Canadian Prime Minister Justin&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;on Friday shook up his cabinet, changing one-third of his team as political turmoil threatens his leadership and tensions erupt with incoming US president Donald Trump.

The reshuffle came at the end of a chaotic week in Ottawa spurred by the surprise resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland following disagreement with her boss over Trump's threats to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian imports.

Her exit, after nearly a decade at&nbsp;Trudeau's side, marked the first open dissent against the prime minister from within his cabinet and has emboldened critics.

Since then,&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;has hunkered down with advisors as he reportedly contemplates his own political future amid calls for him to step down ahead of elections scheduled for October 2025 but expected much sooner.

In Friday's reset, eight new ministers were appointed to replace those in the 35-member cabinet who have signaled they will not seek reelection, and to relieve others of their double or triple duties in government.

Four current ministers were also given new responsibilities.

Freeland, who also quit her role as finance minister, has said she would seek reelection next year.

<h2>Behind in the polls</h2>

Trudeau's childhood friend and ally Dominic LeBlanc was already sworn in as the new finance minister hours after Freeland quit.

He also took over the reins from her on negotiating with the incoming Trump administration.

Several cabinet recruits, as they headed into the swearing-in ceremony Friday, declared their confidence in&nbsp;Trudeau.

But part of his caucus has urged him to resign, worried that voter fatigue with his leadership will hamstring the Liberals in the next election.

Trudeau&nbsp;swept to power in 2015 and led the Liberals to two more ballot box victories in 2019 and 2021.&nbsp;

But he now trails by 20 points his main rival, Conservative Pierre Poilievre, in public opinion polls. And his Liberals lost four by-elections this year.

Compounding those woes,&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;faces the possibility that Trump in January will slap 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, accusing both of allowing the United States to be flooded with illicit drugs, namely fentanyl, and undocumented migrants.

More than 75 percent of Canadian exports go to the United States and nearly two million Canadian jobs depend on trade.

In her resignation letter, Freeland warned this could lead to a "tariff war" with the United States and urged Ottawa to keep its "fiscal powder dry" while rebuking&nbsp;Trudeau's spendthrift policies.

Trudeau&nbsp;last month traveled to Florida to meet with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in a bid to head off a trade war.

Trump called the talks over dinner "very productive."

But since then the president-elect has also landed humiliating blows against&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;on social media, repeatedly calling him "governor" of Canada and declaring that the United States' northern neighbor becoming the 51st US state is a "great idea."

Political analysts and officials have said the taunts appeared aimed at putting&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;on the back foot in bilateral negotiations.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday shook up his cabinet, changing one-third of his team as political turmoil threatens his leadership and tensions erupt with incoming US president Donald Trump.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday shook up his cabinet, changing one-third of his team as political turmoil threatens his leadership and tensions erupt with incoming US president Donald Trump. The reshuffle came at the end of a chaotic week in Ottawa spurred by the surprise resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland following disagreement with her boss over Trump's threats to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian imports. Her exit, after nearly a decade at Trudeau's side, marked the first open dissent against the prime minister from within his cabinet and has emboldened critics. Since then, Trudeau has hunkered down with advisors as he reportedly contemplates his own political future amid calls for him to step down ahead of elections scheduled for October 2025 but expected much sooner. In Friday's reset, eight new ministers were appointed to replace those in the 35-member cabinet who have signaled they will not seek reelection, and to relieve others of their double or triple duties in government. Four current ministers were also given new responsibilities. Freeland, who also quit her role as finance minister, has said she would seek reelection next year. Behind in the polls Trudeau's childhood friend and ally Dominic LeBlanc was already sworn in as the new finance minister hours after Freeland quit. He also took over the reins from her on negotiating with the incoming Trump administration. Several cabinet recruits, as they headed into the swearing-in ceremony Friday, declared their confidence in Trudeau. But part of his caucus has urged him to resign, worried that voter fatigue with his leadership will hamstring the Liberals in the next election. Trudeau swept to power in 2015 and led the Liberals to two more ballot box victories in 2019 and 2021. But he now trails by 20 points his main rival, Conservative Pierre Poilievre, in public opinion polls. And his Liberals lost four by-elections this year. Compounding those woes, Trudeau faces the possibility that Trump in January will slap 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, accusing both of allowing the United States to be flooded with illicit drugs, namely fentanyl, and undocumented migrants. More than 75 percent of Canadian exports go to the United States and nearly two million Canadian jobs depend on trade. In her resignation letter, Freeland warned this could lead to a "tariff war" with the United States and urged Ottawa to keep its "fiscal powder dry" while rebuking Trudeau's spendthrift policies. Trudeau last month traveled to Florida to meet with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in a bid to head off a trade war. Trump called the talks over dinner "very productive." But since then the president-elect has also landed humiliating blows against Trudeau on social media, repeatedly calling him "governor" of Canada and declaring that the United States' northern neighbor becoming the 51st US state is a "great idea." Political analysts and officials have said the taunts appeared aimed at putting Trudeau on the back foot in bilateral negotiations. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau changes one-third of his team

A delegation of US diplomats, who arrived in Syria on Friday (Dec 20), had a "positive" meeting with the country's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, aka Abu Mohammad al-Julani.

