The massive 'Devil Comet' that is hurling towards Earth and has experienced several explosive events this year has led scientists to find a pattern for its eruptions.

The researchers now saw that the massive comet is likely to 'blow' as the space rock appears to eject ice and gas every 15 days violently.&nbsp;

As per the astronomers, the cosmic object, which is also known as comet 12P, rotates for over two weeks, positioning its cryovolcanic vent toward the sun which then gets activated by heat.

The last such explosive event took place on Dec 14, making Dec 29 or 30 the next date for the eruption.

"It's like 'Old Faithful," Spaceweather.com quoted Richard Miles of the British Astronomical Association as saying.

"Comet 12P has a super cryogeyser, the eruption of which occurs after local sunrise at its location," he added.

<h2>Devil Comet with horns</h2>

Comet 12P is cryovolcanic, meaning it has an icy shell or nucleus filled with gas and ice. After the comet absorbs enough radiation from the sun, its cryomagma or frosty innards get superheated. The pressure increases inside the nucleus till the shell cracks and the icy guts of the comet spray into space.

After every eruption, the comet's dust and a fuzzy, reflective cloud of cryomagma expand and make it appear brighter to astronomers. Till now, the comet had three major eruptions. One took place on July 20 when it was seen exploding for the first time in 69 years and the other explosion happened on October 5 when the eruption was more vigorous; and the third on Halloween (October 31) which was a comparatively less intense outburst.

<h2>Why do horns appear on the comet?</h2>

Every time an explosion occurred on the comet, its coma took an irregular shape with a "dark lane" which made it appear to have grown a pair of horns. On November 14, the comet had another major eruption, which was the most extreme outburst till now.

Astronomers watched as the comet became more than 100 times brighter than normal for some days after its coma expanded, reported Spaceweather.com. However, this time they could not see its distinctive horns.

"The coma seems perfectly circular this time," said Nick James, director of the British Astronomical Association's (BAA) comet section, while speaking to Spaceweather.com.

(With inputs from agencies)

The massive 'Devil Comet' that is hurling towards Earth and has experienced several explosive events this year has led scientists to find a pattern for its eruptions.

The massive 'Devil Comet' that is hurling towards Earth and has experienced several explosive events this year has led scientists to find a pattern for its eruptions. The researchers now saw that the massive comet is likely to 'blow' as the space rock appears to eject ice and gas every 15 days violently. As per the astronomers, the cosmic object, which is also known as comet 12P, rotates for over two weeks, positioning its cryovolcanic vent toward the sun which then gets activated by heat. The last such explosive event took place on Dec 14, making Dec 29 or 30 the next date for the eruption. "It's like 'Old Faithful," Spaceweather.com quoted Richard Miles of the British Astronomical Association as saying. "Comet 12P has a super cryogeyser, the eruption of which occurs after local sunrise at its location," he added. Devil Comet with horns Comet 12P is cryovolcanic, meaning it has an icy shell or nucleus filled with gas and ice. After the comet absorbs enough radiation from the sun, its cryomagma or frosty innards get superheated. The pressure increases inside the nucleus till the shell cracks and the icy guts of the comet spray into space. After every eruption, the comet's dust and a fuzzy, reflective cloud of cryomagma expand and make it appear brighter to astronomers. Till now, the comet had three major eruptions. One took place on July 20 when it was seen exploding for the first time in 69 years and the other explosion happened on October 5 when the eruption was more vigorous; and the third on Halloween (October 31) which was a comparatively less intense outburst. Why do horns appear on the comet? Every time an explosion occurred on the comet, its coma took an irregular shape with a "dark lane" which made it appear to have grown a pair of horns. On November 14, the comet had another major eruption, which was the most extreme outburst till now. Astronomers watched as the comet became more than 100 times brighter than normal for some days after its coma expanded, reported Spaceweather.com. However, this time they could not see its distinctive horns. "The coma seems perfectly circular this time," said Nick James, director of the British Astronomical Association's (BAA) comet section, while speaking to Spaceweather.com. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive 'devil comet' with horns set for another eruption soon, say scientists

The Colorado Republican Party on Wednesday (Dec 27) urged the US Supreme Court to intervene after Colorado's topmost court barred Donald Trump from appearing on the state's primary ballot in 2024, said an attorney for the Republican group.

The appeal comes after the Colorado Supreme Court disqualified the former United States president over his involvement in the US Capitol riots.

The court banned Trump under a US constitutional provision which prohibits officials who engage in "insurrection or rebellion" from holding public office.&nbsp;

The representative of the Colorado Republican Party is Jay Sekulow from the conservative litigation firm the American Center for Law and Justice.

<h2>Michigan Supreme Court rejects attempt to ban former Trump from 2024 ballot</h2>

The Michigan Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 27) rejected an attempt to disqualify Trump from appearing on the state's Republican primary ballot in 2024 over his involvement in the Jan 6, 2021 storming of the US Capitol by his supporters.

This bid was the latest in a series of moves to bar Trump from appearing on ballots in multiple states under the 14th Amendment

However, Michigan's high court, in a brief ruling said that&nbsp;it was "not persuaded that the questions presented should be reviewed by this court" ahead of the state's February 27 presidential primary.

The ruling came almost a week after Colorado's Supreme Court disqualified Trump from the state's primary ballot over being involved in the Capitol riot which he has been accused of inciting.

Hailing the Michigan decision, Trump slammed the move calling it a "Desperate Democrat attempt" to frame a plot against him as he plans on running for US presidential elections scheduled in 2024.

"This pathetic gambit to rig the Election has failed all across the country, including in States that have historically leaned heavily toward the Democrats," he posted on Truth Social, his social media platform.

The Colorado Supreme Court had put a stay on its decision until January 4 stating that Trump would stay on the ballot if he appealed.

Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican 2024 presidential nomination, is expected to file his own appeal. &nbsp;

Granting the Colorado case for consideration would propel the country's top court into the centre of the presidential race, as any judgment it makes on whether Trump was involved in insurrection and on his eligibility could be binding on lower courts nationwide.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-modi-well-for-lok-sabha-elections-heres-what-it-means-for-india-russia-ties-674323">Vladimir Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means</a>

<h2>'Court's decision disappointing', says election lawyer Mark Brewer</h2>

The Michigan lawsuit was filed earlier in September this year by liberal-leaning Free Speech For People.

"The court's decision is disappointing but we will continue, at a later stage, to seek to uphold this critical constitutional provision designed to protect our republic," election lawyer Mark Brewer, who joined the group in the lawsuit, said in a statement.

"Trump led a rebellion and insurrection against the Constitution when he tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election and he is disqualified from ever seeking or holding public office again."

