India anxious for status quo in Bangladesh elections as China holds ‘advantageous position’ regardless of outcome. Bangladesh is seen as India’s only reliable strategic partner in South Asia and as such, New Delhi wants PM Sheikh Hasina to retain power. China is unlikely to be affected by any electoral outcome in Bangladesh as it seeks to expand its sway in Dhaka, an analyst say.

What India has to gain & lose if Sheikh Hasina retains power in Bangladesh

<p>Three Chinese balloons flew across Taiwan island and near an air base on Tuesday (Jan 2), said the Taiwanese defence ministry. This is the first time it has reported&nbsp;the balloons as crossing the islands. Earlier, starting last month, it&nbsp;reported citing&nbsp;a spate of such balloons in the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait.</p>

<p>China's potential to use spy balloons has become a global issue since February 2023 when a similar kind of device was shot down by the United States,&nbsp;claiming it&nbsp;to be a Chinese surveillance balloon. China had stated that the balloon was a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-begins-preparing-ground-for-potential-arrest-warrant-against-xi-jinping-heres-how-675575">Taiwan begins preparing ground for joining ICC to deter China attack, initiate potential action against Xi</a></p>

<p>Taiwan has remained on high alert for Chinese activities, both political and military, ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections which are set to be held on January 13. China claims&nbsp;the island as its own territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since last month, Taiwan's defence ministry reported several instances of Chinese balloons spotted flying over the sensitive Taiwan Strait and crossing to the north of the island before vanishing.</p>

<h2><strong>Balloon used for weather monitoring?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (Jan 3), the ministry gave its daily update regarding Chinese military activities in the past 24 hours and added that it had spotted four balloons flying over the strait - amongst which three flew across the centre of the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It stated that the three balloons flew 105 nautical miles (194 km), 160 nautical miles and 159 nautical miles, respectively, towards the southwest of Ching Chuan Kang, which is an important location for Taiwan Air Force Base. Then, the balloons disappeared at different points, stated the ministry.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | A full-blown war in South China Sea in 2024? | Taiwan enters a 12-day crucial period</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-full-blown-war-in-south-china-sea-in-2024-taiwan-enters-a-12-day-crucial-period-675691/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The ministry, when questioned if the latest balloons were for weather or other purposes, refused to comment specifically.</p>

<p>It "closely monitors and appropriately responds" to balloons and gathers information about their path for "judgement and analysis," said the ministry. In the past four years, China has increased its military activity around Chinese and Taiwan fighter jets and warships which have now been regularly operating in the strait.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Three Chinese balloons flew across Taiwan island and near an air base on Tuesday (Jan 2), said the Taiwanese defence ministry. This is the first time it has reported the balloons as crossing the islands.

Three Chinese balloons flew across Taiwan island and near an air base on Tuesday (Jan 2), said the Taiwanese defence ministry. This is the first time it has reported the balloons as crossing the islands. Earlier, starting last month, it reported citing a spate of such balloons in the Taiwan Strait. China's potential to use spy balloons has become a global issue since February 2023 when a similar kind of device was shot down by the United States, claiming it to be a Chinese surveillance balloon. China had stated that the balloon was a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally. Also read: Taiwan begins preparing ground for joining ICC to deter China attack, initiate potential action against Xi Taiwan has remained on high alert for Chinese activities, both political and military, ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections which are set to be held on January 13. China claims the island as its own territory. Since last month, Taiwan's defence ministry reported several instances of Chinese balloons spotted flying over the sensitive Taiwan Strait and crossing to the north of the island before vanishing. Balloon used for weather monitoring? On Wednesday (Jan 3), the ministry gave its daily update regarding Chinese military activities in the past 24 hours and added that it had spotted four balloons flying over the strait - amongst which three flew across the centre of the island. It stated that the three balloons flew 105 nautical miles (194 km), 160 nautical miles and 159 nautical miles, respectively, towards the southwest of Ching Chuan Kang, which is an important location for Taiwan Air Force Base. Then, the balloons disappeared at different points, stated the ministry. Watch: Gravitas | A full-blown war in South China Sea in 2024? | Taiwan enters a 12-day crucial period The ministry, when questioned if the latest balloons were for weather or other purposes, refused to comment specifically. It "closely monitors and appropriately responds" to balloons and gathers information about their path for "judgement and analysis," said the ministry. In the past four years, China has increased its military activity around Chinese and Taiwan fighter jets and warships which have now been regularly operating in the strait. (With inputs from agencies)

Three Chinese balloons fly across Taiwan island days ahead of polls

The Pakistan election body rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's nomination to run in the 2024 parliamentary elections. Khan's Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has accused authorities of stopping its candidates from participating in the February elections. Pakistan's rights body has said there is little chance of fair polls.

