Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, in a direct threat to annex Taiwan.&nbsp;

"All Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," said Xi, as reported by state news agency Xinhua&nbsp;

He further said that the Chinese economy had become "more resilient and dynamic" in the year 2023 even though the financial figures continue to disenchant post-COVID-19.

Xi on state broadcaster CCTV said that the economy had "weathered the storm" and become "more resilient and dynamic than before".

He also lauded the promotion of "high-quality development" and emerging industries such as electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar panels.&nbsp;

He said next year "We must consolidate and enhance the positive trend of economic recovery, and achieve long-term economic stability".

Yet he also acknowledged a few&nbsp;hardships, saying "Some companies are facing operating pressure (and) some people are encountering difficulties in employment and living conditions".

"All of these things concern me greatly," he said.

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"Our goal is both ambitious and yet very simple. In the end, it is to help people live better lives."

<h2>'Motherland will surely be reunified', says Xi</h2>

During his Sunday speech, Xi said that "the motherland will surely be reunified".&nbsp;

"Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said.&nbsp;

Previously, Xi has said that China would never rule out the move to exert force in order to bring Taiwan under its control.

<h2>Xi sends greetings to Putin</h2>

Earlier on Sunday, Xi also extended New Year greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin hailing the move to strengthen ties with Moscow in the year 2023, as per an official readout from the foreign ministry.&nbsp;

Xi said, "The material and public opinion foundation of our relationship has become stronger", according to CCTV.

"In the face of changes unseen in a century and a turbulent regional and international situation, China-Russia relations have maintained healthy and stable development and moved steadily in the right direction," Xi said.

"Under our joint leadership, political mutual trust between the two sides has further deepened, strategic coordination has drawn closer, and mutually beneficial cooperation has continued to achieve new results," he was quoted as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, in a direct threat to annex Taiwan.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, in a direct threat to annex Taiwan. "All Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," said Xi, as reported by state news agency Xinhua He further said that the Chinese economy had become "more resilient and dynamic" in the year 2023 even though the financial figures continue to disenchant post-COVID-19. Xi on state broadcaster CCTV said that the economy had "weathered the storm" and become "more resilient and dynamic than before". He also lauded the promotion of "high-quality development" and emerging industries such as electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar panels. He said next year "We must consolidate and enhance the positive trend of economic recovery, and achieve long-term economic stability". Yet he also acknowledged a few hardships, saying "Some companies are facing operating pressure (and) some people are encountering difficulties in employment and living conditions". "All of these things concern me greatly," he said. Also read: Putin says 'we will never back down' in New Year's Eve address "Our goal is both ambitious and yet very simple. In the end, it is to help people live better lives." 'Motherland will surely be reunified', says Xi During his Sunday speech, Xi said that "the motherland will surely be reunified". "Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said. Previously, Xi has said that China would never rule out the move to exert force in order to bring Taiwan under its control. Xi sends greetings to Putin Earlier on Sunday, Xi also extended New Year greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin hailing the move to strengthen ties with Moscow in the year 2023, as per an official readout from the foreign ministry. Xi said, "The material and public opinion foundation of our relationship has become stronger", according to CCTV. "In the face of changes unseen in a century and a turbulent regional and international situation, China-Russia relations have maintained healthy and stable development and moved steadily in the right direction," Xi said. "Under our joint leadership, political mutual trust between the two sides has further deepened, strategic coordination has drawn closer, and mutually beneficial cooperation has continued to achieve new results," he was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping makes most direct threat so far to annex Taiwan in New Year's speech

Suspected jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso have killed dozens of soldiers and civilians in a week, security and local sources told AFP on Sunday.

They said at least four attacks have targeted military contingents since last Sunday, leaving "dozens dead" mostly in the restive north of the country.

One local source said "a large group of heavily armed terrorists attacked the military base at Nouna" in the northwest on Saturday, with the clash leaving "several victims," both military and civilian.&nbsp;

A security source contacted by AFP confirmed an attack which was repelled and added that "another almost simultaneous attack targeted another northern detachment" but was likewise beaten back.

