Weeks after the EU promised at the COP27 climate conference to do more to combat the potent greenhouse gas, papers show some EU member states are attempting to undercut the bloc's planned regulation to curb methane emissions in the oil and gas sector.

WION Climate Tracker: EU bloc weakens methane emissions goal

The US State Department of Energy is going to announce a scientific breakthrough later today. This breakthrough can potentially provide a cheap and clean source of electricity and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

WION Climate Tracker: US to reveal fusion energy 'breakthrough'

Taiwan has reported 18 nuclear-capable Chinese bombers entering into its Air Defence Zone according to Taiwan's Defense Ministry. 21 aircrafts entered the Island's Southwest air defence identification zone which included the 18 nuclear-capable H-6 bombers.

Taiwan reports record infiltration by Chinese bomber aircraft

Google has a "moral obligation" to stop a democracy protest song appearing in search results,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's leader said Tuesday, as row over China's national anthem widened to include the tech giant.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;officials have been infuriated by a series of mistakes at international sporting events in recent weeks when a protest song has been played instead of China's national anthem for the city's athletes.

Their ire has increasingly focused on Google after it emerged that the protest song "Glory to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong" routinely appears at the top of the page when people search for&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's anthem.

City leader John Lee told reporters on Tuesday that Google should ensure China's national anthem -- which the city's athletes compete under -- comes at the top of the search page.&nbsp;

"If any company is in anyway responsible, it has that moral obligation," he said.&nbsp;

Lee's comments came a day after&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's security chief Chris Tang said Google had refused to change the search results, something he said was an issue of "great regret".&nbsp;

According to Tang, a former police chief, Google said its search engine results were governed by an algorithm, not human input.

Both Tang and Lee have countered that Google has been willing to amend search results to abide by local laws, including privacy laws in the European Union.

Lee said his administration would reach out again to Google to pursue the matter.

Google has not yet responded to requests for comment.

China's national anthem is "March of the Volunteers", a rousing song born out of the Communist Party's struggle to liberate the country from Japanese occupation.

"Glory to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong" was penned during huge protests that swept&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;in 2019 and became hugely popular within the city.

It is now all but illegal to sing the song or play its melody under a sweeping national security law that was imposed to crush those protests.

"There are ways to do it," Lee added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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&nbsp;

Google has a "moral obligation" to stop a democracy protest song appearing in search results, Hong Kong's leader said Tuesday, as row over China's national anthem widened to include the tech giant.

Google has a "moral obligation" to stop a democracy protest song appearing in search results, Hong Kong's leader said Tuesday, as row over China's national anthem widened to include the tech giant. Hong Kong officials have been infuriated by a series of mistakes at international sporting events in recent weeks when a protest song has been played instead of China's national anthem for the city's athletes. Their ire has increasingly focused on Google after it emerged that the protest song "Glory to Hong Kong" routinely appears at the top of the page when people search for Hong Kong's anthem. City leader John Lee told reporters on Tuesday that Google should ensure China's national anthem -- which the city's athletes compete under -- comes at the top of the search page. "If any company is in anyway responsible, it has that moral obligation," he said. Lee's comments came a day after Hong Kong's security chief Chris Tang said Google had refused to change the search results, something he said was an issue of "great regret". According to Tang, a former police chief, Google said its search engine results were governed by an algorithm, not human input. Both Tang and Lee have countered that Google has been willing to amend search results to abide by local laws, including privacy laws in the European Union. Lee said his administration would reach out again to Google to pursue the matter. Google has not yet responded to requests for comment. China's national anthem is "March of the Volunteers", a rousing song born out of the Communist Party's struggle to liberate the country from Japanese occupation. "Glory to Hong Kong" was penned during huge protests that swept Hong Kong in 2019 and became hugely popular within the city. It is now all but illegal to sing the song or play its melody under a sweeping national security law that was imposed to crush those protests. "There are ways to do it," Lee added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hong Kong leader says Google has 'moral obligation' to remove wrong anthem

Someone may like a specific food or taste which another person may hate. Ever wondered how your food tastes are developed and determined? Researchers have found answers.

What determines your food preference?

Would you want to live in a country where smoking is banned? Well, New Zealand aims to be smoke-free by 2025, thanks to the passage of a world-first law prohibiting smoking for the next generation

Under-25s  banned from  buying cigarettes?

