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White House national security adviser Mike Waltz has weighed in on the ongoing spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Waltz advised Ukraine to "tone it down", urging it to &ldquo;take a hard look and sign that deal.&rdquo;
High-level talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia have drawn criticism from Ukraine and its European allies, as Ukraine wasn't involved. President Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine won't accept any agreements made without its input.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Trump's administration pushes Ukraine to accept minerals deal</h2>
Talks between the US and Russia, happening while Russia continues to attack Ukraine's infrastructure, have revealed increasing tension between Zelensky and Trump. Trump's administration is pushing Ukraine to accept a minerals deal, which would give the US access to Ukraine's valuable natural resources in exchange for economic support and security guarantees.
Speaking to Fox News,&nbsp; Waltz urged Ukraine to accept the minerals agreement, calling it a &ldquo;historic opportunity&rdquo; for investment and long-term security.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;Pushback from Ukraine on the deal and how Trump is carrying out peace talks is simply unacceptable&rdquo;, Waltz said but insisted that these differences of views could be reconciled as &ldquo;the president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people&rdquo;. Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted.
<h2 dir="ltr">Zelensky bats for &lsquo;strong ties&rsquo; with US&nbsp;</h2>
Zelensky said on Thursday that Ukraine was ready to work quickly and tirelessly to produce a strong and useful agreement on investments and security with the United States.
The statement comes amid rising tensions between Zelensky and Trump, with the two trading barbs on Wednesday.
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"We must and can ensure that peace is strong and lasting&mdash;so that Russia can never return with war," Zelensky wrote on X on Thursday after meeting US envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg.
&nbsp;"Ukraine is ready for a strong, effective investment and security agreement with the President of the United States. We have proposed the fastest and most constructive way to achieve results. Our team is ready to work 24/7," he added.
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump calls Zelensky a &ldquo;dictator without elections&rdquo;</h2>
A few days back, Trump called Zelensky &ldquo;A Dictator without Elections!!&rdquo; Notably, due to the war, Ukraine did delay elections that were scheduled for April 2024. Trump also suggested that Ukraine was to blame for the war.
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This came just hours after Zelensky accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" earlier on Wednesday, accusing him of making attempts to overthrow him from power.
"He refuses to have Elections, is very low in Ukrainian Polls, and the only thing he was good at was playing Biden 'like a fiddle'. A Dictator without Elections, Zelensky better move fast, or he is not going to have a Country left," Trump posted on social media.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has delayed elections that were scheduled for April 2024.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: National security adviser Mike Waltz comments on the Trump-Zelensky tension, advising Ukraine to be cautious and consider signing the proposed agreement for resolution.

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz has weighed in on the ongoing spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Waltz advised Ukraine to "tone it down", urging it to “take a hard look and sign that deal.” High-level talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia have drawn criticism from Ukraine and its European allies, as Ukraine wasn't involved. President Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine won't accept any agreements made without its input. Also read | 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi Trump's administration pushes Ukraine to accept minerals deal Talks between the US and Russia, happening while Russia continues to attack Ukraine's infrastructure, have revealed increasing tension between Zelensky and Trump. Trump's administration is pushing Ukraine to accept a minerals deal, which would give the US access to Ukraine's valuable natural resources in exchange for economic support and security guarantees. Speaking to Fox News, Waltz urged Ukraine to accept the minerals agreement, calling it a “historic opportunity” for investment and long-term security. Also read | Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57% Americans say he overstepped authority “Pushback from Ukraine on the deal and how Trump is carrying out peace talks is simply unacceptable”, Waltz said but insisted that these differences of views could be reconciled as “the president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people”. Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted. Zelensky bats for ‘strong ties’ with US Zelensky said on Thursday that Ukraine was ready to work quickly and tirelessly to produce a strong and useful agreement on investments and security with the United States. The statement comes amid rising tensions between Zelensky and Trump, with the two trading barbs on Wednesday. Also read | Kash Patel, the new FBI Director with roots in India. Everything to know "We must and can ensure that peace is strong and lasting—so that Russia can never return with war," Zelensky wrote on X on Thursday after meeting US envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg. "Ukraine is ready for a strong, effective investment and security agreement with the President of the United States. We have proposed the fastest and most constructive way to achieve results. Our team is ready to work 24/7," he added. Trump calls Zelensky a “dictator without elections” A few days back, Trump called Zelensky “A Dictator without Elections!!” Notably, due to the war, Ukraine did delay elections that were scheduled for April 2024. Trump also suggested that Ukraine was to blame for the war. Also read | KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students This came just hours after Zelensky accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble" earlier on Wednesday, accusing him of making attempts to overthrow him from power. "He refuses to have Elections, is very low in Ukrainian Polls, and the only thing he was good at was playing Biden 'like a fiddle'. A Dictator without Elections, Zelensky better move fast, or he is not going to have a Country left," Trump posted on social media. Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has delayed elections that were scheduled for April 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Tone it down’, US security adviser urges Zelensky as tensions escalate with Trump administration

Doctors in Britain have become the first in the world to cure blindness in children born with a rare genetic condition called leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). London doctors are using a pioneering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/one-blood-group-makes-people-age-more-slowly-8707005">gene therapy</a> for the treatment of such children.&nbsp;
LCA is a severe form of retinal dystrophy that causes blindness due to a defect in the AIPL1 gene (Aryl-hydrocarbon-interacting protein-like 1). People affected by this condition are termed as blind from birth.&nbsp;
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Four such children were cured of such blindness after doctors injected healthy copies of the AIPL1 gene with keyhole surgery which took just an hour. The healthy copies of the gene contained a harmless virus which got injected into the retina. The children can now see shapes, find toys, recognise their parents&rsquo; faces, and in some cases, even read and write.&nbsp;
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<h2>'Hugely impressive'</h2>
Prof Michel Michaelides, a consultant retinal specialist at Moorfields Eye Hospital and professor of ophthalmology at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology called the results of surgery "hugely impressive". He said that the results show the power of gene therapy which can "change lives".&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have, for the first time, an effective treatment for the most severe form of childhood blindness, and a potential paradigm shift to treatment at the earliest stages of the disease," he told The Guardian.&nbsp;
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The four children treated, all aged between one and two, are from the US, Turkey and Tunisia. They were selected for the procedure by specialists from Moorfields and UCL in 2020. Their surgery was carried out at London&rsquo;s Great Ormond Street Hospital. They were observed for five years and the results were published in the Lancet journal. The therapy was done in only one eye of each patient to avoid any potential safety threat.&nbsp;
<h2>Children born with LCA</h2>
Prof James Bainbridge, consultant retinal surgeon at Moorfields and professor of retinal studies at UCL Institute of Ophthalmology said that the children born with LCA can only distinguish between light and dark and whatever little sight they possess, they lose it within a few years of birth.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;Some children are even able to read and write following the intervention which is something that one would absolutely not expect in this condition, untreated," he told the British newspaper.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | Trending | SCIENCE & TECH | LCA is a severe form of retinal dystrophy that causes blindness due to a defect in the AIPL1 gene (Aryl-hydrocarbon-interacting protein-like 1). People affected by this condition are termed as blind from birth.

Doctors in Britain have become the first in the world to cure blindness in children born with a rare genetic condition called leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). London doctors are using a pioneering gene therapy for the treatment of such children. LCA is a severe form of retinal dystrophy that causes blindness due to a defect in the AIPL1 gene (Aryl-hydrocarbon-interacting protein-like 1). People affected by this condition are termed as blind from birth. Also read: This country became the first in the world to give legal rights to wild animals Four such children were cured of such blindness after doctors injected healthy copies of the AIPL1 gene with keyhole surgery which took just an hour. The healthy copies of the gene contained a harmless virus which got injected into the retina. The children can now see shapes, find toys, recognise their parents’ faces, and in some cases, even read and write. Also read: Scientists detect colour blindness in jumping spiders 'Hugely impressive' Prof Michel Michaelides, a consultant retinal specialist at Moorfields Eye Hospital and professor of ophthalmology at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology called the results of surgery "hugely impressive". He said that the results show the power of gene therapy which can "change lives". “We have, for the first time, an effective treatment for the most severe form of childhood blindness, and a potential paradigm shift to treatment at the earliest stages of the disease," he told The Guardian. Also read: A cure for blindness developed in space? That might soon become true The four children treated, all aged between one and two, are from the US, Turkey and Tunisia. They were selected for the procedure by specialists from Moorfields and UCL in 2020. Their surgery was carried out at London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital. They were observed for five years and the results were published in the Lancet journal. The therapy was done in only one eye of each patient to avoid any potential safety threat. Children born with LCA Prof James Bainbridge, consultant retinal surgeon at Moorfields and professor of retinal studies at UCL Institute of Ophthalmology said that the children born with LCA can only distinguish between light and dark and whatever little sight they possess, they lose it within a few years of birth. Also read: Air pollution may result in irreversible blindness, study says “Some children are even able to read and write following the intervention which is something that one would absolutely not expect in this condition, untreated," he told the British newspaper. (With inputs from agencies)

'First in the world': London doctors cure blindness in children born with a genetic condition

The Vatican reported another slight improvement in Pope Francis's condition on Thursday, as the 88-year-old spent his seventh day in hospital being treated for double pneumonia.
The Argentine pontiff was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Friday with bronchitis, but it later developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking widespread alarm.
"The clinical conditions of the Holy Father are slightly improving," the Vatican said in its regular early evening update on Thursday.
"He is apyretic (without fever) and his hemodynamic (blood flow) parameters continue to be stable.
"This morning he received the Eucharist and subsequently devoted himself to his work activities."
The Vatican had a similar message on Wednesday evening, when it said blood tests had also shown a "slight improvement".
Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, head of Italy's bishops conference, had earlier said the pontiff was "on the right path".
"We are all worried about the pope," Zuppi, who has not visited Francis, told reporters.
"The fact that the pope had breakfast, read the newspapers, received people, means that we are on the right path to a full recovery, which we hope will happen soon".
<h2><hl2>Angelus uncertain</hl2></h2>
On Thursday morning, the Vatican said Francis had spent a peaceful night in hospital, "got up and had breakfast in his armchair".
Vatican sources said that despite his illness, the Jesuit was still trying to work, reading and signing documents, writing, speaking with colleagues and keeping up with the news.
Francis had enough energy on Wednesday to receive Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for a 20-minute visit at the Gemelli's special papal suite.
She later described him as "alert and responsive", saying in a statement: "We joked as always. He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humour."
The pope has already cancelled his appointments on his calendar this week, including a Saturday audience and Sunday mass at St Peter's Basilica.
But it was still not clear whether the pope would give the traditional Angelus prayer at midday (1100 GMT) on Sunday.
Francis missed it last Sunday, but has delivered it from the Gemelli balcony during his previous spells at the hospital.
"We still don't know how it will work," said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni.
<h2><hl2>Heart 'holding up'</hl2></h2>
The double-pneumonia diagnosis for the pope comes after a series of health issues in recent years: from colon and hernia surgery to problems walking and pain in his hip and knee.
The Vatican has been issuing regular updates, however banal, in a bid to counter widespread speculation -- particularly online -- that he is dying or even dead.
A Vatican source had also Wednesday said the pope was "breathing on his own. His heart is holding up very well".
The pope, who has been head of the Catholic Church since 2013, keeps a full schedule despite his age and ailments, and this year is busy with celebrations of the holy Jubilee year.
But in the days before his hospital admission, he was struggling to read his homilies.
The pontiff -- whose birth name is Jorge Bergoglio -- had part of his right lung cut away when he was 21, after developing pleurisy that almost killed him.
In St Peter's Square on Thursday, Romanian tourist Suzanna Munteanu told AFP she worried over Francis's health but was "confident that he will make it.
"I love this pope... Pope Bergoglio, very much, and he's very dear to me, especially that he cares for the poor people, and I do hope he will recover very soon," she added.
<h2><hl2>'Uncertainty'&nbsp;</hl2></h2>
The pope has left open the option of resigning were he to become unable to carry out his duties, as his predecessor, Benedict XVI, did.
And while he has insisted recently that quitting is only a "distant possibility", his hospitalisation again revives questions about his ability to fulfil his role.
Francois Mabille, a researcher at French think tank IRIS and director of the Geopolitical Observatory of Religion, said this could be damaging.
"We have a pope who is both sick, suffering, but who is alive, who can speak," he told AFP.
"There is an uncertainty that weakens the pope and the Holy See."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The Vatican reported another slight improvement in Pope Francis's condition on Thursday, as the 88-year-old spent his seventh day in hospital being treated for double pneumonia.

The Vatican reported another slight improvement in Pope Francis's condition on Thursday, as the 88-year-old spent his seventh day in hospital being treated for double pneumonia. The Argentine pontiff was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Friday with bronchitis, but it later developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking widespread alarm. "The clinical conditions of the Holy Father are slightly improving," the Vatican said in its regular early evening update on Thursday. "He is apyretic (without fever) and his hemodynamic (blood flow) parameters continue to be stable. "This morning he received the Eucharist and subsequently devoted himself to his work activities." The Vatican had a similar message on Wednesday evening, when it said blood tests had also shown a "slight improvement". Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, head of Italy's bishops conference, had earlier said the pontiff was "on the right path". "We are all worried about the pope," Zuppi, who has not visited Francis, told reporters. "The fact that the pope had breakfast, read the newspapers, received people, means that we are on the right path to a full recovery, which we hope will happen soon". Angelus uncertain On Thursday morning, the Vatican said Francis had spent a peaceful night in hospital, "got up and had breakfast in his armchair". Vatican sources said that despite his illness, the Jesuit was still trying to work, reading and signing documents, writing, speaking with colleagues and keeping up with the news. Francis had enough energy on Wednesday to receive Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for a 20-minute visit at the Gemelli's special papal suite. She later described him as "alert and responsive", saying in a statement: "We joked as always. He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humour." The pope has already cancelled his appointments on his calendar this week, including a Saturday audience and Sunday mass at St Peter's Basilica. But it was still not clear whether the pope would give the traditional Angelus prayer at midday (1100 GMT) on Sunday. Francis missed it last Sunday, but has delivered it from the Gemelli balcony during his previous spells at the hospital. "We still don't know how it will work," said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni. Heart 'holding up' The double-pneumonia diagnosis for the pope comes after a series of health issues in recent years: from colon and hernia surgery to problems walking and pain in his hip and knee. The Vatican has been issuing regular updates, however banal, in a bid to counter widespread speculation -- particularly online -- that he is dying or even dead. A Vatican source had also Wednesday said the pope was "breathing on his own. His heart is holding up very well". The pope, who has been head of the Catholic Church since 2013, keeps a full schedule despite his age and ailments, and this year is busy with celebrations of the holy Jubilee year. But in the days before his hospital admission, he was struggling to read his homilies. The pontiff -- whose birth name is Jorge Bergoglio -- had part of his right lung cut away when he was 21, after developing pleurisy that almost killed him. In St Peter's Square on Thursday, Romanian tourist Suzanna Munteanu told AFP she worried over Francis's health but was "confident that he will make it. "I love this pope... Pope Bergoglio, very much, and he's very dear to me, especially that he cares for the poor people, and I do hope he will recover very soon," she added. 'Uncertainty' The pope has left open the option of resigning were he to become unable to carry out his duties, as his predecessor, Benedict XVI, did. And while he has insisted recently that quitting is only a "distant possibility", his hospitalisation again revives questions about his ability to fulfil his role. Francois Mabille, a researcher at French think tank IRIS and director of the Geopolitical Observatory of Religion, said this could be damaging. "We have a pope who is both sick, suffering, but who is alive, who can speak," he told AFP. "There is an uncertainty that weakens the pope and the Holy See." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pope Francis's condition shows 'slight improvement' on seventh day in hospital

