Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Premier League</a> club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season.

City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Liverpool</a> by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him.

"This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me.

"Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future."

City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-guardiola-takes-dig-at-premier-league-says-thank-you-for-busy-festive-season-269649">Guardiola</a> praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches.

"Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front.

"Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games."

Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week.

"He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all."

Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign. The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season. City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing Liverpool by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him. "This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers. "I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me. "Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future." City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and Guardiola praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches. "Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front. "Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games." Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week. "He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all." Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

I have to see if I deserve a new contract: Pep Guardiola

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-and-neymar-dazzle-as-psg-thrash-galatasaray-267850">Kylian Mbappe</a> is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">Paris Saint-Germain</a> over participation.

"Playing in the Olympics, I don't control everything," he told France Football magazine in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "Of course I want to go, but if my club, which is my employer, doesn't want me to go, I won't force a clash.

"We'll soon talk about it," said the 21-year-old, who already has a World Cup winner's medal.

Mbappe had already dropped an Olympic hint when he responded to the French team's qualification in June with a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/more-tokyo-olympic-events-rescheduled-due-to-heat-concern-266444">TOKYO 2020</a>" tweet accompanied by a flashing emoticon and a French flag.

Olympic football at Tokyo, an under-23 tournament with each side allowed three overage players, runs from July 22 to August 8, which is also the scheduled date of the start of the French season. Mbappe is also due to play for France at the Euros which run from June 12 to July 12.

If the 21-year-old Parisian star were to be called up by Olympic coach Sylvian Ripoll, he would take his holiday at the start of the club season.&nbsp;

The striker said he had discussed a possible appearance at the Games with France senior coach Didier Deschamps.&nbsp;

"The coach was adamant that it would never be to the detriment of the Euro," Mbappe said. "I reassured him by telling him that I also wanted to play in the Euro, and he said: 'So it's up to you to deal with the people it concerns'.

"If I don't manage to go in 2020, I'll still have 2024 left, in Paris," Mbappe said. "I'd really like to do the Olympics at least once in my career."

Kylian Mbappe is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club Paris Saint-Germain over participation.

Kylian Mbappe is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club Paris Saint-Germain over participation. "Playing in the Olympics, I don't control everything," he told France Football magazine in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "Of course I want to go, but if my club, which is my employer, doesn't want me to go, I won't force a clash. "We'll soon talk about it," said the 21-year-old, who already has a World Cup winner's medal. Mbappe had already dropped an Olympic hint when he responded to the French team's qualification in June with a "TOKYO 2020" tweet accompanied by a flashing emoticon and a French flag. Olympic football at Tokyo, an under-23 tournament with each side allowed three overage players, runs from July 22 to August 8, which is also the scheduled date of the start of the French season. Mbappe is also due to play for France at the Euros which run from June 12 to July 12. If the 21-year-old Parisian star were to be called up by Olympic coach Sylvian Ripoll, he would take his holiday at the start of the club season. The striker said he had discussed a possible appearance at the Games with France senior coach Didier Deschamps. "The coach was adamant that it would never be to the detriment of the Euro," Mbappe said. "I reassured him by telling him that I also wanted to play in the Euro, and he said: 'So it's up to you to deal with the people it concerns'. "If I don't manage to go in 2020, I'll still have 2024 left, in Paris," Mbappe said. "I'd really like to do the Olympics at least once in my career."

Kylian Mbappe adds Olympic appearance to packed 2020 wish list

Australia's opening batsman David&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;has been declared&nbsp;fit&nbsp;for the team's&nbsp;second T<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-new-zealand-by-296-runs-to-win-first-test-in-perth-268378">est</a>&nbsp;against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite&nbsp;being&nbsp;hit&nbsp;on the&nbsp;hand&nbsp;while batting in the nets on Monday.

Warner&nbsp;had to have medical checks&nbsp;after&nbsp;he was struck on the thumb. He returned to training with his&nbsp;hand&nbsp;strapped.

