that 63 per cent of Ukrainians either fully approved or somewhat approved of his leadership. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting

Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tiktok" rel="dofollow">TikTok </a>to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads.&nbsp;
In the five days of TikTok being relisted on Apple's iPhone app store and Google Play, downloads of Xiaohongshu, also known as Rednote, plummeted by 91 per cent, according to Sensor Tower data.&nbsp;
The social media app Rednote is referred to as China's version of Instagram and gained popularity when TikTok was about to face a ban in the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-uncertainity-tiktok-returns-to-apple-and-google-app-stores-8720701">Amid uncertainty TikTok returns to Apple and Google app stores</a>
Daily active users on Rednote are still about a quarter higher than they were prior to TikTok's delisting.&nbsp;
After being brought back, TikTok more than doubled its usual downloads.
The popular short-video platform, which has approximately 170 million users in the US, briefly went offline ahead of a law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the app or face a nationwide ban. The law was set to take effect on 19 January.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-parents-sue-tiktok-over-childrens-death-over-this-reason-8700375">TikTok sued by UK teen parents over THIS reason</a>
After assuming office on 20 January, Trump signed an order delaying the enforcement of the ban on TikTok by 75 days. He has since confirmed discussions with various parties about acquiring TikTok and indicated that a decision regarding its future is likely in February.
Earlier this month, Trump mentioned that Microsoft was among the companies interested in acquiring the platform. &ldquo;I would say yes&hellip; A lot of interest in TikTok. There&rsquo;s great interest in TikTok," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-executive-order-us-treasury-department-sovereign-wealth-fund-tiktok-8687925">Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok</a>
Notably, the company has rejected the idea of selling it to a US company.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: In the five days of TikTok being relisted on Apple's iPhone app store and Google Play, Xiaohongshu's downloads plummeted by 91 per cent, according to Sensor Tower data.

Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to TikTok to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads. In the five days of TikTok being relisted on Apple's iPhone app store and Google Play, downloads of Xiaohongshu, also known as Rednote, plummeted by 91 per cent, according to Sensor Tower data. The social media app Rednote is referred to as China's version of Instagram and gained popularity when TikTok was about to face a ban in the US. Also read: Amid uncertainty TikTok returns to Apple and Google app stores Daily active users on Rednote are still about a quarter higher than they were prior to TikTok's delisting. After being brought back, TikTok more than doubled its usual downloads. The popular short-video platform, which has approximately 170 million users in the US, briefly went offline ahead of a law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the app or face a nationwide ban. The law was set to take effect on 19 January. Also read: TikTok sued by UK teen parents over THIS reason After assuming office on 20 January, Trump signed an order delaying the enforcement of the ban on TikTok by 75 days. He has since confirmed discussions with various parties about acquiring TikTok and indicated that a decision regarding its future is likely in February. Earlier this month, Trump mentioned that Microsoft was among the companies interested in acquiring the platform. “I would say yes… A lot of interest in TikTok. There’s great interest in TikTok," he said. Also read: Trump signs executive order to create US sovereign wealth fund, says it may 'buy' TikTok Notably, the company has rejected the idea of selling it to a US company. (With inputs from agencies)

Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores

Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to &ldquo;discredit&rdquo; her leadership bid for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-detects-malicious-activity-by-china-targeting-liberal-partys-leadership-candidate-chrystia-freeland-8703062" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Liberal Party</a>.
In a statement on X, Dhalla said, &ldquo;As the first woman of colour to run for Prime Minister in the history of Canada, I will not allow every person of colour or Canadian from a multicultural community to be painted with the brush of foreign interference. It is unacceptable and wrong.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ruby-dhalla-indian-origin-politician-running-for-canada-elections-8661646">Who is Ruby Dhalla, Indian-origin politician running for Canada elections?</a>
Speaking to CPAC, she said she was &ldquo;shocked&rdquo; by the allegations, calling them &ldquo;completely false.&rdquo; She confirmed that the Liberal Party had sent her campaign a set of questions, which they fully answered along with all supporting documents. The questions were related to two individuals using the same credit card to make campaign donations, which she explained was common among couples with joint accounts.
<h2>What did Canadian media report?</h2>
The allegations first appeared in The Globe and Mail, which reported on Thursday that the Liberal Party had questioned Dhalla&rsquo;s campaign about possible foreign interference from the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
However, the Liberal Party officially denied this claim. A spokesperson told CBC News that none of the questions sent to Dhalla were related to foreign interference.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ruby-dhalla-canadas-potential-next-pm-candidate-had-once-acted-in-a-hindi-film-8675789">Ruby Dhalla, Canada's PM candidate, once acted in a Hindi film</a>
Despite this, CBC News suggested a connection between Dhalla and the Indian government. The outlet reported that her social media activity showed her involvement in Indian politics, including assisting Modi&rsquo;s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in 2017 and visiting Modi as part of a Sikh delegation in 2022.
<h2>Dhalla&rsquo;s political background</h2>
Ruby Dhalla first entered Canadian politics in 2004 when she was elected as a Liberal MP from Brampton-Springdale. She was re-elected in 2006 and 2008 but lost in 2011. She later chose not to run in 2015 when the Liberal Party won a majority government. Her 2004 victory, along with Conservative Nina Grewal, made her one of the first women of Indian origin elected to the House of Commons.
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<h2>Previous claims of Indian interference in Canada</h2>
This is not the first time Canada has accused India of election interference. Last month, a report from the Canadian Commission claimed that, after China, India was the second most active country involved in foreign interference in Canada&rsquo;s electoral process.
"India is the second most active country engaging in electoral foreign interference in Canada. Like the PRC, India is a critical actor on the world stage. Canada and India have worked together for decades, but there are challenges in the relationship. Many of these are long-standing and inform India's foreign interference activities," the report stated.
India rejected these claims, with its Ministry of External Affairs calling them "baseless."
"We have seen a report about alleged activities on purported interference. It is Canada which has been consistently interfering in India's internal affairs," India&rsquo;s foreign ministry said.
The statement also accused Canada of enabling illegal migration and organised crime, adding, "We reject the report's insinuations on India and expect that the support system enabling illegal migration will not be further countenanced."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Rubi Dhalla said, “As the first woman of colour to run for Prime Minister in the history of Canada, I will not allow every person of colour or Canadian from a multicultural community to be painted with the brush of foreign interference." India news

Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to “discredit” her leadership bid for the Liberal Party. In a statement on X, Dhalla said, “As the first woman of colour to run for Prime Minister in the history of Canada, I will not allow every person of colour or Canadian from a multicultural community to be painted with the brush of foreign interference. It is unacceptable and wrong.” Also read: Who is Ruby Dhalla, Indian-origin politician running for Canada elections? Speaking to CPAC, she said she was “shocked” by the allegations, calling them “completely false.” She confirmed that the Liberal Party had sent her campaign a set of questions, which they fully answered along with all supporting documents. The questions were related to two individuals using the same credit card to make campaign donations, which she explained was common among couples with joint accounts. What did Canadian media report? The allegations first appeared in The Globe and Mail, which reported on Thursday that the Liberal Party had questioned Dhalla’s campaign about possible foreign interference from the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, the Liberal Party officially denied this claim. A spokesperson told CBC News that none of the questions sent to Dhalla were related to foreign interference. Also read: Ruby Dhalla, Canada's PM candidate, once acted in a Hindi film Despite this, CBC News suggested a connection between Dhalla and the Indian government. The outlet reported that her social media activity showed her involvement in Indian politics, including assisting Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in 2017 and visiting Modi as part of a Sikh delegation in 2022. Dhalla’s political background Ruby Dhalla first entered Canadian politics in 2004 when she was elected as a Liberal MP from Brampton-Springdale. She was re-elected in 2006 and 2008 but lost in 2011. She later chose not to run in 2015 when the Liberal Party won a majority government. Her 2004 victory, along with Conservative Nina Grewal, made her one of the first women of Indian origin elected to the House of Commons. Also read: 'Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine': Canada's Trudeau says Kyiv should be part of US-Russia talks Previous claims of Indian interference in Canada This is not the first time Canada has accused India of election interference. Last month, a report from the Canadian Commission claimed that, after China, India was the second most active country involved in foreign interference in Canada’s electoral process. "India is the second most active country engaging in electoral foreign interference in Canada. Like the PRC, India is a critical actor on the world stage. Canada and India have worked together for decades, but there are challenges in the relationship. Many of these are long-standing and inform India's foreign interference activities," the report stated. India rejected these claims, with its Ministry of External Affairs calling them "baseless." "We have seen a report about alleged activities on purported interference. It is Canada which has been consistently interfering in India's internal affairs," India’s foreign ministry said. The statement also accused Canada of enabling illegal migration and organised crime, adding, "We reject the report's insinuations on India and expect that the support system enabling illegal migration will not be further countenanced." (With inputs from agencies)

‘Unacceptable and wrong’: Canada’s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams ‘false’ media allegations of India link

After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive.&nbsp;
Hamas official Ismail al-Thawabteh claimed that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble in the attack. He stressed that Israel was behind her death.&nbsp;
For the last one year, Hamas has been claiming that Shiri and her two young sons were killed in an Israeli airstrike.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-murdering-months-old-kfir-bibas-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-says-body-of-their-mother-not-returned-as-promised-8741958">Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing</a>
They said the remains placed in a coffin labeled with Shiri&rsquo;s face were actually that of an unidentified Gazan woman.
On Thursday, Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with the body of Oded Lifshitz, an Israeli journalist and advocate for Palestinian rights. This marked the first return of Israeli bodies under the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Hamas in a statement, said that it will examine these allegations "very seriously" and announce the results of its investigation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-cult-netanyahu-vows-vengeance-against-hamas-after-it-parades-dead-bodies-of-israeli-hostages-8741079">&lsquo;Death cult&rsquo;: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it &lsquo;parades dead bodies&rsquo; of Israeli hostages</a>
<h2>'Unspeakable cynicism'</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday slammed "unspeakable cynicism" of Hamas after Israeli forensic authorities determined that the body handed over yesterday which Hamas said was of Shiri, is not her's.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a video statement.
He added, "Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, but the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies. But in an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri alongside her young children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-hoped-prayed-for-different-ending-families-crushed-as-hamas-releases-israeli-hostages-bodies-8740171">&lsquo;We hoped, prayed for a different ending&rsquo;: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages&rsquo;&nbsp;bodies</a>
He vowed to act "resolutely to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement.&rdquo;
<h2>Herzog slams Hamas for 'horrific violation' of deal&nbsp;</h2>
Israeli President Isaac Herzog slammed the Palestinian militant group of &ldquo;horrific violation&rdquo; after it handed over the body of an unidentified Gazan woman.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The bodies of Ariel and Kfir, so pure and innocent, were identified, while their beloved mother, Shiri, remains in captivity,&rdquo; says Herzog in a statement. &ldquo;This is a shocking and horrific violation of the ceasefire agreement, another cruel act by the terrorists of Hamas, who continue to show utter disregard for humanity.&rdquo;
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(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas official said that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble, reiterating Israel was behind her death.

