<p>Lapses in strategies to tackle&nbsp;COVID-19 this year continue to&nbsp;create&nbsp;"the perfect conditions" for a&nbsp;deadly&nbsp;new&nbsp;variant&nbsp;to emerge, the World Health Organization's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday (December 2).</p>

<p>With the peak of the pandemic behind, countries worldwide are starting to loosen the reins on surveillance, testing and vaccination for the disease which has claimed more than 6 million lives so far.</p>

<p>About 90 per cent&nbsp;of the world's population now has some level of immunity to SARS-COV-2 either due to prior infection or vaccination, according to the global health agency's estimates.</p>

<p>"We are much closer to being able to say that the emergency phase of the pandemic is over, but we're not there yet," Tedros told reporters during a press conference.</p>

<p>His comments come as China experiences a rebound in infections.</p>

<p>The further easing of&nbsp;COVID-19 testing requirements and quarantine rules in some Chinese cities was met with a mix of relief and worry on Friday, as hundreds of millions await an expected shift in national virus policies after widespread social unrest.</p>

<p>It was encouraging that China was adjusting its current&nbsp;COVID-19 control strategies,&nbsp;WHO's emergencies director Mike Ryan said.</p>

<p>Ryan said he hopes that a coherent and clear strategy emerges in China "that balances the control of the virus with ... the livelihoods, wellbeing and human rights of the people."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Lapses in strategies to tackle COVID-19 this year continue to create "the perfect conditions" for a deadly new variant to emerge, the World Health Organization's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday (December 2).

Lapses in strategies to tackle COVID-19 this year continue to create "the perfect conditions" for a deadly new variant to emerge, the World Health Organization's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday (December 2). With the peak of the pandemic behind, countries worldwide are starting to loosen the reins on surveillance, testing and vaccination for the disease which has claimed more than 6 million lives so far. About 90 per cent of the world's population now has some level of immunity to SARS-COV-2 either due to prior infection or vaccination, according to the global health agency's estimates. "We are much closer to being able to say that the emergency phase of the pandemic is over, but we're not there yet," Tedros told reporters during a press conference. His comments come as China experiences a rebound in infections. The further easing of COVID-19 testing requirements and quarantine rules in some Chinese cities was met with a mix of relief and worry on Friday, as hundreds of millions await an expected shift in national virus policies after widespread social unrest. It was encouraging that China was adjusting its current COVID-19 control strategies, WHO's emergencies director Mike Ryan said. Ryan said he hopes that a coherent and clear strategy emerges in China "that balances the control of the virus with ... the livelihoods, wellbeing and human rights of the people." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Drop in Covid alertness could create deadly new variant, says WHO

<p>Edward Snowden is in news once again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former US intelligence whistleblower has&nbsp;received a Russian passport on Friday (Nov 02) after swearing an oath of allegiance to Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Snowden's lawyer Anatoly Kucherena told the news agency TASS, "Yes, he got [a passport], he took the oath."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/edward-snowden-a-hero-or-a-traitor-520101"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Who is Edward Snowden, the US whistleblower who just got Russian citizenship?</strong></a></p>

<p>Snowden&nbsp;was granted Russian citizenship by Russian President Vladimir Putin in September this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The whistleblower has been wanted back in the US by the authorities for years to stand for investigations for espionage. He left the country after disclosing top-secret reports exposing surveillance practices of the US's National Security Agency (NSA).</p>

<p>White House's official John Kirby told reporters on Friday over the report, "This is still a criminal investigative matter."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I'm in Russia because the White House intentionally canceled my passport to trap me here. They *downed the President of Bolivia's diplomatic aircraft* to prevent me from leaving, and continue to interfere with my freedom of movement to this day.<br />
<br />
In case that was unclear. <a href="https://t.co/hOb2Azc41G">https://t.co/hOb2Azc41G</a></p>
— Edward Snowden (@Snowden) <a href="https://twitter.com/Snowden/status/1598753507519369216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-grants-snowden-russian-citizenship-people-ask-will-the-whisteblower-be-drafted-into-army-519919"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Putin grants Snowden Russian citizenship, people ask will the whisteblower be 'drafted into army'?</strong></a></p>

<p>As per media reports, Snowden's family has been living in Russia since then. They are living in an undisclosed location. His wife, Lindsay Mills is also said to be applying for Russian citizenship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Defenders of Snowden him as a modern-day renegade for revealing the US's espionage and alleged privacy violations. However, opposers remark him as a traitor who put lives in peril by divulging the US's reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Edward Snowden is in news once again. Former US intelligence whistleblower has received a Russian passport on Friday (Nov 02) after swearing an oath of allegiance to Russia.