A delegation of US diplomats, who arrived in Syria on Friday (Dec 20), had a "positive" meeting with the country's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, aka Abu Mohammad al-Julani. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a Syrian official who chose to remain anonymous said, "The meeting took place, and it was positive. And the results will be positive, God willing." Al-Sharra leads the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that swept Bashar al-Assad from power earlier this month, ending the family's 50-year-long iron-fisted rule. Though the ouster of Asad ended decades of abuses and years of civil war, the formation of Syria's new rulers has raised concerns over minorities and women's rights. Here's a look at the updates from Syria: > This was the first formal visit by US officials to Syria since the early days of the civil war that erupted after Assad cracked down on anti-government protests in 2011. Also read | HTS leader says Syrian rebel fighters to be placed under ‘defence ministry’, calls on West to lift sanctions > According to the US State Department, the delegation would also meet with activists, minority groups and civil society representatives in Syria. > The delegation includes Barbara Leaf, the top State Department official for West Asia, as well as the US point man on hostages, who has been seeking clues on missing Americans including Austin Tice, a journalist who was kidnapped in Syria in August 2012. > Recently at talks in Jordan- Western, Arab, and Turkish powers jointly called for an "inclusive, non-sectarian and representative government" that respects the rights of all of Syria's diverse communities. > On Friday, Syrians gathered in Damascus to celebrate the toppling of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Visuals from the news agency Reuters showed a mass celebration in Umayyad Square which was called by the HTS. Also watch | The West Asia Post: Who will shape Syria's future? > A day earlier, the Pentagon said that it had 2,000 US troops in Syria, far higher than the previously public number of 900, saying that the additional troops considered temporary forces that had been sent to support the counter-Islamic State's (ISIS) mission. > The US military said on Friday that it killed an ISIS leader and another of the terrorist organisation's members in a strike in Syria. > The strike took place Thursday in Deir Ezzor province in eastern Syria, killing IS leader "Abu Yusif" and another operative, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on social media, without providing further details on the two ISIS members. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US diplomats have 'positive meeting' with new Syrian leader

England has seen "a catastrophic rise" in deaths caused solely due to alcohol consumption in the last four years, British media reported late Thursday (Dec 19) citing government figures.

England has seen "a catastrophic rise" in deaths caused solely due to alcohol consumption in the last four years, British media reported late Thursday (Dec 19) citing government figures. According to the data over 8,200 people died due to alcohol consumption last year- a 42 per cent rise on 2019. Alcohol deaths rose sharply across UK during Covid pandemic A report by BBC late Thursday said that during the Covid pandemic (which began in 2020), deaths caused by alcohol rose sharply across the United Kingdom (UK). Also read | 'Mistake,' UK PM office apologises after meat, alcohol served at Downing Street Diwali event The report said that heavier drinkers were drinking more while others cut down consumption or gave up entirely. When pubs were closed (due to lockdowns), many people started buying alcohol from shops and drinking at home. Data: 55-74-year olds are heaviest-drinking age group Citing an analysis by the Institute of Alcohol Studies, the BBC report said that people between the ages of 55 and 74 were the heaviest drinkers. In Scotland, meanwhile, there were 1,277 alcohol-linked deaths in 2023- the same as the previous year. Scotland is a country where alcohol-linked death rates have always been higher. England to prioritise public health in 10-year plan for NHS Amid the alarming data (linked to alcohol deaths) in England, the government announced it would prioritise public health in its 10-year plan for the National Health Service (NHS) in the country. Also watch | Gravitas: Natural world's love for alcohol The government said it was unacceptable that alcohol deaths were at record high levels. (With inputs from agencies)

England sees 'catastrophic rise' in deaths caused by alcohol; govt to prioritise public health: Data

Police in the Spanish municipality of Tajueco have arrested two people in connection with a missing persons case, but how they were found has gripped headlines. A report by CNN late Thursday (Dec 19) said a man and a woman were arrested after Google Maps took a photograph of one of them loading a large object in the trunk of a car.

Police in the Spanish municipality of Tajueco have arrested two people in connection with a missing persons case, but how they were found has gripped headlines. A report by CNN late Thursday (Dec 19) said a man and a woman were arrested after Google Maps took a photograph of one of them loading a large object in the trunk of a car. According to the police, a relative in November 2023 filed a complaint about the victim missing after receiving suspicious messages from his phone. Victim said he was getting rid of his phone The police said that although the victim and his relative spoke often, the victim told his relative that he had met a new partner, would be moving to a different part of Spain, and was also getting rid of his phone. Also read | 'Werewolf syndrome' emerges in infants after parents pop in hair-loss drug in Spain The relative's missing persons complaint sparked off an investigation during which the police discovered the Google Maps photograph. The car seen in the picture was used in the crime, they added. Photograph still shows on Google Maps The CNN report said that the photograph, which was taken in the streets of Tajueco, was still showing on Google Maps. So who were the man and the woman arrested in connection with the crime?- The report further said that on November 12, the police arrested the former girlfriend of the missing man, as well as another man who had been in a relationship with the woman. Also watch | Google Maps helps solve murder mystery in Spain Last week, police recovered a badly decomposed torso from a cemetery. The torso has not been identified yet but the police pointed out it could be of the victim's. (With inputs from agencies)

Two arrested in Spain after Google Maps gives clue in missing persons case

Russia on Friday (Dec 20) launched a barrage of missiles on Ukraine's capital Kyiv, killing at least one person, and cutting heating to hundreds of buildings in cold temperatures, as the war between the two countries nears its three-year mark.

