The Chinese capital of Beijing reported a record 5,006 Covid cases on Wednesday, as the country struggles to get hold of the worst-ever outbreak of viral contagion amid growing public anger against President Xi Jinping's zero Covid regime. Across China, new Covid infections numbered 34,942 for Wednesday, coming slightly off a peak of 38,808 registered over the weekend.

The officials in Beijing have refrained from declaring mass testing as many districts remain at standstill due to creeping curbs.

Reports said that with the surging numbers of Covid-infected people, Beijing is seeing its makeshift hospitals for mild Covid patients and those for treating more severe ones near capacity, which has also allowed more people to isolate at home by default.&nbsp;

WATCH -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-lockdown-country-reports-record-high-infections-for-thirs-consecutive-day-537694">China Covid Lockdown: Country reports record high infections for third&nbsp;consecutive day</a>

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People in Beijing remain fearful not just of the virus but of getting identified as a close contact and sent to government isolation facilities where conditions are poor, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

While case numbers may be naturally leveling off, the lowered count may also stem from recent moves to exempt those who stay at home for long periods of time, like children and the elderly, from frequent testing. &nbsp;

Across China, cities facing outbreaks have moved away from broad rules. Guangzhou on Wednesday ended lockdown measures in all but one of its 11 districts. Restrictions remained in many high-risk areas, leaving in place a complex web of rules for locals to navigate. Guangdong province reported 7,252 cases for Wednesday, while western metropolis Chongqing recorded 6,584.

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The Chinese capital of Beijing reported a record 5,006 Covid cases on Wednesday, as the country struggles to get hold of the worst-ever outbreak of viral contagion amid growing public anger against President Xi Jinping's zero Covid regime.

The Chinese capital of Beijing reported a record 5,006 Covid cases on Wednesday, as the country struggles to get hold of the worst-ever outbreak of viral contagion amid growing public anger against President Xi Jinping's zero Covid regime. Across China, new Covid infections numbered 34,942 for Wednesday, coming slightly off a peak of 38,808 registered over the weekend. The officials in Beijing have refrained from declaring mass testing as many districts remain at standstill due to creeping curbs. Reports said that with the surging numbers of Covid-infected people, Beijing is seeing its makeshift hospitals for mild Covid patients and those for treating more severe ones near capacity, which has also allowed more people to isolate at home by default. WATCH - China Covid Lockdown: Country reports record high infections for third consecutive day × People in Beijing remain fearful not just of the virus but of getting identified as a close contact and sent to government isolation facilities where conditions are poor, Bloomberg reported. While case numbers may be naturally leveling off, the lowered count may also stem from recent moves to exempt those who stay at home for long periods of time, like children and the elderly, from frequent testing. Across China, cities facing outbreaks have moved away from broad rules. Guangzhou on Wednesday ended lockdown measures in all but one of its 11 districts. Restrictions remained in many high-risk areas, leaving in place a complex web of rules for locals to navigate. Guangdong province reported 7,252 cases for Wednesday, while western metropolis Chongqing recorded 6,584. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Beijing reports record 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak, public anger

Buckingham Palace announced on Wednesday that a member of its household had resigned after row over making "unacceptable and regrettable comments" during a reception thrown by the Queen Consort Camilla. The reception was thrown by Queen Consort to purportedly highlight the cause of domestic abuse and violence against women.

The royal aide in question was later identified as the late queen’s lady-in-waiting Susan Hussey.&nbsp;

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As we mark the UN’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/16Days?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#16Days</a> for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, The Queen Consort welcomed guests - including survivors of abuse, charity representatives, politicians, and ambassadors for the cause - to Buckingham Palace in recognition of this important issue. <a href="https://t.co/3qTXncxk7C">pic.twitter.com/3qTXncxk7C</a>
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1597656466013687813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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What is Buckingham Palace racism row all about?

Ngozi Fulani, the head of a domestic abuse charity, was questioned about where in Africa she was from during Camilla, the Queen Consort's reception. Fulani is the founder of the London-based charity Sistah Space, which supports women of African and Caribbean heritage across the United Kingdom who have faced domestic and sexual abuse.

Fulani shared on Twitter the ordeal that she went through at Buckingham Palace. A royal aide reportedly asked her where she was from.&nbsp;

Faluni in her recounting of the incident said: "We are based in Hackney," and the aide replied: "No, what part of Africa are you from?"

She said: "I don't know, they didn't leave any records", and the royal aide asked further: "Well you must know where you're from, I spent time in France. Where are you from?"

"Here, UK."

"No, but what nationality are you?"

"I am born here and am British."

"No, but where do you really come from, where do your people come from?"

Fulani said on Twitter: "It was such a shock to me and the other two women that we were stunned (into a) temporary silence."

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Mixed feelings about yesterday's visit to Buckingham Palace. 10 mins after arriving, a member of staff, Lady SH, approached me, moved my hair to see my name badge. The conversation below took place. The rest of the event is a blur. 
Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/ManduReid?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManduReid</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/SuzanneEJacob?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SuzanneEJacob</a> for support🙏🏾 <a href="https://t.co/OUbQKlabyq">pic.twitter.com/OUbQKlabyq</a>
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In its statement, Buckingham Palace said: "We take this incident extremely seriously and have investigated immediately to establish the full details."

"In this instance, unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments have been made. We have reached out to Ngozi Fulani on this matter, and are inviting her to discuss all elements of her experience in person if she wishes," it added.&nbsp;

About racial discourse in Royal Family

In an interview with Oprah Winfrey last year, actress Meghan Markle had alleged that a senior royal family member had concerns about the potential skin colour of her and Prince Harry's first child. In November 2021, a book by American journalist Christopher Andersen claimed that the senior royal family member mentioned by Meghan was Prince Charles (now King) himself.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-harry-meghan-interview-triggers-an-international-crisis-for-the-royals-369229">Gravitas: Harry &amp; Meghan interview triggers an international crisis for the Royals</a>

"I mean, what do you suppose their children's complexion might be?," Charles is cited to have asked Camilla.&nbsp;

The revelation was consequently denied by Buckingham Palace.&nbsp;

Racism in United Kingdom

Racial discrimination continues to be a prevailing issue in the British polity. A research by The Guardian found last year that schools across the UK recorded more than 60,000 racist incidents between 2016-2021. According to a UK Ministry of Justice report published in January 2020, black teenagers and young adults were over four times more likely than their white counterparts to be arrested.&nbsp;

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Buckingham Palace announced on Wednesday that a member of its household had resigned after row over making "unacceptable and regrettable comments" during a reception thrown by the Queen Consort Camilla.

