US officials are warning that funding for Ukraine will run out this month if teh congress does not pass Joe Biden's emergency supplemental spending request.

US: Biden administration to use last of Ukraine funds

After overseeing the third test of his nation's most advanced missile, which is intended to target the U.S. mainland, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warned "more offensive actions" to counter what he called growing military threats from the United States, state media said on Tuesday.

North Korea launches missile to warn US? Kim and daughter watch long-range missile test

There are questions about the Ukrainian military's performance on the battleground. Ukraine's top spy has owned up to failure. Aleksey Danilov, the secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, has admitted that forced conscriptions have failed on the frontlines.

Gravitas: Ukraine forcing its people to fight on border

The European leaders have pledged to find a way to provide Aid to Ukraine after Hungary vetoed a $55 billion financial aid. On Friday 26 national leaders of the European Union in fact took a historic step of agreeing to start the accession negotiations of Ukraine.

European leaders pledge to find a way for Ukraine aid

A village councillor in western Ukraine throws grenades onto the floor during a council meeting, injuring 26 people. The attack occurred on Friday morning at the village council headquarters in Keretsky in the western Transcarpathian region.

Ukraine councillor throws grenades in meeting injuring 26 people

European Union (EU) member Hungary on Thursday (Dec 14) stalled an aid deal worth $54&nbsp;billion (50 billion euros) for Ukraine from the EU budget. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban put his foot down and delayed the deal until January next year.

Orban took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and shared the news, saying he had vetoed the deal.

"Summary of the nightshift: veto for the extra money to Ukraine, veto for the MFF (budget) review. We will come back to the issue next year in the European Council after proper preparation," Orban wrote on social media.

EU chief Charles Michel&nbsp;said leaders would return to the issue "early next year" after Orban's opposition.&nbsp;

"I don't want to go too much into the details because I want to work with colleagues in the days to come, in the weeks to come to prepare a summit that will take place next year, early next year," Michel said.

Orban tanking the deal came after the bloc opened membership talks for Ukraine. The war-ravaged nation has been desperate to join the EU, to consolidate the member nations in the war against Russia.

Also watch |&nbsp;Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid

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Ukraine applied for EU membership in February last year, just four days after Russia launched an offensive on Kyiv.&nbsp;

Initially, Orban had threatened to veto the plan as well but ducked out of it as other members called his bluff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-next-eu-member-kyiv-may-get-membership-lifeboat-amid-sinking-wartime-fortunes-669784">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine next EU member? Kyiv may get membership lifeboat amid sinking wartime fortunes</a>

Dutch PM Mark Rutte said the EU's other 26 leaders had agreed to send the aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

"With 26 countries we agree. There is no agreement from Hungary at the moment, but I am very confident for next year," Rutte said.

Kyiv desperately needs the money to prop up its war-torn economy, and to change the narrative that backing from its allies is waning.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, critics have accused the Hungarian leader of holding Kyiv's survival hostage in a bid to force Brussels to release billions of euros of EU funds frozen over a rule of law dispute.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

European Union (EU) member Hungary on Thursday (Dec 14) stalled an aid deal worth $54 billion (50 billion euros) for Ukraine from the EU budget. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban put his foot down and delayed the deal until January next year.