Russia on Friday (Dec 20) launched a barrage of missiles on Ukraine's capital Kyiv, killing at least one person, and cutting heating to hundreds of buildings in cold temperatures, as the war between the two countries nears its three-year mark. Russia said that it launched this latest attack against Ukraine as a retaliation for a strike using Western missiles on a chemical plant in Russia earlier this week. 'Moscow used eight missiles in the attack' Kyiv's Military Administration Head Serhiy Popko said that the Russian military used eight missiles, including hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and Iskander/KN-23 ballistic missiles. Also read | 'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko, meanwhile, said that nine people were injured in the attack. A report by the news agency AFP said that heating was cut to a total of 630 residential buildings, along with a dozen medical clinics and schools. 'Russians should burn in hell' When 35-year-old doctor Victoria read the warnings on social media, she ran to a shelter. "Even in the shelter, bricks fell on my head. It's just horrible when people start running in from the street," Victoria told AFP. Also watch | What is Ukraine's endgame? The doctor had come out to look at the charred cars and buildings with blown-out windows at the site of an attack. "Russians should burn in hell," the 35-year-old woman further said. Six diplomatic missions damaged: Ukraine Ukraine's foreign ministry said on Friday that diplomatic missions of Albanian, Argentine, North Macedonian, Palestinian, Portuguese and Montenegrin missions were damaged in the Russian missile attack. Separately, the European Union condemned the strike by saying that Russian President Vladimir Putin's disregard for international law reached new heights. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions

US diplomats are in Syria to meet the country's new Islamist-led rulers, the State Department said Friday, as outside powers seek assurances they will be moderate and inclusive.

The ouster of former president Bashar al-Assad ended decades of abuses and years of civil war, but it has raised concerns about the rights of minorities, as well as women, and the future of the semi-autonomous Kurdish region.

On Thursday, hundreds of demonstrators in Damascus demanded democracy and women's rights, in the first such protest since Assad's departure.

In northeast Syria's Qamishli, thousands demonstrated in support of a US-backed, Kurdish-led force that is under pressure from Turkey and allied rebel fighters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-vows-to-kick-ukraine-out-of-kursk-region-but-admits-cant-say-when-785249">Russian President Putin says he 'will have a conversation' with ousted Syrian President Assad soon</a>

The lightning offensive that forced Assad's departure was led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is rooted in Al-Qaeda's Syria branch but has more recently adopted a moderate tone.

Still, its sudden arrival in the capital has left foreign governments scrambling for a new policy, particularly in some countries where HTS is designated a terrorist group.

US diplomats have not been to Damascus on a formal mission since the early days of the civil war that erupted after Assad cracked down on anti-government protests in 2011.

They will meet representatives from HTS, which Washington deems a terrorist group, as well as activists, minority groups and civil society, the State Department said.

They will speak with Syrians about "their vision for the future of their country and how the United States can help support them," a State Department spokesperson said.

The delegation includes the US point man on hostages, who has been seeking clues on missing Americans including Austin Tice, a journalist who was kidnapped in Syria in August 2012.

The trip comes a week after Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States had been in direct contact with HTS, as he toured Syria's neighbours.

<h2>Kurdish fears</h2>

At talks in the Jordanian resort of Aqaba, Western and Arab powers as well as Turkey jointly called Saturday for an "inclusive, non-sectarian and representative government" that respects the rights of all of Syria's diverse communities.

That call was echoed at talks in Cairo on Thursday by countries including Turkey and Iran, which backed different sides in Syria's civil war.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, whose country backed Assad, called for "the participation of all (Syrian) groups in the future government... as well as respect for different beliefs and religions".

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who supported the opposition to Assad, called for reconciliation and restoration of Syria's "territorial integrity and unity".

He also urged the "establishment of a Syria free of terrorism."

Turkey has been putting pressure on Kurdish-led fighters and said Thursday it would continue military preparations until they "disarm."

The semiautonomous northeastern region of Syria is protected by the Syrian Democratic Forces, a group led by People's Protection Units (YPG).

Turkey accuses the YPG of being a branch of the Kurdistan Workers Party, which both Washington and Ankara consider a terrorist group.

Kurdish leaders in Syria have welcomed Assad's ouster and raised the three-star independence-era rebel flag, but many in the region fear continued attacks by Turkey and allied fighters.

Several thousand people chanted "The Syrian people are one" and "No to war in our region, no to Turkey's attack" at Thursday's demonstration in Qamishli.

<h2>'No to religious rule'</h2>

In Damascus meanwhile, a diverse crowd chanted "No to religious rule" and "We want a democracy, not a religious state."

The protest came days after a spokesman for the interim government said "female representation in ministries or parliament... is premature", citing "biological" and other considerations.

Majida Mudarres, a retired civil servant, said she was furious about the comments.

"Women have a big role in political life," the 50-year-old told AFP.

Also watch | Gravitas: UNSC calls for 'Syrian-led' political process

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-syrias-people-must-be-allowed-to-determine-their-future-unsc-785111/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will be observing any position against women and will not accept it. The time in which we were silent is over."

Assad's departure sparked celebrations at home and abroad.

On Thursday, UN chief Antonio Guterres said his ouster represented a "flame of hope" in a region "consumed by many fires."

But he warned there were obstacles ahead, including continued Israeli air strikes.

These are violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and they must stop," Guterres said ahead of a UN Security Council meeting.

Guterres also condemned Israel for pushing its forces into a UN-run buffer zone on its border with Syria following the fall of Assad.

<h2>Putin denies Syria setback</h2>

Assad fled Syria for long-time backer Russia on December 8, and has only issued a single public statement since then.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday he had not seen Assad yet, adding: "I plan to, I will definitely speak with him."

And he denied that Assad's fall was a setback for Moscow.

"I assure you it is not," he told an annual press conference.

"We came to Syria 10 years ago so that a terrorist enclave would not be created there like in Afghanistan. On the whole, we have achieved our goal," Putin said.

