A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in the country, Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun took responsibility for ordering soldiers to enact the law.

Kim resigned after the South Korean president attempted to implement martial law. On Wednesday, Kim released a statement, taking responsibility for deploying the military.

“All soldiers who performed their duties in relation to the emergency martial law was at the order of the minister, and all responsibilities lie within myself,” Kim said in a text message sent to a reporter, CNN reported.&nbsp;

“Martial law has been lifted and the people are recovering daily lives, but local political and security situations are not at ease,” Kim said as he promised that the ministry will take such situation “very strictly” and “stably manage” pending issues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-martial-law-from-imposition-to-yoons-u-turn-heres-how-the-turmoil-unfolded-781323">Also read:&nbsp;South Korea martial law timeline: Yoon's announcement, protests, U-turn - How events unfolded</a>

Yoon's announcement led to protests and rallies by opposition party leaders at the South Korean parliament. Following this, helicopters were seen landing on the building's roof and troops entered the assembly, seemingly in a bid to block lawmakers from getting inside.

South Korea's First Lady Kim Keon-Hee also came under the limelight after the President's move, as she has also faced several allegations and multiple controversies revolving around her.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Kim Keon Hee?</h2>

South Korean First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who is known for her high-profile lifestyle, was born in Yangpyeong, as Kim Myeong-sin. Later, she changed her name to Kim-Keon Hee in 2008.&nbsp;

Her mother, Choi Eun-sun, was acquitted of charges of running an elderly care hospital from 2013 to 2015 without a medical license. She is currently serving a one-year sentence for real estate fraud after she was convicted in 2023.&nbsp;

Kim Keon-hee has been surrounded by various controversies in the past. In 2019, there were allegations against her of&nbsp;not paying taxes. She was also under investigation for taking kickbacks for hosting art exhibitions.

In 2021, she was found to be using inaccuracies in her resume while she applied for teaching positions between 2007-2013. However, she publicly apologised later.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;South Korea Turmoil: South Korean President Abandons Martial Law Attempt

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The South Korean first lady was also caught in another controversy for alleged involvement in a 63.6 billion won stock manipulation scheme related to Deutsche Motors. She, however, was not indicted due to a lack of sufficient evidence against her.&nbsp;

She is often referred to as "Kim Keon-hee risk", which means that she can harm her husband's political reputation due to these controversies.&nbsp;

Moreover, in 2022, Korean-American pastor Choi Jae-young secretly filmed Kim, while she was accepting a 3 million won Christian Dior bag, which sparked public outrage. The "Dior bag scandal" put her in the spotlight as South Korea’s anti-graft laws prohibit public officials and their spouses from accepting gifts worth more than $750 related to their official duties.&nbsp;

There are also some accusations that Kim and President Yoon had improper influence over the ruling People Power Party to choose candidates to run for a parliamentary by-election in 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in the country, Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun took responsibility for ordering soldiers to enact the law.

A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in the country, Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun took responsibility for ordering soldiers to enact the law. Kim resigned after the South Korean president attempted to implement martial law. On Wednesday, Kim released a statement, taking responsibility for deploying the military. “All soldiers who performed their duties in relation to the emergency martial law was at the order of the minister, and all responsibilities lie within myself,” Kim said in a text message sent to a reporter, CNN reported. “Martial law has been lifted and the people are recovering daily lives, but local political and security situations are not at ease,” Kim said as he promised that the ministry will take such situation “very strictly” and “stably manage” pending issues. Also read: South Korea martial law timeline: Yoon's announcement, protests, U-turn - How events unfolded Yoon's announcement led to protests and rallies by opposition party leaders at the South Korean parliament. Following this, helicopters were seen landing on the building's roof and troops entered the assembly, seemingly in a bid to block lawmakers from getting inside. South Korea's First Lady Kim Keon-Hee also came under the limelight after the President's move, as she has also faced several allegations and multiple controversies revolving around her. Who is Kim Keon Hee? South Korean First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who is known for her high-profile lifestyle, was born in Yangpyeong, as Kim Myeong-sin. Later, she changed her name to Kim-Keon Hee in 2008. Her mother, Choi Eun-sun, was acquitted of charges of running an elderly care hospital from 2013 to 2015 without a medical license. She is currently serving a one-year sentence for real estate fraud after she was convicted in 2023. Kim Keon-hee has been surrounded by various controversies in the past. In 2019, there were allegations against her of not paying taxes. She was also under investigation for taking kickbacks for hosting art exhibitions. In 2021, she was found to be using inaccuracies in her resume while she applied for teaching positions between 2007-2013. However, she publicly apologised later. Watch | South Korea Turmoil: South Korean President Abandons Martial Law Attempt × The South Korean first lady was also caught in another controversy for alleged involvement in a 63.6 billion won stock manipulation scheme related to Deutsche Motors. She, however, was not indicted due to a lack of sufficient evidence against her. She is often referred to as "Kim Keon-hee risk", which means that she can harm her husband's political reputation due to these controversies. Moreover, in 2022, Korean-American pastor Choi Jae-young secretly filmed Kim, while she was accepting a 3 million won Christian Dior bag, which sparked public outrage. The "Dior bag scandal" put her in the spotlight as South Korea’s anti-graft laws prohibit public officials and their spouses from accepting gifts worth more than $750 related to their official duties. There are also some accusations that Kim and President Yoon had improper influence over the ruling People Power Party to choose candidates to run for a parliamentary by-election in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Kim Keon-hee? Know about South Korea's First Lady and her top controversies

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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Dec 4) abandoned his short-lived attempt to enforce martial law in the country in a series of dramatic events that rocked the Asian nation. Yoon backed down after lawmakers voted against his earlier martial law declaration and deployment of military, and thousands of common people took to the streets in protest.

In a televised address aired around 4:30 am&nbsp;(1930 GMT Tuesday), Yoon&nbsp;said: "Just a moment ago, there was a demand from the National Assembly to lift the state of emergency, and we have withdrawn the military that was deployed for martial law operations."

"We will accept the National Assembly's request and lift the martial law through the Cabinet meeting," the embattled president added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-president-declares-martial-law-to-protect-nation-from-communist-forces-781212">South Korea president declares martial law to protect nation from 'communist forces'</a>

Following his announcement, the US, Seoul's key ally, expressed "relief".

"We are relieved President Yoon has reversed course on his concerning declaration of martial law and respected the ROK National Assembly's vote to end it," said the White House in a statement, using the acronym for South Korea's official name.

<h2>Yoon's bold move unravels</h2>

Late Tuesday (Dec 3) night, Yoon invoked martial law, citing threats from North Korea and domestic "anti-state forces."&nbsp;

His announcement thrust South Korea into uncharted territory, as no such declaration had been made since the nation's transition to democracy over 40 years ago.&nbsp;

The announcement was met with immediate defiance. &nbsp;

In the early hours of Wednesday, opposition lawmakers stormed through security barricades to enter the National Assembly and unanimously voted to revoke the declaration.

