Ireland and Scotland were on high alert for a violent storm set to hit them on Friday, with schools ordered to close and trains cancelled. Forecasters are warning that wind speeds can top 130 kilometers an hour when storm Eowyn hits from the Atlantic with lashing rain and snow in places.

Ireland & Scotland brace for storm Eowyn

Southport triple killer Axel Rudakubana has been handed life sentences with a minimum term of 52 years for murder. The judge says it is ‘highly likely’ that 18-year-old Axel Rudakubana will ‘never be released’. Watch this report for more details!

Southport Stabbing: British teen sentenced to 52 years in jail for murder

<p dir="ltr"><span>Ireland and Scotland were on high alert for a violent storm set to hit them on Friday, with schools ordered to close and trains cancelled.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Forecasters warned wind speeds could top 130 kilometres (80 miles) an hour when Storm Eowyn hits from the Atlantic, with lashing rain and snow in places.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>"It is going to be a damaging, dangerous, and destructive weather event," said the chair of Ireland's National Emergency Co-ordination Group, Keith Leonard.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>He warned of power outages and told people to stay indoors.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Britain was placed on general alert, with UK-governed Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland under the top-level red warning.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A government spokesman said 4.5 million people in at-risk areas would receive telephone alerts.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Ireland's meteorological office also issued a red alert for the republic.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Jennifer Gilna from Ireland's National Transport Authority said public transport would not operate during the red alerts.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Authorities in Scotland and Northern Ireland said trains and buses would be halted and schools closed.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Britain's environment agency warned of flooding in southern and central England over the coming days.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Scientists say climate change caused by humans burning fossil fuels is making storms more severe, super-charged by warmer oceans.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World: Brace for Storm Eowyn's fierce arrival from the Atlantic with winds potentially reaching km/h, bringing heavy rain and snow to affected areas.

Ireland and Scotland were on high alert for a violent storm set to hit them on Friday, with schools ordered to close and trains cancelled. Forecasters warned wind speeds could top 130 kilometres (80 miles) an hour when Storm Eowyn hits from the Atlantic, with lashing rain and snow in places. "It is going to be a damaging, dangerous, and destructive weather event," said the chair of Ireland's National Emergency Co-ordination Group, Keith Leonard. He warned of power outages and told people to stay indoors. Britain was placed on general alert, with UK-governed Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland under the top-level red warning. A government spokesman said 4.5 million people in at-risk areas would receive telephone alerts. Ireland's meteorological office also issued a red alert for the republic. Jennifer Gilna from Ireland's National Transport Authority said public transport would not operate during the red alerts. Authorities in Scotland and Northern Ireland said trains and buses would be halted and schools closed. Britain's environment agency warned of flooding in southern and central England over the coming days. Scientists say climate change caused by humans burning fossil fuels is making storms more severe, super-charged by warmer oceans. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Millions warned of imminent danger as Storm Eowyn set to batter UK

A Russian spy vessel was spotted 72 kilometres off the British Coast. The same vessel was spotted just last November near the UK.

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the nation following the tragic Southport murders. He expressed condolences and promised a thorough investigation into the incident. Watch this report for more details!

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UK PM Keir Starmer addresses nation over Southport tragedy, vows action

UK PM Keir Starmer vows action over Southport tragedy

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ukraine's capital on Thursday with a pledge to help guarantee the country’s security for a century. Watch this report for more details!