Russia was Assad's key backer in a civil war that killed more than 500,000 people and sparked the exodus of millions of refugees.

Since Assad's departure, rebels have thrown open prisons where tens of thousands of people were arbitrarily detained and tortured.

They have also located mass graves believed to hold some of the estimated 100,000 people who died or were killed in custody since 2011.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

US diplomats are in Syria to meet the country's new Islamist-led rulers, the State Department said Friday, as outside powers seek assurances they will be moderate and inclusive.

US diplomats are in Syria to meet the country's new Islamist-led rulers, the State Department said Friday, as outside powers seek assurances they will be moderate and inclusive. The ouster of former president Bashar al-Assad ended decades of abuses and years of civil war, but it has raised concerns about the rights of minorities, as well as women, and the future of the semi-autonomous Kurdish region. On Thursday, hundreds of demonstrators in Damascus demanded democracy and women's rights, in the first such protest since Assad's departure. In northeast Syria's Qamishli, thousands demonstrated in support of a US-backed, Kurdish-led force that is under pressure from Turkey and allied rebel fighters. Also read | Russian President Putin says he 'will have a conversation' with ousted Syrian President Assad soon The lightning offensive that forced Assad's departure was led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is rooted in Al-Qaeda's Syria branch but has more recently adopted a moderate tone. Still, its sudden arrival in the capital has left foreign governments scrambling for a new policy, particularly in some countries where HTS is designated a terrorist group. US diplomats have not been to Damascus on a formal mission since the early days of the civil war that erupted after Assad cracked down on anti-government protests in 2011. They will meet representatives from HTS, which Washington deems a terrorist group, as well as activists, minority groups and civil society, the State Department said. They will speak with Syrians about "their vision for the future of their country and how the United States can help support them," a State Department spokesperson said. The delegation includes the US point man on hostages, who has been seeking clues on missing Americans including Austin Tice, a journalist who was kidnapped in Syria in August 2012. The trip comes a week after Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States had been in direct contact with HTS, as he toured Syria's neighbours. Kurdish fears At talks in the Jordanian resort of Aqaba, Western and Arab powers as well as Turkey jointly called Saturday for an "inclusive, non-sectarian and representative government" that respects the rights of all of Syria's diverse communities. That call was echoed at talks in Cairo on Thursday by countries including Turkey and Iran, which backed different sides in Syria's civil war. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, whose country backed Assad, called for "the participation of all (Syrian) groups in the future government... as well as respect for different beliefs and religions". Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who supported the opposition to Assad, called for reconciliation and restoration of Syria's "territorial integrity and unity". He also urged the "establishment of a Syria free of terrorism." Turkey has been putting pressure on Kurdish-led fighters and said Thursday it would continue military preparations until they "disarm." The semiautonomous northeastern region of Syria is protected by the Syrian Democratic Forces, a group led by People's Protection Units (YPG). Turkey accuses the YPG of being a branch of the Kurdistan Workers Party, which both Washington and Ankara consider a terrorist group. Kurdish leaders in Syria have welcomed Assad's ouster and raised the three-star independence-era rebel flag, but many in the region fear continued attacks by Turkey and allied fighters. Several thousand people chanted "The Syrian people are one" and "No to war in our region, no to Turkey's attack" at Thursday's demonstration in Qamishli. 'No to religious rule' In Damascus meanwhile, a diverse crowd chanted "No to religious rule" and "We want a democracy, not a religious state." The protest came days after a spokesman for the interim government said "female representation in ministries or parliament... is premature", citing "biological" and other considerations. Majida Mudarres, a retired civil servant, said she was furious about the comments. "Women have a big role in political life," the 50-year-old told AFP. Also watch | Gravitas: UNSC calls for 'Syrian-led' political process "We will be observing any position against women and will not accept it. The time in which we were silent is over." Assad's departure sparked celebrations at home and abroad. On Thursday, UN chief Antonio Guterres said his ouster represented a "flame of hope" in a region "consumed by many fires." But he warned there were obstacles ahead, including continued Israeli air strikes. These are violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and they must stop," Guterres said ahead of a UN Security Council meeting. Guterres also condemned Israel for pushing its forces into a UN-run buffer zone on its border with Syria following the fall of Assad. Putin denies Syria setback Assad fled Syria for long-time backer Russia on December 8, and has only issued a single public statement since then. Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday he had not seen Assad yet, adding: "I plan to, I will definitely speak with him." And he denied that Assad's fall was a setback for Moscow. "I assure you it is not," he told an annual press conference. "We came to Syria 10 years ago so that a terrorist enclave would not be created there like in Afghanistan. On the whole, we have achieved our goal," Putin said. Russia was Assad's key backer in a civil war that killed more than 500,000 people and sparked the exodus of millions of refugees. Since Assad's departure, rebels have thrown open prisons where tens of thousands of people were arbitrarily detained and tortured. They have also located mass graves believed to hold some of the estimated 100,000 people who died or were killed in custody since 2011. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US diplomats arrive in Syria to meet leaders of new govt