Buckingham Palace announced on Wednesday that a member of its household had resigned after row over making "unacceptable and regrettable comments" during a reception thrown by the Queen Consort Camilla. The reception was thrown by Queen Consort to purportedly highlight the cause of domestic abuse and violence against women. The royal aide in question was later identified as the late queen’s lady-in-waiting Susan Hussey. As we mark the UN’s #16Days for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, The Queen Consort welcomed guests - including survivors of abuse, charity representatives, politicians, and ambassadors for the cause - to Buckingham Palace in recognition of this important issue. pic.twitter.com/3qTXncxk7C — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) November 29, 2022 × What is Buckingham Palace racism row all about? Ngozi Fulani, the head of a domestic abuse charity, was questioned about where in Africa she was from during Camilla, the Queen Consort's reception. Fulani is the founder of the London-based charity Sistah Space, which supports women of African and Caribbean heritage across the United Kingdom who have faced domestic and sexual abuse. Fulani shared on Twitter the ordeal that she went through at Buckingham Palace. A royal aide reportedly asked her where she was from. Faluni in her recounting of the incident said: "We are based in Hackney," and the aide replied: "No, what part of Africa are you from?" She said: "I don't know, they didn't leave any records", and the royal aide asked further: "Well you must know where you're from, I spent time in France. Where are you from?" "Here, UK." "No, but what nationality are you?" "I am born here and am British." "No, but where do you really come from, where do your people come from?" Fulani said on Twitter: "It was such a shock to me and the other two women that we were stunned (into a) temporary silence." Mixed feelings about yesterday's visit to Buckingham Palace. 10 mins after arriving, a member of staff, Lady SH, approached me, moved my hair to see my name badge. The conversation below took place. The rest of the event is a blur. Thanks @ManduReid & @SuzanneEJacob for support🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/OUbQKlabyq — Sistah Space (@Sistah_Space) November 30, 2022 × In its statement, Buckingham Palace said: "We take this incident extremely seriously and have investigated immediately to establish the full details." "In this instance, unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments have been made. We have reached out to Ngozi Fulani on this matter, and are inviting her to discuss all elements of her experience in person if she wishes," it added. About racial discourse in Royal Family In an interview with Oprah Winfrey last year, actress Meghan Markle had alleged that a senior royal family member had concerns about the potential skin colour of her and Prince Harry's first child. In November 2021, a book by American journalist Christopher Andersen claimed that the senior royal family member mentioned by Meghan was Prince Charles (now King) himself. WATCH | Gravitas: Harry & Meghan interview triggers an international crisis for the Royals "I mean, what do you suppose their children's complexion might be?," Charles is cited to have asked Camilla. The revelation was consequently denied by Buckingham Palace. Racism in United Kingdom Racial discrimination continues to be a prevailing issue in the British polity. A research by The Guardian found last year that schools across the UK recorded more than 60,000 racist incidents between 2016-2021. According to a UK Ministry of Justice report published in January 2020, black teenagers and young adults were over four times more likely than their white counterparts to be arrested. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Buckingham Palace racism row: Royal aide resigns after massive furore

Israel Defense Forces announced on Wednesday the formation of a new co-ed light infantry battalion, which will be stationed along the West Bank security barrier. The barrier, also known as the 'seam line', aims to prevent Palestinians from illegally entering Israel.&nbsp;

The development comes&nbsp;a week after a terrorist bombing in Jerusalem claimed the lives of two Israeli citizens and months-long mounting tensions in the perilous West Bank.&nbsp;

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-explosions-rock-jerusalem-at-least-13-injured-casualties-feared-536659">16-year-old boy killed, 22 injured in two explosions near bus stops in Jerusalem</a>

The IDF said the decision was made following a months-long operation in the West Bank, during which numerous reservist units were dispatched to the security barrier to prevent Palestinians from entering Israel. The 49th battalion, named Panther, will be part of the Border Defense Corps, which uses a desert yellow-brown camouflage pattern beret, The Times of Israel reported.

WATCH -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-full-context-israel-palestine-row-is-a-100-year-old-issue-496974">The Full Context: Israel-Palestine row is a 100-year old issue</a>

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“We have invested heavily in the planning of this battalion to ensure that the personnel recruited to it will have a significant military service that contributes to the operational goals of the IDF,” Brigadier-General Amit Yamin, the commanding officer of the Border Defense Corps, said while addressing a press conference.&nbsp;

The IDF said the unit would begin work sometime next year, with the first soldiers being drafted on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Tensions mount in West Bank

On November 29, a Palestinian reportedly rammed his car into an Israeli soldier, seriously injuring her, following which he was shot dead by Israeli police in stationed in the West Bank. He was the fourth Palestinian killed in a series of violent incidents throughout the day.

Earlier this week, the United Nations envoy to the Middle East warned that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was “reaching a boiling point,” due to surge in violence in the West Bank.

“High levels of violence in the occupied West Bank and Israel in recent months, including attacks against Israeli and Palestinian civilians, increased use of arms, and settler-related violence, have caused grave human suffering,” UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland said on Monday.

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Israel Defense Forces announced on Wednesday the formation of a new co-ed light infantry battalion, which will be stationed along the West Bank security barrier.

Israel Defense Forces announced on Wednesday the formation of a new co-ed light infantry battalion, which will be stationed along the West Bank security barrier. The barrier, also known as the 'seam line', aims to prevent Palestinians from illegally entering Israel. The development comes a week after a terrorist bombing in Jerusalem claimed the lives of two Israeli citizens and months-long mounting tensions in the perilous West Bank. ALSO READ - 16-year-old boy killed, 22 injured in two explosions near bus stops in Jerusalem The IDF said the decision was made following a months-long operation in the West Bank, during which numerous reservist units were dispatched to the security barrier to prevent Palestinians from entering Israel. The 49th battalion, named Panther, will be part of the Border Defense Corps, which uses a desert yellow-brown camouflage pattern beret, The Times of Israel reported. WATCH - The Full Context: Israel-Palestine row is a 100-year old issue × “We have invested heavily in the planning of this battalion to ensure that the personnel recruited to it will have a significant military service that contributes to the operational goals of the IDF,” Brigadier-General Amit Yamin, the commanding officer of the Border Defense Corps, said while addressing a press conference. The IDF said the unit would begin work sometime next year, with the first soldiers being drafted on Wednesday. Tensions mount in West Bank On November 29, a Palestinian reportedly rammed his car into an Israeli soldier, seriously injuring her, following which he was shot dead by Israeli police in stationed in the West Bank. He was the fourth Palestinian killed in a series of violent incidents throughout the day. Earlier this week, the United Nations envoy to the Middle East warned that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was “reaching a boiling point,” due to surge in violence in the West Bank. “High levels of violence in the occupied West Bank and Israel in recent months, including attacks against Israeli and Palestinian civilians, increased use of arms, and settler-related violence, have caused grave human suffering,” UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland said on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Palestine tensions: Israel drafts Panther battalion to secure West Bank seam line

Stockholm-headquartered fashion label Hennes &amp; Mauritz (H&amp;M) announced 1,500 job cuts citing lesser consumer demand due to soaring inflation in the countries that constitute its core market base. After Paris-based Louis Vuitton, H&amp;M is the world's second richest fashion label and sells its "disposable fashion" in 53 countries worldwide.&nbsp;

The development comes amid rising cost of living crisis in European countries stoked in-part by escalation of conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The crisis has pushed companies across Europe and the United States to take drastic steps to weather the period of uncertainties.