After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive. Hamas official Ismail al-Thawabteh claimed that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble in the attack. He stressed that Israel was behind her death. For the last one year, Hamas has been claiming that Shiri and her two young sons were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Also read: Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing They said the remains placed in a coffin labeled with Shiri’s face were actually that of an unidentified Gazan woman. On Thursday, Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with the body of Oded Lifshitz, an Israeli journalist and advocate for Palestinian rights. This marked the first return of Israeli bodies under the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas in a statement, said that it will examine these allegations "very seriously" and announce the results of its investigation. Also read: ‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages 'Unspeakable cynicism' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday slammed "unspeakable cynicism" of Hamas after Israeli forensic authorities determined that the body handed over yesterday which Hamas said was of Shiri, is not her's. “The cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. He added, "Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, but the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies. But in an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri alongside her young children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin.” Also read: ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies He vowed to act "resolutely to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement.” Herzog slams Hamas for 'horrific violation' of deal Israeli President Isaac Herzog slammed the Palestinian militant group of “horrific violation” after it handed over the body of an unidentified Gazan woman. “The bodies of Ariel and Kfir, so pure and innocent, were identified, while their beloved mother, Shiri, remains in captivity,” says Herzog in a statement. “This is a shocking and horrific violation of the ceasefire agreement, another cruel act by the terrorists of Hamas, who continue to show utter disregard for humanity.” Also read: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack' (With inputs from agencies)

'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike

China issued a warning Friday of potential "live fire" naval drills in international waters off Australia's eastern coast but gave little prior notice, disrupting commercial air flights, the Australian government said.
Beijing described the manoeuvres as training exercises that were "safe, standard and professional" and in line with international law, without commenting on whether live ammunition was used.
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Australia's defence forces, joined by close ally New Zealand, have been monitoring the Chinese navy vessels -- a frigate, a cruiser and a supply tanker -- since they were spotted last week.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said China gave a warning that the vessels intended to engage in live firing as they sailed about half way between Australia and New Zealand in the Tasman Sea.
"By that I mean a broadcast that was picked up by airlines or literally planes that were commercial planes that were flying across the Tasman," he told national broadcaster ABC.
The Chinese naval ships were in international waters and acting within international law, Marles said, but Australian warships would typically give 12-24 hours' notice of such drills to give airlines time to react.
"That notice was not provided here," the defence minister said.
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"This was very disconcerting for the planes that were flying, but they were able to divert," he said, stressing that the aircraft had not been placed in danger.
Australia had made representations to China both in Canberra and in Beijing asking why the purported live fire drills were held there and why more notice was not given to avoid disruption, Marles said.
The government was still awaiting confirmation that live firing actually took place, he said.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed there had been "no imminent risk of danger" to Australian or New Zealand assets.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-general-upendra-dwivedi-highlights-border-de-escalation-efforts-with-china-8738572">Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlights border de-escalation efforts with China</a>
Asked about the drills on Friday, China's foreign ministry said the country's military had "organised a naval formation to conduct training and exercises in distant waters".
<h2><hl2>Commercial fights change course</hl2></h2>
"The exercises were conducted in a safe, standard, and professional manner at all times, in accordance with relevant international laws and practices," ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular press briefing.
Australia's air safety agency warned commercial flights to alter their course after receiving "reports of live firing in international waters".
"As a precaution, we have advised airlines with flights planned in the area," government agency Airservices Australia said in a statement.
"We are also working together to coordinate advice to operators and pilots."
Qantas and its subsidiary budget airline Jetstar temporarily adjusted some flights between Australia and New Zealand, industry sources said.
Virgin Australia was also heeding the advice, while Air New Zealand said it had "modified flight paths as needed to avoid the area".
The ships were reportedly within 150 nautical miles (around 280 kilometres) of Australia's mainland earlier this week.
Last week, Canberra rebuked Beijing for "unsafe" military conduct, accusing a Chinese fighter jet of dropping flares near an Australian air force plane patrolling the South China Sea.
Beijing swiftly hit back, accusing the Australian plane of "violating Chinese sovereignty and endangering Chinese national security".
It was the latest in a string of tense encounters between China and Australia in the increasingly contested airspace and shipping lanes of the Asia-Pacific region.
A Chinese fighter jet was accused of intercepting an Australian Seahawk helicopter in international airspace in 2024, dropping flares across its flight path.
In 2023, a Chinese destroyer was accused of bombarding submerged Australian navy divers with sonar pulses in waters off Japan, causing minor injuries.
The United States and allies including Australia frequently cross through the 180-kilometre (112-mile) Taiwan Strait to reinforce its status as an international waterway, angering China, which claims jurisdiction over the waters.
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: Beijing described the manoeuvres as training exercises that were "safe, standard and professional" and in line with international law, without commenting on whether live ammunition was used.

China issued a warning Friday of potential "live fire" naval drills in international waters off Australia's eastern coast but gave little prior notice, disrupting commercial air flights, the Australian government said. Beijing described the manoeuvres as training exercises that were "safe, standard and professional" and in line with international law, without commenting on whether live ammunition was used. Also read: Trump floats another idea on trade, this time with China Australia's defence forces, joined by close ally New Zealand, have been monitoring the Chinese navy vessels -- a frigate, a cruiser and a supply tanker -- since they were spotted last week. Defence Minister Richard Marles said China gave a warning that the vessels intended to engage in live firing as they sailed about half way between Australia and New Zealand in the Tasman Sea. "By that I mean a broadcast that was picked up by airlines or literally planes that were commercial planes that were flying across the Tasman," he told national broadcaster ABC. The Chinese naval ships were in international waters and acting within international law, Marles said, but Australian warships would typically give 12-24 hours' notice of such drills to give airlines time to react. "That notice was not provided here," the defence minister said. Also read: ‘It’s possible’: Trump eyes new trade deal with China "This was very disconcerting for the planes that were flying, but they were able to divert," he said, stressing that the aircraft had not been placed in danger. Australia had made representations to China both in Canberra and in Beijing asking why the purported live fire drills were held there and why more notice was not given to avoid disruption, Marles said. The government was still awaiting confirmation that live firing actually took place, he said. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed there had been "no imminent risk of danger" to Australian or New Zealand assets. Also read: Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlights border de-escalation efforts with China Asked about the drills on Friday, China's foreign ministry said the country's military had "organised a naval formation to conduct training and exercises in distant waters". Commercial fights change course "The exercises were conducted in a safe, standard, and professional manner at all times, in accordance with relevant international laws and practices," ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular press briefing. Australia's air safety agency warned commercial flights to alter their course after receiving "reports of live firing in international waters". "As a precaution, we have advised airlines with flights planned in the area," government agency Airservices Australia said in a statement. "We are also working together to coordinate advice to operators and pilots." Qantas and its subsidiary budget airline Jetstar temporarily adjusted some flights between Australia and New Zealand, industry sources said. Virgin Australia was also heeding the advice, while Air New Zealand said it had "modified flight paths as needed to avoid the area". The ships were reportedly within 150 nautical miles (around 280 kilometres) of Australia's mainland earlier this week. Last week, Canberra rebuked Beijing for "unsafe" military conduct, accusing a Chinese fighter jet of dropping flares near an Australian air force plane patrolling the South China Sea. Beijing swiftly hit back, accusing the Australian plane of "violating Chinese sovereignty and endangering Chinese national security". It was the latest in a string of tense encounters between China and Australia in the increasingly contested airspace and shipping lanes of the Asia-Pacific region. A Chinese fighter jet was accused of intercepting an Australian Seahawk helicopter in international airspace in 2024, dropping flares across its flight path. In 2023, a Chinese destroyer was accused of bombarding submerged Australian navy divers with sonar pulses in waters off Japan, causing minor injuries. The United States and allies including Australia frequently cross through the 180-kilometre (112-mile) Taiwan Strait to reinforce its status as an international waterway, angering China, which claims jurisdiction over the waters. 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.