Will Nawaz Sharif be able to wrest back support base from Imran Khan?

Pakistan Elections 2024: Election panel faces flak ahead of polls

<p>As the global vehicle moves into 2024, the rearview mirror&nbsp;shows the trail of the year 2023. There was a '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">mini intifada</a>' near the Pakistani capital; Putin's grip of power was shaken aback by Yevgeny Prigozhin's insurrection; the Israel-Hamas war shook the semblance of stability&nbsp;in West Asia that came after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Tehran-Riyadh's resumed ties</a>; war in Ukraine, which continued to rage; Azerbaijan’s lightning offensive against Armenia over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh territory.</p>

<p>I could go on but let me not.</p>

<p>Looking ahead to the 366-day-long road of 2024, the year will keep journalists up and running and national security nerds up at night. There are elections in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the European Union, Mexico, South Africa, Indonesia, and&nbsp;yeah, I almost forgot, the United States as well. (Trump! Trump!)</p>

<p>But it's an election year for almost the entire Indian subcontinent.</p>

<p>In the last edition of The Capitals of 2023, here's a look at that upcoming sequence of events that hold significance for corridors of power across the length and breadth of South Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Dhaka, Bangladesh</h2>

<p>Bangladesh's largest opposition party has boycotted the January 7 elections, expressing concerns about alleged vote rigging. This has&nbsp;potentially paved the way for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ruling&nbsp;Awami League party's fourth consecutive term.</p>

<h2><strong>Thimpu, Bhutan</strong></h2>

<p>In a surprising turn of events, Bhutan's ruling party faced defeat in the November first-round vote, setting the stage for a runoff on January 9. Unlike its South Asian counterparts.</p>

<h2><strong>Islamabad, Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>The unprecedented crackdown on imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has pushed the scale in the favour of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party as elections approach on February 8.</p>

<h2><strong>New Delhi, India</strong></h2>

<p>India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is expected to win a third straight term in the April elections, leveraging Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity and a fragmented opposition. Unlike Islamabad and Dhaka, Modi's potential third term is expected to keep a semblance of stability in&nbsp;Delhi's significant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-in-2023-the-year-when-new-delhi-proved-sceptics-wrong-673185">foreign policy postures</a>&nbsp;in 2024 as well.</p>

<p>Other postures of consequence in the year ahead:</p>

<h2><strong>South Asia's connectivity projects</strong></h2>

<p>Despite being known as one of the world's least connected regions, South Asia is set to make strides in connectivity in 2024. Bhutan reveals plans for a cross-border rail project with India, while Bangladesh, India, and Nepal collaborate on an electricity-sharing initiative. A transnational transport project, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, gains traction, signaling a potential turning point for the region.</p>

<p>The success of these connectivity initiatives depends on factors such as security concerns, financing, and bureaucratic delays. Terrorism risks in Afghanistan and Pakistan raise caution, and continued conflict in the Gaza Strip could impact India's plans in West Asia. The ambitious India-Bhutan railroad plan faces the challenge of securing necessary financing and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles.</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi's competitive test against Beijing&nbsp;to ace Global South exam&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As India concludes its G20 presidency, it faces a new chapter in global outreach without the leadership platform. Diplomatic challenges with Western countries, arising from allegations of extrajudicial killings in 2023, may shape India's interactions with Global South countries. Beijing's influence looms large, challenging Delhi's claim to be a bridge to the global south.</p>