"I've got absolutely no worries that he'll be raring to go," Australia&nbsp;coach&nbsp;Justin Langer told reporters on Tuesday. "There was a little concern for about two&nbsp;seconds, but then he saw the doctor and he's&nbsp;hitting balls again."

"We know how well he's playing at the moment, we know how much all the boys love playing Test&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-trent-boult-on-track-for-dream-boxing-day-test-against-australia-268852">Boxing Day</a>&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;... so he'll be ready to go."

Warner&nbsp;faced about 45 minutes of throw-downs on Tuesday, according to local media reports, although he did appear at times to be in pain and took his&nbsp;hand&nbsp;off the bat.

Langer added that fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against-pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">James Pattinson</a> would almost certainly make his first&nbsp;test&nbsp;appearance in Australia in almost four years for the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 296-run first&nbsp;test&nbsp;victory in Perth.

"I've said it all week, he (Pattinson) was the 12th man the last game, we try to be as consistent as possible," Langer said.

"We've got some great depth of talent there, we've got Michael Neser here, we've got Peter Siddle, James Pattinson so I think at this stage, Patto will probably get one of the nods."

While the 29-year-old was likely to partner Mitchell Starc and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cummins-becomes-ipls-most-expensive-overseas-buy-269295">Pat Cummins</a> for his first&nbsp;test&nbsp;in Australia since January 2016, Langer said they were still working through their final playing selections.

Langer mooted last week selecting five specialist bowlers with the Melbourne&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Ground (MCG) pitch favouring batsmen in the previous two years, but said on Tuesday finalising the starting eleven could be a match-day decision.

"We'll work out what the set-up of our team is going to be, whether we play ... an extra bowler or not," he said.

"We'll have a look at the wicket. The wicket looks pretty good at the moment two days out."

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has been declared fit for the team's second Test against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite being hit on the hand while batting in the nets on Monday.

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has been declared fit for the team's second Test against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite being hit on the hand while batting in the nets on Monday. Warner had to have medical checks after he was struck on the thumb. He returned to training with his hand strapped. "I've got absolutely no worries that he'll be raring to go," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters on Tuesday. "There was a little concern for about two seconds, but then he saw the doctor and he's hitting balls again." "We know how well he's playing at the moment, we know how much all the boys love playing Test cricket and Boxing Day cricket ... so he'll be ready to go." Warner faced about 45 minutes of throw-downs on Tuesday, according to local media reports, although he did appear at times to be in pain and took his hand off the bat. Langer added that fast bowler James Pattinson would almost certainly make his first test appearance in Australia in almost four years for the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 296-run first test victory in Perth. "I've said it all week, he (Pattinson) was the 12th man the last game, we try to be as consistent as possible," Langer said. "We've got some great depth of talent there, we've got Michael Neser here, we've got Peter Siddle, James Pattinson so I think at this stage, Patto will probably get one of the nods." While the 29-year-old was likely to partner Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins for his first test in Australia since January 2016, Langer said they were still working through their final playing selections. Langer mooted last week selecting five specialist bowlers with the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch favouring batsmen in the previous two years, but said on Tuesday finalising the starting eleven could be a match-day decision. "We'll work out what the set-up of our team is going to be, whether we play ... an extra bowler or not," he said. "We'll have a look at the wicket. The wicket looks pretty good at the moment two days out."

David Warner fit for second Test against New Zealand: Australia coach Langer

Arsenal&nbsp;have&nbsp;a squad that can be improved but the&nbsp;players&nbsp;must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans,&nbsp;new&nbsp;manager Mikel&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;said on Monday.

In his first&nbsp;news conference last week,&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;had demanded "passion and energy"&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;players&nbsp;and the Spaniard said he was satisfied with what he saw during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Everton.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-guardiola-expects-quick-decision-on-arteta-over-arsenal-move-268874">Arteta</a>, 37, will make his managerial debut when 11th-placed&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;travel to Bournemouth on Thursday.

