Japan has approved a new defence policy. It plans to increase its defence budget to 2% of its GDP by 2027. This is to counter the threat posed by China.

WION Fineprint | Japan opts for militarisation

There has been a rise in the number of drunk people dying in Japan. It's because they have been napping on busy streets after getting drunk.

WION Fineprint | Drunk Japanese people getting run over

Nine people have been hospitalised in Australia after eating questionable spinach. The victims experienced hallucinations and elevated heart rates.

WION Fineprint | Australian spinach causing hallucinations?

A new study has found that giving children an electronic gadget to calm them down is actually detrimental to their overall development.

WION Fineprint | Smartphones harmful for a child's development?

After 2 years of Covid-19 pandemic, you know what freedom looks like? Being out in the open and travel to the places that were sitting in your wishlist all this time. WION's Ghadi Francis is on a holiday in Europe and she is going to bring to you stories from Paris, Hamburg, Amsterdam, Zurich and a lot more cities and add a little joy to your Christmas. Keep watching this space for more.

WION’s Ghadi Francis on a Europe trail

The world is warming and the effects are damning and it is an established fact that the so-called developed nations of the West have emitted The Lion's Share of greenhouse gases.

Climate Tracker: Climate change is an increasing threat to Africa

Finnish Defence Minister Antti Kaikkonen will be taking paternity leave for almost two months early next year amid his country's bid to join NATO.&nbsp;

Kaikkonen on Twitter said, "Children are only little for a moment, and I want to remember it in more than just photographs."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-victor-orban-says-hungary-will-back-finland-and-swedens-nato-bid-next-year-537234">Also read |&nbsp;PM Victor Orban says Hungary will back Finland and Sweden's NATO bid next year</a>

Centre MP Mikko Savola will take Kaikkonen's place in his absence.&nbsp;Centre party members praised his decision, AFP reported.&nbsp;

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Keskusta valitsi tänään yksimielisesti kansanedustaja Mikko Savolan hoitamaan puolustusministerin tehtävää isyysvapaani ajan. 
 
Savolalla on puolustuspolitiikasta pitkä ja laaja kokemus ja osaaminen. Hommat tulevat taatusti hyvin hoitumaan. Annan Mikolle kaiken tarvittavan tuen.
— Antti Kaikkonen (@anttikaikkonen) <a href="https://twitter.com/anttikaikkonen/status/1603307368472797184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Praising Kaikkonen, the Finance Minister and Centre Party leader Annika Saariko said, "We proudly support Antti Kaikkonene's decision."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-asked-if-she-met-finland-pm-because-of-similar-age-gender-538838">Also read |&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender</a>

After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sweden and Finland broke their non-alignment and might become NATO members.&nbsp;

Both countries got support from all 30 NATO members except&nbsp;Turkey and Hungary.&nbsp;

While Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban last month said that the country would approve Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has demanded more rigid stands by both countries against Kurdish militants. &nbsp;

Finland offers 54 days of paternity leave to fathers whose children were born before September 2022.&nbsp;

According to the government, 80 per cent of fathers in Finland take paternity leave. &nbsp;

In the 1990s, the then prime minister Paavo Lipponen took paternity leave, making it a ground-breaking decision.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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Finnish Defence Minister Antti Kaikkonen will be taking paternity leave for almost two months early next year amid his country's bid to join NATO. Kaikkonen on Twitter said, "Children are only little for a moment, and I want to remember it in more than just photographs.

Finnish Defence Minister Antti Kaikkonen will be taking paternity leave for almost two months early next year amid his country's bid to join NATO. Kaikkonen on Twitter said, "Children are only little for a moment, and I want to remember it in more than just photographs." Also read | PM Victor Orban says Hungary will back Finland and Sweden's NATO bid next year Centre MP Mikko Savola will take Kaikkonen's place in his absence. Centre party members praised his decision, AFP reported. Keskusta valitsi tänään yksimielisesti kansanedustaja Mikko Savolan hoitamaan puolustusministerin tehtävää isyysvapaani ajan. Savolalla on puolustuspolitiikasta pitkä ja laaja kokemus ja osaaminen. Hommat tulevat taatusti hyvin hoitumaan. Annan Mikolle kaiken tarvittavan tuen. — Antti Kaikkonen (@anttikaikkonen) December 15, 2022 × Praising Kaikkonen, the Finance Minister and Centre Party leader Annika Saariko said, "We proudly support Antti Kaikkonene's decision." Also read | Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sweden and Finland broke their non-alignment and might become NATO members. Both countries got support from all 30 NATO members except Turkey and Hungary. While Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban last month said that the country would approve Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has demanded more rigid stands by both countries against Kurdish militants. Finland offers 54 days of paternity leave to fathers whose children were born before September 2022. According to the government, 80 per cent of fathers in Finland take paternity leave. In the 1990s, the then prime minister Paavo Lipponen took paternity leave, making it a ground-breaking decision. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Finnish Defence Minister Antti Kaikkonen announces paternity leave amid NATO bid, Mikko Savola to replace him

The US-China war has been escalating. In recent, Biden has blacklisted Chinese top chip maker and 21 other major firms. US fears that YMTC will divert American technology to Chinese firms.

US: Biden blacklists Chinese top chip maker and 21 other major firms

The three-day US-Africa summit has concluded in Washington DC. Are there any major takeaways from the forum? Watch this to know.

U.S. efforts to court Africa though Washington Summit

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Jammu and Kashmir's business community, especially the hoteliers of Gulmarg, are distressed as they might have to shut down their businesses as new land law came&nbsp;into effect in the Union Territory. The government of Jammu and Kashmir issued a notification, which stated that the owner must hand over possession of leased land immediately, failing which they shall be evicted. The government will not renew the leases of outgoing lessees, and an online auction will be held to outsource the land.&nbsp;

The political parties have strongly opposed this decision and criticised the BJP government for taking such decisions against the locals of Jammu and Kashmir. The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said that the current leaseholders should be given a chance to renew the lease.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-becoming-a-drug-hub-among-top-2-places-of-drug-abusers-in-india-542688">Also read |&nbsp;Kashmir becoming a drug hub, among top 2 places of drug abusers in India</a>

''Taking away the land from people, and throwing them out like this? What's the need for that? The law of natural justice is that you give lease holders the right to renew the lease, they should have the first right of refusal. You can decide the rates,, if they are not able to give that rate or does not want to, then it can be given to anyone else. But first right is the current lease holder who took care of it for years. If LG takes that decision, then we won't have any issue with that. But from the order that has been taken it is very evident that they want to take away the land from the locals and give it to the outsiders, '' said Abdullah.

