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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of violating a proposed energy ceasefire within hours of US President Donald Trump announcing that Moscow and Kyiv had agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. Zelensky said Russian strikes hit six Ukrainian energy facilities, including gas production sites and power infrastructure. The attacks left 33 people injured, he said, as Ukraine questioned whether Moscow intended to honour the arrangement.“We did not attack, while Russia attacked our gas stations, energy infrastructure, and other facilities,” Zelensky told Fox News on Monday (Oct 12), adding that he believed the strikes were "(Russian President Vladimir) Putin's answer to President Trump".Trump announced the ceasefire on Sunday, declaring on social media that it was “effective immediately”. However, Zelensky said Kyiv had not been informed of the arrangement in advance and was still waiting for details from Washington.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-russian-diesel-deal-fuel-prices-backlash-1791828042517">Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices</a><h2>Blackouts reported after Russian strikes</h2>Ukraine’s state news agency Ukrinform reported power outages in Izyum after a Russian strike damaged electricity infrastructure. Energy and railway facilities in western Ukraine were also targeted overnight.Zelensky said Russia launched a targeted strike on a power plant in Kharkiv shortly after Trump’s announcement. He also referred to a Russian Shahed drone strike on a Ukrainian gas production facility around midnight.Despite the attacks, the Ukrainian president said Kyiv was prepared to honour the ceasefire if Russia did the same. “We agree if they agree, and we have already shown that we mean it,” Zelensky said during a video address to the Warsaw Security Forum on Monday.Ukraine had also indicated its willingness to halt attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. In an interview with ABC News on Sunday, Zelensky said Kyiv was open to the arrangement if Moscow stopped striking Ukrainian targets.The Kremlin offered little clarity on the terms of the proposed truce. Asked about the announcement and Zelensky’s allegations, spokesman Dmitry Peskov said “contacts are ongoing” but declined to provide further details.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-readying-to-strike-iran-report-suggests-trump-preparing-to-put-on-show-of-strength-ahead-of-us-midterms-1791433671334">US readying to strike Iran? Report suggests Trump preparing to put on show of strength ahead of US midterms</a><h2>Lavrov questions whether Ukraine ‘deserves’ ceasefire; Zelensky says election not possible</h2>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov meanwhile cast doubt on the prospect of a broader pause in fighting, saying Ukraine did not deserve the respite that a ceasefire would bring. “I do not believe he has earned such a respite, nor do I think we will once again fall for assurances and promises.”His remarks followed Zelensky’s suggestion that a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days could create the conditions for elections in Ukraine. Zelensky ruled out holding a vote while Russian attacks continued, citing security concerns. “From a security standpoint, that’s completely impossible. We have attacks day and night,” he said.Zelensky added that he would be ready to work towards holding elections if a full ceasefire of 60 days or longer were established.The Kremlin, meanwhile, said Putin would be willing to halt attacks on Ukraine on election day itself if Kyiv genuinely intended to hold elections. &nbsp;

Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of violating Donald Trump’s proposed energy ceasefire within hours of its announcement. Kyiv reported strikes on energy facilities, injuries and power outages.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of violating a proposed energy ceasefire within hours of US President Donald Trump announcing that Moscow and Kyiv had agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. Zelensky said Russian strikes hit six Ukrainian energy facilities, including gas production sites and power infrastructure. The attacks left 33 people injured, he said, as Ukraine questioned whether Moscow intended to honour the arrangement. “We did not attack, while Russia attacked our gas stations, energy infrastructure, and other facilities,” Zelensky told Fox News on Monday (Oct 12), adding that he believed the strikes were "(Russian President Vladimir) Putin's answer to President Trump". Trump announced the ceasefire on Sunday, declaring on social media that it was “effective immediately”. However, Zelensky said Kyiv had not been informed of the arrangement in advance and was still waiting for details from Washington. Also read | Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices Blackouts reported after Russian strikes Ukraine’s state news agency Ukrinform reported power outages in Izyum after a Russian strike damaged electricity infrastructure. Energy and railway facilities in western Ukraine were also targeted overnight. Zelensky said Russia launched a targeted strike on a power plant in Kharkiv shortly after Trump’s announcement. He also referred to a Russian Shahed drone strike on a Ukrainian gas production facility around midnight. Despite the attacks, the Ukrainian president said Kyiv was prepared to honour the ceasefire if Russia did the same. “We agree if they agree, and we have already shown that we mean it,” Zelensky said during a video address to the Warsaw Security Forum on Monday. Ukraine had also indicated its willingness to halt attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. In an interview with ABC News on Sunday, Zelensky said Kyiv was open to the arrangement if Moscow stopped striking Ukrainian targets. The Kremlin offered little clarity on the terms of the proposed truce. Asked about the announcement and Zelensky’s allegations, spokesman Dmitry Peskov said “contacts are ongoing” but declined to provide further details. Also read | US readying to strike Iran? Report suggests Trump preparing to put on show of strength ahead of US midterms Lavrov questions whether Ukraine ‘deserves’ ceasefire; Zelensky says election not possible Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov meanwhile cast doubt on the prospect of a broader pause in fighting, saying Ukraine did not deserve the respite that a ceasefire would bring. “I do not believe he has earned such a respite, nor do I think we will once again fall for assurances and promises.” His remarks followed Zelensky’s suggestion that a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days could create the conditions for elections in Ukraine. Zelensky ruled out holding a vote while Russian attacks continued, citing security concerns. “From a security standpoint, that’s completely impossible. We have attacks day and night,” he said. Zelensky added that he would be ready to work towards holding elections if a full ceasefire of 60 days or longer were established. The Kremlin, meanwhile, said Putin would be willing to halt attacks on Ukraine on election day itself if Kyiv genuinely intended to hold elections.

Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of violating Donald Trump’s proposed energy ceasefire within hours of its announcement. Kyiv reported strikes on energy facilities, injuries and power outages.

'Putin's answer to Trump': Zelensky accuses Russia of violating energy ceasefire within hours of announcement; six energy facilities hit

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Oct 13, local time) has dismissed claims that China and Russia are helping Iran, while slamming the lefts of his country. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that he believes that Russia and China has a lot to lose if they help Iran, adding that even if they are doing so it is at a “very low-level.” He also said that &nbsp;Washington would quickly know if they were providing support to Tehran. In his post, Trump primarily slammed those whom he called “radical left morons and lunatics.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-may-meet-north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-during-upcoming-asia-trip-1791844101686">Trump says he 'may' meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un</a>&nbsp;Trump said: “I see so many comments from the Radical Left Morons and Lunatics that China and Russia are helping the “wonderful” Islamic Republic of Iran. If they are, it’s at a very low level, but I don’t believe they are at all. They have too much to lose, and we would know about it, and know about it very fast! Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

Trump had previously brushed off reports that Chinese entities supplied satellite imagery to Iran ahead of a July 17, 2026, drone and ballistic missile strike on Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan – which killed three U.S. soldiers, comparing it to routine espionage between nations. "You know, when they say that China spies on us, I say you're right, and we spy on them too," Trump said a day after The Wall Street Journal reported Beijing's intelligence sharing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-energy-ceasefire-between-russia-and-ukraine-1791728338212">Trump claims ‘energy ceasefire’ between Russia and Ukraine</a>&nbsp;In July, Trump also claimed with a post on Truth Social that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin personally assured him they would not provide or sell weapons to Iran. He warned that any active involvement would be "very bad" and “not in their best interests.” "President Xi, at our recent meeting in Beijing, China, told me that he would not, under any circumstances, give or sell Weapons to the Islamic Republic of Iran — And that statement included Chinese Companies. Considering our relationship, I take him at his word and, besides, l am doing him very big favors, also," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. "Therefore, two major Countries that people speak of often in terms of Iran are, in my opinion, not participating. If they did, it would be very bad for them — Certainly not in their best interests," Trump had said.

US President Donald Trump has dismissed claims that China and Russia are helping Iran, saying any assistance would be minimal, if it exists at all. Trump argued that both countries have too much to lose

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Oct 13, local time) has dismissed claims that China and Russia are helping Iran, while slamming the lefts of his country. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that he believes that Russia and China has a lot to lose if they help Iran, adding that even if they are doing so it is at a “very low-level.” He also said that Washington would quickly know if they were providing support to Tehran. In his post, Trump primarily slammed those whom he called “radical left morons and lunatics.” Also Read: Trump says he 'may' meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Trump said: “I see so many comments from the Radical Left Morons and Lunatics that China and Russia are helping the “wonderful” Islamic Republic of Iran. If they are, it’s at a very low level, but I don’t believe they are at all. They have too much to lose, and we would know about it, and know about it very fast! Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

US President Donald Trump has dismissed claims that China and Russia are helping Iran, saying any assistance would be minimal, if it exists at all. Trump argued that both countries have too much to lose

Trump says Russia, China have ‘too much to lose’ if they help Iran; slams ‘radical left’

United States President Donald Trump began his campiagn week of red-state with first rally in Ohio, where Republicans are fighting to hold onto a Senate seat that could be key to the majority. Trump criticized Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic Senate nominee in Michigan, at a rally for Republican candidates in Youngstown, Ohio. As Trump took the stage and targeted the Democratic leaders, &nbsp;chants of “deport” echoed at the venue. The 2026 United States midterm elections are scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Nov 3).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-not-be-silenced-ilhan-omar-alleges-political-intimidation-after-federal-officers-search-her-washington-home-1791835502590">'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation after federal officers search her Washington home</a>&nbsp;On calls to deport Ilhan Omar, Trump said: “I don’t know what they’re doing with it, but I can tell you this: She’s a disaster.” He went on to target immigrants from Somalia and Haiti. “She comes in from a country without laws, without police, without military, where all they do is shoot each other, and she comes into our country and she says, ‘I have a constitutional right,’” Trump said. “She’s telling us about the Constitution, and she comes from one of the worst countries anywhere on the planet," Trump added. The president then spoke of Somali gang activity in Minnesota and mentioned a thwarted shooting at the state’s Mall of America, alleging that it was plotted by an American-born US citizen of Somali descent.<h2>Trump targets El-Sayed</h2>Trump also targeted El-Sayed in the same speech. He called him “crazy.” “You look at the guy running in Michigan. He’s a jihadist.” Trump went on to praise El-Sayed’s Republican opponent, former Rep. Mike Rogers, before he again referred to El-Sayed as a “jihadist” and proclaimed that “Somalia bandits, Third World gangsters, jihadist sympathizers do not belong in Ohio." He added: “They don’t belong in America. Better get them the hell out of here.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ilhan-omar-home-raided-immigration-paperwork-fraud-investigation-1791819031011">US federal agents raid Dem Rep Ilhan Omar’s home ahead of midterms</a>&nbsp;<h2>Search at Ilhan Omar's house</h2>This came after Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the search was conducted on Ilhan Omar's house as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. A Justice Department spokesperson said that Homeland Security Investigations “executed a judicially authorized search warrant” as “part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation.” The statement did not specify that the investigation was related to Omar, nor did it provide more information about the search. Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota reacted saying “I'm ok.” “Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced,” she added in a post on X. Speaking to reporters Monday afternoon, Trump said he had “nothing to do” with the search of Omar’s home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump targeted Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar and Michigan Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed at an Ohio rally, calling Omar a “disaster” and El-Sayed a “jihadist”. His remarks triggered chants of “deport” as Omar accused Trump of political intimidation.

United States President Donald Trump began his campiagn week of red-state with first rally in Ohio, where Republicans are fighting to hold onto a Senate seat that could be key to the majority. Trump criticized Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic Senate nominee in Michigan, at a rally for Republican candidates in Youngstown, Ohio. As Trump took the stage and targeted the Democratic leaders, chants of “deport” echoed at the venue. The 2026 United States midterm elections are scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Nov 3). Also Read: 'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation after federal officers search her Washington home On calls to deport Ilhan Omar, Trump said: “I don’t know what they’re doing with it, but I can tell you this: She’s a disaster.” He went on to target immigrants from Somalia and Haiti. “She comes in from a country without laws, without police, without military, where all they do is shoot each other, and she comes into our country and she says, ‘I have a constitutional right,’” Trump said. “She’s telling us about the Constitution, and she comes from one of the worst countries anywhere on the planet," Trump added. The president then spoke of Somali gang activity in Minnesota and mentioned a thwarted shooting at the state’s Mall of America, alleging that it was plotted by an American-born US citizen of Somali descent. Trump targets El-Sayed Trump also targeted El-Sayed in the same speech. He called him “crazy.” “You look at the guy running in Michigan. He’s a jihadist.” Trump went on to praise El-Sayed’s Republican opponent, former Rep. Mike Rogers, before he again referred to El-Sayed as a “jihadist” and proclaimed that “Somalia bandits, Third World gangsters, jihadist sympathizers do not belong in Ohio." He added: “They don’t belong in America. Better get them the hell out of here.” Also Read: US federal agents raid Dem Rep Ilhan Omar’s home ahead of midterms Search at Ilhan Omar's house This came after Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the search was conducted on Ilhan Omar's house as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. A Justice Department spokesperson said that Homeland Security Investigations “executed a judicially authorized search warrant” as “part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation.” The statement did not specify that the investigation was related to Omar, nor did it provide more information about the search. Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota reacted saying “I'm ok.” “Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced,” she added in a post on X. Speaking to reporters Monday afternoon, Trump said he had “nothing to do” with the search of Omar’s home.

US President Donald Trump targeted Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar and Michigan Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed at an Ohio rally, calling Omar a “disaster” and El-Sayed a “jihadist”. His remarks triggered chants of “deport” as Omar accused Trump of political intimidation.

‘She’s a disaster’: Trump attacks Ilhan Omar at Ohio rally, calls Abdul El-Sayed a ‘jihadist’

An individual has died, and several others were injured in an incident on a rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, an amusement park in the US state of Georgia. The incident occurred nearly 15 miles (24km) from Atlanta, and the Cobb County Police Department is investigating the mishap. Meanwhile, police did not mention the ride's involvement; however, aerial footage from news helicopters showed the Goliath rollercoaster stopping midway, with workers helping riders off. In response to the incident, Six Flags Over Georgia said it was "deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the guest's family, friends, and loved ones." Authorities have not yet confirmed how the person died. &nbsp;"The man fell from the rollercoaster onto the roof of a haunted house attraction," a witness told Local 11Alive. A park spokesperson said its team and local officials responded immediately after the incident and began supporting the probe.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/magnitude-6-1-earthquake-strikes-panama-days-after-powerful-7-7-quake-1791858795641">Magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes Panama days after powerful 7.7 quake</a><h3>The Goliath ride</h3>Mableton Mayor Michael Owens said the city’s public safety director was working alongside local police and park security to respond to the incident. According to the park’s website, the Goliath ride, which debuted in 2006, reaches a height of 200ft (60m), features a 170ft drop and a 540-degree spiral, and hits speeds of up to 70mph (112km/h). Six Flags rates the ride a four out of five on its internal thrill scale. Monday’s fatality adds to a string of deaths at the Georgia park, according to personal injury attorneys tracking the incidents. The news comes just a month after Six Flags Magic Mountain in Southern California announced it would retire its well-known X2 roller coaster, following lawsuits alleging the ride caused serious brain injuries. The company recently settled a wrongful-death suit brought by the family of a 22-year-old man who died after riding the coaster in 2022, and three additional lawsuits alleging traumatic brain injuries were filed just last week.

