Americas
Moderna begins trial of Omicron-specific vaccine booster
The booster specifically targeting Omicron will therefore be evaluated as both a third and a fourth dose
Former VP Ansari, 4 US lawmakers express concern over human rights situation in India
India has rejected criticism by foreign governments and human rights groups on allegations that civil liberties have eroded in the country
US rejects Russia demand on Ukraine but talks see new life
The US has warned of severe and swift consequences if Russia invades, including possible personal sanctions on President Vladimir Putin
Pfizer begins testing omicron-matched COVID shots in adults
COVID-19 vaccine-makers have been updating their shots to better match omicron in case global health authorities decide the change is needed
Biden answers inflation query by calling Fox reporter SOB
Fox News’ Peter Doocy asked Biden about inflation, which is at a nearly 40-year high and has hurt the president’s public approval
Explainer: What are US options for sanctions against Putin?
The US and European allies have promised to hit Russia financially like never before
US orders 8,500 troops on heightened alert amid Russia worry
Biden held an 80-minute video call with several European leaders on the Russian military buildup and potential responses to an invasion
Booster shots needed against omicron, CDC studies show
Three shots of Pfizer, Moderna jabs were about 67% effective against omicron-related symptomatic disease compared with unvaccinated people
Top university system in US adds caste to its non-discriminatory policy
This victory in getting caste protections is, though long overdue, also very historic
US Senate sinks Biden push for major voting rights reforms
The legislation would have guaranteed the right to mail-in voting, ballot drop boxes and at least two weeks of early voting