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Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered India its fifth-generation stealth aircraft, Sukhoi Su-57, suggesting that the combat jet could even be jointly made with New Delhi in line with the strong strategic partnership between the two nations. The move came after persistent supply chain disruptions triggered by the war in Ukraine, which has forced India to aggressively diversify its military procurement strategy. After years of assessing several options for a fifth-generation fighter jet, India has embarked on the Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, widely regarded as the largest indigenous aerospace programme of the country. Against this backdrop, the Russian President reiterated Moscow's interest in partnering with New Delhi on the Su-57 aircraft programme. With the AMCA project unlikely to enter the Indian Air Force (IAF) before 2035, the government is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring at least two squadrons or around 36 Su-57s, subject to the aircraft meeting the technical and operational requirements.<h3>What is India's Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project?</h3>The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is the indigenous, fifth-generation, twin-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft of India, which is currently in the development phase for the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. The project is being designed to ensure India's air power, prompting the jet to feature low observable (stealth) technology, internal weapons bays, advanced avionics, and supercruise capabilities. The project is being spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), a body under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), representing a massive leap in the domestic defence capabilities of India. Traditionally, the production of flagship combat aircraft in India has been primarily led by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). However, the AMCA project marks a major structural shift by adopting a competitive consortium-based model. The Indian government has started actively bringing top private aerospace and defence manufacturing firms into the core of the project. The development aims to fulfil reduced developmental delays, build supply chain resilience, and rapidly scale up production.<h3>Why Russia's Su-57s before India's AMCA project?</h3>The primary reason is that the timelines simply do not match, as India's own AMCA fighter jet is not likely to be mass-produced and ready for actual combat until the mid-2030s. However, India's neighbours already have fast-growing fleets of stealth planes that include China, which has already deployed over 200 active J-20 stealth fighters and is currently testing its new, carrier-ready J-35, and Pakistan has shown clear interest in buying Chinese FC-31 stealth jets. This threatens to take away the long-standing technical advantage of the Indian Air Force along its western border as well as the border with China. Therefore, India urgently required a heavy stealth jet in order to keep its enemies in check. To meet this requirement, Russia’s upgraded Su-57 fighter, which comes with advanced Product 30 engines, is a ready-to-go option. It also fits perfectly with the massive repair and maintenance setups India already uses for its other Russian jets, like the Su-30MKI. In addition, buying Russian-made Su-57s could act as a smart temporary bridge as it will provide IAF's pilots immediate, real-world training in modern stealth tactics, advanced battlefield communication, and high-tech radar systems long before the first AMCA is even built. It will also act as a vital shield to protect Indian skies while the homegrown technology of India develops.

The AMCA project is being spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), a body under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), representing a massive leap in the domestic defence capabilities of India.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered India its fifth-generation stealth aircraft, Sukhoi Su-57, suggesting that the combat jet could even be jointly made with New Delhi in line with the strong strategic partnership between the two nations. The move came after persistent supply chain disruptions triggered by the war in Ukraine, which has forced India to aggressively diversify its military procurement strategy. After years of assessing several options for a fifth-generation fighter jet, India has embarked on the Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, widely regarded as the largest indigenous aerospace programme of the country. Against this backdrop, the Russian President reiterated Moscow's interest in partnering with New Delhi on the Su-57 aircraft programme. With the AMCA project unlikely to enter the Indian Air Force (IAF) before 2035, the government is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring at least two squadrons or around 36 Su-57s, subject to the aircraft meeting the technical and operational requirements. What is India's Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project? The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is the indigenous, fifth-generation, twin-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft of India, which is currently in the development phase for the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. The project is being designed to ensure India's air power, prompting the jet to feature low observable (stealth) technology, internal weapons bays, advanced avionics, and supercruise capabilities. The project is being spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), a body under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), representing a massive leap in the domestic defence capabilities of India. Traditionally, the production of flagship combat aircraft in India has been primarily led by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). However, the AMCA project marks a major structural shift by adopting a competitive consortium-based model. The Indian government has started actively bringing top private aerospace and defence manufacturing firms into the core of the project. The development aims to fulfil reduced developmental delays, build supply chain resilience, and rapidly scale up production. Why Russia's Su-57s before India's AMCA project? The primary reason is that the timelines simply do not match, as India's own AMCA fighter jet is not likely to be mass-produced and ready for actual combat until the mid-2030s. However, India's neighbours already have fast-growing fleets of stealth planes that include China, which has already deployed over 200 active J-20 stealth fighters and is currently testing its new, carrier-ready J-35, and Pakistan has shown clear interest in buying Chinese FC-31 stealth jets. This threatens to take away the long-standing technical advantage of the Indian Air Force along its western border as well as the border with China. Therefore, India urgently required a heavy stealth jet in order to keep its enemies in check. To meet this requirement, Russia’s upgraded Su-57 fighter, which comes with advanced Product 30 engines, is a ready-to-go option. It also fits perfectly with the massive repair and maintenance setups India already uses for its other Russian jets, like the Su-30MKI. In addition, buying Russian-made Su-57s could act as a smart temporary bridge as it will provide IAF's pilots immediate, real-world training in modern stealth tactics, advanced battlefield communication, and high-tech radar systems long before the first AMCA is even built. It will also act as a vital shield to protect Indian skies while the homegrown technology of India develops.

The AMCA project is being spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), a body under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), representing a massive leap in the domestic defence capabilities of India.

Why India may need Russian Su-57s before its indigenous AMCA project takes flight? WION decodes

Iran's navy on Friday said that it had fired warning missiles and drones at the US warships in the Gulf of Oman, accusing them of interfering with and harassing the maritime traffic. According to the military statements as reported by the state media, the operation was to counter the &nbsp;“malign activities, disruptions, and the hijacking of commercial vessels and oil tankers by the terrorist U.S. Navy.”The exchange comes as US forces captured the sanctioned stateless vessel M/T DAVINA in the Indian Ocean. According to statements by Iranian State media, the operations targeted the US guided-missile destroyers DDG-103 (USS Truxtun) and DDG-87 (USS Mason).The Iranian military reported that following the attacks by “Ghadir missiles and Nedaja’s new Shahid Dana attack drones,” the “aggressor” destroyers left the Gulf of Oman. The statement also added that the amphibious assault ship Tripoli was forced to leave the Gulf of Oman.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ivanka-trump-jared-kushner-albania-project-protests-corruption-investigation-1780649023401">Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's $1.4 billion Albania project sparks mass protests and corruption probe</a>“Despite the expansion and distancing of the enemy’s warships out of the range of the missiles used today, longer-range missiles of this force will be utilised if necessary,” warned the Operations Command and Control Centre of the Army Navy. In tandem with these operations, Iranian naval forces have declared the strategic Strait of Hormuz completely closed to unauthorised transit.Earlier, a group of 85 Iranian lawmakers had petitioned Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to authorise the large-scale development and mass production of the intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the mainland US. While there were several reports that Iran already has successfully tested or unveiled an ICBM, Western intelligence refuted these claims, citing a lack of definitive evidence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran says it launched missiles and drones at US warships in the Gulf of Oman and closed the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions after the seizure of a sanctioned vessel.

Iran's navy on Friday said that it had fired warning missiles and drones at the US warships in the Gulf of Oman, accusing them of interfering with and harassing the maritime traffic. According to the military statements as reported by the state media, the operation was to counter the “malign activities, disruptions, and the hijacking of commercial vessels and oil tankers by the terrorist U.S. Navy.” The exchange comes as US forces captured the sanctioned stateless vessel M/T DAVINA in the Indian Ocean. According to statements by Iranian State media, the operations targeted the US guided-missile destroyers DDG-103 (USS Truxtun) and DDG-87 (USS Mason). The Iranian military reported that following the attacks by “Ghadir missiles and Nedaja’s new Shahid Dana attack drones,” the “aggressor” destroyers left the Gulf of Oman. The statement also added that the amphibious assault ship Tripoli was forced to leave the Gulf of Oman. Also Read: Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's $1.4 billion Albania project sparks mass protests and corruption probe “Despite the expansion and distancing of the enemy’s warships out of the range of the missiles used today, longer-range missiles of this force will be utilised if necessary,” warned the Operations Command and Control Centre of the Army Navy. In tandem with these operations, Iranian naval forces have declared the strategic Strait of Hormuz completely closed to unauthorised transit. Earlier, a group of 85 Iranian lawmakers had petitioned Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to authorise the large-scale development and mass production of the intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the mainland US. While there were several reports that Iran already has successfully tested or unveiled an ICBM, Western intelligence refuted these claims, citing a lack of definitive evidence.

Iran says it launched missiles and drones at US warships in the Gulf of Oman and closed the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions after the seizure of a sanctioned vessel.

Iran says it fired missiles and drones at US warships in Gulf of Oman, claims USS Tripoli retreated

As climate change and environmental concerns start to take centre stage, several people are opting for sustainable, eco-friendly, or natural products. With a shift in consumer perspective, several brands have also introduced environmentally friendly products, flooding store shelves with green labels and promises. But are these items actually eco-friendly, or are we being fooled into believing a fake marketing gimmick by big brands, which are just “greenwashing” us?<h2>What is greenwashing?</h2>Many of the so-called sustainable and eco-friendly products in the market are not actually as green as they claim to be. Major companies, which are seizing every opportunity to make more money, are taking advantage of the fact that the consumer perspective has now shifted towards products that appear better for the environment and climate – “appear” being the keyword here.Regardless of whether a certain product is a better alternative for our planet, firms have been engaging in a marketing strategy called greenwashing.Greenwashing refers to the practice of misleading consumers into believing that a company, product, or service is more environmentally friendly than it actually is. The term was coined in the 1980s by environmentalist Jay Westerveld, who criticised hotels for encouraging guests to reuse towels in the name of environmental protection while making little effort to reduce their broader environmental footprint.In simple terms, greenwashing occurs when marketing and branding create an illusion of sustainability that is not supported by meaningful environmental action.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-decodes-what-is-godzilla-el-ni-o-and-how-can-it-impact-the-indian-monsoon-1780917581717">WION Decodes | What is 'Godzilla' El Niño and how can it impact the Indian monsoon?</a><h2>How companies make products appear ‘green’</h2>Today, greenwashing is widespread across industries. Companies often use vague terms such as “eco-friendly,” “natural,” “green,” or “sustainable” without providing evidence to support these claims. Others rely on green packaging, images of forests and leaves, or self-created environmental labels that create an impression of environmental responsibility.Some firms highlight a single environmentally friendly feature while ignoring larger sustainability issues associated with their operations, a tactic critics describe as “hidden trade-offs.”<h2>Industries under scrutiny</h2>Several sectors have come under increasing scrutiny for alleged greenwashing practices.The fashion industry is frequently accused of promoting “conscious” or “sustainable” collections while continuing production models that generate significant waste and pollution. Airlines often advertise carbon-neutral flights through offset programmes, despite aviation remaining one of the most carbon-intensive forms of transport.Similarly, major energy companies have faced criticism for promoting renewable energy initiatives in advertisements while continuing to derive much of their business from fossil fuel production.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-decodes-why-does-coffee-calm-some-people-instead-of-waking-them-up-here-s-what-science-says-1780995139137">WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says</a><h2>Regulatory measures</h2>Amid rising greenwashing, governments and regulators have stepped up to take action. The European Union has introduced stricter rules requiring businesses to substantiate environmental claims with credible evidence.In India, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has issued guidelines requiring environmental claims to be clear, specific, verifiable and backed by scientific proof. Regulators worldwide are increasingly demanding transparency to prevent consumers from being misled.<h2>How can you spot greenwashing?</h2>For consumers, identifying greenwashing can be difficult. Experts recommend looking beyond marketing slogans and examining whether a company provides measurable data, independent certifications and transparent sustainability reports.Warning signs may include vague environmental claims, a lack of evidence, and heavy reliance on buzzwords without clear explanations of environmental benefits.WATCH | G7 Summit 2026: World Leaders Gather For The High Stakes Summit In Evian-Les-Bains <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g7-summit-2026-world-leaders-gather-for-the-high-stakes-summit-in-evian-les-bains-1781592997144/embed/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/g7-summit-2026-world-leaders-gather-for-the-high-stakes-summit-in-evian-les-bains-1781592997144/embed/embed</a>

As demand for eco-friendly products grows, some companies exploit the trend through “greenwashing” using misleading labels and marketing to make products appear sustainable without delivering real environmental benefits. Here’s all you need to know.

As climate change and environmental concerns start to take centre stage, several people are opting for sustainable, eco-friendly, or natural products. With a shift in consumer perspective, several brands have also introduced environmentally friendly products, flooding store shelves with green labels and promises. But are these items actually eco-friendly, or are we being fooled into believing a fake marketing gimmick by big brands, which are just “greenwashing” us? What is greenwashing? Many of the so-called sustainable and eco-friendly products in the market are not actually as green as they claim to be. Major companies, which are seizing every opportunity to make more money, are taking advantage of the fact that the consumer perspective has now shifted towards products that appear better for the environment and climate – “appear” being the keyword here. Regardless of whether a certain product is a better alternative for our planet, firms have been engaging in a marketing strategy called greenwashing. Greenwashing refers to the practice of misleading consumers into believing that a company, product, or service is more environmentally friendly than it actually is. The term was coined in the 1980s by environmentalist Jay Westerveld, who criticised hotels for encouraging guests to reuse towels in the name of environmental protection while making little effort to reduce their broader environmental footprint. In simple terms, greenwashing occurs when marketing and branding create an illusion of sustainability that is not supported by meaningful environmental action. Also read | WION Decodes | What is 'Godzilla' El Niño and how can it impact the Indian monsoon? How companies make products appear ‘green’ Today, greenwashing is widespread across industries. Companies often use vague terms such as “eco-friendly,” “natural,” “green,” or “sustainable” without providing evidence to support these claims. Others rely on green packaging, images of forests and leaves, or self-created environmental labels that create an impression of environmental responsibility. Some firms highlight a single environmentally friendly feature while ignoring larger sustainability issues associated with their operations, a tactic critics describe as “hidden trade-offs.” Industries under scrutiny Several sectors have come under increasing scrutiny for alleged greenwashing practices. The fashion industry is frequently accused of promoting “conscious” or “sustainable” collections while continuing production models that generate significant waste and pollution. Airlines often advertise carbon-neutral flights through offset programmes, despite aviation remaining one of the most carbon-intensive forms of transport. Similarly, major energy companies have faced criticism for promoting renewable energy initiatives in advertisements while continuing to derive much of their business from fossil fuel production. Also read | WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says Regulatory measures Amid rising greenwashing, governments and regulators have stepped up to take action. The European Union has introduced stricter rules requiring businesses to substantiate environmental claims with credible evidence. In India, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has issued guidelines requiring environmental claims to be clear, specific, verifiable and backed by scientific proof. Regulators worldwide are increasingly demanding transparency to prevent consumers from being misled. How can you spot greenwashing? For consumers, identifying greenwashing can be difficult. Experts recommend looking beyond marketing slogans and examining whether a company provides measurable data, independent certifications and transparent sustainability reports. Warning signs may include vague environmental claims, a lack of evidence, and heavy reliance on buzzwords without clear explanations of environmental benefits. WATCH | G7 Summit 2026: World Leaders Gather For The High Stakes Summit In Evian-Les-Bains https://www.wionews.com/videos/g7-summit-2026-world-leaders-gather-for-the-high-stakes-summit-in-evian-les-bains-1781592997144/embed/embed

As demand for eco-friendly products grows, some companies exploit the trend through “greenwashing” using misleading labels and marketing to make products appear sustainable without delivering real environmental benefits. Here’s all you need to know.