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has strongly opposed the decision as well. She said that BJP is snatching the land of locals and giving it to outsiders. She also took a dig at the central government by saying that China has made incursions in Ladakh, and Arunachal and they have no reply to that, but they want to take away the land from locals of the Union Territory.&nbsp;

''It's a big betrayal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP calls us citizens and atoot ang&nbsp;and are snatching the land from those very citizens. While China has captured our land both at Ladakh and Arunachal, BJP has no reply to that. They want to take away the land from the locals. They are taking our lands, resources. People who are doing business on these lands are being asked to vacate&nbsp;'' said Mufti.&nbsp;

Altaf Bukhari, leader of&nbsp;J&amp;K's Apni Party has also criticised the decision of the government as well. ''It cannot stand the scrutiny of law and It is Inhuman. We have not seen any laws like these anywhere, If the lease was not renewed by previous governments, it is not the fault of the business community. The lease needs to be extended to these already running businesses&nbsp;on the land," he said.&nbsp;

However, the government does not seem to have any plans to bring any change in the notification.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha&nbsp;said that the land laws in Jammu and Kashmir were regressive. H said, ''The land laws in Jammu and Kashmir were very regressive, They were not framed keeping in view the interests of the common masses. We are doing everything that will help the local people of the Union Territory.&nbsp;Around 40 to 45 per cent cases in various courts are due to land disputes."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-jk-cm-omar-abdullah-criticises-bjp-government-over-hostile-relationship-with-neighbouring-countries-542671">Also read |&nbsp;Former JK CM Omar Abdullah criticises BJP government over hostile relationship with neighbouring countries</a>

The 2022 land law in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir states that&nbsp;land can be leased for education, healthcare, tourism, skill development and recreational purposes. The government can give the land to&nbsp;ex-servicemen, war widows, and families of deprived categories.&nbsp;

Gulmarg has around 60 hotels and huts built on the leased land. And the lease for around 99 per cent of hotels has expired. And the hoteliers&nbsp;of Gulmarg have said that if the lease is not renewed, all of them will have to shut their businesses.&nbsp;

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Jammu and Kashmir's business community, especially the hoteliers of Gulmarg, are distressed as they might have to shut down their businesses as new land law came into effect in the Union Territory.

Jammu and Kashmir's business community, especially the hoteliers of Gulmarg, are distressed as they might have to shut down their businesses as new land law came into effect in the Union Territory. The government of Jammu and Kashmir issued a notification, which stated that the owner must hand over possession of leased land immediately, failing which they shall be evicted. The government will not renew the leases of outgoing lessees, and an online auction will be held to outsource the land. The political parties have strongly opposed this decision and criticised the BJP government for taking such decisions against the locals of Jammu and Kashmir. The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said that the current leaseholders should be given a chance to renew the lease. Also read | Kashmir becoming a drug hub, among top 2 places of drug abusers in India ''Taking away the land from people, and throwing them out like this? What's the need for that? The law of natural justice is that you give lease holders the right to renew the lease, they should have the first right of refusal. You can decide the rates,, if they are not able to give that rate or does not want to, then it can be given to anyone else. But first right is the current lease holder who took care of it for years. If LG takes that decision, then we won't have any issue with that. But from the order that has been taken it is very evident that they want to take away the land from the locals and give it to the outsiders, '' said Abdullah. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has strongly opposed the decision as well. She said that BJP is snatching the land of locals and giving it to outsiders. She also took a dig at the central government by saying that China has made incursions in Ladakh, and Arunachal and they have no reply to that, but they want to take away the land from locals of the Union Territory. ''It's a big betrayal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP calls us citizens and atoot ang and are snatching the land from those very citizens. While China has captured our land both at Ladakh and Arunachal, BJP has no reply to that. They want to take away the land from the locals. They are taking our lands, resources. People who are doing business on these lands are being asked to vacate '' said Mufti. Altaf Bukhari, leader of J&K's Apni Party has also criticised the decision of the government as well. ''It cannot stand the scrutiny of law and It is Inhuman. We have not seen any laws like these anywhere, If the lease was not renewed by previous governments, it is not the fault of the business community. The lease needs to be extended to these already running businesses on the land," he said. However, the government does not seem to have any plans to bring any change in the notification. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that the land laws in Jammu and Kashmir were regressive. H said, ''The land laws in Jammu and Kashmir were very regressive, They were not framed keeping in view the interests of the common masses. We are doing everything that will help the local people of the Union Territory. Around 40 to 45 per cent cases in various courts are due to land disputes." Also read | Former JK CM Omar Abdullah criticises BJP government over hostile relationship with neighbouring countries The 2022 land law in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir states that land can be leased for education, healthcare, tourism, skill development and recreational purposes. The government can give the land to ex-servicemen, war widows, and families of deprived categories. Gulmarg has around 60 hotels and huts built on the leased land. And the lease for around 99 per cent of hotels has expired. And the hoteliers of Gulmarg have said that if the lease is not renewed, all of them will have to shut their businesses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: New land rule in Jammu and Kashmir concerns Gulmarg hoteliers, former CM Omar Abdullah criticises BJP

Former Australian deputy prime minister Michael McCormack fell ill after drinking a bowl of Kava at once during his visit to Micronesia.&nbsp;

Kava is a powerful drink made with pepper plants with many qualities.&nbsp;

The MP took to Twitter and said, "Trouble is, I did stomach it! In a bid to show my respect to local traditions I drank the whole bowl of Sakau. Feeling much better now and it’s been a great chance to connect with our Pacific family in FSM."

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Trouble is, I did stomach it! In a bid to show my respect to local traditions I drank the whole bowl of Sakau. Feeling much better now and it’s been a great chance to connect with our Pacific family in FSM. 🇦🇺🇫🇲 <a href="https://t.co/Bs1QKBvtYa">https://t.co/Bs1QKBvtYa</a>
— Michael McCormack (@M_McCormackMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_McCormackMP/status/1603297210904760320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fraud-alert-nearly-11000-australians-lost-over-7-million-to-a-hi-mum-message-on-whatsapp-543622">Also read |&nbsp;'Fraud alert': Nearly 11,000 Australians lost over $7 million to a 'Hi mum' message on WhatsApp</a>

As he fell ill, the Australian delegation fanned him and rubbed his back as he held a can to his mouth. He was then assisted to a vehicle and driven to the hospital treated for dehydration.&nbsp;

Talking to Guardian he said that he was in good spirits until he had that kava and fell unexpectedly ill.&nbsp;

He said, "I was trying to be respectful – I really took one for team Australia."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/toxic-spinach-sparks-health-alert-in-australia-after-people-suffer-sickness-hallucinations-543574">Also read | Spinach poisoning sparks health scare in Australia, people suffer sickness, hallucinations</a>

He added, "They made it in front of us, squeezing the juice out of these massive tree roots, just absolutely squeezing it. It had a peppery essence and I was OK for 10 to 15 minutes and then I thought, ‘ooooh, OK'."