UK PM Starmer signs 100-year pact with Zelensky, visits drone exhibition

UK PM Starmer's first official visit to Kyiv since taking office

<p>A teenager who stabbed 15-year-old Elianne Andam with a kitchen knife in "white-hot anger at having been disrespected", has been found guilty of murder on Thursday (Jan 16).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hassan Sentamu, who was 17 at the time of the attack, which happened on September 27 last year, attacked Andam outside a shopping centre in Croydon, south London.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The jury at the Old Bailey reached a 10-2 majority verdict.</p>
<p>Sentamu had already admitted manslaughter and further claimed that he was not in control of his actions because of his autism, but the jury did not accept this defence.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/teenager-fatally-stabbed-on-a-bus-in-london-police-arrest-three-8624708" rel="dofollow">14-year-old fatally stabbed in London bus, police arrest three including two teens</a></strong></p>
<h2>What was the case?&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Elianne was stabbed during a meeting at the Whitgift Centre to exchange belongings with Sentamu's ex-girlfriend, who was her friend.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The teenager was carrying a knife as he was feeling "disrespected" by the group of girls the day before, who threw water at him because they did not like the way he had treated their friend, his ex-girlfriend.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/womans-body-discovered-in-car-boot-in-east-london-probe-launched-reports-776789" rel="dofollow">Woman's body discovered in car boot in east London, probe launched: Reports</a></strong></p>
<p>The jury heard that Sentamu was seeking revenge, and when Elianne snatched a bag with his belongings in, he chased her down and stabbed her multiple times.</p>
<p>Elianne suffered a fatal 12-cm-deep stab to the neck. A passing bus driver held her hand and stayed with her as she lay dying in the street.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Prosecutor Alex Chalk KC said, "He was angry on 27 September, having brooded on the insult and he took the knife to the scene to reassert dominance."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-stabbing-girl-11-woman-stabbed-at-londons-leicester-square-suspect-arrested-749545" rel="dofollow">London stabbing: Girl, 11, woman stabbed at Leicester Square; suspect arrested</a></strong></p>
<p>"He exacted vengeance on a young girl clearly running away from him and posing no threat."</p>
<p>Notably, Sentamu was diagnosed with autism disorder at the age of 14. Following this, he spent some of his teenage years in foster care.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The court said that he had a troubled and disruptive childhood, with reports of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and violent behaviour with knives.</p>
<p>Earlier also, Sentamu was warned for taking a knife to school. Moreover, while awaiting trial for Elianne's murder, he threatened to "do it again", the court heard.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: Sentamu had already admitted manslaughter, further claiming that he was not in control of his actions because of his autism, but the jury did not accept this defence. 

A teenager who stabbed 15-year-old Elianne Andam with a kitchen knife in "white-hot anger at having been disrespected", has been found guilty of murder on Thursday (Jan 16). Hassan Sentamu, who was 17 at the time of the attack, which happened on September 27 last year, attacked Andam outside a shopping centre in Croydon, south London. The jury at the Old Bailey reached a 10-2 majority verdict. Sentamu had already admitted manslaughter and further claimed that he was not in control of his actions because of his autism, but the jury did not accept this defence. Also read: 14-year-old fatally stabbed in London bus, police arrest three including two teens What was the case? Elianne was stabbed during a meeting at the Whitgift Centre to exchange belongings with Sentamu's ex-girlfriend, who was her friend. The teenager was carrying a knife as he was feeling "disrespected" by the group of girls the day before, who threw water at him because they did not like the way he had treated their friend, his ex-girlfriend. Also read: Woman's body discovered in car boot in east London, probe launched: Reports The jury heard that Sentamu was seeking revenge, and when Elianne snatched a bag with his belongings in, he chased her down and stabbed her multiple times. Elianne suffered a fatal 12-cm-deep stab to the neck. A passing bus driver held her hand and stayed with her as she lay dying in the street. Prosecutor Alex Chalk KC said, "He was angry on 27 September, having brooded on the insult and he took the knife to the scene to reassert dominance." Also read: London stabbing: Girl, 11, woman stabbed at Leicester Square; suspect arrested "He exacted vengeance on a young girl clearly running away from him and posing no threat." Notably, Sentamu was diagnosed with autism disorder at the age of 14. Following this, he spent some of his teenage years in foster care. The court said that he had a troubled and disruptive childhood, with reports of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and violent behaviour with knives. Earlier also, Sentamu was warned for taking a knife to school. Moreover, while awaiting trial for Elianne's murder, he threatened to "do it again", the court heard. (With inputs from agencies)

Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London

<p>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement on Thursday (Jan 16), pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Starmer, who is currently in Ukraine on his first official visit to Kyiv, said that the deal reflects a new partnership between the UK and Ukraine, highlighting the huge affection that exists between the two countries.</p>
<p>The wide-ranging deal encompasses cooperation in military, energy, scientific, cultural, economic, and other sectors.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144" rel="dofollow">British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?</a></strong></p>
<p>Zelensky called it a "historic day", saying that the relationship between the two countries is closer than ever.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Today is a truly historic day, our relationship is closer than ever," Zelensky told media after the signing of the deal.</p>
<p>"Our 100-year partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years &ndash; long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again," the British PM shared on X.&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Peace through strength.<br><br>I&rsquo;m in Kyiv with a simple message to the people of Ukraine:<br><br>Our 100 Year Partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years &ndash; long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again. <a href="https://t.co/sd7BghKz28">pic.twitter.com/sd7BghKz28</a></p>
&mdash; Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1879809119332475273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
<p>Following the signing of the deal, the two leaders held a joint press conference. Starmer said that the UK will be with Ukraine long after this &ldquo;terrible war&rdquo; is over and when the country is &ldquo;free and thriving once again&rdquo;.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-heard-in-kyiv-as-british-pm-starmer-visits-ukraine-8627086" rel="dofollow">Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit</a></strong></p>
<p>Pointing to the recent attacks by Russia, he said that President Vladimir Putin shows no "stomach" for wanting peace.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>UK to deliver new mobile air defence system</h2>
<p>Starmer announced that in 2025, the UK will extend more support to Ukraine than ever, saying that Britain will deliver a new mobile air defence system, designed by Britain and Denmark.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Further, Britain will continue to train Ukrainian troops. While over 50,000 troops have already been trained on British soil since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-backs-rajya-sabha-mp-priyanka-chaturvedis-post-denouncing-pakistani-grooming-gang-8604057" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Britain will play a leading part'</h2>
<p>Starmer said Britain will play a &ldquo;leading part&rdquo; when it comes to guaranteeing Ukraine&rsquo;s security without giving away any specifics.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-slams-elon-musk-for-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-uk-grooming-gang-scandal-8596082" rel="dofollow">UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts</a></strong></p>
<p><span>Starmer's visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. </span>The UK has already spent around $15 billion in support to Ukraine and has committed to providing around $3.6 billion in military aid every year.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: The wide-ranging deal between the two nations encompasses cooperation in military, energy, scientific, cultural, economic, and other sectors.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement on Thursday (Jan 16), pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations. Starmer, who is currently in Ukraine on his first official visit to Kyiv, said that the deal reflects a new partnership between the UK and Ukraine, highlighting the huge affection that exists between the two countries. The wide-ranging deal encompasses cooperation in military, energy, scientific, cultural, economic, and other sectors. Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? Zelensky called it a "historic day", saying that the relationship between the two countries is closer than ever. "Today is a truly historic day, our relationship is closer than ever," Zelensky told media after the signing of the deal. "Our 100-year partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years – long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again," the British PM shared on X. Peace through strength. I’m in Kyiv with a simple message to the people of Ukraine: Our 100 Year Partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years – long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again. pic.twitter.com/sd7BghKz28 — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) January 16, 2025 Following the signing of the deal, the two leaders held a joint press conference. Starmer said that the UK will be with Ukraine long after this “terrible war” is over and when the country is “free and thriving once again”. Also read: Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit Pointing to the recent attacks by Russia, he said that President Vladimir Putin shows no "stomach" for wanting peace. UK to deliver new mobile air defence system Starmer announced that in 2025, the UK will extend more support to Ukraine than ever, saying that Britain will deliver a new mobile air defence system, designed by Britain and Denmark. Further, Britain will continue to train Ukrainian troops. While over 50,000 troops have already been trained on British soil since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also read: Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers 'Britain will play a leading part' Starmer said Britain will play a “leading part” when it comes to guaranteeing Ukraine’s security without giving away any specifics. Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts Starmer's visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The UK has already spent around $15 billion in support to Ukraine and has committed to providing around $3.6 billion in military aid every year. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement

<p>Air raid sirens and loud blasts were heard in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (Jan 16) amid UK Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Keir+Starmer" rel="dofollow">Keir Starmer</a>'s first official visit to the warring nation, AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Ukraine's Marynskyi presidential palace echoed with loud blooms, where the two leaders were due to hold a press conference on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Reportedly, the Ukrainian air defence tried to shoot down a drone.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144" rel="dofollow">British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?</a></strong></p>
<p>Air defence systems in the centre of the city were engaging enemy targets after the air force warned of an enemy drone attack, officials in Kyiv said.</p>
<p>The drone, which was possibly a Russian decoy, was seen and heard buzzing above the Marynskyi presidential palace. Notably, the palace is not far from Zelensky's office.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, it is not clear whether the drone was downed immediately.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-slams-elon-musk-for-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-uk-grooming-gang-scandal-8596082" rel="dofollow">UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts</a></strong></p>
<p>There have been no casualties in the drone attack, according to the city officials. However, a car was damaged by falling debris in one of the districts.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Starmer's first visit to Ukraine</h2>
<p>Starmer is currently in Ukraine to sign a so-called "100-year partnership" treaty between Britain and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The pact is the formal document of the already promised economic and military support to Ukraine.</p>
<p>"Putin's ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure," Starmer said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago.</p>
<p>"Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level," he added.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-vs-starmer-x-boss-wants-king-charles-to-oust-uk-govt-amid-grooming-gangs-row-8590618" rel="dofollow"> Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row</a></strong></p>
<p>The visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office.</p>
<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to discuss essential security guarantees with its key allies like the UK ahead of the reports that Trump plans to push his country for peace talks in his second term in the White House.</p>
<p>Starner had visited Ukraine last time in 2023, when he was serving as the leader of the opposition.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: The Ukraine's Marynskyi presidential palace echoed with loud blooms, where the two leaders were due to hold a press conference on Thursday. 

Air raid sirens and loud blasts were heard in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (Jan 16) amid UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's first official visit to the warring nation, AFP reported. The Ukraine's Marynskyi presidential palace echoed with loud blooms, where the two leaders were due to hold a press conference on Thursday. Reportedly, the Ukrainian air defence tried to shoot down a drone. Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? Air defence systems in the centre of the city were engaging enemy targets after the air force warned of an enemy drone attack, officials in Kyiv said. The drone, which was possibly a Russian decoy, was seen and heard buzzing above the Marynskyi presidential palace. Notably, the palace is not far from Zelensky's office. However, it is not clear whether the drone was downed immediately. Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts There have been no casualties in the drone attack, according to the city officials. However, a car was damaged by falling debris in one of the districts. Starmer's first visit to Ukraine Starmer is currently in Ukraine to sign a so-called "100-year partnership" treaty between Britain and Ukraine. The pact is the formal document of the already promised economic and military support to Ukraine. "Putin's ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure," Starmer said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago. "Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level," he added. Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row The visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to discuss essential security guarantees with its key allies like the UK ahead of the reports that Trump plans to push his country for peace talks in his second term in the White House. Starner had visited Ukraine last time in 2023, when he was serving as the leader of the opposition. (With inputs from agencies)

Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit

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In a bid to target people smugglers in the UK, the British government is planning to create a new sanctions regime aimed at the leaders of networks that smuggle tens of thousands of people into Britain each year. The government announced that it will target people smugglers with economic sanctions as part of its efforts to stem the arrival of migrants on small boats crossing the channel.

