Two earthquakes struck Venezuela's Caribbean coast, leaving over 1,700 dead and tens of thousands missing. Survivors are being rescued days later, but hope fades amid economic crisis. International aid is arriving, but the government's response and past corruption are questioned.
The Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S., regardless of parents' immigration status. The 6-3 decision rejected President Trump's attempt to limit immigration, affirming the 14th Amendment's promise of citizenship. The court also ruled on transgender athletes and campaign finance.
Justice Clarence Thomas argues the Supreme Court's birthright citizenship ruling "devalues" American citizenship, suggesting it was intended only for formerly enslaved Black people. Justice Samuel Alito also dissented, concerned about "birth tourists."
The US Supreme Court affirmed birthright citizenship, ruling that nearly all individuals born on US soil are citizens, thereby rejecting a key element of Donald Trump's anti-immigrant agenda. Chief Justice John Roberts stated the executive order attempting to deny citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants violated the 14th Amendment.
The US DHS proposes a 75-80% increase in naturalization application fees (Form N-400), rising to $1,330 (paper) and $1,280 (online), affecting thousands of Indian green card holders. Reduced fees and waivers for low-income applicants would be eliminated.
Indian professionals and students face increasing uncertainty and complexity in US immigration policies, from visa applications and H-1B selections to green card processes. Frequent policy changes, heightened scrutiny, and lengthy backlogs are making the traditional path to permanent residency a 'nightmare', prompting exploration of alternative destinations.
Indian professionals and students pursuing the 'American Dream' are encountering significant challenges due to frequent US policy changes, increased scrutiny on visas like H-1B, and uncertainties surrounding green card applications. This has led to growing exploration of alternative destinations.
Kenyan police killed at least one protester and injured another during demonstrations against a planned US-run Ebola quarantine center in Nanyuki, despite local opposition and a temporary court block.
The US has implemented a new policy requiring travelers from Uganda, South Sudan, and the DRC to enter through specific airports due to the Ebola outbreak. Medical student Michal Ruprecht was among the first to experience the new screening procedures upon arrival at Dulles International Airport.
The US announced criminal charges against a Cuban official for the 1996 downing of two civilian planes. China condemned the sanctions, supporting Cuba's sovereignty.
Congress approved a short-term extension of Section 702 of FISA, allowing warrantless surveillance of foreign intelligence targets, after GOP hard-liners blocked longer proposals. President Trump signed the bill extending the program to April 30. The controversy centers on privacy concerns and calls for reforms to protect Americans, with supporters citing its role in thwarting threats including a planned terrorist attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Austria.