Edward Snowden is in news once again. Former US intelligence whistleblower has received a Russian passport on Friday (Nov 02) after swearing an oath of allegiance to Russia. Snowden's lawyer Anatoly Kucherena told the news agency TASS, "Yes, he got [a passport], he took the oath." Also read | Who is Edward Snowden, the US whistleblower who just got Russian citizenship? Snowden was granted Russian citizenship by Russian President Vladimir Putin in September this year. The whistleblower has been wanted back in the US by the authorities for years to stand for investigations for espionage. He left the country after disclosing top-secret reports exposing surveillance practices of the US's National Security Agency (NSA). White House's official John Kirby told reporters on Friday over the report, "This is still a criminal investigative matter." I'm in Russia because the White House intentionally canceled my passport to trap me here. They *downed the President of Bolivia's diplomatic aircraft* to prevent me from leaving, and continue to interfere with my freedom of movement to this day. In case that was unclear. https://t.co/hOb2Azc41G — Edward Snowden (@Snowden) December 2, 2022 × Also read | Putin grants Snowden Russian citizenship, people ask will the whisteblower be 'drafted into army'? As per media reports, Snowden's family has been living in Russia since then. They are living in an undisclosed location. His wife, Lindsay Mills is also said to be applying for Russian citizenship. Defenders of Snowden him as a modern-day renegade for revealing the US's espionage and alleged privacy violations. However, opposers remark him as a traitor who put lives in peril by divulging the US's reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US whistleblower Edward Snowden gets Russian passport after swearing an oath to Russia

<p>In a noteworthy development, black-clad women from&nbsp;Iran's conservative region, Sistan-Baluchistan province, have also joined nationwide protests sparked by the custodial death of the 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The women-led protest began in mid-September after Mahsa Amini, 22, died after her arrest by morality police in Tehran over her inappropriate dress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-sunni-cleric-says-not-right-to-give-death-penalty-to-iranian-protesters-539587"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Top Sunni cleric says not right to give death penalty to Iranian protesters</strong></a></p>

<p>Videos were posted online showing several women in the Zahedan holding banners saying, "Woman, life, freedom."</p>

<p>Director of the NGO, Iran Human Rights,&nbsp;Mahmood Ammiry-Moghaddam on Friday said that protests in Zahedan province are 'rare' and mark a big shift. He added that the ongoing protests in the country are a beginning of a revolution for dignity in Iran.</p>

<p>Women and minorities, who are regarded as a second class, were empowered by these rallies to demand human rights, he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-protester-celebrating-irans-world-cup-exit-was-shot-dead-say-reports-538918"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;A protester celebrating Iran's World Cup exit was shot dead, say reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Baluchi women also took part in the protest as they are considered to be the 'most oppressed.'</p>

<p>Since the crackdown, at least 128 people have been killed in Sistan-Baluchistan. They dubbed September 30 as 'Black Friday,' as over 90 individuals were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran's officials said that thousands of Iranians and some 40 foreigners have been detained during the protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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In a noteworthy development, black-clad women from Iran's conservative region, Sistan-Baluchistan province, have also joined nationwide protests sparked by the custodial death of the 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini in September.

In a noteworthy development, black-clad women from Iran's conservative region, Sistan-Baluchistan province, have also joined nationwide protests sparked by the custodial death of the 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini in September. The women-led protest began in mid-September after Mahsa Amini, 22, died after her arrest by morality police in Tehran over her inappropriate dress. Also read | Top Sunni cleric says not right to give death penalty to Iranian protesters Videos were posted online showing several women in the Zahedan holding banners saying, "Woman, life, freedom." Director of the NGO, Iran Human Rights, Mahmood Ammiry-Moghaddam on Friday said that protests in Zahedan province are 'rare' and mark a big shift. He added that the ongoing protests in the country are a beginning of a revolution for dignity in Iran. Women and minorities, who are regarded as a second class, were empowered by these rallies to demand human rights, he added. Also read | A protester celebrating Iran's World Cup exit was shot dead, say reports Baluchi women also took part in the protest as they are considered to be the 'most oppressed.' Since the crackdown, at least 128 people have been killed in Sistan-Baluchistan. They dubbed September 30 as 'Black Friday,' as over 90 individuals were killed. Iran's officials said that thousands of Iranians and some 40 foreigners have been detained during the protests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Woman, life, freedom': Women from Iran's conservative province join anti-hijab protests 

<p>A group of individuals in Ukraine on Friday (Nov 02) attempted to steal a mural by one of the renowned graffiti artists, Banksy by cutting a portion of it from a battle-scarred wall, the capital's governor said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group was able to take a part of the painting that had an image of a woman in a gas mask and dressed in a gown holding a fire extinguisher on the side of the scorched building, Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-is-using-dummy-nuclear-capable-missiles-to-distract-air-defences-says-kyiv-539264"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russia is using dummy nuclear-capable missiles to distract air defences, claims Kyiv</strong></a></p>