Paris
<meta content="uuidF7Tzx15Yg0c6" name="uuid"/>
Frenchwoman Gisele Pelicot, who was the victim of the mass drugging-and-rape case that was orchestrated by her former husband Dominique Pelicot, gave her first reaction on Thursday (Dec 19) after 51 men, including Dominique, were found guilty in the trial.
“I want you to know that we share the same fight,” the 72-year-old Gisele told reporters in her first words after the court in the southern French city of Avignon handed down prison sentences ranging from three to 20 years in the shocking case that stunned France and spurred a national reckoning about the blight of rape culture.
Also watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-trial-who-are-the-51-men-accused-of-raping-gisele-pelicot-785329">France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisele Pelicot?</a>
Gisele expressed gratitude towards the people who supported her. “Your messages moved me deeply, and they gave me the strength to come back, every day, and survive through these long daily hearings,” she added.
<h2>The case and the court's verdict</h2>
On Thursday, Dominique Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison over drugging Gisele and allowing a mass rape (of the woman) by strangers recruited online. The crime went on for almost a decade.
Apart from Pelicot, 50 other men were found guilty. 
The dozens of other defendants were handed terms of up to 15 years, which women's rights groups and the three Pelicot children, according to a source, condemned as too lenient, a report by the news agency AFP said.
They received jail terms of between three and 15 years, but this was in all cases less than what prosecutors had demanded and, in some cases, even half. Two of the defendants had their jail terms suspended. 
Also watch | WION Dispatch- France mass rape trial: All defendants convicted
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/19/1912_Manav_FRANCE_6PM-1734615914-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1912_Manav_FRANCE_6PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=269&tags=France,rape trial,World News,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Under the terms of the sentencing, six accused were allowed to walk free from the court. Only the sentence given to Dominique Pelicot was fully in line with what the prosecutors demanded. 
A family member told AFP that the three Pelicot children "are disappointed by these low sentences." There was "no question" of any of the children wanting to speak to their father after the conviction, the family member said.
<h2>Gisele becomes a feminist hero at home</h2>
The trial garnered immense interest in the wake of Giesele's decision to allow the trial to be open to the public from the outset and waive her right to anonymity.
She has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial, and standing up to her aggressors in court.
(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday, Dominique Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison over drugging his former wife Gisele and allowing her mass rape by strangers recruited online. The crime went on for almost a decade.



Paris Frenchwoman Gisele Pelicot, who was the victim of the mass drugging-and-rape case that was orchestrated by her former husband Dominique Pelicot, gave her first reaction on Thursday (Dec 19) after 51 men, including Dominique, were found guilty in the trial. “I want you to know that we share the same fight,” the 72-year-old Gisele told reporters in her first words after the court in the southern French city of Avignon handed down prison sentences ranging from three to 20 years in the shocking case that stunned France and spurred a national reckoning about the blight of rape culture. Also watch | France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisele Pelicot? Gisele expressed gratitude towards the people who supported her. “Your messages moved me deeply, and they gave me the strength to come back, every day, and survive through these long daily hearings,” she added. The case and the court's verdict On Thursday, Dominique Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison over drugging Gisele and allowing a mass rape (of the woman) by strangers recruited online. The crime went on for almost a decade. Apart from Pelicot, 50 other men were found guilty. The dozens of other defendants were handed terms of up to 15 years, which women's rights groups and the three Pelicot children, according to a source, condemned as too lenient, a report by the news agency AFP said. They received jail terms of between three and 15 years, but this was in all cases less than what prosecutors had demanded and, in some cases, even half. Two of the defendants had their jail terms suspended. Also watch | WION Dispatch- France mass rape trial: All defendants convicted Under the terms of the sentencing, six accused were allowed to walk free from the court. Only the sentence given to Dominique Pelicot was fully in line with what the prosecutors demanded. A family member told AFP that the three Pelicot children "are disappointed by these low sentences." There was "no question" of any of the children wanting to speak to their father after the conviction, the family member said. Gisele becomes a feminist hero at home The trial garnered immense interest in the wake of Giesele's decision to allow the trial to be open to the public from the outset and waive her right to anonymity. She has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial, and standing up to her aggressors in court. (With inputs from agencies)

A very difficult ordeal: Gisele Pelicot's first words after verdict in France mass rape trial

New Delhi
<meta content="uuidF7Tzx15Yg0c6" name="uuid"/>
With the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament coming to an end soon, lawmakers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc held protests, leading to a scuffle in which two BJP MPs were injured and had to be rushed to the hospital.
The injured BJP MPs were identified as Pratap Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput. A report by the news agency ANI said that Sarangi and Rajput were admitted to New Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital.
Hospital officials said that both the MPs suffered head injuries and were taken to the intensive care unit (ICU).
This incident triggered a war of words between the BJP and the Congress, with the former alleging that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pushed Sarangi during the protest. The BJP <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-scuffle-bjp-files-attempt-to-murder-case-on-congress-rahul-gandhi-785288">filed an attempt to murder complaint against</a> Gandhi.
The Congress, meanwhile, filed a countercomplaint at the Parliament Street police station. 
Both parties addressed press conferences to explain their position:
<h2>What were the protests about?</h2>
On Thursday morning, the NDA was protesting in the Parliament's premises against the Congress party for "insulting" Dalit icon Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protest-slogans-and-scuffle-how-amit-shahs-remark-on-ambedkar-took-a-vicious-turn-785274">Protest, slogans and scuffle: How row over Amit Shah's remark on Ambedkar took a vicious turn</a>
INDIA Bloc MPs led by Rahul Gandhi also held a protest on the premises and demanded the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his remarks on Babasaheb Ambedkar.
<h2>What did the BJP say?</h2>
Speaking to reporters, Union Minister and senior BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that Rahul Gandhi behaved like a goon. 
"He (Gandhi) started pushing there. Our elderly MP Pratap Sarangi fell, and he was seriously injured on the head. He was admitted to the ICU, and he is still under treatment... He was unconscious. His MRI scan is being done. Will physical power be used in the Parliament instead of logic?," Union Minister Chouhan said.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Union Minister Shivraj Chouhan says, "...Our MPs have complained about it. And BJP will take all the required legal action..." <a href="https://t.co/h8RBryEeHe">pic.twitter.com/h8RBryEeHe</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1869712546904821984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi just did a press conference. We thought they would apologise for what they did today. But they did not. I did not understand why they did a press conference. Their press conference displayed their arrogance...," Chouhan added.
The Union minister pointed out that the BJP would take all the required legal action against Gandhi.
<h2>What did the Congress say?</h2>
Congress' Rahul Gandhi, who is also the leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament), addressed a press conference with Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Kharge alleged that BJP lawmakers "stopped us at the door and did this to show their muscle power. They forcefully attacked us."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge says, "...They (BJP MPs) stopped us at the door and did this to show their muscle power. They forcefully attacked us. I am not in a position to push anyone, but they pushed me. Now they are accusing us that we pushed them...So… <a href="https://t.co/01rRE3GaGt">pic.twitter.com/01rRE3GaGt</a>
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"I am not in a position to push anyone, but they pushed me. Now they are accusing us that we pushed them...So the kind of environment that the BJP people have created, we will never tolerate it, there will be a nationwide protest against this," he added.
Gandhi, meanwhile, said, "The Union Home Minister has shown his mindset in front of everyone. We have demanded an apology from him and his resignation, but he (Amit Shah) has refused to do so. We (opposition MPs) were going to the Parliament from the Ambedkar statue. BJP MPs, however, were standing in front of us at the stairs of the Parliament complex and didn't allow to enter the House."