The UK&nbsp;government on Tuesday (Dec 13) announced fresh sanctions on senior Russian and Iranian officials involved in producing and supplying drones targetting Ukraine.&nbsp;

The list includes Major General Robert Baranov, in charge of unit programming and cruise missiles in Ukraine and four Iranians along with a director of a drone manufacturing company, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-needs-more-than-800-million-in-energy-sector-aid-says-volodymyr-zelensky-542661">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine needs more than $800 million in energy sector aid, says Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

The government said that the 12 Russian top officials will be subjected to asset freezes and travel bans.

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) claimed that over 6,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed since Russia's invasion.&nbsp;

It said, "Intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects is a serious violation of international humanitarian law. Those responsible must be held to account."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mian-abdul-haq-pak-cleric-accused-of-forced-conversions-among-list-of-30-entities-sanctioned-by-the-uk-541879">Also read |&nbsp;Pak cleric accused of forced conversions among list of 30 entities sanctioned by the UK</a>

Addressing Tehran's regime and Moscow's operation in Ukraine, UK's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said that it had been "striking sordid deals."

On weekend, the UK govt sanctioned 30 individuals and entities for violating human rights. This includes Pak Cleric Mian Abdul who has been accused of forced conversions and marriages of minorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The UK government on Tuesday (Dec 13) announced fresh sanctions on senior Russian and Iranian officials involved in producing and supplying drones targetting Ukraine.

The UK government on Tuesday (Dec 13) announced fresh sanctions on senior Russian and Iranian officials involved in producing and supplying drones targetting Ukraine. The list includes Major General Robert Baranov, in charge of unit programming and cruise missiles in Ukraine and four Iranians along with a director of a drone manufacturing company, AFP reported. Also read | Ukraine needs more than $800 million in energy sector aid, says Volodymyr Zelensky The government said that the 12 Russian top officials will be subjected to asset freezes and travel bans. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) claimed that over 6,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed since Russia's invasion. It said, "Intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects is a serious violation of international humanitarian law. Those responsible must be held to account." Also read | Pak cleric accused of forced conversions among list of 30 entities sanctioned by the UK Addressing Tehran's regime and Moscow's operation in Ukraine, UK's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said that it had been "striking sordid deals." On weekend, the UK govt sanctioned 30 individuals and entities for violating human rights. This includes Pak Cleric Mian Abdul who has been accused of forced conversions and marriages of minorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK government announces fresh sanctions against senior Russian and Iranian officials

Brazil football star Neymar has been acquitted of all charges by a Spanish court in a fraud and corruption trial concerning his big-money transfer from Santos to Barcelona in 2013.

Brazil football star Neymar has been acquitted of all charges by a Spanish court in a fraud and corruption trial concerning his big-money transfer from Santos to Barcelona in 2013. The judgement comes a little more than a month after the trial was wrapped up. "It has not been proven that there was a false contract or that DIS was intended to be harmed," the court observed. Brazilian company DIS had brought the charges against the footballer, his father, and former presidents of Santos, and Barcelona for colluding and hiding the real cost of the transfer. DIS argued that the transfer cost was hidden to avoid paying the money the defendants owed for being the partial holder of the player rights. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Neymar's political ideology divides Brazilian fans During the trial, the plaintiff sought a two-year prison term and a $9.8 million fine for Neymar. They also sought a five-year jail term for former Barcelona president Sandro Rosell and a $9 million fine for the club. meanwhile, Barcelona said the transfer cost $60 million (€57.1 million), with $42.6 million (€40 million) paid to N&N, Neymar's parents' company, and $18 million to Santos, of which $7.2 million was given to DIS. Spanish prosecutors initially said they believed the actual value was at least 83 million euros. However, in a shocking turn of events, the prosecutors in November dropped all charges against Neymar and other defendants citing there was not enough evidence to show a crime had been committed. Read more: Neymar corruption trial wraps up after Spain prosecutors drop charges Neymar had a fruitful four seasons at Barcelona where he practically won everything there was to win. In 2017, he transferred to Paris Saint-Germain where he is still a vital cog in the wheel. Neymar represented the Brazil national team at the ongoing FIFA World Cup where his team crashed out of the quarterfinal stage after losing to Croatia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Brazil football star Neymar acquitted of all criminal charges by a Spanish court