"I think that we have a really good team with a lot to improve,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;told reporters. "I need them all on board. All the meetings we've had is to get everyone on board and so far I'm very happy with the reaction."

"What we are going to transmit to the team is&nbsp;accountability&nbsp;to play for this football club. This is the basic... We are much more committed. The body language (in the Everton draw) was much better and they had much more passion, that is non-negotiable."

Arteta&nbsp;confirmed interim&nbsp;boss&nbsp;Freddie Ljungberg, who took charge for six games following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sacked-unai-emery-honoured-to-coach-arsenal-265333">Unai Emery</a>'s sacking, will stay on as a member of the coaching staff.

"I spoke to him after the game,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;added. "I told him who I want to bring in and I wanted to know what he was feeling. We decided the best thing would be for him to carry on with us.

"I knew&nbsp;him a little and we will start a&nbsp;new&nbsp;chapter and he was very positive."

Arteta&nbsp;also said midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-censor-ozil-but-cannot-hide-human-rights-violations-against-uighurs-pompeo-268791">Mesut Ozil</a> was a part of his plans despite Ljungberg's unhappiness over the German's conduct during&nbsp;Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Manchester City earlier this month.

Ozil kicked his gloves in frustration after being withdrawn in the 59th minute and Ljungberg said his unacceptable conduct would have prevented him&nbsp;from&nbsp;being selected at Everton had he been fit for the match.

"It's a question for Freddie,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;said. "I just wanted him to pick the best possible lineup for the game. You're not going to be judged on what you done in the past, positive or negative.

"We will try to put the most competitive team out, we are to be ready and nullify them as much as possible."

Arsenal have a squad that can be improved but the players must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans, new manager Mikel Arteta said on Monday.

Arsenal have a squad that can be improved but the players must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans, new manager Mikel Arteta said on Monday. In his first news conference last week, Arteta had demanded "passion and energy" from the players and the Spaniard said he was satisfied with what he saw during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Everton. Arteta, 37, will make his managerial debut when 11th-placed Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Thursday. "I think that we have a really good team with a lot to improve," Arteta told reporters. "I need them all on board. All the meetings we've had is to get everyone on board and so far I'm very happy with the reaction." "What we are going to transmit to the team is accountability to play for this football club. This is the basic... We are much more committed. The body language (in the Everton draw) was much better and they had much more passion, that is non-negotiable." Arteta confirmed interim boss Freddie Ljungberg, who took charge for six games following Unai Emery's sacking, will stay on as a member of the coaching staff. "I spoke to him after the game," Arteta added. "I told him who I want to bring in and I wanted to know what he was feeling. We decided the best thing would be for him to carry on with us. "I knew him a little and we will start a new chapter and he was very positive." Arteta also said midfielder Mesut Ozil was a part of his plans despite Ljungberg's unhappiness over the German's conduct during Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Manchester City earlier this month. Ozil kicked his gloves in frustration after being withdrawn in the 59th minute and Ljungberg said his unacceptable conduct would have prevented him from being selected at Everton had he been fit for the match. "It's a question for Freddie," Arteta said. "I just wanted him to pick the best possible lineup for the game. You're not going to be judged on what you done in the past, positive or negative. "We will try to put the most competitive team out, we are to be ready and nullify them as much as possible."

New Arsenal boss Arteta demands accountability from players

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/napoli-sack-coach-ancelotti-after-reaching-champions-league-last-16-267631">Carlo&nbsp;Ancelotti</a>&nbsp;to take up the role at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Merseyside club</a>, the Italian said on Monday.

Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Chelsea</a> in England, left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Napoli</a> this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">Everton</a>, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-to-compete-manchester-united-in-league-cup-semi-finals-derby-269097">Duncan Ferguson</a>, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday.

"The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me."

Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Real Madrid</a>, outlined his long-term plan to get&nbsp;Everton&nbsp;playing&nbsp;football&nbsp;that would delight the club's supporters.