 According to the park’s website, the Goliath ride, which debuted in 2006, reaches a height of 200ft (60m), features a 170ft drop and a 540-degree spiral, and hits speeds of up to 70mph (112km/h).

An individual has died, and several others were injured in an incident on a rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, an amusement park in the US state of Georgia. The incident occurred nearly 15 miles (24km) from Atlanta, and the Cobb County Police Department is investigating the mishap. Meanwhile, police did not mention the ride's involvement; however, aerial footage from news helicopters showed the Goliath rollercoaster stopping midway, with workers helping riders off. In response to the incident, Six Flags Over Georgia said it was "deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the guest's family, friends, and loved ones." Authorities have not yet confirmed how the person died. "The man fell from the rollercoaster onto the roof of a haunted house attraction," a witness told Local 11Alive. A park spokesperson said its team and local officials responded immediately after the incident and began supporting the probe. Also read: Magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes Panama days after powerful 7.7 quake The Goliath ride Mableton Mayor Michael Owens said the city’s public safety director was working alongside local police and park security to respond to the incident. According to the park’s website, the Goliath ride, which debuted in 2006, reaches a height of 200ft (60m), features a 170ft drop and a 540-degree spiral, and hits speeds of up to 70mph (112km/h). Six Flags rates the ride a four out of five on its internal thrill scale. Monday’s fatality adds to a string of deaths at the Georgia park, according to personal injury attorneys tracking the incidents. The news comes just a month after Six Flags Magic Mountain in Southern California announced it would retire its well-known X2 roller coaster, following lawsuits alleging the ride caused serious brain injuries. The company recently settled a wrongful-death suit brought by the family of a 22-year-old man who died after riding the coaster in 2022, and three additional lawsuits alleging traumatic brain injuries were filed just last week.

&nbsp;According to the park’s website, the Goliath ride, which debuted in 2006, reaches a height of 200ft (60m), features a 170ft drop and a 540-degree spiral, and hits speeds of up to 70mph (112km/h).

One dead, several injured in Goliath roller coaster incident at Six Flags over Georgia

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An earthquake of magnitude 6.1 struck Panama in the early hours of Tuesday (Pct 13), according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). This earthquake struck Panama days after an earthquake of magnitude 7.7 on Friday night ravaged the country. The NCS said in a post on X that the earthquake measured 6.1 on the Richter scale and occurred at 4:50:37 am Indian Standard Time (IST) on Tuesday, October 13. The epicentre was located at latitude 7.683 degrees north and longitude 81.405 degrees west, in Panama. The earthquake originated at a depth of 10 kilometres below the Earth's surface, making it a relatively shallow earthquake.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">El Instituto de Geociencias de la Universidad de Panamá (@igcpanamaup), informó que, a 78 horas del sismo principal de magnitud 7.5, se han localizado 416 réplicas en la zona de Azuero.

El movimiento de magnitud 6.4 ocurrió a las 6:20 p. m., a 18 kilómetros al sursureste de Pixvae, Veraguas, y a menos de 10 kilómetros de profundidad. Es la réplica de mayor magnitud desde el terremoto del 9 de octubre.

En los 56 minutos posteriores se registraron otras 11 réplicas, tres de ellas de magnitud 5. Con este evento, ya son cinco las réplicas de magnitud 6 o más registradas desde el sismo principal.

El Instituto recordó que la actividad sísmica puede continuar durante días, semanas o incluso meses, mientras la zona de la falla se reacomoda.

📍 Datos: Instituto de Geociencias de la Universidad de Panamá (IGC-UP).

#RPCRadio&mdash; Rpc Radio (@rpc_radio) <a href="https://x.com/rpc_radio/status/2109835251358773319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-president-declares-major-disaster-after-powerful-7-7-magnitude-earthquake-triggers-tsunami-warning-1791605192113">Panama president declares ‘major disaster’ after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake; over 80 aftershocks recorded</a> The earthquake on Friday was followed by 147 aftershocks, some reaching magnitudes of 6.1 and 6.6, René García, director of the Emergency Operations Centre. The country also declared a state of emergency on Saturday (local time) to coordinate relief efforts and assist communities affected by the earthquake. Panama's Presidency Minister Juan Carlos Orillac, while addressing a press conference at the presidential palace, said the declaration would ensure that government agencies remained on standby and had the resources required to help affected communities. The government has also established donation collection centres, including one at Omar Park in Panama City, while provincial government offices will serve as additional collection points. The US Embassy in Panama had warned of possible aftershocks and potential tsunami threats across nine countries in Central and South America. &nbsp;On Saturday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed solidarity with the government and people of Panama following an earthquake on October 9, extending prayers to those injured and affected by the disaster. In a post shared on X, Jaishankar said, “India stands with the Government and people of Panama following the earthquake. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all those injured and affected, especially the families who have suffered loss and hardship.” The Ministry of External Affairs also stated, “India conveys solidarity with the Government and people of Panama, following the earthquake.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Raed: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-22-indian-seafarers-safe-in-attack-on-panama-flagged-tanker-off-uae-coast-1791605615782">All 22 Indian seafarers safe in attack on Panama-flagged tanker off UAE coast</a> The most significant damage was reported in Coclé province on the southern coast, with some damage in Panama City. Panama’s public transit system had suspended services on two metro lines, while the country’s main international airport was temporarily closed as a precaution before operations resumed later in the day, CNN reported, quoting the civil aviation authority as saying. President Mulino called for calm, mobilised resources and visited an affected hospital in Penonome, where patients were evacuated and treated outdoors, CNN reported. &nbsp;

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck Panama at a depth of 10 km early Tuesday, according to India's National Centre for Seismology. The tremor comes days after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake damaged homes, roads and public buildings, prompting Panama to declare a state of emergency.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.1 struck Panama in the early hours of Tuesday (Pct 13), according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). This earthquake struck Panama days after an earthquake of magnitude 7.7 on Friday night ravaged the country. The NCS said in a post on X that the earthquake measured 6.1 on the Richter scale and occurred at 4:50:37 am Indian Standard Time (IST) on Tuesday, October 13. The epicentre was located at latitude 7.683 degrees north and longitude 81.405 degrees west, in Panama. The earthquake originated at a depth of 10 kilometres below the Earth's surface, making it a relatively shallow earthquake.

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck Panama at a depth of 10 km early Tuesday, according to India's National Centre for Seismology. The tremor comes days after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake damaged homes, roads and public buildings, prompting Panama to declare a state of emergency.

Magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes Panama days after powerful 7.7 quake

A Melbourne imam whose Islamic community centre was mentioned by prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates in connection with a co-pilot accused of attacking a Flydubai aircraft captain has denied knowing the man, insisting he has ‘consistently preached peace’. The imam, a Lebanese man known as Abu Hamza and identified by local media as Samir Mohtadi, said he had ‘never met’ the Omani co-pilot, who is currently in custody in the UAE.&nbsp;According to findings released by Emirati prosecutors and published by state media last week, the co-pilot allegedly drew inspiration from Al-Qaeda's September 11, 2001, suicide attacks before attempting an assault with the aim of causing the greatest possible loss of life. Prosecutors alleged that the co-pilot became radicalised while studying in Australia, through reading extremist literature and following online content glorifying terrorist organisations and suicide attacks. The prosecution also claimed that he had links to an organisation called ‘My Centre’, which was managed by Abu Hamza. However, neither My Centre nor Abu Hamza has been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in connection with the case.<h2>Melbourne Imam rejects allegations of association</h2>In a statement published on social media late Monday, Abu Hamza rejected suggestions that he had a personal connection with the co-pilot, identified in media reports as Hamam al-Hammami. "We have no record of him ever attending our centre," he said. "The relevant authorities should have verified these claims with me before releasing or publishing such information," he added. The imam also defended his record, saying he had "consistently preached peace" throughout his life. "We unequivocally reject violence in all its forms."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absolutely-disgusting-australia-slams-us-plan-to-livestream-nidal-hasan-s-execution-mike-johnson-raises-concerns-warns-of-terrorist-propaganda-1791849069267">'Absolutely disgusting': Australia slams US plan to livestream Nidal Hasan's execution; Mike Johnson raises concerns, warns of terrorist propaganda</a><h2>Australian authorities investigate co-pilot's links</h2>Australian police and intelligence agencies have confirmed that they are investigating the co-pilot's links to Australia following the allegations outlined by Emirati prosecutors. The investigation is examining the circumstances surrounding his time in the country and the claims that he encountered extremist material while studying there. Authorities have not publicly established that the Melbourne imam or his community centre played any role in the alleged radicalisation.<h2>New Zealand flight training also under scrutiny</h2>The co-pilot also spent time in New Zealand on a six-month student visa, as per report by national broadcaster RNZ. New Zealand police said last week that he had stayed in the country and completed part of his flight training there.

A Melbourne imam denies links to Flydubai co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami, accused of attacking a captain, as Australian and New Zealand authorities investigate

A Melbourne imam whose Islamic community centre was mentioned by prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates in connection with a co-pilot accused of attacking a Flydubai aircraft captain has denied knowing the man, insisting he has ‘consistently preached peace’. The imam, a Lebanese man known as Abu Hamza and identified by local media as Samir Mohtadi, said he had ‘never met’ the Omani co-pilot, who is currently in custody in the UAE. According to findings released by Emirati prosecutors and published by state media last week, the co-pilot allegedly drew inspiration from Al-Qaeda's September 11, 2001, suicide attacks before attempting an assault with the aim of causing the greatest possible loss of life. Prosecutors alleged that the co-pilot became radicalised while studying in Australia, through reading extremist literature and following online content glorifying terrorist organisations and suicide attacks. The prosecution also claimed that he had links to an organisation called ‘My Centre’, which was managed by Abu Hamza. However, neither My Centre nor Abu Hamza has been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in connection with the case. Melbourne Imam rejects allegations of association In a statement published on social media late Monday, Abu Hamza rejected suggestions that he had a personal connection with the co-pilot, identified in media reports as Hamam al-Hammami. "We have no record of him ever attending our centre," he said. "The relevant authorities should have verified these claims with me before releasing or publishing such information," he added. The imam also defended his record, saying he had "consistently preached peace" throughout his life. "We unequivocally reject violence in all its forms." Also Read: 'Absolutely disgusting': Australia slams US plan to livestream Nidal Hasan's execution; Mike Johnson raises concerns, warns of terrorist propaganda Australian authorities investigate co-pilot's links Australian police and intelligence agencies have confirmed that they are investigating the co-pilot's links to Australia following the allegations outlined by Emirati prosecutors. The investigation is examining the circumstances surrounding his time in the country and the claims that he encountered extremist material while studying there. Authorities have not publicly established that the Melbourne imam or his community centre played any role in the alleged radicalisation. New Zealand flight training also under scrutiny The co-pilot also spent time in New Zealand on a six-month student visa, as per report by national broadcaster RNZ. New Zealand police said last week that he had stayed in the country and completed part of his flight training there.

A Melbourne imam denies knowing a Flydubai co-pilot accused of attacking a captain, rejecting alleged links to his community centre

'Never met' him: Melbourne Imam denies links to Flydubai co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami

An Australian minister has condemned plans by the United States to livestream the military execution of Nidal Hasan, describing the proposal as ‘absolutely disgusting’ amid mounting criticism from politicians and international human rights officials. Hasan, who was sentenced to death for killing 13 people in a 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, Texas, is scheduled to be executed by firing squad on December 3. The execution would be the first US military firing squad execution since 1945.&nbsp;A Pentagon official told AFP last week that the execution would be streamed live, following comments by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who said we'll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it's public. Australian Environment Minister Murray Watt expressed disbelief over the proposal during an interview with national broadcaster ABC. "When I first heard that this was being proposed, I couldn't believe that it was real," he said. "I think all Australians would agree that this is a very distressing thing to have publicised," he added.<h2>UN condemns proposed livestream</h2>The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has also criticised the plan, warning that broadcasting the execution could violate international human rights standards. The UN official said the livestreaming of an execution is tantamount to a public execution and would breach the absolute prohibition of torture. In Australia, criticism has come from across the political spectrum. Far-right lawmaker Barnaby Joyce described the proposal as ‘Roman amphitheatre stuff’, while Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young called on regulators to prevent the execution from being broadcast in Australia. However, Australia's internet regulator said in a statement to AFP that it did not have the powers to stop the footage from being shown online. A spokesperson for the eSafety Commissioner said online services have responsibilities under Australia's online safety regulatory framework to protect users from harmful material.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-pumps-276-million-into-republican-campaigns-ahead-of-us-midterm-elections-1791846173225">Elon Musk pumps $276 million into Republican campaigns ahead of US midterm elections</a><h2>Mike Johnson raises concerns over terrorist propaganda</h2>US House Speaker Mike Johnson has also expressed reservations about the planned livestream, adding his voice to the growing criticism. Speaking in an interview broadcast by CBS News on Monday, Johnson warned that making the execution publicly available could have unintended security consequences.&nbsp;"The concern would be that you would create a video that would be a recruiting tool for future terrorists," Johnson told CBS News, adding: “We've got to think through the policy implications of all that.” The Republican leader said he would not watch the execution if it were broadcast live. "There are colleagues who have concerns," he said.<h2>Hegseth defends public broadcast as Trump weighs decision</h2>US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has defended the proposal to make the execution public, arguing that people should be able to watch the proceedings. “We'll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it's public.” President Trump, however, has indicated that a final decision on whether the execution will be livestreamed has yet to be made.<h2>Nidal Hasan case and the execution debate</h2>Hasan, 56, was sentenced to death for the 2009 mass shooting at Fort Hood, a US Army installation in Texas, in which 13 people were killed. The planned firing squad execution has attracted particular attention because of its military setting and the proposal to broadcast it live. Critics argue that livestreaming an execution could create serious ethical and human rights concerns, while Johnson has warned that the footage could be exploited for extremist recruitment.