Greenwashing: Are we being fooled into buying eco-friendly products that aren’t? WION Decodes

Anthropic, the AI company behind Claude, has warned that AI could start building itself and create its successor and that “full recursive self-improvement might increase the risks of humans losing control over AI systems.” A full recursive self-improvement refers to a stage where AI is able to improve itself without any human intervention and create a more powerful successor.&nbsp;&nbsp;The San Francisco-based firm also recommends a global pause on building the most powerful AI systems as the latest models are beginning to show signs they could evade human control.&nbsp;The company said that as it increasingly delegates AI developments to AI systems, there are signals that it leads to a future where “an AI system (is) capable of fully autonomously designing and developing its own successor.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hotel-owner-helped-bangladeshi-nationals-get-fake-indian-documents-was-arrested-booked-last-year-1780654502514">Delhi hotel owner helped Bangladeshi nationals get fake Indian documents, was arrested, booked last year</a><h2>‘Average engineer producing eight times more code per day than in 2024’</h2>&nbsp;Anthropic shared that Claude now writes most of the code used to build the company’s AI systems. As a result, engineers are able to get much more work done, with the average engineer producing around eight times more code each day than in 2024. Claude is not just getting better at coding, but it is also improving at research tasks.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anthropic, an outlier among AI companies, said trends suggest AI systems are going to become much more capable ahead. “These trends have huge implications. AI that can build itself would be a major development in the history of technology—one that could bring enormous good for the world in science, healthcare, and beyond,” it said.&nbsp;<h2>‘All AI companies need to come together to decide on pause’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;It argued that all AI companies need to come together to decide to “pause” frontier AI development but warned that if only one company stopped, rivals would simply race ahead. Getting a real pause to work would mean all major AI companies in multiple countries agreeing to stop at the same time, under rules everyone could actually verify, Anthropic added.“Without a global coordination mechanism, companies and governments will have to make difficult decisions about safety while under competitive and geopolitical pressures,” it said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/futile-to-try-pressuring-pm-modi-putin-says-india-us-relations-do-not-affect-ties-with-russia-1780597993055">‘Futile to try pressuring PM Modi’: Putin says India-US relations do not affect ties with Russia</a>&nbsp;“We believe it would be good for the world to have the option to slow or temporarily pause frontier AI development to enable societal structures and alignment research to keep up with the advance of the technology,” it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anthropic compared the problem to nuclear arms control treaties but said it would be even harder to monitor since AI training is far easier to hide than a missile silo, and the temptation to quietly keep going would be enormous.&nbsp;<h2>Multiple challenges ahead for ‘pause’ proposal</h2>&nbsp;The AI giant’s research arm, Anthropic Institute, plans to study and help build systems that would be necessary to support a slowdown. It also plans to organise discussions involving policymakers, researchers, civil society groups and other AI firms to examine key questions around how to tackle the issue at hand. These questions include how to manage AI-related risks such as recursive self-improvement and how to improve mechanisms for coordination.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-trump-nsa-john-bolton-to-plead-guilty-over-retaining-classified-documents-report-1780592120953">Former Trump NSA John Bolton to plead guilty over retaining classified documents: Report</a>&nbsp;The proposal would face an uphill battle in Washington and Silicon Valley, where US officials and tech executives have repeatedly argued that any slowdown in AI development risks handing China a decisive strategic edge in what many see as the defining technology race of the century.President Donald Trump also signed an executive order this week that allows the government 30 days to conduct a preliminary review of the most powerful US AI models before their release.&nbsp;The company stressed that such a stage has not yet arrived but argued that governments, regulators and society need to start preparing for it now.&nbsp;

Anthropic revealed that Claude now writes most of the code used to build the company’s AI systems, and as a result, engineers are able to get much more work done, with the average engineer producing around eight times more code each day than in 2024.

Anthropic, the AI company behind Claude, has warned that AI could start building itself and create its successor and that “full recursive self-improvement might increase the risks of humans losing control over AI systems.” A full recursive self-improvement refers to a stage where AI is able to improve itself without any human intervention and create a more powerful successor. The San Francisco-based firm also recommends a global pause on building the most powerful AI systems as the latest models are beginning to show signs they could evade human control. The company said that as it increasingly delegates AI developments to AI systems, there are signals that it leads to a future where “an AI system (is) capable of fully autonomously designing and developing its own successor.” Also Read: Delhi hotel owner helped Bangladeshi nationals get fake Indian documents, was arrested, booked last year ‘Average engineer producing eight times more code per day than in 2024’ Anthropic shared that Claude now writes most of the code used to build the company’s AI systems. As a result, engineers are able to get much more work done, with the average engineer producing around eight times more code each day than in 2024. Claude is not just getting better at coding, but it is also improving at research tasks. Anthropic, an outlier among AI companies, said trends suggest AI systems are going to become much more capable ahead. “These trends have huge implications. AI that can build itself would be a major development in the history of technology—one that could bring enormous good for the world in science, healthcare, and beyond,” it said. ‘All AI companies need to come together to decide on pause’ It argued that all AI companies need to come together to decide to “pause” frontier AI development but warned that if only one company stopped, rivals would simply race ahead. Getting a real pause to work would mean all major AI companies in multiple countries agreeing to stop at the same time, under rules everyone could actually verify, Anthropic added. “Without a global coordination mechanism, companies and governments will have to make difficult decisions about safety while under competitive and geopolitical pressures,” it said. Also Read: ‘Futile to try pressuring PM Modi’: Putin says India-US relations do not affect ties with Russia “We believe it would be good for the world to have the option to slow or temporarily pause frontier AI development to enable societal structures and alignment research to keep up with the advance of the technology,” it said. Anthropic compared the problem to nuclear arms control treaties but said it would be even harder to monitor since AI training is far easier to hide than a missile silo, and the temptation to quietly keep going would be enormous. Multiple challenges ahead for ‘pause’ proposal The AI giant’s research arm, Anthropic Institute, plans to study and help build systems that would be necessary to support a slowdown. It also plans to organise discussions involving policymakers, researchers, civil society groups and other AI firms to examine key questions around how to tackle the issue at hand. These questions include how to manage AI-related risks such as recursive self-improvement and how to improve mechanisms for coordination. Also Read: Former Trump NSA John Bolton to plead guilty over retaining classified documents: Report The proposal would face an uphill battle in Washington and Silicon Valley, where US officials and tech executives have repeatedly argued that any slowdown in AI development risks handing China a decisive strategic edge in what many see as the defining technology race of the century. President Donald Trump also signed an executive order this week that allows the government 30 days to conduct a preliminary review of the most powerful US AI models before their release. The company stressed that such a stage has not yet arrived but argued that governments, regulators and society need to start preparing for it now.

Anthropic revealed that Claude now writes most of the code used to build the company’s AI systems, and as a result, engineers are able to get much more work done, with the average engineer producing around eight times more code each day than in 2024.

‘Time for pause’: Humans may lose control on AI as it starts building itself, warns Anthropic

The New World screwworm, which was eradicated from the United States over 60 years ago, has been found inside a cow in Texas. It is a parasitic, flesh-eating creature that feeds on the living flesh of warm-blooded animals, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) said. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) was announced the discovery, triggering alarm about the return of the screwworm, also known as Cochliomyia hominivorax. The screwworms are the larvae, or maggots, of adult C. hominivorax flies.<h2>How do screwworms infest animals?</h2>&nbsp;Adult flies search for open wounds or natural body openings, such as the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and genitals, where they to lay their eggs. Once the larvae hatch, the maggots burrow deep into the living tissue of the host. They do so in a distinctive, corkscrew-like movement, which lends them the name screwworms. Equipped with sharp mouth hooks, the maggots feed on the flesh, aggressively tearing in which rapidly enlarges the wound. This structural damage causes intense pain, swelling, and hemorrhaging, and leads the host to release a foul smell. Other flies are attracted to this smell, which further worsens the infestation, increasing the risk of fatal secondary bacterial infections.&nbsp;Once they worms pass this cycle, they leave the animal and burrow into the soil where they "pupate" before maturing into a fly. This maggot infestations are known as myiasis. Regions where the fly species is endemic, economic losses can run into billions of dollars each year. Cows, sheep and horses are most at risk from screwworms. Domestic dogs and wild mammals, such as deer, rabbits, and birds can also fall prey to these worms. &nbsp;Livestock infected by the New World screwworms can be treated with antiparasitic medications.&nbsp;<h2>Can screwworms infect humans?</h2> The chances of humans being infected by the screwworms are extremely low. But the good news is that in humans, the infection can be treated. People in areas where screwworms are commonly found, especially those who work with livestock, are susceptible to the flies laying eggs in their wounds. Symptoms of the C. hominivorax infestation include seeing or feeling maggots move under the skin, ears, nose, eyes, or mouth, with wounds bleeding and emanating a foul smell.&nbsp;<h2>Why have screwworms returned to the US?</h2>&nbsp;For decades, aa strict biological barrier at the Darién Gap in Panama has ensured that the screwworm does not enter the US. Adult screwworm flies can only travel a few kilometres in their lifetime. Their movement through Central America and Mexico was driven by human assistance. The primary reason for it reaching different regions has been the domestic transport and shipping of infested livestock. Smugglers also engage in illegal cattle movement across geographically difficult borders, which lets infected animals to being in the flesh-eating maggots without being detected.

Screwworms have reutrned to the United States. It was detected in the umbilical cord area of a three-week-old calf in Texas. The insects were eradicated from the country in the 1960s after extensive efforts. But illegal methods have now brought them back.

The New World screwworm, which was eradicated from the United States over 60 years ago, has been found inside a cow in Texas. It is a parasitic, flesh-eating creature that feeds on the living flesh of warm-blooded animals, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) said. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) was announced the discovery, triggering alarm about the return of the screwworm, also known as Cochliomyia hominivorax. The screwworms are the larvae, or maggots, of adult C. hominivorax flies. How do screwworms infest animals? Adult flies search for open wounds or natural body openings, such as the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and genitals, where they to lay their eggs. Once the larvae hatch, the maggots burrow deep into the living tissue of the host. They do so in a distinctive, corkscrew-like movement, which lends them the name screwworms. Equipped with sharp mouth hooks, the maggots feed on the flesh, aggressively tearing in which rapidly enlarges the wound. This structural damage causes intense pain, swelling, and hemorrhaging, and leads the host to release a foul smell. Other flies are attracted to this smell, which further worsens the infestation, increasing the risk of fatal secondary bacterial infections. Once they worms pass this cycle, they leave the animal and burrow into the soil where they "pupate" before maturing into a fly. This maggot infestations are known as myiasis. Regions where the fly species is endemic, economic losses can run into billions of dollars each year. Cows, sheep and horses are most at risk from screwworms. Domestic dogs and wild mammals, such as deer, rabbits, and birds can also fall prey to these worms. Livestock infected by the New World screwworms can be treated with antiparasitic medications. Can screwworms infect humans? The chances of humans being infected by the screwworms are extremely low. But the good news is that in humans, the infection can be treated. People in areas where screwworms are commonly found, especially those who work with livestock, are susceptible to the flies laying eggs in their wounds. Symptoms of the C. hominivorax infestation include seeing or feeling maggots move under the skin, ears, nose, eyes, or mouth, with wounds bleeding and emanating a foul smell. Why have screwworms returned to the US? For decades, aa strict biological barrier at the Darién Gap in Panama has ensured that the screwworm does not enter the US. Adult screwworm flies can only travel a few kilometres in their lifetime. Their movement through Central America and Mexico was driven by human assistance. The primary reason for it reaching different regions has been the domestic transport and shipping of infested livestock. Smugglers also engage in illegal cattle movement across geographically difficult borders, which lets infected animals to being in the flesh-eating maggots without being detected.

Screwworms have returned to the United States. It was detected in the umbilical cord area of a three-week-old calf in Texas. The insects were eradicated from the country in the 1960s after extensive efforts. But illegal methods have now brought them back.

Screwworm found in Texas cow: Can they infect humans? How did they return to US after 60 years?

There is a man who won the Nobel Prize in Physics for building the brain of artificial intelligence. And that man will tell you, openly, that he has no idea how it actually thinks.&nbsp;Geoffrey Hinton, widely known as the Godfather of AI, appeared on the Diary of a CEO podcast hosted by Steven Bartlett in June 2025. The episode, titled Godfather of AI: I Tried to Warn Them, But We've Already Lost Control, became one of the most discussed AI conversations of the year. In it, Hinton laid out a truth that most AI companies would prefer to keep quiet: the internal reasoning of artificial intelligence is a black box, and the scientists who built it are looking at it from the outside just like everyone else.&nbsp;According to Hinton in that podcast, his contribution to AI was essentially the learning algorithm, specifically, the backpropagation algorithm, which he co-developed with David Rumelhart and Ronald Williams and published in a landmark 1986 paper. Backpropagation is the mechanism that allows neural networks to learn from errors, adjusting millions of internal connection weights until the system gets better at a task. It is, in Hinton's own framing, the algorithm that taught machines how to improve. But it did not give humans a window into what those machines actually do once they start improving.&nbsp;According to the Nobel Prize committee, which awarded Hinton and John Hopfield the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics, their discoveries enabled machine learning through artificial neural networks, a technology that now underpins everything from medical diagnosis to large language models like GPT-4. The Nobel citation itself acknowledges that these systems learn by adjusting connection strengths in ways that are not explicitly programmed, which is precisely why nobody can trace the internal logic of what the model has learned.&nbsp;This is the black box problem. Neural networks are modelled loosely on the human brain. According to research from Wikipedia and foundational AI literature, the human brain contains roughly 86 billion neurons connected through trillions of synapses. When a person learns something, the strength of specific synaptic connections changes, this is called synaptic plasticity. AI systems replicate this process mathematically. But the brain has a physical structure scientists can study. An AI model has weights, billions of numerical values, and no one has yet built a reliable method to translate those numbers into human-understandable reasoning.&nbsp;According to Hinton's statements across multiple interviews and the Diary of a CEO podcast, the concern is not just academic. These systems are now making decisions in healthcare, law, and finance. They are reasoning in ways that produce correct answers without leaving a trail of logic that humans can audit. Hinton has said plainly that we have no idea what it is going to look like and anyone who tells you they know is talking nonsense.&nbsp;The irony is historically significant. Hinton spent four decades building the learning algorithm that gave AI the ability to train itself on data. He helped design the architecture of thought for a new class of entity. And by doing so, he created something that now processes information in ways that exceed his ability to explain.&nbsp;This is not a failure of science. It is a feature of emergence. When you give a system the tools to teach itself from billions of data points, the patterns it builds are too complex and too numerous for any human to reverse-engineer. The model does not store facts. It stores relationships, compressed into layers of abstraction that produce outputs no human programmed explicitly.&nbsp;According to Hinton's warning on the podcast, this is precisely why AI safety is not a software problem with a known solution. You cannot patch what you cannot read. And right now, nobody on Earth can read the mind of the machine they built.