South Korea's constitution requires martial law to be lifted if a parliamentary majority opposes it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/martial-law-in-south-korea-protests-launch-against-imposition-of-law-top-updates-781247">Martial law in South Korea: Will maintain law until lifted by president, says military</a>

The country's main opposition party labelled the move an "insurrection" and demanded Yoon's immediate resignation.

South Korea's largest labour union also vowed an "indefinite general strike" until the president steps down.

Even figures within Yoon's own ruling People Power Party expressed dismay, with the party's leader calling the situation "tragic" and urging accountability for all involved. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Dec 4) abandoned his short-lived attempt to enforce martial law in the country in a series of dramatic events that rocked the Asian nation.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Dec 4) abandoned his short-lived attempt to enforce martial law in the country in a series of dramatic events that rocked the Asian nation. Yoon backed down after lawmakers voted against his earlier martial law declaration and deployment of military, and thousands of common people took to the streets in protest. In a televised address aired around 4:30 am (1930 GMT Tuesday), Yoon said: "Just a moment ago, there was a demand from the National Assembly to lift the state of emergency, and we have withdrawn the military that was deployed for martial law operations." "We will accept the National Assembly's request and lift the martial law through the Cabinet meeting," the embattled president added. Also read | South Korea president declares martial law to protect nation from 'communist forces' Following his announcement, the US, Seoul's key ally, expressed "relief". "We are relieved President Yoon has reversed course on his concerning declaration of martial law and respected the ROK National Assembly's vote to end it," said the White House in a statement, using the acronym for South Korea's official name. Yoon's bold move unravels Late Tuesday (Dec 3) night, Yoon invoked martial law, citing threats from North Korea and domestic "anti-state forces." His announcement thrust South Korea into uncharted territory, as no such declaration had been made since the nation's transition to democracy over 40 years ago. The announcement was met with immediate defiance. In the early hours of Wednesday, opposition lawmakers stormed through security barricades to enter the National Assembly and unanimously voted to revoke the declaration. South Korea's constitution requires martial law to be lifted if a parliamentary majority opposes it. Also read | Martial law in South Korea: Will maintain law until lifted by president, says military The country's main opposition party labelled the move an "insurrection" and demanded Yoon's immediate resignation. South Korea's largest labour union also vowed an "indefinite general strike" until the president steps down. Even figures within Yoon's own ruling People Power Party expressed dismay, with the party's leader calling the situation "tragic" and urging accountability for all involved. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean President backtracks on martial law after lawmakers and protesters push back; US 'relieved'

Opposition parties Wednesday&nbsp;(Dec 4) submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol following his martial law announcement debacle. 
 
“We’ve submitted an impeachment motion prepared urgently,” representatives for six opposition parties including the main Democratic party said on Wednesday, The Guardian said in a report.

The opposition will disuss the date and time for voting on the impeachment motion, that could happen on or before Friday.

Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law saw troops encircle and storm the country’s parliament early Wednesday, only to withdraw later as lawmakers voted to lift it.

<h2>Yoon’s martial law fiasco</h2>

The embattled president on Tuesday night invoked emergency martial law and vowed to eliminate “anti-state” forces in an opposition-dominated parliament.

However, within six hours, the National Assembly convened and overruled the president, with all the 190 lawmakers present voting against the martial law.

The emergency was formally lifted at 4:30 am local time following a cabinet meeting.

<h2>Senior aides offer to resign</h2>

Amidst silence from Yoon, his office said on Wednesday that senior advisors and secretaries for the president had offered to step down en masse.

The opposition earlier said the imposition of the martial law was “a clear violation of the constitution.”

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“President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration was a clear violation of the constitution. It didn’t abide by any requirements to declare it,” the Democratic Party said in a statement. “His martial law declaration was originally invalid and a grave violation of the constitution. It was a grave act of rebellion and provides perfect grounds for his impeachment.”

Meanwhile, protesters were seen marching towards the presidential office in Seoul on Wednesday (December 4) and asking President Yoon Suk Yeol to step down.

<h2>Will Yoon Suk Yeol be impeached?</h2>

A two-thirds majority is required in South Korea’s 300-member parliament to impeach the president.

Opposition parties, including the main Democratic Party, occupy 192 seats. But it’s highly likely that some members from Yeol’s own party may also throw their weight behind any potential impeachment process if initiated by the opposition.

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National Assembly officials said Wednesday that at least 10 members from Yeol’s People Power Party voted in favour of rejecting the martial law, indicating that they might very well vote to remove the president from the top position.

If impeached, Yeol will immediately lose his constitutional powers and would have to rely on a court for his fate. Meanwhile, PM Han Duck-soo would be taking the charge of the government.

Under South Korean laws, the president can only declare martial law during “wartime, war-like situations or other comparable national emergency states.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Opposition parties Wednesday (Dec 4) submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol following his martial law announcement debacle. “We’ve submitted an impeachment motion prepared urgently,” representatives for six opposition parties including the main Democratic party said on Wednesday, The Guardian said in a report.

Opposition parties Wednesday (Dec 4) submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol following his martial law announcement debacle. “We’ve submitted an impeachment motion prepared urgently,” representatives for six opposition parties including the main Democratic party said on Wednesday, The Guardian said in a report. The opposition will disuss the date and time for voting on the impeachment motion, that could happen on or before Friday. Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law saw troops encircle and storm the country’s parliament early Wednesday, only to withdraw later as lawmakers voted to lift it. Yoon’s martial law fiasco The embattled president on Tuesday night invoked emergency martial law and vowed to eliminate “anti-state” forces in an opposition-dominated parliament. However, within six hours, the National Assembly convened and overruled the president, with all the 190 lawmakers present voting against the martial law. The emergency was formally lifted at 4:30 am local time following a cabinet meeting. Senior aides offer to resign Amidst silence from Yoon, his office said on Wednesday that senior advisors and secretaries for the president had offered to step down en masse. The opposition earlier said the imposition of the martial law was “a clear violation of the constitution.” Also read: South Korea president declares martial law to protect nation from `communist forces` “President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration was a clear violation of the constitution. It didn’t abide by any requirements to declare it,” the Democratic Party said in a statement. “His martial law declaration was originally invalid and a grave violation of the constitution. It was a grave act of rebellion and provides perfect grounds for his impeachment.” Meanwhile, protesters were seen marching towards the presidential office in Seoul on Wednesday (December 4) and asking President Yoon Suk Yeol to step down. Will Yoon Suk Yeol be impeached? A two-thirds majority is required in South Korea’s 300-member parliament to impeach the president. Opposition parties, including the main Democratic Party, occupy 192 seats. But it’s highly likely that some members from Yeol’s own party may also throw their weight behind any potential impeachment process if initiated by the opposition. Also read: South Korea imposes 90-day ban on deepfake political campaign videos National Assembly officials said Wednesday that at least 10 members from Yeol’s People Power Party voted in favour of rejecting the martial law, indicating that they might very well vote to remove the president from the top position. If impeached, Yeol will immediately lose his constitutional powers and would have to rely on a court for his fate. Meanwhile, PM Han Duck-soo would be taking the charge of the government. Under South Korean laws, the president can only declare martial law during “wartime, war-like situations or other comparable national emergency states.” (With inputs from agencies)

S Korean opposition moves to impeach President Yoon after his martial law fiasco

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday (Dec 4) abandoned his short-lived attempt to enforce martial law in the country. This comes after lawmakers voted against his declaration and thousands took to the streets to protest. Moving on South Korea's main opposition party has said that it would initiate impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol unless he immediately resigned and this development comes just after his short lived Declaration of Martial law overnight. Watch in for more details!