Australia condemns the US plan to livestream Nidal Hasan’s execution as Mike Johnson and UN officials raise human rights and national security concerns

An Australian minister has condemned plans by the United States to livestream the military execution of Nidal Hasan, describing the proposal as ‘absolutely disgusting’ amid mounting criticism from politicians and international human rights officials. Hasan, who was sentenced to death for killing 13 people in a 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, Texas, is scheduled to be executed by firing squad on December 3. The execution would be the first US military firing squad execution since 1945. A Pentagon official told AFP last week that the execution would be streamed live, following comments by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who said we'll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it's public. Australian Environment Minister Murray Watt expressed disbelief over the proposal during an interview with national broadcaster ABC. "When I first heard that this was being proposed, I couldn't believe that it was real," he said. "I think all Australians would agree that this is a very distressing thing to have publicised," he added. UN condemns proposed livestream The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has also criticised the plan, warning that broadcasting the execution could violate international human rights standards. The UN official said the livestreaming of an execution is tantamount to a public execution and would breach the absolute prohibition of torture. In Australia, criticism has come from across the political spectrum. Far-right lawmaker Barnaby Joyce described the proposal as ‘Roman amphitheatre stuff’, while Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young called on regulators to prevent the execution from being broadcast in Australia. However, Australia's internet regulator said in a statement to AFP that it did not have the powers to stop the footage from being shown online. A spokesperson for the eSafety Commissioner said online services have responsibilities under Australia's online safety regulatory framework to protect users from harmful material. Also Read: Elon Musk pumps $276 million into Republican campaigns ahead of US midterm elections Mike Johnson raises concerns over terrorist propaganda US House Speaker Mike Johnson has also expressed reservations about the planned livestream, adding his voice to the growing criticism. Speaking in an interview broadcast by CBS News on Monday, Johnson warned that making the execution publicly available could have unintended security consequences. "The concern would be that you would create a video that would be a recruiting tool for future terrorists," Johnson told CBS News, adding: “We've got to think through the policy implications of all that.” The Republican leader said he would not watch the execution if it were broadcast live. "There are colleagues who have concerns," he said. Hegseth defends public broadcast as Trump weighs decision US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has defended the proposal to make the execution public, arguing that people should be able to watch the proceedings. “We'll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it's public.” President Trump, however, has indicated that a final decision on whether the execution will be livestreamed has yet to be made. Nidal Hasan case and the execution debate Hasan, 56, was sentenced to death for the 2009 mass shooting at Fort Hood, a US Army installation in Texas, in which 13 people were killed. The planned firing squad execution has attracted particular attention because of its military setting and the proposal to broadcast it live. Critics argue that livestreaming an execution could create serious ethical and human rights concerns, while Johnson has warned that the footage could be exploited for extremist recruitment.

Australia and US lawmakers condemn plans to livestream Nidal Hasan’s firing squad execution, citing human rights concerns and terrorist propaganda risks

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has donated at least $276 million to Republican groups and his own political action committee since July, making him the largest known donor in the November 3 US midterm elections. Musk's total political contributions during the 2026 election cycle have reached approximately $366 million, as he seeks to help Republicans retain control of Congress amid mounting electoral challenges for US President Donald Trump's party, according to a Reuters report.&nbsp;A spokesperson for Musk's America PAC confirmed the latest donations, which include $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund, a political action committee supporting Republican candidates in Senate elections. Musk also contributed $76 million to America PAC and $20 million to the Congressional Leadership Fund, which backs Republican candidates contesting House seats. Other contributions include $10 million to Lone Star Liberty PAC, which supports Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's Senate campaign, and another $10 million to the Republican Governors Association. The Republican Attorneys General Association received an additional $2 million.&nbsp;The donations represent a renewed commitment by Musk to Republican political causes, despite his earlier suggestion that he intended to scale back his political spending. In May 2025, Musk hinted that he planned to reduce his involvement in campaign financing, saying, “I think I've done enough.” During the 2024 election cycle, Musk spent nearly $290 million supporting Trump's successful presidential campaign. He subsequently joined the administration to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative focused on reducing government spending. However, Musk later left the role following a public disagreement with Trump over the president's domestic policy legislation. The relationship between the two has since improved. Last week, Trump presented Musk with the National Medal of Science award.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-may-meet-north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-during-upcoming-asia-trip-1791844101686">Trump says he 'may' meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during upcoming Asia trip</a><h2>Why Musk's donations matter?</h2>Musk's latest contributions come at a critical moment for Republicans, who are seeking to preserve their majorities in Congress ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Democrats, meanwhile, are aiming to win control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Several closely contested races could determine the balance of power in Washington. Musk's financial support is particularly significant in Texas, where Paxton is competing for a Senate seat against Democratic state Representative James Talarico.&nbsp;Texas has not elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1994, but the Senate contest has attracted considerable political attention and campaign spending. According to CNN, the Senate Leadership Fund has committed more than $100 million to the Texas race. Musk's contribution could provide additional financial backing for Republican efforts in the state. His America PAC is also supporting Republican candidates across seven battleground states and nearly three dozen House races, Reuters reported.

Elon Musk has poured $276 million into Republican campaign groups ahead of the US midterms, bringing his 2026 election spending to $366 million

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has donated at least $276 million to Republican groups and his own political action committee since July, making him the largest known donor in the November 3 US midterm elections. Musk's total political contributions during the 2026 election cycle have reached approximately $366 million, as he seeks to help Republicans retain control of Congress amid mounting electoral challenges for US President Donald Trump's party, according to a Reuters report. A spokesperson for Musk's America PAC confirmed the latest donations, which include $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund, a political action committee supporting Republican candidates in Senate elections. Musk also contributed $76 million to America PAC and $20 million to the Congressional Leadership Fund, which backs Republican candidates contesting House seats. Other contributions include $10 million to Lone Star Liberty PAC, which supports Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's Senate campaign, and another $10 million to the Republican Governors Association. The Republican Attorneys General Association received an additional $2 million. The donations represent a renewed commitment by Musk to Republican political causes, despite his earlier suggestion that he intended to scale back his political spending. In May 2025, Musk hinted that he planned to reduce his involvement in campaign financing, saying, “I think I've done enough.” During the 2024 election cycle, Musk spent nearly $290 million supporting Trump's successful presidential campaign. He subsequently joined the administration to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative focused on reducing government spending. However, Musk later left the role following a public disagreement with Trump over the president's domestic policy legislation. The relationship between the two has since improved. Last week, Trump presented Musk with the National Medal of Science award. Also Read: Trump says he 'may' meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during upcoming Asia trip Why Musk's donations matter? Musk's latest contributions come at a critical moment for Republicans, who are seeking to preserve their majorities in Congress ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Democrats, meanwhile, are aiming to win control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Several closely contested races could determine the balance of power in Washington. Musk's financial support is particularly significant in Texas, where Paxton is competing for a Senate seat against Democratic state Representative James Talarico. Texas has not elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1994, but the Senate contest has attracted considerable political attention and campaign spending. According to CNN, the Senate Leadership Fund has committed more than $100 million to the Texas race. Musk's contribution could provide additional financial backing for Republican efforts in the state. His America PAC is also supporting Republican candidates across seven battleground states and nearly three dozen House races, Reuters reported.

Elon Musk has donated $276 million to Republican groups since July, taking his 2026 election spending to $366 million ahead of US midterms

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (October 12) that he may meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his upcoming visit to Asia, fuelling speculation about a possible revival of high-level diplomatic engagement between Washington and Pyongyang. Asked by a reporter at the White House whether he planned to meet Kim during the trip, Trump replied, "I may," adding, "That'll be exciting, won't it? But I get along with him."&nbsp;Trump is scheduled to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in China on November 18-19, with Shenzhen set to host the event. The US president's latest remarks have renewed attention on the possibility of another meeting with Kim, following their three face-to-face encounters during Trump's first term. In August, Trump said he hoped to meet the North Korean leader later this year, prompting speculation that he could seek to revive the personal diplomacy that previously shaped relations between the two countries. Trump and Kim first met in Singapore in June 2018, followed by a second summit in Hanoi, Vietnam, in February 2019. Their third meeting took place at the inter-Korean border village of Panmunjom in June 2019.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-thoroughly-unamused-judge-slams-trump-administration-after-400-trees-cut-at-washington-golf-course-1791842358886">'I am thoroughly unamused': Judge slams Trump administration after 400 trees cut at Washington golf course</a><h2>Trump highlights personal ties with Kim</h2>Trump reiterated his positive assessment of his relationship with Kim during a campaign rally in Ohio on Saturday, saying he ‘gets along great’ with the North Korean leader. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining constructive relationships with leaders of countries possessing nuclear weapons, underscoring the potential role of direct diplomacy in managing international security challenges. However, neither Washington nor Pyongyang has confirmed that a meeting has been scheduled during the upcoming Asia trip.<h2>US signals openness to talks with North Korea</h2>The Trump administration has also suggested that it remains open to diplomatic engagement with North Korea. Tommy Pigott, a spokesperson for the US State Department, said earlier that Trump does not regard talks with Pyongyang as a ‘concession’ and is prepared to engage with the North Korean government if doing so serves US national interests.

Donald Trump says he may meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his Asia trip, raising hopes of renewed diplomacy over North Korea's nuclear programme

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (October 12) that he may meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his upcoming visit to Asia, fuelling speculation about a possible revival of high-level diplomatic engagement between Washington and Pyongyang. Asked by a reporter at the White House whether he planned to meet Kim during the trip, Trump replied, "I may," adding, "That'll be exciting, won't it? But I get along with him." Trump is scheduled to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in China on November 18-19, with Shenzhen set to host the event. The US president's latest remarks have renewed attention on the possibility of another meeting with Kim, following their three face-to-face encounters during Trump's first term. In August, Trump said he hoped to meet the North Korean leader later this year, prompting speculation that he could seek to revive the personal diplomacy that previously shaped relations between the two countries. Trump and Kim first met in Singapore in June 2018, followed by a second summit in Hanoi, Vietnam, in February 2019. Their third meeting took place at the inter-Korean border village of Panmunjom in June 2019. Also Read: 'I am thoroughly unamused': Judge slams Trump administration after 400 trees cut at Washington golf course Trump highlights personal ties with Kim Trump reiterated his positive assessment of his relationship with Kim during a campaign rally in Ohio on Saturday, saying he ‘gets along great’ with the North Korean leader. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining constructive relationships with leaders of countries possessing nuclear weapons, underscoring the potential role of direct diplomacy in managing international security challenges. However, neither Washington nor Pyongyang has confirmed that a meeting has been scheduled during the upcoming Asia trip. US signals openness to talks with North Korea The Trump administration has also suggested that it remains open to diplomatic engagement with North Korea. Tommy Pigott, a spokesperson for the US State Department, said earlier that Trump does not regard talks with Pyongyang as a ‘concession’ and is prepared to engage with the North Korean government if doing so serves US national interests.

Donald Trump says he may meet Kim Jong-un during his upcoming Asia trip, reviving speculation about renewed US-North Korea nuclear diplomacy

A US federal judge has sharply criticised the Trump administration for cutting down more than 400 mature trees at a Washington golf course over the holiday weekend, despite an earlier directive requiring officials to inform the court of major changes before carrying them out. During a contentious four-hour emergency hearing on Monday, Judge Ana C. Reyes of the Federal District Court in Washington ordered a temporary halt to further tree removal at East Potomac Golf Links until Tuesday afternoon. She also directed the proceedings to continue on Tuesday as she sought answers about who authorised the work and whether the decision was connected to the White House.&nbsp;Judge Reyes instructed Justice Department lawyers to locate increasingly senior officials involved in the decision and have them testify immediately. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in redeveloping the publicly owned golf course in southeastern Washington into a luxury championship facility similar to courses associated with his private properties. “I am thoroughly unamused right now,” Judge Reyes said while appearing remotely from Istanbul, where she was travelling. She raised her voice repeatedly during the hearing.&nbsp;“What has happened has cost the government all of its credibility with me in this case,” she said, referring to the numerous occasions on which she had instructed the administration to notify her of significant changes to the golf course. Although the hearing was formally convened to address the tree removal, the judge made clear that her primary concern was whether the administration had disregarded her previous instructions. Since Trump returned to the White House last year, judges in several cases have questioned whether the administration has complied with court orders.<h2>Legal challenge over Trump’s golf course plans</h2>The legal dispute started in February when two Washington residents and a preservationist organisation filed a lawsuit challenging the president’s stated plans to transform the affordable municipal golf course into a championship-level facility. In June, Trump was photographed visiting the property alongside Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and prominent golf course architect Tom Fazio, who has designed several courses owned by the Trump Organization. The group was seen examining blueprints during the visit.&nbsp;At a hearing in July, Judge Reyes, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden, instructed the administration to notify the court before undertaking sudden changes at the site. She expressed concern about the pace of the redevelopment plans and warned that she did not want to learn about construction activities after it was too late to intervene. The judge said she did not want to find out work had begun too late to ‘stop the trains’.<h2>More than 400 trees removed over the weekend</h2>The controversy intensified on Friday evening when the Justice Department submitted documents indicating that the administration planned to remove 529 trees as part of a broader restoration project. By Saturday morning, machinery was already cutting down trees at the golf course. The government acknowledged during Monday’s hearing that more than 400 trees had been removed over the weekend in a single operation.&nbsp;In a court filing late Sunday, lawyers representing the D.C. Preservation League asked Judge Reyes to prevent further work at the site. They noted that the government had indicated hundreds more trees remained scheduled for removal.The filing prompted the judge to convene the emergency hearing. During the proceedings, Reyes said she had repeatedly given the administration the benefit of the doubt regarding its obligation to disclose plans for the course. She expressed frustration that the tree removal had proceeded while she was travelling.&nbsp;When Justice Department attorney Marissa Piropato was unable to explain why officials had waited until Friday night to notify the court about work scheduled to begin the following day, the judge reacted angrily. “Ignorance is not an excuse here,” she said. At another point, Reyes told Piropato that what I find most frustrating about this, counsel, is that this is all double speak. The judge said she needed to establish the sequence of decisions that led to the removal of the trees and determine whether or not I’ve been lied to.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-warns-us-of-painful-response-if-washington-joins-saudi-war-in-yemen-as-airlines-suspend-flights-to-saudi-arabia-1791837914461">Houthis warns US of 'painful response' if Washington joins Saudi war in Yemen as airlines suspend flights to Saudi Arabia</a><h2>National Park Service officials questioned</h2>Kevin Griess, a National Park Service official responsible for overseeing public lands in Washington, testified that plans for the tree removal had been finalised on October 5. He said he received authorisation to proceed with the work over the weekend from Frank Lands, a deputy director at the National Park Service. Judge Reyes then ordered Lands to be located and brought before the court to explain his role.&nbsp;Lands appeared remotely from his car in a parking lot. He told the court that he had formalised the renovation plans with Gregory Wischer, a Trump administration appointee at the Interior Department. Lands also acknowledged that he and Wischer had discussed Trump's ideas for transforming the site into a premier competitive golf course.&nbsp;The judge subsequently ordered Wischer, a deputy chief of staff at the Interior Department, to appear before the court. Piropato said officials had been unable to reach him. Reyes then ended the hearing for the day, directing that Wischer be prepared to testify as early as Tuesday morning. “We’re going to get him in here tomorrow,” she said.<h2>Judge threatens contempt proceedings</h2>As an immediate measure, Judge Reyes prohibited the administration from removing additional trees until 2 pm on Tuesday. She also said she would consider whether to suspend all work at the golf course for two weeks. She suggested that she intended to assess the situation gradually, saying she would try and take this step by step. The judge also ordered Griess, Lands and their staff members to preserve all records relating to the decision to remove the trees. She warned that any violation of her order could trigger serious legal consequences.&nbsp;“I promise you, if that order is violated by two seconds, there are going to be contempt proceedings,” she said. Reyes expressed particular disappointment with the Justice Department because she had repeatedly declined to issue a formal injunction stopping the administration from carrying out work at the site, despite requests from the plaintiffs.“I wanted you all to be better than you have been,” she told Piropato.