"I went cross-eyed. I really did. Then someone got me a bucket and, well, yeah."

After he recovered the MP said he slept for 14 hours straight and later went to the Australian ambassador's house.&nbsp;

As a member of the bipartisan Australian parliamentary delegation on a tour to the Pacific region, McCormack stayed in Palikir while others went&nbsp;to Palau.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Former Australian deputy prime minister Michael McCormack fell ill after drinking a bowl of Kava at once during his visit to Micronesia. Kava is a powerful drink made with pepper plants with many qualities.

Former Australian deputy prime minister Michael McCormack fell ill after drinking a bowl of Kava at once during his visit to Micronesia. Kava is a powerful drink made with pepper plants with many qualities. The MP took to Twitter and said, "Trouble is, I did stomach it! In a bid to show my respect to local traditions I drank the whole bowl of Sakau. Feeling much better now and it’s been a great chance to connect with our Pacific family in FSM." Trouble is, I did stomach it! In a bid to show my respect to local traditions I drank the whole bowl of Sakau. Feeling much better now and it’s been a great chance to connect with our Pacific family in FSM. 🇦🇺🇫🇲 https://t.co/Bs1QKBvtYa — Michael McCormack (@M_McCormackMP) December 15, 2022 × Also read | 'Fraud alert': Nearly 11,000 Australians lost over $7 million to a 'Hi mum' message on WhatsApp As he fell ill, the Australian delegation fanned him and rubbed his back as he held a can to his mouth. He was then assisted to a vehicle and driven to the hospital treated for dehydration. Talking to Guardian he said that he was in good spirits until he had that kava and fell unexpectedly ill. He said, "I was trying to be respectful – I really took one for team Australia." Also read | Spinach poisoning sparks health scare in Australia, people suffer sickness, hallucinations He added, "They made it in front of us, squeezing the juice out of these massive tree roots, just absolutely squeezing it. It had a peppery essence and I was OK for 10 to 15 minutes and then I thought, ‘ooooh, OK'." "I went cross-eyed. I really did. Then someone got me a bucket and, well, yeah." After he recovered the MP said he slept for 14 hours straight and later went to the Australian ambassador's house. As a member of the bipartisan Australian parliamentary delegation on a tour to the Pacific region, McCormack stayed in Palikir while others went to Palau. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australia's former deputy PM Michael McCormack rushed to hospital after drinking a bowl of kava at once

The last three episodes of 'Harry and Meghan', a documentary about Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, has finally been released. Watch this to know about shocking revelations they made.

Meghan & Harry documentary: 5 revelations

Malaysia's fire and rescue department vehicles arrive and exit the campsite at a Malaysian farm that was hit by a deadly landslide on Friday. At least 16 people were killed in the incident near the town of Batang Kali, just outside the capital Kuala Lumpur.

Watch: Rescue workers arrive at Malaysia campsite after deadly landslide

Another scam case makes headlines. This time a scam message has made Australians lose over seven million dollars this year.&nbsp;

The scam happened mostly over Whatsapp where fraudsters pretended to be their family members and messaged asking for money.

To get the victim's attention, the fraudsters texted "Hi mum" in the messages, Money control reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pig-butchering-crypto-scam-how-a-wrong-text-message-can-swipe-out-millions-of-dollars-515534">Also read |&nbsp;‘Pig butchering’ crypto scam: How a wrong text message can swipe out millions of dollars</a>

After the victim was convinced that the person texting is actually their son or daughter or close family member, the fraudster began asking for money assuming that their phone is lost and using a new phone number to ask for help.&nbsp;

The majority of victims were women older than 55 years old.&nbsp;As per reports till now over $7.2 million has been scammed&nbsp;by nearly 11,000 people as of now.&nbsp;

The Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) claimed that the number of frauds raised rapidly in the last three months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4g-to-5g-sim-upgrade-scam-everything-you-need-to-know-526042">Also read |&nbsp;India: '4G to 5G SIM upgrade' scam, here's everything you need to know</a>

It said, "We’re urging Australians to be wary of phone messages from a family member or friend claiming they need help, following a significant rise in ‘Hi Mum’ scams. More than 1,150 people fell victim to the scam, with total reported losses of $2.6 million."&nbsp;

ACCC's deputy chairman gave instructions. He said, "If you’re contacted by someone claiming to be your son, daughter, relative, or friend, start by calling them on the number already stored in your phone to confirm if it’s no longer in use. If they pick up – you know it’s a scam."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Another scam case makes headlines. This time a scam message has made Australians lose over seven million dollars this year. The scam happened mostly over Whatsapp where fraudsters pretended to be their family members and messaged asking for money.

Another scam case makes headlines. This time a scam message has made Australians lose over seven million dollars this year. The scam happened mostly over Whatsapp where fraudsters pretended to be their family members and messaged asking for money. To get the victim's attention, the fraudsters texted "Hi mum" in the messages, Money control reported. Also read | ‘Pig butchering’ crypto scam: How a wrong text message can swipe out millions of dollars After the victim was convinced that the person texting is actually their son or daughter or close family member, the fraudster began asking for money assuming that their phone is lost and using a new phone number to ask for help. The majority of victims were women older than 55 years old. As per reports till now over $7.2 million has been scammed by nearly 11,000 people as of now. The Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) claimed that the number of frauds raised rapidly in the last three months. Also read | India: '4G to 5G SIM upgrade' scam, here's everything you need to know It said, "We’re urging Australians to be wary of phone messages from a family member or friend claiming they need help, following a significant rise in ‘Hi Mum’ scams. More than 1,150 people fell victim to the scam, with total reported losses of $2.6 million." ACCC's deputy chairman gave instructions. He said, "If you’re contacted by someone claiming to be your son, daughter, relative, or friend, start by calling them on the number already stored in your phone to confirm if it’s no longer in use. If they pick up – you know it’s a scam." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Fraud alert': Nearly 11,000 Australians lost over $7 million to a 'Hi mum' message on WhatsApp

Twitter account that tracks flights of Elon Musk's private jet has been suspended despite musk earlier saying that his commitment to free speech extended to not banning the account.