Nobel Prize winner Geoffrey Hinton confessed on the Diary of a CEO podcast that he only gave AI the learning algorithm — what happens inside the machine after that, nobody, not even its creator, truly understands.

There is a man who won the Nobel Prize in Physics for building the brain of artificial intelligence. And that man will tell you, openly, that he has no idea how it actually thinks. Geoffrey Hinton, widely known as the Godfather of AI, appeared on the Diary of a CEO podcast hosted by Steven Bartlett in June 2025. The episode, titled Godfather of AI: I Tried to Warn Them, But We've Already Lost Control, became one of the most discussed AI conversations of the year. In it, Hinton laid out a truth that most AI companies would prefer to keep quiet: the internal reasoning of artificial intelligence is a black box, and the scientists who built it are looking at it from the outside just like everyone else. According to Hinton in that podcast, his contribution to AI was essentially the learning algorithm, specifically, the backpropagation algorithm, which he co-developed with David Rumelhart and Ronald Williams and published in a landmark 1986 paper. Backpropagation is the mechanism that allows neural networks to learn from errors, adjusting millions of internal connection weights until the system gets better at a task. It is, in Hinton's own framing, the algorithm that taught machines how to improve. But it did not give humans a window into what those machines actually do once they start improving. According to the Nobel Prize committee, which awarded Hinton and John Hopfield the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics, their discoveries enabled machine learning through artificial neural networks, a technology that now underpins everything from medical diagnosis to large language models like GPT-4. The Nobel citation itself acknowledges that these systems learn by adjusting connection strengths in ways that are not explicitly programmed, which is precisely why nobody can trace the internal logic of what the model has learned. This is the black box problem. Neural networks are modelled loosely on the human brain. According to research from Wikipedia and foundational AI literature, the human brain contains roughly 86 billion neurons connected through trillions of synapses. When a person learns something, the strength of specific synaptic connections changes, this is called synaptic plasticity. AI systems replicate this process mathematically. But the brain has a physical structure scientists can study. An AI model has weights, billions of numerical values, and no one has yet built a reliable method to translate those numbers into human-understandable reasoning. According to Hinton's statements across multiple interviews and the Diary of a CEO podcast, the concern is not just academic. These systems are now making decisions in healthcare, law, and finance. They are reasoning in ways that produce correct answers without leaving a trail of logic that humans can audit. Hinton has said plainly that we have no idea what it is going to look like and anyone who tells you they know is talking nonsense. The irony is historically significant. Hinton spent four decades building the learning algorithm that gave AI the ability to train itself on data. He helped design the architecture of thought for a new class of entity. And by doing so, he created something that now processes information in ways that exceed his ability to explain. This is not a failure of science. It is a feature of emergence. When you give a system the tools to teach itself from billions of data points, the patterns it builds are too complex and too numerous for any human to reverse-engineer. The model does not store facts. It stores relationships, compressed into layers of abstraction that produce outputs no human programmed explicitly. According to Hinton's warning on the podcast, this is precisely why AI safety is not a software problem with a known solution. You cannot patch what you cannot read. And right now, nobody on Earth can read the mind of the machine they built.

Geoffrey Hinton, scientist credited with building the foundations of modern AI, made a startling confession on the Diary of a CEO podcast, he only provided the learning algorithm. What happens inside the mind of an AI after that, nobody, including its own creator, truly understands.

'I only gave learning algorithm': Godfather of AI admits nobody on Earth knows how AI actually thinks

Bill Pulte, the 38-year-old billionaire heir whom President Donald Trump has tapped to serve as acting director of national intelligence, is facing fresh scrutiny after reports resurfaced details of his unconventional rise from social media influencer and meme-stock enthusiast to one of the most powerful positions in the US government. Trump's decision to place Pulte in charge of America's intelligence apparatus has already drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, many of whom have questioned his lack of experience in intelligence or national security. Now, reports have put a rather colourful chapter of his past into the spotlight.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pam-bondi-throws-todd-blanche-under-the-bus-blames-trump-s-new-doj-chief-pick-for-epstein-files-fiasco-1780644454937">'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release</a><h2>Pulte's meme-worthy past</h2>According to a Daily Beast report, before entering government, Pulte was best known online for what he called "Twitter Philanthropy," a social media campaign through which he gave away money to followers and built a massive online audience. The grandson of homebuilding billionaire William J. Pulte amassed millions of followers by posting cash giveaways and engaging directly with users.His online influence eventually attracted communities of retail investors who believed Pulte was involved in efforts to revive struggling retailer Bed Bath &amp; Beyond after the company's collapse became a rallying point for meme-stock traders.Reports suggest that rather than distancing himself from speculation, Pulte often appeared to lean into it. He participated in investor podcasts, attended events centred around the stock and became a prominent figure among online traders convinced the company could somehow be resurrected despite its bankruptcy.One livestream reportedly featured Pulte wearing a jacket covered in astronaut patches, a common meme-stock symbol used to suggest a stock was heading "to the moon." At another event in Florida, attended by retail investors, a bizarre on-stage stunt involving a man getting slapped by a novelty sex toy drew widespread attention online.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-cocaine-was-it-hunter-biden-sarcastic-response-to-white-house-narcotics-accusation-goes-viral-i-d-never-forget-my-drugs-joe-biden-west-wing-1780562403574">Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral</a><h2>From meme stocks to intelligence chief</h2>The enthusiasm never translated into a Bed Bath &amp; Beyond revival, but Pulte's profile continued to grow. He later entered Trump's orbit and was appointed to lead the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), overseeing mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.Trump has now elevated him further, naming him acting director of national intelligence while allowing him to retain his existing government roles. The appointment places Pulte in charge of overseeing America's intelligence community, including access to some of the country's most sensitive national security information.Critics argue that the leap from social media celebrity and meme-stock promoter to intelligence chief is extraordinary, even by Washington standards. Supporters, however, contend that Pulte's business background and loyalty to Trump make him a suitable choice for the administration.

Before Donald Trump tapped him to oversee America's intelligence community, Bill Pulte was known for cash giveaways, meme-stock fandom and a viral event involving a novelty s*x toy. Here's what reports have revealed about his past.

Bill Pulte, the 38-year-old billionaire heir whom President Donald Trump has tapped to serve as acting director of national intelligence, is facing fresh scrutiny after reports resurfaced details of his unconventional rise from social media influencer and meme-stock enthusiast to one of the most powerful positions in the US government. Trump's decision to place Pulte in charge of America's intelligence apparatus has already drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, many of whom have questioned his lack of experience in intelligence or national security. Now, reports have put a rather colourful chapter of his past into the spotlight. Also read | 'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release Pulte's meme-worthy past According to a Daily Beast report, before entering government, Pulte was best known online for what he called "Twitter Philanthropy," a social media campaign through which he gave away money to followers and built a massive online audience. The grandson of homebuilding billionaire William J. Pulte amassed millions of followers by posting cash giveaways and engaging directly with users. His online influence eventually attracted communities of retail investors who believed Pulte was involved in efforts to revive struggling retailer Bed Bath & Beyond after the company's collapse became a rallying point for meme-stock traders. Reports suggest that rather than distancing himself from speculation, Pulte often appeared to lean into it. He participated in investor podcasts, attended events centred around the stock and became a prominent figure among online traders convinced the company could somehow be resurrected despite its bankruptcy. One livestream reportedly featured Pulte wearing a jacket covered in astronaut patches, a common meme-stock symbol used to suggest a stock was heading "to the moon." At another event in Florida, attended by retail investors, a bizarre on-stage stunt involving a man getting slapped by a novelty sex toy drew widespread attention online. Also read | Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral From meme stocks to intelligence chief The enthusiasm never translated into a Bed Bath & Beyond revival, but Pulte's profile continued to grow. He later entered Trump's orbit and was appointed to lead the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), overseeing mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Trump has now elevated him further, naming him acting director of national intelligence while allowing him to retain his existing government roles. The appointment places Pulte in charge of overseeing America's intelligence community, including access to some of the country's most sensitive national security information. Critics argue that the leap from social media celebrity and meme-stock promoter to intelligence chief is extraordinary, even by Washington standards. Supporters, however, contend that Pulte's business background and loyalty to Trump make him a suitable choice for the administration.

Before Donald Trump tapped him to oversee America's intelligence community, Bill Pulte was known for cash giveaways, meme-stock fandom and a viral event involving a novelty s*x toy. Here's what reports have revealed about his past.

From s*x toy slaps to America's spy chief? Trump's DNI pick Bill Pulte unusual past goes viral

Britain’s King Charles III on Thursday (Jun 4) praised the “determination and commitment” of soldiers in the newly formed King’s Gurkha Artillery unit during a special formation parade at Larkhill Barracks in Wiltshire. The event marked a significant milestone in the long-standing military relationship between the United Kingdom and Nepal, celebrating the creation of the first dedicated Gurkha Artillery Unit in the British Army.The King was welcomed with a traditional 21-gun salute and presented with a large garland, a customary symbol of respect in Nepali culture. During the ceremony, the monarch reviewed the troops, met military personnel and their families, and posed for an official photograph with the soldiers.Addressing the unit, the King expressed his pride in the Gurkha soldiers and thanked them for their commitment as they embark on a new chapter in their military service. He said the formation of the King’s Gurkha Artillery reflects the enduring and deeply valued bond between the UK and Nepal and expands opportunities for Gurkha soldiers to serve across a wider range of roles within the British Army.The parade, which celebrated the formation of the first Gurkha Artillery Unit, showed the “enduring and deeply valued relationship between the United Kingdom and Nepal,” the King said.“I am immensely proud to see you on parade today,” he added.“I can only offer you all my sincere thanks for your determination and commitment in stepping forward at the beginning of this important new chapter,” the King told the soldiers.The unit was formally established last year in April. Over the next three years, around 400 Gurkha personnel are expected to join the unit to serve “across the full spectrum of capability within the British Army”. The formation builds upon a long history of Gurkha involvement in artillery service. Gurkhas served in the Bombay Artillery before the First World War, while approximately 85 Gurkha soldiers worked as gunners during the Second World War.Members of the new unit will serve across several Royal Artillery regiments supporting the British Army’s 1st Division, 3rd Division and 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team. They will also receive training on some of the Army’s most advanced artillery systems, including the Archer self-propelled artillery system, the Light Gun and the remote-controlled Howitzer 155 system, strengthening the Army’s operational capabilities for the future.

King Charles III praised the dedication of soldiers in the new King’s Gurkha Artillery unit, calling it a symbol of the strong UK-Nepal bond and a new chapter in Gurkha service.

Britain’s King Charles III on Thursday (Jun 4) praised the “determination and commitment” of soldiers in the newly formed King’s Gurkha Artillery unit during a special formation parade at Larkhill Barracks in Wiltshire. The event marked a significant milestone in the long-standing military relationship between the United Kingdom and Nepal, celebrating the creation of the first dedicated Gurkha Artillery Unit in the British Army. The King was welcomed with a traditional 21-gun salute and presented with a large garland, a customary symbol of respect in Nepali culture. During the ceremony, the monarch reviewed the troops, met military personnel and their families, and posed for an official photograph with the soldiers. Addressing the unit, the King expressed his pride in the Gurkha soldiers and thanked them for their commitment as they embark on a new chapter in their military service. He said the formation of the King’s Gurkha Artillery reflects the enduring and deeply valued bond between the UK and Nepal and expands opportunities for Gurkha soldiers to serve across a wider range of roles within the British Army. The parade, which celebrated the formation of the first Gurkha Artillery Unit, showed the “enduring and deeply valued relationship between the United Kingdom and Nepal,” the King said. “I am immensely proud to see you on parade today,” he added. “I can only offer you all my sincere thanks for your determination and commitment in stepping forward at the beginning of this important new chapter,” the King told the soldiers. The unit was formally established last year in April. Over the next three years, around 400 Gurkha personnel are expected to join the unit to serve “across the full spectrum of capability within the British Army”. The formation builds upon a long history of Gurkha involvement in artillery service. Gurkhas served in the Bombay Artillery before the First World War, while approximately 85 Gurkha soldiers worked as gunners during the Second World War. Members of the new unit will serve across several Royal Artillery regiments supporting the British Army’s 1st Division, 3rd Division and 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team. They will also receive training on some of the Army’s most advanced artillery systems, including the Archer self-propelled artillery system, the Light Gun and the remote-controlled Howitzer 155 system, strengthening the Army’s operational capabilities for the future.

King Charles III praised the dedication of soldiers in the new King’s Gurkha Artillery unit, calling it a symbol of the strong UK-Nepal bond and a new chapter in Gurkha service.

‘Immensely proud’: King Charles III hails new Gurkha Artillery regiment

A commercial breeder in Australia has been caught keeping more than 100,000 live exotic cockroaches, some as big as a human palm. The bug bust is the country’s largest-ever seizure of exotic invertebrates, officials said Friday. Authorities found Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches, worth 200,000 Australian dollars. The cockroaches are illegal in Australia, meaning no one can buy, sell or keep them. The bust was made in Bathurst in the state of New South Wales, Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water said. Officials said that the cockroaches can spread disease and harm native wildlife and agriculture.&nbsp;The Madagascar hissing cockroach is 2 to 3 inches long, making it one of the world's largest cockroaches. They are used by reptile owners to feed their lizards and other creatures. The common Australian cockroach measures between 0.9 and 1.4 inches long. Officials have warned property owners to look for alternatives, such as crickets and wood roaches. "If you are found to possess, breed or trade exotic cockroaches such as dubia cockroaches and Madagascar hissing cockroaches, they will be seized, and you could face penalties under federal law," a spokesperson for the department said. Photos released by the department show shiny, brown invertebrates larger than a person’s finger.&nbsp;Cockroaches are commonly found in Australia because of its sub-tropical climate. According to Bathurst snake catcher Stefanie Lesser, who spoke to the Australian Broadcasting Corp, the larger exotic cockroaches are a cost-effective reptile food because of their size. So fewer insects are needed to feed the reptiles. Australia keeps a close check on everything that is crossing its borders to protect its agriculture and horticulture sectors and native wildlife. &nbsp;Anyone found smuggling undeclared or illegal animals, insect or plant material can be fined thousands of dollars. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) will manage the killing of all the seized cockroaches.&nbsp;Policy director for the Invasive Species Council, Carol Booth, told ABC that there are several websites "advertising ants, cockroaches and all sorts of interesting insects online." She added that their trade posed a "massive" risk as these creatures can introduce microorganisms and potential pathogens, leading to new diseases.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Australian authorities have seized cockroaches as big as the size of human palm from a breeder. The Madagascar hissing cockroaches make a sound so strong that it can be heard by those around. People feed them to their pet lizards, but they are illegal in Australia.