South Korean Opposition Parties Submit Bill To Impeach President

The United States (US) government has expressed "grave concern" after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday (Dec. 3). He further announced that he wants a resolution that follows the "rule of law," the Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Referring to the country by its official name, the Republic of Korea, Campbell said, "We are watching the recent developments in the ROK with&nbsp;grave&nbsp;concern," AFP reported.&nbsp;

He further added, "We have every hope and expectation that any political disputes will be resolved peacefully and by the rule of law. I do want to underscore that our alliance with the ROK is ironclad, and we stand by&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;in their time of uncertainty," AFP quoted him saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/martial-law-in-south-korea-protests-launch-against-imposition-of-law-top-updates-781247">Martial law in South Korea: Will maintain law until lifted by president, says military</a>

Yoon has been a close ally of the US and also has strong ties with US President Joe Biden. Last year, he welcomed Biden on a state visit, and South Korea even hosted a global democracy summit, a signature idea of the outgoing US administration.

<h2>'Closely monitoring'</h2>

Furthermore, the government of the United Kingdom (UK) has also said it is "closely monitoring" the situation in South Korea.

 
"That is a very fast-moving situation, and, as you would expect, we are closely monitoring developments in South Korea," Prime Minister Keir Starmer's deputy spokesperson told reporters, AFP reported.&nbsp;

He further added, "We would advise all British nationals to monitor the UK's travel advice for updates and follow the advice of local authorities."&nbsp;

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The country further warned British nationals to "follow the advice of local authorities and avoid political demonstrations". 
 
Yoon's Tuesday announcement was marked as South Korea's first declaration of martial law in more than 40 years. He defended his action, saying it was to protect the country from "threats" posed by North Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The United States (US) government has expressed "grave concern" after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday (Dec. 3). He further announced that he wants a resolution that follows the "rule of law," the Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, AFP reported.

The United States (US) government has expressed "grave concern" after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday (Dec. 3). He further announced that he wants a resolution that follows the "rule of law," the Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, AFP reported. Referring to the country by its official name, the Republic of Korea, Campbell said, "We are watching the recent developments in the ROK with grave concern," AFP reported. He further added, "We have every hope and expectation that any political disputes will be resolved peacefully and by the rule of law. I do want to underscore that our alliance with the ROK is ironclad, and we stand by Korea in their time of uncertainty," AFP quoted him saying. Also read | Martial law in South Korea: Will maintain law until lifted by president, says military Yoon has been a close ally of the US and also has strong ties with US President Joe Biden. Last year, he welcomed Biden on a state visit, and South Korea even hosted a global democracy summit, a signature idea of the outgoing US administration. 'Closely monitoring' Furthermore, the government of the United Kingdom (UK) has also said it is "closely monitoring" the situation in South Korea. "That is a very fast-moving situation, and, as you would expect, we are closely monitoring developments in South Korea," Prime Minister Keir Starmer's deputy spokesperson told reporters, AFP reported. He further added, "We would advise all British nationals to monitor the UK's travel advice for updates and follow the advice of local authorities." Also read | What is the case of Hannah Kobayashi, the 'voluntary missing' Hawaii woman? The country further warned British nationals to "follow the advice of local authorities and avoid political demonstrations". Yoon's Tuesday announcement was marked as South Korea's first declaration of martial law in more than 40 years. He defended his action, saying it was to protect the country from "threats" posed by North Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

US expresses 'grave concerns' over South Korea, UK says 'closely monitoring' situation

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in the country on Tuesday (Dec 3), vowing to eliminate “anti-state” forces. The surprising move harkened back to an era of authoritarian leaders that the country has not seen since the 1980s.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in the country on Tuesday (Dec 3), vowing to eliminate “anti-state” forces. The surprising move harkened back to an era of authoritarian leaders that the country has not seen since the 1980s. The South Korean military said that martial law would be maintained until lifted by Yoon after the Parliament passed a motion for lifting the law. The imposition of martial law was denounced by opposition parties. Political activities have been banned, and protests have been prohibited. Media is censored. Despite the restrictions, a report by the news agency AFP said that hundreds of people gathered at the parliament to protest against the imposition of the law. The parliament, with 190 of its 300 members present, passed a motion requiring the martial law to be lifted. All the 190 lawmakers present voted to lift the measure. Here's a look at the latest updates on the situation: > Hundreds of people, including opposition lawmakers, gathered outside the parliament in Seoul as the premises were being guarded by the police. > The protesters gathered at parliament as special forces tried to enter the premises. > In parliament, the motion was passed requiring for the law to be lifted. "Of the 190 present, 190 in favour, I declare that the resolution calling for the lifting of the emergency martial law has been passed," National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik said. There are 300 seats in the assembly. > Yoon declared martial law, accusing the opposition of being "anti-state forces" and saying he was acting to protect the country from "threats" posed by North Korea. > "To safeguard a liberal South Korea from the threats posed by North Korea's communist forces and to eliminate anti-state elements plundering people's freedom and happiness, I hereby declare emergency martial law," Yoon said in a live televised address to the nation. > Yoon did not give details of the North's threats, but the South remains technically at war with nuclear-armed Pyongyang. > In a statement, Martial Law Commander Park An-su said, "All political activities are banned in South Korea following the imposition of martial law on Tuesday and all media will be subject to government monitoring." > "All political activities, including those of the national assembly, local councils, political parties, and political associations, as well as assemblies and demonstrations, are strictly prohibited," the statement added. > The United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) said that they were closely monitoring the situation in South Korea. > The Chinese embassy in Seoul warned its citizens to exercise "caution." > In a statement, the embassy advised "Chinese nationals in South Korea to remain calm, monitor developments in South Korea's political situation, enhance safety awareness, limit unnecessary outings, exercise caution when expressing political opinions." (With inputs from agencies)

Martial law in South Korea: Will maintain law until lifted by president, says military