<h2><strong>The Moscow factor</strong></h2>

<p>Russia has emerged as a significant player in South Asia in 2024, by simultaneously deepening ties with India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. As Moscow seeks to counter Washington's increased&nbsp;engagement in the region, its influence in Nepal and potential attention to Afghanistan could reshape the regional power balance.</p>

<p>That's all for The Capitals next year. See you in 2024.&nbsp;</p>


As the global vehicle moves into 2024, the rearview mirror shows the trail of the year 2023. There was a 'mini intifada' near the Pakistani capital; Putin's grip of power was shaken aback by Yevgeny Prigozhin's insurrection; the Israel-Hamas war shook the semblance of stability in West Asia that came after Tehran-Riyadh's resumed ties; war in Ukraine, which continued to rage; Azerbaijan’s lightning offensive against Armenia over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh territory.

As the global vehicle moves into 2024, the rearview mirror shows the trail of the year 2023. There was a 'mini intifada' near the Pakistani capital; Putin's grip of power was shaken aback by Yevgeny Prigozhin's insurrection; the Israel-Hamas war shook the semblance of stability in West Asia that came after Tehran-Riyadh's resumed ties; war in Ukraine, which continued to rage; Azerbaijan’s lightning offensive against Armenia over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh territory. I could go on but let me not. Looking ahead to the 366-day-long road of 2024, the year will keep journalists up and running and national security nerds up at night. There are elections in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the European Union, Mexico, South Africa, Indonesia, and yeah, I almost forgot, the United States as well. (Trump! Trump!) But it's an election year for almost the entire Indian subcontinent. In the last edition of The Capitals of 2023, here's a look at that upcoming sequence of events that hold significance for corridors of power across the length and breadth of South Asia. Dhaka, Bangladesh Bangladesh's largest opposition party has boycotted the January 7 elections, expressing concerns about alleged vote rigging. This has potentially paved the way for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ruling Awami League party's fourth consecutive term. Thimpu, Bhutan In a surprising turn of events, Bhutan's ruling party faced defeat in the November first-round vote, setting the stage for a runoff on January 9. Unlike its South Asian counterparts. Islamabad, Pakistan The unprecedented crackdown on imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has pushed the scale in the favour of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party as elections approach on February 8. New Delhi, India India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is expected to win a third straight term in the April elections, leveraging Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity and a fragmented opposition. Unlike Islamabad and Dhaka, Modi's potential third term is expected to keep a semblance of stability in Delhi's significant foreign policy postures in 2024 as well. Other postures of consequence in the year ahead: South Asia's connectivity projects Despite being known as one of the world's least connected regions, South Asia is set to make strides in connectivity in 2024. Bhutan reveals plans for a cross-border rail project with India, while Bangladesh, India, and Nepal collaborate on an electricity-sharing initiative. A transnational transport project, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, gains traction, signaling a potential turning point for the region. The success of these connectivity initiatives depends on factors such as security concerns, financing, and bureaucratic delays. Terrorism risks in Afghanistan and Pakistan raise caution, and continued conflict in the Gaza Strip could impact India's plans in West Asia. The ambitious India-Bhutan railroad plan faces the challenge of securing necessary financing and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles. Delhi's competitive test against Beijing to ace Global South exam As India concludes its G20 presidency, it faces a new chapter in global outreach without the leadership platform. Diplomatic challenges with Western countries, arising from allegations of extrajudicial killings in 2023, may shape India's interactions with Global South countries. Beijing's influence looms large, challenging Delhi's claim to be a bridge to the global south. The Moscow factor Russia has emerged as a significant player in South Asia in 2024, by simultaneously deepening ties with India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. As Moscow seeks to counter Washington's increased engagement in the region, its influence in Nepal and potential attention to Afghanistan could reshape the regional power balance. That's all for The Capitals next year. See you in 2024.

Elections for stability or turbulence? What 2024 will bring for capitals of Indian subcontinent

With the onset of 2024 brings with it the global election year. Almost half of the world's population will be voting across continents as election season officially kicks off this year. Watch to know more.

At least 40 countries to go to polls this year, here's a list of key elections

Felix Tshisekedi declared winner of another disputed election. As Tshisekedi supporters celebrate the election results, demonstrators take to streets to protest against election results. Watch to get more insights!