Researchers are now hoping for a new treatment of Ketamine and Psychological therapy to help people overcome alcoholism.&nbsp;

To explore the use of ketamine in treating alcohol, researchers are set to lay out a phase three trial worth $2.8 million (£2.4 million), the Guardian reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/at-what-age-you-should-start-taking-care-of-your-heart-heres-what-experts-have-to-say-520972">Also read |&nbsp;At what age you should start taking care of your heart? Here's what experts have to say</a>

The team known as Ketamine for Reduction of Alcohol Relapse (Kare) has previously completed a similar concept which stated that individuals with alcohol disorders given ketamine and therapy together were more likely to remain abstinent than those given a placebo.&nbsp;

Team lead, Prof Celia Morgan said that people with alcohol problems can find difficulty in engaging with psychological interventions which Ketamine would help.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;All alcohol beverages increase cancer risk, study confirms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/all-alcohol-beverages-increase-cancer-risk-study-confirms-539438/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The new trial will take place at seven NHS units in the UK and is expected to test 280 patients with severe alcohol disorders.&nbsp;

Participants will be divided into two groups. The first group will be given a 0.01 mg/kg dose of Ketamine and the other group will have 0.08 mg/kg with seven psychological&nbsp;therapy sessions for each group for three to six months.&nbsp;

Morgan said that it will provide proof for their concept study. Their alcohol intakes will be measured through self-report, smartphone-mounted breathalysers and wearable devices.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Researchers are now hoping for a new treatment of Ketamine and Psychological therapy to help people overcome alcoholism. To explore the use of ketamine in treating alcohol, researchers are set to lay out a phase three trial worth $2.

Researchers are now hoping for a new treatment of Ketamine and Psychological therapy to help people overcome alcoholism. To explore the use of ketamine in treating alcohol, researchers are set to lay out a phase three trial worth $2.8 million (£2.4 million), the Guardian reported. Also read | At what age you should start taking care of your heart? Here's what experts have to say The team known as Ketamine for Reduction of Alcohol Relapse (Kare) has previously completed a similar concept which stated that individuals with alcohol disorders given ketamine and therapy together were more likely to remain abstinent than those given a placebo. Team lead, Prof Celia Morgan said that people with alcohol problems can find difficulty in engaging with psychological interventions which Ketamine would help. Watch | All alcohol beverages increase cancer risk, study confirms The new trial will take place at seven NHS units in the UK and is expected to test 280 patients with severe alcohol disorders. Participants will be divided into two groups. The first group will be given a 0.01 mg/kg dose of Ketamine and the other group will have 0.08 mg/kg with seven psychological therapy sessions for each group for three to six months. Morgan said that it will provide proof for their concept study. Their alcohol intakes will be measured through self-report, smartphone-mounted breathalysers and wearable devices. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Researchers say Ketamine with psychological therapies will help treat alcoholism, trial underway 

Japan is paying people to encourage them to add a kid to their family in an attempt to boost its low and decreasing birth rate for some time. A 420,000 yen Childbirth and Childcare Lump-Sum Grant is now being given to new parents in Japan following the birth of their child. Watch this to know more.

Japan is paying people to have babies

To honour five men who as teenagers were wrongfully convicted and spent years in prison over the rape of a jogger in 1989, New York City is naming a gate in Central Park after them.&nbsp;

Five Black men--including Yusef Salaam, Antron McCray, and Kevin Richardson, who were 15 at the time, Korey Wise, then 16 and Raymond Santana, then 14--&nbsp;spend 13 years in prison until their convictions were overturned in 2002.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lockerbie-bombing-suspect-appears-in-court-prosecution-seeks-life-in-prison-542505">Also read |&nbsp;Lockerbie bombing suspect appears in court, prosecution seeks life in prison</a>

The city's park design was approved on Monday (Dec 12). The gate will be inscribed with "Gate of the Exonerated."&nbsp;

Sharonne Salaam, Salaam's mother said that the inscription will serve as a reminder of the difficulties wrongfully convicted people face when they try to rebuild their lives after being freed.&nbsp;

She added that this will be the first of its kind in the United States and will speak to the world about the idea of exoneration.&nbsp;

City's mayor Eric Addams called the approval a "moment of truth and reconciliation for New York City."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nyc-is-hiring-apply-if-your-dream-job-is-to-become-rat-czar-and-you-have-general-aura-of-badassery-539550">Also read |&nbsp;NYC is hiring! Apply if your dream job is to become a rat czar, have 'general aura of badassery'</a>

Addams in a statement said, "The Gate of the Exonerated symbolizes the resiliency of the Exonerated Five and all those who have been wrongfully convicted and serves as a lasting reminder of the grave miscarriage of justice that took place more than three decades ago."