<p>The governor in a statement said that the group were spotted in Hostomel at the scene and the mural was also retrieved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police posted&nbsp;images of the yellow scarred wall with a large path of cut out in the Hostomel. The group has been detained, the&nbsp;officials stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-upto-13000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-since-invasion-claims-zelenskys-adviser-539308"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed since invasion, claims Zelensky's adviser&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Banksy is a renowned artist known for his work on walls which can sell for millions of dollars in the art market. He confirmed that he had painted the mural and six others like it in places which were badly affected by the ongoing Russia conflict in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another famous mural by Banksy is of a gymnast girl performing a handstand on a small pile of concrete rubble. Another is of an old man having a bath.</p>

<p>Ongoing Russia's invasion of Ukraine has entered its tenth month. Infrastructure worth millions of dollars has been damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A group of individuals in Ukraine on Friday (Nov 02) attempted to steal a mural by one of the renowned graffiti artists, Banksy by cutting a portion of it from a battle-scarred wall, the capital's governor said.

A group of individuals in Ukraine on Friday (Nov 02) attempted to steal a mural by one of the renowned graffiti artists, Banksy by cutting a portion of it from a battle-scarred wall, the capital's governor said. The group was able to take a part of the painting that had an image of a woman in a gas mask and dressed in a gown holding a fire extinguisher on the side of the scorched building, Reuters reported. Also read | Russia is using dummy nuclear-capable missiles to distract air defences, claims Kyiv The governor in a statement said that the group were spotted in Hostomel at the scene and the mural was also retrieved. The police posted images of the yellow scarred wall with a large path of cut out in the Hostomel. The group has been detained, the officials stated. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed since invasion, claims Zelensky's adviser Banksy is a renowned artist known for his work on walls which can sell for millions of dollars in the art market. He confirmed that he had painted the mural and six others like it in places which were badly affected by the ongoing Russia conflict in the area. Another famous mural by Banksy is of a gymnast girl performing a handstand on a small pile of concrete rubble. Another is of an old man having a bath. Ongoing Russia's invasion of Ukraine has entered its tenth month. Infrastructure worth millions of dollars has been damaged. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine: Group steals Banksy's mural off a battle-scarred wall, detained in Hostomel

<p>Christopher Dawson, a 74-year-old Australian former high school teacher, has been sentenced to 24 years in jail over murdering his wife 40 years ago. The murder case was opened again in 2018 after the hit podcast "The Teacher's Pet" pressurised police for re-investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian Supreme Court in August found that Dawson deliberately killed his wife in January 1982 to have an affair with a young student who had babysat and was residing in his home at that time, Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-suitcase-murder-south-korea-extradites-the-42-year-old-suspect-538456"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;New Zealand 'suitcase murder': South Korea hands over the 42-year-old suspect to Wellington authorities</strong></a></p>

<p>During the hearing, Supreme Court judge Ian Harrison said that Dawson has enjoyed&nbsp;36 years in society, unhindered by the taint of conviction for killing his wife or by any penalty for doing so. He added that Dawson's refusal helped him in clearing his way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former teacher has denied all these allegations and said that his wife had left him at that time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dawson's attorney said that he intends to challenge the verdict. On Friday (Dec 01) he said, "Our system of justice and our democracy is based upon the presumption of innocence." He added Dawson maintains his 'innocence.'</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/payton-gendron-the-teen-responsible-for-may-supermarket-mass-shooting-pleads-guilty-to-spend-life-in-prison-538303"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Payton Gendron, the teen responsible for May supermarket mass shooting pleads guilty, to spend life in prison</strong></a></p>

<p>Dawson will be eligible to apply for parole when he reaches the age of 92 in 2040.</p>

<p>Dawson's lawyers claimed that the podcast, produced by News Corp's Australian Newspaper, deprived him of a fair trial because of how he was portrayed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, the podcast has been downloaded over 50 million times, which highlighted the case but not factored into the verdict. &nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Christopher Dawson, a 74-year-old Australian former high school teacher, has been sentenced to 24 years in jail over murdering his wife 40 years ago. The murder case was opened again in 2018 after the hit podcast "The Teacher's Pet" pressurised police for re-investigation.

Christopher Dawson, a 74-year-old Australian former high school teacher, has been sentenced to 24 years in jail over murdering his wife 40 years ago. The murder case was opened again in 2018 after the hit podcast "The Teacher's Pet" pressurised police for re-investigation. The Australian Supreme Court in August found that Dawson deliberately killed his wife in January 1982 to have an affair with a young student who had babysat and was residing in his home at that time, Reuters reported. Also read | New Zealand 'suitcase murder': South Korea hands over the 42-year-old suspect to Wellington authorities During the hearing, Supreme Court judge Ian Harrison said that Dawson has enjoyed 36 years in society, unhindered by the taint of conviction for killing his wife or by any penalty for doing so. He added that Dawson's refusal helped him in clearing his way. The former teacher has denied all these allegations and said that his wife had left him at that time. Dawson's attorney said that he intends to challenge the verdict. On Friday (Dec 01) he said, "Our system of justice and our democracy is based upon the presumption of innocence." He added Dawson maintains his 'innocence.' Also read | Payton Gendron, the teen responsible for May supermarket mass shooting pleads guilty, to spend life in prison Dawson will be eligible to apply for parole when he reaches the age of 92 in 2040. Dawson's lawyers claimed that the podcast, produced by News Corp's Australian Newspaper, deprived him of a fair trial because of how he was portrayed. As per reports, the podcast has been downloaded over 50 million times, which highlighted the case but not factored into the verdict. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Man gets 24 yrs in jail for wife's murder 40 yrs ago, made famous by 'The Teacher's Pet' podcast