Congo President Tshisekedi re-elected, supporters celebrate victory in capital

Taiwan’s election on 13 January is the first of more than 40 national elections to be held around the world in 2024.

Taiwan's elections marked by testy exchange on autonomy, independence

Taiwan set to go polls on January 13, China's pressure on Taiwan takes centre stage

<p>The year 2024 will see multiple elections worldwide- from choosing prime ministers, presidents, and their administrations, and also heads of parliaments, and international agencies. In the run-up to these elections, there have been discussions of the top contenders, their stronghold constituencies, the public's mood, and result predictions. A victory in any of these elections would change the course of global politics, trade, diplomacy, and security.</p>

<p>The most important elections to look out for are the general elections in India, South Africa, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and&nbsp;Pakistan. The presidential elections that will grab headlines in 2024 include those in the United States, Russia, Croatia, Finland, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.</p>

<p>Also in 2024, elections will be held for the European Parliament and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).</p>

<p><strong>Here's a look at the most important elections:</strong></p>

<h3><strong>1) Lok Sabha election: India</strong></h3>

<p>The general election in India is expected to be held between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha- Parliament's lower house. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha will end on June 16. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive victory in the general elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-modi-well-for-lok-sabha-elections-heres-what-it-means-for-india-russia-ties-674323">Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties</a></strong></p>

<p>The right-wing ruling party will be in a battle&nbsp;with the recently formed INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance)&nbsp;alliance- a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).&nbsp;Recently, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee proposed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's name as a prime ministerial candidate. The BJP and its allies have not declared a PM face yet.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>2) Presidential election: US</strong></h3>

<p>The presidential election in the US is expected to be held in November. The top contenders are current President Joe Biden and Republican veteran and former president Donald Trump. Other top candidates in the race include Republicans Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie, and&nbsp;William Asa Hutchinson; and Democrats Marianne Williamson and&nbsp;Dean Phillips. The independents include John F&nbsp;Kennedy's nephew Robert, Cornel West, and Jill Stein. Though Donald Trump is emerging as the favourable choice among Americans, the 77-year-old is facing the legal system's heat in four separate criminal cases.</p>

<h3><strong>3) General and presidential elections: Pakistan</strong></h3>

<p>Economic crisis-hit Pakistan will vote for a general election in early February, and a presidential election the next month. Top parties in the fray are the&nbsp;Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), the&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif from the PML-N, who came back to Pakistan in October after four years in exile, will contest the February election.</p>

<p>Sharif is the longest-serving PM of Pakistan, having&nbsp;served in the top post for three non-consecutive terms. He is bidding for a fourth premiership but faces the biggest challenge from his main rival and former PM Imran Khan-&nbsp;who, despite being in jail for graft, remains popular following his ouster as PM in 2022.</p>

<p>Reports have emerged that the son of UN-designated terrorist and 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-son-of-un-designated-terrorist-gearing-up-for-elections-india-slams-675045">Hafiz Saeed</a>&nbsp;</strong>will be contesting the election.</p>

<h3><strong>4) Presidential election: Russia and Ukraine</strong></h3>

<p>Russia and Ukraine, which have been fighting a war since late February 2022, will be holding their presidential election in 2024. Russian President Vladimir Putin will be running for president again, a decision allowing him&nbsp;to extend his decades-long grip on power. The presidential election in Russia will be held on March 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine is supposed to hold a presidential vote in March. However, the Volodymyr Zelensky government enacted martial law in response to the Russian offensive on Feb 24, 2022 due to whihc the country cannot hold elections. On Nov 3, Ukrainian Foreign Minister&nbsp;Dmytro Kuleba said that President Zelensky was weighing the pros and cons of the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not closing this page. The president of Ukraine is considering and weighing the different pros and cons," Foreign Minister Kuleba told Reuters, adding&nbsp;that elections would bring unprecedented challenges.</p>

<h3><strong>5) General election: Bangladesh</strong></h3>

<p>The general election in Bangladesh will be held on Jan 7.&nbsp;Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is eyeing another term with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). In 2023, the country saw&nbsp;violent protests by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Hasina and for a&nbsp;caretaker government. Many people died in the protests and thousands of opposition leaders and activists were arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-elections-2024-pm-sheikh-hasina-led-14-party-alliance-to-head-to-polls-667359">Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls</a></strong></p>

<p>The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose top leadership is either jailed or in exile, previously said that it would boycott the election&nbsp;if Hasina did not step down, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The year 2024 will see multiple elections worldwide- from choosing prime ministers, presidents, and their administrations, and also heads of parliaments, and international agencies.