Twitter grounds account tracking Elon Musk's jet; Musk earlier promised the account was safe

533 that's the number of journalists that have been jailed around the world just in the past year according to Reporters Without Borders or the RSF.

RSF: Number of journalists imprisoned worldwide hits new record

China has decided to recall staff from Manchester instead of letting them face questioning. The UK wanted six officials to wave immunity. Watch this report.

UK: China recalls staff from Manchester consulate instead of letting them face questioning

United States prosecutors on Wednesday charged eight social media influencers with fraud over the allegations of illegally pushing stocks on novice traders via Twitter and Discord.&nbsp;Reportedly, the individuals ripped off about $114 million of unsuspecting followers by purporting to be successful traders on the social media platforms.

As per an AFP report, prosecutors in the Southern District of Texas said that the accused were engaged in a so-called "pump and dump" scheme in which they would hype particular stocks to their followers with the intent of dumping them once prices jump.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as per Reuters report, said that it has filed civil charges against the defendants, claiming that seven of them used Discord and Twitter to boost stocks. The eighth&nbsp;one has been charged with aiding and abetting the scheme via a podcast he ran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-federal-reserve-raises-interest-rate-for-7th-time-this-year-heres-what-it-means-543234">US Federal Reserve raises interest rate for 7th time this year: Here’s what it means</a>

Investigators said that the influencers mainly focused on penny stocks.

As per Forbes, penny stocks "are shares of publicly-listed companies that have a very low price value" that generally trade at really low prices of a dollar or less. Most of these shares were in companies with a market capitalisation of less than $100 million.

Mitchell Hennessey of Hoboken, New Jersey, Texas residents Edward Constantinescu, Perry Matlock, John Rybarczyk and Dan Knight, along with California residents Gary Deel and Tom Cooperman, Stefan Hrvatin of Miami have&nbsp;been named as the defendants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-has-stopped-paying-office-rent-considers-not-paying-severance-to-employees-fired-report-543010">Twitter has stopped paying office rent, considers not paying severance to fired employees: Report</a>

Of these Matlock has pleaded not guilty.

Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Polite of the Justice Department's Criminal Division said that "Securities fraud victimises innocent investors and undermines the integrity of our public markets."

(With inputs from agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

United States prosecutors on Wednesday charged eight social media influencers with fraud over the allegations of illegally pushing stocks on novice traders via Twitter and Discord.

United States prosecutors on Wednesday charged eight social media influencers with fraud over the allegations of illegally pushing stocks on novice traders via Twitter and Discord. Reportedly, the individuals ripped off about $114 million of unsuspecting followers by purporting to be successful traders on the social media platforms. As per an AFP report, prosecutors in the Southern District of Texas said that the accused were engaged in a so-called "pump and dump" scheme in which they would hype particular stocks to their followers with the intent of dumping them once prices jump. The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as per Reuters report, said that it has filed civil charges against the defendants, claiming that seven of them used Discord and Twitter to boost stocks. The eighth one has been charged with aiding and abetting the scheme via a podcast he ran. Also read | US Federal Reserve raises interest rate for 7th time this year: Here’s what it means Investigators said that the influencers mainly focused on penny stocks. As per Forbes, penny stocks "are shares of publicly-listed companies that have a very low price value" that generally trade at really low prices of a dollar or less. Most of these shares were in companies with a market capitalisation of less than $100 million. Mitchell Hennessey of Hoboken, New Jersey, Texas residents Edward Constantinescu, Perry Matlock, John Rybarczyk and Dan Knight, along with California residents Gary Deel and Tom Cooperman, Stefan Hrvatin of Miami have been named as the defendants. Also read | Twitter has stopped paying office rent, considers not paying severance to fired employees: Report Of these Matlock has pleaded not guilty. Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Polite of the Justice Department's Criminal Division said that "Securities fraud victimises innocent investors and undermines the integrity of our public markets." (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.

US: 8 social media influencers posing as fin experts rip off $114mn from unsuspecting users; booked

Thailand's royal palace on Thursday said that King Maha Vajiralongkorn's eldest child, princess Bajrakitiyabha has been hospitalised due to a heart problem.&nbsp;Giving an update on her health, the royal palace stated that the princess is now doing fine and her condition is stable, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-storied-life-thai-princess-turned-populist-aims-to-be-pm-196141">Also read |&nbsp;After storied life, Thai princess turned populist aims to be PM</a>

Bajrakitiyabha, 44, was attending a dog championship organised by the army when she fell unconscious and was taken to hospital.&nbsp;

After her situation was stable, she was taken to Bangkok in a helicopter.&nbsp;

She was treated at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn hospital, where she underwent several tests and treatment.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pop-singing-thai-princess-ubolratana-now-plunging-into-politics-196192">Also read |&nbsp;Pop-singing Thai princess Ubolratana, now plunging into politics</a>

Princess has worked as Thailand's Ambassador to Austria, Slovakia and Slovenia and might be crowned. She has also worked with the United Nations.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha is one of the three children of the king who has yet to formally announce an heir. As per reports, there has been no official discussion over the princess taking the throne.&nbsp;

Earlier, the royal palace rule mentioned that a male should be the heir&nbsp;to the throne, however, the 1974 amendment to the constitution&nbsp;allowed the daughter of the royals to be crowned.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thailand's royal palace on Thursday said that King Maha Vajiralongkorn's eldest child, princess Bajrakitiyabha has been hospitalised due to a heart problem. Giving an update on her health, the royal palace stated that the princess is now doing fine and her condition is stable, Reuters reported.