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<p>Billionaire Elon Musk backed Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi's views on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remark on the child sexual abuse scandal in England.</p>
<p>Starmer, on Monday (Jan 6), courted controversy after he used the term "Asian" with reference to the child sexual abuse scandal in northern England by groups comprising of men who mostly belonged to Pakistani origin.</p>
<p>Chaturvedi took to her X account and wrote in a post, &ldquo;Repeat after me, they aren&rsquo;t ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?"&nbsp;</p>
<p>Musk threw his weight behind the Rajya Sabha MP and responded to her post by saying "True".</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ozjhw0-whg5rkaq-rq8afkza">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">True</p>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1877001375852212399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2><strong>Musk accuses Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice</strong></h2>
<p>Earlier, Musk had accused Starmer of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when he was the head of the country's prosecution service.</p>
<p>In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects."</p>
<p>"Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-launches-scathing-attack-on-george-soros-condemns-him-for-funding-hamas-supporting-ngos-8603398" rel="dofollow">Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK</strong></h2>
<p>For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal.</p>
<p>"Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-vs-starmer-x-boss-wants-king-charles-to-oust-uk-govt-amid-grooming-gangs-row-8590618" rel="dofollow">Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Starmer responds to allegations</strong></h2>
<p>The UK PM responding to the allegations said the ones "spreading lies" were not interested in the victims, but themselves.</p>
<p>"We have seen this playbook many times - whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said.</p>
<p>"Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves," he added.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. 

Billionaire Elon Musk backed Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi's views on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remark on the child sexual abuse scandal in England. Starmer, on Monday (Jan 6), courted controversy after he used the term "Asian" with reference to the child sexual abuse scandal in northern England by groups comprising of men who mostly belonged to Pakistani origin. Chaturvedi took to her X account and wrote in a post, “Repeat after me, they aren’t ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?" Musk threw his weight behind the Rajya Sabha MP and responded to her post by saying "True". True — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 8, 2025 Musk accuses Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice Earlier, Musk had accused Starmer of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when he was the head of the country's prosecution service. In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects." "Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added. Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men. Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. "Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X. Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row Starmer responds to allegations The UK PM responding to the allegations said the ones "spreading lies" were not interested in the victims, but themselves. "We have seen this playbook many times - whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said. "Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers

<p>The world's tallest woman, Rumeysa Gelgi, shared a glimpse of her travelling experiences, revealing the challenges she faces while flying.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With a height of 7 feet 0.7 inches (215.16 cm), Gelgi faces unique challenges during air travel and needs customised arrangements to make her travel comfortable and safe.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Guinness World Records shared a video of Gelgi, which she documented on her journey with Turkish Airlines as she travelled to the US and the UK.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abu-dhabi-creates-guinness-world-records-with-largest-fireworks-and-drone-show-on-new-year-8583036" rel="dofollow">Abu Dhabi creates Guinness world records with largest fireworks and drone show on New Year</a></strong></p>
<p>To make her travel safe and comfortable, Gelgi was assisted by airline staff to board the plane while lying flat on a stretcher.</p>
<p>Flying on a stretcher provides her back support on a flat surface. The airline removed six seats from the aircraft and installed a custom stretcher for her comfort.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Flying on a stretcher allows her to board a plane and enjoy her flight while keeping her back on a flat surface.</p>
<p>To allow Ms Gelgi to travel while lying down, Turkish Airlines removed six seats from the aircraft and installed a custom stretcher, ensuring the support and comfort she needed.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-set-two-guinness-world-records-with-25-mn-lit-diyas-and-over-1000-people-performing-aarti-together-772498" rel="dofollow">Ayodhya set two Guinness World Records with 2.5 mn lit diyas and over 1000 people performing aarti together</a></strong></p>
<p>"How does the world's tallest woman travel and visit her friends? Turkish Airlines provided Rumeysa's flight for her recent adventures to the US and UK," the video caption read by Guinness World Records.</p>
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<p>Further, to make her journey memorable, the airline's in-hour chef and crew surprised her with a chocolate cake to celebrate her first time in the clouds.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-woman-sets-guinness-world-record-by-donating-over-2600-litres-of-breastmilk-774839" rel="dofollow">Texas woman sets Guinness World Record by donating over 2,600 litres of breastmilk</a></strong></p>
<h2>Reason behind her special treatment?</h2>
<p>Gelgi in a comment, revealed that she has scoliosis, a condition characterized by severe spinal curvature, and has undergone surgery to implant two long rods and 30 screws in her spine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Due to this, flying on a stretcher is the safest and only viable option for her.</p>
<p>Her incredible height is due to a condition named Weaver syndrome. The syndrome causes accelerated growth and remarkably advanced bone age.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/teenager-enters-guinness-world-records-for-largest-feet-and-hands-761519" rel="dofollow">Teenager enters Guinness World Records for largest feet and hands</a></strong></p>
<p>Moreover, it also causes limited mobility of the joints, instability when walking, and difficulties in breathing and swallowing, according to Guinness World Records.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World, trending: With a height of 7 feet 0.7 inches, Rumeysa Gelgi faces unique challenges during air travel and needs customised arrangements to make her travel comfortable and safe. 