Several other entrances to the park have&nbsp;been labelled to reflect groups of people in the city including, Arstians's Gate, Scholars' Gate and Stranger's Gate.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

To honour five men who as teenagers were wrongfully convicted and spent years in prison over the rape of a jogger in 1989, New York City is naming a gate in Central Park after them.

To honour five men who as teenagers were wrongfully convicted and spent years in prison over the rape of a jogger in 1989, New York City is naming a gate in Central Park after them. Five Black men--including Yusef Salaam, Antron McCray, and Kevin Richardson, who were 15 at the time, Korey Wise, then 16 and Raymond Santana, then 14-- spend 13 years in prison until their convictions were overturned in 2002. Also read | Lockerbie bombing suspect appears in court, prosecution seeks life in prison The city's park design was approved on Monday (Dec 12). The gate will be inscribed with "Gate of the Exonerated." Sharonne Salaam, Salaam's mother said that the inscription will serve as a reminder of the difficulties wrongfully convicted people face when they try to rebuild their lives after being freed. She added that this will be the first of its kind in the United States and will speak to the world about the idea of exoneration. City's mayor Eric Addams called the approval a "moment of truth and reconciliation for New York City." Also read | NYC is hiring! Apply if your dream job is to become a rat czar, have 'general aura of badassery' Addams in a statement said, "The Gate of the Exonerated symbolizes the resiliency of the Exonerated Five and all those who have been wrongfully convicted and serves as a lasting reminder of the grave miscarriage of justice that took place more than three decades ago." Several other entrances to the park have been labelled to reflect groups of people in the city including, Arstians's Gate, Scholars' Gate and Stranger's Gate. (With inputs from agencies)

NYC to name Central Park gate to honour five teens wrongfully convicted of 1989 rape

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing a fresh revolt within the Conservative party over his tax plans in the budget, months after the Indian-origin Tory leader took over the reins of Britain.

UK PM Rishi Sunak in trouble amid a fresh wave of revolt within the conservative party?

There is a new infection that is killing children in the United Kingdom called Strep-A. A bacterial infection, Strep-A can be found in the throat or the skin. Watch this to know more.

A new infection called Strep-A is spreading in the UK

Uber Technologies Inc. has suffered another data breach, with hackers sharing information of over 77,000 employees.

The news was confirmed by Teqtivity, an IT asset-managing firm, which manages and tracks information from phones and laptops.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-fines-uber-14-million-for-misleading-on-fares-and-cancellation-fees-540914">Also read |&nbsp;Australian court fines Uber $14 million for misleading estimated fares and cancellation fees threat</a>

The data leak includes device information such as serial numbers and the user's full information such as full name, email address and location, my broadband reported.&nbsp;

Carissa Simons, Uber spokesperson said, "We believe these files are related to an incident at a third-party vendor and are unrelated to our security incident in September."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Uber fined for overstating fare estimates on rides

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-uber-fined-for-overstating-fare-estimates-on-rides-541042/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to a report by Bleeping Computer, the email addresses and other source code associated with mobile used by Uber and Uber eats has been hacked.&nbsp;

Simons added that as per Uber's initial review the code is not owned by the company.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uber-eats-will-pay-10-million-for-listing-chicago-restaurants-without-permission-540538">Also read |&nbsp;Uber Eats will pay $10 million for listing Chicago restaurants without permission</a>

Teqtivity in its statement said that it does not collect any sensitive information like bank details or government information. It added that the hacker could get through its AWS backup server that stores the company's code and data files related to customers.&nbsp;

This is the latest breach to affect Uber. It stated that September's breach was linked to Lapsus$, an extortion gang which involved a contractor's information. In October, the company's former security chief was found guilty of hiding a massive data breach from the regulators.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Uber Technologies Inc. has suffered another data breach, with hackers sharing information of over 77,000 employees. The news was confirmed by Teqtivity, an IT asset-managing firm, which manages and tracks information from phones and laptops.