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday (Dec 3) after 44 years, accusing the opposition of anti-state activities. Following the announcement, political activities have been banned and protests have been prohibited. Moreover, media is also censored in the country now.&nbsp;

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Anjali Damania, a politician in the Indian state of Maharashtra, has suggested that Eknath Shinde might become the leader of the opposition (LoP) in Maharashtra as all eyes are set on who will be the next chief minister.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-communal-tensions-advocate-defending-detained-hindu-monk-brutally-attacked-781002">Bangladesh communal tensions: Lawyer defending detained Hindu monk ‘brutally attacked’</a>

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A spokesperson for the Hindu spiritual organisation International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as ISKCON, said Monday (Dec 2) that the lawyer of detained Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu was brutally attacked in Bangladesh. ISKCON Kolkata’s Radharamn Das said that advocate Ramen Roy, who is helping Chinmoy fight legal cases, was attacked by some people at his home and was now in critical condition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-australia-have-history-on-their-side-in-adelaide-just-like-perth-781226">BGT 2024-25: Australia have history on their side in Adelaide, just like Perth</a>

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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is almost ready for the second Test - a day-night pink-ball match in Adelaide from December 6. In last 10 years, Australia have played 10 Tests at the Adelaide Oval and won nine of them - the only time they lost was to India in 2018, in a day match though.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/laapataa-ladies-oscar-campaign-roma-director-alfonso-cuaron-to-host-screening-of-the-film-781239">Laapataa Ladies Oscar campaign: Roma director Alfonso Cuaron to host screening of the film</a>

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Aamir Khan has joined hands with Oscar-winning director Alfonso Cuaron to add heft to the Oscar campaign of his produced film&nbsp;Laapataa Ladies.&nbsp;Renamed as&nbsp;Lost Ladies&nbsp;for the international audience, the film is India's official entry for the Oscars 2025. It has been helmed by Aamir's ex-wife Kiran Rao. Both Khan and Rao are touring the UK to promote their film.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday (Dec 3) after 44 years, accusing the opposition of anti-state activities. Following the announcement, political activities have been banned and protests have been prohibited.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday (Dec 3) after 44 years, accusing the opposition of anti-state activities. Following the announcement, political activities have been banned and protests have been prohibited. Moreover, media is also censored in the country now. Meanwhile, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary-General Mark Rutte sidestepped the question about Ukraine's membership in the intergovernmental military alliance, saying that the priority right now is to strengthen Ukraine's hand by sending it more weapons. Israel Defence Minister Israel Katz warned the Lebanese government that if the Hezbollah ceasefire collapses, there will longer be an exemption for the state of Lebanon. Click on the headlines to read more Martial law in South Korea: Protests launch against imposition of law- Top updates South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in the country on Tuesday (Dec 3), vowing to eliminate “anti-state” forces. The surprising move harkened back to an era of authoritarian leaders that the country has not seen since the 1980s. Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief sidesteps talk of Kyiv's membership, says 'priority is...' North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Tuesday (Dec 3) sidestepped the question about war-torn Ukraine's membership into the intergovernmental military alliance. Israeli minister says if truce with Hezbollah fails, there'll be no exemption for state of Lebanon Israel Defence Minister Israel Katz warned the Lebanese government, saying that if the ceasefire with Hezbollah collapses, there will no longer be an exemption for Lebanon, and Israel will act strongly, reported The Times of Israel. Critics raise concern over Trump's FBI pick Kash Patel, say 'job is difficult' Days after US President-elect Donald Trump selected Kashyap "Kash" Patel for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), critics have been expressing doubts about his being qualified to lead the US government's principal law enforcement agency. What is the Hannah Kobayashi case, 'voluntary missing' Hawaii woman? A Hawaii woman named Hannah Kobayashi went missing mysteriously from the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on November 8. Now, there is a twist in the story. Georgia PM threatens to punish protesters as court rejects bid to annul vote Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote. Maharashtra CM suspense: Anjali Damania's 'Shinde will be Oppn leader' swipe as ex-CM out of hospital Anjali Damania, a politician in the Indian state of Maharashtra, has suggested that Eknath Shinde might become the leader of the opposition (LoP) in Maharashtra as all eyes are set on who will be the next chief minister. Bangladesh communal tensions: Lawyer defending detained Hindu monk ‘brutally attacked’ A spokesperson for the Hindu spiritual organisation International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as ISKCON, said Monday (Dec 2) that the lawyer of detained Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu was brutally attacked in Bangladesh. ISKCON Kolkata’s Radharamn Das said that advocate Ramen Roy, who is helping Chinmoy fight legal cases, was attacked by some people at his home and was now in critical condition. BGT 2024-25: Australia have history on their side in Adelaide, just like Perth The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is almost ready for the second Test - a day-night pink-ball match in Adelaide from December 6. In last 10 years, Australia have played 10 Tests at the Adelaide Oval and won nine of them - the only time they lost was to India in 2018, in a day match though. Laapataa Ladies Oscar campaign: Roma director Alfonso Cuaron to host screening of the film Aamir Khan has joined hands with Oscar-winning director Alfonso Cuaron to add heft to the Oscar campaign of his produced film Laapataa Ladies. Renamed as Lost Ladies for the international audience, the film is India's official entry for the Oscars 2025. It has been helmed by Aamir's ex-wife Kiran Rao. Both Khan and Rao are touring the UK to promote their film.

Top 10 world news: Martial law in South Korea; NATO chief avoids talk of Ukraine's membership, and more

Will there be a military coup in Pakistan? The Pak govt is trying to convince the Army to pressurise the judiciary. Pak's FM has warned of martial law in the country. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Will there be a military coup in Pakistan?

Pakistan's election commission recently delayed assembly polls in the politically crucial state of Punjab by over 5 months. Imran Khan's party has moved Pakistan's Supreme Court against the poll deferment. Now, the country's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has sounded the alarm over the possibility of a constitutional crisis. The ruling coalition has been seeking the formation of a full court bench on the matter. Bilawal Bhutto has warned that if a larger supreme court bench is not constituted, it could lead to a martial law or an emergency-like situation. Political infighting is common in Pakistan, where no prime minister has yet completed a full term. Pakistan's military has ensured dominance over the political elite - during periods of martial law; or as guardians of centrally controlled civilian regimes. Over the years, the military has repressed political parties and cobbled together regime-friendly alliances.

Bilawal Bhutto's big warning on 'martial law, emergency-like situation' in Pakistan

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a martial law in four annexed Ukrainian regions. But what does it mean for the war? Is Putin planning something big? Know here.

Putin declares martial law in annexed regions. What does it mean for the war?

Ukraine has significantly stepped up its counter-offensive in the eastern and the southern parts of the country. Vladimir Putin has announced martial law in the annexed regions of Ukraine.