Thailand's royal palace on Thursday said that King Maha Vajiralongkorn's eldest child, princess Bajrakitiyabha has been hospitalised due to a heart problem. Giving an update on her health, the royal palace stated that the princess is now doing fine and her condition is stable, Reuters reported. Also read | After storied life, Thai princess turned populist aims to be PM Bajrakitiyabha, 44, was attending a dog championship organised by the army when she fell unconscious and was taken to hospital. After her situation was stable, she was taken to Bangkok in a helicopter. She was treated at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn hospital, where she underwent several tests and treatment. Also read | Pop-singing Thai princess Ubolratana, now plunging into politics Princess has worked as Thailand's Ambassador to Austria, Slovakia and Slovenia and might be crowned. She has also worked with the United Nations. Princess Bajrakitiyabha is one of the three children of the king who has yet to formally announce an heir. As per reports, there has been no official discussion over the princess taking the throne. Earlier, the royal palace rule mentioned that a male should be the heir to the throne, however, the 1974 amendment to the constitution allowed the daughter of the royals to be crowned. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thai princess Bajrakitiyabha rushed to hospital due to heart condition, stable now 

In the latest, Russia has installed an intercontinental missile ahead of 'Strategic Forces' day.&nbsp;In a&nbsp;sign of the importance it attaches to its strategic nuclear deterrent, the Russian military has loaded a “Yars” ballistic missile into a silo launcher in the Kaluga region. Furthermore,&nbsp;National Health Service nurses in Britain staged a strike on Thursday, their first ever national walkout, as a bitter dispute with the government over pay ramps up pressure on already-stretched hospitals at one of the busiest times of year.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-installs-intercontinental-missile-ahead-of-strategic-forces-day-watch-543292">Russia installs intercontinental missile ahead of 'Strategic Forces Day' - WATCH</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8d76bdc-619e-47b7-b47a-36a6ce1ae17b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/thediplomat_2016-01-12_09-46-12.jpg" />

The Russian government has hinted towards nuclear retaliation in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine but a video released by the military has sparked fears once again. In the video, which was released by the Ministry of Defence just days ahead of Russia’s “Day of Strategic Missile Forces”, the military could be seen loading a “Yars” intercontinental ballistic missile into a silo launcher in Kaluga.

In the official statement, the military confirmed that an “intercontinental ballistic missile of the Yars complex was loaded into a silo launcher at the Kozelsky missile formation in the Kaluga region.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-says-ready-for-a-showdown-with-union-leaders-vows-to-introduce-anti-strike-law-543136">UK nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages and working conditions</a>

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UK nurses on Thursday staged a walkout in an unprecedented first of the two daylong strikes they term as the "last resort" in their fight for better wages and working conditions. Up to 100,000 members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are stopping work from 0800 to 2000 GMT after rejecting a government pay offer.&nbsp;The RCN's industrial action is just one of the many waves of stoppages by public and private sector employees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-carries-major-expansion-in-south-china-sea-says-report-543377">Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report</a>

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Washington-based think tank, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIC), has&nbsp; claimed that Vietnam has conducted major expansion in the South China Sea.&nbsp;The CSIS reported that Vietnam has conducted this expansion by dredging and landfill work at most of its outposts in South China, said a Reuters report.&nbsp;

CSIS's Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) said that these efforts include expanded landfill work at four features and new dredging at five others.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmarks-former-pm-rasmussen-become-foreign-minister-543344">Denmark's former PM Rasmussen appointed as new foreign minister</a>

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In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday. After leaving the right-wing Liberal party to create his own center-right party, the Moderates, Rasmussen, who was prime minister from 2009 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2019, took office.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-un-jaishankar-lays-out-indias-norms-for-multilateral-reforms-543141">At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c59d48a0-2922-4293-af66-c9e8c6a47427" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp-Image-2022-09-10-at-6.03.47-PM.jpeg" />

India doubled down on pushing reforms in the United Nations and proposed NORMS, or New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism, even as it reprimanded Pakistan and China on the issue of terrorism.

Presiding over the UN Security Council open debate on 'Maintenance of International Peace and Security: New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism', India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar without naming Pakistan, called out credentials of a country that harboured Osama bin Laden, the terror chief. Jaishankar also said that&nbsp;"multilateral platforms are being misused to justify and protect perpetrators", reflecting China's continued blocking of UN sanctions on Pakistan-based terrorists.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-recognises-ukraines-soviet-era-famine-as-genocide-543418">EU parliament recognises Ukraine's soviet-era famine as 'genocide'</a>

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The European Parliament has decided to recognise the 1930s starvation of millions of people in Ukraine under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin a “genocide”. The decision was taken after the members voted on the resolution and it was accepted by unanimous support.&nbsp;The legislature "recognises the Holodomor, the artificial famine of 1932-1933 in Ukraine caused by a deliberate policy of the Soviet regime, as a genocide against the Ukrainian people".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-student-at-cambridge-straightens-out-2500-year-old-sanskrit-grammatical-problem-543380">Rishi Rajpopat, an Indian student&nbsp;at Cambridge&nbsp;straightens out&nbsp;2,500-year-old Sanskrit grammatical problem&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4749769-bb6f-4201-b55a-e64a655bf494" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0_Sans1.jpg" />

The grammatical conundrum that academics have been unable decipher&nbsp;since the fifth century BC has been resolved by an Indian PhD student at Cambridge University. According to reports, Rishi Rajpopat, 27, has decrypted a book penned by&nbsp;Panini, a master of the Sanskrit language.&nbsp; According to academics, the&nbsp;Adhyyy&nbsp;of Panini, a system of rules for deriving or forming new words from root words, has contradicting principles, which has left many scholars perplexed about which rules to follow to produce new words.

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: UK airports to relax aircraft liquid rules beginning in mid-2024

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In the latest, Russia has installed an intercontinental missile ahead of 'Strategic Forces' day. In a sign of the importance it attaches to its strategic nuclear deterrent, the Russian military has loaded a “Yars” ballistic missile into a silo launcher in the Kaluga region.