China’s ‘live fire’ drills near Australia disrupt flights

India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet.&nbsp;
Both the leaders discussed bilateral relations and global challenges.&nbsp;
Chinese foreign minister Yi said that the country's leaders have set out in the direction of improving the relationship.&nbsp;
"We affirm that China and India as two Asian civilisations and neighbours should engage in mutually beneficial cooperation," he said.&nbsp;
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Yi said that in the bilateral relationship, the most important thing last year was the summit meeting between President Xi Jinping and Indian PM Narendra Modi in Kazan.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and China's Wang Yi hold bilateral talks in Johannesburg on the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> Foreign Ministers' meet WION correspondent <a href="https://twitter.com/KaldenOngmu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kaldenongmu</a> joins Diksha Bisla with the latest <a href="https://t.co/WSDhsx2v3v">pic.twitter.com/WSDhsx2v3v</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1892887524709978587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
Prior to the meeting, EAM Jaishankar stressed that India and China are members of BRICS, SCO and G20. "There are also regional and global issues of mutual interests wherein the exchange of perspectives will be to our mutual benefit. I look forward to our conversation today."
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He pointed that gatherings like the G20 have provided opportunities for dialogue even during challenging phases in India-China relations.&nbsp;
Jaishankar acknowledged the collaborative efforts of both the countries in supporting G20 amid a polarized global landscape, highlighting the importance of international cooperation.
&ldquo;Such gatherings have provided an opportunity for our interaction even when our ties were going through a difficult phase,&rdquo; Jaishankar said. &ldquo;We should also recognize that in a polarized global situation, our two countries have worked hard to preserve and protect the G20 as an institution.&rdquo;
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He further mentioned key visits by the Indian NSA and Foreign Secretary to China since the leaders' last meeting during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November last year.
&ldquo;Our discussions have included the management of peace and tranquility in the border areas as well as other dimensions of our ties. I am glad today to have a further exchange of views,&rdquo; Jaishankar said.
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(With inputs from agencies)

World: Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said that the country's leaders have set out the overall direction of improving India-China relationship.

India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet. Both the leaders discussed bilateral relations and global challenges. Chinese foreign minister Yi said that the country's leaders have set out in the direction of improving the relationship. "We affirm that China and India as two Asian civilisations and neighbours should engage in mutually beneficial cooperation," he said. Also read: ‘It’s possible’: Trump eyes new trade deal with China Yi said that in the bilateral relationship, the most important thing last year was the summit meeting between President Xi Jinping and Indian PM Narendra Modi in Kazan. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and China's Wang Yi hold bilateral talks in Johannesburg on the sidelines of #G20 Foreign Ministers' meet WION correspondent @kaldenongmu joins Diksha Bisla with the latest pic.twitter.com/WSDhsx2v3v — WION (@WIONews) February 21, 2025 Prior to the meeting, EAM Jaishankar stressed that India and China are members of BRICS, SCO and G20. "There are also regional and global issues of mutual interests wherein the exchange of perspectives will be to our mutual benefit. I look forward to our conversation today." Also read: Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlights border de-escalation efforts with China He pointed that gatherings like the G20 have provided opportunities for dialogue even during challenging phases in India-China relations. Jaishankar acknowledged the collaborative efforts of both the countries in supporting G20 amid a polarized global landscape, highlighting the importance of international cooperation. “Such gatherings have provided an opportunity for our interaction even when our ties were going through a difficult phase,” Jaishankar said. “We should also recognize that in a polarized global situation, our two countries have worked hard to preserve and protect the G20 as an institution.” Also read: India NSA Ajit Doval, China FM Wang Yi hold vital talks on peace along LAC He further mentioned key visits by the Indian NSA and Foreign Secretary to China since the leaders' last meeting during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November last year. “Our discussions have included the management of peace and tranquility in the border areas as well as other dimensions of our ties. I am glad today to have a further exchange of views,” Jaishankar said. Also read: Hours after Trump inauguration, Putin dials 'dear friend' Xi Jinping - Here's what they talked about (With inputs from agencies)