A commercial breeder in Australia has been caught keeping more than 100,000 live exotic cockroaches, some as big as a human palm. The bug bust is the country’s largest-ever seizure of exotic invertebrates, officials said Friday. Authorities found Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches, worth 200,000 Australian dollars. The cockroaches are illegal in Australia, meaning no one can buy, sell or keep them. The bust was made in Bathurst in the state of New South Wales, Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water said. Officials said that the cockroaches can spread disease and harm native wildlife and agriculture. The Madagascar hissing cockroach is 2 to 3 inches long, making it one of the world's largest cockroaches. They are used by reptile owners to feed their lizards and other creatures. The common Australian cockroach measures between 0.9 and 1.4 inches long. Officials have warned property owners to look for alternatives, such as crickets and wood roaches. "If you are found to possess, breed or trade exotic cockroaches such as dubia cockroaches and Madagascar hissing cockroaches, they will be seized, and you could face penalties under federal law," a spokesperson for the department said. Photos released by the department show shiny, brown invertebrates larger than a person’s finger. Cockroaches are commonly found in Australia because of its sub-tropical climate. According to Bathurst snake catcher Stefanie Lesser, who spoke to the Australian Broadcasting Corp, the larger exotic cockroaches are a cost-effective reptile food because of their size. So fewer insects are needed to feed the reptiles. Australia keeps a close check on everything that is crossing its borders to protect its agriculture and horticulture sectors and native wildlife. Anyone found smuggling undeclared or illegal animals, insect or plant material can be fined thousands of dollars. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) will manage the killing of all the seized cockroaches. Policy director for the Invasive Species Council, Carol Booth, told ABC that there are several websites "advertising ants, cockroaches and all sorts of interesting insects online." She added that their trade posed a "massive" risk as these creatures can introduce microorganisms and potential pathogens, leading to new diseases.

Australian authorities have seized cockroaches as big as the size of human palm from a breeder. The Madagascar hissing cockroaches make a sound so strong that it can be heard by those around. People feed them to their pet lizards, but they are illegal in Australia.

BUG BUST! 100,000 hissing cockroaches meant to feed lizards seized in Australia

A massive coastal development project in Albania, linked to Affinity Partners of Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, has sparked widespread protests. The high-profile couple who served as the senior advisors in the first Trump administration and remain prominent figures during US President Donald Trump's second term. The controversy sparked after the 44-year-old Ivanka revealed she and Kushner spent years pursuing the opportunity before acquiring the island, for a reported $1.4billion.&nbsp;Ivanka said that the island was a “lucky discovery”. "We were on a friend's boat, and we stopped for a swim – effectively, that's how we found it," Ivanka recalled of the lucky discovery. "We swam to the island. We went on a hike, barefoot all the way up to the top, and we were just captivated," Ivanka said. The project was “not business”, rather something personal.&nbsp;The project is heavily bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, which is a major investor at Affinity Partners. The project spanned two islands. First is Sazan Island, an uninhabited 1,400-hectare island in the Adriatic Sea, that once served as a top-secret, heavily fortified military base during the Cold War. Ivanka and Jared plan to build 10,000 luxury hotel rooms, private villas, and a yacht marina. Next is an ecologically sensitive coastal area on the island within the Vjosa-Narta wetland ecosystem.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kennedy-center-remove-trump-name-court-ruling-renaming-illegal-1780644071860">In a blow to Trump's ambition Kennedy Center ordered to remove Trump's name by June 12</a>The project led to widespread protests from the locals, which were some of the largest civil demonstrations in the history of Albania. Tens of thousands of protestors have flooded the capital city of Tirana and the southern coastal towns protesting the “private property” claim with slogans "Albania is not for sale".Environmental groups have warned that the project could lead to these long-protected habitats being “irreversibly destroyed”. According to the Associated Press, "excavators and other heavy machinery have entered the area, "opening access routes, digging into the sand, clearing land among pine trees, and installing fencing." Meanwhile, Edi Rama, the prime minister of Albania said, "Albania should not be a country that fears an extraordinary project like this one, where exceptional partners have come together to invest 4 billion euros ($4.6billion)."&nbsp;Albania's Special Structure Against Corruption and Organised Crime has opened a formal investigation into the project. Investigators are probing how the land's protected status was rapidly altered by the government and whether the project exploits political connections. This bore resemblance to the earlier high-profile Affinity Partners project in Serbia, which offers a cautionary tale. Serbia’s prosecutor for organised crime charged four people, including a government minister, with abuse of office and falsification of documents to help pave the way for the development.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's luxury resort project in Albania has triggered mass protests, environmental concerns and a corruption investigation into the development.

A massive coastal development project in Albania, linked to Affinity Partners of Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, has sparked widespread protests. The high-profile couple who served as the senior advisors in the first Trump administration and remain prominent figures during US President Donald Trump's second term. The controversy sparked after the 44-year-old Ivanka revealed she and Kushner spent years pursuing the opportunity before acquiring the island, for a reported $1.4billion. Ivanka said that the island was a “lucky discovery”. "We were on a friend's boat, and we stopped for a swim – effectively, that's how we found it," Ivanka recalled of the lucky discovery. "We swam to the island. We went on a hike, barefoot all the way up to the top, and we were just captivated," Ivanka said. The project was “not business”, rather something personal. The project is heavily bankrolled by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, which is a major investor at Affinity Partners. The project spanned two islands. First is Sazan Island, an uninhabited 1,400-hectare island in the Adriatic Sea, that once served as a top-secret, heavily fortified military base during the Cold War. Ivanka and Jared plan to build 10,000 luxury hotel rooms, private villas, and a yacht marina. Next is an ecologically sensitive coastal area on the island within the Vjosa-Narta wetland ecosystem. Also Read: In a blow to Trump's ambition Kennedy Center ordered to remove Trump's name by June 12 The project led to widespread protests from the locals, which were some of the largest civil demonstrations in the history of Albania. Tens of thousands of protestors have flooded the capital city of Tirana and the southern coastal towns protesting the “private property” claim with slogans "Albania is not for sale". Environmental groups have warned that the project could lead to these long-protected habitats being “irreversibly destroyed”. According to the Associated Press, "excavators and other heavy machinery have entered the area, "opening access routes, digging into the sand, clearing land among pine trees, and installing fencing." Meanwhile, Edi Rama, the prime minister of Albania said, "Albania should not be a country that fears an extraordinary project like this one, where exceptional partners have come together to invest 4 billion euros ($4.6billion)." Albania's Special Structure Against Corruption and Organised Crime has opened a formal investigation into the project. Investigators are probing how the land's protected status was rapidly altered by the government and whether the project exploits political connections. This bore resemblance to the earlier high-profile Affinity Partners project in Serbia, which offers a cautionary tale. Serbia’s prosecutor for organised crime charged four people, including a government minister, with abuse of office and falsification of documents to help pave the way for the development.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's luxury resort project in Albania has triggered mass protests, environmental concerns and a corruption investigation into the development.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's $1.4 billion Albania project sparks mass protests and corruption probe

The Kennedy Centre on Thursday ordered to remove all references to the US President Donald Trump by June 12, 2026, following a federal court ruling that found the renaming of the monument illegal. The memo issued by the Kennedy Centre states that all staff must immediately change email signatures, letterhead and other documents “to reflect the name as ‘The John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts,’ or ‘Kennedy Centre.’”This includes email signatures, letterhead, voicemails, press releases, digital websites and official documents. The deadline for the renaming is June 12, according to The New York Times.The sweeping directive comes less than a week after US District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled on May 29 that the organic statute establishing the landmark dictates it is meant to honour "President Kennedy alone". It said that since Congress originally named the building in 1964, only Congress holds the authority to rename it. “We are complying with the court’s order while evaluating all legal options to preserve this revitalisation and recognise President Trump’s leadership,” &nbsp;said Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations of the Kennedy Centre.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/new-york-manhole-mystery-viral-videos-nypd-investigation-1780579054894">New York Police probes bizarre sightings of people emerging from manholes at night</a>The White House announced in December that the Kennedy Centre's board voted "unanimously" to rename the cultural centre of the Trump-Kennedy Centre, something Trump had long desired for his legacy. The board, which Trump stacked with sycophants such as fired former Attorney General Pam Bondi, &nbsp;had voted in December 2025 to formally alter the venue's title to "The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Centre for the Performing Arts."This triggered a swift lawsuit from Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty of Ohio, a member of the centre's board. After the judgment, Trump was frustrated with the outcome and posted on social media that he would abandon his pursuit of a Kennedy Centre redesign and transfer the oversight of the centre back to Congress if he did not maintain control over decision-making. However, the Department of Justice added that it will continue to help President Trump's ability to restore the centre to its original glory.&nbsp;

The Kennedy Centre has been ordered to remove all references to Donald Trump by June 12 after a federal court ruled the renaming of the landmark was unlawful.

The Kennedy Centre on Thursday ordered to remove all references to the US President Donald Trump by June 12, 2026, following a federal court ruling that found the renaming of the monument illegal. The memo issued by the Kennedy Centre states that all staff must immediately change email signatures, letterhead and other documents “to reflect the name as ‘The John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts,’ or ‘Kennedy Centre.’” This includes email signatures, letterhead, voicemails, press releases, digital websites and official documents. The deadline for the renaming is June 12, according to The New York Times. The sweeping directive comes less than a week after US District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled on May 29 that the organic statute establishing the landmark dictates it is meant to honour "President Kennedy alone". It said that since Congress originally named the building in 1964, only Congress holds the authority to rename it. “We are complying with the court’s order while evaluating all legal options to preserve this revitalisation and recognise President Trump’s leadership,” said Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations of the Kennedy Centre. Also Read: New York Police probes bizarre sightings of people emerging from manholes at night The White House announced in December that the Kennedy Centre's board voted "unanimously" to rename the cultural centre of the Trump-Kennedy Centre, something Trump had long desired for his legacy. The board, which Trump stacked with sycophants such as fired former Attorney General Pam Bondi, had voted in December 2025 to formally alter the venue's title to "The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Centre for the Performing Arts." This triggered a swift lawsuit from Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty of Ohio, a member of the centre's board. After the judgment, Trump was frustrated with the outcome and posted on social media that he would abandon his pursuit of a Kennedy Centre redesign and transfer the oversight of the centre back to Congress if he did not maintain control over decision-making. However, the Department of Justice added that it will continue to help President Trump's ability to restore the centre to its original glory.

The Kennedy Centre has been ordered to remove all references to Donald Trump by June 12 after a federal court ruled the renaming of the landmark was unlawful.

In a blow to Trump's ambition Kennedy Center ordered to remove Trump's name by June 12

Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Justice Department, was the official responsible for overseeing the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, according to newly released congressional testimony. The remarks were made during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee last month, transcripts of which were made public on Thursday (Jun 4).<h2>What did Bondi say?</h2>During the questioning, Bondi repeatedly sought to distance herself from the Justice Department's handling of the highly sensitive Epstein records, a matter that has generated controversy throughout Trump's second term.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-strikes-again-attacks-another-journalist-with-bizarre-comment-hatred-in-her-eyes-1780554898613">Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes'</a>"He was in charge of the process and the entire release of the Epstein files," Bondi told lawmakers when asked about the department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. According to her testimony, the Justice Department has already released roughly three million documents, while another three million records remain under review or unreleased.Her comments place Blanche at the centre of one of the Trump administration's most politically charged controversies just as he prepares for what is expected to be a difficult Senate confirmation process. Democrats have already pointed to Bondi's testimony as evidence that Blanche should personally explain his role in the handling of the Epstein records.<h2>Is DoJ withholding Epstein files?</h2>Bondi insisted the department was not withholding material, arguing that the remaining files largely consist of duplicates or documents protected by legal privilege.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-cocaine-was-it-hunter-biden-sarcastic-response-to-white-house-narcotics-accusation-goes-viral-i-d-never-forget-my-drugs-joe-biden-west-wing-1780562403574">Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs'</a>Bondi also addressed criticism over her widely discussed 2025 television interview, in which she claimed the alleged Epstein "client list" was sitting on her desk. The statement fuelled speculation that explosive new disclosures were imminent. However, she later clarified that she had been referring to the broader Epstein case file and not to any specific client list. During her testimony, Bondi again insisted her comments had been misunderstood.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, placing Trump's DOJ nominee at the centre of a growing controversy. Here's all you need to know.

Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Todd Blanche, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Justice Department, was the official responsible for overseeing the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, according to newly released congressional testimony. The remarks were made during a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee last month, transcripts of which were made public on Thursday (Jun 4). What did Bondi say? During the questioning, Bondi repeatedly sought to distance herself from the Justice Department's handling of the highly sensitive Epstein records, a matter that has generated controversy throughout Trump's second term. Also read | Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes' "He was in charge of the process and the entire release of the Epstein files," Bondi told lawmakers when asked about the department's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. According to her testimony, the Justice Department has already released roughly three million documents, while another three million records remain under review or unreleased. Her comments place Blanche at the centre of one of the Trump administration's most politically charged controversies just as he prepares for what is expected to be a difficult Senate confirmation process. Democrats have already pointed to Bondi's testimony as evidence that Blanche should personally explain his role in the handling of the Epstein records. Is DoJ withholding Epstein files? Bondi insisted the department was not withholding material, arguing that the remaining files largely consist of duplicates or documents protected by legal privilege. Also read | Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs' Bondi also addressed criticism over her widely discussed 2025 television interview, in which she claimed the alleged Epstein "client list" was sitting on her desk. The statement fuelled speculation that explosive new disclosures were imminent. However, she later clarified that she had been referring to the broader Epstein case file and not to any specific client list. During her testimony, Bondi again insisted her comments had been misunderstood.

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told lawmakers that Todd Blanche oversaw the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files, placing Trump's DOJ nominee at the centre of a growing controversy. Here's all you need to know.