European Union (EU) member Hungary on Thursday (Dec 14) stalled an aid deal worth $54 billion (50 billion euros) for Ukraine from the EU budget. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban put his foot down and delayed the deal until January next year. Orban took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and shared the news, saying he had vetoed the deal. "Summary of the nightshift: veto for the extra money to Ukraine, veto for the MFF (budget) review. We will come back to the issue next year in the European Council after proper preparation," Orban wrote on social media. EU chief Charles Michel said leaders would return to the issue "early next year" after Orban's opposition. "I don't want to go too much into the details because I want to work with colleagues in the days to come, in the weeks to come to prepare a summit that will take place next year, early next year," Michel said. Orban tanking the deal came after the bloc opened membership talks for Ukraine. The war-ravaged nation has been desperate to join the EU, to consolidate the member nations in the war against Russia. Also watch | Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid Ukraine applied for EU membership in February last year, just four days after Russia launched an offensive on Kyiv. Initially, Orban had threatened to veto the plan as well but ducked out of it as other members called his bluff. Also read | Ukraine next EU member? Kyiv may get membership lifeboat amid sinking wartime fortunes Dutch PM Mark Rutte said the EU's other 26 leaders had agreed to send the aid to Ukraine. "With 26 countries we agree. There is no agreement from Hungary at the moment, but I am very confident for next year," Rutte said. Kyiv desperately needs the money to prop up its war-torn economy, and to change the narrative that backing from its allies is waning. Meanwhile, critics have accused the Hungarian leader of holding Kyiv's survival hostage in a bid to force Brussels to release billions of euros of EU funds frozen over a rule of law dispute.

Hungary PM blocks $54 billion EU aid to Ukraine as bloc opens membership talks

European Union leaders agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine, marking a significant political win for President Volodymyr Zelensky amid uncertainty over future of aid from the US and the collective West during its war with Russia.&nbsp;

European Council President Charles Michel announced the move Thursday (Dec 14) as EU leaders met for a summit in Brussels.

"A clear signal of hope for their people and for our continent," Michel wrote in a post on X.

The European Council president said that the&nbsp;the bloc also agreed to open accession talks with Moldova and granted candidate status to Georgia.

Also watch |&nbsp;Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid

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So far, Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orban had opposed opening the membership talks and called for the removal of the topic from the summit agenda.

<h2>Ukraine's bid to be an EU member: A Timeline</h2>

On February 28, 2022, just four days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced an offensive on Ukraine, Kyiv applied for EU membership.

On June 23, 2022, the European Council "recognised Ukraine's European perspective and granted the country candidate status", according to the 2023 Enlargement Package&nbsp;issued by the European Union.

On 8 November 2023, as part of its Enlargement Package, the Commission published its report on Ukraine, recommending to open accession negotiations.

<h2>Ukraine as potential EU member: What does it mean?</h2>

Ukraine is continuing to face hurdles in clinching funding from both the United States and the EU to support its war against Russia. Even procedural progress at this point&nbsp;— after its failed counteroffensive and Russian belligerence on the frontline&nbsp;—&nbsp;on joining the bloc will boost morale in its bid to fight off Russia’s offensive. 
 
But overall, the process to join the EU is lengthy and complicated. Croatia was the last country which joined the EU in 2013 and its accession process lasted ten years.

<h2>Why EU reopened accession negotiations with Ukraine?</h2>

In the 2023 enlargement communication, the European Commission said Ukraine had made substantial progress on addressing seven key reforms identified in 2022.

"The Commission considers that Ukraine sufficiently fulfils the criteria related to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities," the EC said.

The report found that the country had established a transparent pre-selection system for Constitutional Court judges and had reformed judicial governance bodies.

It said Ukraine had developed its track record of high-level corruption investigations and convictions, and that it had taken positive steps in a wider and systemic effort to address the influence of oligarchs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-eu-delivers-nearly-224000-shells-to-kyiv-as-part-of-ammo-plan-624845">Ukraine war: EU delivers nearly 224,000 shells to Kyiv as part of ammo plan</a>

But as recently as November 2023, Ukrainian judges have been accused of graft in a number of cases that have disputed the claims of judicial reforms in Ukraine.&nbsp;

On Nov 30,&nbsp;the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office accused four judges from the Kyiv Court of Appeal of graft totalling $35,000.&nbsp;

Corruption remains rampant in Ukraine, with lawmakers, judges and government&nbsp;officials having recently been charged. In 2022, Transparency International ranked Ukraine 116 out of 180 countries in terms of corruption.&nbsp;

European Union leaders agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine, marking a significant political win for President Volodymyr Zelensky amid uncertainty over future of aid from the US and the collective West during its war with Russia.