The scuffle in Parliament broke out on Thursday (Dec 19) amid protests by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc. Two BJP MPs were injured in the scuffle and were rushed to hospital. 



New Delhi With the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament coming to an end soon, lawmakers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc held protests, leading to a scuffle in which two BJP MPs were injured and had to be rushed to the hospital. The injured BJP MPs were identified as Pratap Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput. A report by the news agency ANI said that Sarangi and Rajput were admitted to New Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Hospital officials said that both the MPs suffered head injuries and were taken to the intensive care unit (ICU). This incident triggered a war of words between the BJP and the Congress, with the former alleging that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pushed Sarangi during the protest. The BJP filed an attempt to murder complaint against Gandhi. The Congress, meanwhile, filed a countercomplaint at the Parliament Street police station. Both parties addressed press conferences to explain their position: What were the protests about? On Thursday morning, the NDA was protesting in the Parliament's premises against the Congress party for "insulting" Dalit icon Babasaheb Ambedkar. Also read | Protest, slogans and scuffle: How row over Amit Shah's remark on Ambedkar took a vicious turn INDIA Bloc MPs led by Rahul Gandhi also held a protest on the premises and demanded the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his remarks on Babasaheb Ambedkar. What did the BJP say? Speaking to reporters, Union Minister and senior BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that Rahul Gandhi behaved like a goon. "He (Gandhi) started pushing there. Our elderly MP Pratap Sarangi fell, and he was seriously injured on the head. He was admitted to the ICU, and he is still under treatment... He was unconscious. His MRI scan is being done. Will physical power be used in the Parliament instead of logic?," Union Minister Chouhan said. #WATCH | Delhi: Union Minister Shivraj Chouhan says, "...Our MPs have complained about it. And BJP will take all the required legal action..." pic.twitter.com/h8RBryEeHe — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2024 × "Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi just did a press conference. We thought they would apologise for what they did today. But they did not. I did not understand why they did a press conference. Their press conference displayed their arrogance...," Chouhan added. The Union minister pointed out that the BJP would take all the required legal action against Gandhi. What did the Congress say? Congress' Rahul Gandhi, who is also the leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament), addressed a press conference with Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge. Kharge alleged that BJP lawmakers "stopped us at the door and did this to show their muscle power. They forcefully attacked us." #WATCH | Delhi: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge says, "...They (BJP MPs) stopped us at the door and did this to show their muscle power. They forcefully attacked us. I am not in a position to push anyone, but they pushed me. Now they are accusing us that we pushed them...So… pic.twitter.com/01rRE3GaGt — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2024 × "I am not in a position to push anyone, but they pushed me. Now they are accusing us that we pushed them...So the kind of environment that the BJP people have created, we will never tolerate it, there will be a nationwide protest against this," he added. Gandhi, meanwhile, said, "The Union Home Minister has shown his mindset in front of everyone. We have demanded an apology from him and his resignation, but he (Amit Shah) has refused to do so. We (opposition MPs) were going to the Parliament from the Ambedkar statue. BJP MPs, however, were standing in front of us at the stairs of the Parliament complex and didn't allow to enter the House."

Indian Parliament scuffle becomes a war of words between BJP and Congress. Who said what?

