Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has been reportedly shot in Handlova, a town in the central part of the country, as he was leaving from a building after attending a meeting. A government meeting was held in the building earlier, said reports. Journalists at the scene report that several shots were fired.

As per reports, several shots were heard before the PM's security detail bundled him into a nearby car. He was airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital and was later flown to another hospital in Banska Bystrica, east of Handlova, reports say.&nbsp;

Politico reported the PM was shot in the chest and also sustained injuries to his head. People present at the spot saw the PM falling to the ground.

Slovak government in a statement to WION said the PM was in a 'life-threatening condition.'

"The PM is currently being transported by helicopter to Banská Bystrica in a life-threatening condition," the statement read.

Videos showing the aftermath of the shooting incident are circulating on social media but WION can't verify them independently.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🚨 🇸🇰 Breaking: Slovakia 
 
The Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico has just been shot in public. 
 
This comes only days after Fico formally &amp; publicly rejected The WHO Global Pandemic Accord ‼️ <a href="https://t.co/QIZOgGQCyE">pic.twitter.com/QIZOgGQCyE</a>
— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) <a href="https://twitter.com/BGatesIsaPyscho/status/1790734452722725330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
BREAKING: VIDEO OF SLOVAKIA PRIME MINISTER ROBERTO FICO BEING DRAGGED AWAY AFTER HE WAS SHOT MULTIPLE TIMES <a href="https://t.co/Sm2eSYisLe">pic.twitter.com/Sm2eSYisLe</a>
— Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaykhSulaiman/status/1790738625165951134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Police at the scene have detained the gunman.

<img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/card_img/1790737812049858561/1_azfs_K?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900" />

(Above image shows the gunman held by security officials)

The prime minister's&nbsp;office was not available for an immediate comment over the situation.

According to local media reports, the PM was first rushed to a security car and then airlifted by a helicopter to a nearby hospital.

Fico reclaimed the PM seat in the last September elections, and leads a populist-nationalist coalition.

He has been criticised by the West for not being supportive of Ukraine after he halted military aid to Kyiv in January this year.

He has also attracted controversial media coverage for his pro-Russia comments and efforts to expand control over state media.

Reacting to the news,&nbsp;Slovakia's outgoing president Zuzana Caputova said she was shocked by the "brutal and ruthless" attack and wished him strength to recover.

Michal Šimečka, an opposition leader, said he was “shocked and appalled” by the shooting.

“We unequivocally and strongly condemn any violence. We trust that Prime Minister Fico will be fine and that this terrible act will be brought to light as soon as possible,” Šimečka also said on X.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has been reportedly shot in Handlova, a town in the central part of the country, as he was leaving from a building after attending a meeting.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has been reportedly shot in Handlova, a town in the central part of the country, as he was leaving from a building after attending a meeting. A government meeting was held in the building earlier, said reports. Journalists at the scene report that several shots were fired. As per reports, several shots were heard before the PM's security detail bundled him into a nearby car. He was airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital and was later flown to another hospital in Banska Bystrica, east of Handlova, reports say. Politico reported the PM was shot in the chest and also sustained injuries to his head. People present at the spot saw the PM falling to the ground. Slovak government in a statement to WION said the PM was in a 'life-threatening condition.' "The PM is currently being transported by helicopter to Banská Bystrica in a life-threatening condition," the statement read. Videos showing the aftermath of the shooting incident are circulating on social media but WION can't verify them independently. 🚨 🇸🇰 Breaking: Slovakia The Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico has just been shot in public. This comes only days after Fico formally & publicly rejected The WHO Global Pandemic Accord ‼️ pic.twitter.com/QIZOgGQCyE — Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) May 15, 2024 × BREAKING: VIDEO OF SLOVAKIA PRIME MINISTER ROBERTO FICO BEING DRAGGED AWAY AFTER HE WAS SHOT MULTIPLE TIMES pic.twitter.com/Sm2eSYisLe — Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) May 15, 2024 × Police at the scene have detained the gunman. (Above image shows the gunman held by security officials) The prime minister's office was not available for an immediate comment over the situation. According to local media reports, the PM was first rushed to a security car and then airlifted by a helicopter to a nearby hospital. Fico reclaimed the PM seat in the last September elections, and leads a populist-nationalist coalition. He has been criticised by the West for not being supportive of Ukraine after he halted military aid to Kyiv in January this year. He has also attracted controversial media coverage for his pro-Russia comments and efforts to expand control over state media. Reacting to the news, Slovakia's outgoing president Zuzana Caputova said she was shocked by the "brutal and ruthless" attack and wished him strength to recover. Michal Šimečka, an opposition leader, said he was “shocked and appalled” by the shooting. “We unequivocally and strongly condemn any violence. We trust that Prime Minister Fico will be fine and that this terrible act will be brought to light as soon as possible,” Šimečka also said on X.

VIDEO: Slovak PM in ‘life-threatening condition’ after being shot in assassination attempt

The wife of Ukraine’s spy chief was poisoned in a suspected assassination attempt on Tuesday (Nov 28), and is being treated at a hospital.

Marianna Budanova (30), the wife of Lt Gen Kyrylo Budanov (37), who heads Ukrainian military intelligence agency GUR, was poisoned with ‘heavy metals’, Kyiv officials confirmed.

“Marianna Budanova was indeed poisoned by heavy metals. She is now undergoing a course of treatment, which is already coming to an end,” Yusov told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Ukrainian Service in an interview.

It is unclear how she was poisoned or who was responsible for it.

There are reports that apart from Budanova, several GUR personnel were also diagnosed with the same poisoning. An official statement with more details is yet to be released by GUR.

<h2>Officials launch probe&nbsp;</h2>

Ukraine's Babel news site, quoting unnamed intelligence sources, reported that Kyiv had opened an investigation and is considering it as an "attempted murder."

According to Babel, the substances found in her body "are not used in normal life or military affairs."

"Their presence may indicate a deliberate poisoning attempt," it said.

Commenting on the nature of the heavy metals, local media speculated that the metals were not used domestically or in military equipment, so the GUR representatives believe&nbsp;that the poisoning was carried out intentionally, possibly through food or drink.

<h2>Ukraine's spy chief survived 10 attempts on life</h2>

Let Gen Budanov has often been the subject of targeted attacks as he is considered to be the key man behind planning and sometimes executing major military operations against Russian forces, following Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

He is said to have survived 10 assassination attempts so far, with the local media pointing towards the role of the FSB, the Russian security agency.

Marianna Budanova, born in 1993 in Kyiv, has a master's degree in psychology. She later became involved in politics, working as an adviser to the mayor of Kyiv, according to BBC.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/relatives-anxious-as-hamas-terror-group-transfers-family-of-4-including-10-month-old-baby-to-another-group-663870">Relatives anxious as Hamas transfers family of 4, including 10-month-old baby, to another terror group</a>

In 2022, she told Elle magazine that she had also worked as a volunteer in Kyiv's military hospital in 2015-17.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-arrest-romanian-guru-of-controversial-yoga-sect-663910">French authorities arrest Romanian guru of controversial yoga sect</a>

In September, Lt Gen Budanov, 37, told the War Zone website that he and his wife had been staying in his office "since the February invasion" in 2022 for safety reasons.

"She's [Marianna] actually a professor at our national police academy. She's teaching legal psychology. It's not a problem for her as it might have been for someone else."

&nbsp;

The wife of Ukraine’s spy chief was poisoned in a suspected assassination attempt on Tuesday (Nov 28), and is being treated at a hospital. Marianna Budanova (30), the wife of Lt Gen Kyrylo Budanov (37), who heads Ukrainian military intelligence agency GUR, was poisoned with ‘heavy metals’, Kyiv officials confirmed.

The wife of Ukraine’s spy chief was poisoned in a suspected assassination attempt on Tuesday (Nov 28), and is being treated at a hospital. Marianna Budanova (30), the wife of Lt Gen Kyrylo Budanov (37), who heads Ukrainian military intelligence agency GUR, was poisoned with ‘heavy metals’, Kyiv officials confirmed. “Marianna Budanova was indeed poisoned by heavy metals. She is now undergoing a course of treatment, which is already coming to an end,” Yusov told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Ukrainian Service in an interview. It is unclear how she was poisoned or who was responsible for it. There are reports that apart from Budanova, several GUR personnel were also diagnosed with the same poisoning. An official statement with more details is yet to be released by GUR. Officials launch probe Ukraine's Babel news site, quoting unnamed intelligence sources, reported that Kyiv had opened an investigation and is considering it as an "attempted murder." According to Babel, the substances found in her body "are not used in normal life or military affairs." "Their presence may indicate a deliberate poisoning attempt," it said. Commenting on the nature of the heavy metals, local media speculated that the metals were not used domestically or in military equipment, so the GUR representatives believe that the poisoning was carried out intentionally, possibly through food or drink. Ukraine's spy chief survived 10 attempts on life Let Gen Budanov has often been the subject of targeted attacks as he is considered to be the key man behind planning and sometimes executing major military operations against Russian forces, following Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022. He is said to have survived 10 assassination attempts so far, with the local media pointing towards the role of the FSB, the Russian security agency. Marianna Budanova, born in 1993 in Kyiv, has a master's degree in psychology. She later became involved in politics, working as an adviser to the mayor of Kyiv, according to BBC. Also read | Relatives anxious as Hamas transfers family of 4, including 10-month-old baby, to another terror group In 2022, she told Elle magazine that she had also worked as a volunteer in Kyiv's military hospital in 2015-17. Also read | French authorities arrest Romanian guru of controversial yoga sect In September, Lt Gen Budanov, 37, told the War Zone website that he and his wife had been staying in his office "since the February invasion" in 2022 for safety reasons. "She's [Marianna] actually a professor at our national police academy. She's teaching legal psychology. It's not a problem for her as it might have been for someone else."