H&amp;M employs about 155,000 people worldwide. The current cuts are aimed at saving 2 billion Swedish crowns per year ($189.5 million).

The company said the savings would begin from the second half of next year, while it will take a restructuring charge of 800 million Swedish crowns ($75.80 million) in the fourth quarter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/from-pandemic-boom-to-lay-off-season-why-big-tech-companies-firing-thousands-of-employees-534471">From pandemic boom to layoff season: Why big tech firms are firing thousands of employees</a>

"We are in a big transition and the whole retail industry is facing a lot of challenges," H&amp;M's investor relations head Nils Vinge told Reuters, pointing to headwinds from the pandemic, the Ukraine war and rising input, freight and energy costs.

"It's very clear that when consumers have paid for their food, energy, gas, and so on there is less to spend. So what is obvious is that demand for value for money increases."

The lion's part of the cuts would be made in Sweden, Vinge said.

While high-street retailers are struggling due to stiff competition from online-only brands, British fashion retailer Primark has recently announced plans to add 1,800 jobs in Spain and Britain as it benefits from shoppers trading down in price.

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Stockholm-headquartered fashion label Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) announced 1,500 job cuts citing lesser consumer demand due to soaring inflation in the countries that constitute its core market base.

Stockholm-headquartered fashion label Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) announced 1,500 job cuts citing lesser consumer demand due to soaring inflation in the countries that constitute its core market base. After Paris-based Louis Vuitton, H&M is the world's second richest fashion label and sells its "disposable fashion" in 53 countries worldwide. The development comes amid rising cost of living crisis in European countries stoked in-part by escalation of conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The crisis has pushed companies across Europe and the United States to take drastic steps to weather the period of uncertainties. H&M employs about 155,000 people worldwide. The current cuts are aimed at saving 2 billion Swedish crowns per year ($189.5 million). The company said the savings would begin from the second half of next year, while it will take a restructuring charge of 800 million Swedish crowns ($75.80 million) in the fourth quarter. ALSO READ | From pandemic boom to layoff season: Why big tech firms are firing thousands of employees "We are in a big transition and the whole retail industry is facing a lot of challenges," H&M's investor relations head Nils Vinge told Reuters, pointing to headwinds from the pandemic, the Ukraine war and rising input, freight and energy costs. "It's very clear that when consumers have paid for their food, energy, gas, and so on there is less to spend. So what is obvious is that demand for value for money increases." The lion's part of the cuts would be made in Sweden, Vinge said. While high-street retailers are struggling due to stiff competition from online-only brands, British fashion retailer Primark has recently announced plans to add 1,800 jobs in Spain and Britain as it benefits from shoppers trading down in price. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

H&M to lay off employees amid soft demand, soaring inflation

Climate activists' group 'Tyre Extinguishers' had their "largest ever night of action against luxury emmissions"&nbsp;with tyres of over 900 Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) deflated worldwide. The highest number of SUV tyres were deflated in the United Kingdom (340 SUVs), followed by Switzerland (172), Germany (124), France (112), Sweden (72), United States (52) and Austria (11).&nbsp;

Overnight, groups took action in Amsterdam and Enschede in the Netherlands, Paris and Lyon in France, Berlin, Bonn, Essen, Hanover and Saarbrucken in Germany, Bristol, Leeds, London and Dundee in the UK, Malmo in Sweden, Innsbruck in Austria, Zurich and Winterthur in Switzerland, and New York in the US.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-may-kill-65-per-cent-of-insects-on-earth-says-a-study-533970">Climate change may kill 65 per cent of insects on Earth, says a study</a>

"Last night (the evening of Monday 28th November and early morning of Tuesday 29th November), citizens in eight countries deflated tyres of&nbsp;nearly 900 polluting SUVs. This is the biggest coordinated global action against high-carbon vehicles in history, with many more to come," the group said in a statement.&nbsp;

The movement has now deflated tyres on well over 10,000 SUVs in cities across the world since March. "This is the largest night of action yet," the statement added.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/impact-of-climate-change-being-witnessed-everywhere-pm-modi-speaks-at-mission-life-launch-527017">Impact of climate change being witnessed everywhere: PM Modi</a>&nbsp;

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"We want to show that anyone, everywhere, can take climate action to end the dominance of massive cars in the world’s cities. All they need is a leaflet and a lentil! Our movement will continue to grow – once the idea is out there, it can’t be stopped,” Marion Walker, Tyre Extinguishers spokesperson said in an official statement.&nbsp;

Reported to have been set up in March, the Tyre Extinguishers have criticised SUVs as unnecessary ‘luxury emissions’,&nbsp;by the wealthy and conventionally privileged individuals. They say that SUVs&nbsp;are a climate disaster, cause air pollution and "make our roads more dangerous.

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Climate activists' group 'Tyre Extinguishers' had their "largest ever night of action against luxury emmissions" with tyres of over 900 Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) deflated worldwide.

Climate activists' group 'Tyre Extinguishers' had their "largest ever night of action against luxury emmissions" with tyres of over 900 Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) deflated worldwide. The highest number of SUV tyres were deflated in the United Kingdom (340 SUVs), followed by Switzerland (172), Germany (124), France (112), Sweden (72), United States (52) and Austria (11). Overnight, groups took action in Amsterdam and Enschede in the Netherlands, Paris and Lyon in France, Berlin, Bonn, Essen, Hanover and Saarbrucken in Germany, Bristol, Leeds, London and Dundee in the UK, Malmo in Sweden, Innsbruck in Austria, Zurich and Winterthur in Switzerland, and New York in the US. ALSO READ | Climate change may kill 65 per cent of insects on Earth, says a study "Last night (the evening of Monday 28th November and early morning of Tuesday 29th November), citizens in eight countries deflated tyres of nearly 900 polluting SUVs. This is the biggest coordinated global action against high-carbon vehicles in history, with many more to come," the group said in a statement. The movement has now deflated tyres on well over 10,000 SUVs in cities across the world since March. "This is the largest night of action yet," the statement added. WATCH | Impact of climate change being witnessed everywhere: PM Modi × "We want to show that anyone, everywhere, can take climate action to end the dominance of massive cars in the world’s cities. All they need is a leaflet and a lentil! Our movement will continue to grow – once the idea is out there, it can’t be stopped,” Marion Walker, Tyre Extinguishers spokesperson said in an official statement. Reported to have been set up in March, the Tyre Extinguishers have criticised SUVs as unnecessary ‘luxury emissions’, by the wealthy and conventionally privileged individuals. They say that SUVs are a climate disaster, cause air pollution and "make our roads more dangerous. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate activists deflate tyres of over 900 SUVs worldwide overnight to protest ‘luxury emissions’

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hit back at a reporter when he asked if she and Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin met because they share similarities related to age and coherent political journeys in their respective countries.&nbsp;Ardern retorted by pointing out if her predecessor John Key and former US President Barack Obama ever faced similar questions because both of them were of similar age at the bilateral moments of cooperation between the US and New Zealand during their tenures.