<p>The Taliban on Thursday banned the FM radio broadcasts streaming from Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) Afghanistan stations, saying that they are stopped due to non-compliance with journalistic principles and one-sided broadcasts. Taking to Twitter, Abdul Haq Hammad, who oversees broadcasting for the Ministry of Information and Culture of the incumbent Afghan administration, said, "Radio Azadi (RL), which started broadcasting after the American occupation, was stopped due to non-compliance with journalistic principles and one-sided broadcasts," Khaama Press reported.</p>

<p>According to a tweet from Hammad, the Radio Azadi broadcasts have been banned in 13 Afghan provinces.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, VOA also reported that a new directive from the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture has placed a ban on VOA's broadcasts, effective from December 1.</p>

<p>The Voice of America television program, known as Ashna TV, which had previously been broadcast on the Tolo TV, TOLONews, and Lamar TV channels, was suspended on March 27 this year by the authorities in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>According to the VOA, the ban came a day after the Taliban's ministry of information and culture said it had received complaints about programming content but shared no specifics.</p>

<p>It is unclear whether the ban will apply to other international broadcasters that have used the same system for FM broadcasts in Afghanistan."Afghanistan has press laws, and any network found repeatedly contravening these laws will have their privilege of reporting from and broadcasting within Afghanistan taken away," Abdul Qahar Balkhi, who looks the incumbent Afghan administration`s foreign department, said in written comments to VOA. "VOA and Azadi Radio failed to adhere to these laws, were found as repeat offenders, failed to show professionalism and were therefore shut down," VOA quoted Balkhi as saying.</p>

<p>Voice of America began airing radio programs in Dari and Pashto in Afghanistan in October 1980 and July 1982, respectively. Radio Azadi officially started broadcasting in Afghanistan in 2002.</p>

<p>There were 547 media outlets in Afghanistan during the previous administration, according to Reporters Without Borders, but 219 print, aural, and visual media were shut down after the current administration assumed power, according to Khaama Press.</p>

<p>Since taking over last year, the government has placed a number of limitations on the media and journalists in Afghanistan, including mandating female presenters t cover their faces while on air.</p>

<p>Free press organizations have slammed them with pervasive media censorship and muzzling, harassing reporters, and depriving female media workers of the right to employment, Khaama Press reported.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Taliban on Thursday banned the FM radio broadcasts streaming from Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) Afghanistan stations, saying that they are stopped due to non-compliance with journalistic principles and one-sided broadcasts.

The Taliban on Thursday banned the FM radio broadcasts streaming from Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) Afghanistan stations, saying that they are stopped due to non-compliance with journalistic principles and one-sided broadcasts. Taking to Twitter, Abdul Haq Hammad, who oversees broadcasting for the Ministry of Information and Culture of the incumbent Afghan administration, said, "Radio Azadi (RL), which started broadcasting after the American occupation, was stopped due to non-compliance with journalistic principles and one-sided broadcasts," Khaama Press reported. According to a tweet from Hammad, the Radio Azadi broadcasts have been banned in 13 Afghan provinces. Meanwhile, VOA also reported that a new directive from the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture has placed a ban on VOA's broadcasts, effective from December 1. The Voice of America television program, known as Ashna TV, which had previously been broadcast on the Tolo TV, TOLONews, and Lamar TV channels, was suspended on March 27 this year by the authorities in Afghanistan. According to the VOA, the ban came a day after the Taliban's ministry of information and culture said it had received complaints about programming content but shared no specifics. It is unclear whether the ban will apply to other international broadcasters that have used the same system for FM broadcasts in Afghanistan."Afghanistan has press laws, and any network found repeatedly contravening these laws will have their privilege of reporting from and broadcasting within Afghanistan taken away," Abdul Qahar Balkhi, who looks the incumbent Afghan administration`s foreign department, said in written comments to VOA. "VOA and Azadi Radio failed to adhere to these laws, were found as repeat offenders, failed to show professionalism and were therefore shut down," VOA quoted Balkhi as saying. Voice of America began airing radio programs in Dari and Pashto in Afghanistan in October 1980 and July 1982, respectively. Radio Azadi officially started broadcasting in Afghanistan in 2002. There were 547 media outlets in Afghanistan during the previous administration, according to Reporters Without Borders, but 219 print, aural, and visual media were shut down after the current administration assumed power, according to Khaama Press. Since taking over last year, the government has placed a number of limitations on the media and journalists in Afghanistan, including mandating female presenters t cover their faces while on air. Free press organizations have slammed them with pervasive media censorship and muzzling, harassing reporters, and depriving female media workers of the right to employment, Khaama Press reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban ban Voice of America, RFE/RL for 'one-sided' broadcasts