'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said she would not use her power to remove New York City Mayor Eric Adams as he tried to fight a criminal indictment charging him with corruption, but proposed new oversight of the mayor's office in an announcement on Thursday (February 20).
Adams, a Democrat, has faced months of mounting calls for his resignation or removal and Hochul said she had heard from many New Yorkers who feel "outraged, hurt, betrayed" by the mayor.
The calls have grown louder in recent days as the mayor pledged to help U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican, with deporting immigrants in the country without authorization while Trump's Justice Department sought to have the federal indictment against Adams dismissed.
The state's constitution gives the governor the power to remove a mayor, and to suspend him or her for 30 days once charges have been brought. The power has not been invoked in nearly a century, and the process has never been carried through to completion.
Hochul said she was "deeply troubled" by the accusations against Adams and said New York City was in crisis, but said on Thursday that she would not commence removal proceedings for now.
"My strong belief is that the will of the voters and the supremacy and sanctity of democratic elections preclude me from any action," she said at a press conference. "I cannot deny the people of this great city the power to make this decision for themselves."
Instead, she proposed that New York create a new state inspector general overseeing New York City and empowering other city elected officials to sue the federal government if the mayor declines to do so.
A spokesperson for Adams, who is seeking a second term in elections this November, did not respond to a request for comment on the governor's proposals. He has repeatedly said he has done nothing wrong and will not resign.
Previously, Hochul and Adams have had a relatively warm relationship as two of New York's most powerful elected officials: they have made joint appearances to announce new initiatives, particularly on matters of public safety, and refrained from public criticism of each other.
Hochul said new oversight was needed to "make sure our leaders are operating only with the city's best interest in mind, unimpeded by any legal agreements with the Trump Justice Department."
Hochul said Trump is "taking out his anger and frustration over the 35 felony convictions he received here in the state of New York," and that she believed his administration would "stop at nothing to try and exercise control over New York."
Hochul's plans would need votes of approval from lawmakers in the state legislature and the city council, some of whom may oppose giving the state greater control over its most important city.
Adams, a 64-year-old former police captain, was indicted last September on five corruption charges, accusing him of arranging illegal foreign donations to his election campaigns and luxury travel from Turkish nationals seeking to influence him. He has pleaded not guilty.
He has publicly courted Trump, who returned to the White House in January and has the power to pardon Adams. More than half a dozen senior prosecutors at the Department of Justice have resigned in protest over the effort by Emil Bove, Trump's new deputy attorney general, to have the indictment against Adams dismissed, which is now being considered by a U.S. district judge in Manhattan.
Hochul said she would retain the option of bringing removal proceedings at a later date.
"I also do not want to be running the city of New York," Hochul said. "The mayor needs to have a team in place, restore the confidence of people that there's competent government being delivered."
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WORLD | The state's constitution gives the governor the power to remove a mayor, and to suspend him or her for 30 days once charges have been brought.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said she would not use her power to remove New York City Mayor Eric Adams as he tried to fight a criminal indictment charging him with corruption, but proposed new oversight of the mayor's office in an announcement on Thursday (February 20). Adams, a Democrat, has faced months of mounting calls for his resignation or removal and Hochul said she had heard from many New Yorkers who feel "outraged, hurt, betrayed" by the mayor. The calls have grown louder in recent days as the mayor pledged to help U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican, with deporting immigrants in the country without authorization while Trump's Justice Department sought to have the federal indictment against Adams dismissed. The state's constitution gives the governor the power to remove a mayor, and to suspend him or her for 30 days once charges have been brought. The power has not been invoked in nearly a century, and the process has never been carried through to completion. Hochul said she was "deeply troubled" by the accusations against Adams and said New York City was in crisis, but said on Thursday that she would not commence removal proceedings for now. "My strong belief is that the will of the voters and the supremacy and sanctity of democratic elections preclude me from any action," she said at a press conference. "I cannot deny the people of this great city the power to make this decision for themselves." Instead, she proposed that New York create a new state inspector general overseeing New York City and empowering other city elected officials to sue the federal government if the mayor declines to do so. A spokesperson for Adams, who is seeking a second term in elections this November, did not respond to a request for comment on the governor's proposals. He has repeatedly said he has done nothing wrong and will not resign. Previously, Hochul and Adams have had a relatively warm relationship as two of New York's most powerful elected officials: they have made joint appearances to announce new initiatives, particularly on matters of public safety, and refrained from public criticism of each other. Hochul said new oversight was needed to "make sure our leaders are operating only with the city's best interest in mind, unimpeded by any legal agreements with the Trump Justice Department." Hochul said Trump is "taking out his anger and frustration over the 35 felony convictions he received here in the state of New York," and that she believed his administration would "stop at nothing to try and exercise control over New York." Hochul's plans would need votes of approval from lawmakers in the state legislature and the city council, some of whom may oppose giving the state greater control over its most important city. Adams, a 64-year-old former police captain, was indicted last September on five corruption charges, accusing him of arranging illegal foreign donations to his election campaigns and luxury travel from Turkish nationals seeking to influence him. He has pleaded not guilty. He has publicly courted Trump, who returned to the White House in January and has the power to pardon Adams. More than half a dozen senior prosecutors at the Department of Justice have resigned in protest over the effort by Emil Bove, Trump's new deputy attorney general, to have the indictment against Adams dismissed, which is now being considered by a U.S. district judge in Manhattan. Hochul said she would retain the option of bringing removal proceedings at a later date. "I also do not want to be running the city of New York," Hochul said. "The mayor needs to have a team in place, restore the confidence of people that there's competent government being delivered." 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.