A federal judge criticises the Trump administration after over 400 trees are cut at East Potomac Golf Links, ordering a temporary halt and warning of contempt proceedings

A US federal judge has sharply criticised the Trump administration for cutting down more than 400 mature trees at a Washington golf course over the holiday weekend, despite an earlier directive requiring officials to inform the court of major changes before carrying them out. During a contentious four-hour emergency hearing on Monday, Judge Ana C. Reyes of the Federal District Court in Washington ordered a temporary halt to further tree removal at East Potomac Golf Links until Tuesday afternoon. She also directed the proceedings to continue on Tuesday as she sought answers about who authorised the work and whether the decision was connected to the White House. Judge Reyes instructed Justice Department lawyers to locate increasingly senior officials involved in the decision and have them testify immediately. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in redeveloping the publicly owned golf course in southeastern Washington into a luxury championship facility similar to courses associated with his private properties. “I am thoroughly unamused right now,” Judge Reyes said while appearing remotely from Istanbul, where she was travelling. She raised her voice repeatedly during the hearing. “What has happened has cost the government all of its credibility with me in this case,” she said, referring to the numerous occasions on which she had instructed the administration to notify her of significant changes to the golf course. Although the hearing was formally convened to address the tree removal, the judge made clear that her primary concern was whether the administration had disregarded her previous instructions. Since Trump returned to the White House last year, judges in several cases have questioned whether the administration has complied with court orders. Legal challenge over Trump’s golf course plans The legal dispute started in February when two Washington residents and a preservationist organisation filed a lawsuit challenging the president’s stated plans to transform the affordable municipal golf course into a championship-level facility. In June, Trump was photographed visiting the property alongside Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and prominent golf course architect Tom Fazio, who has designed several courses owned by the Trump Organization. The group was seen examining blueprints during the visit. At a hearing in July, Judge Reyes, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden, instructed the administration to notify the court before undertaking sudden changes at the site. She expressed concern about the pace of the redevelopment plans and warned that she did not want to learn about construction activities after it was too late to intervene. The judge said she did not want to find out work had begun too late to ‘stop the trains’. More than 400 trees removed over the weekend The controversy intensified on Friday evening when the Justice Department submitted documents indicating that the administration planned to remove 529 trees as part of a broader restoration project. By Saturday morning, machinery was already cutting down trees at the golf course. The government acknowledged during Monday’s hearing that more than 400 trees had been removed over the weekend in a single operation. In a court filing late Sunday, lawyers representing the D.C. Preservation League asked Judge Reyes to prevent further work at the site. They noted that the government had indicated hundreds more trees remained scheduled for removal. The filing prompted the judge to convene the emergency hearing. During the proceedings, Reyes said she had repeatedly given the administration the benefit of the doubt regarding its obligation to disclose plans for the course. She expressed frustration that the tree removal had proceeded while she was travelling. When Justice Department attorney Marissa Piropato was unable to explain why officials had waited until Friday night to notify the court about work scheduled to begin the following day, the judge reacted angrily. “Ignorance is not an excuse here,” she said. At another point, Reyes told Piropato that what I find most frustrating about this, counsel, is that this is all double speak. The judge said she needed to establish the sequence of decisions that led to the removal of the trees and determine whether or not I’ve been lied to. Also Read: Houthis warns US of 'painful response' if Washington joins Saudi war in Yemen as airlines suspend flights to Saudi Arabia National Park Service officials questioned Kevin Griess, a National Park Service official responsible for overseeing public lands in Washington, testified that plans for the tree removal had been finalised on October 5. He said he received authorisation to proceed with the work over the weekend from Frank Lands, a deputy director at the National Park Service. Judge Reyes then ordered Lands to be located and brought before the court to explain his role. Lands appeared remotely from his car in a parking lot. He told the court that he had formalised the renovation plans with Gregory Wischer, a Trump administration appointee at the Interior Department. Lands also acknowledged that he and Wischer had discussed Trump's ideas for transforming the site into a premier competitive golf course. The judge subsequently ordered Wischer, a deputy chief of staff at the Interior Department, to appear before the court. Piropato said officials had been unable to reach him. Reyes then ended the hearing for the day, directing that Wischer be prepared to testify as early as Tuesday morning. “We’re going to get him in here tomorrow,” she said. Judge threatens contempt proceedings As an immediate measure, Judge Reyes prohibited the administration from removing additional trees until 2 pm on Tuesday. She also said she would consider whether to suspend all work at the golf course for two weeks. She suggested that she intended to assess the situation gradually, saying she would try and take this step by step. The judge also ordered Griess, Lands and their staff members to preserve all records relating to the decision to remove the trees. She warned that any violation of her order could trigger serious legal consequences. “I promise you, if that order is violated by two seconds, there are going to be contempt proceedings,” she said. Reyes expressed particular disappointment with the Justice Department because she had repeatedly declined to issue a formal injunction stopping the administration from carrying out work at the site, despite requests from the plaintiffs. “I wanted you all to be better than you have been,” she told Piropato.

A US judge halts further tree removal at Washington's East Potomac Golf Links after the Trump administration cuts down over 400 trees

A senior Houthi official on Monday warned the United States of a ‘painful response’ if Washington intervenes in the conflict in Yemen, as Saudi Arabia reportedly seeks American assistance in countering repeated attacks by the Iran-backed group. Yemen’s civil war, involving a Saudi-led military coalition supporting the internationally recognised government against the Houthis, reignited in July, months after a wider regional conflict intensified tensions across the Middle East, disrupted energy markets and heightened security concerns.&nbsp;The Houthis subsequently stepped up attacks on Saudi oil facilities, tankers and transport infrastructure, including deadly strikes on Riyadh’s airport, putting pressure on the world’s largest oil exporter. Explosions were reported over the Saudi capital again on Monday night. The Saudi-led coalition said it had intercepted a Houthi missile, while the group claimed it had again targeted the airport. Following a deadly attack on the facility on Saturday that killed 13 people, US President Donald Trump said he was considering joining Saudi military operations against the Houthis. The move would come after Washington reportedly declined earlier requests from Riyadh for military assistance.&nbsp;"If the US becomes involved in the aggression against Yemen, we will not deliberate over the decision to respond, rather, there will be a swift and painful response targeting the US and all its interests in the region," Mohammed Al Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi political bureau, told AFP in an interview. He also issued a warning to people working at Saudi oil facilities and airports. "All employees and workers at Saudi oil facilities and airports to stay away from these sites, as they have become legitimate targets."&nbsp;Saturday’s attack on King Khalid International Airport was described as the deadliest assault on Saudi territory in more than a decade. Hundreds of people were also reported injured. Trump condemned the attack, saying it was not acceptable. He said he would speak with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s de facto leader, and told reporters that Washington was going to look at the possibility of joining Saudi strikes. Airport operations remained suspended at the sprawling facility on the outskirts of Riyadh on Monday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-weighs-firing-kimberly-guilfoyle-as-us-ambassador-to-greece-amid-misconduct-allegations-report-1791836788639">Trump weighs firing Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece amid misconduct allegations: Report</a><h2>Houthis warn of further attacks as Saudi Arabia vows response</h2>Bukhaiti said the campaign against Saudi targets was intended to send a message to the crown prince that he can no longer wage aggression against Yemen from a safe position. Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman addressed the escalating security situation at a conference in Riyadh on Monday, acknowledging the pressure on the kingdom’s infrastructure and population.&nbsp;He said the recent events had tested our infrastructure, our institutions, our people, and our resilience. “The events of recent weeks are serious, our response must be equally serious.” Saudi authorities released CCTV footage of Saturday’s airport attack showing Muslim pilgrims in religious clothing waiting in departure lounges before an explosion tore through the building, sending flaming debris crashing down.&nbsp;The security situation in Riyadh remained tense on Monday. Saudi state broadcaster Al Ekhbariya reported that the military coalition was responding to drone and missile threats. Later in the evening, mobile phones across the capital received a loud government alert warning of a ‘hostile aerial threat’. Authorities subsequently announced that a missile had been intercepted. The alert also delayed the start of a football match between Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana and Saudi club Al Nassr, which features Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo.&nbsp;It was the first time the mobile alert system had been used in Riyadh in several weeks. Officials did not explain why similar warnings had not been issued during earlier attacks targeting the capital. The Houthis also claimed to have targeted the Khamis Mushait military base in southern Saudi Arabia with a drone.<h2>Airlines suspend flights amid security concerns</h2>The escalating attacks have disrupted aviation and prompted additional security precautions for foreign nationals in Saudi Arabia. The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia instructed American government employees to obtain authorisation before travelling through any airport in the kingdom. It also urged US citizens to ‘take extreme caution’ if they decided to use the facilities.&nbsp;The diplomatic mission added that American citizens have been detained for taking photos of recent events in Saudi Arabia. Etihad Airways, the United Arab Emirates’ national carrier, announced on Monday that it was cancelling all flights to and from Riyadh until the following week. The airline also suspended services to Dammam and Jeddah.Bahrain’s Gulf Air similarly announced the cancellation of its Riyadh flights until Saturday. Meanwhile, US airline Delta said it would postpone the launch of its planned direct service between Atlanta and Riyadh, which had been scheduled to begin on October 23.

Yemen’s Houthis threaten a 'painful response' if the US joins Saudi Arabia’s war as attacks disrupt Riyadh airport, flights and regional security

A senior Houthi official on Monday warned the United States of a ‘painful response’ if Washington intervenes in the conflict in Yemen, as Saudi Arabia reportedly seeks American assistance in countering repeated attacks by the Iran-backed group. Yemen’s civil war, involving a Saudi-led military coalition supporting the internationally recognised government against the Houthis, reignited in July, months after a wider regional conflict intensified tensions across the Middle East, disrupted energy markets and heightened security concerns. The Houthis subsequently stepped up attacks on Saudi oil facilities, tankers and transport infrastructure, including deadly strikes on Riyadh’s airport, putting pressure on the world’s largest oil exporter. Explosions were reported over the Saudi capital again on Monday night. The Saudi-led coalition said it had intercepted a Houthi missile, while the group claimed it had again targeted the airport. Following a deadly attack on the facility on Saturday that killed 13 people, US President Donald Trump said he was considering joining Saudi military operations against the Houthis. The move would come after Washington reportedly declined earlier requests from Riyadh for military assistance. "If the US becomes involved in the aggression against Yemen, we will not deliberate over the decision to respond, rather, there will be a swift and painful response targeting the US and all its interests in the region," Mohammed Al Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi political bureau, told AFP in an interview. He also issued a warning to people working at Saudi oil facilities and airports. "All employees and workers at Saudi oil facilities and airports to stay away from these sites, as they have become legitimate targets." Saturday’s attack on King Khalid International Airport was described as the deadliest assault on Saudi territory in more than a decade. Hundreds of people were also reported injured. Trump condemned the attack, saying it was not acceptable. He said he would speak with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s de facto leader, and told reporters that Washington was going to look at the possibility of joining Saudi strikes. Airport operations remained suspended at the sprawling facility on the outskirts of Riyadh on Monday. Also Read: Trump weighs firing Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece amid misconduct allegations: Report Houthis warn of further attacks as Saudi Arabia vows response Bukhaiti said the campaign against Saudi targets was intended to send a message to the crown prince that he can no longer wage aggression against Yemen from a safe position. Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman addressed the escalating security situation at a conference in Riyadh on Monday, acknowledging the pressure on the kingdom’s infrastructure and population. He said the recent events had tested our infrastructure, our institutions, our people, and our resilience. “The events of recent weeks are serious, our response must be equally serious.” Saudi authorities released CCTV footage of Saturday’s airport attack showing Muslim pilgrims in religious clothing waiting in departure lounges before an explosion tore through the building, sending flaming debris crashing down. The security situation in Riyadh remained tense on Monday. Saudi state broadcaster Al Ekhbariya reported that the military coalition was responding to drone and missile threats. Later in the evening, mobile phones across the capital received a loud government alert warning of a ‘hostile aerial threat’. Authorities subsequently announced that a missile had been intercepted. The alert also delayed the start of a football match between Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana and Saudi club Al Nassr, which features Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo. It was the first time the mobile alert system had been used in Riyadh in several weeks. Officials did not explain why similar warnings had not been issued during earlier attacks targeting the capital. The Houthis also claimed to have targeted the Khamis Mushait military base in southern Saudi Arabia with a drone. Airlines suspend flights amid security concerns The escalating attacks have disrupted aviation and prompted additional security precautions for foreign nationals in Saudi Arabia. The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia instructed American government employees to obtain authorisation before travelling through any airport in the kingdom. It also urged US citizens to ‘take extreme caution’ if they decided to use the facilities. The diplomatic mission added that American citizens have been detained for taking photos of recent events in Saudi Arabia. Etihad Airways, the United Arab Emirates’ national carrier, announced on Monday that it was cancelling all flights to and from Riyadh until the following week. The airline also suspended services to Dammam and Jeddah. Bahrain’s Gulf Air similarly announced the cancellation of its Riyadh flights until Saturday. Meanwhile, US airline Delta said it would postpone the launch of its planned direct service between Atlanta and Riyadh, which had been scheduled to begin on October 23.

Houthis warn of a ‘painful response’ if the US joins Saudi strikes in Yemen as missile attacks disrupt Riyadh airport and regional flights

US President Donald Trump is considering removing Kimberly Guilfoyle from her position as US ambassador to Greece following a series of reports alleging misconduct, according to a person familiar with the matter. Trump has been monitoring reports alleging that Guilfoyle, who was engaged to his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., for four years, accepted lavish gifts during her diplomatic tenure and sought money in exchange for access to senior administration officials before her Senate confirmation.&nbsp;Guilfoyle’s lawyers have denied allegations that she sought money in exchange for access. They have also disputed reports about her travel, maintaining that she complied with federal gift and disclosure requirements. The allegations have reportedly frustrated senior administration officials, particularly as they emerged during Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Athens. Rubio delivered a high-profile speech on Western democracy from the Acropolis during the trip.&nbsp;According to the person familiar with the matter, Trump is expected to decide soon whether to dismiss Guilfoyle. When media asked the president about the allegations on Friday, he did not offer a strong defence of the ambassador. “I just heard about it. Too bad. I mean, I don’t know,” Trump said. “I just heard a little bit about it. I don’t know too much, but she was always very nice.”<h2>$100,000 payment allegation</h2>Eric Deters, a former Trump donor, claimed that Guilfoyle asked him via text message to transfer $100,000 to help pay off an American Express credit card shortly before her Senate confirmation. Deters said he did not transfer the money because he did not have sufficient liquid assets at the time. The Wall Street Journal first reported the messages. However, Guilfoyle’s lawyers offered a different account, arguing that Deters owed her money for speeches and consulting services and describing his allegations as false.&nbsp;In a statement provided to CNN, her lawyers said, “When Ms. Guilfoyle was preparing to leave private life for public service, she did what any professional does and tried to close out her outstanding receivables. Asking a client to pay for work already done is not corruption. It is the opposite of corruption,” her lawyers wrote. The person familiar with the matter also said Guilfoyle denied to administration officials last week that she had sent the messages.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-not-be-silenced-ilhan-omar-alleges-political-intimidation-after-federal-officers-search-her-washington-home-1791835502590">'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation after federal officers search her Washington home</a><h2>Guilfoyle’s ties to the Trump family under scrutiny</h2>Guilfoyle has maintained close ties with the Trump family. Following her split from Donald Trump Jr., she was appointed to the diplomatic post in Greece. Allies of Trump and his eldest son told CNN they considered the controversy embarrassing. However, it remains unclear whether the allegations will lead to any formal action against Guilfoyle. Trump has repeatedly expressed displeasure when people associated with him appear to use their connections for personal financial gain.<h2>JD Vance calls for facts before judging</h2>Vice President JD Vance addressed the controversy on Friday but declined to say whether Guilfoyle should face consequences, stressing that he did not want to prejudge the matter. Vance said he refused to “try people in the court of public opinion.” However, he expressed broader concerns about individuals allegedly seeking payment in exchange for access to government officials. “Of course I don’t like anybody selling access to another government official, certainly a high-level government official,” he said. “Let’s see what the truth is. And obviously, if there was something bad that happened, then people have to suffer consequences for it,” he said.