'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday (Jun 4) accused billionaire Elon Musk of "trying to whip up division" in the United Kingdom after the Tesla and X owner repeatedly criticised police handling of the murder of an 18-year-old student, a case that has become a flashpoint in Britain's increasingly heated debate over race, policing and immigration.The row centres on the killing of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old student who was stabbed to death in Southampton in December. The case drew national attention after police bodycam footage showed officers handcuffing Nowak while he lay critically injured, after initially believing that the attacker, Vickrum Digwa, was the victim. Digwa, 23, had falsely claimed that Nowak had racially abused him, according to court proceedings. He was sentenced earlier this week to a minimum of 21 years in prison for the murder.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-d-be-honoured-to-meet-mojtaba-khamenei-warns-war-could-restart-if-iran-kills-american-troops-cross-red-line-1780623877944">Trump says he'd be 'honoured' to meet Mojtaba Khamenei, warns war could restart if Iran kills American troops</a>The case has since been seized upon by several right-wing commentators and political figures, who argue that it demonstrates alleged bias in British policing against white citizens. Police leaders and Starmer's Labour government have strongly rejected those claims.<h2>What did Musk do to 'whip up division'?</h2>Speaking after meeting Nowak's family at Downing Street, Starmer urged the country to reject attempts to inflame tensions. "When we have a terrible case like Henry's case, we react calmly, as his family have done," Starmer told reporters, adding that Britain must choose "unity and progress over division and hatred."His remarks appeared directed at Musk, who has posted multiple messages about the case on X. In one post, Musk questioned whether British police were operating under a policy that discriminates against white people. He has also offered to help fund legal action over the handling of the case and criticised Hampshire Police.The X owner has also offered to fund a private prosecution against the police over its handling of the murder and insulted the Hampshire Police force involved.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-cocaine-was-it-hunter-biden-sarcastic-response-to-white-house-narcotics-accusation-goes-viral-i-d-never-forget-my-drugs-joe-biden-west-wing-1780562403574">Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs'</a>"We need to also assert who we are as a country, because Musk, again, has been interfering in our politics in the last few days, trying to whip up division," Starmer said.<h2>US condemns 'two-tiered policing'</h2>The controversy has spilt beyond Britain. The US State Department weighed in this week, expressing condolences to Nowak's family while criticising what it described as "ideological conditioning and two-tiered policing" in Western societies.The case has also triggered political fallout inside the UK. Starmer criticised Reform UK leader Nigel Farage for calling for "pure cold rage" in response to the killing, saying such rhetoric was "unforgivable." Farage denied encouraging violence and said he had always acted within democratic norms.Meanwhile, Britain's police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), is investigating officers' actions during the incident. Authorities have also confirmed that an inquest examining whether police conduct contributed to Nowak's death will begin before a jury in September 2027.Starmer vs Musk: A historyThe dispute marks the latest clash between Starmer and Musk. The pair have repeatedly sparred over British politics, with the prime minister previously accusing the tech billionaire of spreading "lies and misinformation" during debates over the UK's grooming gangs scandal. &nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has accused Elon Musk of fuelling division after the billionaire criticised police handling of the Henry Nowak murder case, reigniting debate over race, policing and immigration.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday (Jun 4) accused billionaire Elon Musk of "trying to whip up division" in the United Kingdom after the Tesla and X owner repeatedly criticised police handling of the murder of an 18-year-old student, a case that has become a flashpoint in Britain's increasingly heated debate over race, policing and immigration. The row centres on the killing of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old student who was stabbed to death in Southampton in December. The case drew national attention after police bodycam footage showed officers handcuffing Nowak while he lay critically injured, after initially believing that the attacker, Vickrum Digwa, was the victim. Digwa, 23, had falsely claimed that Nowak had racially abused him, according to court proceedings. He was sentenced earlier this week to a minimum of 21 years in prison for the murder. Also read | Trump says he'd be 'honoured' to meet Mojtaba Khamenei, warns war could restart if Iran kills American troops The case has since been seized upon by several right-wing commentators and political figures, who argue that it demonstrates alleged bias in British policing against white citizens. Police leaders and Starmer's Labour government have strongly rejected those claims. What did Musk do to 'whip up division'? Speaking after meeting Nowak's family at Downing Street, Starmer urged the country to reject attempts to inflame tensions. "When we have a terrible case like Henry's case, we react calmly, as his family have done," Starmer told reporters, adding that Britain must choose "unity and progress over division and hatred." His remarks appeared directed at Musk, who has posted multiple messages about the case on X. In one post, Musk questioned whether British police were operating under a policy that discriminates against white people. He has also offered to help fund legal action over the handling of the case and criticised Hampshire Police. The X owner has also offered to fund a private prosecution against the police over its handling of the murder and insulted the Hampshire Police force involved. Also read | Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs' "We need to also assert who we are as a country, because Musk, again, has been interfering in our politics in the last few days, trying to whip up division," Starmer said. US condemns 'two-tiered policing' The controversy has spilt beyond Britain. The US State Department weighed in this week, expressing condolences to Nowak's family while criticising what it described as "ideological conditioning and two-tiered policing" in Western societies. The case has also triggered political fallout inside the UK. Starmer criticised Reform UK leader Nigel Farage for calling for "pure cold rage" in response to the killing, saying such rhetoric was "unforgivable." Farage denied encouraging violence and said he had always acted within democratic norms. Meanwhile, Britain's police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), is investigating officers' actions during the incident. Authorities have also confirmed that an inquest examining whether police conduct contributed to Nowak's death will begin before a jury in September 2027. Starmer vs Musk: A history The dispute marks the latest clash between Starmer and Musk. The pair have repeatedly sparred over British politics, with the prime minister previously accusing the tech billionaire of spreading "lies and misinformation" during debates over the UK's grooming gangs scandal.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has accused Elon Musk of fuelling division after the billionaire criticised police handling of the Henry Nowak murder case, reigniting debate over race, policing and immigration.

Keir Starmer accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to whip up division' in UK. What did he do?

On Thursday, a US citizen who previously worked for Chinese state media pleaded guilty to acting as an unregistered foreign agent for Beijing. According to court documents, 50-year-old Thomas Weir Pauken II, also known as Tom McGregor, operated under the "direction and control" of Chinese officials linked to the Ministry of State Security from at least 2019 until February 2026.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/from-london-to-washington-security-chiefs-sound-alarm-over-china-s-spy-recruitment-1780593138190/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/from-london-to-washington-security-chiefs-sound-alarm-over-china-s-spy-recruitment-1780593138190/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Pauken was directed by an individual using the English name “Cathy” to gather intelligence in the US on "American targets" and politicians. In return for his espionage efforts, Pauken allegedly collected approximately US$ 100,000. Cathy provided him with communication tools, including a laptop and a cellphone, identified specific targets for him to pursue, and instructed him to meet potential sources, deliver communication devices, and transmit reports back to China. Additionally, Cathy covered his travel expenses, funnelling around US 7,500 per trip through the bank account of Pauken’s wife.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-9-billion-ai-funding-spy-agencies-nvidia-chip-shortage-1779513472481">US spy agencies race for Nvidia AI chips under new $9 billion plan</a>&nbsp;Roman Rozhavsky, the assistant director of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, stated that the case demonstrates the lengths the Communist Party will go to undermine American democratic institutions and degrade political freedoms, adding, “Let this plea serve as a clear warning.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-linkedin-job-ads-chinese-spies-pose-as-online-recruiters-to-hunt-for-state-secrets-1780555462927">Fake LinkedIn job ads: Chinese spies pose as online recruiters to hunt for state secrets</a>&nbsp;The documents filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia detail Pauken's extensive background with Chinese state media. He relocated to Hong Kong around 2010, initially working for China Radio International. He later worked for China Central Television and China Global Television Network, eventually becoming an editor for Xinhua in 2024.&nbsp;Following his guilty plea, Pauken faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison. His sentencing is officially scheduled to take place on September 1.

A 50-year-old US citizen and former Chinese state media worker, Thomas Weir Pauken has pleaded guilty to acting as an unregistered foreign agent for Beijing's Ministry of State Security.

On Thursday, a US citizen who previously worked for Chinese state media pleaded guilty to acting as an unregistered foreign agent for Beijing. According to court documents, 50-year-old Thomas Weir Pauken II, also known as Tom McGregor, operated under the "direction and control" of Chinese officials linked to the Ministry of State Security from at least 2019 until February 2026. https://www.wionews.com/videos/from-london-to-washington-security-chiefs-sound-alarm-over-china-s-spy-recruitment-1780593138190/embed Pauken was directed by an individual using the English name “Cathy” to gather intelligence in the US on "American targets" and politicians. In return for his espionage efforts, Pauken allegedly collected approximately US$ 100,000. Cathy provided him with communication tools, including a laptop and a cellphone, identified specific targets for him to pursue, and instructed him to meet potential sources, deliver communication devices, and transmit reports back to China. Additionally, Cathy covered his travel expenses, funnelling around US 7,500 per trip through the bank account of Pauken’s wife. Also read: US spy agencies race for Nvidia AI chips under new $9 billion plan Roman Rozhavsky, the assistant director of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, stated that the case demonstrates the lengths the Communist Party will go to undermine American democratic institutions and degrade political freedoms, adding, “Let this plea serve as a clear warning.” Also read: Fake LinkedIn job ads: Chinese spies pose as online recruiters to hunt for state secrets The documents filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia detail Pauken's extensive background with Chinese state media. He relocated to Hong Kong around 2010, initially working for China Radio International. He later worked for China Central Television and China Global Television Network, eventually becoming an editor for Xinhua in 2024. Following his guilty plea, Pauken faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison. His sentencing is officially scheduled to take place on September 1.

A 50-year-old US citizen and former Chinese state media worker, Thomas Weir Pauken has pleaded guilty to acting as an unregistered foreign agent for Beijing's Ministry of State Security.

Paid $100K to spy on US politicians: How a former American Chinese state media worker got caught by FBI

Clean energy is being touted as the next best thing to reverse climate change. Solar power is one of the main sources of energy production today, and governments worldwide are working to expand it. However, even this source comes at an environmental cost. Solar panels require large plots of land, almost what agricultural land would also need - which is flat, gets enough sunlight and is close to infrastructure. This has created a tussle between the two, creating a paradox of sorts where one is being sacrificed for the other. If solar panels are given preference, we risk giving up food security and hitting rural economies. If the right land is not given to solar energy, then a major source of renewable energy fails to work.&nbsp;A solution to this problem has now emerged in the form of agrivoltaics - dual-use solar or agrisolar. In this system, solar panels and agriculture form a symbiotic relationship that is beneficial for both of them. The highlights are the four-legged creatures that graze underneath the elevated solar panels. The humble sheep is the star of the show that makes agrivoltaics work as they nibble on the grass below.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/world-environment-day-data-centres-are-coming-to-india-but-at-what-cost-1780567891256">World Environment Day in the age of AI - Are humans sacrificing the climate for data centres?</a><h2>Solar panels and weed</h2> Solar farms suffer from a major logistical headache - weeds. If they grow too high, they cast shadows on the panels, which can drastically reduce electrical output. Removing extra grass and vegetation from the ground below is crucial to ensuring that the solar panels work to their full potential. Companies have the option to use traditional lawnmowers and heavy machinery to remove the weeds. However, that will kick up rocks, which can damage the multi-million-dollar glass arrays. Using chemical weedkillers creates another problem, as they can contaminate the local water table.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-could-chug-water-enough-to-sustain-all-8-1-billion-people-on-earth-for-over-a-year-un-report-warns-1780583211386">World Environment Day: AI could chug water enough to sustain all 8.1 billion people on Earth for over a year, UN report warns</a>&nbsp;So solar power companies are partnering with shepherds. Yes, their sheep are the solution to their problem. They can be small, which means they can easily walk through the vegetation and standard racking systems. They are not afraid of the high-voltage infrastructure above them. The sheep eat the grass and weeds and keep them at the optimal length, avoiding adverse effects on the panels. It is a win-win situation for the shepherds who can have their sheep fill their tummies while earning passive income.&nbsp;The dual-use solar also has a third beneficiary - crop cultivation. Global heatwaves can become a bane for agriculture. Agricultural scientists say that crops need sunlight, but too much of it can harm them. Partial shade is actually the need of the hour, which these solar panels provide. They cut off excess heat and help plants survive in the age of global warming. Regional trials have shown that plants like tomatoes, peppers, leafy greens, and berries don’t just survive under solar arrays, but actually produce higher&nbsp;yields than those grown in direct sunlight.&nbsp;<h2>Benefits of agrivoltaics</h2> Water conservation The solar panels offer physical shade to the ground below, reducing soil water evaporation by up to 30-40 per cent. This can drastically cut down irrigation needs in drought-prone regions.Increased Solar Efficiency Solar panels need sunlight to work, but they can get damaged if they get too hot. Plans have moisture naturally, which can cool down the panels, boosting electricity generation.Crop protection Vegetation is also at risk of damage from extreme rain, frost, hail, and other weather events. With solar panels above them offering protection, this threat is drastically reduced. &nbsp;

World Environment Day: Solar panels are affected by vegetation and weeds growing underneath, affecting efficiency when covered by them. A unique solution is offered in the form of sheep. The animals can keep the grass short, and in turn, the shepherds make money by offering their livestock.

Clean energy is being touted as the next best thing to reverse climate change. Solar power is one of the main sources of energy production today, and governments worldwide are working to expand it. However, even this source comes at an environmental cost. Solar panels require large plots of land, almost what agricultural land would also need - which is flat, gets enough sunlight and is close to infrastructure. This has created a tussle between the two, creating a paradox of sorts where one is being sacrificed for the other. If solar panels are given preference, we risk giving up food security and hitting rural economies. If the right land is not given to solar energy, then a major source of renewable energy fails to work. A solution to this problem has now emerged in the form of agrivoltaics - dual-use solar or agrisolar. In this system, solar panels and agriculture form a symbiotic relationship that is beneficial for both of them. The highlights are the four-legged creatures that graze underneath the elevated solar panels. The humble sheep is the star of the show that makes agrivoltaics work as they nibble on the grass below. Also Read: World Environment Day in the age of AI - Are humans sacrificing the climate for data centres? Solar panels and weed Solar farms suffer from a major logistical headache - weeds. If they grow too high, they cast shadows on the panels, which can drastically reduce electrical output. Removing extra grass and vegetation from the ground below is crucial to ensuring that the solar panels work to their full potential. Companies have the option to use traditional lawnmowers and heavy machinery to remove the weeds. However, that will kick up rocks, which can damage the multi-million-dollar glass arrays. Using chemical weedkillers creates another problem, as they can contaminate the local water table. Also Read: World Environment Day: AI could chug water enough to sustain all 8.1 billion people on Earth for over a year, UN report warns So solar power companies are partnering with shepherds. Yes, their sheep are the solution to their problem. They can be small, which means they can easily walk through the vegetation and standard racking systems. They are not afraid of the high-voltage infrastructure above them. The sheep eat the grass and weeds and keep them at the optimal length, avoiding adverse effects on the panels. It is a win-win situation for the shepherds who can have their sheep fill their tummies while earning passive income. The dual-use solar also has a third beneficiary - crop cultivation. Global heatwaves can become a bane for agriculture. Agricultural scientists say that crops need sunlight, but too much of it can harm them. Partial shade is actually the need of the hour, which these solar panels provide. They cut off excess heat and help plants survive in the age of global warming. Regional trials have shown that plants like tomatoes, peppers, leafy greens, and berries don’t just survive under solar arrays, but actually produce higher yields than those grown in direct sunlight. Benefits of agrivoltaics Water conservation The solar panels offer physical shade to the ground below, reducing soil water evaporation by up to 30-40 per cent. This can drastically cut down irrigation needs in drought-prone regions. Increased Solar Efficiency Solar panels need sunlight to work, but they can get damaged if they get too hot. Plans have moisture naturally, which can cool down the panels, boosting electricity generation. Crop protection Vegetation is also at risk of damage from extreme rain, frost, hail, and other weather events. With solar panels above them offering protection, this threat is drastically reduced.

World Environment Day: Solar panels are affected by vegetation and weeds growing underneath, affecting efficiency when covered by them. A unique solution is offered in the form of sheep. The animals can keep the grass short, and in turn, the shepherds make money by offering their livestock.