Justice Elizabeth Welch, who is out of the four Democratic-nominated justices on the seven-member panel, acknowledged the Colorado decision.

However, Welch said that the state's election law varied from Michigan's "in a material way" in requiring candidates to be "qualified" to run.

"The appellants have identified no analogous provision in the Michigan Election Law that requires someone seeking the office of President of the United States to attest to their legal qualification to hold the office," Welch said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Colorado Republican Party on Wednesday (Dec 27) urged the US Supreme Court to intervene after Colorado's topmost court barred Donald Trump from appearing on the state's primary ballot in 2024, said an attorney for the Republican group.

The Colorado Republican Party on Wednesday (Dec 27) urged the US Supreme Court to intervene after Colorado's topmost court barred Donald Trump from appearing on the state's primary ballot in 2024, said an attorney for the Republican group. The appeal comes after the Colorado Supreme Court disqualified the former United States president over his involvement in the US Capitol riots. The court banned Trump under a US constitutional provision which prohibits officials who engage in "insurrection or rebellion" from holding public office. The representative of the Colorado Republican Party is Jay Sekulow from the conservative litigation firm the American Center for Law and Justice. Michigan Supreme Court rejects attempt to ban former Trump from 2024 ballot The Michigan Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 27) rejected an attempt to disqualify Trump from appearing on the state's Republican primary ballot in 2024 over his involvement in the Jan 6, 2021 storming of the US Capitol by his supporters. This bid was the latest in a series of moves to bar Trump from appearing on ballots in multiple states under the 14th Amendment However, Michigan's high court, in a brief ruling said that it was "not persuaded that the questions presented should be reviewed by this court" ahead of the state's February 27 presidential primary. The ruling came almost a week after Colorado's Supreme Court disqualified Trump from the state's primary ballot over being involved in the Capitol riot which he has been accused of inciting. Hailing the Michigan decision, Trump slammed the move calling it a "Desperate Democrat attempt" to frame a plot against him as he plans on running for US presidential elections scheduled in 2024. "This pathetic gambit to rig the Election has failed all across the country, including in States that have historically leaned heavily toward the Democrats," he posted on Truth Social, his social media platform. The Colorado Supreme Court had put a stay on its decision until January 4 stating that Trump would stay on the ballot if he appealed. Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican 2024 presidential nomination, is expected to file his own appeal. Granting the Colorado case for consideration would propel the country's top court into the centre of the presidential race, as any judgment it makes on whether Trump was involved in insurrection and on his eligibility could be binding on lower courts nationwide. Also read: Vladimir Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means 'Court's decision disappointing', says election lawyer Mark Brewer The Michigan lawsuit was filed earlier in September this year by liberal-leaning Free Speech For People. "The court's decision is disappointing but we will continue, at a later stage, to seek to uphold this critical constitutional provision designed to protect our republic," election lawyer Mark Brewer, who joined the group in the lawsuit, said in a statement. "Trump led a rebellion and insurrection against the Constitution when he tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election and he is disqualified from ever seeking or holding public office again." Justice Elizabeth Welch, who is out of the four Democratic-nominated justices on the seven-member panel, acknowledged the Colorado decision. However, Welch said that the state's election law varied from Michigan's "in a material way" in requiring candidates to be "qualified" to run. "The appellants have identified no analogous provision in the Michigan Election Law that requires someone seeking the office of President of the United States to attest to their legal qualification to hold the office," Welch said. (With inputs from agencies)

Colorado Republicans seek intervention by US Supreme Court in Donald Trump's 2024 ballot disqualification

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rumoured goddaughter Ksenia Sobchak was reportedly one of the attendees at the controversial star-studded "almost-naked" party which has now triggered severe backlash in the country.

A journalist, socialite, and onetime presidential candidate, Sobchak said she had realised that being a part of the "almost-naked" party was not the right thing to do.

The scandalous event in Moscow's famed Mutabor nightclub saw celebrities dressed in raunchy costumes.

Famous rapper Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, attended the party wearing only a sock to hide his modesty.&nbsp;

He was later imprisoned for 15 days and fined for promoting "non-traditional sexual relations".

The other stars who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, faced cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals.&nbsp;

The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-star-studded-almost-naked-party-triggers-severe-backlash-heres-what-happened-674393">Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened</a>

<h2>Sobchak issues public apology</h2>

Sobchak, reacting to the controversy, issued a partial apology, while also seeking to defend the organiser of the party Ivleeva.

As per a Washington Post translation, she shared a post on her Telegram account a day after the backlash began, saying, "Where and when adults go with their butts naked is their personal business."

The post showcased the video of a woman wearing a sheer black dress.

A few days later, the footage of the party sparked public outrage after which Sobchak released another video saying that attending the party and sharing images online was not the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine.

"You always need to choose carefully the right time, and this is not the right time," she said.

“If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” she added. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.”

Sobchak is the daughter of Putin's former boss Anatoly Sobchak, the ex-mayor of St. Petersburg who passed away in 2000.

The controversial event has invited criticism from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups.

It has also angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rumoured goddaughter Ksenia Sobchak was reportedly one of the attendees at the controversial star-studded "almost-naked" party which has now triggered severe backlash in the country.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's rumoured goddaughter Ksenia Sobchak was reportedly one of the attendees at the controversial star-studded "almost-naked" party which has now triggered severe backlash in the country. A journalist, socialite, and onetime presidential candidate, Sobchak said she had realised that being a part of the "almost-naked" party was not the right thing to do. The scandalous event in Moscow's famed Mutabor nightclub saw celebrities dressed in raunchy costumes. Famous rapper Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, attended the party wearing only a sock to hide his modesty. He was later imprisoned for 15 days and fined for promoting "non-traditional sexual relations". The other stars who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, faced cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals. The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022. Also read: Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened Sobchak issues public apology Sobchak, reacting to the controversy, issued a partial apology, while also seeking to defend the organiser of the party Ivleeva. As per a Washington Post translation, she shared a post on her Telegram account a day after the backlash began, saying, "Where and when adults go with their butts naked is their personal business." The post showcased the video of a woman wearing a sheer black dress. A few days later, the footage of the party sparked public outrage after which Sobchak released another video saying that attending the party and sharing images online was not the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine. "You always need to choose carefully the right time, and this is not the right time," she said. “If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” she added. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.” Sobchak is the daughter of Putin's former boss Anatoly Sobchak, the ex-mayor of St. Petersburg who passed away in 2000. The controversial event has invited criticism from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups. It has also angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Putin's rumoured goddaughter issues apology after attending ‘almost naked’ party

A star-studded party in Russia recently sparked outrage after videos of scantily clad celebrities took the internet by storm. The event, being described as "almost-naked", also had a rapper attending with only a sock to hide his modesty, who has now been imprisoned for 15 days.