European Union leaders agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine, marking a significant political win for President Volodymyr Zelensky amid uncertainty over future of aid from the US and the collective West during its war with Russia. European Council President Charles Michel announced the move Thursday (Dec 14) as EU leaders met for a summit in Brussels. "A clear signal of hope for their people and for our continent," Michel wrote in a post on X. The European Council president said that the the bloc also agreed to open accession talks with Moldova and granted candidate status to Georgia. Also watch | Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid × So far, Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orban had opposed opening the membership talks and called for the removal of the topic from the summit agenda. Ukraine's bid to be an EU member: A Timeline On February 28, 2022, just four days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced an offensive on Ukraine, Kyiv applied for EU membership. On June 23, 2022, the European Council "recognised Ukraine's European perspective and granted the country candidate status", according to the 2023 Enlargement Package issued by the European Union. On 8 November 2023, as part of its Enlargement Package, the Commission published its report on Ukraine, recommending to open accession negotiations. Ukraine as potential EU member: What does it mean? Ukraine is continuing to face hurdles in clinching funding from both the United States and the EU to support its war against Russia. Even procedural progress at this point — after its failed counteroffensive and Russian belligerence on the frontline — on joining the bloc will boost morale in its bid to fight off Russia’s offensive. But overall, the process to join the EU is lengthy and complicated. Croatia was the last country which joined the EU in 2013 and its accession process lasted ten years. Why EU reopened accession negotiations with Ukraine? In the 2023 enlargement communication, the European Commission said Ukraine had made substantial progress on addressing seven key reforms identified in 2022. "The Commission considers that Ukraine sufficiently fulfils the criteria related to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities," the EC said. The report found that the country had established a transparent pre-selection system for Constitutional Court judges and had reformed judicial governance bodies. It said Ukraine had developed its track record of high-level corruption investigations and convictions, and that it had taken positive steps in a wider and systemic effort to address the influence of oligarchs. Also read | Ukraine war: EU delivers nearly 224,000 shells to Kyiv as part of ammo plan But as recently as November 2023, Ukrainian judges have been accused of graft in a number of cases that have disputed the claims of judicial reforms in Ukraine. On Nov 30, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office accused four judges from the Kyiv Court of Appeal of graft totalling $35,000. Corruption remains rampant in Ukraine, with lawmakers, judges and government officials having recently been charged. In 2022, Transparency International ranked Ukraine 116 out of 180 countries in terms of corruption.

Ukraine next EU member? Kyiv may get membership lifeboat amid sinking wartime fortunes

The EU has agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine. Hungarian PM Viktor Orban decided to abstain from the vote, allowing the EU to come to a unanimous decision. While Ukraine may seem a step closer to becoming an EU member, will it really be able to do that with Hungary's opposition?

Gravitas | Is Ukraine's EU Membership bid an eyewash?

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

A local deputy brought grenades to the meeting of the village council and detonated them in Ukraine's western Zakarpattia region on Friday (Dec&nbsp;15). The national police said that at least 26 people were injured in the incident.

As per a police statement shared on Telegram messenger, the grenades were detonated during the ongoing council's session.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-unveils-ambitious-win-2030-plan-aims-for-chip-manufacturing-ai-growth-669859">Ukraine unveils ambitious "Win 2030" plan: Aims for chip manufacturing &amp; AI growth</a>

"26 people were injured, six of them in serious condition," said police. A video was also published by the police on Telegram in which the deputy is seen entering the room and taking out the grenades from his pocket and throwing them towards people.

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BREAKING: A Ukraine Deputy detonates a grenade at a council meeting in Zakarpattia region. One person is dead and 26 are injured. 
 