Uber Technologies Inc. has suffered another data breach, with hackers sharing information of over 77,000 employees. The news was confirmed by Teqtivity, an IT asset-managing firm, which manages and tracks information from phones and laptops. Also read | Australian court fines Uber $14 million for misleading estimated fares and cancellation fees threat The data leak includes device information such as serial numbers and the user's full information such as full name, email address and location, my broadband reported. Carissa Simons, Uber spokesperson said, "We believe these files are related to an incident at a third-party vendor and are unrelated to our security incident in September." Watch | Gravitas: Uber fined for overstating fare estimates on rides According to a report by Bleeping Computer, the email addresses and other source code associated with mobile used by Uber and Uber eats has been hacked. Simons added that as per Uber's initial review the code is not owned by the company. Also read | Uber Eats will pay $10 million for listing Chicago restaurants without permission Teqtivity in its statement said that it does not collect any sensitive information like bank details or government information. It added that the hacker could get through its AWS backup server that stores the company's code and data files related to customers. This is the latest breach to affect Uber. It stated that September's breach was linked to Lapsus$, an extortion gang which involved a contractor's information. In October, the company's former security chief was found guilty of hiding a massive data breach from the regulators. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Another data breach at Uber, details of 77,000 employees exposed: Report

Humanity has just eight days left to seal a deal to save nature from destruction at our species' hands. But, halfway into&nbsp;the historic COP15 biodiversity talks, there's no major progress.

The UN talks were touted as the "last best chance" to save Earth's species and ecosystems from humanity and the irreversible destruction it's causing.&nbsp;However, as per AFP, there has been no major progress on increased funding for conservation in developing nations or the "30 by 30" pledge to safeguard 30 per cent of land mass, and seas by 2030.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Why are plant species disappearing fast?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-why-are-plant-species-disappearing-fast-541625/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Thursday, environment ministers of the 196 members of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) take over from their delegates in Montreal, and it is hoped that negotiations will get serious.

But the chances that the talks that end on December 19 will close with an agreement for an ambitious "peace pact with nature" seems far-fetched given the state the draft is currently in.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-critical-nature-talks-open-un-chief-says-humanity-has-become-a-weapon-of-mass-destruction-540741">As critical nature talks open, UN chief says 'humanity has become a weapon of mass destruction'</a>

AFP reports that despite the many hours the 5,000 experts and delegates spent pouring over the text it remains far behind schedule, with dozens of points still awaiting discussions.

Of the 22 or 23 envisaged objectives, only five have been settled. As Alfred DeGemmis, a senior official at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) puts it "Governments are making progress, but not fast enough to prepare a clean text for the arrival of ministers."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/by-2025-funds-for-nature-conservation-must-total-384-billion-annually-unep-539083">By 2025, funds for nature conservation must total $384 billion annually: UNEP</a>

"We are seeing flashes of light at the end of the tunnel," said the head of WWF International, Marco Lambertini. He added that he had observed a "much more constructive engagement" since the talks began, however, there's still a long way to go.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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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>.

Humanity has just eight days left to seal a deal to save nature from destruction at our species' hands. But, halfway into the historic COP15 biodiversity talks, there's no major progress.

Humanity has just eight days left to seal a deal to save nature from destruction at our species' hands. But, halfway into the historic COP15 biodiversity talks, there's no major progress. The UN talks were touted as the "last best chance" to save Earth's species and ecosystems from humanity and the irreversible destruction it's causing. However, as per AFP, there has been no major progress on increased funding for conservation in developing nations or the "30 by 30" pledge to safeguard 30 per cent of land mass, and seas by 2030. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: Why are plant species disappearing fast? On Thursday, environment ministers of the 196 members of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) take over from their delegates in Montreal, and it is hoped that negotiations will get serious. But the chances that the talks that end on December 19 will close with an agreement for an ambitious "peace pact with nature" seems far-fetched given the state the draft is currently in. Also read | As critical nature talks open, UN chief says 'humanity has become a weapon of mass destruction' AFP reports that despite the many hours the 5,000 experts and delegates spent pouring over the text it remains far behind schedule, with dozens of points still awaiting discussions. Of the 22 or 23 envisaged objectives, only five have been settled. As Alfred DeGemmis, a senior official at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) puts it "Governments are making progress, but not fast enough to prepare a clean text for the arrival of ministers." Also read | By 2025, funds for nature conservation must total $384 billion annually: UNEP "We are seeing flashes of light at the end of the tunnel," said the head of WWF International, Marco Lambertini. He added that he had observed a "much more constructive engagement" since the talks began, however, there's still a long way to go. (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.