A star-studded party in Russia recently sparked outrage after videos of scantily clad celebrities took the internet by storm. The event, being described as "almost-naked", also had a rapper attending with only a sock to hide his modesty, who has now been imprisoned for 15 days. Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, was jailed and fined for endorsing "non-traditional sexual relations". The other stars, who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, now face cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals. Held at a nightclub in Moscow on Dec 21, the party also led to the termination of contracts with some of Russia's renowned entertainers. The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × “Everyone was having a good time, no one could imagine what a mess this would all become,” the Guardian quoted a person who attended the party as saying. Wartime backlash The footage of the party spread like fire across Russian social media applications, triggering severe backlash in the country, especially among pro-war commentators and nationalist officials, and also reportedly left President Vladimir Putin unimpressed. A video clip of Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, being briefed about the party by one of the attending celebrities has been doing rounds on the internet. As per Baza, a news outlet which is known to have connections with security service officials, the troops fighting in Ukraine were among the first to express displeasure on viewing the footage. Peskov, on Wednesday (Dec 28), refrained from publicly commenting on the burgeoning scandal on being asked about it by reporters. "Let you and I be the only ones in the country who aren't discussing this topic," he said. Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, commenting on the event, said that it had "stained" the ones who attended it. She, however, noted that the controversy had also provided an opportunity for the attendees to reflect and work upon themselves, as per the Ura.ru news outlet. “There is a war going on in the country, but these beasts, scum are organising all this, these brutes who don’t care what’s going on,” said Vladimir Solovyov, Russia’s most prominent television propagandist, in a Telegram post, as per the Guardian. Also read: Ghost ships at North Korean port sends alarm bells ringing for Ukraine The controversial event and the criticism it has invited from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups, has since then taken over the major headlines replacing stories about the surge in prices of staples like eggs and inflation. Celebrities issue public apology After rapper Vacio was sentenced to 15-day-imprisonment under the charges of “gay propaganda” law, many celebs who attended the party issued public apologies. Russia’s king of pop, Filipp Kirkorov, on Tuesday (Dec 26), begged for forgiveness. “There are moments in everyone’s life when you walk through the wrong door,” he said. He added: “In these difficult times, heroic times, an artist of my calibre, a people’s artist, cannot and should not be so irresponsible when participating in various events.” Ksenia Sobchak, who is also the rumoured goddaughter of Putin, said that she had realised that being a part of such an event and sharing images online wasn't the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine. “If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” Sobchak said. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.” Russian Eurovision veteran Dima Bilan said he “couldn’t know in advance what the other guests would be wearing”. The party's organiser, Anastasia (Nastya) Ivleeva, also issued two public apology videos. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × In the second video, which she released on Wednesday (Dec 27), she expressed regret over her actions saying that she deserved the treatment she was getting from people across the country but hoped people could give her a second chance. “They say that Russia knows how to forgive. If so, I would like to ask you, the people, for a second chance,” she said in her video apology on Wednesday. “If the answer is no, then I’m ready for my public execution. I won’t shy away. I’m ready for any outcome.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × Ivleeva had grabbed headlines after she wore jewellery worth 23 million roubles ($251,000) at a time when Russians were struggling to get by. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × Event angers Russians who back war in Ukraine The controversy has angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. "To hold such events at a time when our guys are dying in the (Ukrainian) special military operation and many children are losing their fathers is cynical," said Yekaterina Mizulina, director of Russia's League for a Safe Internet, a body founded with the authorities support. "Our soldiers on the front line are definitely not fighting for this." As per the news agency Reuters, a woman whose nephew lost both his legs in the war against Kyiv wrote in a posting on social media that the celebrities who attended the party should pay for prosthetic legs for her relative. "That would be a better apology," the unidentified woman wrote. Meanwhile, some call the scandal a part of Russia's bid to endorse its "traditional values". “Moscow has become similar to Chechnya: public apologies from party participants trembling with fear, tax audits, the prospect of criminal cases,” wrote Alexander Rodnyansky, a Ukrainian producer, on Instagram. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened

Miracles do happen and this incident is a testament to it!

Two fishermen who were scouting for fishing holes in Northwest Indiana in the US came across a driver who was trapped inside his truck for almost six days underneath a highway bridge after it crashed off Interstate 94.

Mario Garcia and his son-in-law Nivardo De La Torre were waiting for their wives, looking out for potential fishing holes when they found 27-year-old Matthew Reum, who was stuck in his truck and had sustained severe injuries in the aftermath of a fatal vehicle crash.

As per local media reports, Garcia said that as he saw the mangled truck, he attempted to move the airbag away when Reum "woke up".

"He tried yelling and screaming, but nobody would hear him," Garcia recalled Reum telling him.

"It was just quiet - just the sound of the water."

Reum after being rescued was rushed to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, CBS reported quoting Indiana State Police Sgt Glen Fifield.

"Had it not been for the two individuals that were walking the creek this afternoon, this incident more than likely would have had a different outcome," police said.

"There had not been any prior reports of a crash in this area prior to the fishermen finding the vehicle," the officials further added.

The rescuers said that they were glad they came across Reum and his life was saved.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-greek-compromise-for-parthenon-marbles-athens-agrees-to-give-away-its-greatest-treasures-to-britain-674340">Great Greek compromise for Parthenon marbles? Athens agrees to give away its 'greatest treasures' to Britain</a>

"It's cold tonight and I don't believe he would've made it through the night tonight," said Fifield. "That's my personal opinion."

"He said to me that he's been there for a long time; that he had almost lost all hope - because nobody was there," said Garcia.

<h2>Reum has part of leg amputated</h2>

After the massive rescue effort, part of Reum's left leg was amputated on Wednesday morning (Dec 28) and has been in intensive care, reported NBC.

"We were able to speak with him last night, we are thankful Matt is alive and grateful for the men who found him," said the union Reum works with, in a statement. &nbsp;

"Matt’s strong will and toughness speak volumes through this ordeal. Matt has been a Boilermaker since 2015 originally a member of Boilermakers Local 455 in Tennessee and transferred into Boilermakers Local 374 in 2021 when he moved to the South Bend area. He is a welder among many other things and a very good asset to his trade. Since I have known Matt, he has always been a positive, kind, and energetic person. We will continue to pray and support our brother as he begins his recovery. We thank God that Matt is still with us."