Ukraine is in chaos. <a href="https://t.co/Iyv4cnSsoX">pic.twitter.com/Iyv4cnSsoX</a>
— Fiorella Isabel (@FiorellaIsabelM) <a href="https://twitter.com/FiorellaIsabelM/status/1735642345591193752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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At the moment, the moment of the explosion was captured as people - who were attending the council's session - ran in panic.

<h2>Six remain in critical condition</h2>

As reported by Reuters, the incident took place inside the Keretsky Village Council building in Zakarpattia. Earlier, the police said that the deputy had lost his life, however, later in the statement clarified that the resuscitation measures were being carried out by the doctors.&nbsp;

"Today at 11.37, line 102 received a message that one of the deputies exploded grenades in the building of Keretsky Council of Mukachevo district during a session meeting," said the National Police, on its Facebook page, it reported.

Watch:&nbsp;EU to open membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova | Hungary blocks EU aid&nbsp;

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"According to preliminary information, as a result of the explosion, one person, the fuse itself, was killed, and 11 more people were injured," the National Police stated and later updated that 26 people were injured, out of which six were in critical condition.&nbsp;

It remained unclear how many grenades the council deputy detonated or what were the motives of the deputy.

From time to time, accidents with explosives take place in Ukraine which has been fighting full-scale aggression since February 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. A local deputy brought grenades to the meeting of the village council and detonated them in Ukraine's western Zakarpattia region on Friday (Dec 15).

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. A local deputy brought grenades to the meeting of the village council and detonated them in Ukraine's western Zakarpattia region on Friday (Dec 15). The national police said that at least 26 people were injured in the incident. As per a police statement shared on Telegram messenger, the grenades were detonated during the ongoing council's session. Also read: Ukraine unveils ambitious "Win 2030" plan: Aims for chip manufacturing & AI growth "26 people were injured, six of them in serious condition," said police. A video was also published by the police on Telegram in which the deputy is seen entering the room and taking out the grenades from his pocket and throwing them towards people. BREAKING: A Ukraine Deputy detonates a grenade at a council meeting in Zakarpattia region. One person is dead and 26 are injured. Ukraine is in chaos. pic.twitter.com/Iyv4cnSsoX — Fiorella Isabel (@FiorellaIsabelM) December 15, 2023 × At the moment, the moment of the explosion was captured as people - who were attending the council's session - ran in panic. Six remain in critical condition As reported by Reuters, the incident took place inside the Keretsky Village Council building in Zakarpattia. Earlier, the police said that the deputy had lost his life, however, later in the statement clarified that the resuscitation measures were being carried out by the doctors. "Today at 11.37, line 102 received a message that one of the deputies exploded grenades in the building of Keretsky Council of Mukachevo district during a session meeting," said the National Police, on its Facebook page, it reported. Watch: EU to open membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova | Hungary blocks EU aid "According to preliminary information, as a result of the explosion, one person, the fuse itself, was killed, and 11 more people were injured," the National Police stated and later updated that 26 people were injured, out of which six were in critical condition. It remained unclear how many grenades the council deputy detonated or what were the motives of the deputy. From time to time, accidents with explosives take place in Ukraine which has been fighting full-scale aggression since February 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine village council deputy detonates grenades in meet, 26 injured: Video

Ukraine unveils its ambitious blueprint for victory, not just on the battlefield, but in cutting-edge technology. In the midst of a 21-month conflict with Russia, the nation introduces 'Win 2030,' a strategic plan that aims to propel Ukraine to the forefront of high-tech industries.