Donald Trump weighs removing Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece amid allegations involving gifts and a $100,000 payment request, which her lawyers deny

US President Donald Trump is considering removing Kimberly Guilfoyle from her position as US ambassador to Greece following a series of reports alleging misconduct, according to a person familiar with the matter. Trump has been monitoring reports alleging that Guilfoyle, who was engaged to his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., for four years, accepted lavish gifts during her diplomatic tenure and sought money in exchange for access to senior administration officials before her Senate confirmation. Guilfoyle’s lawyers have denied allegations that she sought money in exchange for access. They have also disputed reports about her travel, maintaining that she complied with federal gift and disclosure requirements. The allegations have reportedly frustrated senior administration officials, particularly as they emerged during Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Athens. Rubio delivered a high-profile speech on Western democracy from the Acropolis during the trip. According to the person familiar with the matter, Trump is expected to decide soon whether to dismiss Guilfoyle. When media asked the president about the allegations on Friday, he did not offer a strong defence of the ambassador. “I just heard about it. Too bad. I mean, I don’t know,” Trump said. “I just heard a little bit about it. I don’t know too much, but she was always very nice.” $100,000 payment allegation Eric Deters, a former Trump donor, claimed that Guilfoyle asked him via text message to transfer $100,000 to help pay off an American Express credit card shortly before her Senate confirmation. Deters said he did not transfer the money because he did not have sufficient liquid assets at the time. The Wall Street Journal first reported the messages. However, Guilfoyle’s lawyers offered a different account, arguing that Deters owed her money for speeches and consulting services and describing his allegations as false. In a statement provided to CNN, her lawyers said, “When Ms. Guilfoyle was preparing to leave private life for public service, she did what any professional does and tried to close out her outstanding receivables. Asking a client to pay for work already done is not corruption. It is the opposite of corruption,” her lawyers wrote. The person familiar with the matter also said Guilfoyle denied to administration officials last week that she had sent the messages. Also Read: 'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation after federal officers search her Washington home Guilfoyle’s ties to the Trump family under scrutiny Guilfoyle has maintained close ties with the Trump family. Following her split from Donald Trump Jr., she was appointed to the diplomatic post in Greece. Allies of Trump and his eldest son told CNN they considered the controversy embarrassing. However, it remains unclear whether the allegations will lead to any formal action against Guilfoyle. Trump has repeatedly expressed displeasure when people associated with him appear to use their connections for personal financial gain. JD Vance calls for facts before judging Vice President JD Vance addressed the controversy on Friday but declined to say whether Guilfoyle should face consequences, stressing that he did not want to prejudge the matter. Vance said he refused to “try people in the court of public opinion.” However, he expressed broader concerns about individuals allegedly seeking payment in exchange for access to government officials. “Of course I don’t like anybody selling access to another government official, certainly a high-level government official,” he said. “Let’s see what the truth is. And obviously, if there was something bad that happened, then people have to suffer consequences for it,” he said.

Trump is weighing whether to remove Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece following misconduct allegations that her lawyers strongly deny

US Representative Ilhan Omar on Monday (October 12) accused the Trump administration of political intimidation after federal investigators searched her Washington, DC-area home. The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the search was conducted as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota, addressed the incident in a post on X, writing, "I'm ok," while alleging that the search was an attempt to target political opponents and misuse federal law enforcement powers. "Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation," she said, adding, "I will not be silenced."&nbsp;The Department of Justice confirmed that investigators from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a division of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for criminal investigations, had executed a judicially authorised search warrant. The department said the warrant had been secured by the DOJ and that the enforcement action was part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. However, officials did not identify Omar by name in their statement or disclose the specific subject of the investigation, according to CBS News.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/korean-peninsula-tensions-escalate-as-north-korea-launches-multiple-ballistic-missiles-pacom-says-no-threat-to-us-personnel-1791833636140">Korean peninsula tensions escalate as North Korea launches multiple ballistic missiles, PACOM says ‘no threat to US personnel’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’m ok. Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponize federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation.

I will not be silenced.&mdash; Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) <a href="https://x.com/IlhanMN/status/2109675562344087792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Democratic leaders criticise search</h2>Senior Democratic leaders in the US House of Representatives criticised the search in a joint statement shared by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries on X. The statement was also associated with Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. The search took place early Monday at the Washington, DC-area residence of Omar, who has frequently been a target of criticism from President Donald Trump and members of his administration, according to a Justice Department spokesperson and a source familiar with the matter.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Statement in connection with the egregious raid on Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home. https://t.co/pLxEZvR4sw&mdash; Hakeem Jeffries (@RepJeffries) <a href="https://x.com/RepJeffries/status/2109673541855588653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Search raises questions ahead of midterm elections</h2>The search has drawn attention because it comes just weeks before the US midterm elections, in which Omar is seeking re-election to Congress. The timing is particularly significant in Minnesota, where voting is already underway. According to data from the Minnesota secretary of state's office cited in the report, more than 127,000 people had already cast their ballots.&nbsp;The use of a judicially authorised search warrant against a sitting member of Congress and election candidate so close to an election is an unusual development that is likely to intensify political scrutiny. The DOJ has maintained that the search forms part of an ongoing criminal investigation, but it has not provided further details about the case. Omar, meanwhile, has framed the search as an attempt to intimidate political opponents and has vowed not to be silenced.<h2>Trump attacks Omar</h2>President Donald Trump repeatedly mentioned Minnesota and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) on Monday night while campaigning for Republicans in Ohio ahead of the midterm elections. On Monday, federal agents searched the home of Omar, a Somali-born American citizen, as part of a federal criminal investigation involving the congresswoman.&nbsp;Speaking at a rally in Youngstown, Trump criticized Minnesota and Omar, saying, “Just look at what’s happening in the once great state of Minnesota. What a mess they have done,” Trump said in Youngstown. “And Ilhan, somebody was asking. I don’t know what they’re doing with it, but I can tell you this: she’s a disaster.” Trump also targeted Omar’s country of birth, claiming she comes from “one of the worst countries anywhere on the planet.”

Ilhan Omar accuses the Trump administration of political intimidation after Homeland Security Investigations searches her Washington home amid an ongoing DOJ probe

US Representative Ilhan Omar on Monday (October 12) accused the Trump administration of political intimidation after federal investigators searched her Washington, DC-area home. The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the search was conducted as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. Omar, a Democratic representative from Minnesota, addressed the incident in a post on X, writing, "I'm ok," while alleging that the search was an attempt to target political opponents and misuse federal law enforcement powers. "Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation," she said, adding, "I will not be silenced." The Department of Justice confirmed that investigators from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a division of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for criminal investigations, had executed a judicially authorised search warrant. The department said the warrant had been secured by the DOJ and that the enforcement action was part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. However, officials did not identify Omar by name in their statement or disclose the specific subject of the investigation, according to CBS News. Also Read: Korean peninsula tensions escalate as North Korea launches multiple ballistic missiles, PACOM says ‘no threat to US personnel’

Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation after federal investigators search her Washington home as the DOJ confirms an ongoing criminal investigation

North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles towards its eastern waters on Monday (October 12), South Korea’s military said, amid escalating tensions between the two countries following a landmine explosion along their heavily fortified border. The explosion, which injured three South Korean soldiers in the Seoul-controlled section of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), has intensified friction between the neighbours. Both sides have since demonstrated advances in their missile capabilities.&nbsp;"Our military detected around 09:20 (0020 GMT) several ballistic missiles launched from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea," South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement on Monday, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. "Our military has stepped up surveillance and vigilance against possible additional launches," the statement added. Japan’s Defence Ministry separately confirmed the launch of at least one suspected ballistic missile.&nbsp;The US Pacific Command said North Korea had launched two ballistic missiles, adding that they did not pose an immediate threat to US personnel or territory, or to our allies. According to South Korea’s JCS, some of the detected North Korean missiles travelled more than 900 kilometres. Seoul and its longtime ally, Washington, are analysing the projectiles to determine their precise specifications. Following the launches, South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security meeting to assess the situation and review the country’s military preparedness.<h2>Landmine dispute deepens Korean peninsula tensions</h2>The latest missile launches came after a joint investigation by South Korea and the United Nations last week concluded that North Korea had planted the landmines responsible for the explosion in the DMZ more than a year ago. Pyongyang has strongly denied the accusation. Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has criticised Seoul’s calls for an apology, describing them as ‘despicable’. She has also rejected an offer of medical equipment from South Korea.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="http://wionews.com/world/almost-certainly-uk-prime-minister-andy-burnham-says-iran-s-irgc-behind-raf-fairford-threat-1791831283856">'Almost certainly': UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says Iran's IRGC behind RAF Fairford threat</a><h2>North and South Korea showcase missile capabilities</h2>Tensions have also risen as both countries demonstrate developments in their missile programmes. On October 3, North Korea test-fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile. Kim Yo Jong subsequently claimed that the weapon incorporated unspecified artificial intelligence technology and was 'capable of changing its flight orbit at a low altitude'.&nbsp;Days later, South Korea announced the successful test of a domestically developed hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV). Such weapons are carried into the upper atmosphere by rocket boosters or ballistic missiles before gliding towards their intended targets. South Korea’s presidential Blue House described the capability as significant for the country's defence posture, saying the HGV offered a new deterrence capability capable of striking key targets within the Korean Peninsula's operational environment.&nbsp;On Thursday, Kim Yo Jong said South Korea would need to show greater respect if it wanted to improve relations with Pyongyang. "If they (South Korea) truly wish to restore relations between the DPRK and South Korea, they should be mindful of the other side's feelings in every word and deed, and first demonstrate the utmost respect, consideration and sincerity," she said, using North Korea’s official acronym.<h2>Trump’s outreach raises concerns in Seoul</h2>The growing tensions coincide with renewed diplomatic overtures by US President Donald Trump towards North Korea. His efforts have raised concerns in Seoul that South Korea, despite being a key US ally, could be sidelined in any future negotiations over Pyongyang’s nuclear programme. In October, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles a day after Trump indicated that he might meet Kim Jong Un later this year.&nbsp;The Korean Peninsula remains technically in a state of war, as the 1950–1953 Korean War ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty. The Demilitarised Zone, which separates North and South Korea, remains one of the world's most heavily fortified border areas. Incidents involving landmines and military activity along the frontier have repeatedly heightened tensions between the two countries.

North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles as tensions with South Korea escalate over a DMZ landmine explosion, weapons tests and regional security concerns

North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles towards its eastern waters on Monday (October 12), South Korea’s military said, amid escalating tensions between the two countries following a landmine explosion along their heavily fortified border. The explosion, which injured three South Korean soldiers in the Seoul-controlled section of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), has intensified friction between the neighbours. Both sides have since demonstrated advances in their missile capabilities. "Our military detected around 09:20 (0020 GMT) several ballistic missiles launched from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea," South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement on Monday, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. "Our military has stepped up surveillance and vigilance against possible additional launches," the statement added. Japan’s Defence Ministry separately confirmed the launch of at least one suspected ballistic missile. The US Pacific Command said North Korea had launched two ballistic missiles, adding that they did not pose an immediate threat to US personnel or territory, or to our allies. According to South Korea’s JCS, some of the detected North Korean missiles travelled more than 900 kilometres. Seoul and its longtime ally, Washington, are analysing the projectiles to determine their precise specifications. Following the launches, South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security meeting to assess the situation and review the country’s military preparedness. Landmine dispute deepens Korean peninsula tensions The latest missile launches came after a joint investigation by South Korea and the United Nations last week concluded that North Korea had planted the landmines responsible for the explosion in the DMZ more than a year ago. Pyongyang has strongly denied the accusation. Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has criticised Seoul’s calls for an apology, describing them as ‘despicable’. She has also rejected an offer of medical equipment from South Korea. Also Read: 'Almost certainly': UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says Iran's IRGC behind RAF Fairford threat North and South Korea showcase missile capabilities Tensions have also risen as both countries demonstrate developments in their missile programmes. On October 3, North Korea test-fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile. Kim Yo Jong subsequently claimed that the weapon incorporated unspecified artificial intelligence technology and was 'capable of changing its flight orbit at a low altitude'. Days later, South Korea announced the successful test of a domestically developed hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV). Such weapons are carried into the upper atmosphere by rocket boosters or ballistic missiles before gliding towards their intended targets. South Korea’s presidential Blue House described the capability as significant for the country's defence posture, saying the HGV offered a new deterrence capability capable of striking key targets within the Korean Peninsula's operational environment. On Thursday, Kim Yo Jong said South Korea would need to show greater respect if it wanted to improve relations with Pyongyang. "If they (South Korea) truly wish to restore relations between the DPRK and South Korea, they should be mindful of the other side's feelings in every word and deed, and first demonstrate the utmost respect, consideration and sincerity," she said, using North Korea’s official acronym. Trump’s outreach raises concerns in Seoul The growing tensions coincide with renewed diplomatic overtures by US President Donald Trump towards North Korea. His efforts have raised concerns in Seoul that South Korea, despite being a key US ally, could be sidelined in any future negotiations over Pyongyang’s nuclear programme. In October, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles a day after Trump indicated that he might meet Kim Jong Un later this year. The Korean Peninsula remains technically in a state of war, as the 1950–1953 Korean War ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty. The Demilitarised Zone, which separates North and South Korea, remains one of the world's most heavily fortified border areas. Incidents involving landmines and military activity along the frontier have repeatedly heightened tensions between the two countries.