Ukraine spy chief’s wife poisoned with ‘heavy metals’ in suspected assassination attempt

As per a BBC report, a political activist from Laos who has survived an attempt on his life has now left the country to seek urgent medical care. According to videos circulating online, on 30th April, 25-year-old "Jack" Anousa Luangsuphom was shot point blank in the face and chest in the nation's capital, Vientiane.

Following the shooting, Luangsuphom's relatives reportedly claimed that the blogger had been killed. However, later activists said that he was alive and recovering in the hospital.

As per the BBC report quoting human rights lawyer Emilie Palamy Pradichit, the blogger's evacuation has been paid for by an online call for donations.

Palamy Pradichit, a human rights lawyer, works with the Manushya Foundation, and is Jack's&nbsp;representative. Pradichit has called for an independent inquiry into the attempted killing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-critic-of-laos-government-gunned-down-in-cafe-588614">Prominent critic of Laos government gunned down in cafe</a>

As per the lawyer, Luangsuphom is recovering at an undisclosed location. The bullet was removed from his chest and surgery was performed to repair his face.&nbsp;

The authorities in Laos have blamed the attack on a personal or business dispute, but Luangsuphom associates believe it was because of his work as one of the few outspoken campaigners in the country. They claim that an undercover police officer was sent to assassinate the blogger.

Security camera footage of the incident shows a man in a nondescript brown coloured hat. The man could be seen stepping inside the door to the cafe, where Luangsuphom was with three of his friends.&nbsp;

The video shows the man confirming the 25-year-old's presence before extracting a handgun and firing several shots.

Some are reportedly even comparing the attempt on Luangsuphom's life to the disappearance of another political activist, Sombath Somphone, who disappeared a decade ago. &nbsp;

"I believe that Jack's life is definitely in danger after leaving Laos," Ms Palamy Pradichit says. "Transnational repression of Lao dissidents is real and a growing phenomenon. In recent years, Lao democracy activists have disappeared or have been found killed in neighbouring countries, such as Thailand."

The political blogger ran two community Facebook pages that led to rare discussions on corruption, pollution, and civil rights in Laos, where one-party state repression is the norm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As per a BBC report, a political activist from Laos who has survived an attempt on his life has now left the country to seek urgent medical care. According to videos circulating online, on 30th April, 25-year-old "Jack" Anousa Luangsuphom was shot point blank in the face and chest in the nation's capital, Vientiane.

As per a BBC report, a political activist from Laos who has survived an attempt on his life has now left the country to seek urgent medical care. According to videos circulating online, on 30th April, 25-year-old "Jack" Anousa Luangsuphom was shot point blank in the face and chest in the nation's capital, Vientiane. Following the shooting, Luangsuphom's relatives reportedly claimed that the blogger had been killed. However, later activists said that he was alive and recovering in the hospital. As per the BBC report quoting human rights lawyer Emilie Palamy Pradichit, the blogger's evacuation has been paid for by an online call for donations. Palamy Pradichit, a human rights lawyer, works with the Manushya Foundation, and is Jack's representative. Pradichit has called for an independent inquiry into the attempted killing. Also read | Prominent critic of Laos government gunned down in cafe As per the lawyer, Luangsuphom is recovering at an undisclosed location. The bullet was removed from his chest and surgery was performed to repair his face. The authorities in Laos have blamed the attack on a personal or business dispute, but Luangsuphom associates believe it was because of his work as one of the few outspoken campaigners in the country. They claim that an undercover police officer was sent to assassinate the blogger. Security camera footage of the incident shows a man in a nondescript brown coloured hat. The man could be seen stepping inside the door to the cafe, where Luangsuphom was with three of his friends. The video shows the man confirming the 25-year-old's presence before extracting a handgun and firing several shots. Some are reportedly even comparing the attempt on Luangsuphom's life to the disappearance of another political activist, Sombath Somphone, who disappeared a decade ago. "I believe that Jack's life is definitely in danger after leaving Laos," Ms Palamy Pradichit says. "Transnational repression of Lao dissidents is real and a growing phenomenon. In recent years, Lao democracy activists have disappeared or have been found killed in neighbouring countries, such as Thailand." The political blogger ran two community Facebook pages that led to rare discussions on corruption, pollution, and civil rights in Laos, where one-party state repression is the norm. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Laos: 25-year-old government critic escapes assassination attempt, leaves nation for medical care

More than a year after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine, in the battle zone things now could be heading for a change. So, are we on the brink of a new chapter in the Russia-Ukraine war?

Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin?

After the alleged assassination attempt of the Russian President, Moscow says US was the mastermind behind the drone attack and Ukraine only does what it is told to do. But, both the US and Ukraine have rebuffed the claims made by Russia. So the mystery still remains who tried to assassinate Vladimir Putin.

The unsuccessful attempt to assassinate Russian President Putin

Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of the Chechen Republic, revealed on Monday morning (February 13) that his&nbsp;deputy head&nbsp;was poisoned on Wednesday&nbsp;(February 8) when he opened an envelope containing a toxic substance. Apti Alaudinov, who was also "commander of the Akhmat special forces and deputy commander of the 2nd Army Corps," was not in danger of dying, according to Kadyrov, and would recover. He was examined by a doctor in a Moscow facility, as reported by the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp;

"Friends, our dear brother ... Apti Alaudinov, was poisoned a few days ago," Kdyrov wrote on his Telegram account.&nbsp;

Alaudinov had allegedly received an envelope from an aide. After opening the letter, Alaudinov understood from a caustic smell that he had been exposed to a dangerous&nbsp;chemical. He quickly washed his hands and nasal cavity and&nbsp;was immediately given medical attention.&nbsp;

Samples of the poison were taken for examination and an investigation was opened into the assassination attempt, said Kadyrov. In August, Alaudinov was awarded the Hero of Russia title. The Russian invasion of Ukraine was strongly supported by Kadyrov and his Chechen fighters. The conflict has been dominated by Chechen forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-supplied-india-with-arms-worth-13-billion-in-last-5-years-russian-agencies-561311">Moscow supplied India with arms worth $13 billion in last 5 years: Russian agencies</a>

Additionally on Monday (February 13), the Russian Foreign Intelligence Services said that the US military was enlisting terrorists from the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda to carry out strikes on Russia and its allies, according to the Russian state-run news agency TASS. As&nbsp;per&nbsp;Russian intelligence, they were receiving training at an American base in Syria.

Also watch |&nbsp;Sudan military concludes review of Russian Red Sea base deal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sudan-military-concludes-review-of-russian-red-sea-base-deal-561557/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In the near future, it is planned to carry out the transfer of militants as part of small groups to the territory of Russia and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) states. They will be tasked with preparing and carrying out terrorist attacks against diplomats, civil servants, law enforcement officers and personnel of the armed forces," claimed the intelligence service, according to Russian news agency&nbsp;TASS.&nbsp;

Kadyrov&nbsp;commands a group of soldiers known as "Kadyrovtsy" or "Kadyrovites" in the Muslim-dominated republic of Russia.

Kadyrov has slammed&nbsp;Russian officers for their military failures&nbsp;in Ukraine, despite the fact that he has refrained from publicly criticising Vladimir Putin. Despite frequently denouncing the Kremlin's war to his three million followers on his Telgram channel, Kadyrov predicted last week that Russia will win the battle and that "the West would kneel."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of the Chechen Republic, revealed on Monday morning (February 13) that his deputy head was poisoned on Wednesday (February 8) when he opened an envelope containing a toxic substance.

Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of the Chechen Republic, revealed on Monday morning (February 13) that his deputy head was poisoned on Wednesday (February 8) when he opened an envelope containing a toxic substance. Apti Alaudinov, who was also "commander of the Akhmat special forces and deputy commander of the 2nd Army Corps," was not in danger of dying, according to Kadyrov, and would recover. He was examined by a doctor in a Moscow facility, as reported by the Jerusalem Post. "Friends, our dear brother ... Apti Alaudinov, was poisoned a few days ago," Kdyrov wrote on his Telegram account. Alaudinov had allegedly received an envelope from an aide. After opening the letter, Alaudinov understood from a caustic smell that he had been exposed to a dangerous chemical. He quickly washed his hands and nasal cavity and was immediately given medical attention. Samples of the poison were taken for examination and an investigation was opened into the assassination attempt, said Kadyrov. In August, Alaudinov was awarded the Hero of Russia title. The Russian invasion of Ukraine was strongly supported by Kadyrov and his Chechen fighters. The conflict has been dominated by Chechen forces. Also read | Moscow supplied India with arms worth $13 billion in last 5 years: Russian agencies Additionally on Monday (February 13), the Russian Foreign Intelligence Services said that the US military was enlisting terrorists from the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda to carry out strikes on Russia and its allies, according to the Russian state-run news agency TASS. As per Russian intelligence, they were receiving training at an American base in Syria. Also watch | Sudan military concludes review of Russian Red Sea base deal "In the near future, it is planned to carry out the transfer of militants as part of small groups to the territory of Russia and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) states. They will be tasked with preparing and carrying out terrorist attacks against diplomats, civil servants, law enforcement officers and personnel of the armed forces," claimed the intelligence service, according to Russian news agency TASS. Kadyrov commands a group of soldiers known as "Kadyrovtsy" or "Kadyrovites" in the Muslim-dominated republic of Russia. Kadyrov has slammed Russian officers for their military failures in Ukraine, despite the fact that he has refrained from publicly criticising Vladimir Putin. Despite frequently denouncing the Kremlin's war to his three million followers on his Telgram channel, Kadyrov predicted last week that Russia will win the battle and that "the West would kneel." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Commander of Russian special forces in Ukraine poisoned by substance sent in envelope

One of Mexico's most prominent faces in television news survived an assassination attempt near his home in the capital Mexico City. The attack on&nbsp;Ciro Gómez Leyva marks one of the most brazen attacks on a journalist Mexico has seen in decades

Ciro Gómez Leyva, a news anchor for the national news network Grupo Imagen, was driving a bulletproof SUV when a motorcycle pilot opened fire on him late Thursday night. Gomez was not injured, but the attack highlighted a significant&nbsp;escalation of violence against Mexican journalists under President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, popularly known as Amlo.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rsf-number-of-journalists-imprisoned-worldwide-hits-new-record-543195">Number of journalists imprisoned worldwide hits new record</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rsf-number-of-journalists-imprisoned-worldwide-hits-new-record-543195/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

At a press conference on Friday, the president condemned the attack on Gómez. “He is a journalist, a human being, but also a leader of public opinion. Injuring a figure like Ciro creates a lot of political instability,” Amlo said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/number-of-journalists-imprisoned-hit-record-high-more-than-one-killed-every-week-in-2022-rsf-543070">Number of journalists imprisoned hits record high; more than one killed every week in 2022: RSF</a>

Hours after surviving the assassination attempt, Levya was back at work on Friday and broadcasted his usual news briefings and debates on the Grupo Imagen news channel. Guests at his show admired his commitment in Spanish and praised the way even an assassination attempt couldn't halt his TV news schedule.&nbsp; 
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 42 journalists were killed during the first three years of Amla’s presidency. This compares to forty-five journalists killed during the entire six-year term of the last president, Enrique Peña Nieto.

Earlier, Rubén Espinoza, a photographer for Proceso Magazine, fled the state of Veracruz to Mexico City after receiving death threats while covering corruption allegations against then-governor Javier Duarte. In 2015, he was shot dead in his apartment along with four other people.

Mexico is considered one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a journalist. Until September this&nbsp;year, fifteen reporters have been murdered, according to the data compiled by Boston University Radio.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

One of Mexico's most prominent faces in television news survived an assassination attempt near his home in the capital Mexico City. The attack on Ciro Gómez Leyva marks one of the most brazen attacks on a journalist Mexico has seen in decades Ciro Gómez Leyva, a news anchor for the national news network Grupo Imagen, was driving a bulletproof SUV when a motorcycle pilot opened fire on him late Thursday night.

One of Mexico's most prominent faces in television news survived an assassination attempt near his home in the capital Mexico City. The attack on Ciro Gómez Leyva marks one of the most brazen attacks on a journalist Mexico has seen in decades Ciro Gómez Leyva, a news anchor for the national news network Grupo Imagen, was driving a bulletproof SUV when a motorcycle pilot opened fire on him late Thursday night. Gomez was not injured, but the attack highlighted a significant escalation of violence against Mexican journalists under President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, popularly known as Amlo. WATCH | Number of journalists imprisoned worldwide hits new record × At a press conference on Friday, the president condemned the attack on Gómez. “He is a journalist, a human being, but also a leader of public opinion. Injuring a figure like Ciro creates a lot of political instability,” Amlo said. ALSO READ | Number of journalists imprisoned hits record high; more than one killed every week in 2022: RSF Hours after surviving the assassination attempt, Levya was back at work on Friday and broadcasted his usual news briefings and debates on the Grupo Imagen news channel. Guests at his show admired his commitment in Spanish and praised the way even an assassination attempt couldn't halt his TV news schedule. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 42 journalists were killed during the first three years of Amla’s presidency. This compares to forty-five journalists killed during the entire six-year term of the last president, Enrique Peña Nieto. Earlier, Rubén Espinoza, a photographer for Proceso Magazine, fled the state of Veracruz to Mexico City after receiving death threats while covering corruption allegations against then-governor Javier Duarte. In 2015, he was shot dead in his apartment along with four other people. Mexico is considered one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a journalist. Until September this year, fifteen reporters have been murdered, according to the data compiled by Boston University Radio. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hours after surviving assassination bid, Mexican anchor gets back to newsroom

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, has pledged to continue his "Haqeeqi Azadi" protest march, according to representatives of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI), who spoke to the Press Trust of India on Friday morning. Imran Khan was the target of an "assassination attempt" on Thursday.&nbsp;Khan, 70, was shot in his legs during a political rally in Wazirabad, Punjab, Pakistan, when a gunman opened fire. Faisal Javed Khan, an adviser of the former prime minister who was also hurt in the incident, subsequently stated that the PTI leader will meet with authorities today to determine whether or not to continue his march.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Imran Khan will hold a party meeting at 1 pm today InshaALLAH. 
Future course of action to be decided.
— Faisal Javed Khan (@FaisalJavedKhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FaisalJavedKhan/status/1588428102111109120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Other party officials, like former information minister Fawad Chaudhry, have said the campaign will not stop.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
"The real freedom long march will continue and the movement for people's rights will remain until an announcement on the general elections," he said.
</blockquote>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
آج نماز جمعہ کے بعد تمام ملک میں احتجاج ہو گا. جب تک عمران خان کا مطالبہ پورا نہیں ہوتا، ملک گیر احتجاج جاری رہے گا
— Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Asad_Umar/status/1588399510614839296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In his initial statements following the incident, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-imran-khan-injured-in-assassination-attempt-530873">Khan</a> identified the perpetrators of the attempted "assassination" as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, interior minister Rana Sanaullah Khan&nbsp;and a senior army officer. Khan accused Sharif of earlier working with the United States to get him removed from office.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan: 'Imran Khan sustains bullet injures in both legs', main suspect under arrest

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-imran-khan-sustains-bullet-injures-in-both-legs-main-suspect-under-arrest-531131/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-imran-khan-assassination-attempt-what-actually-happened-530899">incident</a>, the Pakistani prime minister tweeted to denounce the attack and sought specific information from provincial police and administrative authorities.

Imran Khan, who was ousted in April after losing a vote of no confidence, was taken to the hospital but is said to be out of danger. A supporter in the rally&nbsp;was&nbsp;reportedly killed&nbsp;in the incident, which also left numerous other people injured.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, has pledged to continue his "Haqeeqi Azadi" protest march, according to representatives of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI), who spoke to the Press Trust of India on Friday morning.