In the latest, Russia has installed an intercontinental missile ahead of 'Strategic Forces' day. In a sign of the importance it attaches to its strategic nuclear deterrent, the Russian military has loaded a “Yars” ballistic missile into a silo launcher in the Kaluga region. Furthermore, National Health Service nurses in Britain staged a strike on Thursday, their first ever national walkout, as a bitter dispute with the government over pay ramps up pressure on already-stretched hospitals at one of the busiest times of year. Click on the headlines to read more. Russia installs intercontinental missile ahead of 'Strategic Forces Day' - WATCH The Russian government has hinted towards nuclear retaliation in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine but a video released by the military has sparked fears once again. In the video, which was released by the Ministry of Defence just days ahead of Russia’s “Day of Strategic Missile Forces”, the military could be seen loading a “Yars” intercontinental ballistic missile into a silo launcher in Kaluga. In the official statement, the military confirmed that an “intercontinental ballistic missile of the Yars complex was loaded into a silo launcher at the Kozelsky missile formation in the Kaluga region.” UK nurses begin unprecedented day-long strike for better wages and working conditions UK nurses on Thursday staged a walkout in an unprecedented first of the two daylong strikes they term as the "last resort" in their fight for better wages and working conditions. Up to 100,000 members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are stopping work from 0800 to 2000 GMT after rejecting a government pay offer. The RCN's industrial action is just one of the many waves of stoppages by public and private sector employees. Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report Washington-based think tank, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIC), has claimed that Vietnam has conducted major expansion in the South China Sea. The CSIS reported that Vietnam has conducted this expansion by dredging and landfill work at most of its outposts in South China, said a Reuters report. CSIS's Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) said that these efforts include expanded landfill work at four features and new dredging at five others. Denmark's former PM Rasmussen appointed as new foreign minister In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday. After leaving the right-wing Liberal party to create his own center-right party, the Moderates, Rasmussen, who was prime minister from 2009 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2019, took office. At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms India doubled down on pushing reforms in the United Nations and proposed NORMS, or New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism, even as it reprimanded Pakistan and China on the issue of terrorism. Presiding over the UN Security Council open debate on 'Maintenance of International Peace and Security: New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism', India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar without naming Pakistan, called out credentials of a country that harboured Osama bin Laden, the terror chief. Jaishankar also said that "multilateral platforms are being misused to justify and protect perpetrators", reflecting China's continued blocking of UN sanctions on Pakistan-based terrorists. EU parliament recognises Ukraine's soviet-era famine as 'genocide' The European Parliament has decided to recognise the 1930s starvation of millions of people in Ukraine under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin a “genocide”. The decision was taken after the members voted on the resolution and it was accepted by unanimous support. The legislature "recognises the Holodomor, the artificial famine of 1932-1933 in Ukraine caused by a deliberate policy of the Soviet regime, as a genocide against the Ukrainian people". Rishi Rajpopat, an Indian student at Cambridge straightens out 2,500-year-old Sanskrit grammatical problem The grammatical conundrum that academics have been unable decipher since the fifth century BC has been resolved by an Indian PhD student at Cambridge University. According to reports, Rishi Rajpopat, 27, has decrypted a book penned by Panini, a master of the Sanskrit language. According to academics, the Adhyyy of Panini, a system of rules for deriving or forming new words from root words, has contradicting principles, which has left many scholars perplexed about which rules to follow to produce new words. WATCH | WION Dispatch: UK airports to relax aircraft liquid rules beginning in mid-2024 WATCH | WION Dispatch | Boris Becker released from jail, will fly back to Germany WATCH | China's return to wildlife farming can risk global health

Top 10 world news: Russia's installation of intercontinental missile, British nurses strike for  pay, & more

The Cyberspace Administration of China drew strict regulations over governing online comments that came into effect on Thursday (Dec 16).&nbsp;

The cyber department said that these rules will help in protecting national security, public interest and citizens.

The rules were published last month. The new rules state, "Service providers shall... carry out a credit evaluation of users based on their commenting behaviour."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-crackdown-on-users-liking-inappropriate-social-media-posts-543304">Also read |&nbsp;China to crackdown on users “liking” inappropriate social media posts</a>

It further stated that individuals who have been "seriosuly discredited" will be under 'blackist,' prohibiting them from commenting&nbsp;not even if they make a new account.&nbsp;

The Asian country with one of the most advanced technology has been under strict social media rules with a further threat to their freedom of expression.&nbsp;

Despite these social media platforms maintaining language, several too political, sensitive or insulting comments remain online.&nbsp;

The rules also stated that all users must register with their original names and phone numbers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seeking-to-counter-china-biden-says-us-is-all-in-in-africas-future-543129">Also read |&nbsp;Seeking to counter China, Biden says US is 'all in' in Africa's future</a>

While the state media praised the new rules saying "the internet is not a lawless zone," citizens objected to them.&nbsp;

One user on Weibo said, "It limits antisocial behaviour, rumours and online violence, but you also have to hear people's aspirations and criticisms."

Another user commented that the rules are not very detailed and "cut very wide."

A third user commented, "We hardly criticise them at all and already they can't stand it anymore."

The rules were proposed before the Covid protests in China started. Despite such tight rules over media platforms, new rallies were still circulating in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Cyberspace Administration of China drew strict regulations over governing online comments that came into effect on Thursday (Dec 16). The cyber department said that these rules will help in protecting national security, public interest and citizens.

The Cyberspace Administration of China drew strict regulations over governing online comments that came into effect on Thursday (Dec 16). The cyber department said that these rules will help in protecting national security, public interest and citizens. The rules were published last month. The new rules state, "Service providers shall... carry out a credit evaluation of users based on their commenting behaviour." Also read | China to crackdown on users “liking” inappropriate social media posts It further stated that individuals who have been "seriosuly discredited" will be under 'blackist,' prohibiting them from commenting not even if they make a new account. The Asian country with one of the most advanced technology has been under strict social media rules with a further threat to their freedom of expression. Despite these social media platforms maintaining language, several too political, sensitive or insulting comments remain online. The rules also stated that all users must register with their original names and phone numbers. Also read | Seeking to counter China, Biden says US is 'all in' in Africa's future While the state media praised the new rules saying "the internet is not a lawless zone," citizens objected to them. One user on Weibo said, "It limits antisocial behaviour, rumours and online violence, but you also have to hear people's aspirations and criticisms." Another user commented that the rules are not very detailed and "cut very wide." A third user commented, "We hardly criticise them at all and already they can't stand it anymore." The rules were proposed before the Covid protests in China started. Despite such tight rules over media platforms, new rallies were still circulating in the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China issues new rules controlling regulation of online comments, says will protect national security

China issued an outright ban on hunting, trading and transporting wildlife, as well as the consumption as food, after public health experts suggested the Covid-19 pandemic could have originated from the supply chain. Well, NGOs and experts have warned that China now appears to be weakening its post-Covid restrictions on the farming of wildlife such as porcupines, civets and bamboo rats. Watch this to know more.

China's return to wildlife farming can risk global health

The UK government will soon ease some rules regarding security check-ins at the airport in 2024. Passengers at most major British airports will be able to carry liquids in two-liter containers.

WION Dispatch: UK airports to relax aircraft liquid rules beginning in mid-2024

HSBC is one of the largest banking and financial services institutions in the world that serves millions of customers across the globe. Now, it has updated its climate policy in a step towards a greener future.

WION Climate Tracker | HSBC updates its climate policy in a step towards a greener future

It's playtime for London Zoo animals as they are now enjoying sub zero temperatures. Animals can be seen playing with the first snow of the season.

WION Climate Tracker | It's playtime for London Zoo animals as they enjoy sub zero temperatures

Air pollution has been called the most pressing environmental health crisis of our time. Now, Iran's capital chokes under poor air quality and schools have been forced to shut over it.