Donald Trump administration's mass layoffs on Thursday (Feb 20) escaped restrictions as a federal judge rejected a bid by labour unions to block them.
US District Judge Christopher R. Cooper in his ruling said that while he was sympathetic to the plight of the National Treasury Employees Union and the four other unions, the federal court was not the appropriate venue for their lawsuit.
<h2>Court denies union's motion</h2>
In his order, Judge Cooper wrote, "NTEU fails to establish that it is likely to succeed on the merits because this Court likely lacks subject matter jurisdiction over the claims it asserts."
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"The Court will therefore deny the unions&rsquo; motion for a temporary restraining order and, for the same reasons, deny their request for a preliminary injunction," Cooper wrote in his order."
This ruling comes as unions seek to block Trump's order to fire thousands of probationary employees for "large-scale reductions" in the federal workforce.&nbsp;
Cooper said that the claims seeking restrictions on Trump's Feb 11 executive order should go to the Federal Labour Relations Authority, which handles federal labour disputes. He also noted that the claims heard there can be "followed by judicial review in the courts of appeals."
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<h2>Judge sympathises with Trump administration "chaos"</h2>
"The first month of President Trump&rsquo;s second administration has been defined by an onslaught of executive actions that have caused, some say by design, disruption and even chaos in widespread quarters of American society. Affected citizens and their advocates have challenged many of these actions on an emergency basis in this Court and others across the country," wrote the judge in his 16-page ruling.
"Certain of the President&rsquo;s actions have been temporarily halted; others have been permitted to proceed, at least for the time being."
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"These mixed results should surprise no one. Federal district judges are duty-bound to decide legal issues based on even-handed application of law and precedent&mdash;no matter the identity of the litigants or, regrettably at times, the consequences of their rulings for average people."
In the one month since coming to power, the Trump 2.0 administration's mass firings have impacted thousands. As per NBC, 3,000 people at the US Forest Service have been fired, along with over 1,000 at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Homeland Security, the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration have also been hit by layoffs.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | A federal judge has denied a motion by labour unions to halt the Trump administration's mass layoffs of federal employees, citing jurisdictional issues in the case.

Donald Trump administration's mass layoffs on Thursday (Feb 20) escaped restrictions as a federal judge rejected a bid by labour unions to block them. US District Judge Christopher R. Cooper in his ruling said that while he was sympathetic to the plight of the National Treasury Employees Union and the four other unions, the federal court was not the appropriate venue for their lawsuit. Court denies union's motion In his order, Judge Cooper wrote, "NTEU fails to establish that it is likely to succeed on the merits because this Court likely lacks subject matter jurisdiction over the claims it asserts." Also read | US Court refuses to block Elon Musk, DOGE from accessing data, firing workers "The Court will therefore deny the unions’ motion for a temporary restraining order and, for the same reasons, deny their request for a preliminary injunction," Cooper wrote in his order." This ruling comes as unions seek to block Trump's order to fire thousands of probationary employees for "large-scale reductions" in the federal workforce. Cooper said that the claims seeking restrictions on Trump's Feb 11 executive order should go to the Federal Labour Relations Authority, which handles federal labour disputes. He also noted that the claims heard there can be "followed by judicial review in the courts of appeals." Also read | ‘I love it’: Trump backs idea of sending some savings from DOGE back to US citizens Judge sympathises with Trump administration "chaos" "The first month of President Trump’s second administration has been defined by an onslaught of executive actions that have caused, some say by design, disruption and even chaos in widespread quarters of American society. Affected citizens and their advocates have challenged many of these actions on an emergency basis in this Court and others across the country," wrote the judge in his 16-page ruling. "Certain of the President’s actions have been temporarily halted; others have been permitted to proceed, at least for the time being." Also read | Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57 pc of Americans say he’s overstepped authority "These mixed results should surprise no one. Federal district judges are duty-bound to decide legal issues based on even-handed application of law and precedent—no matter the identity of the litigants or, regrettably at times, the consequences of their rulings for average people." In the one month since coming to power, the Trump 2.0 administration's mass firings have impacted thousands. As per NBC, 3,000 people at the US Forest Service have been fired, along with over 1,000 at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Homeland Security, the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration have also been hit by layoffs. (With inputs from agencies)

US judge refuses to halt Trump administration's mass layoff of federal employees

President Donald Trump has kicked off his second term with a series of bold actions aimed at significantly reducing the federal bureaucracy. However, Americans have mixed reactions to his initiatives, with many expressing negative views.&nbsp;
A recent Washington Post-Ipsos poll revealed that 57 per cent of respondents believe Trump has 'overstepped his authority' since taking office.
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<h2 dir="ltr">43 per cent of Americans support Trump&rsquo;s actions</h2>
Overall, 43 per cent of Americans say they support what the president has done during his first month in office, with 48 per cent saying they oppose. Those who strongly oppose outnumber those who strongly support, by 37 per cent to 27 per cent.
"The president's supporters applaud him for deporting undocumented immigrants and cutting government waste. Those unhappy with the direction he is taking the country say they fear Trump is allowing billionaire Elon Musk to dismantle critical government programs," noted the newspaper in its report about the poll.
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The poll also added that almost nine in 10 Republicans support his actions, while nine in 10 Democrats oppose them. Among independents, about one in 3 support what he's done, and half oppose. The remainder are unsure whether they support or oppose what is taking place.
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump&rsquo;s executive orders in first 100 days</h2>
Trump signed more executive orders in his first 10 days than any recent president has in their first 100 days. These orders encompass a wide range, including:
Trade Policies: Tariffs imposed on Mexico, China, and Canada.
Foreign Aid and Immigration: Pauses on foreign aid and stricter measures against illegal immigration.
Social Policies: Bans on transgender individuals serving in the military and restrictions on federal funding for gender-affirming medical care for minors.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: President Trump's second term begins with decisive efforts to streamline federal operations, stirring a range of public opinions and sparking considerable debate.

President Donald Trump has kicked off his second term with a series of bold actions aimed at significantly reducing the federal bureaucracy. However, Americans have mixed reactions to his initiatives, with many expressing negative views. A recent Washington Post-Ipsos poll revealed that 57 per cent of respondents believe Trump has 'overstepped his authority' since taking office. Also read | Kash Patel: New FBI Director with roots in India. Everything to know 43 per cent of Americans support Trump’s actions Overall, 43 per cent of Americans say they support what the president has done during his first month in office, with 48 per cent saying they oppose. Those who strongly oppose outnumber those who strongly support, by 37 per cent to 27 per cent. "The president's supporters applaud him for deporting undocumented immigrants and cutting government waste. Those unhappy with the direction he is taking the country say they fear Trump is allowing billionaire Elon Musk to dismantle critical government programs," noted the newspaper in its report about the poll. Also read | Elon Musk's child is in medical crisis? Ex-partner Grimes accused DOGE chief 'not responding' to calls The poll also added that almost nine in 10 Republicans support his actions, while nine in 10 Democrats oppose them. Among independents, about one in 3 support what he's done, and half oppose. The remainder are unsure whether they support or oppose what is taking place. Trump’s executive orders in first 100 days Trump signed more executive orders in his first 10 days than any recent president has in their first 100 days. These orders encompass a wide range, including: Trade Policies: Tariffs imposed on Mexico, China, and Canada. Foreign Aid and Immigration: Pauses on foreign aid and stricter measures against illegal immigration. Social Policies: Bans on transgender individuals serving in the military and restrictions on federal funding for gender-affirming medical care for minors. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57% Americans say he overstepped authority

US President Donald Trump officially commissioned Indian-origin Kash Patel as the ninth director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Thursday (Feb 20). Patel's appointment follows a narrow confirmation vote in the US Senate, where he secured 51 votes in favour and 49 against.&nbsp;
As the youngest and first Asian-American to hold the position, Patel's confirmation marks a significant milestone. Prior to his appointment, Patel served as a senior aide to congressman Devin Nunes and worked in various roles within the Trump administration, including as chief of staff to the acting US Secretary of Defense.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-child-is-in-medical-crisis-ex-partner-grimes-accused-doge-chief-not-responding-to-calls-8742135">Elon Musk's child is in medical crisis? Ex-partner Grimes accused DOGE chief 'not responding' to calls</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Who is Kash Patel?</h2>
Kash Patel was born to Gujarati parents in New York on February 25, 1980, in Garden City. He went on to graduate from the University of Richmond and later earned a Juris Doctor from Pace University School of Law.
Kash Patel started his career as a public defender, handling a wide range of cases, including murder, narcotics trafficking, and complex financial crimes, in both state and federal courts through jury trials.
Born and raised in the US, Patel has often spoken about his Indian heritage and how it shaped his values and career.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-israels-bat-yam-hit-by-multiple-bus-explosions-kiit-suicide-case-updates-and-more-8742121">Morning news brief: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions; KIIT suicide case updates and more</a>
Kash Patel's professional career has centred around US national security, intelligence, and law enforcement, despite his strong ancestral ties to India.
The 45-year-old lawyer of Indian origin has held several high-profile positions, including deputy assistant to the President and senior director for counterterrorism at the National Security Council (NSC).
According to the US Defence Department, during this time, Patel was responsible for missions working towards &ldquo;eliminating ISIS and Al-Qa&rsquo;ida leadership such as al-Baghdadi and Qasem al-Rimi, and the safe repatriation of numerous American hostages".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50000-employees-of-us-defense-department-could-be-laid-off-in-trump-musk-efforts-to-cut-federal-cost-report-8741987">Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">President Trump signs commission</h2>
Dan Scavino, Assistant to the President and White House Deputy Chief of Staff said that US President Donald Trump has officially signed the commission to confirm Kash Patel as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Sharing a post on X, Dan Scavino, Assistant to the President and White House Deputy Chief of Staff, wrote, "Moments ago in the Oval Office. Congratulations to the Ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel. President Trump has officially signed the commission. Follow Kash on his new X account: @FBIDirectorKash."
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: US President Donald Trump appointed Kash Patel of Indian origin as the ninth FBI director after a tight Senate confirmation.

US President Donald Trump officially commissioned Indian-origin Kash Patel as the ninth director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Thursday (Feb 20). Patel's appointment follows a narrow confirmation vote in the US Senate, where he secured 51 votes in favour and 49 against. As the youngest and first Asian-American to hold the position, Patel's confirmation marks a significant milestone. Prior to his appointment, Patel served as a senior aide to congressman Devin Nunes and worked in various roles within the Trump administration, including as chief of staff to the acting US Secretary of Defense. Also read | Elon Musk's child is in medical crisis? Ex-partner Grimes accused DOGE chief 'not responding' to calls Who is Kash Patel? Kash Patel was born to Gujarati parents in New York on February 25, 1980, in Garden City. He went on to graduate from the University of Richmond and later earned a Juris Doctor from Pace University School of Law. Kash Patel started his career as a public defender, handling a wide range of cases, including murder, narcotics trafficking, and complex financial crimes, in both state and federal courts through jury trials. Born and raised in the US, Patel has often spoken about his Indian heritage and how it shaped his values and career. Also read | Morning news brief: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions; KIIT suicide case updates and more Kash Patel's professional career has centred around US national security, intelligence, and law enforcement, despite his strong ancestral ties to India. The 45-year-old lawyer of Indian origin has held several high-profile positions, including deputy assistant to the President and senior director for counterterrorism at the National Security Council (NSC). According to the US Defence Department, during this time, Patel was responsible for missions working towards “eliminating ISIS and Al-Qa’ida leadership such as al-Baghdadi and Qasem al-Rimi, and the safe repatriation of numerous American hostages". Also read | Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report President Trump signs commission Dan Scavino, Assistant to the President and White House Deputy Chief of Staff said that US President Donald Trump has officially signed the commission to confirm Kash Patel as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Sharing a post on X, Dan Scavino, Assistant to the President and White House Deputy Chief of Staff, wrote, "Moments ago in the Oval Office. Congratulations to the Ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel. President Trump has officially signed the commission. Follow Kash on his new X account: @FBIDirectorKash." (With inputs from agencies)

Kash Patel, the new FBI Director with roots in India. Everything to know

Elon Musk's former partner and Canadian singer Grimes has publicly slammed the father of her three children, saying that he has not been answering her calls while one of her kids has been struggling with a mysterious "medical crisis".
In a now-deleted post on the social media platform X, owned by Musk, Grimes wrote, "Plz respond about our child's medical crisis. I am sorry to do this publicly but it is no longer acceptable to ignore this situation. This requires immediate attention. If you don&rsquo;t want to talk to me can you please designate or hire someone who can do that we can move forward on solving this. This is urgent, Elon.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50000-employees-of-us-defense-department-could-be-laid-off-in-trump-musk-efforts-to-cut-federal-cost-report-8741987">Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report</a>
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not giving any details but he won&rsquo;t respond to texts call or emails and has skipped every meeting and our child will suffer life long impairment if he doesn&rsquo;t respond asap, so I need him to f&ndash;king respond and if I have to apply public pressure then I guess that&rsquo;s where we are at,&rdquo; she further added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7efwoxu-w90w6wvx-wjebeuw7">
grimes is deleting her tweets now, but this can't be scrubbed from the internet. people need to be aware what kind of person <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> truly is. how can u make excuses for this? please try, go ahead, I'll wait <a href="https://t.co/fYkKBuQtXc">pic.twitter.com/fYkKBuQtXc</a>
&mdash; tara (@weirdotara) <a href="https://twitter.com/weirdotara/status/1892707876197576741?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
She deleted the posts just two hours later due to being shadow-banned. She put up another post before deleting the previous ones in which she said, "I am deleting them now because if they're being shadow banned and not eliciting a response then all it is a media crisis at the expense of the kids."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7efx4h6-e7z9tdhj-n8d2b22b">
I am deleting them now because if they're being shadow banned and not eliciting a response then all it is is a media circus at the expense of the kids.
&mdash; 𝖦𝗋𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗌 ⏳ (@Grimezsz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Grimezsz/status/1892717802219315485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-biden-leave-nasa-astronauts-in-space-for-political-reasons-musk-trump-claim-in-joint-interview-8737043">Did Biden leave NASA astronauts in space for 'political reasons'? Musk, Trump claim in joint interview</a>
Grimes and Musk share three kids together - X &AElig; A-Xii, 4, Techno Mechanicus, 2, and daughter Exa Dark Sider&aelig;l, 3.
The latest conflict came days after Grimes expressed her objection to taking their 4-year-old son X to a press briefing in the White House on February 11.
"He should not be in public like this. I did not see this, thank u for alerting me. But I&rsquo;m glad he was polite. Sigh," Grimes said.&nbsp;
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">&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 has a 13th child?&nbsp;</h2>
The latest allegation by Grimes came after an influencer Ashley St Clair claimed on February 14 that she is the mother of Musk's 13th child.
&ldquo;Five months ago, I welcomed a new baby into the world. Elon Musk is the father,&rdquo; she wrote.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-releases-video-of-shackled-deportees-elon-musks-reaction-sparks-condemnation-8736268">White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation</a>
&ldquo;I have not previously disclosed this to protect our child&rsquo;s privacy and safety, but in recent days it has become clear that tabloid media intends to do so, regardless of the harm it will cause," she added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | In a now-deleted post on the social media platform X, owned by Musk, Grimes wrote, "Plz respond about our child's medical crisis. I am sorry to do this publicly but it is no longer acceptable to ignore this situation."