Ukraine war: Putin imposes martial law in annexed Ukrainian regions

Foreign living Filipinos are buying books about the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to acquire knowledge about it and in order to preserve his history. His son, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. takes government following a resounding victory in the May election, hence there is a rush to buy the books which give details of the disastrous 21-year rule of his father. According to the history, it underlines that Jr’s father’s reign had human rights violations, corruption, and thievery but Jr hasn’t admitted to this or apologised, rather said he would make an attempt to rewrite history as he now is in power, CNN reported.&nbsp;

As per the human rights organisations, between the years 1965 and 1986, during the Marcos era, tens and thousands of people were jailed, tortured, and even assassinated for government criticism. Both Marcos Sr. and his wife passed away in 1989 and were found accountable for massive wrongdoing including the theft of an estimated $10 billion tax dollars.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hold-the-line-philippines-maria-ressa-fights-for-press-freedom-495654">'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria&nbsp;Ressa fights for press freedom</a>

Raissa Robels, a journalist and author of ‘Marcos Martial Law: Never Again,’ said that she received emails from readers all over the world asking her to reissue the book as a depth examination of the victims of the martial law imposed. Robels said, “The book price had nearly doubled and yet the people were buying the book by batches. They weren't just buying one or two. They were buying five or 10 at a time,” CNN reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-critics-fear-a-bleak-future-philippines-new-president-ferdinand-marcos-defends-dictator-fathers-regime-493323">As critics fear a 'bleak future,' Philippines new President Ferdinand Marcos defends dictator father's regime</a>

However, in 2020 Marcos Jr made desired to revise the textbook at the time when he was preparing for elections, which documented his parents as a corrupt and brutal regime. After coming into power, the leader asked the world to judge him by his actions and not by what his family did.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Foreign living Filipinos are buying books about the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to acquire knowledge about it and in order to preserve his history.

Foreign living Filipinos are buying books about the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to acquire knowledge about it and in order to preserve his history. His son, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. takes government following a resounding victory in the May election, hence there is a rush to buy the books which give details of the disastrous 21-year rule of his father. According to the history, it underlines that Jr’s father’s reign had human rights violations, corruption, and thievery but Jr hasn’t admitted to this or apologised, rather said he would make an attempt to rewrite history as he now is in power, CNN reported. As per the human rights organisations, between the years 1965 and 1986, during the Marcos era, tens and thousands of people were jailed, tortured, and even assassinated for government criticism. Both Marcos Sr. and his wife passed away in 1989 and were found accountable for massive wrongdoing including the theft of an estimated $10 billion tax dollars. Also read | 'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria Ressa fights for press freedom Raissa Robels, a journalist and author of ‘Marcos Martial Law: Never Again,’ said that she received emails from readers all over the world asking her to reissue the book as a depth examination of the victims of the martial law imposed. Robels said, “The book price had nearly doubled and yet the people were buying the book by batches. They weren't just buying one or two. They were buying five or 10 at a time,” CNN reported. Also read | As critics fear a 'bleak future,' Philippines new President Ferdinand Marcos defends dictator father's regime However, in 2020 Marcos Jr made desired to revise the textbook at the time when he was preparing for elections, which documented his parents as a corrupt and brutal regime. After coming into power, the leader asked the world to judge him by his actions and not by what his family did. (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.

Filipinos buying books about late Marcos dictator to preserve history

Russians are reportedly fleeing their country in the fear of martial law and conscription. Those fleeing Russia say tickets are sold out and planes are packed. Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Ukraine war: Will Russia declare martial law?

Pakistan has proposed a 'martial law' to formalise censorship of the media. It comes right after Pak journalist attacked for criticising the army & News Anchor Hamid Mir was taken off air for supporting him.

Gravitas: Pakistan seeks to formalise censorship

Martial law was declared on Monday in seven townships in Myanmar's second biggest city, Mandalay.

Under the law, people are banned from protesting or gathering in groups of more than five. Additionally, a curfew will run from 8 pm until 4 am, the general administration department said in a statement.

Tens of thousands of people joined a third day of street demonstrations in towns and cities across the country to denounce the military for its seizure of power last Monday. People have also been protesting on the streets against the arrest of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Earlier in the day, Myanmar police warned protesters to disperse or face force shortly after state television signalled impending action to stifle mass demonstrations.

In the capital Naypyitaw, three lines of police in riot gear could be seen across a road as protesters chanted anti-coup slogans and told police they should serve the people not the military.

Police placed a sign in the road saying that live ammunition could be used if demonstrators breached the third line of officers.

Calls to join protests and to back a campaign of civil disobedience have grown louder and more organised since the coup, which drew widespread international condemnation.

In Yangon, a group of saffron-robed monks, who have a history of rallying community action in the overwhelmingly Buddhist country, marched in the vanguard of protests with workers and students. They flew multicoloured Buddhist flags alongside red banners in the colour of Suu Kyi`s National league for Democracy (NLD), which won a landslide election in November.

The protests are the biggest since the "Saffron Revolution" led by monks in 2007, which led over subsequent years to the military`s gradual withdrawal from politics after decades of direct rule, a process brought to a jarring halt by the February 1 coup.

The government lifted a day-long internet ban at the weekend. The block had prompted even more anger in a country fearful of returning to the isolation and poverty before the transition to democracy began in 2011.

Suu Kyi won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for campaigning for democracy and spent nearly 15 years under house arrest as she struggled to end almost half a century of army rule.

The 75-year-old has been kept incommunicado since army chief General Min Aung Hlaing seized power in the early hours of February 1 to counter what the military said was widespread fraud in the Nov. 8 election. The election commission rejected complaints of fraud.

Suu Kyi faces charges of illegally importing six walkie-talkies and is being held in police detention until February 15. Her lawyer said he has not been allowed to see her.

The daughter of the former British colony’s independence hero Aung San, Suu Kyi remains hugely popular at home despite damage to her international reputation over the plight of the Muslim Rohingya minority.

Martial law was declared on Monday in seven townships in Myanmar's second biggest city, Mandalay. Under the law, people are banned from protesting or gathering in groups of more than five.