"We want to try and&nbsp;play&nbsp;attractive&nbsp;football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League.

"I have my idea of this team and squad.&nbsp;I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters.

"They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus.&nbsp;It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly."

Ancelotti&nbsp;confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the&nbsp;players, saying he had done the same at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a> with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane.

"Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the&nbsp;players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me.

"Duncan has done a great job, the&nbsp;players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal."

Everton&nbsp;host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-fan-13-investigated-for-alleged-racist-gesture-towards-son-267397">Burnley</a> on Thursday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday. Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed Chelsea in England, left Napoli this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone. Everton, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss Duncan Ferguson, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday. "The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough," Ancelotti told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me." Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and Real Madrid, outlined his long-term plan to get Everton playing football that would delight the club's supporters. "We want to try and play attractive football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League. "I have my idea of this team and squad. I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters. "They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus. It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly." Ancelotti confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the players, saying he had done the same at Paris St Germain with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane. "Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant," Ancelotti said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me. "Duncan has done a great job, the players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal." Everton host Burnley on Thursday.

We want to try and play attractive football: Carlo Ancelotti on Everton

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-south-korea-prepare-for-trilateral-summit-amid-tensions-269632">trilateral summit</a> opened on Tuesday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said that Japan and South Korea are keen to resolve issues with North Korea through dialogue.

Keqiang met South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the southern city of Chengdu to kick-start the summit.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing ahead of the talks with Keqiang. The Japanese prime minister raised the Hong Kong issue with the Chinese president reiterating that "Hong Kong should continue to be free and open".

Otaka Masato, Japan's foreign affairs spokesman said PM Abe "urged China to continue its self-restraint" over Hong Kong and expressed "hope for an early resolution of the situation".

"Mr Abe reiterated that he is very much concerned about the situation...(and) mentioned that under the 'one country, two systems', Hong Kong should continue to be free and open and to be able to enjoy its development," the Japanese foreign affairs spokesman said. The Japanese spokesman added that Xi told Abe that Hong Kong "is a domestic matter".

Abe and Xi also discussed North Korea and the denuclearisation moves in the Korean Peninsula, although the spokesman added that "it was too early for any lifting of the sanctions at this moment considering what’s happening around North Korea these days."

The leaders of the three nations are holding talks amid differences over trade and military issues. Ahead of the meet, the Chiese foreign ministry had said that ties between Tokyo and Seoul remain strained over trade and security issues as well as compensation for wartime forced labour. 
&nbsp;

As the trilateral summit opened on Tuesday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said that Japan and South Korea are keen to resolve issues with North Korea through dialogue.

As the trilateral summit opened on Tuesday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said that Japan and South Korea are keen to resolve issues with North Korea through dialogue. Keqiang met South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the southern city of Chengdu to kick-start the summit. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing ahead of the talks with Keqiang. The Japanese prime minister raised the Hong Kong issue with the Chinese president reiterating that "Hong Kong should continue to be free and open". Otaka Masato, Japan's foreign affairs spokesman said PM Abe "urged China to continue its self-restraint" over Hong Kong and expressed "hope for an early resolution of the situation". "Mr Abe reiterated that he is very much concerned about the situation...(and) mentioned that under the 'one country, two systems', Hong Kong should continue to be free and open and to be able to enjoy its development," the Japanese foreign affairs spokesman said. The Japanese spokesman added that Xi told Abe that Hong Kong "is a domestic matter". Abe and Xi also discussed North Korea and the denuclearisation moves in the Korean Peninsula, although the spokesman added that "it was too early for any lifting of the sanctions at this moment considering what’s happening around North Korea these days." The leaders of the three nations are holding talks amid differences over trade and military issues. Ahead of the meet, the Chiese foreign ministry had said that ties between Tokyo and Seoul remain strained over trade and security issues as well as compensation for wartime forced labour.