World Environment Day: Sheep are 'making hay while the sun shines', fixing a major solar panel problem

On the occasion of World Environment Day, there is no topic more important that AI that we need to talk about this year. Humans want to save Earth from climate change and global warming. Yet, we are pushing AI like there is no tomorrow. Data centres are at the centre of a major battle across the world because of the carbon emissions and the amount of water they use. A new study has also found that AI could consume nearly 3 per cent of the world's electricity by 2030, and use as much water as can quench the thirst of every human on Earth for more than a year and a half. The carbon emissions will be equivalent to what the United Kingdom emitted in 2025. The electronic waste will be similar to throwing 250 Eiffel Towers annually.&nbsp;&nbsp;Water is becoming a problem as complaints about dirty and muddy water in homes near data centres have soared. Data centres have large fans and chillers that work constantly to keep the systems cool, and in the process use tonnes of fresh water. Data Centres are now coming to India, a country with the highest population in the world, where most of them are struggling to gain access to basic needs like water.&nbsp;Is the environmental impact of AI data centres being ignored in favour of advancing technology? Can humans afford to push a product that could make resources scarce for them as it grows? Here is how AI data centres are impacting the environment.<h2>Energy strain of data centres</h2> Data suggests that data centres globally consume 448 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity. This makes them the world's 11th largest electricity consumer, using more power than the entire nation of Saudi Arabia. The emissions based on this number are 208 million tons of CO2, almost the same as the annual emissions of Argentina. However, with more of them planned, the situation is expected to get worse. By 2030, their power consumption is projected to nearly double to 945 TWh, nearly 3% to 4% of all global electricity.&nbsp;Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Rayat Bahra University, says, "Data centres place tremendous pressure on energy grids through continuous high-power consumption, intense carbon emissions where electricity is sourced from fossil fuel generators, consume vast quantities of freshwater for cooling, and generate significant electronic waste due to rapid hardware obsolescence."&nbsp;To meet energy demands, tech companies have started building their own on-site fossil fuel plants. For example, xAI’s "Colossus" data center in Memphis installed over 30 natural gas turbines for daily use. This has caused a sudden surge in air pollution, leading to scrutiny and lawsuits.<h2> AI data centres and the water footprint</h2> This is one of the biggest problems posed by data centres. They require massive amounts of physical water to prevent processors from melting. Asking an LLM 30 to 50 questions leads to half a litre of fresh water vanishing. By 2030, AI's water footprint could reach the same as that of the annual domestic water needs of 1.3 billion people. The amount of water they use has triggered widespread protests. An average data centre can consume up to 5 million gallons of water a day. In the US, these data centres have largely been built in areas where water is already scarce, such as Arizona, Texas, and the Colorado River Basin.&nbsp;<h2>Data centres and the water crisis in India</h2> In India, a data centre project is being planned in the Tarluvada village in Visakhapatnam district, a water-stressed region. "The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and the data centres that support it demands careful scrutiny, particularly in a country like India, where water scarcity is already a growing crisis," Jabir Karat, Founder &amp; CEO of Green Worms Waste Management Pvt. Ltd, told WION.&nbsp;"The gap between water demand and supply continues to widen, while groundwater levels in many regions are declining at an alarming rate due to overextraction. Several cities have come close to experiencing a “Day Zero” scenario, and at least one has already faced severe water shortages. In this context, it is essential to evaluate the extent to which India can afford the environmental costs associated with the large-scale expansion of data centre infrastructure," he added.&nbsp;<h2>Reaching equilibrium - Solution to environmental impact of data centres</h2> Experts say stringent environmental compliance and carbon accounting standards are needed to mitigate the situation. "Governments and industry must mandate renewable-energy-powered data centres, adopt advanced liquid and immersion cooling technologies to minimise water consumption, and implement circular-economy practices for recycling and refurbishing electronic components," Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar says.&nbsp;"Responsible development requires that environmental considerations remain central to decision-making. We must ensure that resource conservation and the well-being of future generations are not compromised in the pursuit of technological advancement without appropriate regulations and safeguards," Karat said. &nbsp;

World Environment Day: For decades, humans have been holding meetings and conferences to talk about reducing carbon emissions and reducing global warming. But with AI data centres, it seems we have forgotten that this is the world where we need to live, are practically killing it ourselves.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, there is no topic more important that AI that we need to talk about this year. Humans want to save Earth from climate change and global warming. Yet, we are pushing AI like there is no tomorrow. Data centres are at the centre of a major battle across the world because of the carbon emissions and the amount of water they use. A new study has also found that AI could consume nearly 3 per cent of the world's electricity by 2030, and use as much water as can quench the thirst of every human on Earth for more than a year and a half. The carbon emissions will be equivalent to what the United Kingdom emitted in 2025. The electronic waste will be similar to throwing 250 Eiffel Towers annually. Water is becoming a problem as complaints about dirty and muddy water in homes near data centres have soared. Data centres have large fans and chillers that work constantly to keep the systems cool, and in the process use tonnes of fresh water. Data Centres are now coming to India, a country with the highest population in the world, where most of them are struggling to gain access to basic needs like water. Is the environmental impact of AI data centres being ignored in favour of advancing technology? Can humans afford to push a product that could make resources scarce for them as it grows? Here is how AI data centres are impacting the environment. Energy strain of data centres Data suggests that data centres globally consume 448 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity. This makes them the world's 11th largest electricity consumer, using more power than the entire nation of Saudi Arabia. The emissions based on this number are 208 million tons of CO2, almost the same as the annual emissions of Argentina. However, with more of them planned, the situation is expected to get worse. By 2030, their power consumption is projected to nearly double to 945 TWh, nearly 3% to 4% of all global electricity. Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Rayat Bahra University, says, "Data centres place tremendous pressure on energy grids through continuous high-power consumption, intense carbon emissions where electricity is sourced from fossil fuel generators, consume vast quantities of freshwater for cooling, and generate significant electronic waste due to rapid hardware obsolescence." To meet energy demands, tech companies have started building their own on-site fossil fuel plants. For example, xAI’s "Colossus" data center in Memphis installed over 30 natural gas turbines for daily use. This has caused a sudden surge in air pollution, leading to scrutiny and lawsuits. AI data centres and the water footprint This is one of the biggest problems posed by data centres. They require massive amounts of physical water to prevent processors from melting. Asking an LLM 30 to 50 questions leads to half a litre of fresh water vanishing. By 2030, AI's water footprint could reach the same as that of the annual domestic water needs of 1.3 billion people. The amount of water they use has triggered widespread protests. An average data centre can consume up to 5 million gallons of water a day. In the US, these data centres have largely been built in areas where water is already scarce, such as Arizona, Texas, and the Colorado River Basin. Data centres and the water crisis in India In India, a data centre project is being planned in the Tarluvada village in Visakhapatnam district, a water-stressed region. "The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and the data centres that support it demands careful scrutiny, particularly in a country like India, where water scarcity is already a growing crisis," Jabir Karat, Founder & CEO of Green Worms Waste Management Pvt. Ltd, told WION. "The gap between water demand and supply continues to widen, while groundwater levels in many regions are declining at an alarming rate due to overextraction. Several cities have come close to experiencing a “Day Zero” scenario, and at least one has already faced severe water shortages. In this context, it is essential to evaluate the extent to which India can afford the environmental costs associated with the large-scale expansion of data centre infrastructure," he added. Reaching equilibrium - Solution to environmental impact of data centres Experts say stringent environmental compliance and carbon accounting standards are needed to mitigate the situation. "Governments and industry must mandate renewable-energy-powered data centres, adopt advanced liquid and immersion cooling technologies to minimise water consumption, and implement circular-economy practices for recycling and refurbishing electronic components," Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar says. "Responsible development requires that environmental considerations remain central to decision-making. We must ensure that resource conservation and the well-being of future generations are not compromised in the pursuit of technological advancement without appropriate regulations and safeguards," Karat said.

World Environment Day: For decades, humans have been holding meetings and conferences to talk about reducing carbon emissions and reducing global warming. But with AI data centres, it seems we have forgotten that this is the world where we need to live, are practically killing it ourselves.

World Environment Day in the age of AI - Are humans sacrificing the climate for data centres?

US President Donald Trump has announced $700 million in support for coal-related projects, marking a renewed push to expand reliance on one of the most polluting fossil fuels. The move has triggered renewed debate over why the US is turning further towards coal despite global climate concerns.<h2>Trump doubles down on coal push</h2>The funding will be deployed to keep more than a dozen coal plants running across ten US states and support 42 coal mines. The plan also includes building two new coal plants and developing a coal export terminal.&nbsp;The initiative will be executed using the Defence Production Act, a Cold War-era law passed in 1950 that allows the US president emergency authority over domestic industries.&nbsp;"Today, we're taking historic action to bring down the price of energy and the cost of living for all Americans, with the power of clean, beautiful coal," Trump said.&nbsp;The announcement comes as Trump continues to roll back environmental regulations and dismisses human-induced climate change as "a hoax". Coal remains the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel and a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-rejects-truce-israeli-strikes-in-lebanon-kill-eight-a-day-after-ceasefire-announcement-1780616954076">Lebanon ceasefire unravels as Hezbollah rejects truce; Israeli strikes kill eight a day after announcement</a><h2>Why the US is pushing coal again</h2>The administration has justified the move by pointing to rising electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence, data centre expansion and electric vehicles. Officials argue that renewable energy sources such as wind and solar cannot provide consistent, round-the-clock baseload power required for growing digital infrastructure.&nbsp;Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum have said that maintaining coal plants is necessary to prevent future power shortages and ensure grid reliability. The Department of Energy has already issued emergency orders to keep ageing coal units operational despite planned retirements.&nbsp;The White House has also warned that electricity demand is rising faster than grid expansion, raising the risk of blackouts by 2030 if dependable power sources are reduced.<h2>National security angle</h2>The administration has further framed coal expansion as a national security issue. By invoking the Defence Production Act, officials argue that the United States must reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, particularly those linked to China in the renewable energy sector.&nbsp;The policy is being positioned as part of a broader strategy to strengthen domestic energy independence and secure critical infrastructure for emerging technologies.&nbsp;Trump has previously withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement twice. The first exit was announced in 2017, while the second followed an executive order after his return to office in 2025.

Trump, who has dismissed human-induced climate change as “a hoax,” has also withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement twice, once during his first term and again during his second term.

US President Donald Trump has announced $700 million in support for coal-related projects, marking a renewed push to expand reliance on one of the most polluting fossil fuels. The move has triggered renewed debate over why the US is turning further towards coal despite global climate concerns. Trump doubles down on coal push The funding will be deployed to keep more than a dozen coal plants running across ten US states and support 42 coal mines. The plan also includes building two new coal plants and developing a coal export terminal. The initiative will be executed using the Defence Production Act, a Cold War-era law passed in 1950 that allows the US president emergency authority over domestic industries. "Today, we're taking historic action to bring down the price of energy and the cost of living for all Americans, with the power of clean, beautiful coal," Trump said. The announcement comes as Trump continues to roll back environmental regulations and dismisses human-induced climate change as "a hoax". Coal remains the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel and a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. Also Read: Lebanon ceasefire unravels as Hezbollah rejects truce; Israeli strikes kill eight a day after announcement Why the US is pushing coal again The administration has justified the move by pointing to rising electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence, data centre expansion and electric vehicles. Officials argue that renewable energy sources such as wind and solar cannot provide consistent, round-the-clock baseload power required for growing digital infrastructure. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum have said that maintaining coal plants is necessary to prevent future power shortages and ensure grid reliability. The Department of Energy has already issued emergency orders to keep ageing coal units operational despite planned retirements. The White House has also warned that electricity demand is rising faster than grid expansion, raising the risk of blackouts by 2030 if dependable power sources are reduced. National security angle The administration has further framed coal expansion as a national security issue. By invoking the Defence Production Act, officials argue that the United States must reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, particularly those linked to China in the renewable energy sector. The policy is being positioned as part of a broader strategy to strengthen domestic energy independence and secure critical infrastructure for emerging technologies. Trump has previously withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement twice. The first exit was announced in 2017, while the second followed an executive order after his return to office in 2025.

Trump, who has dismissed human-induced climate change as “a hoax,” has also withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement twice, once during his first term and again during his second term.

Wion Decodes: Trump announces $700 mn support for coal projects; why the US president is pushing the most polluting fossil fuel

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jun 5) hinted that breakthroughs in the Iran conflict may be on the horizon but warned that killing American troops would be the red line that could restart the war. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, the POTUS also said he was open to meeting Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, while noting that he was not Iran's Supreme Leader's "favourite person".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-strikes-again-attacks-another-journalist-with-bizarre-comment-hatred-in-her-eyes-1780554898613">Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes'</a><h2>Trump's new goal ending 10 wars</h2>"A lot of people would say that I've ended eight wars and soon to be a ninth," Trump told reporters, adding that he hoped he can round up the number to 10 with Iran war. "I hope that works out to, you know, frankly, it's probably, and there's another one also that could be 10."He once again claimed that Iran's military had been wiped out. "There's no Navy. There's no Air Force. We've wiped them out." He added that the US has knocked out Tehran's anti-aircraft, air force, "just about everything you can knock out".The POTUS claimed that "almost all" of Iran's generals have been "wiped out"."They had to get new generals. And then after that, they didn't get more new generals," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/born-a-loser-still-a-loser-iran-mocks-trump-in-viral-ai-video-as-tehran-suspends-us-iran-talks-over-israel-s-lebanon-strikes-1780388120827">'Born a loser, still a loser': Iran mocks Trump in viral AI video as Tehran suspends US-Iran talks over Israel's Lebanon strikes</a><h2>Will the US restart the war with Iran?</h2>Alarmingly, Trump said that the US could restart the war with Iran. However, he insisted that this would happen if Tehran kills US troops. "Well, it would be a good reason. I'd be honest with you. Yeah, if they kill U.S. troops, I think I would do that very quickly," he said.<h2>Trump open to meeting Mojtaba</h2>The US president also said that he was willing to meet Iran's Supreme Leader. However, he insisted that he would meet only if Washington and Tehran struck a deal. Trump said that he was open to the meeting despite differences. "I'd be honoured to meet him."Despite the repeated verbal attacks on Mojtaba by his administration, Trump claimed that if a meeting happens, he would be "respectful". However, he noted that "I'm not his favourite person," presumably because the US wiped out Mojtaba's family in its strikes since February 28. "But with that being said, he's probably a professional in some circles," Trump added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Donald Trump says he sees a possible breakthrough in the Iran conflict and is even open to meeting Iran's leader. But the US president also issued a stark warning, saying any killing of American troops could trigger a rapid return to war.

Scroll down for Trump's latest comments on Iran.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jun 5) hinted that breakthroughs in the Iran conflict may be on the horizon but warned that killing American troops would be the red line that could restart the war. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, the POTUS also said he was open to meeting Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, while noting that he was not Iran's Supreme Leader's "favourite person". Also read | Trump strikes again, attacks another journalist with bizarre comment: 'Hatred in her eyes' Trump's new goal ending 10 wars "A lot of people would say that I've ended eight wars and soon to be a ninth," Trump told reporters, adding that he hoped he can round up the number to 10 with Iran war. "I hope that works out to, you know, frankly, it's probably, and there's another one also that could be 10." He once again claimed that Iran's military had been wiped out. "There's no Navy. There's no Air Force. We've wiped them out." He added that the US has knocked out Tehran's anti-aircraft, air force, "just about everything you can knock out". The POTUS claimed that "almost all" of Iran's generals have been "wiped out". "They had to get new generals. And then after that, they didn't get more new generals," he said. Also read | 'Born a loser, still a loser': Iran mocks Trump in viral AI video as Tehran suspends US-Iran talks over Israel's Lebanon strikes Will the US restart the war with Iran? Alarmingly, Trump said that the US could restart the war with Iran. However, he insisted that this would happen if Tehran kills US troops. "Well, it would be a good reason. I'd be honest with you. Yeah, if they kill U.S. troops, I think I would do that very quickly," he said. Trump open to meeting Mojtaba The US president also said that he was willing to meet Iran's Supreme Leader. However, he insisted that he would meet only if Washington and Tehran struck a deal. Trump said that he was open to the meeting despite differences. "I'd be honoured to meet him." Despite the repeated verbal attacks on Mojtaba by his administration, Trump claimed that if a meeting happens, he would be "respectful". However, he noted that "I'm not his favourite person," presumably because the US wiped out Mojtaba's family in its strikes since February 28. "But with that being said, he's probably a professional in some circles," Trump added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Donald Trump says he sees a possible breakthrough in the Iran conflict and is even open to meeting Iran's leader. But the US president also issued a stark warning, saying any killing of American troops could trigger a rapid return to war.Scroll down for Trump's latest comments on Iran.