New York governor will not remove Eric Adams from office

Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'.
"We have seen information that has been put out by the US administration regarding certain USA activities and funding. These are obviously very deeply troubling. This has led to concerns about foreign interference in India's internal affairs. Relevant departments and agencies are looking into this matter," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said
"It would be premature to make a public comment at this stage, so relevant authorities are looking into it, and hopefully we can come up with an update on that subsequently," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-kash-patels-bollywood-style-malhari-welcome-as-fbi-director-trumps-assistant-posts-viral-video-8743499" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WATCH | Kash Patel's Bollywood-style 'Malhari' welcome as FBI director; Trump's assistant posts viral video</a>
The ministry spokesperson also addresses the deportation of some Indian immigrants from the US through Panama and Costa Rica saying, "The US has a bridge agreement with Panama, Costa Rica on sending illegal migrations."
He added that the Indian government is in touch with the Panama government.
<h2>Trump calls USAID funding to India a 'kickback scheme'</h2>
Meanwhile, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> voiced concerns about the funding allocation, calling it a kickback scheme. He added that nobody has any idea of what is going on there.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/national-layoff-trump-and-elon-musk-fire-over-20000-employees-from-us-federal-workforce-check-out-the-full-list-8742592" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'National layoff': Trump and Elon Musk fire over 20,000 employees from US federal workforce! Check out the full list</a>
Trump's comments came during his address at the Republican Governors Association (RGA) meeting. The US president also questioned $21 million for Bangladesh's political landscape and $19 million for Nepal's biodiversity.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-congress-over-alleged-foreign-funding-after-trumps-21-million-claim-8742586">'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</a>
Addressing the Republican Governors Association (RGA) meeting, Trump said, &ldquo;And USD 21 million for voter turnout in India. Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems. We want our own turnout, don't we? Can you imagine all that money going to India? I wonder what they think when they get it. Now, it's a kickback scheme.&nbsp;
"You know, it's not like they get it and they spend, they kick it back to the people that send it. I would say in many cases, many of these cases, anytime you have no idea what we're talking about, that means there's a kickback because nobody has any idea what's going on there. USD 29 million to strengthen the political landscape in Bangladesh. Nobody knows what they mean by the political landscape. What does that mean?&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump voiced concerns about the funding allocation, calling it a kickback scheme. He added that nobody has any idea of what is going on there. India news

Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'. "We have seen information that has been put out by the US administration regarding certain USA activities and funding. These are obviously very deeply troubling. This has led to concerns about foreign interference in India's internal affairs. Relevant departments and agencies are looking into this matter," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said "It would be premature to make a public comment at this stage, so relevant authorities are looking into it, and hopefully we can come up with an update on that subsequently," he added. Also read: WATCH | Kash Patel's Bollywood-style 'Malhari' welcome as FBI director; Trump's assistant posts viral video The ministry spokesperson also addresses the deportation of some Indian immigrants from the US through Panama and Costa Rica saying, "The US has a bridge agreement with Panama, Costa Rica on sending illegal migrations." He added that the Indian government is in touch with the Panama government. Trump calls USAID funding to India a 'kickback scheme' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump voiced concerns about the funding allocation, calling it a kickback scheme. He added that nobody has any idea of what is going on there. Also read: 'National layoff': Trump and Elon Musk fire over 20,000 employees from US federal workforce! Check out the full list Trump's comments came during his address at the Republican Governors Association (RGA) meeting. The US president also questioned $21 million for Bangladesh's political landscape and $19 million for Nepal's biodiversity. Also read: 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi Addressing the Republican Governors Association (RGA) meeting, Trump said, “And USD 21 million for voter turnout in India. Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems. We want our own turnout, don't we? Can you imagine all that money going to India? I wonder what they think when they get it. Now, it's a kickback scheme. "You know, it's not like they get it and they spend, they kick it back to the people that send it. I would say in many cases, many of these cases, anytime you have no idea what we're talking about, that means there's a kickback because nobody has any idea what's going on there. USD 29 million to strengthen the political landscape in Bangladesh. Nobody knows what they mean by the political landscape. What does that mean?” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim

From Tulsi Gabbard to Kash Patel, US President Donald Trump's administration features a number of high-profile names that brag an India connect. Since Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, New Delhi has taken a number of steps to improve the US-India relations. In what may be perceived as the Republican president's affection towards the South Asian nation and its Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his cabinet features multiple individuals, including Kashyap 'Kash' Patel - the first Indian-origin and openly Hindu person to be appointed as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director - that have their roots in India, or deep connection with Hindusim, like Gabbard.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-kash-patel-confirmed-as-fbi-director-donald-trump-senate-confirmation-vote-8741481">'You will regret this to your&nbsp;grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director</a>
<h2>Trump's cabinet:</h2>
Administrator of the Small Business Administration, Kelly Loeffler - confirmed&nbsp; Attorney General Pam Bondi - confirmed&nbsp; Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, John Ratcliffe - confirmed&nbsp; Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard - confirmed&nbsp; Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright - confirrmed&nbsp; Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F Kennedy, Jr - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Scott Turner - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Labor, Lori Chavez-DeRemer&nbsp; Secretary of State, Marco Rubio - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy - confirmed&nbsp; Secretary of the Treasury, Scott Bessent - confirmed&nbsp; United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Elise Stefanik United States Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer
Let's take a look at Donald Trump's 2.0 cabinet and its India connect:
<h2>Kash Patel's Indian values</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-us-for-a-2-day-visit-meets-us-intelligence-chief-tulsi-gabbard-8715830">PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard</a>
Patel recently won the hearts on the internet after he was seen touching the feets of his parents and embracing his Indian roots at his confirmation hearing to head the department on January 31. Speaking at the event, Patel greeted his parents with "Jai Shri Krishna", a gesture mostly used in the Indian state of Gujarat.&nbsp;
In the viral video circulated on social media, Patel said, "I'd like to welcome my father, Pramod, and my mother, Anjana, who is sitting here today. They travelled here from India. My sister, Nisha, is also here. She also travelled across the ocean just to be with me. It means the world that you guys are here. Jai Shri Krishna.&rdquo;
He has also voiced support for Ayodhya Ram Mandir, an important project of Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kash-patel-new-fbi-director-with-roots-in-india-everything-to-know-8742319">Kash Patel, the new FBI Director with roots in India. Everything to know</a>
The newly confirmed FBI director has long-been an advocate of the India-US ties and has been known to be vocal in support of Hindu sentiments.&nbsp;
During the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Patel spoke against the mainstream American media which presented the situation in the context of Hindu nationalism. He slammed the media outlets for ignoring the cultural and historical significance of the site.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-pam-bondi-trumps-next-attorney-general-778179">Who is Pam Bondi, Trump's next attorney general pick?</a>
<h2>Tulsi Gabbard's compassion for Hindus&nbsp;</h2>
Tulsi Gabbard is the first Hindu Congresswoman in the history of America. In 2021, Gabbard introduced a resolution in the US Congress for protection of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. She even slammed the Pakistan army for its atrocities against Hindus in 1971.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maga-miga-mega-pm-modi-shares-vision-for-indo-us-ties-8719313">MAGA + MIGA = 'MEGA': PM Modi shares vision for India-US ties</a>
<h2>Harmeet K Dhillon's support for Indian farmers&nbsp;</h2>
In 2020, Dillon showed her support for the protesting Indian farmers against the farm bill. Through a post on the microblogging site X, she urged the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "hear them" and meet the farmers. She shared the post with hashtag #IStandWithFarmers.
<h2>Sriram Krishnan - Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence (AI)</h2>
After his appointment as the Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Sriram Krishnan faced major backlash from several far-right Americans who accused him of removing all caps on green cards so foreign students can come to the United States and take up jobs that should instead go to Americans.
<h2>Jay Bhattacharya - Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH)</h2>
Jay Bhattacharya is an India-American scientist and economist who hails from the Indian state of West Bengal.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | INDIA NEWS | Kashyap 'Kash' Patel became the first Indian-origin and openly Hindu person to be appointed as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director on Thursday (Feb 20).