Elon Musk's former partner and Canadian singer Grimes has publicly slammed the father of her three children, saying that he has not been answering her calls while one of her kids has been struggling with a mysterious "medical crisis". In a now-deleted post on the social media platform X, owned by Musk, Grimes wrote, "Plz respond about our child's medical crisis. I am sorry to do this publicly but it is no longer acceptable to ignore this situation. This requires immediate attention. If you don’t want to talk to me can you please designate or hire someone who can do that we can move forward on solving this. This is urgent, Elon.” Also read: Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report “I’m not giving any details but he won’t respond to texts call or emails and has skipped every meeting and our child will suffer life long impairment if he doesn’t respond asap, so I need him to f–king respond and if I have to apply public pressure then I guess that’s where we are at,” she further added. grimes is deleting her tweets now, but this can't be scrubbed from the internet. people need to be aware what kind of person @elonmusk truly is. how can u make excuses for this? please try, go ahead, I'll wait pic.twitter.com/fYkKBuQtXc — tara (@weirdotara) February 20, 2025 She deleted the posts just two hours later due to being shadow-banned. She put up another post before deleting the previous ones in which she said, "I am deleting them now because if they're being shadow banned and not eliciting a response then all it is a media crisis at the expense of the kids." I am deleting them now because if they're being shadow banned and not eliciting a response then all it is is a media circus at the expense of the kids. — 𝖦𝗋𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗌 ⏳ (@Grimezsz) February 20, 2025 Also read: Did Biden leave NASA astronauts in space for 'political reasons'? Musk, Trump claim in joint interview Grimes and Musk share three kids together - X Æ A-Xii, 4, Techno Mechanicus, 2, and daughter Exa Dark Sideræl, 3. The latest conflict came days after Grimes expressed her objection to taking their 4-year-old son X to a press briefing in the White House on February 11. "He should not be in public like this. I did not see this, thank u for alerting me. But I’m glad he was polite. Sigh," Grimes said. Also read: ‘They dress in T-shirts’: Trump mocks ‘genius’ DOGE staffers who dress ‘worse than Elon Musk’ Musk has a 13th child? The latest allegation by Grimes came after an influencer Ashley St Clair claimed on February 14 that she is the mother of Musk's 13th child. “Five months ago, I welcomed a new baby into the world. Elon Musk is the father,” she wrote. Also read: White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation “I have not previously disclosed this to protect our child’s privacy and safety, but in recent days it has become clear that tabloid media intends to do so, regardless of the harm it will cause," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Grimes claims Musk ignoring her calls while one of her children battles a 'medical crisis'

Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack".
In other news, Israel on Thursday said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas.
Meanwhile, the police on Thursday arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-bat-yam-hit-by-multiple-bus-explosions-in-suspected-terrorist-attack-8742042">Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/3oZQC7U2I3AyuTHIwiCx.png" alt=" Security forces and bomb disposal units are deployed to the scene of a bus explosion in Bat Yam on February 20, 2025. Israeli police said that bombs on three buses exploded in the central city of Bat Yam on February 20, 2025 evening, with a local official saying there were no injuries. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In a statement, the nation's Defence Minister Israel Katz accused "Palestinian terrorist organisations" of triggering the blasts as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was set to hold a security meeting.
<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>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/Cx4VsTxmdimETOHEK5ss.png" alt=" People carry a placard bearing the pictures of Oded Lifshitz and members of the Bibas family, hours after the Palestinian group Hamas handed over the bodies of who it said were those of the four hostages, on February 20, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Israel on Thursday (Feb 20) said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas while accusing Palestinian militants of killing her two young sons &mdash; the youngest hostages taken on Oct 7&mdash; in captivity.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kiit-suicide-five-more-arrested-for-allegedly-assaulting-nepalese-students-8741974">KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/19/O6oOkC3iKmuypj7rqPT4.jpg" alt=" KIIT University campus Photograph: (X@KIITUniversity) ">
The police on Thursday (Feb 20) arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students who were leaving their hostel as instructed by college authorities.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50000-employees-of-us-defense-department-could-be-laid-off-in-trump-musk-efforts-to-cut-federal-cost-report-8741987">Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/ViHjdYd2g4YF3U5x2W4x.png" alt=" A federal judge in the United State (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration for mass firing of probationary federal workers. Photograph: (AFP) ">
A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration for mass firing of probationary federal workers. As many as 50,000 people (probationary civilian employees) across the Defence Department could be impacted by this decision. The firings are expected to begin as early as Friday (Feb 21).
Watch | White house warns Ukraine to stop pushback on minerals deal
<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/2102_WION_PRESSER_830AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2102_WION_PRESSER_830AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=133&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="White house warns Ukraine to stop pushback on minerals deal" id="PL_iframe_block-m7e9ognz-cnarfet4-jyt49tqd"></iframe>
&nbsp;

Kickstart your morning with WION's concise news brief, bringing you the latest headlines and updates to keep you informed and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In other news, Israel on Thursday said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas. Meanwhile, the police on Thursday arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students. Click on the headlines for more Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack' Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In a statement, the nation's Defence Minister Israel Katz accused "Palestinian terrorist organisations" of triggering the blasts as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was set to hold a security meeting. Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing Israel on Thursday (Feb 20) said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas while accusing Palestinian militants of killing her two young sons — the youngest hostages taken on Oct 7— in captivity. KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students The police on Thursday (Feb 20) arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students who were leaving their hostel as instructed by college authorities. Over 50,000 employees of US defense department could be laid off in Trump-Musk efforts to cut federal cost: Report A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration for mass firing of probationary federal workers. As many as 50,000 people (probationary civilian employees) across the Defence Department could be impacted by this decision. The firings are expected to begin as early as Friday (Feb 21). Watch | White house warns Ukraine to stop pushback on minerals deal

Morning news brief: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions; KIIT suicide case updates and more

Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In a statement, the nation's Defence Minister Israel Katz accused "Palestinian terrorist organisations" of triggering the blasts as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to hold a security meeting.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
As per an AFP report citing a local police spokesperson, three bombs exploded on buses in the central Israeli city of Bat Yam. Two of them detonated while being defused.
Preliminary report by the police suggests a "suspected terror attack".
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">Israel accuses Hamas of murdering youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says their mother's body missing</a>
"Multiple reports have been received of explosions involving several buses at different locations in Bat Yam," said authorities in a statement.
In a video statement, Tzvika Brot, the mayor of Bat Yam, said there were "no injured in these incidents".
Footage aired on Israeli media showed a completely burned-out bus and another that was on fire.&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>Search for suspects on</h2>
As per reports, a large number of police have been deployed to search for suspects behind the blast.
"Police bomb disposal units are scanning for additional suspicious objects. We urge the public to avoid the areas and remain alert for any suspicious items," said the police.
While the search continued, bus drivers across Israel were asked to stop and inspect their vehicles for explosives.
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>
<h2>Palestinian militants behind blasts?</h2>
In a televised briefing, a police commander from central Israel, Haim Sargarof, said that the explosives used in the bus blasts were similar to those found in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
Netanyahu's office was to hold a security meeting over the "very serious incident". An official from the PM office said that Netanyahu "views the placing of explosives on buses as a very serious incident and will order decisive action against terror elements in the West Bank".
Watch | Bus blast in Israel: Fire burns, sirens sound after bus explosions near Tel Aviv
<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/2102_WION_BUS_7AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2102_WION_BUS_7AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=294&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="Bus blast in Israel: Fire burns, sirens sound after bus explosions near Tel Aviv" id="PL_iframe_block-m7e7tr7i-cg0ww621-tz425j1w"></iframe>
Meanwhile, Katz said that he has ordered the military to step up its offensives, particularly in refugee camps across the West Bank.
"In light of the serious attempted attacks in the Gush Dan (central) area by Palestinian terrorist organisations against the civilian population in Israel, I have instructed the IDF (military) to intensify operations to thwart terrorism in the Tulkarem refugee camp and in all the refugee camps in Judea and Samaria," Katz said, using the biblical term for the West Bank.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World News | As per a local police spokesperson, three bombs exploded on buses in the central Israeli city of Bat Yam. Two of them detonated while being defused.

Israel's central city of Bat Yam was rocked by blasts on Thursday (Feb 20) evening as buses exploded in a "suspected terror attack". In a statement, the nation's Defence Minister Israel Katz accused "Palestinian terrorist organisations" of triggering the blasts as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to hold a security meeting. What happened? As per an AFP report citing a local police spokesperson, three bombs exploded on buses in the central Israeli city of Bat Yam. Two of them detonated while being defused. Preliminary report by the police suggests a "suspected terror attack". Also read | Israel accuses Hamas of murdering youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says their mother's body missing "Multiple reports have been received of explosions involving several buses at different locations in Bat Yam," said authorities in a statement. In a video statement, Tzvika Brot, the mayor of Bat Yam, said there were "no injured in these incidents". Footage aired on Israeli media showed a completely burned-out bus and another that was on fire. Also read | ‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages Search for suspects on As per reports, a large number of police have been deployed to search for suspects behind the blast. "Police bomb disposal units are scanning for additional suspicious objects. We urge the public to avoid the areas and remain alert for any suspicious items," said the police. While the search continued, bus drivers across Israel were asked to stop and inspect their vehicles for explosives. Also read | ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies Palestinian militants behind blasts? In a televised briefing, a police commander from central Israel, Haim Sargarof, said that the explosives used in the bus blasts were similar to those found in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Netanyahu's office was to hold a security meeting over the "very serious incident". An official from the PM office said that Netanyahu "views the placing of explosives on buses as a very serious incident and will order decisive action against terror elements in the West Bank". Watch | Bus blast in Israel: Fire burns, sirens sound after bus explosions near Tel Aviv Meanwhile, Katz said that he has ordered the military to step up its offensives, particularly in refugee camps across the West Bank. "In light of the serious attempted attacks in the Gush Dan (central) area by Palestinian terrorist organisations against the civilian population in Israel, I have instructed the IDF (military) to intensify operations to thwart terrorism in the Tulkarem refugee camp and in all the refugee camps in Judea and Samaria," Katz said, using the biblical term for the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack'

A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration to fire probationary federal workers. As many as 50,000 people (probationary civilian employees) across the Defence Department could be impacted by this decision. The firings are expected to begin as early as Friday (Feb 21).
There are approximately 55,000 probationary employees in the department and it's unclear how many people would receive an exemption from the decision, an unnamed US official told CNN. Over 900,000 civilians work for the Defence Department.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-taxpayer-funds-for-illegal-aliens-trump-cuts-off-federal-benefits-for-undocumented-immigrants-8740659">&lsquo;No taxpayer funds for illegal aliens&rsquo;: Trump cuts off federal benefits for undocumented immigrants</a>
<h2>'Reductions in tax'</h2>
Meanwhile, firings were done in other departments of the US administration as well. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of America reportedly removed around 6,000 employees on February 20.
Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, DC on Thursday (Feb 20), Trump's DOGE chief Elon Musk praised the ongoing efforts to cut the federal workforce by him and the US president. In his speech, the tech mogul said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re finding savings, that&rsquo;s going to translate directly to reductions in tax." This comes amid reports that the Trump administration may shutter the Internal Revenue Service.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-begins-firing-of-federal-workers-8720964">Trump administration begins firing of federal workers</a>
<h2>Mass layoff in US federal health service&nbsp;</h2>
The US Health Department also fell victim to workforce reduction in federal departments. Massive protests erupted outside the headquarters of US health agencies on Friday (Feb 21) to call attention to mass layoffs in recent days in the department.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-firings-begin-as-trump-and-musk-plan-to-shrink-us-federal-workforce-8718026">Mass firings begin as Trump and Musk plan to shrink US federal workforce</a>
"When one CDC employee attempted to log into their laptop on Wednesday morning, they received an error message and realized they were locked out of the system, unable to communicate with their team or even say goodbye," one of the laid-off workers told The Guardian.&nbsp;
"They&rsquo;d been laid off overnight and because they have not yet received a letter, they don&rsquo;t know the reason for their termination. This employee had years of experience and excellent performance reviews, and was not probationary," they added.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/federal-reserve-set-for-an-extended-pause-8740620">Federal reserve set for an extended pause</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration to fire probationary federal workers.

A federal judge in the United States (US) reportedly cleared the way for the Donald Trump administration to fire probationary federal workers. As many as 50,000 people (probationary civilian employees) across the Defence Department could be impacted by this decision. The firings are expected to begin as early as Friday (Feb 21). There are approximately 55,000 probationary employees in the department and it's unclear how many people would receive an exemption from the decision, an unnamed US official told CNN. Over 900,000 civilians work for the Defence Department. Also read: ‘No taxpayer funds for illegal aliens’: Trump cuts off federal benefits for undocumented immigrants 'Reductions in tax' Meanwhile, firings were done in other departments of the US administration as well. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of America reportedly removed around 6,000 employees on February 20. Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, DC on Thursday (Feb 20), Trump's DOGE chief Elon Musk praised the ongoing efforts to cut the federal workforce by him and the US president. In his speech, the tech mogul said, “We’re finding savings, that’s going to translate directly to reductions in tax." This comes amid reports that the Trump administration may shutter the Internal Revenue Service. Also read: Trump administration begins firing of federal workers Mass layoff in US federal health service The US Health Department also fell victim to workforce reduction in federal departments. Massive protests erupted outside the headquarters of US health agencies on Friday (Feb 21) to call attention to mass layoffs in recent days in the department. Also read: Mass firings begin as Trump and Musk plan to shrink US federal workforce "When one CDC employee attempted to log into their laptop on Wednesday morning, they received an error message and realized they were locked out of the system, unable to communicate with their team or even say goodbye," one of the laid-off workers told The Guardian. "They’d been laid off overnight and because they have not yet received a letter, they don’t know the reason for their termination. This employee had years of experience and excellent performance reviews, and was not probationary," they added. WATCH: Federal reserve set for an extended pause (With inputs from agencies)

Over 50,000 employees of US defense department at risk of being laid off: Report

Israel on Friday (Feb 21) said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas while accusing Palestinian militants of killing her two young sons &mdash; the youngest hostages taken on Oct 7&mdash; in captivity. &nbsp;
The Israeli military confirmed that it had identified the remains of toddler Ariel and infant Kfir Bibas, the two sons of Shiri Bibas, after Hamas handed over their bodies as part of a hostage-prisoner swap. However, it alleged that the young children were "brutally murdered" by the "terrorists" while in captivity.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-of-grief-for-israel-says-netanyahu-as-hamas-confirms-youngest-hostage-kfir-bibass-body-among-dead-to-be-released-today-8738314">&lsquo;Day of grief&rsquo;, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas&rsquo;s body</a>
<h2>Fourth body has no match</h2>
As per the Israeli military, the remains of Kfir Bibas who was just 10 months old at the time of his death, his brother Ariel who was four years old, and Oded Lifshitz, an 83-year-old veteran journalist, have been identified. However, the fourth body does not belong to Shiri Bibas, and is an "anonymous, unidentified body".
"During the diagnostic process, it was found that the other body handed over does not belong to Shiri Bibas and does not match any other kidnapped individuals," Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee said on Telegram. &nbsp;
"We demand Hamas return Shiri Bibas along with all the abductees," he added.
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>
<h2>Israel accuses Hamas of murdering the Bibas children&nbsp;</h2>
Contradicting Hamas&rsquo;s claim that the boys were killed in an Israeli airstrike, Israel said intelligence assessments indicated that their captors murdered them in November 2023. &nbsp;
"According to the assessment of the relevant authorities and based on available intelligence and diagnostic indicators, Ariel and Kfir Bibas were brutally killed in captivity in November 2023 by Palestinian terrorists," Adraee said. &nbsp;
Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were 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;
The bodies were paraded before crowds in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, with propaganda posters before being transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Armed Hamas fighters carried out the handover. &nbsp;
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>
The bodies were examined and draped in Israeli flags before being transported back to Israel, where they were met by mourners lining the convoy&rsquo;s route. &nbsp;
Thousands, including masked and armed fighters, gathered at the ceremony, filming and cheering. The UN's human rights chief, Volker T&uuml;rk, has condemned the public display, stating that "under international law, any handover of the remains of deceased must comply with the prohibition of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, ensuring respect for the dignity of the deceased and their families". &nbsp;
The Israeli military said the whereabouts of Shiri Bibas remain unknown. &nbsp;
"This is a violation of utmost severity by the Hamas terrorist organization, which is obligated under the agreement to return four deceased hostages," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Israel accuses Hamas of murdering young hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, with allegations that the children were killed in captivity rather than by an airstrike.