(With inputs from agencies)

Miracles do happen and this incident is a testament to it! Two fishermen who were scouting for fishing holes in Northwest Indiana in the US came across a driver who was trapped inside his truck for almost six days underneath a highway bridge after it crashed off Interstate 94.

Miracles do happen and this incident is a testament to it! Two fishermen who were scouting for fishing holes in Northwest Indiana in the US came across a driver who was trapped inside his truck for almost six days underneath a highway bridge after it crashed off Interstate 94. Mario Garcia and his son-in-law Nivardo De La Torre were waiting for their wives, looking out for potential fishing holes when they found 27-year-old Matthew Reum, who was stuck in his truck and had sustained severe injuries in the aftermath of a fatal vehicle crash. As per local media reports, Garcia said that as he saw the mangled truck, he attempted to move the airbag away when Reum "woke up". "He tried yelling and screaming, but nobody would hear him," Garcia recalled Reum telling him. "It was just quiet - just the sound of the water." Reum after being rescued was rushed to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, CBS reported quoting Indiana State Police Sgt Glen Fifield. "Had it not been for the two individuals that were walking the creek this afternoon, this incident more than likely would have had a different outcome," police said. "There had not been any prior reports of a crash in this area prior to the fishermen finding the vehicle," the officials further added. The rescuers said that they were glad they came across Reum and his life was saved. Also read: Great Greek compromise for Parthenon marbles? Athens agrees to give away its 'greatest treasures' to Britain "It's cold tonight and I don't believe he would've made it through the night tonight," said Fifield. "That's my personal opinion." "He said to me that he's been there for a long time; that he had almost lost all hope - because nobody was there," said Garcia. Reum has part of leg amputated After the massive rescue effort, part of Reum's left leg was amputated on Wednesday morning (Dec 28) and has been in intensive care, reported NBC. "We were able to speak with him last night, we are thankful Matt is alive and grateful for the men who found him," said the union Reum works with, in a statement. "Matt’s strong will and toughness speak volumes through this ordeal. Matt has been a Boilermaker since 2015 originally a member of Boilermakers Local 455 in Tennessee and transferred into Boilermakers Local 374 in 2021 when he moved to the South Bend area. He is a welder among many other things and a very good asset to his trade. Since I have known Matt, he has always been a positive, kind, and energetic person. We will continue to pray and support our brother as he begins his recovery. We thank God that Matt is still with us." (With inputs from agencies)

US: Driver found alive almost 6 days after being trapped in wrecked truck

Mexican and US officials have agreed to work together more closely to tackle record migration at their shared border, the countries' governments said in a joint statement on Thursday, a day after high-level talks on stemming record numbers.

Following a visit to Mexico by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the countries said they would seek to strengthen a sponsorship initiative for Venezuelan, Cuban, Nicaraguan and Haitian migrants and look to tackle the root causes of migration.

The delegations, who are set to meet again in Washington next month, also discussed regularizing the situation of beneficiaries of the U.S. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program - the so-called Dreamers who were brought into the country illegally as children - and long-time undocumented Hispanic migrants living in the United States.

The talks came after the U.S. temporarily shuttered some border crossings to redeploy agents toward enforcement, sparking a trade slowdown and criticism by Republicans of the Biden administration's border policies. Immigration and the border are expected to be top issues in the U.S. 2024 elections, where President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is running for a second term.

Earlier Thursday, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the two parties had agreed to keep border crossings open after the temporary closures.

"This agreement has been reached, the rail crossings and the border bridges are already being opened to normalize the situation," Lopez Obrador told a morning press conference.

Lopez Obrador said Wednesday's meetings with the U.S. delegation were "direct," and he praised the Biden administration's relationship with Mexico.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-spy-balloon-used-american-internet-provider-to-communicate-us-intelligence-officials-674610">Chinese spy balloon used American internet provider to communicate: US intelligence officials</a>

<h2>'Faith in God'</h2>

More than half a million migrants this year crossed the dangerous Darien Gap jungle connecting South America with Central America – double last year's record – with many fleeing crime, poverty and conflict to seek better prospects in the United States.

The latest of a series of caravans of migrants and asylum seekers, many with small children, is slowly walking across southern Mexico, heading towards the U.S border. Lopez Obrador estimated that the caravan counts some 1,500 people but some activists and local media have put the figure at 7,000.

"We have to have faith in God," Honduran migrant Marvin Mejias said as he travelled with his son, who has had foot surgery. Mejias said he hoped the governments had reached a deal which would help him enter the U.S. and be able to work there.

Lopez Obrador said the issue of fentanyl, a powerful and deadly opioid that Mexican cartels have been trafficking into the U.S., was "hardly discussed" in Wednesday's meeting.

The United States has been pressing Mexico to do more to combat fentanyl trafficking, while Mexico has been pushing for stronger U.S. controls to prevent U.S. firearms from reaching the powerful cartels.

Mexican and US officials have agreed to work together more closely to tackle record migration at their shared border, the countries' governments said in a joint statement on Thursday, a day after high-level talks on stemming record numbers.

Mexican and US officials have agreed to work together more closely to tackle record migration at their shared border, the countries' governments said in a joint statement on Thursday, a day after high-level talks on stemming record numbers. Following a visit to Mexico by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the countries said they would seek to strengthen a sponsorship initiative for Venezuelan, Cuban, Nicaraguan and Haitian migrants and look to tackle the root causes of migration. The delegations, who are set to meet again in Washington next month, also discussed regularizing the situation of beneficiaries of the U.S. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program - the so-called Dreamers who were brought into the country illegally as children - and long-time undocumented Hispanic migrants living in the United States. The talks came after the U.S. temporarily shuttered some border crossings to redeploy agents toward enforcement, sparking a trade slowdown and criticism by Republicans of the Biden administration's border policies. Immigration and the border are expected to be top issues in the U.S. 2024 elections, where President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is running for a second term. Earlier Thursday, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the two parties had agreed to keep border crossings open after the temporary closures. "This agreement has been reached, the rail crossings and the border bridges are already being opened to normalize the situation," Lopez Obrador told a morning press conference. Lopez Obrador said Wednesday's meetings with the U.S. delegation were "direct," and he praised the Biden administration's relationship with Mexico. Also read: Chinese spy balloon used American internet provider to communicate: US intelligence officials 'Faith in God' More than half a million migrants this year crossed the dangerous Darien Gap jungle connecting South America with Central America – double last year's record – with many fleeing crime, poverty and conflict to seek better prospects in the United States. The latest of a series of caravans of migrants and asylum seekers, many with small children, is slowly walking across southern Mexico, heading towards the U.S border. Lopez Obrador estimated that the caravan counts some 1,500 people but some activists and local media have put the figure at 7,000. "We have to have faith in God," Honduran migrant Marvin Mejias said as he travelled with his son, who has had foot surgery. Mejias said he hoped the governments had reached a deal which would help him enter the U.S. and be able to work there. Lopez Obrador said the issue of fentanyl, a powerful and deadly opioid that Mexican cartels have been trafficking into the U.S., was "hardly discussed" in Wednesday's meeting. The United States has been pressing Mexico to do more to combat fentanyl trafficking, while Mexico has been pushing for stronger U.S. controls to prevent U.S. firearms from reaching the powerful cartels.