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, has pledged to continue his "Haqeeqi Azadi" protest march, according to representatives of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI), who spoke to the Press Trust of India on Friday morning. Imran Khan was the target of an "assassination attempt" on Thursday. Khan, 70, was shot in his legs during a political rally in Wazirabad, Punjab, Pakistan, when a gunman opened fire. Faisal Javed Khan, an adviser of the former prime minister who was also hurt in the incident, subsequently stated that the PTI leader will meet with authorities today to determine whether or not to continue his march. Imran Khan will hold a party meeting at 1 pm today InshaALLAH. Future course of action to be decided. — Faisal Javed Khan (@FaisalJavedKhan) November 4, 2022 × Other party officials, like former information minister Fawad Chaudhry, have said the campaign will not stop. "The real freedom long march will continue and the movement for people's rights will remain until an announcement on the general elections," he said. آج نماز جمعہ کے بعد تمام ملک میں احتجاج ہو گا. جب تک عمران خان کا مطالبہ پورا نہیں ہوتا، ملک گیر احتجاج جاری رہے گا — Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) November 4, 2022 × In his initial statements following the incident, Khan identified the perpetrators of the attempted "assassination" as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, interior minister Rana Sanaullah Khan and a senior army officer. Khan accused Sharif of earlier working with the United States to get him removed from office. Also WATCH | Pakistan: 'Imran Khan sustains bullet injures in both legs', main suspect under arrest Following the incident, the Pakistani prime minister tweeted to denounce the attack and sought specific information from provincial police and administrative authorities. Imran Khan, who was ousted in April after losing a vote of no confidence, was taken to the hospital but is said to be out of danger. A supporter in the rally was reportedly killed in the incident, which also left numerous other people injured. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Imran Khan vows not to 'bow down' after assassination attempt; pledges to continue protest march

In Pakistan, political figures have previously been attacked. Fortunately, Imran Khan, the former prime minister, very narrowly escaped and sustained bullet shots in his right leg during his long march for "real freedom" on Thursday in Wazirabad. Six members of his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including its leader Faisal Javed and Ahmed Chattha, sustained injuries in the attack.&nbsp;A&nbsp;bigger tragedy was averted because one man had the presence of mind to tackle the gunman with bare hands. He is being hailed as a ‘hero’ by many Pakistanis.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is&nbsp;Ibtisam Hassan?</h2>

Supporters of Khan are hailing the man who fought off the armed assailant as a hero. Ibtisam Hassan, who is reportedly in his early thirties, has been named by some as the "saviour". According to reports, he was scooped up on the shoulders and lavished with compliments for his bravery.

According to Ibtisam, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-assassination-bid-music-played-during-call-for-prayer-among-reasons-given-by-attacker-531121">shooter attacked</a> while he was 10 to 12 feet away from the vehicle transporting Khan with a container mounted on it. He spotted a man loading his gun and keeping an eye on the 70-year-old PTI leader.

Ibtisam claimed that after the alleged shooter fired one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-vows-not-to-bow-down-following-assassination-attempt-continue-protest-march-531156">shot at Khan</a>, he&nbsp;lunged at the assailant, seized his hand, and forced it down towards the ground. The gunman&nbsp;fired again, but this time he struck another man. He apparently dropped the gun in the midst of the tussle.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just found this video of the shooter. 
Ibtisam Hassan, a youth worker of PTI was brave enough to catch him &amp; hold his gun down otherwise it would be have been even worse! 
These terror tactics by the criminals in office won’t hold us back. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%AD%D9%82%DB%8C%D9%82%DB%8C_%D8%A2%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%AF%DB%8C_%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%86%DA%AF_%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B1%DA%86?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#حقیقی_آزادی_لانگ_مارچ</a> <a href="https://t.co/kwPu8847PD">pic.twitter.com/kwPu8847PD</a>
— Ali Haider Zaidi (@AliHZaidiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/AliHZaidiPTI/status/1588143945959211009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“I saw him open fire and tackled him before he could fire another round. He dropped the gun and started fleeing. I chased and caught him... Khan sahab, jab tak hum zinda hain, aanch nahi aa sakti. (Khan sir, till the time I am alive, you will not be harmed),” the supporter of the former PM said, according to a report in&nbsp;India Today.

Ibtisam claimed to have pursued the suspect and apprehended him with the aid of other marchers.

<h2>The attacker</h2>

Naveed Mohammad Basheer has been named as the shooter who attacked Khan. In addition to admitting his crime, he charged the former PM&nbsp;with blasphemy, claiming that this was what drove him to attack Khan.

“<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-first-visuals-of-pak-ex-pm-imran-khan-from-hospital-after-assassination-bid-531077">Imran Khan</a> is misleading the people so I thought to kill him. He is doing blasphemy, playing music, and dancing when Azaan happens, I just want to kill Imran Khan. I will not leave him. There is no one behind me. I am alone," Basheer, a resident of Sodhra in the Wazirabad district, can be heard saying in a viral confessional video soon after he was arrested by the cops. He was caught with a 9mm pistol and two empty magazines.

Basheer was nabbed by the police and later taken to an “undisclosed location”.&nbsp;

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Imran Khan stable after suffering bullet injury; Pakistan PM, politicians slam assassination bid

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/imran-khan-stable-after-suffering-bullet-injury-pakistan-pm-politicians-slam-assassination-bid-531068/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

In Pakistan, political figures have previously been attacked. Fortunately, Imran Khan, the former prime minister, very narrowly escaped and sustained bullet shots in his right leg during his long march for "real freedom" on Thursday in Wazirabad.

In Pakistan, political figures have previously been attacked. Fortunately, Imran Khan, the former prime minister, very narrowly escaped and sustained bullet shots in his right leg during his long march for "real freedom" on Thursday in Wazirabad. Six members of his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including its leader Faisal Javed and Ahmed Chattha, sustained injuries in the attack. A bigger tragedy was averted because one man had the presence of mind to tackle the gunman with bare hands. He is being hailed as a ‘hero’ by many Pakistanis. Who is Ibtisam Hassan? Supporters of Khan are hailing the man who fought off the armed assailant as a hero. Ibtisam Hassan, who is reportedly in his early thirties, has been named by some as the "saviour". According to reports, he was scooped up on the shoulders and lavished with compliments for his bravery. According to Ibtisam, the shooter attacked while he was 10 to 12 feet away from the vehicle transporting Khan with a container mounted on it. He spotted a man loading his gun and keeping an eye on the 70-year-old PTI leader. Ibtisam claimed that after the alleged shooter fired one shot at Khan, he lunged at the assailant, seized his hand, and forced it down towards the ground. The gunman fired again, but this time he struck another man. He apparently dropped the gun in the midst of the tussle. Just found this video of the shooter. Ibtisam Hassan, a youth worker of PTI was brave enough to catch him & hold his gun down otherwise it would be have been even worse! These terror tactics by the criminals in office won’t hold us back. #حقیقی_آزادی_لانگ_مارچ pic.twitter.com/kwPu8847PD — Ali Haider Zaidi (@AliHZaidiPTI) November 3, 2022 × “I saw him open fire and tackled him before he could fire another round. He dropped the gun and started fleeing. I chased and caught him... Khan sahab, jab tak hum zinda hain, aanch nahi aa sakti. (Khan sir, till the time I am alive, you will not be harmed),” the supporter of the former PM said, according to a report in India Today. Ibtisam claimed to have pursued the suspect and apprehended him with the aid of other marchers. The attacker Naveed Mohammad Basheer has been named as the shooter who attacked Khan. In addition to admitting his crime, he charged the former PM with blasphemy, claiming that this was what drove him to attack Khan. “Imran Khan is misleading the people so I thought to kill him. He is doing blasphemy, playing music, and dancing when Azaan happens, I just want to kill Imran Khan. I will not leave him. There is no one behind me. I am alone," Basheer, a resident of Sodhra in the Wazirabad district, can be heard saying in a viral confessional video soon after he was arrested by the cops. He was caught with a 9mm pistol and two empty magazines. Basheer was nabbed by the police and later taken to an “undisclosed location”. Also WATCH | Imran Khan stable after suffering bullet injury; Pakistan PM, politicians slam assassination bid (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Imran Khan assassination attempt: Meet Ibtisam Hassan, the ‘hero’ who saved Pak former PM’s life

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

There have been many attempts to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin, a contentious political figure, if claims are to be believed.&nbsp;

Several people have been baying for the Russian strongman's blood, but Putin has always managed to escape unhurt.

So far, there have been five assassination attempts on the Russian strongman, excluding the one that took place this week.

Here are some of the instances when some came close to ending Putin's life.

Start of the Ukraine war

Earlier in May, Ukraine’s Chief of Defence Intelligence Kyrylo Budanov revealed said there had been an “unsuccessful attempt” on Putin’s life at the start of the Russian-Ukraine war,&nbsp;reports The Sun

Speaking to Ukrainian Pravda, Major-General Budanov said, "Putin was attacked."

“He was even attacked in the line of, as they say, representatives of the Caucasus not so long ago. This is non-public information. Absolutely unsuccessful attempt, but it really took place … It was about two months ago,” he added.

It was not clear who was behind the alleged attack or where it took place.

Azerbaijan

In 2002 during Putin's visit to Azerbaijan, an Iraqi man was held after plotting to kill the Russian leader.

The man was identified as an Iraqi citizen who was said to have links with Afghanistan and Chechen rebel forces.

He was set to deliver explosives to a co-conspirator. But by the time he could execute his plan, the security forces learned of the plot and arrested the man and his supposed accomplice.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-survives-assassination-attempt-report-516404" hreflang="en">Russian President Vladimir Putin survives assassination attempt: Report&nbsp;</a>

Both were sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Bombing Putin's motorway

In the same year in November, the authorities were tipped off about a plot to kill Putin.

According to local reports, they found 40kg of explosives waiting to be detonated along the motorway used by the 69-year-old Russian leader.