North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles amid rising tensions with South Korea over a DMZ landmine blast and competing weapons tests

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was ‘almost certainly’ behind threats targeting RAF Fairford, marking the strongest attribution of responsibility made by the British government since the incident late last month. Addressing MPs on Monday (October 12), Burnham said the UK would introduce further sanctions against Tehran and the IRGC. However, the incident remains under investigation, with no charges brought against anyone in connection with the episode despite more than two weeks of police inquiries.&nbsp;Speaking in Parliament about the incident at RAF Fairford, Burnham said, “I can confirm our assessment that it is highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also addressed the House of Commons, confirming that Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband had summoned the Iranian ambassador over the incident. She added that the government had imposed sanctions on two individuals accused of conducting espionage in Europe and the United States.&nbsp;“Miliband will condemn Iran’s continued attempts to undermine our safety. We are also sanctioning two individuals involved in conducting espionage and attacks on behalf of the government of Iran in Europe and the US, and we will not hesitate to take further action to restrict Iran’s capacity to threaten international security,” she said. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on September 27, when five men from London travelled to Whelford, a village adjacent to a base used by the US Air Force, in three white vans. Police released the men on bail the following day after finding no bombs or explosives.&nbsp;A week later, 12 B-1 bombers were withdrawn from the base amid reports that the United States was concerned about a possible drone attack. The facility had previously been used by US forces during the conflict with Iran in the spring and summer. In the days following the incident, the prime minister had said there were ‘strong indications’ that Iran had been involved. A joint statement issued by the UK, the US and other European allies through the Foreign Office said the UK has also concluded this event demonstrates the IRGC’s continued willingness to project hostile activity beyond its borders through covert networks and proxy actors.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-ajit-doval-iran-s-mohsen-rezaei-hold-talks-amid-escalating-west-asia-tensions-discuss-issues-of-mutual-interest-1791829947882">India's Ajit Doval, Iran's Mohsen Rezaei hold talks amid escalating West Asia tensions, discuss 'issues of mutual interest'</a>&nbsp;Despite the stronger language from the government, the precise nature of the incident at Fairford remains unclear. Some experts have suggested it may have been a ‘feint’ intended to demonstrate that Iran could potentially target a relatively accessible military facility. British sources have repeatedly maintained that Iran does not possess the capability required to carry out what would be a sophisticated drone attack. Nevertheless, the episode appears to have raised concerns in Washington about the security of American military installations across Europe.&nbsp;The Fairford incident also comes amid what the UK described in the joint statement as a recent campaign of attacks across Europe targeting Jewish communities, Iranian journalists and US interests. These attacks have been claimed by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI). The United States has detained and indicted Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, whom it accuses of being behind HAYI. However, evidence suggests that attacks linked to Iran may have continued despite the action against the alleged group leader.&nbsp;Separately, two Iranian nationals, Salam Ahmadyan of Liverpool and Rahman Salehi of Salford, were charged with terrorism offences a week ago. They are accused of attempting to target Manchester’s Jewish community with a homemade chlorine powder bomb. Prosecutors told a magistrates’ court that the pair had been in contact with a third party believed to be in Iran. According to the prosecution, the individual directed them and sent them instructions on how to prepare an explosive device. A trial in the case has been scheduled at the Old Bailey.

Andy Burnham says Iran’s IRGC was almost certainly behind RAF Fairford threats as the UK imposes sanctions and investigates security concerns

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was ‘almost certainly’ behind threats targeting RAF Fairford, marking the strongest attribution of responsibility made by the British government since the incident late last month. Addressing MPs on Monday (October 12), Burnham said the UK would introduce further sanctions against Tehran and the IRGC. However, the incident remains under investigation, with no charges brought against anyone in connection with the episode despite more than two weeks of police inquiries. Speaking in Parliament about the incident at RAF Fairford, Burnham said, “I can confirm our assessment that it is highly likely to have been coordinated in Iran, almost certainly directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also addressed the House of Commons, confirming that Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband had summoned the Iranian ambassador over the incident. She added that the government had imposed sanctions on two individuals accused of conducting espionage in Europe and the United States. “Miliband will condemn Iran’s continued attempts to undermine our safety. We are also sanctioning two individuals involved in conducting espionage and attacks on behalf of the government of Iran in Europe and the US, and we will not hesitate to take further action to restrict Iran’s capacity to threaten international security,” she said. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on September 27, when five men from London travelled to Whelford, a village adjacent to a base used by the US Air Force, in three white vans. Police released the men on bail the following day after finding no bombs or explosives. A week later, 12 B-1 bombers were withdrawn from the base amid reports that the United States was concerned about a possible drone attack. The facility had previously been used by US forces during the conflict with Iran in the spring and summer. In the days following the incident, the prime minister had said there were ‘strong indications’ that Iran had been involved. A joint statement issued by the UK, the US and other European allies through the Foreign Office said the UK has also concluded this event demonstrates the IRGC’s continued willingness to project hostile activity beyond its borders through covert networks and proxy actors. Also Read: India's Ajit Doval, Iran's Mohsen Rezaei hold talks amid escalating West Asia tensions, discuss 'issues of mutual interest' Despite the stronger language from the government, the precise nature of the incident at Fairford remains unclear. Some experts have suggested it may have been a ‘feint’ intended to demonstrate that Iran could potentially target a relatively accessible military facility. British sources have repeatedly maintained that Iran does not possess the capability required to carry out what would be a sophisticated drone attack. Nevertheless, the episode appears to have raised concerns in Washington about the security of American military installations across Europe. The Fairford incident also comes amid what the UK described in the joint statement as a recent campaign of attacks across Europe targeting Jewish communities, Iranian journalists and US interests. These attacks have been claimed by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI). The United States has detained and indicted Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, whom it accuses of being behind HAYI. However, evidence suggests that attacks linked to Iran may have continued despite the action against the alleged group leader. Separately, two Iranian nationals, Salam Ahmadyan of Liverpool and Rahman Salehi of Salford, were charged with terrorism offences a week ago. They are accused of attempting to target Manchester’s Jewish community with a homemade chlorine powder bomb. Prosecutors told a magistrates’ court that the pair had been in contact with a third party believed to be in Iran. According to the prosecution, the individual directed them and sent them instructions on how to prepare an explosive device. A trial in the case has been scheduled at the Old Bailey.

Andy Burnham says Iran’s IRGC was ‘almost certainly’ behind RAF Fairford threats as the UK announces sanctions and raises security concerns

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Iranian counterpart, Mohsen Rezaei, held a phone conversation on Monday (October 12) to discuss regional and international developments and bilateral relations amid escalating hostilities in West Asia. India has been carefully balancing its relations with Iran and key West Asian countries, calling for a return to dialogue and diplomacy to end the conflict. New Delhi has also opposed attacks on merchant shipping and civilian infrastructure. Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, spoke with Doval and exchanged views on the ‘latest regional and international developments and issues of mutual interest to the two countries’, according to a statement posted by the Iranian embassy on social media. The embassy did not disclose further details of the conversation. India did not issue an official readout of the phone call.&nbsp;The conversation took place two days after an Indian national was killed and 10 others were injured in an attack on the international airport in Riyadh, the Saudi Arabian capital. The attack was attributed to Iran-backed Houthi rebels. It also came a day after two merchant vessels carrying Indian crew members were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. Two Indian seafarers were reported missing following a drone attack on the MT Petrol Dolphin. Earlier, during a meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the West Asia conflict. Modi also called for continued efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-russian-diesel-deal-fuel-prices-backlash-1791828042517">Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dr. Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, held a telephone conversation this evening with Shri Ajit Doval, National Security Adviser of the Republic of India, during which they exchanged views on the latest regional and international developments and issues of mutual interest to the two countries.&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://x.com/Iran_in_India/status/2109682085262995663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2026</a></blockquote>
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According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders discussed the latest developments in the region. Modi reiterated India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. India faces the challenge of maintaining its longstanding ties with Iran while expressing solidarity with Gulf Arab nations, several of which have been targeted by Iranian military attacks because they host US military bases.&nbsp;Iranian attacks on merchant vessels near the Strait of Hormuz have also raised concerns in New Delhi, particularly after Indian seafarers were killed or injured in the incidents. Eleven seafarers are among the 18 Indian nationals killed so far in the West Asia conflict. The conflict began in February following attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran.

Ajit Doval and Iran’s Mohsen Rezaei discuss West Asia tensions as India calls for dialogue, maritime security and the safety of Indian seafarers

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Iranian counterpart, Mohsen Rezaei, held a phone conversation on Monday (October 12) to discuss regional and international developments and bilateral relations amid escalating hostilities in West Asia. India has been carefully balancing its relations with Iran and key West Asian countries, calling for a return to dialogue and diplomacy to end the conflict. New Delhi has also opposed attacks on merchant shipping and civilian infrastructure. Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, spoke with Doval and exchanged views on the ‘latest regional and international developments and issues of mutual interest to the two countries’, according to a statement posted by the Iranian embassy on social media. The embassy did not disclose further details of the conversation. India did not issue an official readout of the phone call. The conversation took place two days after an Indian national was killed and 10 others were injured in an attack on the international airport in Riyadh, the Saudi Arabian capital. The attack was attributed to Iran-backed Houthi rebels. It also came a day after two merchant vessels carrying Indian crew members were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. Two Indian seafarers were reported missing following a drone attack on the MT Petrol Dolphin. Earlier, during a meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the West Asia conflict. Modi also called for continued efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers. Also Read: Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices

Ajit Doval and Iran’s Mohsen Rezaei discuss West Asia tensions as India urges diplomacy amid attacks on shipping and rising risks to Indian seafarers

US President Donald Trump on Monday defended the deal with Russia to permit the country’s diesel into the US and global marketplace following bipartisan backlash. Trump claimed that the move was important to bring down diesel prices in the US, which was jeopardising Republican chances in the November 3 mid-term elections.&nbsp;"The European Union paid Russia 250 Billion Dollars for Energy, and the Fake News Media doesn't want to get near that story," Trump wrote on Truth Social."I made the right choice for ⁠the American People — ALWAYS, AMERICA FIRST! President DONALD J. TRUMP," Trump said in a ​social media post.Trump's comment comes after six senators from both Republicans and Democrats demanded that his administration reverse a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply diesel to the US and global markets.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jantar-mantar-denotification-1791822384495">Jantar Mantar denotification to hit small businesses as shopkeepers fear 40% sales drop</a>Fuel prices have shot up since the US-Israel launched a campaign of regime change against Iran. Though Trump denies regime change was the goal and blames Ukraine's attacks on Russian ​oil refineries as a leading factor."We should ‌be ⁠tightening sanctions further, not undercutting them by allowing the import of Russian diesel and risking erasing our leverage, damaging our credibility with allies, and emboldening our adversaries," said Republican Senator Jerry Moran in a social media post.&nbsp;Trump on Friday announced that Russia would immediately provide more than 300,000 tons of diesel, followed by another 500,000 tons in November.&nbsp;"Everybody understands that the prices of ​diesel — it doesn't depend on our attacks on diesel in Russia. Everybody understands that it depends on ​the blocking... the Strait of Hormuz," said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.Trump on Saturday also claimed that Ukraine needs a new president, and Zelensky responded by promising to hold elections if Russia would agree to ​a 60-day ceasefire.

Donald Trump defended a deal to allow Russian diesel into US and global markets, arguing it would lower fuel prices despite bipartisan criticism

US President Donald Trump on Monday defended the deal with Russia to permit the country’s diesel into the US and global marketplace following bipartisan backlash. Trump claimed that the move was important to bring down diesel prices in the US, which was jeopardising Republican chances in the November 3 mid-term elections. "The European Union paid Russia 250 Billion Dollars for Energy, and the Fake News Media doesn't want to get near that story," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "I made the right choice for ⁠the American People — ALWAYS, AMERICA FIRST! President DONALD J. TRUMP," Trump said in a social media post. Trump's comment comes after six senators from both Republicans and Democrats demanded that his administration reverse a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply diesel to the US and global markets. Also Read: Jantar Mantar denotification to hit small businesses as shopkeepers fear 40% sales drop Fuel prices have shot up since the US-Israel launched a campaign of regime change against Iran. Though Trump denies regime change was the goal and blames Ukraine's attacks on Russian oil refineries as a leading factor. "We should ‌be ⁠tightening sanctions further, not undercutting them by allowing the import of Russian diesel and risking erasing our leverage, damaging our credibility with allies, and emboldening our adversaries," said Republican Senator Jerry Moran in a social media post. Trump on Friday announced that Russia would immediately provide more than 300,000 tons of diesel, followed by another 500,000 tons in November. "Everybody understands that the prices of diesel — it doesn't depend on our attacks on diesel in Russia. Everybody understands that it depends on the blocking... the Strait of Hormuz," said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump on Saturday also claimed that Ukraine needs a new president, and Zelensky responded by promising to hold elections if Russia would agree to a 60-day ceasefire.

Donald Trump defended a deal to allow Russian diesel into US and global markets, arguing it would lower fuel prices despite bipartisan criticism

Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices

For decades, Pakistan and China have been illegally occupying Indian territory.Reigniting tensions with India further, both nations activated a long-pending joint mechanism for managing their de facto border.This comes even as both countries officially don't share a border.Let's jog your memory back to 1963.Back then, Pakistan and China signed a so-called boundary agreement.Under this pact, Pakistan illegally ceded five thousand one hundred and eighty square kilometres of Shaksgam Valley to China.50 years later, both sides signed an agreement on a boundary management system for managing the already demarcated boundary.Last month, the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission was formally operationalised.The first meeting of this commission was held in Islamabad.According to Pakistan, it set the stage for enhanced cooperation in border management, joint border surveys, trade flows and people-to-people connectivity.Now, India categorically rejected the legality of this commission and stressed that the 1963 Pakistan-China pact in itself is illegal and invalid.The Ministry of External Affairs added, and I am quoting it, "Any so-called boundary cooperation between China and Pakistan concerning Indian territories would be completely unacceptable and would have no bearing whatsoever on India's sovereignty over these territories".India also called upon Pakistan to immediately vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.Now, the significance of Shaksgam Valley cannot be understated.It is situated in a sensitive area bordering China's Xinjiang province.It lies to the north of the Karakoram Range and was illegally occupied by Pakistan after independence.But on the whole, what is the purpose of this new boundary commission formed by Pakistan and China?Retired Major General Sudhakar Jee decoded this while speaking to WION.He said, "So by going in for this particular commission, both the countries, apart from the trade flows, are going to facilitate border activities, exchange of police, information, and intelligence. Also, this will facilitate and enable China to mobilise its People's Liberation Army through this pass into Pakistan-occupied Jammu &amp; Kashmir."According to this senior defence expert, the danger is clear, as China has already infiltrated thousands of soldiers into the illegally occupied territory of Gilgit-Baltistan.He advocated a multi-pronged approach, including raising the matter at international forums.The geopolitical expert urged India to not only highlight how the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor passes through illegally occupied territory, but also to negotiate directly with China to reclaim the strategic Shaksgam Valley.&nbsp;

China and Pakistan activated the Boundary Joint Commission- a long-pending joint mechanism for managing their de facto border. This drew India's ire, which rejected this commission and called upon Pakistan to immediately vacate areas under its illegal and forcible occupation. 