"We of course have a higher proportion of men in politics, it's reality," Ardern said during a joint presser she addressed along with Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin in Auckland during the latter's visit to New Zealand.&nbsp;

"Because two women meet, it's not simply because of their gender," Ardern said, adding that Finland exports $199 million worth of goods and services into New Zealand.

She said New Zealand exported $14 million of goods a year to Finland and there was huge potential for future opportunities that the two leaders discussed.&nbsp;

"The focus of our conversation is what more we could do together in support of other women in other countries who are facing dire circumstances, where we see the most basic of human rights being repressed and violated," Ardern said.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/leaders-of-new-zealand-and-finland-hit-back-at-reporters-question-on-age-and-gender-538827">Leaders of New Zealand and Finland hit back at reporter’s question on age and gender</a>

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Finland shares a 1300-kilometre border with Russia. Following the beginning of conflict between Russia and Ukraine after the former announced 'special military operations' in Ukraine in February this year, Finland as well as its neighbour Sweden have applied to join NATO.&nbsp;

Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin, while responding to the queries from journalists if the accusations of her being the "partying Prime Minister" were true, said that she has more important issues that warrant her attention. The tag became Marin's part of political identity after visuals of her dancing and singing with friends at a private party surfaced on social media earlier this year.&nbsp;

READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-are-finnish-pm-sanna-marins-party-videos-bothering-you-508687">Why are Finnish PM Sanna Marin’s party videos bothering you?</a>

"So I had a couple of free days during the summer," Marin said.

"You are free to discuss and write what you want, but I'm focusing on the issues that are in our programem," she added.

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New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hit back at a reporter when he asked if she and Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin met because they share similarities related to age and coherent political journeys in their respective countries.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hit back at a reporter when he asked if she and Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin met because they share similarities related to age and coherent political journeys in their respective countries. Ardern retorted by pointing out if her predecessor John Key and former US President Barack Obama ever faced similar questions because both of them were of similar age at the bilateral moments of cooperation between the US and New Zealand during their tenures. "We of course have a higher proportion of men in politics, it's reality," Ardern said during a joint presser she addressed along with Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin in Auckland during the latter's visit to New Zealand. "Because two women meet, it's not simply because of their gender," Ardern said, adding that Finland exports $199 million worth of goods and services into New Zealand. She said New Zealand exported $14 million of goods a year to Finland and there was huge potential for future opportunities that the two leaders discussed. "The focus of our conversation is what more we could do together in support of other women in other countries who are facing dire circumstances, where we see the most basic of human rights being repressed and violated," Ardern said. WATCH | Leaders of New Zealand and Finland hit back at reporter’s question on age and gender × Finland shares a 1300-kilometre border with Russia. Following the beginning of conflict between Russia and Ukraine after the former announced 'special military operations' in Ukraine in February this year, Finland as well as its neighbour Sweden have applied to join NATO. Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin, while responding to the queries from journalists if the accusations of her being the "partying Prime Minister" were true, said that she has more important issues that warrant her attention. The tag became Marin's part of political identity after visuals of her dancing and singing with friends at a private party surfaced on social media earlier this year. READ | Why are Finnish PM Sanna Marin’s party videos bothering you? "So I had a couple of free days during the summer," Marin said. "You are free to discuss and write what you want, but I'm focusing on the issues that are in our programem," she added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender

In a strange case of bilateral common-ground between India and China amid their continued hostilities, Beijing told American officials not to interfere in its relationship with India, the Pentagon said in a report to the US Congress. India too disapproves any third-party interference with respect to its prevailing bilateral disputes with its neighbours.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) standoff between the two sides, Chinese officials reportedly downplayed the severity of the crisis. Beijing emphasised on its purported intent to preserve "border stability" and prevent the standoff from harming other areas of its bilateral relationship with India, the Pentagon said in a report on Tuesday.

"The PRC (People's Republic of China) seeks to prevent border tensions from causing India to partner more closely with the United States. PRC officials have warned US officials to not interfere with the PRC's relationship with India," the Pentagon said in its latest report on Chinese military build-up.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-ties-many-stumbles-no-meets-537197">India-China ties: Many stumbles, no meets</a>

In a section on the China-India border, the Pentagon said throughout 2021, China's People Liberation Army (PLA) sustained the deployment of forces and continued infrastructure build-up along the LAC. Negotiation made minimal progress as both sides resist losing perceived advantages on the border, it said.

Beginning in May 2020, Chinese and Indian forces faced off in clashes with rocks, batons, and clubs wrapped in barbed wire at multiple locations along the LAC. The resulting standoff triggered the build-up of forces on both sides of the border.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-china-standoff-is-tibet-the-new-front-309514">Gravitas: India-China standoff | Is Tibet the new front?</a>

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"Each country demanded the withdrawal of the other's forces and a return to pre-standoff conditions, but neither China nor India agreed on those conditions," it said.

"The PRC blamed the standoff on Indian infrastructure construction, which it perceived as encroaching on PRC territory, while India accused China of launching aggressive incursions into India's territory," it added.

Since the 2020 clash, PLA has maintained a continuous force presence and continued infrastructure build-up along the LAC.

The 2020 Galwan Valley incident was the deadliest clash between the two nations in the past 46 years, the report said. On June 15, 2020, patrols violently clashed in Galwan Valley resulting in the death of approximately 20 Indian soldiers and an unspecified number of PLA troops, according to PRC officials, it said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a strange case of bilateral common-ground between India and China amid their continued hostilities, Beijing told American officials not to interfere in its relationship with India, the Pentagon said in a report to the US Congress.