The year 2024 will see multiple elections worldwide- from choosing prime ministers, presidents, and their administrations, and also heads of parliaments, and international agencies. In the run-up to these elections, there have been discussions of the top contenders, their stronghold constituencies, the public's mood, and result predictions. A victory in any of these elections would change the course of global politics, trade, diplomacy, and security. The most important elections to look out for are the general elections in India, South Africa, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The presidential elections that will grab headlines in 2024 include those in the United States, Russia, Croatia, Finland, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. Also in 2024, elections will be held for the European Parliament and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Here's a look at the most important elections: 1) Lok Sabha election: India The general election in India is expected to be held between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha- Parliament's lower house. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha will end on June 16. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive victory in the general elections. Also read: Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties The right-wing ruling party will be in a battle with the recently formed INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) alliance- a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Recently, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee proposed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's name as a prime ministerial candidate. The BJP and its allies have not declared a PM face yet. 2) Presidential election: US The presidential election in the US is expected to be held in November. The top contenders are current President Joe Biden and Republican veteran and former president Donald Trump. Other top candidates in the race include Republicans Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie, and William Asa Hutchinson; and Democrats Marianne Williamson and Dean Phillips. The independents include John F Kennedy's nephew Robert, Cornel West, and Jill Stein. Though Donald Trump is emerging as the favourable choice among Americans, the 77-year-old is facing the legal system's heat in four separate criminal cases. 3) General and presidential elections: Pakistan Economic crisis-hit Pakistan will vote for a general election in early February, and a presidential election the next month. Top parties in the fray are the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif from the PML-N, who came back to Pakistan in October after four years in exile, will contest the February election. Sharif is the longest-serving PM of Pakistan, having served in the top post for three non-consecutive terms. He is bidding for a fourth premiership but faces the biggest challenge from his main rival and former PM Imran Khan- who, despite being in jail for graft, remains popular following his ouster as PM in 2022. Reports have emerged that the son of UN-designated terrorist and 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed will be contesting the election. 4) Presidential election: Russia and Ukraine Russia and Ukraine, which have been fighting a war since late February 2022, will be holding their presidential election in 2024. Russian President Vladimir Putin will be running for president again, a decision allowing him to extend his decades-long grip on power. The presidential election in Russia will be held on March 17. Ukraine is supposed to hold a presidential vote in March. However, the Volodymyr Zelensky government enacted martial law in response to the Russian offensive on Feb 24, 2022 due to whihc the country cannot hold elections. On Nov 3, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that President Zelensky was weighing the pros and cons of the election. "We are not closing this page. The president of Ukraine is considering and weighing the different pros and cons," Foreign Minister Kuleba told Reuters, adding that elections would bring unprecedented challenges. 5) General election: Bangladesh The general election in Bangladesh will be held on Jan 7. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is eyeing another term with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). In 2023, the country saw violent protests by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Hasina and for a caretaker government. Many people died in the protests and thousands of opposition leaders and activists were arrested. Also read: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose top leadership is either jailed or in exile, previously said that it would boycott the election if Hasina did not step down, Reuters reported. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Lok Sabha election to US presidential poll: What to expect in 2024

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has refused opposition calls for a rerun of disputed elections this comes as the Congo's powerful Catholic church and its Protestant churches Observer Mission reported numerous irregularities that could undermine some results.

DRC: Opposition alleges 'irregularities' in polls

Taiwan set to go polls on January 13

DRC: Election commission denies election fraud

Maine’s top election official disqualifies Donald Trump from the state ballot in next year's u.S. Presidential primary election. Shenna bellows cites the 14th amendment's 'insurrection' clause for Trump's role in the january 6, 2021 attack on capitol hill.