The sources said two other attacks on military bases took place on December 24.&nbsp;

"A large-scale attack targeted the Solle detachment. Several casualties were recorded... but the bravery and response (of troops) made it possible to repel the attackers," a security source told AFP, adding the jihadists were targeted by air strikes as they retreated.&nbsp;

That attack has been claimed by the GSIM jihadist alliance linked to Al-Qaeda. The group claimed it killed around 60 soldiers.&nbsp;

Also on December 24, according to a security source, a gendarmerie base was hit at Gorgadji in the northern Sahel region by a sizeable group of fighters who arrived on motorcycles.

The military government which took power in Burkina Faso following a September 2022 coup rarely comments on tolls from suspected jihadist attacks.

However, state television reported "more than 30 terrorists were killed," adding the army destroyed three jihadist bases discovered in the northwest.

Burkina has been caught since 2015 in a spiral of jihadist violence perpetrated by groups affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda, which were already hitting neighbouring Mali and Niger.

Suspected jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso have killed dozens of soldiers and civilians in a week, security and local sources told AFP on Sunday. They said at least four attacks have targeted military contingents since last Sunday, leaving "dozens dead" mostly in the restive north of the country.

Suspected jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso have killed dozens of soldiers and civilians in a week, security and local sources told AFP on Sunday. They said at least four attacks have targeted military contingents since last Sunday, leaving "dozens dead" mostly in the restive north of the country. One local source said "a large group of heavily armed terrorists attacked the military base at Nouna" in the northwest on Saturday, with the clash leaving "several victims," both military and civilian. A security source contacted by AFP confirmed an attack which was repelled and added that "another almost simultaneous attack targeted another northern detachment" but was likewise beaten back. The sources said two other attacks on military bases took place on December 24. "A large-scale attack targeted the Solle detachment. Several casualties were recorded... but the bravery and response (of troops) made it possible to repel the attackers," a security source told AFP, adding the jihadists were targeted by air strikes as they retreated. That attack has been claimed by the GSIM jihadist alliance linked to Al-Qaeda. The group claimed it killed around 60 soldiers. Also on December 24, according to a security source, a gendarmerie base was hit at Gorgadji in the northern Sahel region by a sizeable group of fighters who arrived on motorcycles. The military government which took power in Burkina Faso following a September 2022 coup rarely comments on tolls from suspected jihadist attacks. However, state television reported "more than 30 terrorists were killed," adding the army destroyed three jihadist bases discovered in the northwest. Burkina has been caught since 2015 in a spiral of jihadist violence perpetrated by groups affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda, which were already hitting neighbouring Mali and Niger.

'Dozens' dead in week of Burkina attacks: Security sources

In Pics | From 'Melodi' selfie to G20 summit, here are PM Modi's picture-perfect moments from 2023

McDonald's Malaysia on Friday (Dec 29) sued a pro-Palestinian group over allegedly calling people to boycott firms supporting Israel.

The popular fast-food chain sued the group for $1.3 million.

It released a statement saying that the civil suit it filed against BDS Malaysia was aimed at safeguarding its "rights and interests in accordance with the law".

McDonald's said it "does not support nor condone the current conflict in the Middle East".

"While we understand and respect that the act of boycotting is an individual decision, we believe that it should be based on facts and not false allegations," McDonald's said.&nbsp;

McDonald's has sought six million ringgit in damages for alleged defamation, according to a copy of the legal document seen by news agency AFP.

BDS Malaysia shared a post on social media platform X saying, "We categorically deny this" alleged defamation.

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BDS Malaysia is part of the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, which was launched by Palestinian civil society organisations in the year 2005.

The campaign advocates political and economic action against Israel over its treatment of Palestinians.

BDS Malaysia heightened its call for Malaysians to boycott Western brands, including McDonald's, KFC and Zara, in its response to Israel's counter-offensive in Gaza as it alleges these brands are "complicit with Israeli atrocities towards Palestinians".