In a strange case of bilateral common-ground between India and China amid their continued hostilities, Beijing told American officials not to interfere in its relationship with India, the Pentagon said in a report to the US Congress. India too disapproves any third-party interference with respect to its prevailing bilateral disputes with its neighbours. Since the beginning of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) standoff between the two sides, Chinese officials reportedly downplayed the severity of the crisis. Beijing emphasised on its purported intent to preserve "border stability" and prevent the standoff from harming other areas of its bilateral relationship with India, the Pentagon said in a report on Tuesday. "The PRC (People's Republic of China) seeks to prevent border tensions from causing India to partner more closely with the United States. PRC officials have warned US officials to not interfere with the PRC's relationship with India," the Pentagon said in its latest report on Chinese military build-up. ALSO READ | India-China ties: Many stumbles, no meets In a section on the China-India border, the Pentagon said throughout 2021, China's People Liberation Army (PLA) sustained the deployment of forces and continued infrastructure build-up along the LAC. Negotiation made minimal progress as both sides resist losing perceived advantages on the border, it said. Beginning in May 2020, Chinese and Indian forces faced off in clashes with rocks, batons, and clubs wrapped in barbed wire at multiple locations along the LAC. The resulting standoff triggered the build-up of forces on both sides of the border. WATCH | Gravitas: India-China standoff | Is Tibet the new front? × "Each country demanded the withdrawal of the other's forces and a return to pre-standoff conditions, but neither China nor India agreed on those conditions," it said. "The PRC blamed the standoff on Indian infrastructure construction, which it perceived as encroaching on PRC territory, while India accused China of launching aggressive incursions into India's territory," it added. Since the 2020 clash, PLA has maintained a continuous force presence and continued infrastructure build-up along the LAC. The 2020 Galwan Valley incident was the deadliest clash between the two nations in the past 46 years, the report said. On June 15, 2020, patrols violently clashed in Galwan Valley resulting in the death of approximately 20 Indian soldiers and an unspecified number of PLA troops, according to PRC officials, it said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Beijing warned US officials not to interfere with India-China ties: Pentagon report

Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson fans may disagree but latest scientific research-based evidence argues that bats too are the death metal singers and exceptional ones as they possess unparalleled voice range. Scientists have discovered that bats greet each other with death metal growls and possess a vocal range, which is far from the one that most humans, if not all, including Halford and Dickinson, possess.

Bats possess 'unparalleled' vocal range

The study, published in Plos Biology, points out that bats produce very diverse vocal signals for "social communication" among other things, with an impressive frequency range of 1 to 120 kHz or seven octaves.

Very few human singers have a vocal range of five octaves, Mariah Carey and Prince being the famous examples. The legendary Indian playback singer Lata Mangeshkar had a vocal range that extended more than three octaves while her sister Asha Bhonsle has a vocal range of four octaves. Pakistani singing legend Noor Jehan also had the vocal range of four octaves.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-new-coronaviruses-in-bats-in-laos-453919">Scientists find new coronaviruses in bats in Laos</a>

"This tremendous vocal range is unparalleled in mammalian sound production and thought to be produced by specialised laryngeal vocal membranes on top of vocal folds," it said.&nbsp;

"Bats extend their lower vocal range by recruiting their ventricular folds—as in death metal growls—that vibrate at distinctly lower frequencies of 1 to 5 kHz for producing agonistic social calls," it added.

Researchers who led the study said that if one listens to a bat colony in the summer, these calls for social communication can be heard very clearly.&nbsp;

"We don’t know the function of the calls, but they make them when they are annoyed with each other, and when they fly away or join a colony," Prof Coen Elemans, who led the research at the University of Southern Denmark, said in a statement.&nbsp;

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Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson fans may disagree but latest scientific research-based evidence argues that bats too are the death metal singers and exceptional ones as they possess unparalleled voice range.

Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson fans may disagree but latest scientific research-based evidence argues that bats too are the death metal singers and exceptional ones as they possess unparalleled voice range. Scientists have discovered that bats greet each other with death metal growls and possess a vocal range, which is far from the one that most humans, if not all, including Halford and Dickinson, possess. Bats possess 'unparalleled' vocal range The study, published in Plos Biology, points out that bats produce very diverse vocal signals for "social communication" among other things, with an impressive frequency range of 1 to 120 kHz or seven octaves. Very few human singers have a vocal range of five octaves, Mariah Carey and Prince being the famous examples. The legendary Indian playback singer Lata Mangeshkar had a vocal range that extended more than three octaves while her sister Asha Bhonsle has a vocal range of four octaves. Pakistani singing legend Noor Jehan also had the vocal range of four octaves. ALSO READ | Scientists find new coronaviruses in bats in Laos "This tremendous vocal range is unparalleled in mammalian sound production and thought to be produced by specialised laryngeal vocal membranes on top of vocal folds," it said. "Bats extend their lower vocal range by recruiting their ventricular folds—as in death metal growls—that vibrate at distinctly lower frequencies of 1 to 5 kHz for producing agonistic social calls," it added. Researchers who led the study said that if one listens to a bat colony in the summer, these calls for social communication can be heard very clearly. "We don’t know the function of the calls, but they make them when they are annoyed with each other, and when they fly away or join a colony," Prof Coen Elemans, who led the research at the University of Southern Denmark, said in a statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bats are ‘death metal singers’ with ‘unparalleled’ vocal range: Study

Days after Seoul extradited a 42-year-old woman accused of murdering two children whose bodies were found in a suitcase in New Zealand, an Auckland court heard the case for the first time.&nbsp;

The judge at Auckland's Manukau District Court said that the murdered children were indeed accused woman's own. The woman was remanded into police custody until December 14, until her next hearing in the Auckland High Court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-suitcase-murder-south-korea-extradites-the-42-year-old-suspect-538456">New Zealand 'suitcase murders': Seoul court approves extradition of suspect Korean woman</a>

The hearing lasted less than five minutes, New Zealand Herald reported.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, the Korean-born New Zealander was handed over to New Zealand authorities at Incheon International Airport. Accused of&nbsp;killing her 7-year-old and 10-year-old children in 2018, the woman allegedly fled from Auckland to South Korea in 2018 itself.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-suitcase-murder-south-korea-extradites-the-42-year-old-suspect-538456">New Zealand 'suitcase murder': South Korea hands over the 42-year-old suspect to Wellington authorities</a>

“Along with the suspect, the justice ministry has also secured key evidence and provided it to New Zealand as per their request,” the ministry said in a statement.

The woman denied the murder allegations, police said in September when they arrested her in the city of Ulsan after the global police agency Interpol issued a red notice for her.

“I did not do it,” she told reporters at the time.

New Zealand police launched a homicide inquiry in Auckland after the remains of the children were found by a family going through the contents of a storage locker they had purchased. The family who found the bodies were not connected to the deaths.

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&nbsp;

Days after Seoul extradited a 42-year-old woman accused of murdering two children whose bodies were found in a suitcase in New Zealand, an Auckland court heard the case for the first time.