For decades, Pakistan and China have been illegally occupying Indian territory. Reigniting tensions with India further, both nations activated a long-pending joint mechanism for managing their de facto border. This comes even as both countries officially don't share a border. Let's jog your memory back to 1963. Back then, Pakistan and China signed a so-called boundary agreement. Under this pact, Pakistan illegally ceded five thousand one hundred and eighty square kilometres of Shaksgam Valley to China. 50 years later, both sides signed an agreement on a boundary management system for managing the already demarcated boundary. Last month, the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission was formally operationalised. The first meeting of this commission was held in Islamabad. According to Pakistan, it set the stage for enhanced cooperation in border management, joint border surveys, trade flows and people-to-people connectivity. Now, India categorically rejected the legality of this commission and stressed that the 1963 Pakistan-China pact in itself is illegal and invalid. The Ministry of External Affairs added, and I am quoting it, "Any so-called boundary cooperation between China and Pakistan concerning Indian territories would be completely unacceptable and would have no bearing whatsoever on India's sovereignty over these territories". India also called upon Pakistan to immediately vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Now, the significance of Shaksgam Valley cannot be understated. It is situated in a sensitive area bordering China's Xinjiang province. It lies to the north of the Karakoram Range and was illegally occupied by Pakistan after independence. But on the whole, what is the purpose of this new boundary commission formed by Pakistan and China? Retired Major General Sudhakar Jee decoded this while speaking to WION. He said, "So by going in for this particular commission, both the countries, apart from the trade flows, are going to facilitate border activities, exchange of police, information, and intelligence. Also, this will facilitate and enable China to mobilise its People's Liberation Army through this pass into Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir." According to this senior defence expert, the danger is clear, as China has already infiltrated thousands of soldiers into the illegally occupied territory of Gilgit-Baltistan. He advocated a multi-pronged approach, including raising the matter at international forums. The geopolitical expert urged India to not only highlight how the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor passes through illegally occupied territory, but also to negotiate directly with China to reclaim the strategic Shaksgam Valley.

China and Pakistan activated the Boundary Joint Commission- a long-pending joint mechanism for managing their de facto border. This drew India's ire, which rejected this commission and called upon Pakistan to immediately vacate areas under its illegal and forcible occupation.&nbsp;

Federal agents on Monday raided the home of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar as part of the ongoing criminal fraud investigation of the Somali-born lawmaker's immigration paperwork.&nbsp;“Today in the Washington, DC area, Homeland Security Investigations executed a judicially authorised search warrant secured by the Department of Justice,” the Department of Justice said in a statement.“This enforcement action is part of an ongoing federal investigation,” the statement concluded.Homeland Security Investigations is part of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ⁠ICE. Tom Homan, the Trump administration's border czar, told Fox Business Network that the Justice Department is leading ​the investigation with the Department of Homeland Security.Sources close to the matter indicate the probe centres on alleged criminal fraud involving Omar's childhood immigration paperwork, which was filled out by her late father when she arrived in the US from Somalia. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is on the ballot in the upcoming midterm election in November. She is running for reelection in a safe Democratic district. She won reelection in 2024 by a margin of 50 percentage points.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jantar-mantar-denotified-protest-site-cjp-congress-reaction-1791809336194">Jantar Mantar denotified as protest site, CJP says ‘dictator is terrified’</a>"Americans see this for what it is," Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, wrote on social media. "President ​Trump is abusing his power to go after political opponents weeks before an election." Spokesperson for Omar did not comment on the raid.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted Ilhan Omar on her US citizenship status, and her progressive viewsand percieves the Somali American community as a threat to Minnesota. He claimed that Somali refugees "have done to Minnesota should never be allowed". Omar has previously denied all allegations of immigration and marriage fraud, dismissing them as “complete shams” and called out Trump's obsession with her as “unhealthy and creepy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Federal agents raided Ilhan Omar’s home as part of an investigation into alleged immigration paperwork fraud, weeks before the US midterm elections.

Federal agents on Monday raided the home of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar as part of the ongoing criminal fraud investigation of the Somali-born lawmaker's immigration paperwork. “Today in the Washington, DC area, Homeland Security Investigations executed a judicially authorised search warrant secured by the Department of Justice,” the Department of Justice said in a statement. “This enforcement action is part of an ongoing federal investigation,” the statement concluded. Homeland Security Investigations is part of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ⁠ICE. Tom Homan, the Trump administration's border czar, told Fox Business Network that the Justice Department is leading the investigation with the Department of Homeland Security. Sources close to the matter indicate the probe centres on alleged criminal fraud involving Omar's childhood immigration paperwork, which was filled out by her late father when she arrived in the US from Somalia. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is on the ballot in the upcoming midterm election in November. She is running for reelection in a safe Democratic district. She won reelection in 2024 by a margin of 50 percentage points. Also Read: Jantar Mantar denotified as protest site, CJP says ‘dictator is terrified’ "Americans see this for what it is," Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, wrote on social media. "President Trump is abusing his power to go after political opponents weeks before an election." Spokesperson for Omar did not comment on the raid. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted Ilhan Omar on her US citizenship status, and her progressive viewsand percieves the Somali American community as a threat to Minnesota. He claimed that Somali refugees "have done to Minnesota should never be allowed". Omar has previously denied all allegations of immigration and marriage fraud, dismissing them as “complete shams” and called out Trump's obsession with her as “unhealthy and creepy.”

Federal agents raided Ilhan Omar’s home as part of an investigation into alleged immigration paperwork fraud, weeks before the US midterm elections.

US federal agents raid Dem Rep Ilhan Omar’s home ahead of midterms

Ahead of the November 3, 2026, US midterm elections, Arizona cements its status as a critical political battleground state. A complex mosaic of voters, deeply fractured across geographical, generational, and cultural lines. This shapes the race for the governorship, control of the state legislature, and highly competitive US House seats. Arizona remains one of the most closely watched midterm battlegrounds in the US. The governor’s seat, both chambers of the state legislature, and two competitive US House districts, CD1 and CD6, are all on the ballot, and each is shaped by a distinct voting bloc: border communities, retirees, and tribal nations.<h3>The Border factor</h3>Arizona’s 370-mile border with Mexico makes immigration a defining issue, especially in District 6, represented by Republican Juan Ciscomani. The 44-year-old faces Democrat Kirsten Engel in a seat covering Tucson’s eastern suburbs, the Santa Cruz Valley, and rural southeastern counties bordering Mexico, a seat he won in 2022 by fewer than 5,000 votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mid-term-elections-what-are-pacs-unique-american-system-that-lets-corporates-shape-voting-1791663098070">US mid-term elections: What are PACs - Unique American System that lets corporates shape voting</a> Ciscomani has credited Trump-era enforcement policies with reducing border crossings to historic lows, while Mendoza has pushed back against suggestions she is soft on security, noting she opposes wall construction through tribal lands specifically. In District 1, voters rank immigration and border security as their top concern at 32 per cent, ahead of economic issues at 29 per cent, in a seat redrawn to be competitive since 2022.<h3>The Retiree vote</h3>Arizona’s large population of retirees, concentrated in Maricopa County communities like Sun City, remains a pivotal bloc, particularly in District 1, which spans northeastern Maricopa County and reaches into Gila, Pinal, and Yavapai counties, blending suburban Phoenix voters with rural communities. Cost-of-living and healthcare concerns typically weigh heavily with this demographic, and both parties are courting them aggressively given the razor-thin margins separating the candidates.<h3>The Tribal Vote</h3>Arizona’s 22 federally recognised tribes, including the Navajo Nation, carry real electoral weight. District 1 notably stretches from Tucson northeast toward the Navajo Nation, making tribal turnout a factor in that toss-up race. Separately, the Navajo Nation is holding its own presidential election this November, with more than 145,000 registered voters choosing between Speaker Crystalyne Curley and other finalists, a contest that could also shape engagement with the broader Arizona ballot.

Arizona has a complex mosaic of voters, deeply fractured across geographical, generational, and cultural lines. This shapes the race for the governorship, control of the state legislature, and highly competitive US House seats.

Ahead of the November 3, 2026, US midterm elections, Arizona cements its status as a critical political battleground state. A complex mosaic of voters, deeply fractured across geographical, generational, and cultural lines. This shapes the race for the governorship, control of the state legislature, and highly competitive US House seats. Arizona remains one of the most closely watched midterm battlegrounds in the US. The governor’s seat, both chambers of the state legislature, and two competitive US House districts, CD1 and CD6, are all on the ballot, and each is shaped by a distinct voting bloc: border communities, retirees, and tribal nations. The Border factor Arizona’s 370-mile border with Mexico makes immigration a defining issue, especially in District 6, represented by Republican Juan Ciscomani. The 44-year-old faces Democrat Kirsten Engel in a seat covering Tucson’s eastern suburbs, the Santa Cruz Valley, and rural southeastern counties bordering Mexico, a seat he won in 2022 by fewer than 5,000 votes. Also read: US mid-term elections: What are PACs - Unique American System that lets corporates shape voting Ciscomani has credited Trump-era enforcement policies with reducing border crossings to historic lows, while Mendoza has pushed back against suggestions she is soft on security, noting she opposes wall construction through tribal lands specifically. In District 1, voters rank immigration and border security as their top concern at 32 per cent, ahead of economic issues at 29 per cent, in a seat redrawn to be competitive since 2022. The Retiree vote Arizona’s large population of retirees, concentrated in Maricopa County communities like Sun City, remains a pivotal bloc, particularly in District 1, which spans northeastern Maricopa County and reaches into Gila, Pinal, and Yavapai counties, blending suburban Phoenix voters with rural communities. Cost-of-living and healthcare concerns typically weigh heavily with this demographic, and both parties are courting them aggressively given the razor-thin margins separating the candidates. The Tribal Vote Arizona’s 22 federally recognised tribes, including the Navajo Nation, carry real electoral weight. District 1 notably stretches from Tucson northeast toward the Navajo Nation, making tribal turnout a factor in that toss-up race. Separately, the Navajo Nation is holding its own presidential election this November, with more than 145,000 registered voters choosing between Speaker Crystalyne Curley and other finalists, a contest that could also shape engagement with the broader Arizona ballot.

Arizona has a complex mosaic of voters, deeply fractured across geographical, generational, and cultural lines. This shapes the race for the governorship, control of the state legislature, and highly competitive US House seats.

US midterm Arizonas: Border towns, retirement communities and tribal lands set to decide 2026 results

A 60-year-old man was beaten to death after a brawl broke out inside an adult store in Chelsea, USA, on Monday (October 12). The incident occurred when the victim and a suspect were arguing nearly 9 p.m. on Sunday inside Rainbow Station on Eighth Avenue. Later, their argument escalated, and the dispute moved outside, where it became physical, according to Police. Investigators revealed that the suspect pushed the man to the ground, struck him in the head, stomped on him repeatedly and then escaped the scene. Video has also surfaced from the scene, showing police photographing clothing and shoes outside the store. Blood and evidence markers were also seen on the ground.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telangana-man-dies-russia-ukraine-border-military-recruitment-1791800048663">Telangana man allegedly recruited into Russian military dies near Ukraine border</a><h3>Victim declared dead in hospital</h3>Following the incident, the victim was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said, adding that the suspect later returned to the area where cops spotted him and took him into custody. Police have identified the suspect as Imani McColley, 25, of Queens. He has been charged with murder and two counts of robbery. The identity of the victim has not been released, as authorities are waiting to notify next of kin. Investigators have not yet confirmed a motive, but a business employee told Eyewitness News that McColley grew angry after he was refused entry to a basement club inside the establishment. According to police, McColley has at least five prior arrests. His most recent came in September 2025, on an assault charge tied to an incident just one block from the site of Sunday’s fatal beating.

Investigators revealed that the suspect pushed the man to the ground, struck him in the head, stomped on him continuously, and then escaped the scene. 

A 60-year-old man was beaten to death after a brawl broke out inside an adult store in Chelsea, USA, on Monday (October 12). The incident occurred when the victim and a suspect were arguing nearly 9 p.m. on Sunday inside Rainbow Station on Eighth Avenue. Later, their argument escalated, and the dispute moved outside, where it became physical, according to Police. Investigators revealed that the suspect pushed the man to the ground, struck him in the head, stomped on him repeatedly and then escaped the scene. Video has also surfaced from the scene, showing police photographing clothing and shoes outside the store. Blood and evidence markers were also seen on the ground. Also read: Telangana man allegedly recruited into Russian military dies near Ukraine border Victim declared dead in hospital Following the incident, the victim was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said, adding that the suspect later returned to the area where cops spotted him and took him into custody. Police have identified the suspect as Imani McColley, 25, of Queens. He has been charged with murder and two counts of robbery. The identity of the victim has not been released, as authorities are waiting to notify next of kin. Investigators have not yet confirmed a motive, but a business employee told Eyewitness News that McColley grew angry after he was refused entry to a basement club inside the establishment. According to police, McColley has at least five prior arrests. His most recent came in September 2025, on an assault charge tied to an incident just one block from the site of Sunday’s fatal beating.

Investigators revealed that the suspect pushed the man to the ground, struck him in the head, stomped on him continuously, and then escaped the scene.&nbsp;

60-year-old man beaten to death outside adult store in US' Chelsea, suspect charged with murder

India could achieve complete self-reliance in military aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) within the next 10 to 15 years, provided the current pace of reforms continues, according to Bharat Malkani, Chairman and Managing Director of Max Aerospace Group.Speaking exclusively on WION's Defence Pulse on its Pathfinder segment, Malkani highlighted the growing importance of building an indigenous aviation maintenance ecosystem alongside India's expanding military aircraft manufacturing capabilities.“At the rate of change, assuming the rate of change continues as it is today under the government, we anticipate it will take 10 to 15 years to be able to achieve 100% self-reliance,” Malkani said.He cautioned that any slowdown in reforms would directly affect this timeline.<h2>Private Industry Investment Critical</h2>India already manufactures military aircraft and helicopters, including the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). However, developing domestic capabilities to repair engines, manufacture critical components and upgrade aircraft systems remains essential for sustaining operational readiness.Malkani argued that the country possesses the technical expertise to support these platforms but requires greater investment.“Do we have the capability today for sustainment? Yes. Can we do it? No,” he said, highlighting the gap between technical potential and available resources.He stressed that government investment has historically been concentrated in public-sector companies and called for greater participation from qualified private-sector aerospace firms.“Investment from government must now start to flow to the qualifying Indian private sector companies,” he said.<h2>India as a Global Aerospace Hub</h2>Beyond domestic military requirements, Malkani believes India can emerge as an international centre for aviation maintenance and manufacturing.“Not just MRO, I think India has the ability to become a manufacturing hub,” he said.Pointing to the global achievements of Indian engineers, he argued that India's technical talent could support the development of advanced aircraft for international markets.“I believe we can be a manufacturing capability hub for not just India but India's friends,” Malkani added.His assessment places aviation sustainment at the centre of India's defence self-reliance ambitions, where the ability to independently maintain and return aircraft to service could prove as strategically important as manufacturing them.

Max Aerospace CMD Bharat Malkani tells WION that India could achieve complete military aviation MRO self-reliance in 10-15 years if reforms continue.