WION Climate Tracker | Iran's capital chokes under poor air quality

Africa is facing one of the worst food crises where millions of people are suffering from malnutrition and are being forced to migrate in search of food.

WION Climate Tracker | Africa faces its worst hunger crisis with millions struggling for food

In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday. After leaving the right-wing Liberal party to create his own center-right party, the Moderates, Rasmussen, who was prime minister from 2009 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2019, took office.

Together with the Liberals, a fourth party, his Moderates are members of Frederiksen's new coalition administration.

The last effort, in 1978–1979, lasted only 14 months, making the alliance between the right-wing Liberals and the left-wing Social Democrats rare in Denmark.

In the end, Jakob Ellemann-Jensen, the head of the liberal party, decided to form a government with Frederiksen "in Denmark's best interest" after running an anti-Frederiksen campaign in an effort to secure a right-wing majority.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/zombie-flies-discovered-by-scientists-in-denmark-350075">'Zombie flies' discovered by scientists in Denmark</a>

He is appointed defence minister and deputy prime minister.

The second term of Frederiksen as prime minister appears to be significantly different from her first, which spanned from 2019 to 2022. During that time, she presided over a minority Social Democratic government that was dependent on the backing of her longtime left-wing friends.

Even though the left-wing bloc won the election in November with an overwhelming majority, Frederiksen decided to establish a left-right coalition.

She said that the conflict in Ukraine and the economic situation in the world today justified the action, but persuading the Liberals to join forces with her is also certain to cause a rift on the right wing.

Although it had been receptive to the idea, Frederiksen was unable to persuade the center-left Social Liberal party to join the administration. 11 Social Democrats, eight&nbsp;Liberals, and five Moderates make up the new government, which is composed of 15 males and eight&nbsp;women. Nicolai Wammen, a Social Democrat, will continue to be in charge of the finance ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday.

In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday. After leaving the right-wing Liberal party to create his own center-right party, the Moderates, Rasmussen, who was prime minister from 2009 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2019, took office. Together with the Liberals, a fourth party, his Moderates are members of Frederiksen's new coalition administration. The last effort, in 1978–1979, lasted only 14 months, making the alliance between the right-wing Liberals and the left-wing Social Democrats rare in Denmark. In the end, Jakob Ellemann-Jensen, the head of the liberal party, decided to form a government with Frederiksen "in Denmark's best interest" after running an anti-Frederiksen campaign in an effort to secure a right-wing majority. Also read | 'Zombie flies' discovered by scientists in Denmark He is appointed defence minister and deputy prime minister. The second term of Frederiksen as prime minister appears to be significantly different from her first, which spanned from 2019 to 2022. During that time, she presided over a minority Social Democratic government that was dependent on the backing of her longtime left-wing friends. Even though the left-wing bloc won the election in November with an overwhelming majority, Frederiksen decided to establish a left-right coalition. She said that the conflict in Ukraine and the economic situation in the world today justified the action, but persuading the Liberals to join forces with her is also certain to cause a rift on the right wing. Although it had been receptive to the idea, Frederiksen was unable to persuade the center-left Social Liberal party to join the administration. 11 Social Democrats, eight Liberals, and five Moderates make up the new government, which is composed of 15 males and eight women. Nicolai Wammen, a Social Democrat, will continue to be in charge of the finance ministry. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Denmark's former PM Rasmussen appointed as new foreign minister

Washington-based think tank, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIC), has&nbsp; claimed that Vietnam has conducted major expansion in the South China Sea.&nbsp;The CSIS reported that Vietnam has conducted this expansion by dredging and landfill work at most of its outposts in South China, said a Reuters report.&nbsp;

CSIS's Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) said that these efforts include expanded landfill work at four features and new dredging at five others.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-tightens-social-media-rules-move-may-help-regime-531174">Also read | Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime</a>

"The scale of the landfill work, while still falling far short of the more than 3,200 acres of land created by China from 2013 to 2016, is significantly larger than previous efforts from Vietnam and represents a major move toward reinforcing its position in the Spratly Islands," the&nbsp; CSIS report said.

The work in the Spratly&nbsp;Islands,&nbsp;which are also claimed by China and others, has created approximately 420 acres (170 hectares) of new land.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-asks-communist-vietnam-to-never-let-anyone-interfere-530061">Also read |&nbsp;China's Xi asks communist Vietnam to 'never let anyone interfere'</a>

CSIS's AMTI added that Vietnam's outposts at Namyit Island, Pearson Reef and Sand Cay were under major expansions with a dredged port cable which can host much larger vessels than the ones existing.&nbsp;

As per the CSIS report, Naymit Island and Pearson Reef at 117 acres (47 hectares) and 119 hectares are now larger than Spratly Island's 97 acres which had been Vietnam's largest outpost once.&nbsp;

The report said, "But Vietnam’s dredging and landfill activities in 2022 are substantial and signal an intent to significantly fortify its occupied features in the Spratlys."

It added, "(W)hat infrastructure the expanded outposts will host remains to be seen. Whether and to what degree China and other claimants react will bear watching."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Washington-based think tank, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIC), has claimed that Vietnam has conducted major expansion in the South China Sea.

Washington-based think tank, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIC), has claimed that Vietnam has conducted major expansion in the South China Sea. The CSIS reported that Vietnam has conducted this expansion by dredging and landfill work at most of its outposts in South China, said a Reuters report. CSIS's Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) said that these efforts include expanded landfill work at four features and new dredging at five others. Also read | Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime "The scale of the landfill work, while still falling far short of the more than 3,200 acres of land created by China from 2013 to 2016, is significantly larger than previous efforts from Vietnam and represents a major move toward reinforcing its position in the Spratly Islands," the CSIS report said. The work in the Spratly Islands, which are also claimed by China and others, has created approximately 420 acres (170 hectares) of new land. Also read | China's Xi asks communist Vietnam to 'never let anyone interfere' CSIS's AMTI added that Vietnam's outposts at Namyit Island, Pearson Reef and Sand Cay were under major expansions with a dredged port cable which can host much larger vessels than the ones existing. As per the CSIS report, Naymit Island and Pearson Reef at 117 acres (47 hectares) and 119 hectares are now larger than Spratly Island's 97 acres which had been Vietnam's largest outpost once. The report said, "But Vietnam’s dredging and landfill activities in 2022 are substantial and signal an intent to significantly fortify its occupied features in the Spratlys." It added, "(W)hat infrastructure the expanded outposts will host remains to be seen. Whether and to what degree China and other claimants react will bear watching." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report

Swedish media recently gave an update on the five chimpanzees that&nbsp;escaped their enclosure at Furuviksparken zoo.&nbsp;Three chimpanzees were shot dead, the fourth one is injured and the fifth one returned to the zoo on its own.&nbsp;Speaking to SVT, a police spokesman on Wednesday said, "They are very strong animals and absolutely not domestciated." He added that it had been the zoo's decision to shoot the four chimpanzees due to danger to the public, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chimpanzees-show-objects-to-others-just-like-humans-to-simply-grab-attention-study-534256">Also read |&nbsp;Chimpanzees show objects to others, just like humans to simply grab attention: Study</a>

To defend the zoo's decision, Annike Troselius, a spokesperson, said that the animals had to be put down because there was not enough tranquiliser&nbsp;to subdue all of them.