Trump says he'd be 'honoured' to meet Mojtaba Khamenei, warns war could restart if Iran kills American troops

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Thursday (Jun 4) slammed the “aggressiveness and perversity” of the United States after US President Donald Trump’s administration announced new sanctions on him and some of his immediate family, alongside members of the Castro family. This comes as Washington ramps up pressure on its communist-led neighbour."The aggressiveness and perversity of the Yankee government will clash with our decision to confront the worst scenarios and resist the imperialist onslaught," Diaz-Canel wrote on X, adding that the sanctions "strengthen the blockade and scenario of conflict between Cuba and the United States."Among those targeted by the US sanctions were the son and a grandson of Raul Castro. While he no longer holds an official position, the former president remains a key power-broker on the island.While Cuba has been under a US trade embargo since 1962, Washington has intensified pressure by expanding sanctions against the island’s leadership, including Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel. The Trump administration argues that Cuba’s communist government poses a threat to US national security and has imposed measures targeting senior officials, members of the Castro family, and key state-controlled entities.Trump has also tightened restrictions on Cuba’s fuel supplies, worsening an already severe economic and energy crisis. In response, Díaz-Canel accused Washington of strengthening the blockade and escalating tensions between the two countries, while Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla condemned the sanctions as hostile and vowed resistance.The fuel shortages have severely impacted daily life across Cuba. Frequent power outages lasting up to 22 hours, transportation disruptions, and shortages of food, medicine, and clean water have left the country increasingly dependent on foreign aid and imports. Additional US restrictions have also disrupted financial transactions and tourism, further isolating the island economically.The humanitarian situation has raised international concern. As Cuba enters the Caribbean hurricane season while still recovering from previous storm damage, the United Nations warned that the combination of economic hardship, infrastructure failures, and natural disaster risks could create a major humanitarian emergency.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel condemned new U.S. sanctions imposed by the administration of Donald Trump, calling them aggressive and hostile, and vowed Cuba would resist US pressure.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Thursday (Jun 4) slammed the “aggressiveness and perversity” of the United States after US President Donald Trump’s administration announced new sanctions on him and some of his immediate family, alongside members of the Castro family. This comes as Washington ramps up pressure on its communist-led neighbour. "The aggressiveness and perversity of the Yankee government will clash with our decision to confront the worst scenarios and resist the imperialist onslaught," Diaz-Canel wrote on X, adding that the sanctions "strengthen the blockade and scenario of conflict between Cuba and the United States." Among those targeted by the US sanctions were the son and a grandson of Raul Castro. While he no longer holds an official position, the former president remains a key power-broker on the island. While Cuba has been under a US trade embargo since 1962, Washington has intensified pressure by expanding sanctions against the island’s leadership, including Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel. The Trump administration argues that Cuba’s communist government poses a threat to US national security and has imposed measures targeting senior officials, members of the Castro family, and key state-controlled entities. Trump has also tightened restrictions on Cuba’s fuel supplies, worsening an already severe economic and energy crisis. In response, Díaz-Canel accused Washington of strengthening the blockade and escalating tensions between the two countries, while Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla condemned the sanctions as hostile and vowed resistance. The fuel shortages have severely impacted daily life across Cuba. Frequent power outages lasting up to 22 hours, transportation disruptions, and shortages of food, medicine, and clean water have left the country increasingly dependent on foreign aid and imports. Additional US restrictions have also disrupted financial transactions and tourism, further isolating the island economically. The humanitarian situation has raised international concern. As Cuba enters the Caribbean hurricane season while still recovering from previous storm damage, the United Nations warned that the combination of economic hardship, infrastructure failures, and natural disaster risks could create a major humanitarian emergency.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel condemned new U.S. sanctions imposed by the administration of Donald Trump, calling them aggressive and hostile, and vowed Cuba would resist US pressure.

‘Aggressive and perverse’: Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel slams new US sanctions

More than a dozen Republican lawmakers broke ranks with their party leadership and President Donald Trump to side with Democrats in backing a major bill that provides billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine while imposing new sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;The House of Representatives voted 226 to 195 to pass the legislation, which introduces stricter oil and gas sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;House Speaker Mike Johnson had urged Republican members to oppose the bill, arguing in a closed-door meeting on Wednesday that they should allow Trump space to continue negotiations with Russia.&nbsp;However, 18 Republicans, along with one independent who frequently aligns with the party, ultimately supported the legislation. The vote is being seen as a direct challenge to Trump’s approach toward the Russia-Ukraine war and highlights growing divisions within the Republican Party over continued support for Kyiv. While some lawmakers argue that the United States should reduce its involvement in the conflict, others back continued assistance to Ukraine.&nbsp;The development comes as Trump expressed support for the idea of direct talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin following Zelensky’s proposal for face-to-face negotiations, while stressing that both sides would need to make concessions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/potential-for-hostilities-us-issues-fresh-security-alert-for-citizens-across-14-middle-east-countries-1780612661120">'Potential for hostilities': US issues fresh security alert for citizens across 14 Middle East countries</a>&nbsp;"I'm glad that they're maybe talking about meeting. I think we had a lot to do with it," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "I think it would be great if they met. They should -- get it done."&nbsp;Trump, who has faced criticism for his contrasting approach toward the two leaders, including a past confrontation with Zelensky in the Oval Office and a separate invitation to Putin for a summit in Alaska, had previously pledged to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office.&nbsp;He has continued to push both sides toward negotiations, although much of his recent focus has been on the Iran conflict involving the United States and Israel, which escalated earlier this year.&nbsp;"They're going to both make compromises, I suggested those compromises, and you know, we've had a lot to do with it," Trump said, without providing further details.

The bill was supported by 18 Republicans, marking a rebuke of Trump’s position on Russia’s war in Ukraine and exposing divisions within the GOP.

More than a dozen Republican lawmakers broke ranks with their party leadership and President Donald Trump to side with Democrats in backing a major bill that provides billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine while imposing new sanctions on Russia. The House of Representatives voted 226 to 195 to pass the legislation, which introduces stricter oil and gas sanctions on Russia. House Speaker Mike Johnson had urged Republican members to oppose the bill, arguing in a closed-door meeting on Wednesday that they should allow Trump space to continue negotiations with Russia. However, 18 Republicans, along with one independent who frequently aligns with the party, ultimately supported the legislation. The vote is being seen as a direct challenge to Trump’s approach toward the Russia-Ukraine war and highlights growing divisions within the Republican Party over continued support for Kyiv. While some lawmakers argue that the United States should reduce its involvement in the conflict, others back continued assistance to Ukraine. The development comes as Trump expressed support for the idea of direct talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin following Zelensky’s proposal for face-to-face negotiations, while stressing that both sides would need to make concessions. Also Read: 'Potential for hostilities': US issues fresh security alert for citizens across 14 Middle East countries "I'm glad that they're maybe talking about meeting. I think we had a lot to do with it," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "I think it would be great if they met. They should -- get it done." Trump, who has faced criticism for his contrasting approach toward the two leaders, including a past confrontation with Zelensky in the Oval Office and a separate invitation to Putin for a summit in Alaska, had previously pledged to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office. He has continued to push both sides toward negotiations, although much of his recent focus has been on the Iran conflict involving the United States and Israel, which escalated earlier this year. "They're going to both make compromises, I suggested those compromises, and you know, we've had a lot to do with it," Trump said, without providing further details.

The bill was supported by 18 Republicans, marking a rebuke of Trump’s position on Russia’s war in Ukraine and exposing divisions within the GOP.

US House approves Ukraine aid and Russia sanctions in setback to Trump

Israeli airstrikes killed eight people in Lebanon on Thursday, according to the country's health ministry, a day after Lebanese and Israeli officials agreed to a new ceasefire framework aimed at ending months of cross-border fighting.&nbsp;Five people were killed in an Israeli strike in eastern Lebanon, while another attack near the southern city of Tyre left three more dead. The ministry said eight others were wounded in the strikes, including three children and two women.&nbsp;The attacks came shortly after Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected the newly announced truce proposal, insisting that any agreement must include a complete ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory. He also warned that northern Israel would remain vulnerable to attacks if hostilities continued.<h2>Hezbollah rejects conditional ceasefire proposal</h2>Qassem's remarks followed an agreement reached by Lebanese and Israeli representatives in the United States on a conditional ceasefire plan on Wednesday. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had described the proposal as the "last chance" to secure a lasting end to the conflict.&nbsp;However, Hezbollah dismissed the initiative and criticised ongoing contacts between Beirut and Tel Aviv. The group has also rejected the broader Israel-Lebanon talks, arguing that previous agreements have failed to stop the violence.&nbsp;"The ceasefire must be comprehensive... without the Israeli enemy having the freedom to kill," Qassem said on Thursday, calling on the Lebanese government to end what he described as "the farce and humiliation called direct talks" with Israel.&nbsp;He also warned that "as long as our villages are unsafe, being bombed, destroyed, and our people killed, the settlements (north Israel) are unsafe".&nbsp;The latest ceasefire effort comes after a previous truce announced on April 17 was repeatedly violated. Israeli forces remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah continues to launch attacks across the border.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-lebanon-agree-to-implement-ceasefire-following-us-led-talks-in-washington-1780534267316">Israel and Lebanon agree to implement ceasefire following US-led talks in Washington</a>&nbsp;Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military would "at this stage, continue its fire and ground operations... without the return of the population, while continuing to dismantle terrorist infrastructure".&nbsp;He added that Israeli forces retained the "freedom of action, with American backing, to strike in Beirut in response to fire on Israeli communities and territory".&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Israeli military said Captain Eitan Shmuel Lemberg, 21, was killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon. It was the first Israeli military fatality reported since the announcement of the latest ceasefire proposal.

The development follows an agreement reached a day earlier between Israel and Lebanon during US-led talks in Washington to work towards a ceasefire, contingent on a “complete cessation” of hostilities by Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Israeli airstrikes killed eight people in Lebanon on Thursday, according to the country's health ministry, a day after Lebanese and Israeli officials agreed to a new ceasefire framework aimed at ending months of cross-border fighting. Five people were killed in an Israeli strike in eastern Lebanon, while another attack near the southern city of Tyre left three more dead. The ministry said eight others were wounded in the strikes, including three children and two women. The attacks came shortly after Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected the newly announced truce proposal, insisting that any agreement must include a complete ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory. He also warned that northern Israel would remain vulnerable to attacks if hostilities continued. Hezbollah rejects conditional ceasefire proposal Qassem's remarks followed an agreement reached by Lebanese and Israeli representatives in the United States on a conditional ceasefire plan on Wednesday. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had described the proposal as the "last chance" to secure a lasting end to the conflict. However, Hezbollah dismissed the initiative and criticised ongoing contacts between Beirut and Tel Aviv. The group has also rejected the broader Israel-Lebanon talks, arguing that previous agreements have failed to stop the violence. "The ceasefire must be comprehensive... without the Israeli enemy having the freedom to kill," Qassem said on Thursday, calling on the Lebanese government to end what he described as "the farce and humiliation called direct talks" with Israel. He also warned that "as long as our villages are unsafe, being bombed, destroyed, and our people killed, the settlements (north Israel) are unsafe". The latest ceasefire effort comes after a previous truce announced on April 17 was repeatedly violated. Israeli forces remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah continues to launch attacks across the border. Also Read: Israel and Lebanon agree to implement ceasefire following US-led talks in Washington Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military would "at this stage, continue its fire and ground operations... without the return of the population, while continuing to dismantle terrorist infrastructure". He added that Israeli forces retained the "freedom of action, with American backing, to strike in Beirut in response to fire on Israeli communities and territory". Meanwhile, the Israeli military said Captain Eitan Shmuel Lemberg, 21, was killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon. It was the first Israeli military fatality reported since the announcement of the latest ceasefire proposal.

The development follows an agreement reached a day earlier between Israel and Lebanon during US-led talks in Washington to work towards a ceasefire, contingent on a “complete cessation” of hostilities by Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Lebanon ceasefire unravels as Hezbollah rejects truce; Israeli strikes kill eight a day after announcement

The United States has issued a fresh travel advisory for 14 countries across the Middle East, citing heightened regional tensions and a security situation that remains volatile and subject to rapid change.&nbsp;In an advisory issued by the US Department of State, embassies in the region urged American citizens to remain vigilant as ongoing instability continues to affect travel conditions. The department said the security environment remains uncertain because of elevated tensions across the Middle East.&nbsp;“Due to high tensions in the region, the security&nbsp;environment&nbsp;remains&nbsp;complex&nbsp;and can change quickly. &nbsp;We remind U.S. citizens in the Middle East of the continued need for caution and encourage them to monitor the news for breaking developments,” the American embassy in Iraq said in a statement, adding, “Potential for Hostilities:  US citizens should know the location of the nearest shelter in the event of hostilities.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Middle East: Due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly. We remind U.S. citizens in the Middle East of the continued need for caution and encourage them to monitor the news for breaking developments. The State Department… <a href="https://t.co/C2JgNEsLRc">pic.twitter.com/C2JgNEsLRc</a>&mdash; TravelGov (@TravelGov) <a href="https://x.com/TravelGov/status/2062612487711732170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>US maintains Level 3 and Level 4 travel advisories</h3>The State Department has retained its Level 3 advisory, which urges travellers to "reconsider travel", for Bahrain, Israel, the West Bank, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;A Level 3 advisory does not prohibit travel but recommends that individuals carefully assess the risks before visiting these destinations.&nbsp;The department issued its highest warning level, Level 4 or "do not travel", for Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and Yemen because of ongoing security concerns and conflict-related risks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-direct-meeting-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-war-kremlin-says-he-can-visit-moscow-anytime-1780603266292">Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime</a><h3>Advisory issued amid regional security concerns</h3>The latest warning comes as tensions between the United States and Iran continue despite a ceasefire being in place. Recent exchanges of military strikes have raised concerns about regional stability and the safety of foreign nationals in the area.&nbsp;The advisory also follows a drone attack at Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday that left one Indian national dead and injured 68 others.&nbsp;Despite the recent incidents, US President Donald Trump downplayed the latest strikes and expressed optimism that a broader agreement could be reached over the weekend.