Japan, South Korea committed to dialogue to resolve North Korea issue: China

While the North American Aerospace Defense Command stays alert for any signs of a North Korea missile launch – what officials in Pyongyang have described as a "Christmas gift" – it is also tracking the legendary figure who delivers presents to children across the world, the command said on Monday.

Based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, NORAD is a combined US&nbsp;and Canadian military command whose mission is to issue aerospace and maritime warnings and controls across North America.

For more than six decades, it has also offered real-time animated tracking of Santa Claus, also known as Kris Kringle, as his reindeer-powered sleigh traverses the globe delivering Yuletide gifts to children.

“As NORAD conducts its primary mission of defending North America from threats, we’re proud to continue our tradition of tracking Santa’s journey around the world,” NORAD said in a statement.

NORAD’s Santa tracking website www.noradsanta.org gets nearly 15 million unique visitors from more than 200 countries and territories across the globe, the agency said.

NORAD in recent years has been tracking North Korean long-range missile tests.

Pyongyang warned Washington earlier this month of a possible “Christmas gift”. That came after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gave the United States until the end of the year to propose new concessions in talks over his country’s nuclear arsenal and reducing tensions between the two long-time adversaries.

NORAD’s Santa-tracking tradition started in 1955 when a Colorado Springs department store misprinted the phone number to the North Pole in a newspaper advertisement, according to its website.

The first call came from a little girl and went to US&nbsp;Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup, director of what was then known as the Continental Air Defense Command.

The colonel assured the girl that Santa was on en route, and when more children called the command center, the military added a new task to its defense mission.

Renamed NORAD three years later as a combined Canadian and U.S. agency, the Santa mission has continued uninterrupted ever since. Santa watchers can now track his whereabouts through NORAD’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube accounts.

While the North American Aerospace Defense Command stays alert for any signs of a North Korea missile launch – what officials in Pyongyang have described as a "Christmas gift" – it is also tracking the legendary figure who delivers presents to children across the world, the command said on Monday.

While the North American Aerospace Defense Command stays alert for any signs of a North Korea missile launch – what officials in Pyongyang have described as a "Christmas gift" – it is also tracking the legendary figure who delivers presents to children across the world, the command said on Monday. Based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, NORAD is a combined US and Canadian military command whose mission is to issue aerospace and maritime warnings and controls across North America. For more than six decades, it has also offered real-time animated tracking of Santa Claus, also known as Kris Kringle, as his reindeer-powered sleigh traverses the globe delivering Yuletide gifts to children. “As NORAD conducts its primary mission of defending North America from threats, we’re proud to continue our tradition of tracking Santa’s journey around the world,” NORAD said in a statement. NORAD’s Santa tracking website www.noradsanta.org gets nearly 15 million unique visitors from more than 200 countries and territories across the globe, the agency said. NORAD in recent years has been tracking North Korean long-range missile tests. Pyongyang warned Washington earlier this month of a possible “Christmas gift”. That came after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gave the United States until the end of the year to propose new concessions in talks over his country’s nuclear arsenal and reducing tensions between the two long-time adversaries. NORAD’s Santa-tracking tradition started in 1955 when a Colorado Springs department store misprinted the phone number to the North Pole in a newspaper advertisement, according to its website. The first call came from a little girl and went to US Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup, director of what was then known as the Continental Air Defense Command. The colonel assured the girl that Santa was on en route, and when more children called the command center, the military added a new task to its defense mission. Renamed NORAD three years later as a combined Canadian and U.S. agency, the Santa mission has continued uninterrupted ever since. Santa watchers can now track his whereabouts through NORAD’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube accounts.

US-Canadian military tracker NORAD eyes Santa, 'Christmas gift' from North Korea

At least twenty-four people have died after a bus plunged into a ravine in Indonesia.

Police said the bus fell into a 500-foot ravine and then went into the river in south Sumatra on Monday night.