Israel on Friday (Feb 21) said that one of the four bodies returned from Gaza is not that of hostage Shiri Bibas, as claimed by Hamas while accusing Palestinian militants of killing her two young sons — the youngest hostages taken on Oct 7— in captivity. The Israeli military confirmed that it had identified the remains of toddler Ariel and infant Kfir Bibas, the two sons of Shiri Bibas, after Hamas handed over their bodies as part of a hostage-prisoner swap. However, it alleged that the young children were "brutally murdered" by the "terrorists" while in captivity. Also read | ‘Day of grief’, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas’s body Fourth body has no match As per the Israeli military, the remains of Kfir Bibas who was just 10 months old at the time of his death, his brother Ariel who was four years old, and Oded Lifshitz, an 83-year-old veteran journalist, have been identified. However, the fourth body does not belong to Shiri Bibas, and is an "anonymous, unidentified body". "During the diagnostic process, it was found that the other body handed over does not belong to Shiri Bibas and does not match any other kidnapped individuals," Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee said on Telegram. "We demand Hamas return Shiri Bibas along with all the abductees," he added. Also read | ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies Israel accuses Hamas of murdering the Bibas children Contradicting Hamas’s claim that the boys were killed in an Israeli airstrike, Israel said intelligence assessments indicated that their captors murdered them in November 2023. "According to the assessment of the relevant authorities and based on available intelligence and diagnostic indicators, Ariel and Kfir Bibas were brutally killed in captivity in November 2023 by Palestinian terrorists," Adraee said. Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were 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. The bodies were paraded before crowds in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, with propaganda posters before being transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Armed Hamas fighters carried out the handover. Also read | 'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages The bodies were examined and draped in Israeli flags before being transported back to Israel, where they were met by mourners lining the convoy’s route. Thousands, including masked and armed fighters, gathered at the ceremony, filming and cheering. The UN's human rights chief, Volker Türk, has condemned the public display, stating that "under international law, any handover of the remains of deceased must comply with the prohibition of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, ensuring respect for the dignity of the deceased and their families". The Israeli military said the whereabouts of Shiri Bibas remain unknown. "This is a violation of utmost severity by the Hamas terrorist organization, which is obligated under the agreement to return four deceased hostages," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing

Bonnie Blue and Lilly Phillips, the two UK-based OnlyFans models who recently made news for creating world records by sleeping with hundreds of men, are both pregnant.
The adult content creators, to the alarm of many, have announced that they are expecting children soon after their sexual escapades shocked the world. Many, on social media, are slamming the women, raising alarm over the paternity of the yet-to-be-born kids.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/porn-star-bonnie-blue-man-dragged-by-mother-from-queue-to-have-sex-with-onlyfans-star-8650638" aria-label="WATCH | Teen boy, in queue to have sex with Bonnie Blue, dragged out by mother">WATCH | Teen boy, in queue to have sex with Bonnie Blue, dragged out by mother</a>
<h2>Bonnie Blue</h2>
Tia Emma Billinger, professionally known as Bonnie Blue, is a porn actress and an OnlyFans creator. In January 2025, she made the news after claiming to have had sex with 1,057 men in just 12 hours.
The adult video star is apparently pregnant. Blue first dropped hints of her pregnancy on her Snapchat account. She posted a photo of chocolate and sprinkles-covered pickles with the hashtag &lsquo;cravings&rsquo;.&nbsp;
Now, she has confirmed the rumours. Bonnie Blue has posted a video on Instagram with the caption &ldquo;Don't worry boys, you haven't got to queue for this one&rdquo;. This alludes to the fact that hundreds of men queued up to have sex with her during the 12-hour record she created.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-woman-left-phd-to-make-1-million-on-onlyfans-meet-zara-dar-786471" aria-label="This woman left PhD to make $1 million on OnlyFans: Meet Zara Dar">This woman left PhD to make $1 million on OnlyFans: Meet Zara Dar</a>
In the video, she has also claimed that she will turn the birth into another money-making stunt by live streaming it.
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</a>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGRMhWRN9f2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Bonnie (@schoolies_xo)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
Unsurprisingly, the comments are anything but kind. While some have posted satirically, &ldquo;Bring your parents to school day will be wild." Others slammed her, asking, &ldquo;What is wrong with you?&rdquo;
<h2>Lilly Phillips</h2>
Lilly Phillips, also a porn actress, made news in late 2024 after uploading a video of having sex with 101 men, and then announcing plans to have sex with 300, and then 1,000 men in one day.&nbsp;
On February 19, she announced that she was pregnant. Posting pictures on her Snapchat account, she wrote, "The secret is out. Baby Phillips 2025.&rdquo; In one picture, she can be seen cradling what seems to be a baby bump, and another with two positive pregnancy tests.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/airbnb-cracks-down-on-hidden-cameras-what-hosts-and-guests-should-know-699180" aria-label="Airbnb cracks down on hidden cameras: What hosts and guests should know">Airbnb cracks down on hidden cameras: What hosts and guests should know</a>
As per a DailyMail article, while Blue has a boyfriend, Phillips is single. Their relationship statuses, however, have not helped their case. Netizens have quickly jumped to the conclusion that the pregnancies are either just publicity stunts or the result of their sexcapades (sexual escapades). One point that must be noted here is that even though both adult entertainers used condoms during their sex marathons, protection is not 100 per cent safe.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | Entertainment | World: Bonnie Blue, known for setting a world record of sleeping with 1,057 men, is expecting. Lilly Phillips, who made headlines for sleeping with hundreds of men, is also pregnant.

Bonnie Blue and Lilly Phillips, the two UK-based OnlyFans models who recently made news for creating world records by sleeping with hundreds of men, are both pregnant. The adult content creators, to the alarm of many, have announced that they are expecting children soon after their sexual escapades shocked the world. Many, on social media, are slamming the women, raising alarm over the paternity of the yet-to-be-born kids. Also read | WATCH | Teen boy, in queue to have sex with Bonnie Blue, dragged out by mother Bonnie Blue Tia Emma Billinger, professionally known as Bonnie Blue, is a porn actress and an OnlyFans creator. In January 2025, she made the news after claiming to have had sex with 1,057 men in just 12 hours. The adult video star is apparently pregnant. Blue first dropped hints of her pregnancy on her Snapchat account. She posted a photo of chocolate and sprinkles-covered pickles with the hashtag ‘cravings’. Now, she has confirmed the rumours. Bonnie Blue has posted a video on Instagram with the caption “Don't worry boys, you haven't got to queue for this one”. This alludes to the fact that hundreds of men queued up to have sex with her during the 12-hour record she created. Also read | This woman left PhD to make $1 million on OnlyFans: Meet Zara Dar In the video, she has also claimed that she will turn the birth into another money-making stunt by live streaming it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bonnie (@schoolies_xo) Unsurprisingly, the comments are anything but kind. While some have posted satirically, “Bring your parents to school day will be wild." Others slammed her, asking, “What is wrong with you?” Lilly Phillips Lilly Phillips, also a porn actress, made news in late 2024 after uploading a video of having sex with 101 men, and then announcing plans to have sex with 300, and then 1,000 men in one day. On February 19, she announced that she was pregnant. Posting pictures on her Snapchat account, she wrote, "The secret is out. Baby Phillips 2025.” In one picture, she can be seen cradling what seems to be a baby bump, and another with two positive pregnancy tests. Also read | Airbnb cracks down on hidden cameras: What hosts and guests should know As per a DailyMail article, while Blue has a boyfriend, Phillips is single. Their relationship statuses, however, have not helped their case. Netizens have quickly jumped to the conclusion that the pregnancies are either just publicity stunts or the result of their sexcapades (sexual escapades). One point that must be noted here is that even though both adult entertainers used condoms during their sex marathons, protection is not 100 per cent safe. (With inputs from agencies)

Who's your daddy? Bonnie Blue and Lilly Phillips, OnlyFans creators who slept with 100s of men, pregnant. Internet questions paternity

On Thursday (Feb 20), the US Senate voted 51-49 to confirm Kash Patel as the next FBI director, despite strong objections from Democrats who have raised concerns about his qualifications, past statements, and loyalty to President Donald Trump.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska, voted &ldquo;no&rdquo; on the nomination of Kash Patel to serve as FBI Director. Meanwhile, in a surprise vote, Senator Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky, voted to confirm Patel.
Patel will take charge of an FBI that has been under intense scrutiny. The Justice Department recently fired several senior FBI officials and requested the names of thousands of agents involved in investigations related to the January 6 Capitol riot.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-pick-kash-patel-accused-of-sercretly-arranging-firings-before-confirmation-8712232" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Lied under oath': Trump&rsquo;s FBI pick Kash Patel accused of 'secretly' arranging firings before confirmation</a>
Trump has suggested some of these agents could be dismissed, though Patel told senators he was not involved in any such discussions.
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley defended Patel, saying, &ldquo;He wants to hold the FBI accountable to Congress, to the president and, most importantly, to the people they serve &mdash; the American taxpayer.&rdquo;
<h2>Democratic protests and concerns</h2>
Democrats have opposed Patel&rsquo;s nomination, arguing that he lacks the leadership experience necessary for the role. They have also pointed to his history of controversial comments, which they believe undermine his credibility.
Ahead of the vote, Senator Chris Murphy warned, &ldquo;My prediction is if you vote for Kash Patel, more than any other confirmation vote you make, you will come to regret this one to your grave.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-trumps-fbi-nominee-kash-patels-girlfriend-alexis-wilkins-8690131" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Who is Trump's FBI chief nominee Kash Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins?</a>
Before the vote, a group of Senate Democrats gathered outside FBI headquarters to voice their opposition. Senator Adam Schiff said, &ldquo;This is someone we cannot trust. This is someone who lacks the character to do this job, someone who lacks the integrity to do this job.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;The only qualification Kash Patel has to be FBI director is that when everyone else in the first Trump administration said, &lsquo;No, I won&rsquo;t do that, that crosses moral, ethical and legal lines,&rsquo; Kash Patel said, &lsquo;Sign me up.&rsquo;&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-pick-kash-patel-touches-feet-of-parents-welcomes-with-jai-shree-krishna-8678181" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Watch - Trump's FBI pick Kash Patel greets parents with 'Jai Shree Krishna', touches their feet</a>
<h2>Controversial comments and past statements</h2>
Patel has made a series of controversial comments in recent years, particularly on conservative media platforms. He referred to law enforcement officials who investigated Trump as &ldquo;criminal gangsters,&rdquo; described some January 6 rioters as &ldquo;political prisoners,&rdquo; and vowed to go after anti-Trump &ldquo;conspirators&rdquo; in the government and media.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-loyalist-or-fbi-reformer-us-presidents-fbi-pick-kash-patel-grilled-in-heated-senate-hearing-8676264" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Trump loyalist or FBI reformer?' US President's FBI pick Kash Patel grilled in heated Senate hearing</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Ahead of the vote, Senator Chris Murphy warned, “My prediction is if you vote for Kash Patel, more than any other confirmation vote you make, you will come to regret this one to your grave.”

On Thursday (Feb 20), the US Senate voted 51-49 to confirm Kash Patel as the next FBI director, despite strong objections from Democrats who have raised concerns about his qualifications, past statements, and loyalty to President Donald Trump. Senator Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska, voted “no” on the nomination of Kash Patel to serve as FBI Director. Meanwhile, in a surprise vote, Senator Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky, voted to confirm Patel. Patel will take charge of an FBI that has been under intense scrutiny. The Justice Department recently fired several senior FBI officials and requested the names of thousands of agents involved in investigations related to the January 6 Capitol riot. Also read: 'Lied under oath': Trump’s FBI pick Kash Patel accused of 'secretly' arranging firings before confirmation Trump has suggested some of these agents could be dismissed, though Patel told senators he was not involved in any such discussions. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley defended Patel, saying, “He wants to hold the FBI accountable to Congress, to the president and, most importantly, to the people they serve — the American taxpayer.” Democratic protests and concerns Democrats have opposed Patel’s nomination, arguing that he lacks the leadership experience necessary for the role. They have also pointed to his history of controversial comments, which they believe undermine his credibility. Ahead of the vote, Senator Chris Murphy warned, “My prediction is if you vote for Kash Patel, more than any other confirmation vote you make, you will come to regret this one to your grave.” Also read: Who is Trump's FBI chief nominee Kash Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins? Before the vote, a group of Senate Democrats gathered outside FBI headquarters to voice their opposition. Senator Adam Schiff said, “This is someone we cannot trust. This is someone who lacks the character to do this job, someone who lacks the integrity to do this job.” He added, “The only qualification Kash Patel has to be FBI director is that when everyone else in the first Trump administration said, ‘No, I won’t do that, that crosses moral, ethical and legal lines,’ Kash Patel said, ‘Sign me up.’” Also read: Watch - Trump's FBI pick Kash Patel greets parents with 'Jai Shree Krishna', touches their feet Controversial comments and past statements Patel has made a series of controversial comments in recent years, particularly on conservative media platforms. He referred to law enforcement officials who investigated Trump as “criminal gangsters,” described some January 6 rioters as “political prisoners,” and vowed to go after anti-Trump “conspirators” in the government and media. Also read: 'Trump loyalist or FBI reformer?' US President's FBI pick Kash Patel grilled in heated Senate hearing (With inputs from agencies)

'You will regret this to your grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director