Days after Seoul extradited a 42-year-old woman accused of murdering two children whose bodies were found in a suitcase in New Zealand, an Auckland court heard the case for the first time. The judge at Auckland's Manukau District Court said that the murdered children were indeed accused woman's own. The woman was remanded into police custody until December 14, until her next hearing in the Auckland High Court. ALSO READ | New Zealand 'suitcase murders': Seoul court approves extradition of suspect Korean woman The hearing lasted less than five minutes, New Zealand Herald reported. Earlier on Monday, the Korean-born New Zealander was handed over to New Zealand authorities at Incheon International Airport. Accused of killing her 7-year-old and 10-year-old children in 2018, the woman allegedly fled from Auckland to South Korea in 2018 itself. ALSO READ | New Zealand 'suitcase murder': South Korea hands over the 42-year-old suspect to Wellington authorities “Along with the suspect, the justice ministry has also secured key evidence and provided it to New Zealand as per their request,” the ministry said in a statement. The woman denied the murder allegations, police said in September when they arrested her in the city of Ulsan after the global police agency Interpol issued a red notice for her. “I did not do it,” she told reporters at the time. New Zealand police launched a homicide inquiry in Auckland after the remains of the children were found by a family going through the contents of a storage locker they had purchased. The family who found the bodies were not connected to the deaths. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Suitcase murder' case: After extradition from Seoul, Auckland court sends accused to remand

Coral reef bleaching may be easing after three years of high ocean temperatures, the longest such period since the 1980s, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said Monday. If they do in fact ease, it will reverse a worrying and important trend.

But a UNESCO draft report also says that in this same three year period&nbsp;75 per cent of world heritage coral reefs have already been exposed to stress from warmer waters&nbsp;that causes bleaching, <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-20/world-heritage-coral-reefs-risk-coral-bleaching-unesco-report/8634502" target="_blank">ABC </a>reports.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-need-to-rethink-our-role-on-planet-if-corals-cannot-be-saved-538687">'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved'</a>

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The NOAA brought good news, but the UNESCO report may dampen that. It says, "Coral mortality during the latest global-bleaching event most likely has been the worst ever observed, including at world heritage property reefs."

If coral bleaching is indeed easing up, hopefully it's not too late.

What is&nbsp;coral bleaching and why does it matter?

Basically, when coral dies, it bleaches. Healthy coral reefs protect shores from storms and offer habitats for fish and other marine life, including ecologically and economically important species.

However, after corals die, reefs quickly degrade and the structures that corals build erode. While corals can recover from mild bleaching, severe or long-term bleaching is often lethal, experts say.

Early in 2017, the rise in water temperature caused significant bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia for the second consecutive year and also in American Samoa, which was severely affected in 2015.

What's new?

NOAA experts said satellite data and other analysis showed widespread bleaching was no longer occurring in all three ocean basins -- Atlantic, Pacific and Indian -- "indicating a likely end to the global bleaching event".

NOAA scientists&nbsp;said they will closely monitor sea surface temperatures and bleaching "over the next six months to confirm the event's end".

Since 2015, all tropical coral reefs have seen above-normal temperatures, and more than 70 per cent experienced prolonged high temperatures that can cause bleaching.&nbsp;

US coral reefs were hit hardest, with two years of severe bleaching in Florida and Hawaii, three in the Mariana Islands, and four in Guam, according to the NOAA.

(With inputs from AFP)

Healthy coral protects shores from storms, and gives fish and other important marine life a place to live

Coral reef bleaching may be easing after three years of high ocean temperatures, the longest such period since the 1980s, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said Monday. If they do in fact ease, it will reverse a worrying and important trend. But a UNESCO draft report also says that in this same three year period 75 per cent of world heritage coral reefs have already been exposed to stress from warmer waters that causes bleaching, ABC reports. WATCH | 'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved' × The NOAA brought good news, but the UNESCO report may dampen that. It says, "Coral mortality during the latest global-bleaching event most likely has been the worst ever observed, including at world heritage property reefs." If coral bleaching is indeed easing up, hopefully it's not too late. What is coral bleaching and why does it matter? Basically, when coral dies, it bleaches. Healthy coral reefs protect shores from storms and offer habitats for fish and other marine life, including ecologically and economically important species. However, after corals die, reefs quickly degrade and the structures that corals build erode. While corals can recover from mild bleaching, severe or long-term bleaching is often lethal, experts say. Early in 2017, the rise in water temperature caused significant bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia for the second consecutive year and also in American Samoa, which was severely affected in 2015. What's new? NOAA experts said satellite data and other analysis showed widespread bleaching was no longer occurring in all three ocean basins -- Atlantic, Pacific and Indian -- "indicating a likely end to the global bleaching event". NOAA scientists said they will closely monitor sea surface temperatures and bleaching "over the next six months to confirm the event's end". Since 2015, all tropical coral reefs have seen above-normal temperatures, and more than 70 per cent experienced prolonged high temperatures that can cause bleaching. US coral reefs were hit hardest, with two years of severe bleaching in Florida and Hawaii, three in the Mariana Islands, and four in Guam, according to the NOAA. (With inputs from AFP)

Global coral bleaching may be ending, says US agency

Coral bleached for two consecutive years at Australia's Great Barrier Reef has "zero prospect" of recovery, scientists warned Monday, as they confirmed the site has again been hit by warming sea temperatures.

Researchers said last month they were detecting another round of mass bleaching this year after a severe event in 2016, and their fears were confirmed after aerial surveys of the entire 2,300-kilometre (1,400-mile) long bio-diverse reef.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-need-to-rethink-our-role-on-planet-if-corals-cannot-be-saved-538687">'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved'</a>

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Last year, the northern areas of the World Heritage-listed area were hardest hit, with the middle-third now experiencing the worst effects.

"Bleached corals are not necessarily dead corals, but in the severe central region we anticipate high levels of coral loss," said James Kerry, a marine biologist at James Cook University who led the aerial surveys.

"It takes at least a decade for a full recovery of even the fastest growing corals, so mass bleaching events 12 months apart offer zero prospect of recovery for reefs that were damaged in 2016."

It is the fourth time coral bleaching -- where stressed corals expel the algae that live in their tissue and provide them with food -- has hit the reef after previous events in 1998 and 2002.

"The combined impact of this back-to-back bleaching stretches for 1,500 kilometres, leaving only the southern third unscathed," said Terry Hughes, head of the Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, also at James Cook University. 
"The bleaching is caused by record-breaking temperatures driven by global warming.

"This year, 2017, we are seeing mass bleaching, even without the assistance of El Nino conditions," he added, referring to the natural climate cycle in the Pacific Ocean.