Halfway through, COP15 a.k.a humanity's 'last best chance' to save Earth has gotten nowhere

The original animatronic model used to bring big-eyed alien E.T. to life in Steven Spielberg's tear-jerker movie is up for auction in Beverly Hills, and expected to fetch an estimated $2-3 million, according to Martin J. Nolan of Julien's Auctions.

E.T. animatronic model goes up for auction, expected to fetch estimated $2-3 million

Some of the major Indian airports like Delhi and Mumbai are struggling to handle the holiday traffic. Many people have complained about missing flights due to long queues. Watch this to know more.

Chaos at Indian airports ahead of holiday season

The Nigerian army allegedly massacred children in its ongoing war efforts against the Islamic insurgents in the country's northeast, a Reuters report claimed.

The report cites more than 40 sources, including soldiers and civilians who claim to have witnessed the military killing children or to have seen corpses of children in the aftermath of army operations.

Reportedly, parents of the said children or other civilian witnesses were also slaughtered.

Watch |&nbsp;World of Africa: Nigeria's 'serious' Hunger level&nbsp;

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The children were "deleted" on army commander orders, which were based on the belief that these children were collaborating with militants in Boko Haram or its Islamic State offshoot or have "tainted" blood of insurgent fathers that would one day mould them into terrorists.

Some soldiers also said that it was a kill-or-be-killed situation, as children were used by insurgents as fighters, suicide bombers and informants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/since-2009-a-nigerian-army-run-forced-abortion-programme-has-terminated-10000-pregnancies-report-541152">Since 2009, a Nigerian army run forced abortion programme has terminated 10,000 pregnancies: Report</a>

“This is something that everyone knows. It’s not just our commanders, most other people say the same, and they heard it from the mouths of our soldiers, saying that if we let them grow up, if they’re born and they grow up, it will be with that ideology, Boko Haram’s ideology. Because their parents are Boko Haram, it’s too late and the blood has already reacted in their bodies, they will grow up that way. That’s why whoever asks them, they will say that’s why they kill,” said one soldier while talking to the news agency.

Witness reports suggest that intentional killings of children "have occurred with a blurring frequency across the region" ever since the war began 13 years back.

While the report fails to coin a set number, Reuters estimates that around 60 children were killed in just six incidents, with the most recent one in February 2021. Most of them were shot in the back as they were fleeing.

Nigerian military leaders have refuted the claims and said that the army has never targeted children. They allege that the report is part of foreign efforts to undermine the nation and its fight against insurgents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-tiktok-users-in-nigeria-fined-and-sentenced-to-whipping-for-mocking-govt-official-532026">2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official</a>

"Not in Nigeria, not in Nigeria. We’re cultural. We’re communal here. So everybody respects life. We respect families. We respect women and children. We respect every living soul," said Major General Christopher Musa, who heads the counterinsurgency campaign in the northeast.

The intentional, systematic killing of civilians during an armed conflict as per international human rights law is a war crime and a crime against humanity. Another recent Reuters report claims that the army also undertook the forced abortion of around 10,000 women since 2009.

The United States has reacted to the report with shock and said it was "deeply troubled".

In an email, to Reuters a State Department spokesperson said that the country was "pursuing further information".

Meanwhile, Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to immediately investigate the claims and said "The killing of children on the presumption that they were, or would become, terrorists, is a war crime which violates international laws."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Nigerian army allegedly massacred children in its ongoing war efforts against the Islamic insurgents in the country's northeast, a Reuters report claimed. The report cites more than 40 sources, including soldiers and civilians who claim to have witnessed the military killing children or to have seen corpses of children in the aftermath of army operations.