Martial law was declared on Monday in seven townships in Myanmar's second biggest city, Mandalay. Under the law, people are banned from protesting or gathering in groups of more than five. Additionally, a curfew will run from 8 pm until 4 am, the general administration department said in a statement. Tens of thousands of people joined a third day of street demonstrations in towns and cities across the country to denounce the military for its seizure of power last Monday. People have also been protesting on the streets against the arrest of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Earlier in the day, Myanmar police warned protesters to disperse or face force shortly after state television signalled impending action to stifle mass demonstrations. In the capital Naypyitaw, three lines of police in riot gear could be seen across a road as protesters chanted anti-coup slogans and told police they should serve the people not the military. Police placed a sign in the road saying that live ammunition could be used if demonstrators breached the third line of officers. Calls to join protests and to back a campaign of civil disobedience have grown louder and more organised since the coup, which drew widespread international condemnation. In Yangon, a group of saffron-robed monks, who have a history of rallying community action in the overwhelmingly Buddhist country, marched in the vanguard of protests with workers and students. They flew multicoloured Buddhist flags alongside red banners in the colour of Suu Kyi`s National league for Democracy (NLD), which won a landslide election in November. The protests are the biggest since the "Saffron Revolution" led by monks in 2007, which led over subsequent years to the military`s gradual withdrawal from politics after decades of direct rule, a process brought to a jarring halt by the February 1 coup. The government lifted a day-long internet ban at the weekend. The block had prompted even more anger in a country fearful of returning to the isolation and poverty before the transition to democracy began in 2011. Suu Kyi won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for campaigning for democracy and spent nearly 15 years under house arrest as she struggled to end almost half a century of army rule. The 75-year-old has been kept incommunicado since army chief General Min Aung Hlaing seized power in the early hours of February 1 to counter what the military said was widespread fraud in the Nov. 8 election. The election commission rejected complaints of fraud. Suu Kyi faces charges of illegally importing six walkie-talkies and is being held in police detention until February 15. Her lawyer said he has not been allowed to see her. The daughter of the former British colony’s independence hero Aung San, Suu Kyi remains hugely popular at home despite damage to her international reputation over the plight of the Muslim Rohingya minority.

Martial law declared in parts of Myanmar

US President Donald Trump’s former adviser and also his friend Roger Stone, has suggested that if Trump lose out to Biden in upcoming Presidential elections, then Trump should enforce his power by declaring martial law. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-commutes-longtime-adviser-roger-stones-prison-sentence-312432">Also read | Trump commutes longtime adviser Roger Stone's prison sentence</a> 
 
He also suggested to arrest Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Tim Cook of Apple, Bill and Hillary Clinton and “anybody else who can be proven to be involved in illegal activity”.

“I do not advocate preventive detention, but people who commit crimes and think they can continue to get away with it because we have two-tier justice are just wrong,” he said in an online interview.

Stone also advocated “forming an election day operation using the FBI, federal marshals and Republican state officials across the country to be prepared to file legal objections to results and if necessary to physically stand in the way of criminal activity”.

On July 11 this year, President Donald Trump commuted the sentence of his longtime friend and adviser Roger Stone, sparing him from prison after he was convicted of lying under oath to lawmakers investigating Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump’s former adviser and also his friend Roger Stone, has suggested that if Trump lose out to Biden in upcoming Presidential elections, then Trump should enforce his power by declaring martial law.

US President Donald Trump’s former adviser and also his friend Roger Stone, has suggested that if Trump lose out to Biden in upcoming Presidential elections, then Trump should enforce his power by declaring martial law. Also read | Trump commutes longtime adviser Roger Stone's prison sentence He also suggested to arrest Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Tim Cook of Apple, Bill and Hillary Clinton and “anybody else who can be proven to be involved in illegal activity”. “I do not advocate preventive detention, but people who commit crimes and think they can continue to get away with it because we have two-tier justice are just wrong,” he said in an online interview. Stone also advocated “forming an election day operation using the FBI, federal marshals and Republican state officials across the country to be prepared to file legal objections to results and if necessary to physically stand in the way of criminal activity”. On July 11 this year, President Donald Trump commuted the sentence of his longtime friend and adviser Roger Stone, sparing him from prison after he was convicted of lying under oath to lawmakers investigating Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election. (With inputs from agencies)

US election 2020: Trump ally tells him to bring martial law if he loses election; recommends jailing Clintons, Zuckerberg

&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Wednesday announced the end of a martial law in the country's border regions, which was introduced last month after Russia's seizure of three of Kiev's navy vessels in the Sea of Azov.

"Today, right now, at 2:00 pm (1200 GMT) the martial law ends," Poroshenko said during a live streamed National Security and Defence Council meeting in Kiev.

The president said he had reached the decision "based on analysis of all the components of the security situation in the country".

The move to impose martial law came after Poroshenko warned of a build-up of Russian forces near Ukraine's borders, escalating the most <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-dont-like-russia-ukraine-situation-europe-and-us-working-on-it-says-trump-179740">dangerous crisis</a> in years between the ex-Soviet neighbours.

Russian border patrol boats fired on, boarded and seized the three Ukrainian vessels, along with 24 sailors, in November off the coast of Crimea. The sailors are still being held in detention by Russian authorities.

Western governments accused Russia of acting illegally and US President Donald Trump cancelled a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires over the incident.

"The support and concrete actions of our international partners -- their pressure on the Kremlin combined with a martial law -- have stopped the worst scenario that the Russian Federation planned," Poroshenko said.

"They didn't let Putin cross the new red line," he added.

The martial law was imposed in 10 regions that adjoin either Russia's borders or areas controlled by Moscow-backed separatists, as well as along the coast of the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

Ukrainian armed forces were put on full combat readiness and replenished at the expense of the first-stage reserves.

Kiev also banned Russian men aged 16-60 from entering the country.&nbsp;

The entry was restricted for about 1,650 male citizens of Russia since November 30, the border service said Wednesday.

New sanctions

Relations between Moscow and Kiev have deteriorated since a pro-Western government came to power after the 2014 revolt against a pro-Russian leader, Moscow's annexation of the Crimea and the outbreak of war in eastern Ukraine.

The conflict pitting pro-Russian separatists against Ukrainian government forces is estimated to have claimed more than 10,000 lives.

After a maritime conflict with Moscow in the Black Sea in late November, Poroshenko accused Russia of having sharply raised its military presence on the border, with Ukraine warning of the threat of "full-scale war."&nbsp;

On Wednesday Ukrainian president announced the new sanctions against those involved in the aggression against Ukrainian ships.

Poroshenko said a draft decision on the application of sanctions was included in the agenda of the meeting.

"As we see the political support and participation of the State Duma in this process, a large number of State Duma deputies are included in the sanction list," he stated, referring to the Russian parliament.

Poroshenko also said that one of the reasons to end the martial law was the presidential election that is scheduled for March 31.

Campaigning and elections are banned under martial law, he explained.