Israel launched a counter-offensive in Gaza after Hamas' Oct 7 assault on Israel, which claimed the lives of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per news agency AFP's tally based on Israeli figures.

The Palestinian militant group also held approximately 250 people hostage with some of them still trapped in war zone and some believed to be dead.

Israel's relentless military campaign since then has killed at least 21,507 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

McDonald's Malaysia on Friday (Dec 29) sued a pro-Palestinian group over allegedly calling people to boycott firms supporting Israel. The popular fast-food chain sued the group for $1.

McDonald's Malaysia on Friday (Dec 29) sued a pro-Palestinian group over allegedly calling people to boycott firms supporting Israel. The popular fast-food chain sued the group for $1.3 million. It released a statement saying that the civil suit it filed against BDS Malaysia was aimed at safeguarding its "rights and interests in accordance with the law". McDonald's said it "does not support nor condone the current conflict in the Middle East". "While we understand and respect that the act of boycotting is an individual decision, we believe that it should be based on facts and not false allegations," McDonald's said. McDonald's has sought six million ringgit in damages for alleged defamation, according to a copy of the legal document seen by news agency AFP. BDS Malaysia shared a post on social media platform X saying, "We categorically deny this" alleged defamation. Also read: China expels nine army officials from parliament in a sweeping reshuffle BDS Malaysia is part of the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, which was launched by Palestinian civil society organisations in the year 2005. The campaign advocates political and economic action against Israel over its treatment of Palestinians. BDS Malaysia heightened its call for Malaysians to boycott Western brands, including McDonald's, KFC and Zara, in its response to Israel's counter-offensive in Gaza as it alleges these brands are "complicit with Israeli atrocities towards Palestinians". Israel launched a counter-offensive in Gaza after Hamas' Oct 7 assault on Israel, which claimed the lives of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, as per news agency AFP's tally based on Israeli figures. The Palestinian militant group also held approximately 250 people hostage with some of them still trapped in war zone and some believed to be dead. Israel's relentless military campaign since then has killed at least 21,507 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

McDonald’s Malaysia sues pro-Palestinian group over boycott calls

Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said.

"Eurostar services to and from London are being cancelled and there are severe delays to services due to infrastructure issues caused by flooding in one of the Thames tunnels located between St Pancras International and Ebbsfleet", the company said.

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The cancellations, which so far concern at least 14 trips between London and Paris, Amsterdam or Brussels, are the second blow for Eurostar customers during this year's holiday season. On Dec. 21, a French surprise strike action thwarted Christmas travel plans for thousands.

It was not immediately clear when rail traffic would be able to resume.

Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said.

Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said. "Eurostar services to and from London are being cancelled and there are severe delays to services due to infrastructure issues caused by flooding in one of the Thames tunnels located between St Pancras International and Ebbsfleet", the company said. Also read: Russia unleashes biggest aerial attack on Ukraine, killing 30; Zelensky says 'they hit us with everything' The cancellations, which so far concern at least 14 trips between London and Paris, Amsterdam or Brussels, are the second blow for Eurostar customers during this year's holiday season. On Dec. 21, a French surprise strike action thwarted Christmas travel plans for thousands. It was not immediately clear when rail traffic would be able to resume.

Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded

The swearing-in ceremony of the Rajasthan state cabinet took place on Saturday (Dec 30) at Jaipur's Raj Bhawan where 22 BJP MLAs were sworn in as ministers of the state government.

Out of the 22 ministers inducted, 12 were sworn in as cabinet ministers, five took oath as ministers of state with independent charge and five as ministers of state.

Former Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and senior BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena were also among the 12 MLAs sworn in as cabinet ministers in the Bhajan Lal Sharma-led government.

Meena, Madan Dilawar, Rathore, Gajendra Singh Khimsar, Babulal Kharadi, Jogaram Patel, Suresh Singh Rawat, Avinash Gehlot, Joraram Kumawat, Hemant Meena, Kanhaiya Lal Choudhary and Sumit Godara were the MLAs inducted into the Rajasthan cabinet.