The world's tallest woman, Rumeysa Gelgi, shared a glimpse of her travelling experiences, revealing the challenges she faces while flying. With a height of 7 feet 0.7 inches (215.16 cm), Gelgi faces unique challenges during air travel and needs customised arrangements to make her travel comfortable and safe. Guinness World Records shared a video of Gelgi, which she documented on her journey with Turkish Airlines as she travelled to the US and the UK. Also read: Abu Dhabi creates Guinness world records with largest fireworks and drone show on New Year To make her travel safe and comfortable, Gelgi was assisted by airline staff to board the plane while lying flat on a stretcher. Flying on a stretcher provides her back support on a flat surface. The airline removed six seats from the aircraft and installed a custom stretcher for her comfort. Flying on a stretcher allows her to board a plane and enjoy her flight while keeping her back on a flat surface. To allow Ms Gelgi to travel while lying down, Turkish Airlines removed six seats from the aircraft and installed a custom stretcher, ensuring the support and comfort she needed. Also read: Ayodhya set two Guinness World Records with 2.5 mn lit diyas and over 1000 people performing aarti together "How does the world's tallest woman travel and visit her friends? Turkish Airlines provided Rumeysa's flight for her recent adventures to the US and UK," the video caption read by Guinness World Records. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Guinness World Records (@guinnessworldrecords) Further, to make her journey memorable, the airline's in-hour chef and crew surprised her with a chocolate cake to celebrate her first time in the clouds. Also read: Texas woman sets Guinness World Record by donating over 2,600 litres of breastmilk Reason behind her special treatment? Gelgi in a comment, revealed that she has scoliosis, a condition characterized by severe spinal curvature, and has undergone surgery to implant two long rods and 30 screws in her spine. Due to this, flying on a stretcher is the safest and only viable option for her. Her incredible height is due to a condition named Weaver syndrome. The syndrome causes accelerated growth and remarkably advanced bone age. Also read: Teenager enters Guinness World Records for largest feet and hands Moreover, it also causes limited mobility of the joints, instability when walking, and difficulties in breathing and swallowing, according to Guinness World Records. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: World's tallest woman Rumeysa Gelgi reveals her unique travel experience