US, Mexico agree to strengthen efforts to curb record migration

Judith Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old US-Israeli, who was earlier believed to be the oldest woman held captive by Hamas, was actually killed by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7, the day it launched a massive attack against Israel.

Kibbutz Nir Oz, where she was taking a walk with her husband on the morning of the attack, announced her demise on Thursday.

While sharing the tragic development, US President Joe Biden said that he was utterly "devastated" by Weinstein's passing and that Washington will "not stop working" with its ally Israel to bring the remaining hostages home.

"This tragic development cuts deep, coming on the heels of last week’s news that Judith’s beloved husband, Gad Haggai, is believed to have been killed by Hamas," Biden said in a statement, vowing to continue attempting for the release of other hostages still held by Hamas.

Six days back, the kibbutz had announced that her husband&nbsp;was killed on Oct&nbsp;7 after which the Hamas militants took his body&nbsp;to Gaza.&nbsp;Judith Weinstein's body is also being held in Gaza.

Weinstein was an Israeli,&nbsp;American and Canadian national. She was the last missing Canadian from the Oct 7 attack. Last week, Biden informed that her husband, Gadi Haggai, 73, was killed on Oct. 7.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Ottawa also mourned the tragic passing of Weinstein.&nbsp;

Biden, recalling what the couple's daughter and the family members of other Americans held hostage in Gaza told him when he met with them earlier this month, said that no family should ever go through such an ordeal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-several-killed-in-strike-near-south-gaza-hospital-un-asks-israel-to-end-unlawful-killings-674387">Israel-Hamas war: UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’ in West Bank</a>

"They have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal," Biden said.

<h2>Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid</h2>

Biden and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Tuesday (Dec 26) held talks discussing the need to release hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza and also the efforts to boost humanitarian aid.

"The two leaders discussed the urgent effort to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens," the White House readout said, adding they also talked about increasing access to aid.

The Qatari State News Agency said that Biden and the emir had a telephonic discussion where the two spoke about the latest developments in the West Bank and also about the joint mediation efforts to calm the ongoing upsurge of violence in the besieged Palestinian enclave in order to reach a permanent ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Judith Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old US-Israeli, who was earlier believed to be the oldest woman held captive by Hamas, was actually killed by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7, the day it launched a massive attack against Israel.

Judith Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old US-Israeli, who was earlier believed to be the oldest woman held captive by Hamas, was actually killed by the Palestinian militant group on Oct 7, the day it launched a massive attack against Israel. Kibbutz Nir Oz, where she was taking a walk with her husband on the morning of the attack, announced her demise on Thursday. While sharing the tragic development, US President Joe Biden said that he was utterly "devastated" by Weinstein's passing and that Washington will "not stop working" with its ally Israel to bring the remaining hostages home. "This tragic development cuts deep, coming on the heels of last week’s news that Judith’s beloved husband, Gad Haggai, is believed to have been killed by Hamas," Biden said in a statement, vowing to continue attempting for the release of other hostages still held by Hamas. Six days back, the kibbutz had announced that her husband was killed on Oct 7 after which the Hamas militants took his body to Gaza. Judith Weinstein's body is also being held in Gaza. Weinstein was an Israeli, American and Canadian national. She was the last missing Canadian from the Oct 7 attack. Last week, Biden informed that her husband, Gadi Haggai, 73, was killed on Oct. 7. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Ottawa also mourned the tragic passing of Weinstein. Biden, recalling what the couple's daughter and the family members of other Americans held hostage in Gaza told him when he met with them earlier this month, said that no family should ever go through such an ordeal. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’ in West Bank "They have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal," Biden said. Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid Biden and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Tuesday (Dec 26) held talks discussing the need to release hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza and also the efforts to boost humanitarian aid. "The two leaders discussed the urgent effort to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens," the White House readout said, adding they also talked about increasing access to aid. The Qatari State News Agency said that Biden and the emir had a telephonic discussion where the two spoke about the latest developments in the West Bank and also about the joint mediation efforts to calm the ongoing upsurge of violence in the besieged Palestinian enclave in order to reach a permanent ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

'Devastated', says Biden as 70-year-old American woman is confirmed dead in Oct 7 attack

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations,&nbsp;stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial.

Jaishankar at a joint press briefing with Lavrov said that both sides had a "very good session of talks".

“I think today what clearly came out was that India-Russia relations remain very steady, remain very strong, they are based on our strategic convergence, on our geopolitical interests, and because they are mutually beneficial,” he said.

“For us, Russia is a valued partner, a time-tested partner. It is a relationship from which both India and Russia have benefitted enormously,” Jaishankar said while responding to a question.

“My presence here today and the fact that all the developments that I have pointed out including our growing trade, investments, our military-technical cooperation, our connectivity projects, I think all of this will give you a good sense of the importance and value that we attach to the relationship,” he added.

Talking about the North-South transport corridor, Jaishankar said that it was in the interest&nbsp;of the entire global economy. “It is in our interest and not just in our interest, I think in the interest of the global economy that this corridor progresses. And we will give it the highest priority,” he said responding to another question.

<h2>India-Russia trade exceeds USD 50 billion</h2>

Jaishankar, further highlighting the significant progress made, said that the bilateral trade had surpassed USD 50 billion.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-foreign-minister-jaishankar-meets-russian-president-vladimir-putin-in-moscow-674123">Putin discusses trade, Ukraine war with Jaishankar, invites 'friend' PM Modi to Russia</a>

He also emphasised the potential for further growth and the need to provide trade ties with a more sustainable character.

“We appreciate the fact that our trade is at an all-time high. We crossed $50 billion turnover last year. We expect to exceed that this year. And what is important is that this trade is more balanced. It is sustainable, and it provides for fair market access,” Jaishankar said.

He further said that the&nbsp;two countries also discussed cooperation in their relationship with the Russian Far East.

He said that he expects a delegation from the Far East to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January.

“We discussed long-term arrangements. We are today, in our trade, energy, fertilizers, and cooking coal are very big components of that. How do we reach long-term arrangements in that regard was a big part of our discussion. We discussed mutual investments, and the need to progress on a bilateral investment treaty,” he said.