It was claimed that a group of people disguised as repairmen placed the bomb there. But an hour later, the devices mysteriously disappeared and Putin’s car was rerouted.

To this day, authorities refuse to reveal the matter and even deny that it ever took place.

UK Police thwart conspiracy

An anti-terror squad from British police reportedly foiled a plot to kill Putin in October 2003.

According to the Sunday Times, which quoted a source, two men suspected to be assassins were arrested for hatching a plot to kill Putin&nbsp;

One of the men was claimed to be a former Russian secret service hitman.

According to the report, these men had defected to Britain three years ago and were hired by a contract killer to assassinate Putin.

But the cops later released two men, aged 40 and 36after questioning and added that no further action would be taken against them.

Chechen rebel hatches a ‘plot’

In 2012, Rusian special forces captured a Chechen rebel, Adam Osmayev, who is said to have had links to the UK. He was caught in the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odesa.

State TV later showed that he was paraded in public with visible injuries, supposedly making a confession.

“Our goal was to go to Moscow and try to kill Prime Minister Putin … Our deadline was after the Russian presidential election,” he was quoted as saying.

According to the Russian security services, Osmayev was “a graduate of a prestigious institution of higher learning in Great Britain”, and was from a prominent Chechen family opposed to Putin.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. There have been many attempts to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin, a contentious political figure, if claims are to be believed. Several people have been baying for the Russian strongman's blood, but Putin has always managed to escape unhurt. So far, there have been five assassination attempts on the Russian strongman, excluding the one that took place this week. Here are some of the instances when some came close to ending Putin's life. Start of the Ukraine war Earlier in May, Ukraine’s Chief of Defence Intelligence Kyrylo Budanov revealed said there had been an “unsuccessful attempt” on Putin’s life at the start of the Russian-Ukraine war, reports The Sun Speaking to Ukrainian Pravda, Major-General Budanov said, "Putin was attacked." “He was even attacked in the line of, as they say, representatives of the Caucasus not so long ago. This is non-public information. Absolutely unsuccessful attempt, but it really took place … It was about two months ago,” he added. It was not clear who was behind the alleged attack or where it took place. Azerbaijan In 2002 during Putin's visit to Azerbaijan, an Iraqi man was held after plotting to kill the Russian leader. The man was identified as an Iraqi citizen who was said to have links with Afghanistan and Chechen rebel forces. He was set to deliver explosives to a co-conspirator. But by the time he could execute his plan, the security forces learned of the plot and arrested the man and his supposed accomplice. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin survives assassination attempt: Report Both were sentenced to 10 years in prison. Bombing Putin's motorway In the same year in November, the authorities were tipped off about a plot to kill Putin. According to local reports, they found 40kg of explosives waiting to be detonated along the motorway used by the 69-year-old Russian leader. It was claimed that a group of people disguised as repairmen placed the bomb there. But an hour later, the devices mysteriously disappeared and Putin’s car was rerouted. To this day, authorities refuse to reveal the matter and even deny that it ever took place. UK Police thwart conspiracy An anti-terror squad from British police reportedly foiled a plot to kill Putin in October 2003. According to the Sunday Times, which quoted a source, two men suspected to be assassins were arrested for hatching a plot to kill Putin One of the men was claimed to be a former Russian secret service hitman. According to the report, these men had defected to Britain three years ago and were hired by a contract killer to assassinate Putin. But the cops later released two men, aged 40 and 36after questioning and added that no further action would be taken against them. Chechen rebel hatches a ‘plot’ In 2012, Rusian special forces captured a Chechen rebel, Adam Osmayev, who is said to have had links to the UK. He was caught in the Ukrainian Black Sea port of Odesa. State TV later showed that he was paraded in public with visible injuries, supposedly making a confession. “Our goal was to go to Moscow and try to kill Prime Minister Putin … Our deadline was after the Russian presidential election,” he was quoted as saying. According to the Russian security services, Osmayev was “a graduate of a prestigious institution of higher learning in Great Britain”, and was from a prominent Chechen family opposed to Putin. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

How Russia's President Putin escaped five assassination attempts

The Vice President of Argentina Cristina Fernández de Kirchner survived an assassination attempt on Thursday. She was unharmed as the gun did not go off even as the man pushed through the crowd and raised the gun. The incident happened when she was greeting her supporters outside her house in the capital of Buenos Aires.

Argentina: VP Cristina Kirchner survives assassination attempt, suspect Brazilian national

According to a Ukrainian military official, Russian President Vladimir Putin survived an assassination attempt. The admission comes amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as speculation over&nbsp;Putin's health.

The "unsuccessful" attempt, according to Major General Kyrylo Budanov, chief of Ukraine's Defense Intelligence, took place in the Caucasus, a region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.

He told Ukrainska Pravda about the incident.

"There was an attempt to assassinate Putin... He was even attacked, it is said, by representatives of the Caucasus, not so long ago, "Mr. Budanov was quoted as saying by the Ukrainian outlet."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-putin-trying-to-extinguish-a-culture-says-joe-biden-481750">Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Putin trying to ‘extinguish a culture’, says Joe Biden</a> 
&nbsp;

"This is non-public information. (It was an) absolutely unsuccessful attempt, but it really happened... It was about 2 months ago, "he added.

Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and sections of southern Russia make up the Caucasus, also known as Caucasia, which is between the Black and Caspian oceans.

The assertion, which could not be independently corroborated, comes amid reports that Putin, 69, had surgery to drain fluid from his belly as his health allegedly deteriorated.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

According to a Ukrainian military official, Russian President Vladimir Putin survived an assassination attempt. The admission comes amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as speculation over Putin's health.

According to a Ukrainian military official, Russian President Vladimir Putin survived an assassination attempt. The admission comes amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as speculation over Putin's health. The "unsuccessful" attempt, according to Major General Kyrylo Budanov, chief of Ukraine's Defense Intelligence, took place in the Caucasus, a region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. He told Ukrainska Pravda about the incident. "There was an attempt to assassinate Putin... He was even attacked, it is said, by representatives of the Caucasus, not so long ago, "Mr. Budanov was quoted as saying by the Ukrainian outlet." Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Putin trying to ‘extinguish a culture’, says Joe Biden "This is non-public information. (It was an) absolutely unsuccessful attempt, but it really happened... It was about 2 months ago, "he added. Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and sections of southern Russia make up the Caucasus, also known as Caucasia, which is between the Black and Caspian oceans. The assertion, which could not be independently corroborated, comes amid reports that Putin, 69, had surgery to drain fluid from his belly as his health allegedly deteriorated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin survived assassination attempt two months ago: Ukraine military official

Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Prime minister of Iraq, says that he has identified the perpetrators of the failed assassination attempt on his residence in the capital Baghdad.&nbsp;

"We will pursue those who committed the crime. We know them well, and we will reveal their identities," said a statement by the prime minister's media office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/act-of-terrorism-says-us-after-iraq-prime-minister-escapes-drone-attack-427472">Act of terrorism, says US after Iraq Prime Minister escapes drone attack</a>

Al-Kadhimi said the perpetrators are the same who killed Nibras Farman, an Iraqi National Intelligence Service (INIS) officer. Without giving any further details he added that the responsible parties will be brought to justice.

PM Al-Kadhimi was unharmed by the armed drone assassination attempt. As a result of the incident, tensions have risen in Iraq just weeks after the disputed general elections organized by Iran-backed militias.

A spokesperson for the interior ministry said three drones were used in the attack, including two that were shot down by security forces and a third that hit the residence.

On Sunday, a&nbsp;video posted by his office showed&nbsp;Kadhimi chairing a meeting with top security commanders to discuss the drone attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-prime-minister-escapes-assassination-attempt-after-explosive-laden-drone-targets-his-house-427315">Iraqi Prime Minister escapes assassination attempt</a>

"The cowardly terrorist attack that targeted the home of the prime minister last night with the aim of assassinating him, is a serious targeting of the Iraqi state by criminal armed groups," his office said in a statement after the meeting.

In the parliamentary elections on October 10, the Sadrist Movement, led by prominent Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, took the lead with more than 70 seats, while the al-Fatah (Conquest) Coalition garnered 17 seats compared with 47 in the 2018 elections.

Parties disputing the results said the elections had been fabricated and that they would not accept the results.

Watch |&nbsp;Drone attack targets Iraq PM, US condemns the 'act of terrorism'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-attack-targets-iraq-pm-us-condemns-the-act-of-terrorism-427375/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission is still considering the appeals and complaints submitted by the political parties, supporters of the parties rejecting the election results took to the streets of many Iraqi cities, including the capital Baghdad.

On Friday, protests escalated into a clash with the security forces, which resulted in two protesters being killed and dozens of security personnel and protesters wounded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Prime minister of Iraq, says that he has identified the perpetrators of the failed assassination attempt on his residence in the capital Baghdad.

Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Prime minister of Iraq, says that he has identified the perpetrators of the failed assassination attempt on his residence in the capital Baghdad. "We will pursue those who committed the crime. We know them well, and we will reveal their identities," said a statement by the prime minister's media office. Also read | Act of terrorism, says US after Iraq Prime Minister escapes drone attack Al-Kadhimi said the perpetrators are the same who killed Nibras Farman, an Iraqi National Intelligence Service (INIS) officer. Without giving any further details he added that the responsible parties will be brought to justice. PM Al-Kadhimi was unharmed by the armed drone assassination attempt. As a result of the incident, tensions have risen in Iraq just weeks after the disputed general elections organized by Iran-backed militias. A spokesperson for the interior ministry said three drones were used in the attack, including two that were shot down by security forces and a third that hit the residence. On Sunday, a video posted by his office showed Kadhimi chairing a meeting with top security commanders to discuss the drone attack. Also read | Iraqi Prime Minister escapes assassination attempt "The cowardly terrorist attack that targeted the home of the prime minister last night with the aim of assassinating him, is a serious targeting of the Iraqi state by criminal armed groups," his office said in a statement after the meeting. In the parliamentary elections on October 10, the Sadrist Movement, led by prominent Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, took the lead with more than 70 seats, while the al-Fatah (Conquest) Coalition garnered 17 seats compared with 47 in the 2018 elections. Parties disputing the results said the elections had been fabricated and that they would not accept the results. Watch | Drone attack targets Iraq PM, US condemns the 'act of terrorism' While the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission is still considering the appeals and complaints submitted by the political parties, supporters of the parties rejecting the election results took to the streets of many Iraqi cities, including the capital Baghdad. On Friday, protests escalated into a clash with the security forces, which resulted in two protesters being killed and dozens of security personnel and protesters wounded. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraqi PM says have identified perpetrators of drone assassination attempt

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi escaped an assassination attempt on him in Baghdad after an explosive-laden drone targeted his residence on Sunday.

Iraq: Gunfire after drone attack in Baghdad, PM escapes an assassination attempt

A man accused of attempting to stab Mali's interim President Assimi Goita last week has died in hospital while in the custody of security services, the government said in a statement on Sunday. 
 
Goita, a special forces colonel who orchestrated two coups in the last year, escaped unharmed after the assailant tried to stab him during prayers at a mosque in the capital Bamako on Tuesday. 
 
Security agents threw a man into the back of a military pickup truck, video obtained by Reuters showed, as Goita was ringed by bodyguards. 
 
"During the investigations ... his state of health deteriorated," the statement said. He was taken to hospital, where he died, it said. 
 
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of death. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjMvpCs-_HxAhVMxzgGHRfdC9AQFjACegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1nhaEZssg7u5b1xjLIfoEb" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269" target="_blank">Explainer | What's happening in&nbsp;Mali&nbsp;right now?</a> 
 
Mali, the theatre of French-supported operations against al Qaeda and Islamic State-linked insurgents for a decade, was thrown into political turmoil after a military junta led by Goita toppled President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August 2020. 
 
Goita served as vice-president to transitional leader Bah Ndaw until the latter`s ouster in May.

A man accused of attempting to stab Mali's interim President Assimi Goita last week has died in hospital while in the custody of security services, the government said in a statement on Sunday.

A man accused of attempting to stab Mali's interim President Assimi Goita last week has died in hospital while in the custody of security services, the government said in a statement on Sunday. Goita, a special forces colonel who orchestrated two coups in the last year, escaped unharmed after the assailant tried to stab him during prayers at a mosque in the capital Bamako on Tuesday. Security agents threw a man into the back of a military pickup truck, video obtained by Reuters showed, as Goita was ringed by bodyguards. "During the investigations ... his state of health deteriorated," the statement said. He was taken to hospital, where he died, it said. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of death. Also read | Explainer | What's happening in Mali right now? Mali, the theatre of French-supported operations against al Qaeda and Islamic State-linked insurgents for a decade, was thrown into political turmoil after a military junta led by Goita toppled President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August 2020. Goita served as vice-president to transitional leader Bah Ndaw until the latter`s ouster in May.

Man accused of attempted assassination of Mali president dies in custody

Mali’s interim leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, has assured that he is well after he survived an assassination attempt on Tuesday.

Goita was offering prayers at the Grand Mosque in the capital city, Bamako, on the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha. After his prayers ended, he was attacked by two assailants, one of whom was wielding a knife.

He was quickly rushed away from the scene of the crime by his security team. While an AFP journalist reported seeing blood on the scene, it is still not clear who was injured.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-chinese-two-mauritanians-kidnapped-in-mali-398760" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/three-chinese-two-mauritanians-kidnapped-in-mali-398760&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjMvpCs-_HxAhVMxzgGHRfdC9AQFjAAegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3AJXKD6iG5vIrvTYCUt658" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-chinese-two-mauritanians-kidnapped-in-mali-398760" target="_blank">Three Chinese, two Mauritanians kidnapped in&nbsp;Mali</a>

However, the interim leader has claimed that he doing very well. "That's part of being a leader, there are always malcontents," Goita said. "There are people who at any time may want to try things to cause instability."

The President’s office also issued a statement saying that Goita is "safe and sound"&nbsp;after surviving the assassination attempt.

"Attempted stabbing attack against the President of the Transition, Colonel Assimi GOITA at the great mosque of Bamako. The attacker was immediately subdued by close security," President's office tweeted. "Investigations are ongoing."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjMvpCs-_HxAhVMxzgGHRfdC9AQFjACegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1nhaEZssg7u5b1xjLIfoEb" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269" target="_blank">Explainer | What's happening in&nbsp;Mali&nbsp;right now?</a>

Religious Affairs Minister Mamadou Kone has also confirmed that a man "tried to kill the president with a knife"&nbsp;but was caught by the police officers. Mosque director, Latus Toure, has claimed that while the attack was directed towards the President, it was someone else who was injured.

A police officer has revealed, on condition of anonymity, that the officials have nabbed two people in connection to the arrest. However, the President and Prime Minister referred to only one attacker in their statements.

Mali’s interim leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, has assured that he is well after he survived an assassination attempt on Tuesday. Goita was offering prayers at the Grand Mosque in the capital city, Bamako, on the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha.

Mali’s interim leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, has assured that he is well after he survived an assassination attempt on Tuesday. Goita was offering prayers at the Grand Mosque in the capital city, Bamako, on the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha. After his prayers ended, he was attacked by two assailants, one of whom was wielding a knife. He was quickly rushed away from the scene of the crime by his security team. While an AFP journalist reported seeing blood on the scene, it is still not clear who was injured. Also read | Three Chinese, two Mauritanians kidnapped in Mali However, the interim leader has claimed that he doing very well. "That's part of being a leader, there are always malcontents," Goita said. "There are people who at any time may want to try things to cause instability." The President’s office also issued a statement saying that Goita is "safe and sound" after surviving the assassination attempt. "Attempted stabbing attack against the President of the Transition, Colonel Assimi GOITA at the great mosque of Bamako. The attacker was immediately subdued by close security," President's office tweeted. "Investigations are ongoing." Also read | Explainer | What's happening in Mali right now? Religious Affairs Minister Mamadou Kone has also confirmed that a man "tried to kill the president with a knife" but was caught by the police officers. Mosque director, Latus Toure, has claimed that while the attack was directed towards the President, it was someone else who was injured. A police officer has revealed, on condition of anonymity, that the officials have nabbed two people in connection to the arrest. However, the President and Prime Minister referred to only one attacker in their statements.

'Doing very well': Mali's interim leader survives assassination attempt

The Interior Minister of Libya, Fathi Bashagha, successfully survived an assassination attempt on Sunday near the capital city of Tripoli.

Bashagha's convoy "was fired on from an armoured car while he was on the highway" near Tripoli.

His convoy had returned the fire leading to the arrest of two of the assailants. A third assailant was identified as Radwan al-Hangari, who later died in the hospital, as per sources quoted by news agency AFP.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-erik-prince-violated-libya-arms-embargo-un-364989" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-erik-prince-violated-libya-arms-embargo-un-364989&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwishcWCwPzuAhUBg-YKHRf2C1cQFjACegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw32JafG13_Fn6igrgq25ET_" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-ally-erik-prince-violated-libya-arms-embargo-un-364989" target="_blank">Trump's ally, Erik Prince, violated&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;arms embargo: UN</a>

It is being assumed that the three assailants hailed from Zawiya, 50 kilometres (30 miles) west of Tripoli.

The news agency AFP quoted one of their own reporters who heard an intense exchange of gunfire around 3 pm (1300 GMT) on the coastal road near Janzur on the eastern edges of Tripoli.

The road was later closed for investigation for nearly an hour by security forces.