<p>As people have begun freaking out about the potential outbreak of the respiratory infection Human Metapneumovirus (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=HMPV" rel="dofollow">HMPV</a>), the top UK virus experts have called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information on the infection, Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole said the UK authorities "need more information on the specific strain circulating" in order to accurately assess the threat to the people living in Britain.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This comes as infection cases have surged across the UK, with cold-like symptoms. According to the graphs, the numbers have doubled over the last month.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-there-no-hmpv-vaccine-despite-the-viruss-discovery-24-years-ago-8598516" rel="dofollow">Why is there no HMPV vaccine despite the virus's discovery 24 years ago?</a></strong></p>
<p>According to the latest UK surveillance data, as many as one in 20 cases of respiratory infections could be due to the HMPV infection.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"HMPV is usually detected in the winter periods but it does seem that the rates of serious infection may be higher in China than what we would expect in a normal year," said Dr Catchpole, the Chief Scientific Officer at infectious disease testing firm hVIVO.</p>
<p>"We need more information on the specific strain that is circulating to start to understand if this is the usual circulating strain or if the virus causing high infection rates in China has some differences," he added.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-hmpv-cases-rise-to-7-in-a-day-health-minister-assures-no-reason-to-worry-8597968" rel="dofollow"> India: HMPV cases rise to seven in a day; health minister says &lsquo;no reason to worry&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>Catchpole further said that it is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are coming up purely due to coinciding with high flu and Covid levels.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He further noted that while HMPV "does mutate and change over time with new strains emerging', it is 'not a virus considered to have pandemic potential".&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, multiple experts urged people not to panic as the majority of infections cause "mild, cold-like symptoms".&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, Jaya Dantas, a professor of international health at Curtin University in Australia warned, "In young children, the elderly, and those who are immune compromised, hMPV can lead to severe cases and can move to the lower respiratory tract and may lead to pneumonia."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hmpv-in-india-old-posts-on-covid-not-emergency-resurface-netizens-react-is-hmpv-like-covid-19-8596373" rel="dofollow">Old posts claiming 'COVID-19 is not a health emergency' resurface amid rising HMPV cases</a></strong></p>
<p>"We need to use a cautious and measured approach, as we know so much more since the Covid pandemic," Jaya added.</p>
<h2>Cases surge in US</h2>
<p>According to new data, the HMPV virus is also widely spreading in the US. Following this, Western specialists have urged China to be more open about an outbreak of influenza.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that less than 300 positive test results were recorded in the last week of December.</p>
<p>It said that the CDC is "monitoring" the instances in China, adding that the current cases are "not currently a cause for concern in the US.&rdquo;</p>
<p>China has said that respiratory ailments are "less severe" and "smaller in size" than they were in 2024.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: Virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole said the UK authorities "need more information on the specific strain circulating" to accurately assess the threat to the people. 

As people have begun freaking out about the potential outbreak of the respiratory infection Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), the top UK virus experts have called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information on the infection, Daily Mail reported. Virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole said the UK authorities "need more information on the specific strain circulating" in order to accurately assess the threat to the people living in Britain. This comes as infection cases have surged across the UK, with cold-like symptoms. According to the graphs, the numbers have doubled over the last month. Also read: Why is there no HMPV vaccine despite the virus's discovery 24 years ago? According to the latest UK surveillance data, as many as one in 20 cases of respiratory infections could be due to the HMPV infection. "HMPV is usually detected in the winter periods but it does seem that the rates of serious infection may be higher in China than what we would expect in a normal year," said Dr Catchpole, the Chief Scientific Officer at infectious disease testing firm hVIVO. "We need more information on the specific strain that is circulating to start to understand if this is the usual circulating strain or if the virus causing high infection rates in China has some differences," he added. Also read: India: HMPV cases rise to seven in a day; health minister says ‘no reason to worry’ Catchpole further said that it is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are coming up purely due to coinciding with high flu and Covid levels. He further noted that while HMPV "does mutate and change over time with new strains emerging', it is 'not a virus considered to have pandemic potential". Meanwhile, multiple experts urged people not to panic as the majority of infections cause "mild, cold-like symptoms". However, Jaya Dantas, a professor of international health at Curtin University in Australia warned, "In young children, the elderly, and those who are immune compromised, hMPV can lead to severe cases and can move to the lower respiratory tract and may lead to pneumonia." Also read: Old posts claiming 'COVID-19 is not a health emergency' resurface amid rising HMPV cases "We need to use a cautious and measured approach, as we know so much more since the Covid pandemic," Jaya added. Cases surge in US According to new data, the HMPV virus is also widely spreading in the US. Following this, Western specialists have urged China to be more open about an outbreak of influenza. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that less than 300 positive test results were recorded in the last week of December. It said that the CDC is "monitoring" the instances in China, adding that the current cases are "not currently a cause for concern in the US.” China has said that respiratory ailments are "less severe" and "smaller in size" than they were in 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain

The UK government is taking action to criminalize sexually explicit deepfakes, responding to increasing concerns over privacy violations and digital harm. This move aims to protect individuals from non-consensual imagery created through AI technology.

Britain to criminalize sexually explicit deepfakes amid rising concerns

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