<p>Donald Trump was dealt a major blow on Thursday (December 1) as an appeals court rejected his efforts to stop prosecutors from examining thousands of government documents at his Florida home. In other news, US President Joe Biden said Thursday he is open to holding talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but only if he wants to end the war. Finally, India on Thursday dismissed China's objection to the joint India-US military exercise near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) on Uttarakhand's Auli.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-deals-big-setback-to-donald-trump-in-mar-a-lago-documents-issue-539271"><strong>Court deals big setback to Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents issue&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/20/312206-107128109-16648001822022-10-02t011735z139865886rc2osw9up19grtrmadp0usa-trump.jpeg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The federal appeals court in Atlanta, Georgia unanimously overruled a previous order by a Florida judge to appoint a "special master" to review documents seized at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach in August, preventing the Justice Department from using them in its investigation of Trump's behaviour in the case of the documents.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-ready-to-talk-to-putin-but-only-if-he-wants-to-end-the-war-539254"><strong>Biden says ready to talk to Putin, but only if he wants to end the war</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/02/315080-untitled-design-52.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>At a joint news conference, Biden said, "I'm prepared to speak with Mr. Putin if in fact there is an interest in him deciding he's looking for a way to end the war. He hasn't done that yet."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If that's the case, in consultation with my French and my NATO friends, I'll be happy to sit down with Putin to see what he has in mind. He hasn't done that yet."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rejects-chinese-objections-on-indo-us-military-exercise-near-lac-539273"><strong>India rejects Chinese objections on Indo-US military exercise near LAC</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/06/04/267885-966989-bagchi.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>India's foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the joint exercises with the United States in Auli have nothing to do with the 1993 and 1996 agreements with China.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"But since these were raised by the Chinese side, I must emphasise that the Chinese side needs to reflect and think about its own breach of the agreements of 1993 and 1996," Bagchi said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Global Technology Summit: India has advocated dialogue, diplomacy: S Jaishankar to WION</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;‘Farmgate’ Corruption Scandal: Ramaphosa delays parliament appearance</strong></p>

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Donald Trump was dealt a major blow on Thursday (December 1) as an appeals court rejected his efforts to stop prosecutors from examining thousands of government documents at his Florida home.

Donald Trump was dealt a major blow on Thursday (December 1) as an appeals court rejected his efforts to stop prosecutors from examining thousands of government documents at his Florida home. In other news, US President Joe Biden said Thursday he is open to holding talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but only if he wants to end the war. Finally, India on Thursday dismissed China's objection to the joint India-US military exercise near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) on Uttarakhand's Auli. Click on the headlines to read more: Court deals big setback to Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents issue The federal appeals court in Atlanta, Georgia unanimously overruled a previous order by a Florida judge to appoint a "special master" to review documents seized at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach in August, preventing the Justice Department from using them in its investigation of Trump's behaviour in the case of the documents. Biden says ready to talk to Putin, but only if he wants to end the war At a joint news conference, Biden said, "I'm prepared to speak with Mr. Putin if in fact there is an interest in him deciding he's looking for a way to end the war. He hasn't done that yet." "If that's the case, in consultation with my French and my NATO friends, I'll be happy to sit down with Putin to see what he has in mind. He hasn't done that yet." India rejects Chinese objections on Indo-US military exercise near LAC India's foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the joint exercises with the United States in Auli have nothing to do with the 1993 and 1996 agreements with China. "But since these were raised by the Chinese side, I must emphasise that the Chinese side needs to reflect and think about its own breach of the agreements of 1993 and 1996," Bagchi said. Watch | Global Technology Summit: India has advocated dialogue, diplomacy: S Jaishankar to WION Watch | ‘Farmgate’ Corruption Scandal: Ramaphosa delays parliament appearance

Morning news brief: Setback for Trump, India rejects Chinese objection and more

<p>The rape case retrial against former political adviser Bruce Lehrmann has been dropped, as it poses a "significant and unacceptable risk" to the woman complainant's life.&nbsp;The 27-year-old former adviser was accused of raping his colleague Brittany Higgins inside Australia's Parliament House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the accuser, on March 22, 2019, Lehrmann&nbsp;sexually assaulted her on a minister's sofa after a night out. She said both had drinks with colleagues and others and she later fell asleep on a sofa in defence industry minister Linda Reynolds's office, and had woken up to find Lehrmann having sex with her.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-court-begins-trial-of-former-staffer-bruce-lehrmann-accused-of-sexual-assault-in-parliament-house-522340"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Australian court begins trial of former staffer Bruce Lehrmann accused of sexual assault in Parliament House</strong></a></p>