India could achieve complete self-reliance in military aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) within the next 10 to 15 years, provided the current pace of reforms continues, according to Bharat Malkani, Chairman and Managing Director of Max Aerospace Group. Speaking exclusively on WION's Defence Pulse on its Pathfinder segment, Malkani highlighted the growing importance of building an indigenous aviation maintenance ecosystem alongside India's expanding military aircraft manufacturing capabilities. “At the rate of change, assuming the rate of change continues as it is today under the government, we anticipate it will take 10 to 15 years to be able to achieve 100% self-reliance,” Malkani said. He cautioned that any slowdown in reforms would directly affect this timeline. Private Industry Investment Critical India already manufactures military aircraft and helicopters, including the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). However, developing domestic capabilities to repair engines, manufacture critical components and upgrade aircraft systems remains essential for sustaining operational readiness. Malkani argued that the country possesses the technical expertise to support these platforms but requires greater investment. “Do we have the capability today for sustainment? Yes. Can we do it? No,” he said, highlighting the gap between technical potential and available resources. He stressed that government investment has historically been concentrated in public-sector companies and called for greater participation from qualified private-sector aerospace firms. “Investment from government must now start to flow to the qualifying Indian private sector companies,” he said. India as a Global Aerospace Hub Beyond domestic military requirements, Malkani believes India can emerge as an international centre for aviation maintenance and manufacturing. “Not just MRO, I think India has the ability to become a manufacturing hub,” he said. Pointing to the global achievements of Indian engineers, he argued that India's technical talent could support the development of advanced aircraft for international markets. “I believe we can be a manufacturing capability hub for not just India but India's friends,” Malkani added. His assessment places aviation sustainment at the centre of India's defence self-reliance ambitions, where the ability to independently maintain and return aircraft to service could prove as strategically important as manufacturing them.

Max Aerospace CMD Bharat Malkani tells WION that India could achieve complete military aviation MRO self-reliance in 10-15 years if reforms continue.

'Indian Engineers Among the Finest in the World': Max Aerospace Chief on India's Aviation Ambitions | Defence Pulse

New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Ethiopia centred on strengthening bilateral ties, economic partnership and the shared Global South agenda, according to Ethiopia’s Chargé d’Affaires in New Delhi, Nebiyu Tedla Negash. In an interview to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said the two sides also exchanged views on the regional situation, including what he described as an invasion by Eritrean forces.&nbsp;Mr Negash said Mr Jaishankar, who was on an African tour, focused on “enhancing the bilateral relationship with Ethiopia”. He held extensive discussions with his Ethiopian counterpart, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, covering the bilateral relationship and “possibilities of enhancing relations to a higher level”.&nbsp;“One of the issues that they also discussed to enhance their bilateral level is to work on the economy aspect between the countries,” Mr Negash said. “As you know, more than 675 Indian investors have invested in Ethiopia… and they have discussed on ways to enhance the economic partnership between the two countries.” The ministers also exchanged views on regional and multilateral matters.&nbsp;Both countries are BRICS members. Mr Negash noted that the current global situation is “very challenging” and the multilateral system is under pressure. “With countries like India, Ethiopia is working on various aspects, including on the platform of the BRICS, to further advocate the voice of the Global South and also to work on further advancing the reform of the international system, including the financial and economic architecture of the global order,” he said. He added that the two sides could build on existing decisions to advance the economic side of their relationship bilaterally and multilaterally.&nbsp;On United Nations Security Council reform, a long-standing Indian priority, Mr Negash said the UN, founded in 1945, “should be fit for purpose” to address current challenges.&nbsp;Ethiopia supports the Ezulwini Consensus, under which African countries have requested two additional non-permanent seats beyond the three they already hold, plus permanent seats “with veto power, with all the privileges”.&nbsp;“I think India and other emerging countries from the Global South… need to have their representation felt in the UN Security Council and in other UN structures,” he said. “Not only India, but other countries have been also asking this and advocating for this, and hopefully the reform of the Security Council will happen.”&nbsp;Turning to regional security, Mr Negash confirmed that the two ministers discussed “in detail of the current situation in the region, including the invasion by Eritrean forces and incursions into Ethiopian sovereign territories”. They exchanged views on where they could work together “bilaterally, as well as multilaterally, including the UN, the BRICS and other forums”.&nbsp;&nbsp;The comments come as Ethiopia and Eritrea have traded accusations of aggression amid fighting in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, with Addis Ababa accusing Eritrean forces of advancing deep into its territory and warning of its right to self-defence.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mr Jaishankar’s visit, the final leg of a three-nation African tour, also included meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and discussions spanning trade, investment, infrastructure, maritime security, technology and culture, according to official statements.

Ethiopia supports the Ezulwini Consensus, under which African countries have requested two additional non-permanent seats beyond the three they already hold, plus permanent seats “with veto power, with all the privileges”.

New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Ethiopia centred on strengthening bilateral ties, economic partnership and the shared Global South agenda, according to Ethiopia’s Chargé d’Affaires in New Delhi, Nebiyu Tedla Negash. In an interview to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said the two sides also exchanged views on the regional situation, including what he described as an invasion by Eritrean forces. Mr Negash said Mr Jaishankar, who was on an African tour, focused on “enhancing the bilateral relationship with Ethiopia”. He held extensive discussions with his Ethiopian counterpart, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, covering the bilateral relationship and “possibilities of enhancing relations to a higher level”. “One of the issues that they also discussed to enhance their bilateral level is to work on the economy aspect between the countries,” Mr Negash said. “As you know, more than 675 Indian investors have invested in Ethiopia… and they have discussed on ways to enhance the economic partnership between the two countries.” The ministers also exchanged views on regional and multilateral matters. Both countries are BRICS members. Mr Negash noted that the current global situation is “very challenging” and the multilateral system is under pressure. “With countries like India, Ethiopia is working on various aspects, including on the platform of the BRICS, to further advocate the voice of the Global South and also to work on further advancing the reform of the international system, including the financial and economic architecture of the global order,” he said. He added that the two sides could build on existing decisions to advance the economic side of their relationship bilaterally and multilaterally. On United Nations Security Council reform, a long-standing Indian priority, Mr Negash said the UN, founded in 1945, “should be fit for purpose” to address current challenges. Ethiopia supports the Ezulwini Consensus, under which African countries have requested two additional non-permanent seats beyond the three they already hold, plus permanent seats “with veto power, with all the privileges”. “I think India and other emerging countries from the Global South… need to have their representation felt in the UN Security Council and in other UN structures,” he said. “Not only India, but other countries have been also asking this and advocating for this, and hopefully the reform of the Security Council will happen.” Turning to regional security, Mr Negash confirmed that the two ministers discussed “in detail of the current situation in the region, including the invasion by Eritrean forces and incursions into Ethiopian sovereign territories”. They exchanged views on where they could work together “bilaterally, as well as multilaterally, including the UN, the BRICS and other forums”. The comments come as Ethiopia and Eritrea have traded accusations of aggression amid fighting in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, with Addis Ababa accusing Eritrean forces of advancing deep into its territory and warning of its right to self-defence. Mr Jaishankar’s visit, the final leg of a three-nation African tour, also included meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and discussions spanning trade, investment, infrastructure, maritime security, technology and culture, according to official statements.

Ethiopia supports the Ezulwini Consensus, under which African countries have requested two additional non-permanent seats beyond the three they already hold, plus permanent seats “with veto power, with all the privileges”.

Ethiopia’s top diplomat in Delhi says EAM Jaishankar visit focused on economic ties; Eritrean ‘invasion’ discussed

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that his country would retaliate if Moscow did not agree to the “energy ceasefire” announced unilaterally by US President Donald Trump on Sunday evening.“If Russia does not agree to an energy ceasefire, we will respond,” Zelensky said while addressing the Warsaw Security Forum via videolink.&nbsp;Trump sparked confusion by announcing an energy ceasefire between the two warring countries without providing any details. The announcement left Kyiv in astonishment, elicited silence from Moscow and support from Ukraine’s Western allies.&nbsp;“We are waiting for the details of the conversation between the Americans and the Russians, and we are waiting to see what specific steps the Americans are ready to take,” Zelensky said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-s-response-to-houthi-attacks-to-be-equally-serious-says-energy-minister-1791803528884">Saudi Arabia’s response to Houthi attacks to be ‘equally serious’, says energy minister</a>&nbsp;Trump’s announcement on Sunday came two days after he declared a temporary easing of US sanctions on Russian diesel, prompting outrage by European allies and Kyiv, who said it would only embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;“If Russia wants us to stop our long-range strikes against its oil refineries and oil exports, then Russia must stop its strikes against our energy system and critical infrastructure and stop killing our people,” Zelensky said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Energy ceasefire needed in reality, not just on Truth Social’</h2>&nbsp;Trump has been making announcements about any truces or other arrangements on his Truth Social account before either Kyiv or Moscow confirm them.“An energy ceasefire and other steps to reduce escalation and guarantee security are truly needed here in reality, not just on Truth Social,” Zelensky said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-e-hall-michael-woodford-win-2026-nobel-memorial-prize-in-economics-1791798840575">Robert E Hall, Michael Woodford win 2026 Nobel prize in economics</a>&nbsp;However, Russia hit power plants in Ukraine just hours after Trump said the two countries had agreed on an energy ceasefire.&nbsp;Residents in the city of Izyum in Ukraine were hit by blackouts after a Russian strike destroyed power grids, according to Ukraine’s state news agency Ukrinform.Energy and railway infrastructure in the region of Zhytomyr in western Ukraine were also targeted by overnight attacks by Russia, said the head of the region’s military administration, Vitaliy Bunechko.&nbsp;Zelensky also said that Russia is blocking grain exports from Ukraine and added that an “agricultural crisis” will unfold within two months. “The US isn’t feeling the effects of this, which is why the focus is only on energy,” he said.

President Donald Trump sparked confusion by announcing an energy ceasefire between the two warring countries without providing any details. The announcement on Sunday left Kyiv in astonishment, elicited silence from Moscow and support from Ukraine’s Western allies.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that his country would retaliate if Moscow did not agree to the “energy ceasefire” announced unilaterally by US President Donald Trump on Sunday evening. “If Russia does not agree to an energy ceasefire, we will respond,” Zelensky said while addressing the Warsaw Security Forum via videolink. Trump sparked confusion by announcing an energy ceasefire between the two warring countries without providing any details. The announcement left Kyiv in astonishment, elicited silence from Moscow and support from Ukraine’s Western allies. “We are waiting for the details of the conversation between the Americans and the Russians, and we are waiting to see what specific steps the Americans are ready to take,” Zelensky said. Also Read: Saudi Arabia’s response to Houthi attacks to be ‘equally serious’, says energy minister Trump’s announcement on Sunday came two days after he declared a temporary easing of US sanctions on Russian diesel, prompting outrage by European allies and Kyiv, who said it would only embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin. “If Russia wants us to stop our long-range strikes against its oil refineries and oil exports, then Russia must stop its strikes against our energy system and critical infrastructure and stop killing our people,” Zelensky said. ‘Energy ceasefire needed in reality, not just on Truth Social’ Trump has been making announcements about any truces or other arrangements on his Truth Social account before either Kyiv or Moscow confirm them. “An energy ceasefire and other steps to reduce escalation and guarantee security are truly needed here in reality, not just on Truth Social,” Zelensky said. Also Read: Robert E Hall, Michael Woodford win 2026 Nobel prize in economics However, Russia hit power plants in Ukraine just hours after Trump said the two countries had agreed on an energy ceasefire. Residents in the city of Izyum in Ukraine were hit by blackouts after a Russian strike destroyed power grids, according to Ukraine’s state news agency Ukrinform. Energy and railway infrastructure in the region of Zhytomyr in western Ukraine were also targeted by overnight attacks by Russia, said the head of the region’s military administration, Vitaliy Bunechko. Zelensky also said that Russia is blocking grain exports from Ukraine and added that an “agricultural crisis” will unfold within two months. “The US isn’t feeling the effects of this, which is why the focus is only on energy,” he said.

President Donald Trump sparked confusion by announcing an energy ceasefire between the two warring countries without providing any details. The announcement on Sunday left Kyiv in astonishment, elicited silence from Moscow and support from Ukraine’s Western allies.

Zelensky says Ukraine ‘will respond’ if Russia does not follow ‘energy ceasefire’

Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud said on Monday at the WPC Energy Congress that the “recent events” were serious and warned Iran-backed Houthis that Saudi Arabia’s response would be “equally serious”.&nbsp;He thanked all the delegates who gathered in Riyadh for the WPC Energy Congress, despite the Houthi attacks on the city’s King Khalid international airport.“You know this country is safe and that we hold your protection at heart,” the Saudi minister said, adding, "Riyadh is the capital of energy security, and your presence here today proves that. Our gathering today does not mean that risks have disappeared.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Saudi Arabia made of fearless, combatant and determined people’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, however, reassured the world’s energy industry that escalating attacks on the kingdom would not disrupt its role as a major oil supplier.&nbsp;He said that Saudis “are fearless, combatant, and determined people, and we shall prove it to the world”.Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud made the comment at the inauguration of the 25th WPC Energy Congress.&nbsp;<h2>‘Energy security cannot be taken for granted,’ warns Saudi oil minister</h2>&nbsp;Referring to the energy supply constriction, Saudi Arabia’s energy minister said energy systems “are being tested” around the world.“Supply routes have been disturbed. Infrastructure has been attacked and supply chains have been strained,” Abdulaziz bin Salman said.“Government, businesses and consumers have been reminded of a fundamental truth: Energy security cannot be taken for granted,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>US embassy urges ‘extreme caution’ in Saudi Arabia’s airports</h2>&nbsp;The US embassy in Saudi Arabia on Monday urged American citizens to exercise “extreme caution” when using all major airports in the country, following a weekend of strikes that killed a total of 13 people.“The US Mission is aware of additional attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and targeted attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 11,” the embassy said in a statement.“Please take extreme caution when using all major airports in Saudi Arabia,” it added.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister, Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, reassured the world’s energy industry that escalating attacks on the kingdom would not disrupt its role as a major oil supplier. He said Saudis are fearless, combatant, and determined people and shall prove it to the world.

Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud said on Monday at the WPC Energy Congress that the “recent events” were serious and warned Iran-backed Houthis that Saudi Arabia’s response would be “equally serious”. He thanked all the delegates who gathered in Riyadh for the WPC Energy Congress, despite the Houthi attacks on the city’s King Khalid international airport. “You know this country is safe and that we hold your protection at heart,” the Saudi minister said, adding, "Riyadh is the capital of energy security, and your presence here today proves that. Our gathering today does not mean that risks have disappeared.” ‘Saudi Arabia made of fearless, combatant and determined people’ Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, however, reassured the world’s energy industry that escalating attacks on the kingdom would not disrupt its role as a major oil supplier. He said that Saudis “are fearless, combatant, and determined people, and we shall prove it to the world”. Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud made the comment at the inauguration of the 25th WPC Energy Congress. ‘Energy security cannot be taken for granted,’ warns Saudi oil minister Referring to the energy supply constriction, Saudi Arabia’s energy minister said energy systems “are being tested” around the world. “Supply routes have been disturbed. Infrastructure has been attacked and supply chains have been strained,” Abdulaziz bin Salman said. “Government, businesses and consumers have been reminded of a fundamental truth: Energy security cannot be taken for granted,” he added. US embassy urges ‘extreme caution’ in Saudi Arabia’s airports The US embassy in Saudi Arabia on Monday urged American citizens to exercise “extreme caution” when using all major airports in the country, following a weekend of strikes that killed a total of 13 people. “The US Mission is aware of additional attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and targeted attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 11,” the embassy said in a statement. “Please take extreme caution when using all major airports in Saudi Arabia,” it added.

Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister, Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, reassured the world’s energy industry that escalating attacks on the kingdom would not disrupt its role as a major oil supplier. He said Saudis are fearless, combatant, and determined people and shall prove it to the world.

Saudi Arabia’s response to Houthi attacks to be ‘equally serious’, says energy minister

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