US Vice President JD Vance spoke at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday (Feb 20), marking one month since the Trump administration returned to office.
&ldquo;The president keeps us on a pretty breakneck pace,&rdquo; Vance told the audience.
&ldquo;Trump knows that the American people have given us a chance to save the country, and that&rsquo;s exactly what we&rsquo;re going to do. And thank God for that, because the past month has been a lot of fun,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vances-munich-speech-slammed-by-europe-praised-by-russia-8722231" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia</a>
<h2>Vance: Immigration is the &lsquo;biggest threat&rsquo;</h2>
Vance said uncontrolled immigration is the biggest challenge for both Europe and the US.
&ldquo;The greatest threat in Europe, and I&rsquo;d say the greatest threat in the US until about 30 days ago, is that leaders in the West have allowed millions of unvetted foreign migrants into their countries,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>&lsquo;Close to peace in Europe&rsquo;</h2>
Vance also spoke about the recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, crediting Trump for helping move towards ending the war in Ukraine.
&ldquo;I think with President Trump, what makes him such a strong negotiator&mdash;and I&rsquo;ve seen this in private&mdash;is that he doesn&rsquo;t take anything off the table. Everything is on the table. And of course, that makes people in America upset because they say, &lsquo;Why are you talking to Russia?&rsquo;&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theres-a-difference-between-jd-vance-slams-us-journo-mehdi-hasan-for-calling-out-free-speech-oppression-remarks-8732970" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'There's a difference between...': JD Vance slams journo Mehdi Hasan for likening White House ban to attack on free speech</a>
&ldquo;How do you end the war if you don&rsquo;t talk to Russia? You have to talk to everyone involved in the fighting,&rdquo; he added.
Vance said Trump understands these issues are complicated but believes peace is possible. &ldquo;I really believe we are close to peace in Europe for the first time in three years,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>Trump&rsquo;s first month: Executive orders and policy changes</h2>
Since returning to office, Trump has quickly introduced a series of executive orders. These include major cuts to government spending, stricter immigration rules, and the removal of diversity programs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-defends-elon-musk-munich-security-conference-election-interference-claims-8721870" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims</a>
<h2>Right-wing leaders gather at&nbsp;CPAC</h2>
This year&rsquo;s CPAC event has attracted conservative leaders from around the world. Attendees include Argentina&rsquo;s President Javier Milei, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. European conservatives such as France&rsquo;s Jordan Bardella, Britain&rsquo;s Nigel Farage, and former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki are also present, looking to learn from Trump&rsquo;s political comeback.
Top US officials speaking at the event include White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Trump is set to speak on Saturday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-slams-free-speech-restrictions-in-europe-in-munich-speech-8721757" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'There's nothing America can do for you': JD Vance slams free speech restrictions in Europe in Munich speech</a>
<h2>Liz Truss calls for a &lsquo;Trump revolution&rsquo; in the UK</h2>
Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss also took the stage, showing support for Trump&rsquo;s movement.
&ldquo;Patriotic Brits... look across the Atlantic with envy. We want a Trump revolution in Britain,&rdquo; she said.
She also praised Trump ally Elon Musk, adding, &ldquo;We want Elon and his nerd-army of Musk-rats looking into the British deep state. We want to be part of the second American revolution.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

“Trump knows that the American people have given us a chance to save the country, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do,” US Vice President Vance said. World

US Vice President JD Vance spoke at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday (Feb 20), marking one month since the Trump administration returned to office. “The president keeps us on a pretty breakneck pace,” Vance told the audience. “Trump knows that the American people have given us a chance to save the country, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do. And thank God for that, because the past month has been a lot of fun,” he added. Also read: ‘Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference’: JD Vance’s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia Vance: Immigration is the ‘biggest threat’ Vance said uncontrolled immigration is the biggest challenge for both Europe and the US. “The greatest threat in Europe, and I’d say the greatest threat in the US until about 30 days ago, is that leaders in the West have allowed millions of unvetted foreign migrants into their countries,” he said. ‘Close to peace in Europe’ Vance also spoke about the recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, crediting Trump for helping move towards ending the war in Ukraine. “I think with President Trump, what makes him such a strong negotiator—and I’ve seen this in private—is that he doesn’t take anything off the table. Everything is on the table. And of course, that makes people in America upset because they say, ‘Why are you talking to Russia?’” he said. Also read: 'There's a difference between...': JD Vance slams journo Mehdi Hasan for likening White House ban to attack on free speech “How do you end the war if you don’t talk to Russia? You have to talk to everyone involved in the fighting,” he added. Vance said Trump understands these issues are complicated but believes peace is possible. “I really believe we are close to peace in Europe for the first time in three years,” he said. Trump’s first month: Executive orders and policy changes Since returning to office, Trump has quickly introduced a series of executive orders. These include major cuts to government spending, stricter immigration rules, and the removal of diversity programs. Also read: 'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims Right-wing leaders gather at CPAC This year’s CPAC event has attracted conservative leaders from around the world. Attendees include Argentina’s President Javier Milei, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. European conservatives such as France’s Jordan Bardella, Britain’s Nigel Farage, and former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki are also present, looking to learn from Trump’s political comeback. Top US officials speaking at the event include White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Trump is set to speak on Saturday. Also read: 'There's nothing America can do for you': JD Vance slams free speech restrictions in Europe in Munich speech Liz Truss calls for a ‘Trump revolution’ in the UK Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss also took the stage, showing support for Trump’s movement. “Patriotic Brits... look across the Atlantic with envy. We want a Trump revolution in Britain,” she said. She also praised Trump ally Elon Musk, adding, “We want Elon and his nerd-army of Musk-rats looking into the British deep state. We want to be part of the second American revolution.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Trump saving America, peace in Europe close,’ says Vance to mark one month of Trump 2.0 in CPAC speech

Mitch McConnell, the powerful Republican lawmaker who was instrumental in steering the current US shift to the political right but had a tempestuous relationship with Donald Trump, announced Thursday he will step down from the Senate.
At 83 and in increasingly unsteady health, McConnell's announcement on the Senate floor that he will not seek reelection next year was not a big surprise.
But after serving seven terms and earning a reputation as Congress's ruthless, master tactician, the Kentucky senator's retirement will draw the curtain on a US political era&mdash;and underline the Republican Party's growing radicalization.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-it-trump-backs-idea-of-sending-some-savings-from-doge-back-to-us-citizens-8741573">&lsquo;I love it&rsquo;: Trump backs idea of sending some savings from DOGE back to US citizens</a>
McConnell called his four decades in the chamber "the honour of a lifetime" and said, "I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last."
The Kentuckian was first elected in 1984 and reached the Senate Republican leadership in 2007. The ultimate Washington powerbroker, he remained as party leader for a record-long tenure until 2025, just as Trump came back for a second term.
Concerns have been growing about McConnell's health after repeated episodes in which he appeared to freeze during public events, as well as suffering several falls.
In addition to his physical frailty, he has seen himself increasingly sidelined by a resurgent Trump, who swept back to power in the November presidential election, demanding total loyalty from a Republican Party where dissenters have largely quit or been cowed.
South Dakota Senator John Thune, an ally, was chosen to replace him as leader of the party's new Senate majority.
<h2><hl2>- </hl2><hl2>Reagan Republican -</hl2></h2>
Back in 2016, it was McConnell who helped Trump win his shock first election.
Throughout Trump's often chaotic and scandal-prone first term, the Senate mastermind was instrumental in advancing a right-wing agenda, including the confirmation of three conservative justices to the powerful Supreme Court.
The court's ruling in 2022 to end the federal guarantee of abortion rights, leaving decisions on the procedure to individual state governments, was a lasting monument to McConnell's influence.
The senator was equally effective in using his hardball tactics to wreck Democratic-led legislation, earning his nickname the "Grim Reaper."
But McConnell fell out with Trump after he led attempts to overturn the 2020 election in which he lost to Democrat Joe Biden, culminating with the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol.
Like nearly all other Republican leaders, McConnell soon swallowed his pride and made up with Trump.
But as the second Trump presidency dawned, it became clear the veteran political general was out of step with the radical populism and isolationism gripping the party's troops.
With a world view rooted in the Ronald Reagan era of US global leadership, McConnell was a fierce backer for Washington supporting Ukraine's desperate fight against Russia, even as Trump led a shift in the other direction.
Trump is currently pushing to restore relations with Russia while harshly criticizing Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he even blames for the three-year invasion of his country.
In his floor speech Thursday, McConnell warned that the United States was allowing the "hard power" it built up under Reagan to "atrophy."
"Today, a dangerous world threatens to outpace the work of rebuilding it," McConnell said. "So, lest any of our colleagues still doubt my intentions for the remainder of my term: I have some unfinished business to attend to."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World: At 83 and in increasingly unsteady health, McConnell's announcement on the Senate floor that he will not seek reelection next year was not a big surprise.

Mitch McConnell, the powerful Republican lawmaker who was instrumental in steering the current US shift to the political right but had a tempestuous relationship with Donald Trump, announced Thursday he will step down from the Senate. At 83 and in increasingly unsteady health, McConnell's announcement on the Senate floor that he will not seek reelection next year was not a big surprise. But after serving seven terms and earning a reputation as Congress's ruthless, master tactician, the Kentucky senator's retirement will draw the curtain on a US political era—and underline the Republican Party's growing radicalization. Also read: ‘I love it’: Trump backs idea of sending some savings from DOGE back to US citizens McConnell called his four decades in the chamber "the honour of a lifetime" and said, "I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last." The Kentuckian was first elected in 1984 and reached the Senate Republican leadership in 2007. The ultimate Washington powerbroker, he remained as party leader for a record-long tenure until 2025, just as Trump came back for a second term. Concerns have been growing about McConnell's health after repeated episodes in which he appeared to freeze during public events, as well as suffering several falls. In addition to his physical frailty, he has seen himself increasingly sidelined by a resurgent Trump, who swept back to power in the November presidential election, demanding total loyalty from a Republican Party where dissenters have largely quit or been cowed. South Dakota Senator John Thune, an ally, was chosen to replace him as leader of the party's new Senate majority. - Reagan Republican - Back in 2016, it was McConnell who helped Trump win his shock first election. Throughout Trump's often chaotic and scandal-prone first term, the Senate mastermind was instrumental in advancing a right-wing agenda, including the confirmation of three conservative justices to the powerful Supreme Court. The court's ruling in 2022 to end the federal guarantee of abortion rights, leaving decisions on the procedure to individual state governments, was a lasting monument to McConnell's influence. The senator was equally effective in using his hardball tactics to wreck Democratic-led legislation, earning his nickname the "Grim Reaper." But McConnell fell out with Trump after he led attempts to overturn the 2020 election in which he lost to Democrat Joe Biden, culminating with the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol. Like nearly all other Republican leaders, McConnell soon swallowed his pride and made up with Trump. But as the second Trump presidency dawned, it became clear the veteran political general was out of step with the radical populism and isolationism gripping the party's troops. With a world view rooted in the Ronald Reagan era of US global leadership, McConnell was a fierce backer for Washington supporting Ukraine's desperate fight against Russia, even as Trump led a shift in the other direction. Trump is currently pushing to restore relations with Russia while harshly criticizing Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he even blames for the three-year invasion of his country. In his floor speech Thursday, McConnell warned that the United States was allowing the "hard power" it built up under Reagan to "atrophy." "Today, a dangerous world threatens to outpace the work of rebuilding it," McConnell said. "So, lest any of our colleagues still doubt my intentions for the remainder of my term: I have some unfinished business to attend to." 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.

Top Republican Mitch McConnell announces retirement from US Senate

US President Donald Trump said that he likes the idea of sending some of the savings from the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) back to the US citizens as a kind of dividend.
During an investment conference in Miami on Wednesday (Feb 19), the president said that the administration is considering a concept where 20 per cent of the savings generated by DOGE&rsquo;s cost-cutting efforts go back to Americans. While another 20 per cent would go to paying down the national debt, he said.
He added that this arrangement would also incentivise people to report any wasteful spending.
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">&lsquo;They dress in T-shirts&rsquo;: Trump mocks &lsquo;genius&rsquo; DOGE staffers who dress &lsquo;worse than Elon Musk&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;They&rsquo;ll be reporting it themselves,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;They participate in the process of saving us money.&rdquo;
While he was flying back to Washington aboard Air Force One aircraft, he was asked about the plan, which Musk floated.
&ldquo;I love it,&rdquo; the Republican told reporters.
<h2>&lsquo;DOGE dividend&rsquo;</h2>
A day earlier, Musk responded to a social media post that suggested the dividend plan.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-refuses-to-block-elon-musk-doge-from-accessing-data-firing-workers-8735259">US Court refuses to block Elon Musk, DOGE from accessing data, firing workers</a>
James Fishback, an investment firm CEO, shared a detailed plan for &lsquo;DOGE Dividend&rsquo; on X. He wrote, &ldquo;President Trump and Elon Musk should announce a &lsquo;DOGE Dividend&rsquo;&mdash;a tax refund check sent to every taxpayer, funded exclusively with a portion of the total savings delivered by DOGE.&rdquo;
Musk replied to the post saying, &ldquo;Will check with the President.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Will check with the President
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1891967592048611532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-trump-bromance-shines-in-joint-interview-as-doge-chief-calls-himself-tech-support-for-us-president-8734740">Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez</a>
<h2>Crackdown to cut federal spending</h2>
Musk&rsquo;s DOGE has been on a crackdown to cut down federal departments. On February 11, Trump signed an executive order expanding the role of the Department of Government Efficiency. The department has shut down several federal agencies, sent thousands of staff members home, and sparked legal battles across the country.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The president said that the administration is considering a concept where 20 per cent of the savings generated by DOGE’s cost-cutting efforts go back to Americans.