<p>Lehrmann denied doing so. He maintained that no sex took place. His lawyer said that Higgins's accusations are "totally and utterly inconsistent."&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the prosecutor said that the ongoing risk to Higgins's mental health for retrial is not in the public interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case was dropped in October due to misconduct by the jury. This is because after 12 days of testimony and five days of discussion in the trial,&nbsp;it was found that one of the jurors had brought in academic research papers looking at false accusations in the sexual assault case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Australia rape case: Brittany Higgins vs Bruce Lehrmann; After a 12-day trial, Jury discharged</strong></p>

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<p>Higgins's friend Emma Webster said that she is currently in the hospital for treatment to deal with the trauma of the alleged incident. In a statement, Webster said that the last couple of years were difficult for Higgins and that she is disappointed that the trial has ended in this way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Higgins waived her right to privacy by disclosing her narrative to authorities in early 2021 and went public with her allegations in some television interviews.</p>

<p>Her&nbsp;accusations acted as the catalyst for Australia's "Me Too moment," which then sparked demonstrations over women's safety. She reported her case days after the incident as she feared for her career, a jury head claimed.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The incident led to a damning review the finding of which showed that a third of the woman employees in the federal parliament had faced sexual harassment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The rape case retrial against former political adviser Bruce Lehrmann has been dropped, as it poses a "significant and unacceptable risk" to the woman complainant's life.

The rape case retrial against former political adviser Bruce Lehrmann has been dropped, as it poses a "significant and unacceptable risk" to the woman complainant's life. The 27-year-old former adviser was accused of raping his colleague Brittany Higgins inside Australia's Parliament House. As per the accuser, on March 22, 2019, Lehrmann sexually assaulted her on a minister's sofa after a night out. She said both had drinks with colleagues and others and she later fell asleep on a sofa in defence industry minister Linda Reynolds's office, and had woken up to find Lehrmann having sex with her. Also read | Australian court begins trial of former staffer Bruce Lehrmann accused of sexual assault in Parliament House Lehrmann denied doing so. He maintained that no sex took place. His lawyer said that Higgins's accusations are "totally and utterly inconsistent." However, the prosecutor said that the ongoing risk to Higgins's mental health for retrial is not in the public interest. The case was dropped in October due to misconduct by the jury. This is because after 12 days of testimony and five days of discussion in the trial, it was found that one of the jurors had brought in academic research papers looking at false accusations in the sexual assault case. Watch | Australia rape case: Brittany Higgins vs Bruce Lehrmann; After a 12-day trial, Jury discharged Higgins's friend Emma Webster said that she is currently in the hospital for treatment to deal with the trauma of the alleged incident. In a statement, Webster said that the last couple of years were difficult for Higgins and that she is disappointed that the trial has ended in this way. Higgins waived her right to privacy by disclosing her narrative to authorities in early 2021 and went public with her allegations in some television interviews. Her accusations acted as the catalyst for Australia's "Me Too moment," which then sparked demonstrations over women's safety. She reported her case days after the incident as she feared for her career, a jury head claimed. The incident led to a damning review the finding of which showed that a third of the woman employees in the federal parliament had faced sexual harassment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australia: Rape retrial against Bruce Lehrmann dropped due to fears over accuser Higgins's mental health 

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior military adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died since the start of Moscow's special military operation.</p>

<p>He told Ukrainian TV media outlet Channel 24 that Kyiv is now openly talking about the numbers of the killed. Podolyak said, "We have official evaluations by the General Staff, official evaluations by the commander-in-chief [Mr Zelensky], and they range from 10,000 to 12,500-13,000 killed."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-calls-for-us-france-to-be-brothers-in-arms-during-white-house-visit-539216"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for committing 'war crimes' in Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>He added that the number of civilians killed could be "significant."</p>

<p>It's rare for Ukraine to reveal casualty figures. The numbers given by Podolyak have not been confirmed, BBC reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In June, he claimed that nearly 100 to 200 Ukraine's soldiers died every day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the EU Commission head Ursula Von der Leyen had during a video address on Wednesday (Nov 30) claimed that 100,000 Ukrainian troops had been killed. However, EU later clarified that the figures referred to both killed and wounded.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-ukrainian-diplomatic-missions-receive-threatening-letters-soaked-in-red-liquid-539248"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Three Ukrainian diplomatic missions receive threatening letters soaked in red liquid</strong></a></p>

<p>Moscow's special military operation began on February 24, which till now has claimed the lives of 20,000 Ukrainian civilians, Leyen had claimed.</p>