New Delhi
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Rajya Sabha's Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Thursday (Dec 19) dismissed the impeachment notice given by Indian opposition lawmakers seeking the removal of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the news agency PTI reported citing sources.
Harivansh ruled the impeachment notice as an act of impropriety, being severely flawed and drawn in haste to mar Dhankhar's reputation. Apart from being the Vice President, Dhankar is also the ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
PTI reported that in his ruling, Harivansh said that the impeachment notice was part of a design to denigrate the nation's constitutional institutions and malign the incumbent vice president.
<h2>'Notice is a misadventure...'</h2>
Harivansh further ruled that the gravity of this "personally targeted" notice is bereft of facts and aimed at securing publicity.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/he-targets-opposition-praises-government-kharge-accuses-dhankhar-of-bias-in-no-confidence-motion-783273">'He targets opposition, praises government': Kharge accuses Dhankhar of bias in no-confidence motion</a>
He also held that the notice was a "misadventure" in "deliberate trivialising and demeaning" the high constitutional office of the Vice President of the largest democracy.
<h2>Why was the impeachment notice filed?</h2>
Earlier this month, at least 60 opposition lawmakers signed the notice for the removal of Dhankhar from his post, alleging that they did not have trust in him and that he was "biased."
A few days back, senior Congress MP Jairam Ramesh accused Dhankhar of undermining the opposition and failing to uphold the dignity of the Rajya Sabha.
Speaking to the news agency ANI, Ramesh said, "Our no-confidence motion is against the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He doesn't let the opposition speak and insults Dalits. The Chairman is supposed to run the House, not provide a running commentary. He can't demand respect; he must command respect. This is a one-sided democracy."
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, meanwhile, highlighted inequalities in the time allotted for opposition and ruling party leaders to speak.
"The Chairman is an umpire and should not take sides. When the Leader of the House, JP Nadda, speaks, he gets 5-10 minutes. On the other hand, we keep raising our hands for a chance to speak, and our mics are turned off," Kharge told ANI last week.
(With inputs from agencies)

Earlier this month, at least 60 opposition lawmakers signed the notice for the removal of Dhankhar from his post of the Rajya Sabha chairman, alleging that they did not have trust in him and that he was "biased."



New Delhi Rajya Sabha's Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Thursday (Dec 19) dismissed the impeachment notice given by Indian opposition lawmakers seeking the removal of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the news agency PTI reported citing sources. Harivansh ruled the impeachment notice as an act of impropriety, being severely flawed and drawn in haste to mar Dhankhar's reputation. Apart from being the Vice President, Dhankar is also the ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha. PTI reported that in his ruling, Harivansh said that the impeachment notice was part of a design to denigrate the nation's constitutional institutions and malign the incumbent vice president. 'Notice is a misadventure...' Harivansh further ruled that the gravity of this "personally targeted" notice is bereft of facts and aimed at securing publicity. Also read | 'He targets opposition, praises government': Kharge accuses Dhankhar of bias in no-confidence motion He also held that the notice was a "misadventure" in "deliberate trivialising and demeaning" the high constitutional office of the Vice President of the largest democracy. Why was the impeachment notice filed? Earlier this month, at least 60 opposition lawmakers signed the notice for the removal of Dhankhar from his post, alleging that they did not have trust in him and that he was "biased." A few days back, senior Congress MP Jairam Ramesh accused Dhankhar of undermining the opposition and failing to uphold the dignity of the Rajya Sabha. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Ramesh said, "Our no-confidence motion is against the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He doesn't let the opposition speak and insults Dalits. The Chairman is supposed to run the House, not provide a running commentary. He can't demand respect; he must command respect. This is a one-sided democracy." Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, meanwhile, highlighted inequalities in the time allotted for opposition and ruling party leaders to speak. "The Chairman is an umpire and should not take sides. When the Leader of the House, JP Nadda, speaks, he gets 5-10 minutes. On the other hand, we keep raising our hands for a chance to speak, and our mics are turned off," Kharge told ANI last week. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian oppn's impeachment notice against Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar dismissed

Australia
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Most of us have heard of the meme- "What are those?"- where a man asks a police officer about his work boots in a startled manner. This meme is years old but remains relevant. 
A 28-year-old corporate worker in Australia was roasted for wearing an unusual pair of shoes to her office. The woman, identified as Chloe Andrews, took to social media to share that she was absolutely roasted for wearing Tabi shoes to the office.
<h2>The reactions </h2>
Andrews, who has more than 15,000 followers on TikTok, posted a video of her going to the office wearing the Tabi shoes and filming the reactions of her co-workers.
Most of the people in her office just hated her footwear. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-york-man-discovers-complete-mastodon-jaw-in-his-backyard-785199">New York man discovers complete mastodon jaw in his backyard</a>
A report by news.com.au said that the most brutal response to Andrews' footwear was from a co-worker who said that the shoes made the 28-year-old look like a "farm animal."
One male co-worker, while rubbing his neck, asked, “What are those?” and, when Ms Andrews gave him some context about her shoes, he simply replied, “I don’t get it.”
The report said that her co-workers were Googling cow hoofs to compare them to her shoes. 
The most supportive response was from two Gen Z employees who weren’t negative about her shoe choice and instead hyped her up - one even clapped and said, “Yass!”
<h2>What is Tabi?</h2>
Tabi- also known as split-toed shoes- originated in 15th century Japan where the elite used to wear split-toe socks thought to aid in physical balance with their thonged sandals and shoes.
As cotton routes opened to China later and rubber soles were added, the socks became jika-tabi, shoes worn by blue-collar workers in Japan, a report by Harpers Bazaar said.
The Tabi shoes were launched in the late 1980s. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Tabi- also known as split-toed shoes- originated in 15th century Japan where the elite used to wear split-toe socks thought to aid in physical balance with their thonged sandals and shoes.