US President Donald Trump said that he likes the idea of sending some of the savings from the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) back to the US citizens as a kind of dividend. During an investment conference in Miami on Wednesday (Feb 19), the president said that the administration is considering a concept where 20 per cent of the savings generated by DOGE’s cost-cutting efforts go back to Americans. While another 20 per cent would go to paying down the national debt, he said. He added that this arrangement would also incentivise people to report any wasteful spending. Also read | ‘They dress in T-shirts’: Trump mocks ‘genius’ DOGE staffers who dress ‘worse than Elon Musk’ “They’ll be reporting it themselves,” Trump said. “They participate in the process of saving us money.” While he was flying back to Washington aboard Air Force One aircraft, he was asked about the plan, which Musk floated. “I love it,” the Republican told reporters. ‘DOGE dividend’ A day earlier, Musk responded to a social media post that suggested the dividend plan. Also read | US Court refuses to block Elon Musk, DOGE from accessing data, firing workers James Fishback, an investment firm CEO, shared a detailed plan for ‘DOGE Dividend’ on X. He wrote, “President Trump and Elon Musk should announce a ‘DOGE Dividend’—a tax refund check sent to every taxpayer, funded exclusively with a portion of the total savings delivered by DOGE.” Musk replied to the post saying, “Will check with the President.” Will check with the President — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 18, 2025 Also read | Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez Crackdown to cut federal spending Musk’s DOGE has been on a crackdown to cut down federal departments. On February 11, Trump signed an executive order expanding the role of the Department of Government Efficiency. The department has shut down several federal agencies, sent thousands of staff members home, and sparked legal battles across the country. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I love it’: Trump backs idea of sending some savings from DOGE back to US citizens

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv on Thursday (Feb 20) as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country.
This comes after US President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of being a "dictator" and blamed him for the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president said that Trump was living in a Russian "disinformation bubble".&nbsp;
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had "productive meeting" with Trump envoy.
<h2>Press conference cancelled</h2>
Kellogg, a retired US general and a longtime adviser to Trump on security matters, cancelled the press conference scheduled after his meeting with Zelensky. Kellogg would not be taking questions from the press, Ukrainian officials said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-starmer-compares-zelensky-to-winston-churchill-defends-ukraine-prez-against-trumps-dictator-allegations-8738197">UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' jibe, compares Ukraine prez to Winston Churchill</a>
They added that the US envoy would only come for a photocall and protocol handshake.&nbsp;
Kellogg's trip to Ukraine has coincided with recent heat between Trump and Zelensky, which has been raising questions about the US's relations with Ukraine.&nbsp;
This majorly came after the US held talks with Russia in Riyadh without the presence of Kyiv.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-blasts-ukrainian-president-zelensky-russia-ukraine-war-putin-8737582">&lsquo;Dictator Without Elections&rsquo;: Trump blasts Zelensky after &lsquo;disinformation&rsquo; dig, warns Ukraine could collapse</a>
Moreover, there are concerns that Kellogg has been sidelined from the Trump administration's negotiating team as he was not included in the US delegation that held talks with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia.
Kellogg said that the US is conducting separate discussions on a potential peace deal with Russia and with Ukraine and that he is leading the US-Ukraine track and Steve Witkoff, Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, is in charge of the US-Russia track.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-refuses-to-co-sponsor-un-draft-resolution-backing-ukraine-report-8741220">US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report</a>
Following this, the two envoys will return to Washington and compare notes and examine the next steps.&nbsp;
Kellogg, while speaking from the city's railway station after arrival, said that his mission would be to "sit and listen" to Ukraine's concerns.&nbsp;
He added that he understood Ukraine's "need for security guarantees&rdquo; in any postwar settlement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: Kellogg's trip to Ukraine has coincided with recent heat between Trump and Zelensky, which has been raising questions about the US's relations with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv on Thursday (Feb 20) as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country. This comes after US President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of being a "dictator" and blamed him for the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president said that Trump was living in a Russian "disinformation bubble". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had "productive meeting" with Trump envoy. Press conference cancelled Kellogg, a retired US general and a longtime adviser to Trump on security matters, cancelled the press conference scheduled after his meeting with Zelensky. Kellogg would not be taking questions from the press, Ukrainian officials said. Also read: UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' jibe, compares Ukraine prez to Winston Churchill They added that the US envoy would only come for a photocall and protocol handshake. Kellogg's trip to Ukraine has coincided with recent heat between Trump and Zelensky, which has been raising questions about the US's relations with Ukraine. This majorly came after the US held talks with Russia in Riyadh without the presence of Kyiv. Also read: ‘Dictator Without Elections’: Trump blasts Zelensky after ‘disinformation’ dig, warns Ukraine could collapse Moreover, there are concerns that Kellogg has been sidelined from the Trump administration's negotiating team as he was not included in the US delegation that held talks with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia. Kellogg said that the US is conducting separate discussions on a potential peace deal with Russia and with Ukraine and that he is leading the US-Ukraine track and Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, is in charge of the US-Russia track. Also read: US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report Following this, the two envoys will return to Washington and compare notes and examine the next steps. Kellogg, while speaking from the city's railway station after arrival, said that his mission would be to "sit and listen" to Ukraine's concerns. He added that he understood Ukraine's "need for security guarantees” in any postwar settlement. Also read: 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says had 'productive meeting' with Keith Kellogg after Trump envoy cancels press conference

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa opened a Group of 20 foreign ministers meeting on Thursday with a call for "cooperation" amid geopolitical tensions and "rising intolerance".
Top diplomats from the world's largest economies gathered in Johannesburg for the two-day talks held for the first time in Africa and overshadowed by the absence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
"It is critical that the principles of the UN Charter, multilateralism and international law should remain at the centre of all our endeavours. It should be the glue that keeps us together," Ramaphosa said.
"Geopolitical tensions, rising intolerance, conflict and war, climate change, pandemics and energy and food insecurity threaten an already fragile global coexistence," Ramaphosa said.
The G20, a grouping of 19 countries as well as the European Union and the African Union, is deeply divided on key issues from Russia's war in Ukraine to climate change.
World leaders have also been split on how to respond to the dramatic policy shifts from Washington since the return of US President Donald Trump.
"As the G20 we must continue to advocate for diplomatic solutions to conflicts," Ramaphosa said.
"I think it is important that we should remember that cooperation is our greatest strength," he added. "Let us seek to find common ground through constructive engagement."
A curtain-raiser to the G20 summit in November, the meeting was attended by top diplomats including Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, his Chinese and Indian counterparts as well as European envoys like France's Jean-Noel Barrot and Britain's David Lammy.
But the group's richest member, the United States, was only represented by the deputy chief of mission at the American embassy in Pretoria after Rubio skipped the meeting amid disputes with the host nation over several policy issues.
"My job is to advance America's national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism," Rubio said, announcing his decision to not travel to South Africa for the meeting.
Ramaphosa said Rubio's absence was not a "train smash" and did not amount to a boycott since the United States was represented.
He hoped the diplomatic process would "iron out wrinkles that may have appeared in our relationship", he told reporters.
Pretoria has in particular come under fire from Washington for leading a case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of "genocidal" acts in its Gaza offensive, which Israel has denied.
US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent announced on Thursday that he would also not attend the G20 meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors in Cape Town next week.
<h2><hl2>'Africa must be heard'&nbsp;</hl2></h2>
The first G20 presidency by an African nation was an opportunity for the continent to be "heard on critical global issues, like sustainable development, the digital economy and the shift toward green energy", Ramaphosa said in his opening address.
South Africa's priorities included finding ways to scale up resilience to climate disasters and improving "debt sustainability" for developing countries.
It also wanted to mobilise finance for a "just energy transition" in which countries most responsible for climate change support those least responsible, he said.
But in a sign of the tensions within the grouping, the planned family photograph was cancelled as several countries did not wish to appear next to Lavrov, members of a delegation told AFP.
South Africa has been criticised for its ties with Russia, including not condemning its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Rubio's absence will "distract the focus of the meeting," warned William Gumede, professor of public management at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
"It sends a symbolic message to Africans: the US is not taking Africa seriously," he said.
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: Top diplomats from the world's largest economies gathered in Johannesburg for two-day talks held for the first time in Africa and overshadowed by the absence of Marco Rubio.

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa opened a Group of 20 foreign ministers meeting on Thursday with a call for "cooperation" amid geopolitical tensions and "rising intolerance". Top diplomats from the world's largest economies gathered in Johannesburg for the two-day talks held for the first time in Africa and overshadowed by the absence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "It is critical that the principles of the UN Charter, multilateralism and international law should remain at the centre of all our endeavours. It should be the glue that keeps us together," Ramaphosa said. "Geopolitical tensions, rising intolerance, conflict and war, climate change, pandemics and energy and food insecurity threaten an already fragile global coexistence," Ramaphosa said. The G20, a grouping of 19 countries as well as the European Union and the African Union, is deeply divided on key issues from Russia's war in Ukraine to climate change. World leaders have also been split on how to respond to the dramatic policy shifts from Washington since the return of US President Donald Trump. "As the G20 we must continue to advocate for diplomatic solutions to conflicts," Ramaphosa said. "I think it is important that we should remember that cooperation is our greatest strength," he added. "Let us seek to find common ground through constructive engagement." A curtain-raiser to the G20 summit in November, the meeting was attended by top diplomats including Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, his Chinese and Indian counterparts as well as European envoys like France's Jean-Noel Barrot and Britain's David Lammy. But the group's richest member, the United States, was only represented by the deputy chief of mission at the American embassy in Pretoria after Rubio skipped the meeting amid disputes with the host nation over several policy issues. "My job is to advance America's national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism," Rubio said, announcing his decision to not travel to South Africa for the meeting. Ramaphosa said Rubio's absence was not a "train smash" and did not amount to a boycott since the United States was represented. He hoped the diplomatic process would "iron out wrinkles that may have appeared in our relationship", he told reporters. Pretoria has in particular come under fire from Washington for leading a case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of "genocidal" acts in its Gaza offensive, which Israel has denied. US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent announced on Thursday that he would also not attend the G20 meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors in Cape Town next week. 'Africa must be heard' The first G20 presidency by an African nation was an opportunity for the continent to be "heard on critical global issues, like sustainable development, the digital economy and the shift toward green energy", Ramaphosa said in his opening address. South Africa's priorities included finding ways to scale up resilience to climate disasters and improving "debt sustainability" for developing countries. It also wanted to mobilise finance for a "just energy transition" in which countries most responsible for climate change support those least responsible, he said. But in a sign of the tensions within the grouping, the planned family photograph was cancelled as several countries did not wish to appear next to Lavrov, members of a delegation told AFP. South Africa has been criticised for its ties with Russia, including not condemning its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Rubio's absence will "distract the focus of the meeting," warned William Gumede, professor of public management at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. "It sends a symbolic message to Africans: the US is not taking Africa seriously," he said. 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.

G20 foreign minister meeting: South Africa's Ramaphosa calls for 'cooperation' amid geopolitical tensions

Pope Francis spent his seventh day in hospital on Thursday, where he is being treated for pneumonia, as cardinals expressed their concern but not alarm at his condition.
The 88-year-old was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Friday with bronchitis, but it later developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking widespread alarm.
In a morning update Thursday, the Vatican said he had spent a peaceful night in hospital, "got up and had breakfast in his armchair".
The evening before, the Vatican said the pope's blood tests had shown a "slight improvement" and his clinical conditions were stable.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-funeral-being-rehearsed-as-swiss-guard-prepare-for-pontiffs-passing-8738506" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis' funeral &lsquo;being rehearsed&rsquo; as Swiss Guard 'prepare'; Italy PM Meloni visits pontiff: Reports</a>
Vatican sources said that despite his illness the Argentine pope was still trying to work, reading and signing documents, writing, speaking with colleagues and keeping up with the news.
"We are all worried about the pope," said Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, head of Italy's bishops conference.
But the fact that Francis was eating and meeting people "means that we are on the right path to a full recovery, which we hope will happen soon", he added.
Francis had enough energy on Wednesday to receive Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for a 20-minute visit at the Gemelli's special papal suite.
She later described him as "alert and responsive", saying in a statement: "We joked as always. He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humour."
<h2><hl2>Angelus uncertain</hl2></h2>
The pope has already cancelled his appointments on his calendar this week, including a Saturday audience and Sunday mass at St Peter's Basilica.
But it was still not clear whether the pope would give the traditional Angelus prayer at midday.
Francis missed it last Sunday, but has during previous spells from hospital delivered it from the Gemelli balcony.
"We still don't know how it will work," said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni on Thursday.
The double-pneumonia diagnosis for the pope comes after a series of health issues in recent years: from colon and hernia surgery to problems walking and pain in his hip and knee.
The Vatican has been issuing regular updates, however banal, in a bid to counter widespread speculation -- particularly online -- that he is dying or even dead.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-could-be-the-next-pontiff-after-pope-francis-heres-the-list-of-potential-successors-8737312">Who could be the next pontiff after Pope Francis? Here's the list of potential&nbsp;successors</a>
Wednesday evening's statement pointed to a modest change for the better.
"The blood tests, evaluated by the medical staff, show a slight improvement, particularly in inflammatory indices," read the statement.
Following breakfast, Francis "dedicated himself to work activities with his closest collaborators", it added.
A Vatican source had on Wednesday said the pope was "breathing on his own. His heart is holding up very well".
<h2><hl2>'Confident he'll make it'</hl2></h2>
The pope, who has been head of the Catholic Church since 2013, keeps a full schedule despite his age and ailments, and this year is busy with celebrations of the holy Jubilee year.
But in the days before his hospital admission, he was struggling to read his homilies.
The pontiff -- whose birth name is Jorge Bergoglio -- had part of his right lung cut away when he was 21, after developing pleurisy that almost killed him.
Candles, some with pictures of the pope on them, have been set at the bottom of a statue of Pope John Paul II outside the Gemelli hospital.
In St Peter's Square on Thursday, Romanian tourist Suzanna Munteanu told AFP she worried over Francis's health but was "confident that he will make it.
"I love this pope... Pope Bergoglio, very much, and he's very dear to me, especially that he cares for the poor people, and I do hope he will recover very soon," she added.
The pope has left open the option of resigning were he to become unable to carry out his duties, as his predecessor, Benedict XVI, did.
But in a memoir last year, Francis said it was just a "distant possibility" that would be justified only in the event of "a serious physical impediment".
French Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline told reporters Thursday that "of course there is worry, it's normal.
"I'm not worried about his lucidity," Aveline said, adding that the pope was "a fighter", in the sense of "his relationship with the Lord and what he understands of what he must do".
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 88-year-old was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Friday with bronchitis, but it later developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking widespread alarm.