Sanjay Sharma, Surendra Pal Singh TT, Jhabar Singh Kharra, Gautam Kumar, and Heeralal Nagar took oath as Ministers with Independent charge.

Otaram Dewasi, Manju Baghmar, Vijay Singh Choudhary, KK Bishnoi, and Jawahar Singh Bedam were sworn in as ministers of state.

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Rajasthan BJP leader Rajendra Rathore during the cabinet expansion said, "The cabinet will represent all sections and will be able to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Rajasthan."

<h2>Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma gets his team</h2>

Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma finally got his team&nbsp;on Saturday with the swearing in of ministers.&nbsp;After BJP won the state assembly election, Bhajan Lal Sharma was sworn in as the chief minister of Rajasthan at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's top leadership on Dec 15.

Sharma, former BJP state general secretary, took charge of the state on the day he turned 57.&nbsp;

Along with him, Diya Kumari and Prem Chand Bairwa were sworn in as the deputy chief ministers by Governor Kalraj Mishra. All three took the oath in Hindi.&nbsp;

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by PM Modi, BJP president J P Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and several other senior leaders of the party.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The swearing-in ceremony of the Rajasthan state cabinet took place on Saturday (Dec 30) at Jaipur's Raj Bhawan where 22 BJP MLAs were sworn in as ministers of the state government.

The swearing-in ceremony of the Rajasthan state cabinet took place on Saturday (Dec 30) at Jaipur's Raj Bhawan where 22 BJP MLAs were sworn in as ministers of the state government. Out of the 22 ministers inducted, 12 were sworn in as cabinet ministers, five took oath as ministers of state with independent charge and five as ministers of state. Former Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and senior BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena were also among the 12 MLAs sworn in as cabinet ministers in the Bhajan Lal Sharma-led government. Meena, Madan Dilawar, Rathore, Gajendra Singh Khimsar, Babulal Kharadi, Jogaram Patel, Suresh Singh Rawat, Avinash Gehlot, Joraram Kumawat, Hemant Meena, Kanhaiya Lal Choudhary and Sumit Godara were the MLAs inducted into the Rajasthan cabinet. Sanjay Sharma, Surendra Pal Singh TT, Jhabar Singh Kharra, Gautam Kumar, and Heeralal Nagar took oath as Ministers with Independent charge. Otaram Dewasi, Manju Baghmar, Vijay Singh Choudhary, KK Bishnoi, and Jawahar Singh Bedam were sworn in as ministers of state. Also read: Watch: Indian PM takes detour for tea, stops at welfare scheme beneficiary's home in Ayodhya Rajasthan BJP leader Rajendra Rathore during the cabinet expansion said, "The cabinet will represent all sections and will be able to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Rajasthan." Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma gets his team Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma finally got his team on Saturday with the swearing in of ministers. After BJP won the state assembly election, Bhajan Lal Sharma was sworn in as the chief minister of Rajasthan at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's top leadership on Dec 15. Sharma, former BJP state general secretary, took charge of the state on the day he turned 57. Along with him, Diya Kumari and Prem Chand Bairwa were sworn in as the deputy chief ministers by Governor Kalraj Mishra. All three took the oath in Hindi. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by PM Modi, BJP president J P Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and several other senior leaders of the party. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 22 MLAs take oath as ministers  in Rajasthan, 12 inducted into cabinet

As the world is set to ring in 2024, countries are ramping up security measures in order to ensure safe celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

France will deploy close to 90,000 police officers across the country, with 6,000 of them in Paris alone, for the weekend's New Year's celebrations due to the 'very high' terrorist threat.

"I have called for an extremely high turnout of police and security forces given the context of the very high terrorist threat due to, clearly, what is happening in Israel and in Palestine," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said&nbsp;on Friday (Dec 29).