<p>The Russian invasion has reached its ninth month and world leaders are still in talks to find ways to stop it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior military adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died since the start of Moscow's special military operation. He told Ukrainian TV media outlet Channel 24 that Kyiv is now openly talking about the numbers of the killed. Podolyak said, "We have official evaluations by the General Staff, official evaluations by the commander-in-chief [Mr Zelensky], and they range from 10,000 to 12,500-13,000 killed." Also read | Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for committing 'war crimes' in Ukraine He added that the number of civilians killed could be "significant." It's rare for Ukraine to reveal casualty figures. The numbers given by Podolyak have not been confirmed, BBC reported. In June, he claimed that nearly 100 to 200 Ukraine's soldiers died every day. Earlier, the EU Commission head Ursula Von der Leyen had during a video address on Wednesday (Nov 30) claimed that 100,000 Ukrainian troops had been killed. However, EU later clarified that the figures referred to both killed and wounded. Also read | Three Ukrainian diplomatic missions receive threatening letters soaked in red liquid Moscow's special military operation began on February 24, which till now has claimed the lives of 20,000 Ukrainian civilians, Leyen had claimed. The Russian invasion has reached its ninth month and world leaders are still in talks to find ways to stop it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine war: Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed since invasion, claims Zelensky's adviser 

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping in a meeting with EU's Council President Charles Michel urged for 'political means'&nbsp;for Ukraine as the best solution to solve the ongoing conflict which will&nbsp;serve&nbsp;as the common interest for countries in "Eurasia." He added that countries need to work for peace and should avoid expansion or escalation of the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement comes after he met with the president of the European Council Charles Michel. China has made similar statements in past while refusing to criticise or condemn Russia's invasion.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-meets-eu-chief-charles-michel-says-china-hopes-for-fair-and-transparent-ties-539017"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;President Xi meets EU's Charles Michel, says China hopes for fair and transparent ties</strong></a></p>

<p>The EU's council chief came for a day visit to Bejing, after Xi's invitation. Michel has urged the Chinese President to use his influence with Russia to respect the UN charter and Ukraine's sovereignty. He said that the activities in Ukraine are highly unacceptable and dangerous as well, AP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Chinese President and Russian President Vladimir Putin share a strong bond. Weeks before Moscow's invasion began, both leaders affirmed their bond as having "no limits." Beijing even stepped up its oil purchases from Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michel's visit also seeks to balance the EU's wish for more exports to China, raised issues on human rights and the need for a peaceful assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, Michel told reporters that he raised human rights issues during the meeting including the issue of Muslim minorities in Xinjiang who are being forcefully assimilated to eradicate their religion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-upto-13000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-since-invasion-claims-zelenskys-adviser-539308"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed since invasion, claims Zelensky's adviser&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Beijing on the other hand has denied all these allegations saying that it has been waging campaigns in&nbsp;eliminating&nbsp;terrorism and extremism in the country. It added that it's been trying to create job opportunities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China has been engaged in a violent environment since a few days after citizens angry about the Covid policies and lockdowns began protesting. The Asian country witnessed its largest protest in three decades which was conducted last week as people in Beijing and Shanghai took to the streets. Several have been detained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also visited China. Scholz also urged Xi to use his influence in Russia and raised human rights issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Chinese President Xi Jinping in a meeting with EU's Council President Charles Michel urged for 'political means' for Ukraine as the best solution to solve the ongoing conflict which will serve as the common interest for countries in "Eurasia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping in a meeting with EU's Council President Charles Michel urged for 'political means' for Ukraine as the best solution to solve the ongoing conflict which will serve as the common interest for countries in "Eurasia." He added that countries need to work for peace and should avoid expansion or escalation of the war. The statement comes after he met with the president of the European Council Charles Michel. China has made similar statements in past while refusing to criticise or condemn Russia's invasion. Also read | President Xi meets EU's Charles Michel, says China hopes for fair and transparent ties The EU's council chief came for a day visit to Bejing, after Xi's invitation. Michel has urged the Chinese President to use his influence with Russia to respect the UN charter and Ukraine's sovereignty. He said that the activities in Ukraine are highly unacceptable and dangerous as well, AP reported. Both Chinese President and Russian President Vladimir Putin share a strong bond. Weeks before Moscow's invasion began, both leaders affirmed their bond as having "no limits." Beijing even stepped up its oil purchases from Russia. Michel's visit also seeks to balance the EU's wish for more exports to China, raised issues on human rights and the need for a peaceful assembly. On Thursday, Michel told reporters that he raised human rights issues during the meeting including the issue of Muslim minorities in Xinjiang who are being forcefully assimilated to eradicate their religion. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed since invasion, claims Zelensky's adviser Beijing on the other hand has denied all these allegations saying that it has been waging campaigns in eliminating terrorism and extremism in the country. It added that it's been trying to create job opportunities. China has been engaged in a violent environment since a few days after citizens angry about the Covid policies and lockdowns began protesting. The Asian country witnessed its largest protest in three decades which was conducted last week as people in Beijing and Shanghai took to the streets. Several have been detained. Earlier German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also visited China. Scholz also urged Xi to use his influence in Russia and raised human rights issues. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese President Xi Jinping urges for 'Ukraine talks' in a meeting with EU's council chief Michel