(Developing)

At least twenty-four people have died after a bus plunged into a ravine in Indonesia. Police said the bus fell into a 500-foot ravine and then went into the river in south Sumatra on Monday night.

At least twenty-four people have died after a bus plunged into a ravine in Indonesia. Police said the bus fell into a 500-foot ravine and then went into the river in south Sumatra on Monday night. (Developing)

At least 24 dead as bus plunges into ravine in Indonesia

Russia on Monday tested <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sovereign-internet-tested-amid-fears-of-online-isolation-269779">its internet services</a> to check if it could withstand a cyberattack and also whether it can remain unaffected in case the country is&nbsp;cut off from the international internet network.

The move comes after Russia last month introduced the sovereign internet bill amid fears of censorship and domestic online isolation.

"The results of the tests have shown that on the whole both authorities and service providers are ready to effectively react to emerging risks and threats and ensure reliable work of both the internet and the single telecommunication network," Russia's communications minister Alexei Sokolov said.

"Our goal was to provide an uninterrupted internet service on Russian territory under any circumstances," the Russian minister added.

The results of the tests will be presented to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-hints-at-presidential-term-limit-in-marathon-press-conference-269232">President Putin</a>. The Russian president during a press conference last week had defended the country's new internet guidelines claiming that a "free internet" and "sovereign internet" were not "mutually exclusive".

Putin said the new internet law was aimed at "preventing negative consequences of being disconnected from the global network" which was primarily managed abroad. The new law routes Russian web traffic and data through state authorities.

Russia had asked all domestic networks and email providers to take part in the test on Monday to test the viability of its internal system.

"The purpose of the task is to ensure the reliable operation of the internet in Russia in any conditions and under any circumstances," Sokolov said, adding, "our task is to make sure everything works. That's what today's drills are aimed at."&nbsp;

"The outcomes of the review showed that government agencies and communications operators are ready to respond effectively to threats and to ensure the internet and communications operate effectively," Sokolov said. 
&nbsp;

Russia on Monday tested its internet services to check if it could withstand a cyberattack and also whether it can remain unaffected in case the country is cut off from the international internet network.

Russia on Monday tested its internet services to check if it could withstand a cyberattack and also whether it can remain unaffected in case the country is cut off from the international internet network. The move comes after Russia last month introduced the sovereign internet bill amid fears of censorship and domestic online isolation. "The results of the tests have shown that on the whole both authorities and service providers are ready to effectively react to emerging risks and threats and ensure reliable work of both the internet and the single telecommunication network," Russia's communications minister Alexei Sokolov said. "Our goal was to provide an uninterrupted internet service on Russian territory under any circumstances," the Russian minister added. The results of the tests will be presented to President Putin. The Russian president during a press conference last week had defended the country's new internet guidelines claiming that a "free internet" and "sovereign internet" were not "mutually exclusive". Putin said the new internet law was aimed at "preventing negative consequences of being disconnected from the global network" which was primarily managed abroad. The new law routes Russian web traffic and data through state authorities. Russia had asked all domestic networks and email providers to take part in the test on Monday to test the viability of its internal system. "The purpose of the task is to ensure the reliable operation of the internet in Russia in any conditions and under any circumstances," Sokolov said, adding, "our task is to make sure everything works. That's what today's drills are aimed at." "The outcomes of the review showed that government agencies and communications operators are ready to respond effectively to threats and to ensure the internet and communications operate effectively," Sokolov said.

Internet test review shows government ready to respond to threats: Russia

Russia-backed Syrian forces gain ground after a week-long renewed assault against the rebels in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-regime-widens-control-over-idlib-fuelling-exodus-monitor-269591">Syria's Idlib</a>.

Reports said Russian planes continued to pound positions at Idlib killing at least nine civilians. The fresh assault has led to a new wave of mass exodus, Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights observed.

According to the war monitor, over 30,000 civilians have fled from southern Idlib since the ground assault by loyalists of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime began.