He further added that for the very first time, the police officers would be permitted to make use of the drones as a part of the security efforts and that tens of thousands of firefighters would also be deployed along with 5,000 soldiers.

<h2>Germany: Authorities bar sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral</h2>

German authorities banned sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral during Christmas celebrations last and worshippers had to undergo security checks amid growing fears of attack.

Police said that they were taking stern measures to safeguard the iconic cathedral during New Year's celebrations.

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The precautionary security efforts are being made to prevent any possible attacks said officer in charge Martin Lotz.

"Even if the reference was to New Year's Eve, there are a lot of people in the area around the cathedral, today is Christmas Eve midnight Mass, it is one of the most visited cathedrals, and the main train station is nearby," said police spokesperson Wolfgang Baldes, as per Associated Press report.

“There are a lot of people, and that's why we said that if there was an indication, we would do everything necessary to protect people.”

Meanwhile, in Austria, the security was heightened around&nbsp;churches and Christmas markets in&nbsp;Vienna.

<h2>Authorities tighten security around Times Square, US</h2>

The FBI is setting up efforts to secure Times Square for visitors who are expected to attend the New Year's Eve celebrations.&nbsp;

Police officials will set up a perimeter from Sixth Avenue to Eighth and from 41st Street to 57th, as per CBS reports.

The New York City Police Department is also preparing for demonstrations near the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting in November.

"There's a protest every day in New York City, so there's certainly going to be a protest on New Year's Eve," said NYPD Intelligence Division Commanding Officer John Hart.

"Those who want to peacefully protest, have the right to do so. But you're not going to do it at the expense of disrupting those who are coming here to peacefully bring in the new year," Mayor Eric Adams said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As the world is set to ring in 2024, countries are ramping up security measures in order to ensure safe celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

As the world is set to ring in 2024, countries are ramping up security measures in order to ensure safe celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. France will deploy close to 90,000 police officers across the country, with 6,000 of them in Paris alone, for the weekend's New Year's celebrations due to the 'very high' terrorist threat. "I have called for an extremely high turnout of police and security forces given the context of the very high terrorist threat due to, clearly, what is happening in Israel and in Palestine," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (Dec 29). He further added that for the very first time, the police officers would be permitted to make use of the drones as a part of the security efforts and that tens of thousands of firefighters would also be deployed along with 5,000 soldiers. Germany: Authorities bar sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral German authorities banned sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral during Christmas celebrations last and worshippers had to undergo security checks amid growing fears of attack. Police said that they were taking stern measures to safeguard the iconic cathedral during New Year's celebrations. Also read: Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia The precautionary security efforts are being made to prevent any possible attacks said officer in charge Martin Lotz. "Even if the reference was to New Year's Eve, there are a lot of people in the area around the cathedral, today is Christmas Eve midnight Mass, it is one of the most visited cathedrals, and the main train station is nearby," said police spokesperson Wolfgang Baldes, as per Associated Press report. “There are a lot of people, and that's why we said that if there was an indication, we would do everything necessary to protect people.” Meanwhile, in Austria, the security was heightened around churches and Christmas markets in Vienna. Authorities tighten security around Times Square, US The FBI is setting up efforts to secure Times Square for visitors who are expected to attend the New Year's Eve celebrations. Police officials will set up a perimeter from Sixth Avenue to Eighth and from 41st Street to 57th, as per CBS reports. The New York City Police Department is also preparing for demonstrations near the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting in November. "There's a protest every day in New York City, so there's certainly going to be a protest on New Year's Eve," said NYPD Intelligence Division Commanding Officer John Hart. "Those who want to peacefully protest, have the right to do so. But you're not going to do it at the expense of disrupting those who are coming here to peacefully bring in the new year," Mayor Eric Adams said. (With inputs from agencies)

Global terror alert: Cities ramp up security measures for New Year celebrations amid 'high risk' of attacks

A heavy exchange of gunfire broke out between unidentified gunmen and police commandos in the northeast Indian state of Manipur on Saturday (Dec 30), said officials.