The US has maintained a Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisory for countries including Israel, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while keeping its highest Level 4 "do not travel" warning in place for Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and Yemen due to ongoing security risks.

The United States has issued a fresh travel advisory for 14 countries across the Middle East, citing heightened regional tensions and a security situation that remains volatile and subject to rapid change. In an advisory issued by the US Department of State, embassies in the region urged American citizens to remain vigilant as ongoing instability continues to affect travel conditions. The department said the security environment remains uncertain because of elevated tensions across the Middle East. “Due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly.  We remind U.S. citizens in the Middle East of the continued need for caution and encourage them to monitor the news for breaking developments,” the American embassy in Iraq said in a statement, adding, “Potential for Hostilities:  US citizens should know the location of the nearest shelter in the event of hostilities.”

The US has maintained a Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisory for countries including Israel, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while keeping its highest Level 4 "do not travel" warning in place for Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and Yemen due to ongoing security risks.

'Potential for hostilities': US issues fresh security alert for citizens across 14 Middle East countries

The United States on Thursday (June 04) imposed fresh sanctions on Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, members of his family and relatives of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, marking the latest escalation in Washington's pressure campaign against the communist-run island.&nbsp;Among those sanctioned are Díaz-Canel, his wife and stepson, along with Alejandro Castro Espín, the son of Raúl Castro, and other members of the Castro family. The US Treasury Department also targeted Cuba's Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and several other entities linked to the government.&nbsp;The move comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten restrictions on Havana despite the decades-old US embargo already in place. In recent months, Washington has expanded sanctions, imposed new economic restrictions and increased pressure on Cuba's leadership and key state-controlled sectors.&nbsp;Relations between Washington and Havana have deteriorated sharply following a series of aggressive US policy measures. Tensions intensified in May after US prosecutors filed criminal charges against former Cuban president Raúl Castro over the 1996 downing of a civilian aircraft operated by Miami-based Cuban exiles.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-direct-meeting-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-war-kremlin-says-he-can-visit-moscow-anytime-1780603266292">Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime</a>&nbsp;The latest sanctions also come against the backdrop of Cuba's deepening economic and energy crisis. A de facto fuel blockade and broader US restrictions have strained the island's economy, contributing to shortages and prolonged energy disruptions. Recent measures have also affected Cuba's ability to process international card payments and attract foreign investment.&nbsp;Washington had already imposed visa restrictions on Díaz-Canel and other senior Cuban officials in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Trump administration has repeatedly indicated that it intends to maintain maximum pressure on the Cuban government, with the US president suggesting that Cuba could face the same sustained campaign that Washington previously directed at Venezuela.

The Trump administration has signalled that it will continue its maximum-pressure strategy against Cuba, similar to the campaign previously aimed at Venezuela.

The United States on Thursday (June 04) imposed fresh sanctions on Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, members of his family and relatives of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, marking the latest escalation in Washington's pressure campaign against the communist-run island. Among those sanctioned are Díaz-Canel, his wife and stepson, along with Alejandro Castro Espín, the son of Raúl Castro, and other members of the Castro family. The US Treasury Department also targeted Cuba's Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and several other entities linked to the government. The move comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten restrictions on Havana despite the decades-old US embargo already in place. In recent months, Washington has expanded sanctions, imposed new economic restrictions and increased pressure on Cuba's leadership and key state-controlled sectors. Relations between Washington and Havana have deteriorated sharply following a series of aggressive US policy measures. Tensions intensified in May after US prosecutors filed criminal charges against former Cuban president Raúl Castro over the 1996 downing of a civilian aircraft operated by Miami-based Cuban exiles. Also Read: Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime The latest sanctions also come against the backdrop of Cuba's deepening economic and energy crisis. A de facto fuel blockade and broader US restrictions have strained the island's economy, contributing to shortages and prolonged energy disruptions. Recent measures have also affected Cuba's ability to process international card payments and attract foreign investment. Washington had already imposed visa restrictions on Díaz-Canel and other senior Cuban officials in 2025. The Trump administration has repeatedly indicated that it intends to maintain maximum pressure on the Cuban government, with the US president suggesting that Cuba could face the same sustained campaign that Washington previously directed at Venezuela.

The Trump administration has signalled that it will continue its maximum-pressure strategy against Cuba, similar to the campaign previously aimed at Venezuela.

Trump administration imposes sanctions on Cuban president, relatives of Raúl Castro

An Indian-origin cardiac surgeon has performed what is being described as the world's longest-distance robotic telesurgery, operating on a patient in India from more than 20,000 kilometres away in Guyana. Dr Sudhir Srivastava successfully carried out a robot-assisted coronary artery bypass using made-in-India surgical robotic technology. The procedure, which lasted four hours and 50 minutes, linked Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation in Guyana with IRCAD India in Indore.&nbsp;The landmark operation took place on 26 May, coinciding with Guyana's diamond jubilee celebrations. It marks a significant breakthrough in telesurgery, demonstrating that complex cardiac procedures can be performed remotely across continents with precision."A landmark cardiac telesurgery procedure was conducted on the 26th of May, on our diamond jubilee at 6 am," said Guyana's President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. "The team performed a coronary artery bypass. The surgery was performed by Dr Sudhir Srivastava.&nbsp;He operated remotely from Guyana on a patient in Indore, India, using the SSI robotic system. It covered a distance of 20,000 km, making it the longest distance telesurgery ever attempted."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-direct-meeting-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-war-kremlin-says-he-can-visit-moscow-anytime-1780603266292">Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime</a>&nbsp;The technology used was the indigenously developed SSI Mantra and SSI MantraAsana Surgical Robotic Systems.&nbsp;Guyana's High Commissioner to India, Dharamkumar Seeraj, highlighted the broader significance of the collaboration. "It has been growing. Our President Ali has studied here in India; his views and influence are impacted by what is happening in India. We have enjoyed long historical ties with India. We are celebrating 60 years of establishing diplomatic ties with India," he said.&nbsp;The High Commissioner explained, "The president wants to make Guyana a health hub, not only for the Caribbean but for Latin America. The SII platform is proving that partnership with India can put us among the best in the world, in healthcare, in our locality, but also remotely. In Guyana, the terrain can be challenging. With this technology, we can provide world-class health care for patients suffering." . The development comes as India strengthens its position in medical technology innovation, particularly in robotics. Supporters say the feat not only sets a new global benchmark but could transform healthcare delivery in remote and underserved regions worldwide.

Dr Sudhir Srivastava performed a robot-assisted coronary artery bypass using Indian-developed robotic technology, remotely connecting a hospital in Guyana with IRCAD India in Indore.

An Indian-origin cardiac surgeon has performed what is being described as the world's longest-distance robotic telesurgery, operating on a patient in India from more than 20,000 kilometres away in Guyana. Dr Sudhir Srivastava successfully carried out a robot-assisted coronary artery bypass using made-in-India surgical robotic technology. The procedure, which lasted four hours and 50 minutes, linked Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation in Guyana with IRCAD India in Indore. The landmark operation took place on 26 May, coinciding with Guyana's diamond jubilee celebrations. It marks a significant breakthrough in telesurgery, demonstrating that complex cardiac procedures can be performed remotely across continents with precision. "A landmark cardiac telesurgery procedure was conducted on the 26th of May, on our diamond jubilee at 6 am," said Guyana's President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. "The team performed a coronary artery bypass. The surgery was performed by Dr Sudhir Srivastava. He operated remotely from Guyana on a patient in Indore, India, using the SSI robotic system. It covered a distance of 20,000 km, making it the longest distance telesurgery ever attempted." Also Read: Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime The technology used was the indigenously developed SSI Mantra and SSI MantraAsana Surgical Robotic Systems. Guyana's High Commissioner to India, Dharamkumar Seeraj, highlighted the broader significance of the collaboration. "It has been growing. Our President Ali has studied here in India; his views and influence are impacted by what is happening in India. We have enjoyed long historical ties with India. We are celebrating 60 years of establishing diplomatic ties with India," he said. The High Commissioner explained, "The president wants to make Guyana a health hub, not only for the Caribbean but for Latin America. The SII platform is proving that partnership with India can put us among the best in the world, in healthcare, in our locality, but also remotely. In Guyana, the terrain can be challenging. With this technology, we can provide world-class health care for patients suffering." . The development comes as India strengthens its position in medical technology innovation, particularly in robotics. Supporters say the feat not only sets a new global benchmark but could transform healthcare delivery in remote and underserved regions worldwide.

Dr Sudhir Srivastava performed a robot-assisted coronary artery bypass using Indian-developed robotic technology, remotely connecting a hospital in Guyana with IRCAD India in Indore.

Guyana to India: 20,000 km robotic heart bypass sets new global record

Trade negotiations between India and the United States moved closer to an interim agreement after both sides wrapped up four days of discussions in New Delhi, with the Commerce Ministry describing the talks as constructive and positive.&nbsp;A delegation from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), led by the chief negotiator, visited India from June 1 to June 4 to advance discussions on the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).&nbsp;In a statement, the Commerce Ministry said the talks were held in a spirit of cooperation and pragmatism, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to deepening trade and economic ties through a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement.&nbsp;The discussions covered a range of issues, including trade in goods, customs and trade facilitation measures, non-tariff barriers, economic security cooperation and other areas of shared interest.&nbsp;The ongoing negotiations are based on a Joint Statement issued by India and the United States on February 7, 2026, under which the two countries agreed to pursue an interim trade arrangement while continuing work on a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-direct-meeting-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-war-kremlin-says-he-can-visit-moscow-anytime-1780603266292">Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime</a>&nbsp;The latest round of talks comes amid expectations that the first tranche of the deal could be concluded in the near future. Last week, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said negotiations had entered the final stage, with only around 1 per cent of the agreement yet to be resolved.&nbsp;The New Delhi discussions followed an earlier round of in-person negotiations held in Washington DC between April 20 and April 23.&nbsp;Meanwhile, another potential point of concern has emerged as the USTR proposes fresh tariffs on imports from India and several other major economies following investigations covering 60 jurisdictions. The proposed action under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 is linked to concerns over products allegedly associated with forced labour.&nbsp;Under the proposal, economies that have implemented restrictions on such imports could face tariffs of 10 per cent, while those without similar safeguards may be subject to duties of up to 12.5 per cent. India, China, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Bangladesh and Vietnam are among the economies included in the review.

The talks are being held under the framework established in a Joint Statement released by India and the US on February 7, where both sides agreed to work towards an interim trade deal alongside a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.

Trade negotiations between India and the United States moved closer to an interim agreement after both sides wrapped up four days of discussions in New Delhi, with the Commerce Ministry describing the talks as constructive and positive. A delegation from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), led by the chief negotiator, visited India from June 1 to June 4 to advance discussions on the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). In a statement, the Commerce Ministry said the talks were held in a spirit of cooperation and pragmatism, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to deepening trade and economic ties through a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement. The discussions covered a range of issues, including trade in goods, customs and trade facilitation measures, non-tariff barriers, economic security cooperation and other areas of shared interest. The ongoing negotiations are based on a Joint Statement issued by India and the United States on February 7, 2026, under which the two countries agreed to pursue an interim trade arrangement while continuing work on a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement. Also Read: Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime The latest round of talks comes amid expectations that the first tranche of the deal could be concluded in the near future. Last week, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said negotiations had entered the final stage, with only around 1 per cent of the agreement yet to be resolved. The New Delhi discussions followed an earlier round of in-person negotiations held in Washington DC between April 20 and April 23. Meanwhile, another potential point of concern has emerged as the USTR proposes fresh tariffs on imports from India and several other major economies following investigations covering 60 jurisdictions. The proposed action under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 is linked to concerns over products allegedly associated with forced labour. Under the proposal, economies that have implemented restrictions on such imports could face tariffs of 10 per cent, while those without similar safeguards may be subject to duties of up to 12.5 per cent. India, China, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Bangladesh and Vietnam are among the economies included in the review.

The talks are being held under the framework established in a Joint Statement released by India and the US on February 7, where both sides agreed to work towards an interim trade deal alongside a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.

India, US edge closer to interim trade agreement after four days of New Delhi talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed readiness for a complete ceasefire during negotiations aimed at ending the war.&nbsp;In an open letter published on the Ukrainian presidency's website on Thursday, Zelensky called for face-to-face talks with the Russian leader, saying direct engagement could help revive stalled peace efforts.&nbsp;"Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between you and us. I am proposing a meeting," Zelensky wrote, adding “Ukraine is ready for a full ceasefire for the duration of the negotiations.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Open Letter To the President of the Russian Federation From the President of Ukraine When you came to power in Russia more than 26 years ago, many people in Ukraine viewed you positively. That is how it was. But that is now in the past. Now, the overwhelming majority of…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2062616228817154218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Zelensky also proposed an all-for-all exchange of prisoners of war, describing it as a potential first step towards a broader peace settlement. He said such an exchange could serve as a "good prologue to ending the war".&nbsp;The proposal comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have largely reached an impasse. Several rounds of negotiations in Istanbul, Abu Dhabi and Geneva have failed to produce a breakthrough, particularly on the issue of territory. US led peace initiatives have also remained largely frozen in recent months amid the fallout from the Iran conflict.&nbsp;Responding to the letter, the Kremlin said Zelensky would be welcome to meet Putin in Moscow.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pawan-khera-to-make-rajya-sabha-debut-after-assam-fir-row-congress-releases-list-of-candidates-1780601461682">Pawan Khera to make Rajya Sabha debut after Assam FIR row; Congress releases list of candidates</a>&nbsp;"Zelensky can come at any time to Moscow," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by Russian state media. However, he added that Putin had not yet been shown the letter.<h2>Putin says Ukraine must also make concessions</h2>Meanwhile, Putin said US President Donald Trump had urged Russia to make concessions as part of a potential peace agreement and indicated that Moscow was prepared to do so if Ukraine showed similar flexibility.&nbsp;Speaking on Thursday, Putin said Russia was "ready to make a deal with Ukraine peacefully" and maintained that Moscow remained open to negotiations. At the same time, he argued that any future settlement would require compromises from Kyiv."Ukraine also needs to compromise," Putin said.&nbsp;The Russian president further claimed that Russian forces now control more than 85 per cent of the Donetsk region and had recently captured around 2,440 square kilometres of Ukrainian territory. He also described Ukraine's manpower situation as a "catastrophic lack of personnel", claiming that Kyiv's military was facing growing difficulties along the front line.

Putin on Thursday said US President Donald Trump had asked Russia to show flexibility in negotiations over a Ukraine peace settlement, adding that Moscow was ready to make compromises provided Kyiv did the same.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed readiness for a complete ceasefire during negotiations aimed at ending the war. In an open letter published on the Ukrainian presidency's website on Thursday, Zelensky called for face-to-face talks with the Russian leader, saying direct engagement could help revive stalled peace efforts. "Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between you and us. I am proposing a meeting," Zelensky wrote, adding “Ukraine is ready for a full ceasefire for the duration of the negotiations.”

Putin on Thursday said US President Donald Trump had asked Russia to show flexibility in negotiations over a Ukraine peace settlement, adding that Moscow was ready to make compromises provided Kyiv did the same.

Zelensky proposes direct meeting with Putin to end Ukraine war; Kremlin says he can visit Moscow anytime

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