The Syrian Army said it had captured several villages on Monday near Maaret al-Numan. The Syrian Observatory said regime forces had surrounded several observation posts in a bid to push through the opposition bastion.

Amid the violence, a Turkish delegation arrived in Russian on Monday for talks on Syria even as President Tayyip Erdogan openly declared that Turkey cannot handle large scale influx of refugees.

Meanwhile, UN called for "immediate de-escalation" amid escalation of&nbsp; violent clashes in the area.

"The Secretary-General reminds all parties of their obligations to protect civilians and ensure freedom of movement," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

&nbsp;

Russia-backed Syrian forces gain ground after a week-long renewed assault against the rebels in Syria's Idlib. Reports said Russian planes continued to pound positions at Idlib killing at least nine civilians.

Russia-backed Syrian forces gain ground after a week-long renewed assault against the rebels in Syria's Idlib. Reports said Russian planes continued to pound positions at Idlib killing at least nine civilians. The fresh assault has led to a new wave of mass exodus, Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights observed. According to the war monitor, over 30,000 civilians have fled from southern Idlib since the ground assault by loyalists of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime began. The Syrian Army said it had captured several villages on Monday near Maaret al-Numan. The Syrian Observatory said regime forces had surrounded several observation posts in a bid to push through the opposition bastion. Amid the violence, a Turkish delegation arrived in Russian on Monday for talks on Syria even as President Tayyip Erdogan openly declared that Turkey cannot handle large scale influx of refugees. Meanwhile, UN called for "immediate de-escalation" amid escalation of violent clashes in the area. "The Secretary-General reminds all parties of their obligations to protect civilians and ensure freedom of movement," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

Russia-backed Syrian forces gain ground in Idlib

Iran on Monday unveiled the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-against-iran-are-a-reckless-addiction-iran-foreign-minister-269603">secondary circuit </a>of its nuclear reactor at Arak which it said was part of the redevelopment plan.

"Today a significant part of the reactor becomes operational," Iran's atomic energy chief said, adding, "the secondary circuit transfers the heat generated in the reactor's heart to cooling towers and is now complete."

Iran's atomic energy chief informed that the "primary circuit" was still being built in an indication of renewed plans to build its nuclear prowess. &nbsp;

Salehi informed that "fifty-two systems have to be built so that the reactor can become operational" while informing that twenty have been completed.

President Donald Trump had pulled the United States out of the nuclear deal with Iran in May last year which included six other nations and had reimposed sanctions on the country. Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia were the other stakeholders in the deal who backed Iran even after the US pullout but the fate of the deal has increasingly become unclear.

Iran had earlier restarted enriching uranium at Fordow nuclear facility in breach of the 2015 agreement which was criticised by several European countries including the United States.

Reports had indicated that the European "E3" powers - France, Britain and Germany were considering triggering reimposition of United Nations sanctions which was part of the 2015 deal but have refrained from pulling the plug on Iran.

Iran says it has the right to take measures to protect its security after the US withdrew from the nuclear pact and imposed crippling sanctions.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had recently said that US sanctions against Iran were a &nbsp;"reckless addiction" even as Iran President Hassan Rouhani slammed the "irrational" withdrawal of the United States from the multinational nuclear deal.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Iran on Monday unveiled the secondary circuit of its nuclear reactor at Arak which it said was part of the redevelopment plan. "Today a significant part of the reactor becomes operational," Iran's atomic energy chief said, adding, "the secondary circuit transfers the heat generated in the reactor's heart to cooling towers and is now complete.