Australia Most of us have heard of the meme- "What are those?"- where a man asks a police officer about his work boots in a startled manner. This meme is years old but remains relevant. A 28-year-old corporate worker in Australia was roasted for wearing an unusual pair of shoes to her office. The woman, identified as Chloe Andrews, took to social media to share that she was absolutely roasted for wearing Tabi shoes to the office. The reactions Andrews, who has more than 15,000 followers on TikTok, posted a video of her going to the office wearing the Tabi shoes and filming the reactions of her co-workers. Most of the people in her office just hated her footwear. Also read | New York man discovers complete mastodon jaw in his backyard A report by news.com.au said that the most brutal response to Andrews' footwear was from a co-worker who said that the shoes made the 28-year-old look like a "farm animal." One male co-worker, while rubbing his neck, asked, “What are those?” and, when Ms Andrews gave him some context about her shoes, he simply replied, “I don’t get it.” The report said that her co-workers were Googling cow hoofs to compare them to her shoes. The most supportive response was from two Gen Z employees who weren’t negative about her shoe choice and instead hyped her up - one even clapped and said, “Yass!” What is Tabi? Tabi- also known as split-toed shoes- originated in 15th century Japan where the elite used to wear split-toe socks thought to aid in physical balance with their thonged sandals and shoes. As cotton routes opened to China later and rubber soles were added, the socks became jika-tabi, shoes worn by blue-collar workers in Japan, a report by Harpers Bazaar said. The Tabi shoes were launched in the late 1980s. (With inputs from agencies)

What are those?: Australian corporate worker roasted for wearing unusual shoes to office

A court in the United Kingdom (UK) ruled on Wednesday (Dec 18) that police could seize more than $2.5 million (over 2 million pounds) to cover years of unpaid taxes from professional kickboxer turned influencers Andrew Tate and Tristan Tate.

A court in the United Kingdom (UK) ruled on Wednesday (Dec 18) that police could seize more than $2.5 million (over 2 million pounds) to cover years of unpaid taxes from professional kickboxer turned influencers Andrew Tate and Tristan Tate. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that the Devon and Cornwall Police force went to Westminster's Magistrates' Court to claim the money, held in frozen bank accounts, from the Tate brothers and a woman only identified as J. At the court, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled that financial transactions by Andrew and Tristan were a "straightforward cheat" of the tax authorities. One of these financial transactions included a transfer of almost $12 million into an account in the name of J. 'Tate brothers are serial tax evaders' In the court, a lawyer for the Devon and Cornwall Police force said that the Tate brothers were serial tax evaders who failed to pay any tax on $26.68 million in revenue from their online businesses which include the popular Hustlers' University, War Room, and OnlyFans, between 2014 and 2022. Also read | Romanian court eases travel restrictions on Andrew Tate The Associated Press report said that during a court hearing in July, lawyer Sarah Clarke quoted from a video posted online by Andrew where he said, "When I lived in England I refused to pay tax." Clarke said that J was not involved with the business of the Tate brothers. 'They did nothing illegal' On Wednesday, a lawyer for the Tate brothers said that the bank transfers were "entirely orthodox" for people who run online businesses. The lawyer said his clients spent money on a number of “exotic motor cars,” but did nothing illegal. The proceedings in this case are civil. Also watch | Andrew Tate's cars seized Chief Magistrate Goldspring said in his ruling that the Tate brothers had been liable to register with the tax authorities and declare and pay tax on revenue in Britain and/or Romania, where they have lived since 2017. Goldspring found that Andrew and Tristan's "entire financial arrangements are consistent with concerted tax evasion and money laundering." Andrew responds to court ruling Andrew Tate has reacted to the court ruling. In a post on X, Tate said, "First they said I was a human trafficker, but couldn't find a single girl to testify. So instead they stole all the money they could find from banks." When they fail to control your influence, they audit your influence. When they fail to match your power, they nitpick your paperwork. They want the world to believe that a man of mastery can be reduced to a headline in a lying newspaper. The Matrix does not tolerate defiance,… https://t.co/b4XQnpq2AL — Andrew Tate (@Cobratate) December 18, 2024 × "If you speak against power they will do anything to destroy you," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK court rules cops can seize over $2.5 million from Andrew Tate and brother Tristan to cover unpaid taxes

Eleven people died in a fire at a cafe in&nbsp;Hanoi&nbsp;and police have arrested a man suspected of starting the blaze, Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security said on Thursday (December 19).

Police said in a statement that the man had confessed to using gasoline to light a fire on the ground floor of the three-storey cafe on Wednesday (December 18) after an argument with staff.

Footage from the online newspaper VnExpress showed firemen working to put out the fire and the bodies of victims being removed.

“When I was opening my gate, I noticed a column of smoke from afar. I was so frightened that I had to urge my grandchild to go downstairs," one witness told VnExpress.

"The flame was so fierce. We saw the fire engulfing, but there was nothing else we could do.”

The state-run Tien Phong newspaper reported the suspect is aged in his early 50s. The police said the fire was first reported to them just after 11 pm&nbsp;(1600 GMT) on Wednesday.

Seven people were rescued from the fire, with two of them hospitalised, the police statement said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Eleven people died in a fire at a cafe in Hanoi and police have arrested a man suspected of starting the blaze, Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security said on Thursday (December 19).

Eleven people died in a fire at a cafe in Hanoi and police have arrested a man suspected of starting the blaze, Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security said on Thursday (December 19). Police said in a statement that the man had confessed to using gasoline to light a fire on the ground floor of the three-storey cafe on Wednesday (December 18) after an argument with staff. Footage from the online newspaper VnExpress showed firemen working to put out the fire and the bodies of victims being removed. “When I was opening my gate, I noticed a column of smoke from afar. I was so frightened that I had to urge my grandchild to go downstairs," one witness told VnExpress. "The flame was so fierce. We saw the fire engulfing, but there was nothing else we could do.” The state-run Tien Phong newspaper reported the suspect is aged in his early 50s. The police said the fire was first reported to them just after 11 pm (1600 GMT) on Wednesday. Seven people were rescued from the fire, with two of them hospitalised, the police statement said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

11 dead in fire at cafe in Vietnam's Hanoi, cops arrest suspect

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