From Tulsi Gabbard to Kash Patel, US President Donald Trump's administration features a number of high-profile names that brag an India connect. Since Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, New Delhi has taken a number of steps to improve the US-India relations. In what may be perceived as the Republican president's affection towards the South Asian nation and its Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his cabinet features multiple individuals, including Kashyap 'Kash' Patel - the first Indian-origin and openly Hindu person to be appointed as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director - that have their roots in India, or deep connection with Hindusim, like Gabbard. Also read: 'You will regret this to your grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director Trump's cabinet: Administrator of the Small Business Administration, Kelly Loeffler - confirmed Attorney General Pam Bondi - confirmed Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, John Ratcliffe - confirmed Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard - confirmed Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought - confirmed Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins - confirmed Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick - confirmed Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth - confirmed Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright - confirrmed Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F Kennedy, Jr - confirmed Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem - confirmed Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Scott Turner - confirmed Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum - confirmed Secretary of Labor, Lori Chavez-DeRemer Secretary of State, Marco Rubio - confirmed Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins - confirmed Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy - confirmed Secretary of the Treasury, Scott Bessent - confirmed United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Elise Stefanik United States Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer Let's take a look at Donald Trump's 2.0 cabinet and its India connect: Kash Patel's Indian values Also read: PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard Patel recently won the hearts on the internet after he was seen touching the feets of his parents and embracing his Indian roots at his confirmation hearing to head the department on January 31. Speaking at the event, Patel greeted his parents with "Jai Shri Krishna", a gesture mostly used in the Indian state of Gujarat. In the viral video circulated on social media, Patel said, "I'd like to welcome my father, Pramod, and my mother, Anjana, who is sitting here today. They travelled here from India. My sister, Nisha, is also here. She also travelled across the ocean just to be with me. It means the world that you guys are here. Jai Shri Krishna.” He has also voiced support for Ayodhya Ram Mandir, an important project of Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Also read: Kash Patel, the new FBI Director with roots in India. Everything to know The newly confirmed FBI director has long-been an advocate of the India-US ties and has been known to be vocal in support of Hindu sentiments. During the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Patel spoke against the mainstream American media which presented the situation in the context of Hindu nationalism. He slammed the media outlets for ignoring the cultural and historical significance of the site. Also read: Who is Pam Bondi, Trump's next attorney general pick? Tulsi Gabbard's compassion for Hindus Tulsi Gabbard is the first Hindu Congresswoman in the history of America. In 2021, Gabbard introduced a resolution in the US Congress for protection of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. She even slammed the Pakistan army for its atrocities against Hindus in 1971. Also read: MAGA + MIGA = 'MEGA': PM Modi shares vision for India-US ties Harmeet K Dhillon's support for Indian farmers In 2020, Dillon showed her support for the protesting Indian farmers against the farm bill. Through a post on the microblogging site X, she urged the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "hear them" and meet the farmers. She shared the post with hashtag #IStandWithFarmers. Sriram Krishnan - Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence (AI) After his appointment as the Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Sriram Krishnan faced major backlash from several far-right Americans who accused him of removing all caps on green cards so foreign students can come to the United States and take up jobs that should instead go to Americans. Jay Bhattacharya - Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Jay Bhattacharya is an India-American scientist and economist who hails from the Indian state of West Bengal. (With inputs from agencies)

India connect of Team Trump: Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, several Indian-Americans hold key posts in Donald Trump's administration

The National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD) which tracks misconduct by US federal officers, was taken down by the US Justice Department just days into President Donald Trump's second term, suggest reports.
NLEAD, though created by former president Joe Biden's executive order, was actually the brainchild of Trump. The Republican proposed the creation of such a database in the aftermath of the George Floyd murder by Derek Michael Chauvin, an officer of the law, in June 2020.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-refuses-to-halt-trump-administrations-mass-layoffs-of-federal-employees-8742559">US judge refuses to halt Trump administration's mass layoff of federal employees</a>
<h2>What happened to the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database?</h2>
The decommissioning of the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database was first reported by the Washington Post.&nbsp;
According to the report, the database has been down since Jan 24, 2025 &mdash; mere days after Trump entered the White House. The discovery was made by Trevor Hugh Davis, a research scientist at the University of Notre Dame, who tracks disappearing government websites by analysing historical data. He first noticed that NLEAD was missing last week.
"We have lost countless records of disciplinary actions, terminations, complaints, and settlements related to police misconduct," said Davis, as per the WP report.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tone-it-down-us-security-adviser-urges-zelenskyy-as-tensions-escalate-with-trump-administration-8742761">&lsquo;Tone it down&rsquo;, US security adviser urges Zelenskyy as tensions escalate with Trump administration</a>
"Officers with serious misconduct histories often move between departments. Despite its limitations, it addressed a real problem &mdash; rehiring officers who had been fired or resigned for misconduct &hellip; its removal sends a clear message about the new administration's priorities," he alleged.
As per an announcement on a separate Justice Department website, the site is no longer active and "user agencies can no longer query or add data to the NLEAD."
"The US Department of Justice is decommissioning the NLEAD in accordance with federal standards," it adds.
<h2>'Wandering officer' phenomenon</h2>
As Davis said, officers with a history of misconduct often jump from one department to another. This is known as the "wandering officer" phenomenon and has been widely studied over the years. As per a study from Yale Law School, three per cent of active duty officers in Florida have been fired from another agency in the state.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-congress-over-alleged-foreign-funding-after-trumps-21-million-claim-8742586">'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</a>
The deletion of the federal database does not affect the National Decertification Index, a national registry of state and local police officers who have lost their certification or licensing because of misconduct. That database is operated by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, which declined to comment on the shutdown of the federal database.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World News | The NLEAD, designed to track federal officer misconduct, was decommissioned by the US Justice Department shortly after Trump's second term began.