The Nigerian army allegedly massacred children in its ongoing war efforts against the Islamic insurgents in the country's northeast, a Reuters report claimed. The report cites more than 40 sources, including soldiers and civilians who claim to have witnessed the military killing children or to have seen corpses of children in the aftermath of army operations. Reportedly, parents of the said children or other civilian witnesses were also slaughtered. Watch | World of Africa: Nigeria's 'serious' Hunger level The children were "deleted" on army commander orders, which were based on the belief that these children were collaborating with militants in Boko Haram or its Islamic State offshoot or have "tainted" blood of insurgent fathers that would one day mould them into terrorists. Some soldiers also said that it was a kill-or-be-killed situation, as children were used by insurgents as fighters, suicide bombers and informants. Also read | Since 2009, a Nigerian army run forced abortion programme has terminated 10,000 pregnancies: Report “This is something that everyone knows. It’s not just our commanders, most other people say the same, and they heard it from the mouths of our soldiers, saying that if we let them grow up, if they’re born and they grow up, it will be with that ideology, Boko Haram’s ideology. Because their parents are Boko Haram, it’s too late and the blood has already reacted in their bodies, they will grow up that way. That’s why whoever asks them, they will say that’s why they kill,” said one soldier while talking to the news agency. Witness reports suggest that intentional killings of children "have occurred with a blurring frequency across the region" ever since the war began 13 years back. While the report fails to coin a set number, Reuters estimates that around 60 children were killed in just six incidents, with the most recent one in February 2021. Most of them were shot in the back as they were fleeing. Nigerian military leaders have refuted the claims and said that the army has never targeted children. They allege that the report is part of foreign efforts to undermine the nation and its fight against insurgents. Also read | 2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official "Not in Nigeria, not in Nigeria. We’re cultural. We’re communal here. So everybody respects life. We respect families. We respect women and children. We respect every living soul," said Major General Christopher Musa, who heads the counterinsurgency campaign in the northeast. The intentional, systematic killing of civilians during an armed conflict as per international human rights law is a war crime and a crime against humanity. Another recent Reuters report claims that the army also undertook the forced abortion of around 10,000 women since 2009. The United States has reacted to the report with shock and said it was "deeply troubled". In an email, to Reuters a State Department spokesperson said that the country was "pursuing further information". Meanwhile, Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to immediately investigate the claims and said "The killing of children on the presumption that they were, or would become, terrorists, is a war crime which violates international laws." (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.

Nigerian army participated in systematic, intentional killing of children during war: Report

An eight-year-old grey dog named Bice, an American pitbull in Ukraine is helping kids traumatised by the Russian war.&nbsp;

This is known as canine therapy, where patients interact with a dog while undergoing therapeutic treatment. This aims to provide patients with comfort, motivation and emotional support. &nbsp;

Bice arrived at the Centre for Social and Psychological Rehabilitation, located in Boyarka, waiting for the kids, the Associated Press said in a report. There were 15 kids, ranging two-year-old to 18 years old. Each kid had his/her own story. Some witnessed Russian soldiers invading their hometowns and some saw soldiers beating their loved ones.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-is-jailing-beating-up-own-soldiers-who-refuse-to-fight-in-ukraine-report-542465">Also read |&nbsp;Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report</a>

The centre has been providing regular psychological therapies for individuals who have been affected by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February.&nbsp;

Oksana Sliepora, a psychologist, for the first time used canine therapy to treat her patients. "I read a lot of literature that working with dogs, with four-legged rehabilitators, helps children reduce stress, increase stress resistance, and reduce anxiety," AP quoted her as saying.

With the kids gathered, their faces glowed as they saw Bice. For 30 minutes, the dog let everybody touch and hug him. The kids enjoyed Bice doing his tricks.&nbsp;

Soon the kids didn't seem stressed but the fear was still there. The psychologist observed that the kids were scared of loud noises, like the sounds of jets passing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-needs-gas-and-more-weapons-zelensky-tells-g7-nations-542481">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine needs gas and more weapons, Zelensky tells G7 nations</a>

Sliepora said, "Each child is psychologically traumatized in different ways."

Moscow's "special military operation" in Ukraine began in February. Millions of Ukraine were forced to flee their homes. Some were forced to fight for their country.&nbsp;

Many regions in Ukraine&nbsp;are currently facing dark and cold winters with no power after Russian attacks on energy infrastructures.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An eight-year-old grey dog named Bice, an American pitbull in Ukraine is helping kids traumatised by the Russian war. This is known as canine therapy, where patients interact with a dog while undergoing therapeutic treatment.