The Barrier Reef is already under pressure from farming run-off, development and the crown-of-thorns starfish.

It was also recently hammered by category four Cyclone Debbie, which barrelled through the region last month, mostly affecting southern parts around the Whitsunday islands which largely escaped the bleaching.

The extent of the destruction wrought by Debbie is not yet known, although scientists have said damage could range from minor to severe.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority began a study last week to determine how extensive it might be and have already found extensive pulverised coral at popular snorkeling spots.

"The feedback that's coming back is the more sheltered areas have come out a bit better, but they all seem to have suffered some form of damage," Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators'&nbsp;Brendon Robinson told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

The Whitsundays is one of the reef's tourist hotspots, attracting more than 40 per cent of total visitors to the iconic marine ecosystem.

Hughes warned rising temperatures could see more bleaching events.

"Clearly the reef is struggling with multiple impacts. Without a doubt the most pressing of these is global warming," he said.&nbsp;

"As temperatures continue to rise the corals will experience more and more of these events. One degree Celsius of warming so far has already caused four events in the past 19 years.

"Ultimately, we need to cut carbon emissions, and the window to do so is rapidly closing."

The world's nations agreed in Paris in 2015 to limit average warming to two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) over pre-industrial levels, by curbing fossil fuel burning.

Canberra in 2015 narrowly avoided UNESCO putting the reef on its endangered list, and has committed more than Aus$2.0 billion (US$1.5 billion) to protect it over the next decade.

(AFP)

The Barrier Reef is already under pressure from farming run-off, development and the crown-of-thorns starfish

Coral bleached for two consecutive years at Australia's Great Barrier Reef has "zero prospect" of recovery, scientists warned Monday, as they confirmed the site has again been hit by warming sea temperatures. Researchers said last month they were detecting another round of mass bleaching this year after a severe event in 2016, and their fears were confirmed after aerial surveys of the entire 2,300-kilometre (1,400-mile) long bio-diverse reef. WATCH | 'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved' × Last year, the northern areas of the World Heritage-listed area were hardest hit, with the middle-third now experiencing the worst effects. "Bleached corals are not necessarily dead corals, but in the severe central region we anticipate high levels of coral loss," said James Kerry, a marine biologist at James Cook University who led the aerial surveys. "It takes at least a decade for a full recovery of even the fastest growing corals, so mass bleaching events 12 months apart offer zero prospect of recovery for reefs that were damaged in 2016." It is the fourth time coral bleaching -- where stressed corals expel the algae that live in their tissue and provide them with food -- has hit the reef after previous events in 1998 and 2002. "The combined impact of this back-to-back bleaching stretches for 1,500 kilometres, leaving only the southern third unscathed," said Terry Hughes, head of the Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, also at James Cook University. "The bleaching is caused by record-breaking temperatures driven by global warming. "This year, 2017, we are seeing mass bleaching, even without the assistance of El Nino conditions," he added, referring to the natural climate cycle in the Pacific Ocean. The Barrier Reef is already under pressure from farming run-off, development and the crown-of-thorns starfish. It was also recently hammered by category four Cyclone Debbie, which barrelled through the region last month, mostly affecting southern parts around the Whitsunday islands which largely escaped the bleaching. The extent of the destruction wrought by Debbie is not yet known, although scientists have said damage could range from minor to severe. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority began a study last week to determine how extensive it might be and have already found extensive pulverised coral at popular snorkeling spots. "The feedback that's coming back is the more sheltered areas have come out a bit better, but they all seem to have suffered some form of damage," Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators' Brendon Robinson told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. The Whitsundays is one of the reef's tourist hotspots, attracting more than 40 per cent of total visitors to the iconic marine ecosystem. Hughes warned rising temperatures could see more bleaching events. "Clearly the reef is struggling with multiple impacts. Without a doubt the most pressing of these is global warming," he said. "As temperatures continue to rise the corals will experience more and more of these events. One degree Celsius of warming so far has already caused four events in the past 19 years. "Ultimately, we need to cut carbon emissions, and the window to do so is rapidly closing." The world's nations agreed in Paris in 2015 to limit average warming to two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) over pre-industrial levels, by curbing fossil fuel burning. Canberra in 2015 narrowly avoided UNESCO putting the reef on its endangered list, and has committed more than Aus$2.0 billion (US$1.5 billion) to protect it over the next decade. (AFP)

Australia: 'Zero recovery' for corals in back-to-back bleaching

The White paper against Chinese President Xi Jinping is out across multiple demonstrations spread across China. Police and Communist Party officials took over the streets as people protested against 'zero Covid regime' while voicing their opposition against Xi Jinping's presidency. From the frontline of Russia-Ukraine war, the Kremlin warned Washington that its increasing engagement in context of the ongoing conflict risks an escalation of already heightened hostilities between Kyiv and Moscow.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-force-takes-over-the-streets-of-china-to-prevent-covid-demonstrations-538372">Police force takes over the streets of China to prevent Covid demonstrations</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314429-00032vj7v3.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

China was taking all possible steps to prevent escalation of Covid protests in the country on Tuesday. The police were out in force in Beijing and Shanghai to keep protesters away who even called for Xi Jinping to step down as president. Notably, Covid curbs have disrupted the lives of millions or people in the country and damaged the economy. However, Beijing doesn't seem to be in the mood to loosen restrictions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washingtons-increasing-involvement-in-ukraine-carries-growing-risks-warns-russia-538597">Washington's increasing involvement in Ukraine carries growing risks, warns Russia</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314468-e6hko55dl5j4barljgabjep6wy.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/perversion-russia-calls-out-pope-francis-comments-against-minority-soldiers-538560">'Perversion': Russia calls out Pope Francis comments against minority soldiers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314443-untitled-design-16.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Russia hit out at the comments by Pope Francis that sought to draw distinction between Russian soldiers who belong to the Russian tradition and those who purportedly do not. Pope Francis had alleged that during the war in Ukraine, soldiers who are "generally Chechens and Buryats" showed the "cruelest" conduct.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-investigation-over-confidential-govt-documents-drags-on-trump-brags-openly-and-transparently-took-them-538519">As investigation over confidential govt documents drags on, Trump brags 'openly and transparently' took them</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314412-new-wion-13.png?imwidth=1920" />

Former United States president Donald Trump who is under fire for removing sensitive government documents from the White House while vacating it has now bragged about how he "openly and transparently" moved the confidential records to his own residence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-more-than-300-dead-in-protests-sparked-by-aminis-death-says-irgc-general-538527">Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314417-io3d2wncdzpnjd62evivlh5t7m.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