After the incident, the interior ministry has assured everyone that the minister is safe and unharmed. In a statement, the ministry claimed that he was targeted in an "assassination attempt as he returned from his residence in Janzur".&nbsp;

The attackers used an armoured Toyota truck which was fitted with a machine gun.&nbsp;

As of now, only a security guard has been reported as injured. The militants have been arrested and are being questioned, as per sources.

The Interior Minister of Libya, Fathi Bashagha, successfully survived an assassination attempt on Sunday near the capital city of Tripoli. Bashagha's convoy "was fired on from an armoured car while he was on the highway" near Tripoli.

The Interior Minister of Libya, Fathi Bashagha, successfully survived an assassination attempt on Sunday near the capital city of Tripoli. Bashagha's convoy "was fired on from an armoured car while he was on the highway" near Tripoli. His convoy had returned the fire leading to the arrest of two of the assailants. A third assailant was identified as Radwan al-Hangari, who later died in the hospital, as per sources quoted by news agency AFP. Also read| Trump's ally, Erik Prince, violated Libya arms embargo: UN It is being assumed that the three assailants hailed from Zawiya, 50 kilometres (30 miles) west of Tripoli. The news agency AFP quoted one of their own reporters who heard an intense exchange of gunfire around 3 pm (1300 GMT) on the coastal road near Janzur on the eastern edges of Tripoli. The road was later closed for investigation for nearly an hour by security forces. After the incident, the interior ministry has assured everyone that the minister is safe and unharmed. In a statement, the ministry claimed that he was targeted in an "assassination attempt as he returned from his residence in Janzur". The attackers used an armoured Toyota truck which was fitted with a machine gun. As of now, only a security guard has been reported as injured. The militants have been arrested and are being questioned, as per sources.

Libya's interior minister survives assassination attempt

The former head of the US Central Intelligence Agency labelled the assassination of a top Iranian nuclear scientist Friday a "criminal" act that risks inflaming conflict in the region.

John Brennan said he did not know who was to blame for the murder of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, as Tehran pointed its finger at Israel.

"This was a criminal act &amp; highly reckless. It risks lethal retaliation &amp; a new round of regional conflict," Brennan said in a series of tweets.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This was a criminal act &amp; highly reckless. It risks lethal retaliation &amp; a new round of regional conflict. 
Iranian leaders would be wise to wait for the return of responsible American leadership on the global stage &amp; to resist the urge to respond against perceived culprits. <a href="https://t.co/0uZhyBTM3S">https://t.co/0uZhyBTM3S</a>
— John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnBrennan/status/1332400792620462082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I do not know whether a foreign government authorized or carried out the murder of Fakhrizadeh," he said.

"Such an act of state-sponsored terrorism would be a flagrant violation of international law &amp; encourage more governments to carry out lethal attacks against foreign officials."

Brennan noted that Fakhrizadeh was not a designated terrorist nor a member of Al Qaeda or the Islamic State group, designated terror groups which would be legal targets.

A strong critic of President Donald Trump, Brennan urged Tehran to "resist the urge" to retaliate and "wait for the return of responsible American leadership on the global stage," a reference to November 3 election winner Joe Biden, who will replace Trump on January 20.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-top-nuclear-scientist-mohsen-fakhrizadeh-assassinated-345915">Iran's top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh assassinated</a>

Brennan was director of the CIA from 2013 to 2017, under the administration of President Barack Obama and then-vice president Biden.

Brennan did not take part in Biden's election campaign and has not appeared to be involved in his preparations for taking office on January 20.

But early this week Biden named Brennan's former deputy director at the CIA, Avril Haines, as his director of national intelligence.

The former head of the US Central Intelligence Agency labelled the assassination of a top Iranian nuclear scientist Friday a "criminal" act that risks inflaming conflict in the region.

The former head of the US Central Intelligence Agency labelled the assassination of a top Iranian nuclear scientist Friday a "criminal" act that risks inflaming conflict in the region. John Brennan said he did not know who was to blame for the murder of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, as Tehran pointed its finger at Israel. "This was a criminal act & highly reckless. It risks lethal retaliation & a new round of regional conflict," Brennan said in a series of tweets. This was a criminal act & highly reckless. It risks lethal retaliation & a new round of regional conflict. Iranian leaders would be wise to wait for the return of responsible American leadership on the global stage & to resist the urge to respond against perceived culprits. https://t.co/0uZhyBTM3S — John O. Brennan (@JohnBrennan) November 27, 2020 × "I do not know whether a foreign government authorized or carried out the murder of Fakhrizadeh," he said. "Such an act of state-sponsored terrorism would be a flagrant violation of international law & encourage more governments to carry out lethal attacks against foreign officials." Brennan noted that Fakhrizadeh was not a designated terrorist nor a member of Al Qaeda or the Islamic State group, designated terror groups which would be legal targets. A strong critic of President Donald Trump, Brennan urged Tehran to "resist the urge" to retaliate and "wait for the return of responsible American leadership on the global stage," a reference to November 3 election winner Joe Biden, who will replace Trump on January 20. Also read | Iran's top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh assassinated Brennan was director of the CIA from 2013 to 2017, under the administration of President Barack Obama and then-vice president Biden. Brennan did not take part in Biden's election campaign and has not appeared to be involved in his preparations for taking office on January 20. But early this week Biden named Brennan's former deputy director at the CIA, Avril Haines, as his director of national intelligence.

Ex-CIA chief condemns 'criminal' assassination of Iranian

Venezuela's socialist government said Wednesday it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defence minister in his place.

Maduro warned that he would be "ruthless in a revolutionary counter-offensive against an attempted fascist coup -- ruthless!"

In a speech broadcast nationwide on radio and television, an agitated Maduro denounced a "fascist attempt to assassinate me" -- and lashed out at Colombian President Ivan Duque saying his "complicity" was "evident."

Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez earlier said the alleged coup involved active duty and retired military officers, and was to have been executed between Sunday and Monday this past weekend.

"We were in all the meetings to plan the coup d'Etat. We were in all the conferences," he said, suggesting informers had infiltrated the alleged plotters -- at least six of whom had been detained.

In his televised speech, Rodriguez also accused opposition leader Juan Guaido of planning "a bloodbath."

Guaido for his part dismissed the coup claims as fiction, saying the media had "lost count" of how many times the same accusations had been repeated.

Recognized by the United States and more than 50 countries as the country's interim president, Guaido said he would continue to call on the armed forces to abandon Maduro.&nbsp;

Moles among the plotters?&nbsp; 
Rodriguez accused Colombia's Duque of being closely involved in the alleged plot, and implicated Chilean President Sebastian Pinera and US National Security Advisor John Bolton.

Without referring directly to the charge, Colombia's foreign minister, Carlos Holmes Trujillo, said his country would "continue to act through political and diplomatic means" in Venezuela.

Venezuela's socialist government said Wednesday it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defence minister in his place.

Venezuela's socialist government said Wednesday it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defence minister in his place. Maduro warned that he would be "ruthless in a revolutionary counter-offensive against an attempted fascist coup -- ruthless!" In a speech broadcast nationwide on radio and television, an agitated Maduro denounced a "fascist attempt to assassinate me" -- and lashed out at Colombian President Ivan Duque saying his "complicity" was "evident." Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez earlier said the alleged coup involved active duty and retired military officers, and was to have been executed between Sunday and Monday this past weekend. "We were in all the meetings to plan the coup d'Etat. We were in all the conferences," he said, suggesting informers had infiltrated the alleged plotters -- at least six of whom had been detained. In his televised speech, Rodriguez also accused opposition leader Juan Guaido of planning "a bloodbath." Guaido for his part dismissed the coup claims as fiction, saying the media had "lost count" of how many times the same accusations had been repeated. Recognized by the United States and more than 50 countries as the country's interim president, Guaido said he would continue to call on the armed forces to abandon Maduro. Moles among the plotters? Rodriguez accused Colombia's Duque of being closely involved in the alleged plot, and implicated Chilean President Sebastian Pinera and US National Security Advisor John Bolton. Without referring directly to the charge, Colombia's foreign minister, Carlos Holmes Trujillo, said his country would "continue to act through political and diplomatic means" in Venezuela.

Venezuela says it thwarted plot to assassinate President Maduro

Britain will hold new emergency talks today into the brazen nerve agent poisoning of a Russian former double agent on its soil, after the US and NATO backed London in implicating Moscow in the assassination attempt.

As diplomatic tensions soar, Russia has denied accusations of its involvement in the attack on Sergei Skripal and his daughter in southwest England on March 4.

British Prime Minister Theresa May told parliament it was &quot;highly likely&quot; Moscow was behind the poisoning, giving Russia until the end of Tuesday to answer the accusations, in comments that have stoked speculation Britain could call on its allies to mount a joint response.

Both the United States and NATO issued statements in support of London, as concern mounts over the use of what May described as a military-grade nerve agent developed by Russia.

Skripal, 66, and his daughter Yulia, 33, remain in a critical condition in hospital after being found unconscious on a bench outside a shopping centre in Salisbury.