The National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD) which tracks misconduct by US federal officers, was taken down by the US Justice Department just days into President Donald Trump's second term, suggest reports. NLEAD, though created by former president Joe Biden's executive order, was actually the brainchild of Trump. The Republican proposed the creation of such a database in the aftermath of the George Floyd murder by Derek Michael Chauvin, an officer of the law, in June 2020. Also read | US judge refuses to halt Trump administration's mass layoff of federal employees What happened to the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database? The decommissioning of the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database was first reported by the Washington Post. According to the report, the database has been down since Jan 24, 2025 — mere days after Trump entered the White House. The discovery was made by Trevor Hugh Davis, a research scientist at the University of Notre Dame, who tracks disappearing government websites by analysing historical data. He first noticed that NLEAD was missing last week. "We have lost countless records of disciplinary actions, terminations, complaints, and settlements related to police misconduct," said Davis, as per the WP report. Also read | ‘Tone it down’, US security adviser urges Zelenskyy as tensions escalate with Trump administration "Officers with serious misconduct histories often move between departments. Despite its limitations, it addressed a real problem — rehiring officers who had been fired or resigned for misconduct … its removal sends a clear message about the new administration's priorities," he alleged. As per an announcement on a separate Justice Department website, the site is no longer active and "user agencies can no longer query or add data to the NLEAD." "The US Department of Justice is decommissioning the NLEAD in accordance with federal standards," it adds. 'Wandering officer' phenomenon As Davis said, officers with a history of misconduct often jump from one department to another. This is known as the "wandering officer" phenomenon and has been widely studied over the years. As per a study from Yale Law School, three per cent of active duty officers in Florida have been fired from another agency in the state. Also read | 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi The deletion of the federal database does not affect the National Decertification Index, a national registry of state and local police officers who have lost their certification or licensing because of misconduct. That database is operated by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, which declined to comment on the shutdown of the federal database. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump shuts US database tracking police misconduct by officers like Chauvin who killed George Floyd

Donald Trump mused once again about absorbing Canada as the 51st US state, continuing the ribbing of the nation&rsquo;s northern neighbour that has infuriated many Canadians.
The US president joked that Canada can keep the &lsquo;O Canada&rsquo; anthem as the 51st US state while speaking at the Republican Governors Association meeting in Washington on Thursday (Feb 20).
Trump noted that Canadians booed the US national anthem ahead of an international hockey game in Montreal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tone-it-down-us-security-adviser-urges-zelenskyy-as-tensions-escalate-with-trump-administration-8742761">&lsquo;Tone it down&rsquo;, US security adviser urges Zelenskyy as tensions escalate with Trump administration</a>
&ldquo;I think ultimately they&rsquo;ll be praising the national anthem. We&rsquo;ll have to work out some deals ... because I do like the &lsquo;O Canada&rsquo; all right,&rdquo; Trump said, referring to the Canadian national anthem. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a beautiful thing. I think we&rsquo;re going to have to keep it for the 51st state.&rdquo;
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump calls for Canada to become "51st State"</h2>
On several occasions, President Donald Trump has called for Canada to become a US state, heightening tensions further with one of his country's closest allies after hitting it with heavy tariffs.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-congress-over-alleged-foreign-funding-after-trumps-21-million-claim-8742586">'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</a>
While claiming the United States pays "hundreds of billions of dollars to SUBSIDIZE Canada," apparently referring to the US trade deficit with its neighbour, Trump earlier said that "without this massive subsidy, Canada ceases to exist as a viable Country."
"Therefore, Canada should become our Cherished 51st State," he wrote on his Truth Social media platform, claiming the move would bring "much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the people of Canada - AND NO TARIFFS!"
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump reignites controversy with musings on Canada becoming the 51st US state, stirring strong reactions and increasing tensions with its northern neighbour.

Donald Trump mused once again about absorbing Canada as the 51st US state, continuing the ribbing of the nation’s northern neighbour that has infuriated many Canadians. The US president joked that Canada can keep the ‘O Canada’ anthem as the 51st US state while speaking at the Republican Governors Association meeting in Washington on Thursday (Feb 20). Trump noted that Canadians booed the US national anthem ahead of an international hockey game in Montreal. Also read | ‘Tone it down’, US security adviser urges Zelenskyy as tensions escalate with Trump administration “I think ultimately they’ll be praising the national anthem. We’ll have to work out some deals ... because I do like the ‘O Canada’ all right,” Trump said, referring to the Canadian national anthem. “It’s a beautiful thing. I think we’re going to have to keep it for the 51st state.” Trump calls for Canada to become "51st State" On several occasions, President Donald Trump has called for Canada to become a US state, heightening tensions further with one of his country's closest allies after hitting it with heavy tariffs. Also read | 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi While claiming the United States pays "hundreds of billions of dollars to SUBSIDIZE Canada," apparently referring to the US trade deficit with its neighbour, Trump earlier said that "without this massive subsidy, Canada ceases to exist as a viable Country." "Therefore, Canada should become our Cherished 51st State," he wrote on his Truth Social media platform, claiming the move would bring "much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the people of Canada - AND NO TARIFFS!" (With inputs from agencies)

Trump jokes about Canada joining Union, says, ‘Can keep ‘O Canada’ anthem as 51st US state’

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