More than 300 people have perished in the more than two months of protests that have been instigated by Mahsa Amini's death while being held by the morality police, Iran revealed for the first time.&nbsp;The Islamic Republic has sent in state security forces to quell what it refers to as "riots" that started after the Kurdish Iranian woman, 22, who was detained for allegedly breaking Iran's dress code for women, died on September 16, three days after her arrest.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-blank-sheets-of-paper-became-a-symbol-of-protest-in-china-538532">How blank sheets of paper became a symbol of protest in China</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314420-00032vg2eu.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

China has seen massive protests in the past few days with the citizens taking a stand against the fresh set of COVID-19 restrictions and the resultant lockdown&nbsp;in the various parts of the country. While the protesters have been shouting slogans and displaying various banners against the Xi Jinping-led government, some have come up with a new tool of protest – a blank sheet of paper.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-dumps-gay-sex-ban-but-constitutional-amendment-worries-activists-538577">Singapore dumps gay sex ban but constitutional amendment worries activists</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/11/6014-GettyImages-83579242-20160703071441.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Singapore parliament on Tuesday (November 29) decriminalised sex between men. However, the parliament also amended the constitution to prevent court challenges which in other countries have led to legalisation of same-sex marriages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usa-five-policemen-charged-with-cruelty-after-black-man-paralysed-in-police-van-538574">USA: Five policemen charged with cruelty after black man paralysed in police van</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314452-untitled-design-17.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In an incident that followed the cautionary tale of George Floyd's killing in the United States' Connecticut, five police officers were charged with reckless endangerment and cruelty, after a man they arrested was partially paralysed in the back of a police van.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-will-argentina-qualify-for-round-of-16-know-3-scenarios-as-messi-and-co-meet-poland-538591">FIFA World Cup 2022: Will Argentina qualify for round of 16? Know 3 scenarios as Messi and Co. meet Poland</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314460-gwsgdgn635jldb6nop3vn4oc2u.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Argentina started off Qatar World Cup 2022 with one of the biggest upsets of FIFA World Cup history. Saudi Arabia took them for a ride in their opening match with a shock 2-1 victory. Their poor performance against Saudi Arabia made it mandatory for them to register a victory against Mexico in Argentina’s second match of the World Cup. Lionel Messi's long-range low shot gave Argentina the crucial lead after nearly an hour of tenacious resistance from Mexico, and youngster Enzo Fernandez's late screamer help Argentina secure a 2-0 victory. All in all, despite the early setback, Argentina’s hopes to reach the round of 16 are well alive and kicking!

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/indian-film-all-that-breathes-wins-documentary-feature-prize-at-32nd-gotham-awards-538508">Indian film 'All That Breathes' wins Documentary Feature prize at 32nd Gotham Awards</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/31/237414-untitled-design-2022-01-31t121427328.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Shaunak Sen's path-breaking documentary 'All That Breathes' has added another feather to its coveted hat. The film won the Documentary Feature prize at the 32nd annual Gotham Awards recently.

The White paper against Chinese President Xi Jinping is out across multiple demonstrations spread across China. Police and Communist Party officials took over the streets as people protested against 'zero Covid regime' while voicing their opposition against Xi Jinping's presidency.

The White paper against Chinese President Xi Jinping is out across multiple demonstrations spread across China. Police and Communist Party officials took over the streets as people protested against 'zero Covid regime' while voicing their opposition against Xi Jinping's presidency. From the frontline of Russia-Ukraine war, the Kremlin warned Washington that its increasing engagement in context of the ongoing conflict risks an escalation of already heightened hostilities between Kyiv and Moscow. Click on the headlines to read more: Police force takes over the streets of China to prevent Covid demonstrations China was taking all possible steps to prevent escalation of Covid protests in the country on Tuesday. The police were out in force in Beijing and Shanghai to keep protesters away who even called for Xi Jinping to step down as president. Notably, Covid curbs have disrupted the lives of millions or people in the country and damaged the economy. However, Beijing doesn't seem to be in the mood to loosen restrictions. Washington's increasing involvement in Ukraine carries growing risks, warns Russia Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing. 'Perversion': Russia calls out Pope Francis comments against minority soldiers Russia hit out at the comments by Pope Francis that sought to draw distinction between Russian soldiers who belong to the Russian tradition and those who purportedly do not. Pope Francis had alleged that during the war in Ukraine, soldiers who are "generally Chechens and Buryats" showed the "cruelest" conduct. As investigation over confidential govt documents drags on, Trump brags 'openly and transparently' took them Former United States president Donald Trump who is under fire for removing sensitive government documents from the White House while vacating it has now bragged about how he "openly and transparently" moved the confidential records to his own residence. Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general More than 300 people have perished in the more than two months of protests that have been instigated by Mahsa Amini's death while being held by the morality police, Iran revealed for the first time. The Islamic Republic has sent in state security forces to quell what it refers to as "riots" that started after the Kurdish Iranian woman, 22, who was detained for allegedly breaking Iran's dress code for women, died on September 16, three days after her arrest. How blank sheets of paper became a symbol of protest in China China has seen massive protests in the past few days with the citizens taking a stand against the fresh set of COVID-19 restrictions and the resultant lockdown in the various parts of the country. While the protesters have been shouting slogans and displaying various banners against the Xi Jinping-led government, some have come up with a new tool of protest – a blank sheet of paper. Singapore dumps gay sex ban but constitutional amendment worries activists Singapore parliament on Tuesday (November 29) decriminalised sex between men. However, the parliament also amended the constitution to prevent court challenges which in other countries have led to legalisation of same-sex marriages. USA: Five policemen charged with cruelty after black man paralysed in police van In an incident that followed the cautionary tale of George Floyd's killing in the United States' Connecticut, five police officers were charged with reckless endangerment and cruelty, after a man they arrested was partially paralysed in the back of a police van. FIFA World Cup 2022: Will Argentina qualify for round of 16? Know 3 scenarios as Messi and Co. meet Poland Argentina started off Qatar World Cup 2022 with one of the biggest upsets of FIFA World Cup history. Saudi Arabia took them for a ride in their opening match with a shock 2-1 victory. Their poor performance against Saudi Arabia made it mandatory for them to register a victory against Mexico in Argentina’s second match of the World Cup. Lionel Messi's long-range low shot gave Argentina the crucial lead after nearly an hour of tenacious resistance from Mexico, and youngster Enzo Fernandez's late screamer help Argentina secure a 2-0 victory. All in all, despite the early setback, Argentina’s hopes to reach the round of 16 are well alive and kicking! Indian film 'All That Breathes' wins Documentary Feature prize at 32nd Gotham Awards Shaunak Sen's path-breaking documentary 'All That Breathes' has added another feather to its coveted hat. The film won the Documentary Feature prize at the 32nd annual Gotham Awards recently.

Top 10 world news: Police takes over streets across China, Russia calls out Pope's comments and more

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