A commando was injured in the incident and is now being treated at an Assam Rifles camp.

The eyewitnesses said that the commando was wounded when the gunmen targeted police vehicles while they were heading towards the Key Location Point (KLP) from the border town of Moreh, as per news agency PTI.

"One commando sustained shrapnel injuries when they came under attack while crossing the M Chahnou village section of Imphal-Moreh road," an officer told PTI.

Police said, "Unidentified gunmen fired shots and threw bombs at the commando team of Moreh at Chikim Veng, Moreh Ward No. 9 in Tengnoupal district. The incident occurred while Manipur police commandos were conducting routine reconnaissance in the area."&nbsp;

"Initially, two bombs exploded, followed by 350 to 400 rounds of fire," police in its address to the media said.

Two houses in Moreh were also set on fire, sources told PTI.

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<h2>'Evil elements trying to disturb peace,' Manipur CM</h2>

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Saturday called on the people to scorn violence and engage in dialogue to restore peace in the state.

He also denounced the killing of a village guard by unidentified individuals in Kadangband, Imphal West district, claiming that evil elements were attempting to disrupt peace.

"A few evil elements are trying to disrupt the peace in the state. It's an unfortunate incident and we highly condemn the incident. The combing operation is on to nab the culprits. We won't spare the culprits," while addressing a press conference at the CM's secretariat, Singh said.

"Many civil society groups are trying hard to restore peace in the state. This fresh incident is highly condemnable," he added.

"Let's abandon violence, come to the negotiating table, and initiate a dialogue to restore normalcy," he further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A heavy exchange of gunfire broke out between unidentified gunmen and police commandos in the northeast Indian state of Manipur on Saturday (Dec 30), said officials.

A heavy exchange of gunfire broke out between unidentified gunmen and police commandos in the northeast Indian state of Manipur on Saturday (Dec 30), said officials. A commando was injured in the incident and is now being treated at an Assam Rifles camp. The eyewitnesses said that the commando was wounded when the gunmen targeted police vehicles while they were heading towards the Key Location Point (KLP) from the border town of Moreh, as per news agency PTI. "One commando sustained shrapnel injuries when they came under attack while crossing the M Chahnou village section of Imphal-Moreh road," an officer told PTI. Police said, "Unidentified gunmen fired shots and threw bombs at the commando team of Moreh at Chikim Veng, Moreh Ward No. 9 in Tengnoupal district. The incident occurred while Manipur police commandos were conducting routine reconnaissance in the area." "Initially, two bombs exploded, followed by 350 to 400 rounds of fire," police in its address to the media said. Two houses in Moreh were also set on fire, sources told PTI. Also read: Putin extends New Year wishes to President Droupadi Murmu, PM Narendra Modi 'Evil elements trying to disturb peace,' Manipur CM Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Saturday called on the people to scorn violence and engage in dialogue to restore peace in the state. He also denounced the killing of a village guard by unidentified individuals in Kadangband, Imphal West district, claiming that evil elements were attempting to disrupt peace. "A few evil elements are trying to disrupt the peace in the state. It's an unfortunate incident and we highly condemn the incident. The combing operation is on to nab the culprits. We won't spare the culprits," while addressing a press conference at the CM's secretariat, Singh said. "Many civil society groups are trying hard to restore peace in the state. This fresh incident is highly condemnable," he added. "Let's abandon violence, come to the negotiating table, and initiate a dialogue to restore normalcy," he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Unidentified gunmen target police commandos in Manipur's Moreh

A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30).

"According to updated information, 12 adults and two children were killed in Belgorod. Another 108 people, including 15 children, were injured," the ministry said.

Earlier, the ministry had reported the death toll as 10 which included nine adults and one child.

"Nine adults and one child were killed in Belgorod due to shelling by the Ukrainian army. 45 people were injured, including 4 children," Russia's emergencies ministry said.

Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, in a post on the social media platform Telegram said that a residential building was hit by the strike, further urging the residents to rush to air raid shelters as sirens blared across the city.

Belgorod, which is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Ukrainian border has like other Russian border zones suffered shelling and drone attacks all throughout the year that authorities have condemned Ukraine for.

As per the news agency AFP, unverified footage of the strike showed debris scattered across the street and smoke billowing from burnt-out cars in the city's centre.

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<h2>Putin briefed on strike</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been briefed about the Ukrainian strike, the Kremlin said.

"President Vladimir Putin has been informed about the Ukrainian armed forces' strike on residential neighbourhoods in Belgorod," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the TASS news agency.

Moscow also said that this act "would not go unpunished".

"This offence will not go unpunished," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement.

<h2>Russia&nbsp;seeking UN Security Council meeting on strike</h2>

Russia requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the Ukrainian strike on the city of Belgorod.

"We have requested a meeting of the Security Council on Belgorod for 15.00 New York time (2000 GMT) today, 30 December," Moscow's deputy permanent representative to the UN Dmitry Polyansky said.&nbsp;

The attack came after the Russian strikes killed at least 39 people just a day before.

Ukraine's military estimated Russia had launched 158 missiles and drones on Ukraine and 114 of them had been destroyed.

Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ignat told the news agency AFP that this was a "record number" of missiles and "the most massive missile attack" of the conflict, excluding the early days of constant bombardment.

"Work is still underway to eliminate the consequences of yesterday's Russian attack," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30).

A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30). "According to updated information, 12 adults and two children were killed in Belgorod. Another 108 people, including 15 children, were injured," the ministry said. Earlier, the ministry had reported the death toll as 10 which included nine adults and one child. "Nine adults and one child were killed in Belgorod due to shelling by the Ukrainian army. 45 people were injured, including 4 children," Russia's emergencies ministry said. Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, in a post on the social media platform Telegram said that a residential building was hit by the strike, further urging the residents to rush to air raid shelters as sirens blared across the city. Belgorod, which is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Ukrainian border has like other Russian border zones suffered shelling and drone attacks all throughout the year that authorities have condemned Ukraine for. As per the news agency AFP, unverified footage of the strike showed debris scattered across the street and smoke billowing from burnt-out cars in the city's centre. Also read: Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check' Putin briefed on strike Russian President Vladimir Putin has been briefed about the Ukrainian strike, the Kremlin said. "President Vladimir Putin has been informed about the Ukrainian armed forces' strike on residential neighbourhoods in Belgorod," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the TASS news agency. Moscow also said that this act "would not go unpunished". "This offence will not go unpunished," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement. Russia seeking UN Security Council meeting on strike Russia requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the Ukrainian strike on the city of Belgorod. "We have requested a meeting of the Security Council on Belgorod for 15.00 New York time (2000 GMT) today, 30 December," Moscow's deputy permanent representative to the UN Dmitry Polyansky said. The attack came after the Russian strikes killed at least 39 people just a day before. Ukraine's military estimated Russia had launched 158 missiles and drones on Ukraine and 114 of them had been destroyed. Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ignat told the news agency AFP that this was a "record number" of missiles and "the most massive missile attack" of the conflict, excluding the early days of constant bombardment. "Work is still underway to eliminate the consequences of yesterday's Russian attack," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia

Top Indian Songs On Billboard Charts This Week

This track from Animal by Harshavardhan Rameshwar has topped the charts this week.

This track by Bhupinder Babbal from film Animal is second on the list.

 The third on the list is this track by Vishal Mishra from Animal.

The track by band AUR is fourth on the list

This song by Arijit Singh from Animal is 5th on the list

Chaleya by Arijit Singh and Shilpa Rao from the film Jawan continues to rule the Billboard charts and is sixth on the list

In Pics | World gears up to ring in 2024

A US warship on Thursday (Dec 28) shot down a drone and an anti-ship ballistic projectile fired by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the US military said in a statement.