Pope Francis spent his seventh day in hospital on Thursday, where he is being treated for pneumonia, as cardinals expressed their concern but not alarm at his condition. The 88-year-old was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Friday with bronchitis, but it later developed into pneumonia in both lungs, sparking widespread alarm. In a morning update Thursday, the Vatican said he had spent a peaceful night in hospital, "got up and had breakfast in his armchair". The evening before, the Vatican said the pope's blood tests had shown a "slight improvement" and his clinical conditions were stable. Also read: Pope Francis' funeral ‘being rehearsed’ as Swiss Guard 'prepare'; Italy PM Meloni visits pontiff: Reports Vatican sources said that despite his illness the Argentine pope was still trying to work, reading and signing documents, writing, speaking with colleagues and keeping up with the news. "We are all worried about the pope," said Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, head of Italy's bishops conference. But the fact that Francis was eating and meeting people "means that we are on the right path to a full recovery, which we hope will happen soon", he added. Francis had enough energy on Wednesday to receive Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for a 20-minute visit at the Gemelli's special papal suite. She later described him as "alert and responsive", saying in a statement: "We joked as always. He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humour." Angelus uncertain The pope has already cancelled his appointments on his calendar this week, including a Saturday audience and Sunday mass at St Peter's Basilica. But it was still not clear whether the pope would give the traditional Angelus prayer at midday. Francis missed it last Sunday, but has during previous spells from hospital delivered it from the Gemelli balcony. "We still don't know how it will work," said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni on Thursday. The double-pneumonia diagnosis for the pope comes after a series of health issues in recent years: from colon and hernia surgery to problems walking and pain in his hip and knee. The Vatican has been issuing regular updates, however banal, in a bid to counter widespread speculation -- particularly online -- that he is dying or even dead. Also read: Who could be the next pontiff after Pope Francis? Here's the list of potential successors Wednesday evening's statement pointed to a modest change for the better. "The blood tests, evaluated by the medical staff, show a slight improvement, particularly in inflammatory indices," read the statement. Following breakfast, Francis "dedicated himself to work activities with his closest collaborators", it added. A Vatican source had on Wednesday said the pope was "breathing on his own. His heart is holding up very well". 'Confident he'll make it' The pope, who has been head of the Catholic Church since 2013, keeps a full schedule despite his age and ailments, and this year is busy with celebrations of the holy Jubilee year. But in the days before his hospital admission, he was struggling to read his homilies. The pontiff -- whose birth name is Jorge Bergoglio -- had part of his right lung cut away when he was 21, after developing pleurisy that almost killed him. Candles, some with pictures of the pope on them, have been set at the bottom of a statue of Pope John Paul II outside the Gemelli hospital. In St Peter's Square on Thursday, Romanian tourist Suzanna Munteanu told AFP she worried over Francis's health but was "confident that he will make it. "I love this pope... Pope Bergoglio, very much, and he's very dear to me, especially that he cares for the poor people, and I do hope he will recover very soon," she added. The pope has left open the option of resigning were he to become unable to carry out his duties, as his predecessor, Benedict XVI, did. But in a memoir last year, Francis said it was just a "distant possibility" that would be justified only in the event of "a serious physical impediment". French Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline told reporters Thursday that "of course there is worry, it's normal. "I'm not worried about his lucidity," Aveline said, adding that the pope was "a fighter", in the sense of "his relationship with the Lord and what he understands of what he must do". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pope Francis health update: Pontiff 'sitting up, eating' on seventh day in hospital

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages.
In other news, new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has announced cabinet portfolio allocation.
Meanwhile, the US envoy has cancelled a press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages. In other news, new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has announced cabinet portfolio allocation. Meanwhile, the US envoy has cancelled a press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words Click on the headlines for more 'Death cult': Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it 'parades dead bodies' of Israeli hostages Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages. Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what Following her grand swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20) at the Ramlila Maidan, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta assumed duties as the chief minister of Delhi. US envoy cancels press conference in Kyiv after meeting with Zelensky as both nations engage in war of words Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Feb 20) is meeting US envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv as the American diplomat is on a three-day visit to the war-torn country. US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation’s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift. FDA scientists told not to use words ‘women’, ‘disabled’, ‘elderly’; White House calls it ‘error’ Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter. Does Trump’s decision to dismantle USAID risk mpox global emergency? Here’s what experts say The Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and stop funding for global public health efforts may increase the risk of mpox becoming a global emergency, according to experts and aid workers. ‘Most decorated dog in US history’: White House hero Hurricane dies at 15 K-9 Hurricane, a 15-year-old Belgian Malinois who helped ensure the safety of the White House, died this week. Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv? 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. ‘They’re mocking our lord!’ Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in a musical, netizens slam Cynthia Erivo will play Jesus Christ, but netizens don’t seem too thrilled about the news, calling the casting blasphemous. The Hollywood actress, who was last seen in the Oscar-nominated movie Wicked, is set to portray Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl this summer. LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets in Dubai Team India start their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Thursday (Feb 20) field first against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. One of the favourites to win the Champions Trophy 2025, India aim to start their campaign on a high before they square off against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (Feb 23). On the other hand, Bangladesh will have a point to prove having reached the semis in the last edition of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Top 10 world news: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas; Delhi CM announces portfolio allocation, and more

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.
Recent comments by US President Donald Trump, in which he suggested Ukraine was to blame for starting the war, sparked outrage among Ukrainians.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
Trump made the comments while addressing reporters on February 18 at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, following US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia about ending the war.&nbsp;
Dismissing concerns that Ukraine had been excluded from the negotiations, he said, &ldquo;I think I have the power to end this war, and I think it&rsquo;s going very well. But today I heard [from Ukraine], &lsquo;Oh well, we weren&rsquo;t invited.&rsquo; Well, you&rsquo;ve been there for three years. You should have ended it three years &ndash; you should have never started it, you could have made a deal.&rdquo;
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded on Wednesday, saying that Russia was spreading disinformation.
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>
<h2>Who started the Russia-Ukraine war?</h2>
The war began when Russian troops crossed the Ukrainian border on February 24, 2022. Putin justified the invasion with claims that it was necessary to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO.
However, tensions between the two nations had been escalating for years. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine&rsquo;s Donbas region, leading to a conflict that lasted for years and resulted in thousands of deaths.
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>
By early 2022, Russia had positioned around 150,000 soldiers along Ukraine&rsquo;s borders under the guise of military exercises. Despite assurances from Moscow that there were no plans for an invasion, Russian forces launched airstrikes and crossed into Ukraine on February 24. Putin declared the invasion a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; at 6 am Moscow time.
&ldquo;The purpose of this operation is to protect people who, for eight years now, have been facing humiliation and genocide perpetrated by the Kyiv regime,&rdquo; he said in a televised speech.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-slams-trump-for-living-in-disinformation-bubble-after-false-claim-on-approval-rating-8736468" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Unfortunate&rsquo;: Zelensky slams Trump for living in &lsquo;disinformation bubble&rsquo; after false claim on approval rating</a>
He added, &ldquo;To this end, we will seek to demilitarise and denazify Ukraine, as well as bring to trial those who perpetrated numerous bloody crimes against civilians, including against citizens of the Russian Federation.&rdquo;
For years, Putin had dismissed Ukraine&rsquo;s sovereignty, claiming that Ukrainians were merely Russians who needed to be reintegrated into Russia.
<h2>Where do we stand now? The human cost of Russia-Ukraine war</h2>
The war has taken a devastating toll. While exact figures remain uncertain, Zelensky recently said that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed since the full-scale invasion began. He also added that &ldquo;tens of thousands&rdquo; of civilians had lost their lives in Russian-occupied areas.
On the Russian side, the most recent official figures from Moscow, released in January 2023, reported just over 6,000 military deaths. However, US and UK estimates suggest the real number is far higher.

Putin justified the invasion with claims that it was necessary to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. World, Ukraine war

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. Recent comments by US President Donald Trump, in which he suggested Ukraine was to blame for starting the war, sparked outrage among Ukrainians. Also read: 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year Trump made the comments while addressing reporters on February 18 at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, following US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia about ending the war. Dismissing concerns that Ukraine had been excluded from the negotiations, he said, “I think I have the power to end this war, and I think it’s going very well. But today I heard [from Ukraine], ‘Oh well, we weren’t invited.’ Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should have ended it three years – you should have never started it, you could have made a deal.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded on Wednesday, saying that Russia was spreading disinformation. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war Who started the Russia-Ukraine war? The war began when Russian troops crossed the Ukrainian border on February 24, 2022. Putin justified the invasion with claims that it was necessary to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. However, tensions between the two nations had been escalating for years. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, leading to a conflict that lasted for years and resulted in thousands of deaths. Also read: ‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on By early 2022, Russia had positioned around 150,000 soldiers along Ukraine’s borders under the guise of military exercises. Despite assurances from Moscow that there were no plans for an invasion, Russian forces launched airstrikes and crossed into Ukraine on February 24. Putin declared the invasion a “special military operation” at 6 am Moscow time. “The purpose of this operation is to protect people who, for eight years now, have been facing humiliation and genocide perpetrated by the Kyiv regime,” he said in a televised speech. Also read: ‘Unfortunate’: Zelensky slams Trump for living in ‘disinformation bubble’ after false claim on approval rating He added, “To this end, we will seek to demilitarise and denazify Ukraine, as well as bring to trial those who perpetrated numerous bloody crimes against civilians, including against citizens of the Russian Federation.” For years, Putin had dismissed Ukraine’s sovereignty, claiming that Ukrainians were merely Russians who needed to be reintegrated into Russia. Where do we stand now? The human cost of Russia-Ukraine war The war has taken a devastating toll. While exact figures remain uncertain, Zelensky recently said that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed since the full-scale invasion began. He also added that “tens of thousands” of civilians had lost their lives in Russian-occupied areas. On the Russian side, the most recent official figures from Moscow, released in January 2023, reported just over 6,000 military deaths. However, US and UK estimates suggest the real number is far higher.

Three years of Russia-Ukraine war: Who started it - Kremlin or Kyiv?

The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation&rsquo;s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift.
The move mirrors the growing rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, who is trying to end the war in Ukraine. Recently, top US and Russian officials held talks in Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Riyadh, without any leaders from Kyiv or Europe.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-govt-should-take-over-washington-dc-trump-slams-city-government-for-not-doing-the-job-8740194">Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job'</a>
<h2>Draft resolution for UNGA</h2>
According to Reuters, the draft resolution for the UN General Assembly condemns Russian aggression and reaffirms a commitment &ldquo;to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.&rdquo;
The US decision not to co-sponsor the motion is a major blow to Ukraine, which has used tens of billions of dollars of US military aid agreed upon under former president Joe Biden's administration.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-military-spy-suggests-ceasefire-with-russia-could-happen-this-year-8740476">'How long, how effective?' Ukraine&rsquo;s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year</a>
&ldquo;In previous years, the United States has consistently co-sponsored such resolutions in support of a just peace in Ukraine,&rdquo; a source told Reuters on Thursday (Feb 20).
According to the report, the resolution was being sponsored by over 50 nations. However, the source did not identify which countries.
While the deadline to back the draft resolution is not clear, a source said, &ldquo;For now, the situation is they (the US) won't sign it.&rdquo;
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>
<h2>White House adviser urges Ukraine to &lsquo;tone down&rsquo;</h2>
Meanwhile, the White House continued its efforts to bring the Russia-Ukraine conflict to an end, urging Kyiv to rein in criticism and sign a minerals deal introduced by Trump.
&ldquo;They need to tone it down and take a hard look and sign that deal,&rdquo; Mike Waltz, the White House national security adviser, said in an interview with Fox News. He added that the pushback from Ukraine on the deal is simply unacceptable given everything the US has done for Ukraine.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-excluding-ukraine-from-talks-putin-says-negotiations-key-priority-for-russia-8737304">&lsquo;Nobody excluding Ukraine from talks,&rsquo; Putin says negotiations &lsquo;key priority for Russia&rsquo;</a>
Waltz&rsquo;s remarks come a day after Trump and Zelensky exchanged insults, with Trump calling the Ukrainian leader a dictator and Zelensky saying that the US President was living in a disinformation bubble. However, Waltz said that differences between the US and Ukraine were not irreconcilable, saying &ldquo;The president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people.&rdquo;
Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted in the talks, saying, &ldquo;There&rsquo;s a term for this in diplomacy. It's called shuttle diplomacy, because bringing everybody to the table at once just hasn't worked in the past.&rdquo;
&ldquo;So we&rsquo;ve engaged one side, we&rsquo;ve engaged the other side, and then we&rsquo;re going to have a process moving forward under President Trump&rsquo;s direction and leadership.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The move mirrors the growing rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, who is trying to end the war in Ukraine.

The United States is refusing to co-sponsor a draft United Nations (UN) resolution that backs Kyiv's territorial integrity and condemns Russian aggression, reported Reuters, citing three diplomatic sources. This motion marks three years of the Ukraine war as the nation’s most powerful Western ally suggests a potential start shift. The move mirrors the growing rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, who is trying to end the war in Ukraine. Recently, top US and Russian officials held talks in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, without any leaders from Kyiv or Europe. Also read | Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job' Draft resolution for UNGA According to Reuters, the draft resolution for the UN General Assembly condemns Russian aggression and reaffirms a commitment “to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.” The US decision not to co-sponsor the motion is a major blow to Ukraine, which has used tens of billions of dollars of US military aid agreed upon under former president Joe Biden's administration. Also read | 'How long, how effective?' Ukraine’s military spy suggests ceasefire with Russia could happen this year “In previous years, the United States has consistently co-sponsored such resolutions in support of a just peace in Ukraine,” a source told Reuters on Thursday (Feb 20). According to the report, the resolution was being sponsored by over 50 nations. However, the source did not identify which countries. While the deadline to back the draft resolution is not clear, a source said, “For now, the situation is they (the US) won't sign it.” Also read | Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report White House adviser urges Ukraine to ‘tone down’ Meanwhile, the White House continued its efforts to bring the Russia-Ukraine conflict to an end, urging Kyiv to rein in criticism and sign a minerals deal introduced by Trump. “They need to tone it down and take a hard look and sign that deal,” Mike Waltz, the White House national security adviser, said in an interview with Fox News. He added that the pushback from Ukraine on the deal is simply unacceptable given everything the US has done for Ukraine. Also read | ‘Nobody excluding Ukraine from talks,’ Putin says negotiations ‘key priority for Russia’ Waltz’s remarks come a day after Trump and Zelensky exchanged insults, with Trump calling the Ukrainian leader a dictator and Zelensky saying that the US President was living in a disinformation bubble. However, Waltz said that differences between the US and Ukraine were not irreconcilable, saying “The president also said how much he loves the Ukrainian people.” Waltz also denied that US allies and Ukraine were not being consulted in the talks, saying, “There’s a term for this in diplomacy. It's called shuttle diplomacy, because bringing everybody to the table at once just hasn't worked in the past.” “So we’ve engaged one side, we’ve engaged the other side, and then we’re going to have a process moving forward under President Trump’s direction and leadership.” (With inputs from agencies)

US refuses to co-sponsor UN draft resolution backing Ukraine: Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages.&nbsp;
The hostages included a baby and a small child.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,&rdquo; government spokesman David Mencer told journalists.
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>
<h2>Netanyahu vows vengeance&nbsp;</h2>
Israeli PM Netanyahu, in a message of victory over Hamas, said, &ldquo;We are all united in unbearable grief.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;We all ache with pain that is mixed with rage. We are all furious at the monsters of Hamas,&rdquo; he said, adding that Israel must &ldquo;settle the score with the vile murderers&mdash;and we will settle the score.&rdquo;
The Israeli PM promised to achieve the longstanding goals of the war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-of-grief-for-israel-says-netanyahu-as-hamas-confirms-youngest-hostage-kfir-bibass-body-among-dead-to-be-released-today-8738314">&lsquo;Day of grief&rsquo;, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas&rsquo;s body</a>
&ldquo;We will bring back all our hostages, destroy the murderers, eliminate Hamas, and together&mdash;with God&rsquo;s help&mdash;we will secure our future,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
<h2>'Hamas will be destroyed'&nbsp;</h2>
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
&ldquo;The heart of the entire nation is mourning today,&rdquo; Katz posted on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-will-release-all-remaining-israeli-hostages-in-single-swap-during-second-phase-of-gaza-agreement-8737579">Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce</a>
&ldquo;Hamas abducted, Hamas murdered, Hamas will be destroyed,&rdquo; he stressed, adding that Israel will take revenge against their enemies and secure its future.
Hamas on Thursday (Feb 20) revealed black coffins in southern Gaza, displaying the names and photos of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, pinned to the casket.
According to Hamas, the bodies handed over include those of Oded Lifshitz, 83, along with 32-year-old Shiri Bibas and her two children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were taken hostage.
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>
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: “Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,” government spokesman David Mencer told journalists.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages. The hostages included a baby and a small child. “Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,” government spokesman David Mencer told journalists. Also read: ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies Netanyahu vows vengeance Israeli PM Netanyahu, in a message of victory over Hamas, said, “We are all united in unbearable grief.” “We all ache with pain that is mixed with rage. We are all furious at the monsters of Hamas,” he said, adding that Israel must “settle the score with the vile murderers—and we will settle the score.” The Israeli PM promised to achieve the longstanding goals of the war. Also read: ‘Day of grief’, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas’s body “We will bring back all our hostages, destroy the murderers, eliminate Hamas, and together—with God’s help—we will secure our future,” he added. 'Hamas will be destroyed' Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant group Hamas. “The heart of the entire nation is mourning today,” Katz posted on X. Also read: Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce “Hamas abducted, Hamas murdered, Hamas will be destroyed,” he stressed, adding that Israel will take revenge against their enemies and secure its future. Hamas on Thursday (Feb 20) revealed black coffins in southern Gaza, displaying the names and photos of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, pinned to the casket. According to Hamas, the bodies handed over include those of Oded Lifshitz, 83, along with 32-year-old Shiri Bibas and her two children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were taken hostage. Also read: 'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages (With inputs from agencies)

‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages

The Trump administration&rsquo;s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and stop funding for global public health efforts may increase the risk of mpox becoming a global emergency, according to experts and aid workers.
Experts have warned that freezing the funds could exacerbate the spread of mpox. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern last year in August as cases surged in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and spread to other African countries. USAID has been working to contain the outbreak through vaccination, testing, and surveillance.
Until weeks ago, the United States has been leading response efforts, with USAID and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) contributing $55 million in emergency assistance last year.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a real mistake not to be doing everything we can to control this while we&rsquo;re still able to,&rdquo; The Guardian quoted Stephen Morse as saying, who is a professor of epidemiology at Columbia University focusing on risk assessment of infectious diseases. &ldquo;Taking huge steps backwards is only going to make everything worse.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-alludes-to-usaid-interference-in-indias-elections-they-were-trying-to-get-somebody-else-elected-8738323">Trump alludes to USAID interference in India's elections: 'They were trying to get somebody else elected'</a>
According to an aid worker, the funding freeze has resulted in some provinces in the country, which depend solely on USAID funds, being stripped of any resources to contain the virus.
&ldquo;We were working on creating a sustainable system that can respond not just to the current mpox outbreak but can be used in the future for any other outbreak, and now we&rsquo;re not sure if that will succeed,&rdquo; said a USAID worker with knowledge of the mpox response, according to The Guardian report.
&ldquo;Just like all these increased cases of Ebola and Marburg in neighbouring countries, it&rsquo;s not if, but when the next one in the DRC will be and how the country is going to be ready.&rdquo;
<h2>Risk of global spread of disease</h2>
Experts have stressed that reducing the aid will not only increase the risk of mpox spreading to other countries but could also increase the chances of mpox of other pandemics reaching the US.
&ldquo;Disaster and catastrophe are the appropriate words for shutting down USAID,&rdquo; a US-based researcher told the Guardian. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not just about people overseas who will be affected, but there&rsquo;s a likelihood of mpox or the next pandemic spreading to the United States.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-blocks-trumps-foreign-aid-freeze-as-usaid-faces-mass-layoffs-8721486">Judge blocks Trump&rsquo;s foreign aid freeze as USAID faces mass layoffs</a>
In 2022, a global outbreak of mpox led to over 100,000 being infected in 122 countries, marking the first time the virus spread outside Africa.
While US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued guidance allowing life-saving assistance through a waiver, USAID workers said no waiver has been approved to continue mpox programmes in the DRC, the report added. Experts argue that this unpredictability makes it challenging to run a disease control programme.
<h2>Legal challenges</h2>
Trump&rsquo;s order has also faced legal troubles, with one federal judge recently ruling to halt the move, giving the government five days to comply. However, aid workers expressed that the ruling has created confusion on how to restart programmes, which may face further cuts in future.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-fires-usaid-inspector-general-report-8714191">US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report</a>
USAID workers have also shared how the current situation has been affecting them as their careers remain in limbo after being brought to the US from DRC.
&ldquo;I have been experiencing health consequences related to extreme stress, anguish, and sleep deprivation due to worrying about staff, partners, and the situation in general in DRC and not being able to respond in the way that I normally would,&rdquo; a USAID employee said, as quoted by The Guardian.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Experts have stressed that reducing the aid will not only increase the risk of mpox spreading to other countries but could also increase the chances of mpox or other pandemics reaching the US.

The Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and stop funding for global public health efforts may increase the risk of mpox becoming a global emergency, according to experts and aid workers. Experts have warned that freezing the funds could exacerbate the spread of mpox. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern last year in August as cases surged in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and spread to other African countries. USAID has been working to contain the outbreak through vaccination, testing, and surveillance. Until weeks ago, the United States has been leading response efforts, with USAID and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) contributing $55 million in emergency assistance last year. “It’s a real mistake not to be doing everything we can to control this while we’re still able to,” The Guardian quoted Stephen Morse as saying, who is a professor of epidemiology at Columbia University focusing on risk assessment of infectious diseases. “Taking huge steps backwards is only going to make everything worse.” Also read | Trump alludes to USAID interference in India's elections: 'They were trying to get somebody else elected' According to an aid worker, the funding freeze has resulted in some provinces in the country, which depend solely on USAID funds, being stripped of any resources to contain the virus. “We were working on creating a sustainable system that can respond not just to the current mpox outbreak but can be used in the future for any other outbreak, and now we’re not sure if that will succeed,” said a USAID worker with knowledge of the mpox response, according to The Guardian report. “Just like all these increased cases of Ebola and Marburg in neighbouring countries, it’s not if, but when the next one in the DRC will be and how the country is going to be ready.” Risk of global spread of disease Experts have stressed that reducing the aid will not only increase the risk of mpox spreading to other countries but could also increase the chances of mpox of other pandemics reaching the US. “Disaster and catastrophe are the appropriate words for shutting down USAID,” a US-based researcher told the Guardian. “It’s not just about people overseas who will be affected, but there’s a likelihood of mpox or the next pandemic spreading to the United States.” Also read | Judge blocks Trump’s foreign aid freeze as USAID faces mass layoffs In 2022, a global outbreak of mpox led to over 100,000 being infected in 122 countries, marking the first time the virus spread outside Africa. While US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued guidance allowing life-saving assistance through a waiver, USAID workers said no waiver has been approved to continue mpox programmes in the DRC, the report added. Experts argue that this unpredictability makes it challenging to run a disease control programme. Legal challenges Trump’s order has also faced legal troubles, with one federal judge recently ruling to halt the move, giving the government five days to comply. However, aid workers expressed that the ruling has created confusion on how to restart programmes, which may face further cuts in future. Also read | US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report USAID workers have also shared how the current situation has been affecting them as their careers remain in limbo after being brought to the US from DRC. “I have been experiencing health consequences related to extreme stress, anguish, and sleep deprivation due to worrying about staff, partners, and the situation in general in DRC and not being able to respond in the way that I normally would,” a USAID employee said, as quoted by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies)

Does Trump’s decision to dismantle USAID risk mpox global emergency? Here’s what experts say

Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter.&nbsp;
The FDA scientists said that a list with the file name "prohibited words" has been circulating since at least last week in official chats.&nbsp;
As the issue came under the spotlight, the White House spokesman said that a part of the list of banned terms had misinterpreted President Donald Trump's executive order.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deloitte-orders-us-staff-to-remove-gender-pronouns-from-email-amid-trumps-crackdown-on-transgenders-8712132">Deloitte orders US staff to remove gender pronouns from email amid Trump's crackdown on transgenders</a>
The list is creating further confusion at an agency struggling with the Trump administration's sweeping firings.&nbsp;
Two FDA scientists, who requested anonymity, said that neither they nor their managers knew who issued the directive or why many of the more than two dozen words were included.&nbsp;
"I don't understand why we can't use a word like 'woman'," one FDA source who received the list told Reuters. "The words on the list would make it almost impossible to do our jobs."
The list reviewed by Reuters includes words like underrepresented, underserved, understudied, sex, identity, diverse, women, woman, promote, definition, continuum, ideology, self-assessed, special populations, elderly, and disabled.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/transgenders-people-with-history-of-gender-dysphoria-can-no-longer-join-us-military-defense-secretary-hegseth-memo-enforces-trumps-order-8709166">Transgenders, people with 'history of gender dysphoria' can no longer join US military: Hegseth memo</a>
Meanwhile, in recent weeks, another federal health agency was told to remove words such as gender, transgender, LGBT, and nonbinary from its communications to ensure that they comply with executive orders.&nbsp;
To follow the order, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention removed publicly available health information, including HIV datasets, and withdrew research papers that were being considered for publication in scientific journals for review by Trump appointees.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-transgenders-woe-as-passport-process-gets-complicated-for-them-amid-trumps-new-policy-8703305">Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy</a>
<h2>White House calls it an &lsquo;error&rsquo;</h2>
The White House spokesman told Reuters that most of the words on the FDA list did not need to be removed from communications, adding that an error may have resulted from the FDA officials misinterpreting Trump's executive order against "gender ideology."
Further clarifying, the spokesman said that the FDA does need to prohibit the use of the words gender, inclusion, identity, diversity, inter, intersex, equity, equitable, transgender, and trans to comply with the order.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-banning-transgender-from-female-sports-8694059">Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports</a>
<h2>Public health experts react</h2>
The experts stressed that such a move can threaten their ability to address all kinds of medical needs as they affect different groups, including those with HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.&nbsp;
Moreover, the two FDA sources said that their colleagues told them the list had originated within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, which has more than 2,000 workers and is tasked with ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical devices.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: As the issue came under the spotlight, the White House spokesman said that a part of the list of banned terms had misinterpreted President Donald Trump’s executive order.

Some of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists have been told to stop using the words "woman", "disabled", and "elderly" in external communications, Reuters reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter. The FDA scientists said that a list with the file name "prohibited words" has been circulating since at least last week in official chats. As the issue came under the spotlight, the White House spokesman said that a part of the list of banned terms had misinterpreted President Donald Trump's executive order. Also read: Deloitte orders US staff to remove gender pronouns from email amid Trump's crackdown on transgenders The list is creating further confusion at an agency struggling with the Trump administration's sweeping firings. Two FDA scientists, who requested anonymity, said that neither they nor their managers knew who issued the directive or why many of the more than two dozen words were included. "I don't understand why we can't use a word like 'woman'," one FDA source who received the list told Reuters. "The words on the list would make it almost impossible to do our jobs." The list reviewed by Reuters includes words like underrepresented, underserved, understudied, sex, identity, diverse, women, woman, promote, definition, continuum, ideology, self-assessed, special populations, elderly, and disabled. Also read: Transgenders, people with 'history of gender dysphoria' can no longer join US military: Hegseth memo Meanwhile, in recent weeks, another federal health agency was told to remove words such as gender, transgender, LGBT, and nonbinary from its communications to ensure that they comply with executive orders. To follow the order, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention removed publicly available health information, including HIV datasets, and withdrew research papers that were being considered for publication in scientific journals for review by Trump appointees. Also read: Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy White House calls it an ‘error’ The White House spokesman told Reuters that most of the words on the FDA list did not need to be removed from communications, adding that an error may have resulted from the FDA officials misinterpreting Trump's executive order against "gender ideology." Further clarifying, the spokesman said that the FDA does need to prohibit the use of the words gender, inclusion, identity, diversity, inter, intersex, equity, equitable, transgender, and trans to comply with the order. Also read: Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports Public health experts react The experts stressed that such a move can threaten their ability to address all kinds of medical needs as they affect different groups, including those with HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. Moreover, the two FDA sources said that their colleagues told them the list had originated within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, which has more than 2,000 workers and is tasked with ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical devices. (With inputs from agencies)

FDA scientists told not to use words ‘women’, ‘disabled’, ‘elderly’; White House calls it ‘error’

Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at stopping federal benefits for people living in the US illegally. The move is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration policies.
The White House said that the order seeks to eliminate &ldquo;all taxpayer-funded benefits for illegal aliens.&rdquo; However, it remains unclear which specific benefits will be affected. 
"The Order directs Federal departments and agencies to identify all federally funded programs currently providing financial benefits to illegal aliens and take corrective action," the White House fact sheet on the order said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-govt-should-take-over-washington-dc-trump-slams-city-government-for-not-doing-the-job-8740194" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job'</a>
Generally, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for federal benefits, apart from emergency medical care. Additionally, under a 1982 Supreme Court ruling, all children, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to free K-12 public education.
&ldquo;Over the last 4 years, in particular, the prior administration repeatedly undercut the goals of that law, resulting in the improper expenditure of significant taxpayer resources,&rdquo; the order states referring to a 1996 welfare law that restricted most public benefits for undocumented immigrants.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appeals-court-blocks-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order-8739720" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US appeals court blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order</a>
Trump is targeting policies introduced under former President Joe Biden, particularly his use of parole authority to allow migrants to enter the US temporarily. 
This included over 900,000 individuals who used an online appointment system, CBP One, at the southern border,&nbsp;as well as more than 500,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans who arrived by air with financial sponsors. Trump has now terminated both programs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-reveals-this-pushed-him-to-endorse-republican-donald-trump-during-2024-us-elections-8735334" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Elon Musk reveals THIS pushed him to endorse Donald Trump during 2024 US elections</a>
Biden also used parole to admit nearly 300,000 people from Ukraine and Afghanistan. Those granted parole for at least a year are classified as &ldquo;qualified non-citizens,&rdquo; making them eligible for certain income-based benefits after five years, including Medicaid and the Children&rsquo;s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Trump&rsquo;s order directs all federal departments and agencies to review benefit programs and identify any spending that does not align with the 1996 welfare law. 
"It ensures that Federal funds to states and localities will not be used to support &ldquo;sanctuary&rdquo; policies or assist illegal immigration," the White House statement added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: White House said that the order seeks to eliminate “all taxpayer-funded benefits for illegal aliens.” However, it remains unclear which specific benefits will be affected.

Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at stopping federal benefits for people living in the US illegally. The move is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration policies. The White House said that the order seeks to eliminate “all taxpayer-funded benefits for illegal aliens.” However, it remains unclear which specific benefits will be affected. "The Order directs Federal departments and agencies to identify all federally funded programs currently providing financial benefits to illegal aliens and take corrective action," the White House fact sheet on the order said. Also read: Federal govt should 'take over' Washington, DC: Trump slams city government for 'not doing the job' Generally, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for federal benefits, apart from emergency medical care. Additionally, under a 1982 Supreme Court ruling, all children, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to free K-12 public education. “Over the last 4 years, in particular, the prior administration repeatedly undercut the goals of that law, resulting in the improper expenditure of significant taxpayer resources,” the order states referring to a 1996 welfare law that restricted most public benefits for undocumented immigrants. Also read: US appeals court blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order Trump is targeting policies introduced under former President Joe Biden, particularly his use of parole authority to allow migrants to enter the US temporarily. This included over 900,000 individuals who used an online appointment system, CBP One, at the southern border, as well as more than 500,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans who arrived by air with financial sponsors. Trump has now terminated both programs. Also read: Elon Musk reveals THIS pushed him to endorse Donald Trump during 2024 US elections Biden also used parole to admit nearly 300,000 people from Ukraine and Afghanistan. Those granted parole for at least a year are classified as “qualified non-citizens,” making them eligible for certain income-based benefits after five years, including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Trump’s order directs all federal departments and agencies to review benefit programs and identify any spending that does not align with the 1996 welfare law. "It ensures that Federal funds to states and localities will not be used to support “sanctuary” policies or assist illegal immigration," the White House statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘No taxpayer funds for illegal aliens’: Trump cuts off federal benefits for undocumented immigrants

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