Emergency workers in biohazard suits have been deployed in the normally sleepy city, while some 500 people who may have come into minimal contact with the nerve agent were urged to wash clothes and belongings as a precaution.

May told British lawmakers that Moscow had previously used the group of nerve agents, known as Novichok, had a history of state-sponsored assassinations and viewed defectors such as Skripal as legitimate targets. 
&quot;The government has concluded that it is highly likely that Russia was responsible for the act against Sergei and Yulia Skripal,&quot; she said.

The prime minister added Britain had given Moscow until the end of Tuesday to disclose details of its development of the Novichok nerve agents programme to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

If there was &quot;no credible response&quot; it will conclude it was &quot;an unlawful use of force by the Russian State against the UK&quot;, she warned, and pledged to outline a &quot;full range of measures&quot; in response on Wednesday.

The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported on Tuesday that Britain was consulting allies in NATO about possibly invoking its Article 5 principle of common defence.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the incident was &quot;of great concern&quot; to the alliance.

&quot;NATO is in touch with the UK authorities on this issue,&quot; he added in a statement issued by his office Monday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin brushed aside questions about Moscow&#39;s involvement in the attack in Britain, telling the BBC: &quot;First get to the bottom of it there and then we will discuss this.&quot;

Yesterday, Moscow rejected May&#39;s assertions, saying it was &quot;a circus show&quot; and an attempt to undermine trust ahead of its hosting of this summer&#39;s football World Cup.

The prime minister&#39;s statement was part of &quot;another information and political campaign based on provocation,&quot; said Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova in comments carried by news agencies.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron &quot;offered his solidarity with the UK&quot; in a phone call with May.

&quot;They discussed the wide pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour and agreed that it would be important to continue to act in concert with allies to address it,&quot; Downing Street said.

Britain&#39;s home secretary Amber Rudd will chair a meeting of the government&#39;s emergency Cobra committee at 11:30 am (local time) today for an update on the investigation, the Home Office said.

Skripal, an ex-military intelligence officer who was jailed for selling Russian secrets to London, moved to Britain in a spy swap in 2010, settling in Salisbury.

Police are investigating the attack against him with the assistance of Britain&#39;s armed forces and its military research laboratory at Porton Down.

Pharmacology experts said Novichok, a broad category of more than 100 nerve agents developed by Russia during the late stages of the Cold War, was &quot;more dangerous and sophisticated&quot; than sarin or VX.

&quot;It causes a slowing of the heart and restriction of the airways, leading to death by asphyxiation,&quot; said Gary Stephens, a professor at Britain&#39;s University of Reading.

Britain had voiced its concerns about Russia still having such biological weapons during a 2008 meeting in Paris of countries to discuss such threats, according to WikiLeaks cables reposted on Twitter Monday.

The BBC reported that investigators now believe the nerve agent may have been deployed in powder form through the ventilation system of Skripal&#39;s car.

Other reports in the British media hinted at growing pressure on May for England to boycott this summer&#39;s World Cup in Russia.

&quot;How can we go to Putin&#39;s World Cup now&quot; read the headline of the Daily Mail.

US and NATO backed London in implicating Moscow in the assassination attempt

Britain will hold new emergency talks today into the brazen nerve agent poisoning of a Russian former double agent on its soil, after the US and NATO backed London in implicating Moscow in the assassination attempt. As diplomatic tensions soar, Russia has denied accusations of its involvement in the attack on Sergei Skripal and his daughter in southwest England on March 4. British Prime Minister Theresa May told parliament it was "highly likely" Moscow was behind the poisoning, giving Russia until the end of Tuesday to answer the accusations, in comments that have stoked speculation Britain could call on its allies to mount a joint response. Both the United States and NATO issued statements in support of London, as concern mounts over the use of what May described as a military-grade nerve agent developed by Russia. Skripal, 66, and his daughter Yulia, 33, remain in a critical condition in hospital after being found unconscious on a bench outside a shopping centre in Salisbury. Emergency workers in biohazard suits have been deployed in the normally sleepy city, while some 500 people who may have come into minimal contact with the nerve agent were urged to wash clothes and belongings as a precaution. May told British lawmakers that Moscow had previously used the group of nerve agents, known as Novichok, had a history of state-sponsored assassinations and viewed defectors such as Skripal as legitimate targets. "The government has concluded that it is highly likely that Russia was responsible for the act against Sergei and Yulia Skripal," she said. The prime minister added Britain had given Moscow until the end of Tuesday to disclose details of its development of the Novichok nerve agents programme to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. If there was "no credible response" it will conclude it was "an unlawful use of force by the Russian State against the UK", she warned, and pledged to outline a "full range of measures" in response on Wednesday. The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported on Tuesday that Britain was consulting allies in NATO about possibly invoking its Article 5 principle of common defence. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the incident was "of great concern" to the alliance. "NATO is in touch with the UK authorities on this issue," he added in a statement issued by his office Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin brushed aside questions about Moscow's involvement in the attack in Britain, telling the BBC: "First get to the bottom of it there and then we will discuss this." Yesterday, Moscow rejected May's assertions, saying it was "a circus show" and an attempt to undermine trust ahead of its hosting of this summer's football World Cup. The prime minister's statement was part of "another information and political campaign based on provocation," said Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova in comments carried by news agencies. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron "offered his solidarity with the UK" in a phone call with May. "They discussed the wide pattern of aggressive Russian behaviour and agreed that it would be important to continue to act in concert with allies to address it," Downing Street said. Britain's home secretary Amber Rudd will chair a meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee at 11:30 am (local time) today for an update on the investigation, the Home Office said. Skripal, an ex-military intelligence officer who was jailed for selling Russian secrets to London, moved to Britain in a spy swap in 2010, settling in Salisbury. Police are investigating the attack against him with the assistance of Britain's armed forces and its military research laboratory at Porton Down. Pharmacology experts said Novichok, a broad category of more than 100 nerve agents developed by Russia during the late stages of the Cold War, was "more dangerous and sophisticated" than sarin or VX. "It causes a slowing of the heart and restriction of the airways, leading to death by asphyxiation," said Gary Stephens, a professor at Britain's University of Reading. Britain had voiced its concerns about Russia still having such biological weapons during a 2008 meeting in Paris of countries to discuss such threats, according to WikiLeaks cables reposted on Twitter Monday. The BBC reported that investigators now believe the nerve agent may have been deployed in powder form through the ventilation system of Skripal's car. Other reports in the British media hinted at growing pressure on May for England to boycott this summer's World Cup in Russia. "How can we go to Putin's World Cup now" read the headline of the Daily Mail.

UK, allies point finger at Russia in ex-spy poisoning

John Hinckley Jr., who wounded former US president Ronald Reagan and three other people in a 1981 assassination attempt, should be freed after 35 years and released to live with his mother, a federal judge ruled yesterday. 
 
US district judge Paul Friedman said Hinckley no longer posed a danger to himself or others and could be released from a government psychiatric hospital in Washington. 
 
Hinckley, 61, &quot;is permitted to reside full-time in Williamsburg, Virginia, on convalescent leave, which shall begin no sooner than Aug. 5, 2016,&quot; Friedman said in a 14-page order. His mother lives in Williamsburg, about 210 kilometre south of Washington. 
 
The order includes a requirement that Hinckley meet with his psychiatrist in Washington at least once a month and notify the Secret Service when he travels for the appointment. 
 
A jury found Hinckley not guilty by reason of insanity for the attack on Reagan, which also badly wounded presidential press secretary James Brady. Hinckley carried out the attack in a bid to impress actress Jodie Foster, with whom he was obsessed. 
 
(AFP)

Hinckley will live with his mother after his release in August and be required to meet with his psychiatrist at least once a month

John Hinckley Jr., who wounded former US president Ronald Reagan and three other people in a 1981 assassination attempt, should be freed after 35 years and released to live with his mother, a federal judge ruled yesterday. US district judge Paul Friedman said Hinckley no longer posed a danger to himself or others and could be released from a government psychiatric hospital in Washington. Hinckley, 61, "is permitted to reside full-time in Williamsburg, Virginia, on convalescent leave, which shall begin no sooner than Aug. 5, 2016," Friedman said in a 14-page order. His mother lives in Williamsburg, about 210 kilometre south of Washington. The order includes a requirement that Hinckley meet with his psychiatrist in Washington at least once a month and notify the Secret Service when he travels for the appointment. A jury found Hinckley not guilty by reason of insanity for the attack on Reagan, which also badly wounded presidential press secretary James Brady. Hinckley carried out the attack in a bid to impress actress Jodie Foster, with whom he was obsessed. (AFP)

Judge orders former US president Reagan's attacker to be released

assassination-attempt

Assassination Attempt, News on Assassination Attempt, stories on Assassination Attempt, articles on Assassination Attempt, Assassination Attempt stories at Wion, Assassination Attempt news, Assassination Attempt latest news