“We spoke about railways yesterday, about industrial zone infrastructure. And we have agreed that the negotiations between India and the Eurasian Economic Union for a free trade agreement will be resumed in the second half of January this year,” he said, referring to his meeting with the co-chair of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-microsoft-sued-by-new-york-times-for-use-of-stories-to-train-chatbots-674120">OpenAI, Microsoft sued by New York Times for use of its stories to train their chatbots</a>

He also underlined the discussions held taking into consideration Indian investments in Russia, in oil and gas, which he said India was seeking to expand.

“We also spoke about connectivity; connectivity from western India through the International North-South Transport Corridor. Also connectivity from eastern India, from Chennai to Vladivostok and the polar route. We discussed various related areas where India’s polar capabilities could be enhanced in collaboration with Russia,” he added.

He then said that civil aviation and tourism were also touched upon during the discussions between both sides. “We would like to see more Russian tourists in India. We have increased the number of flights from India every week, from 52 to 64. We are open to increasing it further.”

<h2>Good to see India-Russia ties progressing consistently, says Lavrov&nbsp;</h2>

Lavrov said that the ties between both countries are based on mutual respect and that it was good to see that the relations were consistently making progress.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to our Indian counterparts for their aspiration to take a responsible approach in considering and resolving regional and global issues, primarily focusing on national interests, the interests of equal and fair international cooperation. This approach is also characteristic of India’s position on the ongoing processes in and around Ukraine, and we have also talked about it,” Lavrov said.

He further lauded India's G20 presidency, adding that Russia backed India’s candidacy for the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

“The New Delhi G20 Summit that took place last year was a true triumph of India’s foreign policy; it was a triumph of multilateral diplomacy, which has become possible, to a decisive degree, because the G20 Chair did not allow making the outcome document unilateral. The outcome document reflects the balance of interests,” he said.

Jaishankar, earlier on Wednesday (Dec 27), held wide-ranging talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow where he said that the relations between both countries reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit.

Jaishankar and Lavrov also exchanged views on the Indo-Pacific region, conflict in Ukraine, the ongoing situation in Gaza, &nbsp;Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, G20 and UN-related matters.

"A wide-ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. As strategic partners, (we) discussed the international situation and contemporary issues," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

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A wide ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. 
 
As strategic partners, discussed the international situation and contemporary issues. Exchanged views on Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation , Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, SCO, G20 and… <a href="https://t.co/Uk9VTbZm5y">pic.twitter.com/Uk9VTbZm5y</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1740000058618024124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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He further said that both sides&nbsp;noted the progress in economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity efforts, military-technical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.

“Signed Protocol on Consultations for the period 2024-28. India-Russia relations reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations, stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations, stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial. Jaishankar at a joint press briefing with Lavrov said that both sides had a "very good session of talks". “I think today what clearly came out was that India-Russia relations remain very steady, remain very strong, they are based on our strategic convergence, on our geopolitical interests, and because they are mutually beneficial,” he said. “For us, Russia is a valued partner, a time-tested partner. It is a relationship from which both India and Russia have benefitted enormously,” Jaishankar said while responding to a question. “My presence here today and the fact that all the developments that I have pointed out including our growing trade, investments, our military-technical cooperation, our connectivity projects, I think all of this will give you a good sense of the importance and value that we attach to the relationship,” he added. Talking about the North-South transport corridor, Jaishankar said that it was in the interest of the entire global economy. “It is in our interest and not just in our interest, I think in the interest of the global economy that this corridor progresses. And we will give it the highest priority,” he said responding to another question. India-Russia trade exceeds USD 50 billion Jaishankar, further highlighting the significant progress made, said that the bilateral trade had surpassed USD 50 billion. Also read: Putin discusses trade, Ukraine war with Jaishankar, invites 'friend' PM Modi to Russia He also emphasised the potential for further growth and the need to provide trade ties with a more sustainable character. “We appreciate the fact that our trade is at an all-time high. We crossed $50 billion turnover last year. We expect to exceed that this year. And what is important is that this trade is more balanced. It is sustainable, and it provides for fair market access,” Jaishankar said. He further said that the two countries also discussed cooperation in their relationship with the Russian Far East. He said that he expects a delegation from the Far East to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January. “We discussed long-term arrangements. We are today, in our trade, energy, fertilizers, and cooking coal are very big components of that. How do we reach long-term arrangements in that regard was a big part of our discussion. We discussed mutual investments, and the need to progress on a bilateral investment treaty,” he said. “We spoke about railways yesterday, about industrial zone infrastructure. And we have agreed that the negotiations between India and the Eurasian Economic Union for a free trade agreement will be resumed in the second half of January this year,” he said, referring to his meeting with the co-chair of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, on Tuesday. Also read: OpenAI, Microsoft sued by New York Times for use of its stories to train their chatbots He also underlined the discussions held taking into consideration Indian investments in Russia, in oil and gas, which he said India was seeking to expand. “We also spoke about connectivity; connectivity from western India through the International North-South Transport Corridor. Also connectivity from eastern India, from Chennai to Vladivostok and the polar route. We discussed various related areas where India’s polar capabilities could be enhanced in collaboration with Russia,” he added. He then said that civil aviation and tourism were also touched upon during the discussions between both sides. “We would like to see more Russian tourists in India. We have increased the number of flights from India every week, from 52 to 64. We are open to increasing it further.” Good to see India-Russia ties progressing consistently, says Lavrov Lavrov said that the ties between both countries are based on mutual respect and that it was good to see that the relations were consistently making progress. “We express our heartfelt gratitude to our Indian counterparts for their aspiration to take a responsible approach in considering and resolving regional and global issues, primarily focusing on national interests, the interests of equal and fair international cooperation. This approach is also characteristic of India’s position on the ongoing processes in and around Ukraine, and we have also talked about it,” Lavrov said. He further lauded India's G20 presidency, adding that Russia backed India’s candidacy for the UN Security Council. “The New Delhi G20 Summit that took place last year was a true triumph of India’s foreign policy; it was a triumph of multilateral diplomacy, which has become possible, to a decisive degree, because the G20 Chair did not allow making the outcome document unilateral. The outcome document reflects the balance of interests,” he said. Jaishankar, earlier on Wednesday (Dec 27), held wide-ranging talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow where he said that the relations between both countries reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit. Jaishankar and Lavrov also exchanged views on the Indo-Pacific region, conflict in Ukraine, the ongoing situation in Gaza, Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, G20 and UN-related matters. "A wide-ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. As strategic partners, (we) discussed the international situation and contemporary issues," Jaishankar said in a post on X. A wide ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. As strategic partners, discussed the international situation and contemporary issues. Exchanged views on Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation , Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, SCO, G20 and… pic.twitter.com/Uk9VTbZm5y — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 27, 2023 × He further said that both sides noted the progress in economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity efforts, military-technical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. “Signed Protocol on Consultations for the period 2024-28. India-Russia relations reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner'

India saw a single-day surge of 702 COVID-19 cases,&nbsp;with the number of active cases rising to 4,097, the health ministry said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 28).