Previously critics attacked the acting president, saying that he used the incident in the Sea of Azov and the martial law to improve his ratings.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Wednesday announced the end of a martial law in the country's border regions, which was introduced last month after Russia's seizure of three of Kiev's navy vessels in the Sea of Azov.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Wednesday announced the end of a martial law in the country's border regions, which was introduced last month after Russia's seizure of three of Kiev's navy vessels in the Sea of Azov. "Today, right now, at 2:00 pm (1200 GMT) the martial law ends," Poroshenko said during a live streamed National Security and Defence Council meeting in Kiev. The president said he had reached the decision "based on analysis of all the components of the security situation in the country". The move to impose martial law came after Poroshenko warned of a build-up of Russian forces near Ukraine's borders, escalating the most dangerous crisis in years between the ex-Soviet neighbours. Russian border patrol boats fired on, boarded and seized the three Ukrainian vessels, along with 24 sailors, in November off the coast of Crimea. The sailors are still being held in detention by Russian authorities. Western governments accused Russia of acting illegally and US President Donald Trump cancelled a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires over the incident. "The support and concrete actions of our international partners -- their pressure on the Kremlin combined with a martial law -- have stopped the worst scenario that the Russian Federation planned," Poroshenko said. "They didn't let Putin cross the new red line," he added. The martial law was imposed in 10 regions that adjoin either Russia's borders or areas controlled by Moscow-backed separatists, as well as along the coast of the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. Ukrainian armed forces were put on full combat readiness and replenished at the expense of the first-stage reserves. Kiev also banned Russian men aged 16-60 from entering the country. The entry was restricted for about 1,650 male citizens of Russia since November 30, the border service said Wednesday. New sanctions Relations between Moscow and Kiev have deteriorated since a pro-Western government came to power after the 2014 revolt against a pro-Russian leader, Moscow's annexation of the Crimea and the outbreak of war in eastern Ukraine. The conflict pitting pro-Russian separatists against Ukrainian government forces is estimated to have claimed more than 10,000 lives. After a maritime conflict with Moscow in the Black Sea in late November, Poroshenko accused Russia of having sharply raised its military presence on the border, with Ukraine warning of the threat of "full-scale war." On Wednesday Ukrainian president announced the new sanctions against those involved in the aggression against Ukrainian ships. Poroshenko said a draft decision on the application of sanctions was included in the agenda of the meeting. "As we see the political support and participation of the State Duma in this process, a large number of State Duma deputies are included in the sanction list," he stated, referring to the Russian parliament. Poroshenko also said that one of the reasons to end the martial law was the presidential election that is scheduled for March 31. Campaigning and elections are banned under martial law, he explained. Previously critics attacked the acting president, saying that he used the incident in the Sea of Azov and the martial law to improve his ratings.

Ukraine President Petro Poroshenko announces end to martial law

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday warned Ukraine against any "reckless acts" after Kiev declared martial law in response to Moscow's seizure of three of its navy vessels.

The Ukrainian parliament late Monday voted in favour of President Petro Poroshenko's request for the introduction of martial law in border areas for 30 days.

The move came after Russian forces fired on, boarded and captured three of Kiev's ships on Sunday off the coast of Crimea, sparking the most dangerous crisis between the ex-Soviet neighbours in years.

The incident was the first major confrontation at sea in the long-running conflict pitting Ukraine against Moscow and Russian-backed separatists in the country's east.

It has raised fears of a wider escalation -- in a conflict that has killed more than 10,000 people since 2014 -- and prompted international calls for restraint.

Martial law gives Ukrainian authorities the power to mobilise citizens with military experience, regulate the media and restrict public rallies in affected areas.

In a phone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Putin expressed "serious concern" over its introduction, the Kremlin said in a statement.

He said he hoped Berlin could intervene with Ukrainian authorities "to dissuade them from further reckless acts".

Moscow has accused Kiev of planning Sunday's confrontation as a provocation aimed at drumming up support for Poroshenko ahead of elections next year and convincing Western governments to impose further sanctions on Russia.

Putin said Kiev's actions were "clearly taken in view of the election campaign in Ukraine".

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Tuesday that Kiev's martial law threatened to cause an "escalation of tensions in the conflict region" in the east of the country.

Moscow has so far resisted calls to release the three ships or the 24 sailors it has detained.

Some of the sailors will face trial in Simferopol -- the main city in Russian-annexed Crimea -- on Tuesday, the peninsula's human rights ombudsman Lyudmila Lubina told AFP.

The rest are expected to face trial on Wednesday, she said, while three others were still in hospital after being wounded in the weekend clash.

Moscow accuses them of crossing illegally into Russian waters and of ignoring warnings from its border guards, with officials suggesting they could face criminal prosecution.

Sunday's incident has been playing out on Russian and Ukrainian television screens, with dramatic footage of Russian ships chasing down a Ukrainian tugboat that was trying to pass through the Kerch Strait from the Black Sea into the Sea of Azov.

Russian state television late on Monday aired footage of some of the captured sailors being questioned by Moscow's security services.

One of the sailors is heard saying "the actions of the Ukrainian armed vessels in the Kerch Strait had a provocatory character" -- parroting the version of events put forward by Russian authorities.

Ukraine's naval commander, Igor Voronchenko, said the sailors were pressured into giving false evidence.

"I know these sailors, they were always professional. What they are saying now is not true," he told Ukrainian media. "They (the Russians) could even say that we came from the sky on a spaceship."

Ukraine has accused Russian border patrol vessels of ramming the tugboat, which was accompanied by two small warships, and of firing on the Ukrainian vessels.

Western governments have rallied behind Kiev in the dispute, accusing Russia of illegally blocking access to the Sea of Azov and of taking military action without justification.

Britain, Canada, France, Germany and others expressed support for Kiev on Monday, with EU President Donald Tusk calling for Russia to return the Ukrainian sailors and ships and "refrain from further provocations".

The foreign minister of Austria, which holds the rotating EU presidency, said Tuesday that the EU will next month consider further sanctions against Moscow over the flare-up.

Pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia on Tuesday denounced the reaction as "predictably anti-Russian".

The UN Security Council met in an emergency session on the crisis on Monday, where US envoy Nikki Haley called the seizure of the ships an "outrageous violation of sovereign Ukrainian territory."

