"UN Condemns Alabama's First Nitrogen Gas Execution as Inhumane"

The UN, EU, and activists have condemned Alabama's execution of Kenneth Eugene Smith using nitrogen gas, with witnesses describing his violent thrashing during the process. Smith was convicted of murdering a preacher's wife in 1989. The use of nitrogen gas for execution has sparked international criticism, with concerns raised about its potential for causing torture or cruel treatment. Alabama officials defended the execution, stating that it went as planned, while the Biden administration expressed concern and reaffirmed a moratorium on federal executions. Smith's last words expressed disappointment in the step backward for humanity caused by the execution.