Six deaths have been reported in the country in the last 24 hours: two from Maharashtra and one each from Karnataka, Kerala, West Bengal and Delhi, news agency PTI reported citing health ministry's data updated at 8 am local time.

The country had recorded 752 new cases on Dec 22.

The number of daily cases had fallen to double-digits at the beginning of this month. However, they shot up again after the emergence of a new coronavirus variant and cold weather conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/actor-and-dmdk-founder-leader-vijayakanth-dies-at-71-674189">Actor, DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies after testing positive for Covid</a>

<h2>Genome sequencing ordered for detection of JN.1 variant, says Delhi health minister</h2>

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Thursday said that he has restated directions to carry out genome sequencing of patients who have tested positive for coronavirus in order to detect the JN.1 variant.

He said that the government had accelerated Covid testing with 636 tests conducted on Wednesday. "I have reiterated the directions for genome sequencing of all the positive cases so that the number of cases of new variants can be confirmed. Yesterday, three were confirmed, of which two were of the old Omicron variant and the new one is the JN.1 variant. The good thing is that the patient diagnosed with the new variant, who was hospitalised, has been discharged," he told PTI Video.

He said that four patients were at present admitted to the hospital.

India's capital Delhi, meanwhile, reported its first case of the JN.1 variant.

With this, the total count of COVID-19 cases detected in India since its outbreak in Jan 2020 has reached 4,50,10,944, with an increase of 702 cases in a span of 24 hours.

The total death toll due to coronavirus cases in India has risen to 5,33,346, reflecting an increase of six deaths in the last 24 hours.

(With inputs from agencies)

India saw a single-day surge of 702 COVID-19 cases, with the number of active cases rising to 4,097, the health ministry said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 28).

India saw a single-day surge of 702 COVID-19 cases, with the number of active cases rising to 4,097, the health ministry said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 28). Six deaths have been reported in the country in the last 24 hours: two from Maharashtra and one each from Karnataka, Kerala, West Bengal and Delhi, news agency PTI reported citing health ministry's data updated at 8 am local time. The country had recorded 752 new cases on Dec 22. The number of daily cases had fallen to double-digits at the beginning of this month. However, they shot up again after the emergence of a new coronavirus variant and cold weather conditions. Also read: Actor, DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies after testing positive for Covid Genome sequencing ordered for detection of JN.1 variant, says Delhi health minister Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Thursday said that he has restated directions to carry out genome sequencing of patients who have tested positive for coronavirus in order to detect the JN.1 variant. He said that the government had accelerated Covid testing with 636 tests conducted on Wednesday. "I have reiterated the directions for genome sequencing of all the positive cases so that the number of cases of new variants can be confirmed. Yesterday, three were confirmed, of which two were of the old Omicron variant and the new one is the JN.1 variant. The good thing is that the patient diagnosed with the new variant, who was hospitalised, has been discharged," he told PTI Video. He said that four patients were at present admitted to the hospital. India's capital Delhi, meanwhile, reported its first case of the JN.1 variant. With this, the total count of COVID-19 cases detected in India since its outbreak in Jan 2020 has reached 4,50,10,944, with an increase of 702 cases in a span of 24 hours. The total death toll due to coronavirus cases in India has risen to 5,33,346, reflecting an increase of six deaths in the last 24 hours. (With inputs from agencies)

India Covid update: 6 deaths, 702 new cases in 24 hours, total active cases at 4,097

The Juno spacecraft is set to make a historic flyby of Jupiter’s moon Io which is the closest encounter that any mission has had in over two decades.

The fly-past is expected to allow Juno to collect significant data to determine its mysterious activities in space.

“By combining data from this flyby with our previous observations, the Juno science team is studying how Io’s volcanoes vary,” said Juno’s principal investigator, Scott Bolton of the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. “We are looking for how often they erupt, how bright and hot they are, how the shape of the lava flow changes, and how Io’s activity is connected to the flow of charged particles in Jupiter’s magnetosphere.”

Juno is expected to make its pass on Saturday (Dec 30), coming within roughly 930 miles (1,500 kilometres) from the surface of the Jovian moon, according to NASA.&nbsp;

The spacecraft has been closely observing Io’s volcanic activity from distances ranging between 6,830 miles (11,000 kilometres) to over 62,100 miles (100,000 kilometres) during its previous encounters in the month of May as well as July.

It has also shared the very first views of the north and south poles of the moons.

The spacecraft has also performed close flybys of Jupiter’s icy moons Ganymede and Europa.

“With our pair of close flybys in December and February, Juno will investigate the source of Io’s massive volcanic activity, whether a magma ocean exists underneath its crust, and the importance of tidal forces from Jupiter, which are relentlessly squeezing this tortured moon,” said Bolton.

The next close flyby of Io is due to take place on Feb 3, 2024, in which Juno is set to appear within about 930 miles (1,500 kilometres) of the surface.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Juno spacecraft is set to make a historic flyby of Jupiter’s moon Io which is the closest encounter that any mission has had in over two decades. The fly-past is expected to allow Juno to collect significant data to determine its mysterious activities in space.

The Juno spacecraft is set to make a historic flyby of Jupiter’s moon Io which is the closest encounter that any mission has had in over two decades. The fly-past is expected to allow Juno to collect significant data to determine its mysterious activities in space. “By combining data from this flyby with our previous observations, the Juno science team is studying how Io’s volcanoes vary,” said Juno’s principal investigator, Scott Bolton of the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. “We are looking for how often they erupt, how bright and hot they are, how the shape of the lava flow changes, and how Io’s activity is connected to the flow of charged particles in Jupiter’s magnetosphere.” Juno is expected to make its pass on Saturday (Dec 30), coming within roughly 930 miles (1,500 kilometres) from the surface of the Jovian moon, according to NASA. The spacecraft has been closely observing Io’s volcanic activity from distances ranging between 6,830 miles (11,000 kilometres) to over 62,100 miles (100,000 kilometres) during its previous encounters in the month of May as well as July. It has also shared the very first views of the north and south poles of the moons. The spacecraft has also performed close flybys of Jupiter’s icy moons Ganymede and Europa. “With our pair of close flybys in December and February, Juno will investigate the source of Io’s massive volcanic activity, whether a magma ocean exists underneath its crust, and the importance of tidal forces from Jupiter, which are relentlessly squeezing this tortured moon,” said Bolton. The next close flyby of Io is due to take place on Feb 3, 2024, in which Juno is set to appear within about 930 miles (1,500 kilometres) of the surface. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s Juno spacecraft to make closest flyby of Jupiter’s volcanic moon

India's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party founder-chief and popular Tamil actor Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in Chennai on Thursday (Dec 28) following an illness. &nbsp;

MIOT International Hospital released a press statement saying, "Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023."&nbsp;

He had tested positive for coronavirus.