An eight-year-old grey dog named Bice, an American pitbull in Ukraine is helping kids traumatised by the Russian war. This is known as canine therapy, where patients interact with a dog while undergoing therapeutic treatment. This aims to provide patients with comfort, motivation and emotional support. Bice arrived at the Centre for Social and Psychological Rehabilitation, located in Boyarka, waiting for the kids, the Associated Press said in a report. There were 15 kids, ranging two-year-old to 18 years old. Each kid had his/her own story. Some witnessed Russian soldiers invading their hometowns and some saw soldiers beating their loved ones. Also read | Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report The centre has been providing regular psychological therapies for individuals who have been affected by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February. Oksana Sliepora, a psychologist, for the first time used canine therapy to treat her patients. "I read a lot of literature that working with dogs, with four-legged rehabilitators, helps children reduce stress, increase stress resistance, and reduce anxiety," AP quoted her as saying. With the kids gathered, their faces glowed as they saw Bice. For 30 minutes, the dog let everybody touch and hug him. The kids enjoyed Bice doing his tricks. Soon the kids didn't seem stressed but the fear was still there. The psychologist observed that the kids were scared of loud noises, like the sounds of jets passing. Also read | Ukraine needs gas and more weapons, Zelensky tells G7 nations Sliepora said, "Each child is psychologically traumatized in different ways." Moscow's "special military operation" in Ukraine began in February. Millions of Ukraine were forced to flee their homes. Some were forced to fight for their country. Many regions in Ukraine are currently facing dark and cold winters with no power after Russian attacks on energy infrastructures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canine therapy: How 'four-legged rehabilitator' is helping Ukrainian children traumatised by war

Workers across the UK are preparing for a strike over pay amidst an analysis report saying that 2022 has been the worst year for real wage growth.

TUC: 2022 the worst year for real wage growth in almost 50 years | UK

Torrential rain has led to overflowing of rivers in parts of Bosnia and Croatia inundating dozens of houses and roads. The heavy rainfall has prompted the authorities to warn the residents in the affected areas to evacuate their homes.

WION Climate Tracker | Bosnia: At least one person dead due to floods

Robots are a common site on the industrial production lines but now they're also increasingly in demand in the agricultural sector. An Israeli startup is offering a set of flying robots that can identify ripe fruit and harvest them.

WION Climate Tracker | Israel: Farmers using flying robots to harvest their produce

The Eastern and Northern parts of Slovakia were paralyzed after it was hit by heavy snowfall and strong winds. Cars were stranded in several areas while roads were bearing the brunt for long periods.

WION Climate Tracker: Eastern and Western part of Slovakia hit by heavy snowfall

Heavy snowfall has caused travel disruption, with delayed trains, motorway and accidents in UK. People are in critical condition amid freezing temperatures in the country.

WION Climate Tracker: UK faces freezing low temperatures

The Ukraine war is on relentlessly. Ukraine's defense minister Alexi Reznikov says Ukrainian forces will resume active counter-offensive once the ground freezes, become more solid to pass equipment.

War in Ukraine | Reznikov: Actions to resume after ground becomes firmer

According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, a teenage girl has reportedly been killed in a gun battle between Israeli troops and gunman in Janine.

WION Dispatch: 16-year-old Plaestinian killed in Jenin

With an unprecedented increase in holiday season travel, New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has reported chaotic scenes. Passengers have taken to the social media to complain about the long queues at security check, lack of proper assistance from staff, overcrowding and congestion.

WION Dispatch: Overcrowding at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport

US airforce was planning to supply Ukraine with the older version of a predator drone. The supply took time due to Pentagon's concern over sensitive technology.

US: Pentagon unsure about sending reaper drones to Ukraine

United Kingdom's Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch will be in Delhi from today as the 6th round of FTA negotiations between the UK and India begin. Both sides are working on an ambitious trade pact that aims to ease customs duties on goods.

WION Dispatch: UK, India hold sixth round of free trade agreement talks

Border tensions between India and China are escalating again. There has been yet another faceoff in Indian and Chinese troops this time. The incident has been reported in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh in the Eastern part of India.

India-China Clash: Border tensions escalate, faceoff leads to minor injuries to a few personnel

Have you heard about Comic-Con India? The comic book convention was searched in popularity in the 1990s globally, is immensely popular in India too. The first such convention was hosted in New Delhi in 2011 and has since expanded to other major cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. This year the event made a resounding comeback after two years of Covid induced closures.

Inside Comic Con India 2022: More than 10 years of Comic Con Delhi

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