Iran on Monday unveiled the secondary circuit of its nuclear reactor at Arak which it said was part of the redevelopment plan. "Today a significant part of the reactor becomes operational," Iran's atomic energy chief said, adding, "the secondary circuit transfers the heat generated in the reactor's heart to cooling towers and is now complete." Iran's atomic energy chief informed that the "primary circuit" was still being built in an indication of renewed plans to build its nuclear prowess. Salehi informed that "fifty-two systems have to be built so that the reactor can become operational" while informing that twenty have been completed. President Donald Trump had pulled the United States out of the nuclear deal with Iran in May last year which included six other nations and had reimposed sanctions on the country. Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia were the other stakeholders in the deal who backed Iran even after the US pullout but the fate of the deal has increasingly become unclear. Iran had earlier restarted enriching uranium at Fordow nuclear facility in breach of the 2015 agreement which was criticised by several European countries including the United States. Reports had indicated that the European "E3" powers - France, Britain and Germany were considering triggering reimposition of United Nations sanctions which was part of the 2015 deal but have refrained from pulling the plug on Iran. Iran says it has the right to take measures to protect its security after the US withdrew from the nuclear pact and imposed crippling sanctions. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had recently said that US sanctions against Iran were a "reckless addiction" even as Iran President Hassan Rouhani slammed the "irrational" withdrawal of the United States from the multinational nuclear deal.

Iran unveils development at Arak reactor amid US sanctions pressure

According to the New York Times, massive construction work is underway at the Dara Sakor international airport in the southern tip of Cambodia aided by China.

The new airstrip has a peculiar feature - a tight turning bay which is usually seen in a military base, not a civilian airport. The New York Times report indicates that China may have lured the south-east state of Cambodia into its South China Sea ambitions.

The report states that adjacent to the airstrip is a deep sea port both built by a politically connected Chinese company. The company reportedly has a 99-year lease that effectively gives it control of 20 per cent of Cambodia's coastline.

<img alt="China's 'String of Pearls'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1cb3283-63a3-439d-88ca-df96e4953af8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_0.jpg" />

China's 'String of Pearls' Photograph:( WION Web Team )

The company in question is called union development group, the report indicates. NYT says it has no other operations anywhere in the world. The report quoted a Pentagon spokesperson being concerned about the twin projects.

However, the Cambodian government claims it is a civil aviation authority project. In fact, China has more military designs in Cambodia. Fifty miles from Dara Sakor is the ream naval base - &nbsp;the largest base in Cambodia.&nbsp;

There was reportedly no open bidding process for the land and the company was allegedly granted a concession that was three times the legal limit.

A Wall Street Journal report in July had hinted earlier that an agreement had given China exclusive rights to operate the port for 30 years. The report is further bolstered by the fact that Cambodia rejected American help to refurbish training facilities on the port.

According to the New York Times, massive construction work is underway at the Dara Sakor international airport in the southern tip of Cambodia aided by China. The new airstrip has a peculiar feature - a tight turning bay which is usually seen in a military base, not a civilian airport.

According to the New York Times, massive construction work is underway at the Dara Sakor international airport in the southern tip of Cambodia aided by China. The new airstrip has a peculiar feature - a tight turning bay which is usually seen in a military base, not a civilian airport. The New York Times report indicates that China may have lured the south-east state of Cambodia into its South China Sea ambitions. The report states that adjacent to the airstrip is a deep sea port both built by a politically connected Chinese company. The company reportedly has a 99-year lease that effectively gives it control of 20 per cent of Cambodia's coastline. China's 'String of Pearls' Photograph:( WION Web Team ) The company in question is called union development group, the report indicates. NYT says it has no other operations anywhere in the world. The report quoted a Pentagon spokesperson being concerned about the twin projects. However, the Cambodian government claims it is a civil aviation authority project. In fact, China has more military designs in Cambodia. Fifty miles from Dara Sakor is the ream naval base - the largest base in Cambodia. There was reportedly no open bidding process for the land and the company was allegedly granted a concession that was three times the legal limit. A Wall Street Journal report in July had hinted earlier that an agreement had given China exclusive rights to operate the port for 30 years. The report is further bolstered by the fact that Cambodia rejected American help to refurbish training facilities on the port.

New airstrip in Cambodian jungle sparks fears over China's military ambitions: Report

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Rustam

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.