Earlier, his party took to the official X handle and shared a post informing that Vijayakanth was admitted to a hospital and put on ventilator support after he complained of breathing problems.

As per news agency ANI reports, his mortal remains have been brought to his residence and will be taken to the DMDK office.

He was admitted to MIOT Hospital in Chennai earlier in the month of November after his health deteriorated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-plane-row-25-held-in-france-freed-mumbai-spl-igp-seeks-probe-into-trafficking-angle-674204">France plane row: Mumbai Spl IGP seeks probe into trafficking angle</a>

<h2>PM Modi condoles demise of Vijayakanth</h2>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the DMDK chief a "legend of Tamil film world," condoled his demise.

"Extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions," PM Modi posted on his official handle on X.

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Extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political… <a href="https://t.co/di0ZUfUVWo">pic.twitter.com/di0ZUfUVWo</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1740228820332896483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Indian prime minister further said that Vijayakanth's demise had left a void which is very hard to fill.

"As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu's political landscape. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. He was a close friend and I fondly recall my interactions with him over the years. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, fans and numerous followers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Modi posted.

The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai also expressed grief over the DMDK chief's demise.&nbsp;

"Captain Vijayakanth's demise is a loss for Tamil Nadu and the Tamil people. Though he is no longer with us, his name and legacy will live on in our hearts and minds," he said in a posting on social media platform x.

Revered as "Captain" by his fans, Vijayakanth's life is marked by a successful career in the Tamil film industry.

He founded the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazgam party in the year 2005.

Vijayakanth served as the leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from the year 2011 to 2016.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party founder-chief and popular Tamil actor Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in Chennai on Thursday (Dec 28) following an illness.

India's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party founder-chief and popular Tamil actor Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in Chennai on Thursday (Dec 28) following an illness. MIOT International Hospital released a press statement saying, "Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023." He had tested positive for coronavirus. Earlier, his party took to the official X handle and shared a post informing that Vijayakanth was admitted to a hospital and put on ventilator support after he complained of breathing problems. As per news agency ANI reports, his mortal remains have been brought to his residence and will be taken to the DMDK office. He was admitted to MIOT Hospital in Chennai earlier in the month of November after his health deteriorated. Also read: France plane row: Mumbai Spl IGP seeks probe into trafficking angle PM Modi condoles demise of Vijayakanth Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the DMDK chief a "legend of Tamil film world," condoled his demise. "Extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions," PM Modi posted on his official handle on X. Extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political… pic.twitter.com/di0ZUfUVWo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2023 × The Indian prime minister further said that Vijayakanth's demise had left a void which is very hard to fill. "As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu's political landscape. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. He was a close friend and I fondly recall my interactions with him over the years. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, fans and numerous followers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Modi posted. The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai also expressed grief over the DMDK chief's demise. "Captain Vijayakanth's demise is a loss for Tamil Nadu and the Tamil people. Though he is no longer with us, his name and legacy will live on in our hearts and minds," he said in a posting on social media platform x. Revered as "Captain" by his fans, Vijayakanth's life is marked by a successful career in the Tamil film industry. He founded the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazgam party in the year 2005. Vijayakanth served as the leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from the year 2011 to 2016. (With inputs from agencies)

Actor and DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies at 71 after testing positive for Covid

At least 12 people were killed and 14 others sustained severe burn injuries as a bus caught fire after colliding with a dumper in Guna district of the central Madhya Pradesh state on Wednesday night (Dec 27), an official said.

The private bus collided head-on with the dumper on Guna-Aaron road, the official said, adding that the injured were rushed to the Guna district hospital for treatment.

Twelve bus passengers were charred to death and 14 others sustained injuries, Guna district's Superintendent of Police (SP) told PTI news agency.

The ill-fated bus was on its way to Aaron while the dumper was headed towards Guna when the accident occurred at around 9 pm, police said.

The SP said there were around 30 passengers in the bus at the time of the accident.

Four of them somehow managed to come out of the bus and have gone home.

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Guna collector Tarun Rathi said the administration is probing the incident.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed grief and announced an assistance of ₹ 400,000 each to the kin of the deceased and ₹ 50,000 each for the injured.

The chief minister also ordered a probe into the accident.

In a message on X, Union Civil Aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia termed the incident as "painful" and said, "Soon after getting information about the incident, I spoke to the collector and SP and directed them to start a relief and rescue operation."

Scindia also condoled the demise of the passengers.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 12 people were killed and 14 others sustained severe burn injuries as a bus caught fire after colliding with a dumper in Guna district of the central Madhya Pradesh state on Wednesday night (Dec 27), an official said.

At least 12 people were killed and 14 others sustained severe burn injuries as a bus caught fire after colliding with a dumper in Guna district of the central Madhya Pradesh state on Wednesday night (Dec 27), an official said. The private bus collided head-on with the dumper on Guna-Aaron road, the official said, adding that the injured were rushed to the Guna district hospital for treatment. Twelve bus passengers were charred to death and 14 others sustained injuries, Guna district's Superintendent of Police (SP) told PTI news agency. The ill-fated bus was on its way to Aaron while the dumper was headed towards Guna when the accident occurred at around 9 pm, police said. The SP said there were around 30 passengers in the bus at the time of the accident. Four of them somehow managed to come out of the bus and have gone home. Also read: Actor, DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies after testing positive for Covid Guna collector Tarun Rathi said the administration is probing the incident. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed grief and announced an assistance of ₹ 400,000 each to the kin of the deceased and ₹ 50,000 each for the injured. The chief minister also ordered a probe into the accident. In a message on X, Union Civil Aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia termed the incident as "painful" and said, "Soon after getting information about the incident, I spoke to the collector and SP and directed them to start a relief and rescue operation." Scindia also condoled the demise of the passengers. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 12 charred to death in Madhya Pradesh as bus catches fire after collision with dumper

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