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday warned Ukraine against any "reckless acts" after Kiev declared martial law in response to Moscow's seizure of three of its navy vessels.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday warned Ukraine against any "reckless acts" after Kiev declared martial law in response to Moscow's seizure of three of its navy vessels. The Ukrainian parliament late Monday voted in favour of President Petro Poroshenko's request for the introduction of martial law in border areas for 30 days. The move came after Russian forces fired on, boarded and captured three of Kiev's ships on Sunday off the coast of Crimea, sparking the most dangerous crisis between the ex-Soviet neighbours in years. The incident was the first major confrontation at sea in the long-running conflict pitting Ukraine against Moscow and Russian-backed separatists in the country's east. It has raised fears of a wider escalation -- in a conflict that has killed more than 10,000 people since 2014 -- and prompted international calls for restraint. Martial law gives Ukrainian authorities the power to mobilise citizens with military experience, regulate the media and restrict public rallies in affected areas. In a phone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Putin expressed "serious concern" over its introduction, the Kremlin said in a statement. He said he hoped Berlin could intervene with Ukrainian authorities "to dissuade them from further reckless acts". Moscow has accused Kiev of planning Sunday's confrontation as a provocation aimed at drumming up support for Poroshenko ahead of elections next year and convincing Western governments to impose further sanctions on Russia. Putin said Kiev's actions were "clearly taken in view of the election campaign in Ukraine". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Tuesday that Kiev's martial law threatened to cause an "escalation of tensions in the conflict region" in the east of the country. Moscow has so far resisted calls to release the three ships or the 24 sailors it has detained. Some of the sailors will face trial in Simferopol -- the main city in Russian-annexed Crimea -- on Tuesday, the peninsula's human rights ombudsman Lyudmila Lubina told AFP. The rest are expected to face trial on Wednesday, she said, while three others were still in hospital after being wounded in the weekend clash. Moscow accuses them of crossing illegally into Russian waters and of ignoring warnings from its border guards, with officials suggesting they could face criminal prosecution. Sunday's incident has been playing out on Russian and Ukrainian television screens, with dramatic footage of Russian ships chasing down a Ukrainian tugboat that was trying to pass through the Kerch Strait from the Black Sea into the Sea of Azov. Russian state television late on Monday aired footage of some of the captured sailors being questioned by Moscow's security services. One of the sailors is heard saying "the actions of the Ukrainian armed vessels in the Kerch Strait had a provocatory character" -- parroting the version of events put forward by Russian authorities. Ukraine's naval commander, Igor Voronchenko, said the sailors were pressured into giving false evidence. "I know these sailors, they were always professional. What they are saying now is not true," he told Ukrainian media. "They (the Russians) could even say that we came from the sky on a spaceship." Ukraine has accused Russian border patrol vessels of ramming the tugboat, which was accompanied by two small warships, and of firing on the Ukrainian vessels. Western governments have rallied behind Kiev in the dispute, accusing Russia of illegally blocking access to the Sea of Azov and of taking military action without justification. Britain, Canada, France, Germany and others expressed support for Kiev on Monday, with EU President Donald Tusk calling for Russia to return the Ukrainian sailors and ships and "refrain from further provocations". The foreign minister of Austria, which holds the rotating EU presidency, said Tuesday that the EU will next month consider further sanctions against Moscow over the flare-up. Pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia on Tuesday denounced the reaction as "predictably anti-Russian". The UN Security Council met in an emergency session on the crisis on Monday, where US envoy Nikki Haley called the seizure of the ships an "outrageous violation of sovereign Ukrainian territory."

Putin warns against 'reckless' moves after Ukraine declares martial law

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday he will deal harshly with terrorism and that martial law on the island of Mindanao would remain in place for a year if necessary.

Duterte cut short a visit to Russia and placed the southern island of Mindanao under martial rule on Tuesday after a fierce bout of fighting erupted during a raid by security forces on a hideout of Islamic State-linked militants.

&quot;To my countrymen who have experienced martial law. It would not be any different from what President Marcos did. I&rsquo;d be harsh,&rdquo; Duterte said in an interview with his assistant communications secretary while onboard a flight back to Manila.

&quot;If it would take a year to do it then we&#39;ll do it. If it&#39;s over with a month, then I&#39;d be happy. To my countrymen, do not be too scared. I&#39;m going home. I will deal with the problem once I arrive,&quot; said Duterte, a native of Mindano.

Two soldiers and a policeman were killed and 12 people wounded amid chaos in Marawi, a predominantly Muslim city of about 200,000 people, where members of the Maute militant group took control of buildings and set fire to a school, a church and a detention facility.

The Philippines endured a decade of martial law under the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos from the early 1970s and memories of campaigns to restore democracy and protect human rights are fresh in the minds of many people.

The military said it was optimistic they could end the conflict sooner rather than later.

&quot;The intent of these security forces, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, is to conclude this rapidly so that we can restore normalcy in that area,&quot; military spokesperson Edgar Arevalo said in an interview with news channel ANC.

The purpose of Tuesday&#39;s raid was to capture Isnilon Hapilon, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf group which is notorious for piracy and for kidnapping and beheading Westerners. The U.S. State Department has offered a bounty of up to $5 million for Hapilon&#39;s arrest.

The Maute and Abu Sayyaf militant groups have pledged allegiance to Islamic State, also known as ISIS, and have proved fierce opponents for the military as Duterte seeks to crush extremists and prevent radical Islamist ideology from spreading in the Philippines.

Duterte has warned repeatedly that Mindanao, an impoverished, restive region the size of South Korea, was at risk of &quot;contamination&quot; by Islamic State fighters driven out of Iraq and Syria.

Arevalo insisted there is no ISIS in the Philippines.

&quot;This so-called group who are posing to be ISIS, they are merely courting the acclamation of ISIS which until now they haven&rsquo;t received, that&rsquo;s why they continue with their atrocities,&quot; Arevalo said.

(Reuters)

He said the martial law would remain in place for a year if necessary

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday he will deal harshly with terrorism and that martial law on the island of Mindanao would remain in place for a year if necessary. Duterte cut short a visit to Russia and placed the southern island of Mindanao under martial rule on Tuesday after a fierce bout of fighting erupted during a raid by security forces on a hideout of Islamic State-linked militants. "To my countrymen who have experienced martial law. It would not be any different from what President Marcos did. I’d be harsh,” Duterte said in an interview with his assistant communications secretary while onboard a flight back to Manila. "If it would take a year to do it then we'll do it. If it's over with a month, then I'd be happy. To my countrymen, do not be too scared. I'm going home. I will deal with the problem once I arrive," said Duterte, a native of Mindano. Two soldiers and a policeman were killed and 12 people wounded amid chaos in Marawi, a predominantly Muslim city of about 200,000 people, where members of the Maute militant group took control of buildings and set fire to a school, a church and a detention facility. The Philippines endured a decade of martial law under the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos from the early 1970s and memories of campaigns to restore democracy and protect human rights are fresh in the minds of many people. The military said it was optimistic they could end the conflict sooner rather than later. "The intent of these security forces, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, is to conclude this rapidly so that we can restore normalcy in that area," military spokesperson Edgar Arevalo said in an interview with news channel ANC. The purpose of Tuesday's raid was to capture Isnilon Hapilon, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf group which is notorious for piracy and for kidnapping and beheading Westerners. The U.S. State Department has offered a bounty of up to $5 million for Hapilon's arrest. The Maute and Abu Sayyaf militant groups have pledged allegiance to Islamic State, also known as ISIS, and have proved fierce opponents for the military as Duterte seeks to crush extremists and prevent radical Islamist ideology from spreading in the Philippines. Duterte has warned repeatedly that Mindanao, an impoverished, restive region the size of South Korea, was at risk of "contamination" by Islamic State fighters driven out of Iraq and Syria. Arevalo insisted there is no ISIS in the Philippines. "This so-called group who are posing to be ISIS, they are merely courting the acclamation of ISIS which until now they haven’t received, that’s why they continue with their atrocities," Arevalo said. (Reuters)

Duterte places Philippine island under martial law, warns militants: 'I'll be harsh'

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