"The USS Mason (DDG 87) shot down one drone and one anti-ship ballistic missile in the Southern Red Sea that were fired by the Huthis," US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement, referring to a guided-missile destroyer.

"There was no damage to any of the 18 ships in the area or reported injuries," CENTCOM said, adding that it was the 22nd attempted attack on international shipping by the Huthis since mid-October.

The Houthi rebels have recently targeted vessels repeatedly in the Red Sea shipping lane amid the Israel-Hamas war in support of the Palestinians in the conflict-torn Gaza Strip.

The attacks are threatening a transit route that carries up to 12 per cent of global trade, pushing the United States to deploy a multinational naval task force earlier this month to shield Red Sea shipping.

The Treasury Department, in addition to the US military action, announced sanctions against a network believed to be involved in financing the Houthi attacks on Thursday (Dec 28).

The Treasury in a statement said that it had imposed sanctions against the chief of the Currency Exchangers Association in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, along with three exchanges in Yemen and Turkey who were responsible for "facilitating the flow of Iranian financial assistance" to the Houthis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/devastated-says-biden-as-70-year-old-american-hostage-confirmed-dead-674514">'Devastated', says Biden as 70-year-old American hostage confirmed dead</a>

The Houthi rebels say that they are targeting Israel and Israeli-linked vessels to push for a halt to the offensive in the besieged Palestinian enclave.

<h2>Spate of attacks</h2>

The Yemeni Houthis have launched a series of drone and projectile strikes targetting Israel-linked vessels after Israel started attacking&nbsp;Gaza following the Oct 7 incursion and killings by Hamas.&nbsp;

Nearly 200&nbsp;people were taken hostage in the attacks. &nbsp;

Israel in retaliation launched a counter-offensive that, as per the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, has killed at least 21,000 people, mostly women and children.

The Houthi rebels have threatened to attack any vessels heading to Israeli ports unless food and medicine are allowed into the war-torn Gaza Strip. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A US warship on Thursday (Dec 28) shot down a drone and an anti-ship ballistic projectile fired by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the US military said in a statement.

A US warship on Thursday (Dec 28) shot down a drone and an anti-ship ballistic projectile fired by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the US military said in a statement. "The USS Mason (DDG 87) shot down one drone and one anti-ship ballistic missile in the Southern Red Sea that were fired by the Huthis," US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement, referring to a guided-missile destroyer. "There was no damage to any of the 18 ships in the area or reported injuries," CENTCOM said, adding that it was the 22nd attempted attack on international shipping by the Huthis since mid-October. The Houthi rebels have recently targeted vessels repeatedly in the Red Sea shipping lane amid the Israel-Hamas war in support of the Palestinians in the conflict-torn Gaza Strip. The attacks are threatening a transit route that carries up to 12 per cent of global trade, pushing the United States to deploy a multinational naval task force earlier this month to shield Red Sea shipping. The Treasury Department, in addition to the US military action, announced sanctions against a network believed to be involved in financing the Houthi attacks on Thursday (Dec 28). The Treasury in a statement said that it had imposed sanctions against the chief of the Currency Exchangers Association in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, along with three exchanges in Yemen and Turkey who were responsible for "facilitating the flow of Iranian financial assistance" to the Houthis. Also read: 'Devastated', says Biden as 70-year-old American hostage confirmed dead The Houthi rebels say that they are targeting Israel and Israeli-linked vessels to push for a halt to the offensive in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Spate of attacks The Yemeni Houthis have launched a series of drone and projectile strikes targetting Israel-linked vessels after Israel started attacking Gaza following the Oct 7 incursion and killings by Hamas. Nearly 200 people were taken hostage in the attacks. Israel in retaliation launched a counter-offensive that, as per the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, has killed at least 21,000 people, mostly women and children. The Houthi rebels have threatened to attack any vessels heading to Israeli ports unless food and medicine are allowed into the war-torn Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

US warship shoots down drone, anti-ship ballistic missile fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels

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