Donald Trump blocked from Maine Presidential Ballot

A Bangladesh court sentenced a former air force chief and an ex-minister to prison Thursday in the latest conviction of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's political opponents ahead of elections next month. Altaf Hossain Chowdhury headed the air force until 1995 and later joined the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition to Hasina's ruling Awami League.

Crackdown on opposition continues in Bangladesh ahead of Jan 7 polls

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley was asked Wednesday by a New Hampshire voter about the reason for the Civil War, and she didn’t mention slavery in her response — leading the voter to say he was “astonished” by her omission.

Asked about US civil war, Haley leaves out mention of slavery

Hong Kong's primary opposition party has officially shut its doors. The once-prominent civic party cleared its headquarters and shuttered its doors on the 15th of December. Founded in 2006, the civic party -- nicknamed the barristers' party -- was made up of attorneys, academics and other professionals. The party promoted democratisation through political reform. But now, the party and its leaders said they are quitting active politics.

Hong Kong's civic party shuts doors | Civic party clears its headquarters

In Pics | Year Ender 2023: General, Presidential elections around the world

China's defence ministry on Thursday accused Taiwan's leadership of "hyping up" claims that Beijing is interfering in the self-ruled island's upcoming presidential election. Taipei officials have repeatedly raised concerns about election interference and misinformation, and the January 13 vote comes during an escalating pressure campaign by Beijing, which claims the island as part of its territory.

China says Taiwan election interference claims are exaggerated

<p>A textbook introduced for students in Russia&nbsp;claims that former United States President Donald Trump did not win the 2020 presidential elections due to voter fraud which was committed by the Democrats. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The images of the content in the history book - which is being reportedly studied by students in the 11th grade - are being circulated on social media platforms in recent days. A page from the book was posted by a foreign correspondent for The Times (UK), Marc Bennetts on his X account and he translated the text in&nbsp;the book which read - Trump lost the election "as a result of obvious electoral fraud by the Democratic Party."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Reverse Cargo Cult it is. The new World History textbook for high schools in Russia quietly informs kids that Donald Trump was denied presidency in 2020 as a result of "obvious falsifications" by the Democratic Party. The "reverse cargo cult" is a staple of authoritarian… <a href="https://t.co/3sztTO7C7c">pic.twitter.com/3sztTO7C7c</a></p>
— Konstantin Sonin (@k_sonin) <a href="https://twitter.com/k_sonin/status/1739572585929613421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Trump, along with his allies, has been facing criminal charges and has been accused of interfering with the 2020 election&nbsp;results in which President Joe Biden emerged victorious. Meanwhile, claims by Trump of the election being rigged&nbsp;have been widely debunked in the courts and other judicial places.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-holds-wide-ranging-talks-with-lavrov-says-india-russia-relations-reflect-geopolitical-realities-674165">Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner'</a></p>

<p>Trump has also faced criticism for complimenting Russian President Vladimir Putin even though he has condemned the invasion of Ukraine. Still, few Russian analysts have said that the Kremlin is likely to prefer Trump over Biden in 2024.</p>

<p>Professor at the University of Chicago, Konstantin Sonin, who has been writing frequently about Russian politics, talked about the claims in Russian textbooks regarding the 2020 election, on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Textbook&nbsp;makes unproven claims</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to Newsweek about the textbook, Sonin said that he didn't doubt the content's&nbsp;authenticity and that the publication of the book was announced earlier this year in a press conference by the authors of the book and Russia's Minister of Education Sergei Kravstov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another excerpt from the textbook was shared by Bennetts on X, which included Biden's photograph wearing a mask which was designed to curb the spread of respiratory illnesses.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia's defence sector booms amid gains in Ukraine war | Gravitas</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russias-defence-sector-booms-amid-gains-in-ukraine-war-gravitas-674151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>As per Bennetts, the excerpt included some unproven claims regarding President Biden. "On (masked) Biden from the same Russian school textbook 'His entire political career has been accompanied by corruption scandals. He and his family have commercial interests in Ukraine,'" wrote Bennetts.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On (masked) Biden from the same Russian school textbook "His entire political career has been accompanied by corruption scandals. He and his family have commercial interests in Ukraine." <a href="https://t.co/hTJVctaMDK">https://t.co/hTJVctaMDK</a> <a href="https://t.co/WFm9ogsgAI">pic.twitter.com/WFm9ogsgAI</a></p>
— Marc Bennetts (@marcbennetts1) <a href="https://twitter.com/marcbennetts1/status/1739732428883665242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Since the invasion of Ukraine by Putin in February 2022, Biden has been one of the strongest allies of Kyiv and has been pledging more support to the war-torn country as it tries to fight against Russia. The US president has also disparaged Putin publicly by calling the Russian leader a "pure thug" and a "murderous dictator".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A textbook introduced for students in Russia claims that former United States President Donald Trump did not win the 2020 presidential elections due to voter fraud which was committed by the Democrats.