She said that the zoo workers are not allowed to work in close with the chimpanzees.&nbsp;

Visitors and journalists present at the site were urged to get back to their cars, close their windows and go back home.&nbsp;

The zoo further urged residents to stay indoors, lock their doors and windows and avoid going out.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-country-became-the-first-in-the-world-to-give-legal-rights-to-wild-animals-466956">Also read |&nbsp;This country became the first in the world to give legal rights to wild animals</a>

Troselius added, "We have to be sure the last chimpanzees are actually in the enclosure, and this must be done with great care." She said that this is an ongoing event.&nbsp;

The Swedish zoo is currently closed and investigating how the animals were able to escape. It is the only primate research centre in the region.&nbsp;

Troselius said, "We are taking this very seriously indeed. Safety is very important to us and our first focus is to make sure no one gets hurt. Then of course we will investigate this so that it can never happen again."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Swedish media recently gave an update on the five chimpanzees that escaped their enclosure at Furuviksparken zoo. Three chimpanzees were shot dead, the fourth one is injured and the fifth one returned to the zoo on its own.

Swedish media recently gave an update on the five chimpanzees that escaped their enclosure at Furuviksparken zoo. Three chimpanzees were shot dead, the fourth one is injured and the fifth one returned to the zoo on its own. Speaking to SVT, a police spokesman on Wednesday said, "They are very strong animals and absolutely not domestciated." He added that it had been the zoo's decision to shoot the four chimpanzees due to danger to the public, the Guardian reported. Also read | Chimpanzees show objects to others, just like humans to simply grab attention: Study To defend the zoo's decision, Annike Troselius, a spokesperson, said that the animals had to be put down because there was not enough tranquiliser to subdue all of them. She said that the zoo workers are not allowed to work in close with the chimpanzees. Visitors and journalists present at the site were urged to get back to their cars, close their windows and go back home. The zoo further urged residents to stay indoors, lock their doors and windows and avoid going out. Also read | This country became the first in the world to give legal rights to wild animals Troselius added, "We have to be sure the last chimpanzees are actually in the enclosure, and this must be done with great care." She said that this is an ongoing event. The Swedish zoo is currently closed and investigating how the animals were able to escape. It is the only primate research centre in the region. Troselius said, "We are taking this very seriously indeed. Safety is very important to us and our first focus is to make sure no one gets hurt. Then of course we will investigate this so that it can never happen again." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sweden: Chimpanzees escape from zoo, three shot dead, one injured; probe launched

The US' largest automaker, General Motors on Wednesday said it's recalling almost 825,000 trucks and SUVs in North America over headlight issues.&nbsp;According to the company's statement, the vehicles' daylight running lights don't deactivate when the headlights are on, causing excess glare, Reuters reported.

The automobile maker's recall covers 740,000 vehicles from US and 85,000 from Canada.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japanese-automaker-subaru-recalls-271000-vehicles-over-high-risk-of-combustion-542979">Also read |&nbsp;Japanese automaker Subaru recalls 271,000 vehicles over high risk of fire, cautions owners</a>

The recall was ordered after a company's software engineer submitted a report about the issue in October, prompting GM to conduct an investigation and pass the recall order.&nbsp;

GM stated that till now it hasn't received any accident or injury report.&nbsp;

The recall targets models from 2020 to 2023 of Cadillac CT4 and CT5, Buick Envision,&nbsp; Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500,&nbsp;Suburban, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon XL vehicles.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-motors-temporarily-halts-advertising-on-twitter-after-musks-takeover-529321">Also read |&nbsp;General Motors halts advertising on Twitter temporarily after Musk's takeover&nbsp;</a>

GM said that for repair, the control body software will be updated by a dealer or a through-air update will be done to resolve the issue.&nbsp;

Commenting on the issue, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that the vehicles do not comply with US federal vehicles safety and can increase the risk or reduce visibility.&nbsp;

The current GM recall is an extension of the one done in November.&nbsp;

Recently, Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru on December 14 recalled over 270,000 vehicles over high combustion risk. The company had&nbsp;asked owners to park their cars far away from homes and not use them if they see any smoke coming from the dash.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The US' largest automaker, General Motors on Wednesday said it's recalling almost 825,000 trucks and SUVs in North America over headlight issues. According to the company's statement, the vehicles' daylight running lights don't deactivate when the headlights are on, causing excess glare, Reuters reported.

The US' largest automaker, General Motors on Wednesday said it's recalling almost 825,000 trucks and SUVs in North America over headlight issues. According to the company's statement, the vehicles' daylight running lights don't deactivate when the headlights are on, causing excess glare, Reuters reported. The automobile maker's recall covers 740,000 vehicles from US and 85,000 from Canada. Also read | Japanese automaker Subaru recalls 271,000 vehicles over high risk of fire, cautions owners The recall was ordered after a company's software engineer submitted a report about the issue in October, prompting GM to conduct an investigation and pass the recall order. GM stated that till now it hasn't received any accident or injury report. The recall targets models from 2020 to 2023 of Cadillac CT4 and CT5, Buick Envision, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon XL vehicles. Also read | General Motors halts advertising on Twitter temporarily after Musk's takeover GM said that for repair, the control body software will be updated by a dealer or a through-air update will be done to resolve the issue. Commenting on the issue, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that the vehicles do not comply with US federal vehicles safety and can increase the risk or reduce visibility. The current GM recall is an extension of the one done in November. Recently, Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru on December 14 recalled over 270,000 vehicles over high combustion risk. The company had asked owners to park their cars far away from homes and not use them if they see any smoke coming from the dash. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

After Japan's Subaru, now US' General Motors recalls 825,000 trucks and SUVs

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