<p>Ever since India's Supreme Court decriminalised gay sex in 2018 after decades-long legal battles, the awareness about the community has increased but the members still face stigma and a barrier to getting acceptance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The same is the story of Adhila Nasarin and Fathima Noora, a couple who later made headlines this year when a Kerala court brought the two together after their families separated them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-couple-pen-heartfelt-note-to-army-in-wedding-invite-heres-how-army-responded-536529"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Couple pen heartfelt note to Army in wedding invite; here's how Army responded</strong></a></p>

<p>This time, the duo posed as brides for a wedding picture session under a canopy by the sea, where they exchanged rings and rose garlands wearing beautiful lehengas, BBC reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cheerful moment comes after, both Nasarin and Noora filed a court petition against the opposition faced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Noora, 23, posted a picture on Facebook. The post read, "ACHIEVEMENT UNLOCKED: TOGETHER FOREVER."&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjlENYqhlTH/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Fathima Noora (@noora_adhila)</a></p>
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<p>Both met in high school and came&nbsp;close. They stayed in touch via video calls and chats as their families live in different areas of Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a telephonic interview with BBC Nasarin said, "We just tried the photoshoot because we thought the idea was interesting." She added that they both aren't married yet, but took a part in such a photo shoot. She said that at some point they both liked to be.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lgbtiqa-1-in-12-young-adults-in-uk-identifies-as-lesbian-gay-or-bisexual-482311"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;LGBTIQA+: 1 in 12 young adults in UK identifies as lesbian, gay or bisexual</strong></a></p>

<p>The couple claims they are still threatened with separation from Noora's family.</p>

<p>Same-sex unions are not recognised by Indian law, while the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court are now debating legalisation petitions. However, the Kerala High Court have permitted Noora and Nasarin to be together but they are not entitled to any rights or advantages that a married couple does.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasarin though said frustratingly that wherever they go, they had to use their father's name or husband's name. She said, "We were at a hospital recently and had to give our fathers names. It was frustrating."</p>

<p>Both are relying on one another and LGBTQ+ organisations like Vanaja Collective to help them get together because their families and communities are not supporting them. The support groups are giving advice to complete their studies and find a job.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They claimed that their families still think that their relationship is a phase and similar remarks appear on their social media profiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Ever since India's Supreme Court decriminalised gay sex in 2018 after decades-long legal battles, the awareness about the community has increased but the members still face stigma and a barrier to getting acceptance.

Ever since India's Supreme Court decriminalised gay sex in 2018 after decades-long legal battles, the awareness about the community has increased but the members still face stigma and a barrier to getting acceptance. The same is the story of Adhila Nasarin and Fathima Noora, a couple who later made headlines this year when a Kerala court brought the two together after their families separated them. Also read | India: Couple pen heartfelt note to Army in wedding invite; here's how Army responded This time, the duo posed as brides for a wedding picture session under a canopy by the sea, where they exchanged rings and rose garlands wearing beautiful lehengas, BBC reported. The cheerful moment comes after, both Nasarin and Noora filed a court petition against the opposition faced. Noora, 23, posted a picture on Facebook. The post read, "ACHIEVEMENT UNLOCKED: TOGETHER FOREVER." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fathima Noora (@noora_adhila) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fathima Noora (@noora_adhila) × Both met in high school and came close. They stayed in touch via video calls and chats as their families live in different areas of Kerala. In a telephonic interview with BBC Nasarin said, "We just tried the photoshoot because we thought the idea was interesting." She added that they both aren't married yet, but took a part in such a photo shoot. She said that at some point they both liked to be. Also read | LGBTIQA+: 1 in 12 young adults in UK identifies as lesbian, gay or bisexual The couple claims they are still threatened with separation from Noora's family. Same-sex unions are not recognised by Indian law, while the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court are now debating legalisation petitions. However, the Kerala High Court have permitted Noora and Nasarin to be together but they are not entitled to any rights or advantages that a married couple does. Nasarin though said frustratingly that wherever they go, they had to use their father's name or husband's name. She said, "We were at a hospital recently and had to give our fathers names. It was frustrating." Both are relying on one another and LGBTQ+ organisations like Vanaja Collective to help them get together because their families and communities are not supporting them. The support groups are giving advice to complete their studies and find a job. They claimed that their families still think that their relationship is a phase and similar remarks appear on their social media profiles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Together Forever': Indian lesbian couple Noora and Adhila pose as 'brides' in a photoshoot. Take a look!

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