A textbook introduced for students in Russia claims that former United States President Donald Trump did not win the 2020 presidential elections due to voter fraud which was committed by the Democrats. The images of the content in the history book - which is being reportedly studied by students in the 11th grade - are being circulated on social media platforms in recent days. A page from the book was posted by a foreign correspondent for The Times (UK), Marc Bennetts on his X account and he translated the text in the book which read - Trump lost the election "as a result of obvious electoral fraud by the Democratic Party." The Reverse Cargo Cult it is. The new World History textbook for high schools in Russia quietly informs kids that Donald Trump was denied presidency in 2020 as a result of "obvious falsifications" by the Democratic Party. The "reverse cargo cult" is a staple of authoritarian… pic.twitter.com/3sztTO7C7c — Konstantin Sonin (@k_sonin) December 26, 2023 × Trump, along with his allies, has been facing criminal charges and has been accused of interfering with the 2020 election results in which President Joe Biden emerged victorious. Meanwhile, claims by Trump of the election being rigged have been widely debunked in the courts and other judicial places. Also read: Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner' Trump has also faced criticism for complimenting Russian President Vladimir Putin even though he has condemned the invasion of Ukraine. Still, few Russian analysts have said that the Kremlin is likely to prefer Trump over Biden in 2024. Professor at the University of Chicago, Konstantin Sonin, who has been writing frequently about Russian politics, talked about the claims in Russian textbooks regarding the 2020 election, on X. Textbook makes unproven claims Speaking to Newsweek about the textbook, Sonin said that he didn't doubt the content's authenticity and that the publication of the book was announced earlier this year in a press conference by the authors of the book and Russia's Minister of Education Sergei Kravstov. Another excerpt from the textbook was shared by Bennetts on X, which included Biden's photograph wearing a mask which was designed to curb the spread of respiratory illnesses. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Russia's defence sector booms amid gains in Ukraine war | Gravitas As per Bennetts, the excerpt included some unproven claims regarding President Biden. "On (masked) Biden from the same Russian school textbook 'His entire political career has been accompanied by corruption scandals. He and his family have commercial interests in Ukraine,'" wrote Bennetts. On (masked) Biden from the same Russian school textbook "His entire political career has been accompanied by corruption scandals. He and his family have commercial interests in Ukraine." https://t.co/hTJVctaMDK pic.twitter.com/WFm9ogsgAI — Marc Bennetts (@marcbennetts1) December 26, 2023 × Since the invasion of Ukraine by Putin in February 2022, Biden has been one of the strongest allies of Kyiv and has been pledging more support to the war-torn country as it tries to fight against Russia. The US president has also disparaged Putin publicly by calling the Russian leader a "pure thug" and a "murderous dictator". (With inputs from agencies)

New textbook for Russian students claims Donald Trump lost in 2020 due to ‘rigged’ US polls

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The year 2023 saw a tremendous rise of the right-wing across the globe be it France, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands in Europe to the United States and Argentina across the Atlantic. The rise of the right especially the far-right was evident in all these regions. Stricter immigration laws, Islamophobic attitudes, hesitation for LGBTQ rights and climate change denial are some of the distinctive features of the far-right narrative.

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Jailed Russian ultranationalist Igor Girkin for 2024 presidential race. Can he beat Putin? Russia's communist party pits Nikolai Kharitonov against Putin. Kharitonov ran against Putin in 2004 & polled barely 14% votes.

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