Minister Fedorov pledges policy changes to propel tech growth

In a move to propel itself into the forefront of high-tech industries, Ukraine has announced its ambitious Win 2030 plan, outlining intentions to establish a domestic chipmaking industry and bolster artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, the plan was proposed amid a 21-month conflict with Russia, by Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Deputy Valeria Ionan.<o:p></o:p>

At a presentation in central Kyiv attended by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, the significance of technological advancement for achieving victory was highlighted. Shmyhal emphasised, "Without innovation, I am deeply convinced our victory is possible, but will take much longer."<o:p></o:p>

Fedorov, also a deputy prime minister and an ally of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, pledged policy changes to foster tech growth. Highlighting regulatory improvements, he cited over 20 amended laws simplifying drone imports and manufacturing. Ukraine has already implemented AI in military operations, using it for kamikaze drones and facial recognition of Russian soldiers.<o:p></o:p>

Deputy Valeria Ionan outlined Ukraine's aspirations to rank among the top 15 countries globally in microelectronics and the top 30 in unmanned vehicles. Expressing confidence, she stated, "Ukraine rather highly assesses its chances to make its contribution to the European Union's ambitious goal to get 20 per cent of the global market share in semiconductors by 2030.”<o:p></o:p>

The most ambitious aspect of the plan involves Ukraine's dream of establishing a chip factory, along with "fabless" enterprises that do not manufacture their own semiconductors. The estimated cost of a facility capable of producing 50,000 chips annually is between $5-10 billion, with an expected start date in 2025 and a three-year timeline to reach manufacturing capacity. Acknowledging the financial challenges, Fedorov admitted that government funds were scarce.<o:p></o:p>

Fedorov, speaking to reporters, revealed that the ministry would provide non-monetary support initially and seek private capital for these ventures. While admitting the necessity of state assistance for a chip factory, he emphasised the need for private initiative while acknowledging that state support would play a crucial role.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In a move to propel itself into the forefront of high-tech industries, Ukraine has announced its ambitious Win 2030 plan, outlining intentions to establish a domestic chipmaking industry and bolster artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.

In a move to propel itself into the forefront of high-tech industries, Ukraine has announced its ambitious Win 2030 plan, outlining intentions to establish a domestic chipmaking industry and bolster artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. According to Reuters, the plan was proposed amid a 21-month conflict with Russia, by Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Deputy Valeria Ionan. At a presentation in central Kyiv attended by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, the significance of technological advancement for achieving victory was highlighted. Shmyhal emphasised, "Without innovation, I am deeply convinced our victory is possible, but will take much longer." Fedorov, also a deputy prime minister and an ally of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, pledged policy changes to foster tech growth. Highlighting regulatory improvements, he cited over 20 amended laws simplifying drone imports and manufacturing. Ukraine has already implemented AI in military operations, using it for kamikaze drones and facial recognition of Russian soldiers. Deputy Valeria Ionan outlined Ukraine's aspirations to rank among the top 15 countries globally in microelectronics and the top 30 in unmanned vehicles. Expressing confidence, she stated, "Ukraine rather highly assesses its chances to make its contribution to the European Union's ambitious goal to get 20 per cent of the global market share in semiconductors by 2030.” The most ambitious aspect of the plan involves Ukraine's dream of establishing a chip factory, along with "fabless" enterprises that do not manufacture their own semiconductors. The estimated cost of a facility capable of producing 50,000 chips annually is between $5-10 billion, with an expected start date in 2025 and a three-year timeline to reach manufacturing capacity. Acknowledging the financial challenges, Fedorov admitted that government funds were scarce. Fedorov, speaking to reporters, revealed that the ministry would provide non-monetary support initially and seek private capital for these ventures. While admitting the necessity of state assistance for a chip factory, he emphasised the need for private initiative while acknowledging that state support would play a crucial role. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine unveils ambitious "Win 2030" plan: Aims for chip manufacturing & AI growth

Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban has said that Ukraine was in no way ready to join the bloc. He has made it clear that he will block a proposal to start negotiations on Ukraine's EU membership at a summit in Brussels. James Jackson, journalist, and political analyst in Germany & CE Europe joins us to discuss.

EU to open membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova | Hungary blocks EU aid | World News | WION

Surging egg prices, against a backdrop of high inflation and economic sanctions, are worrying the Russian authorities, especially as eggs are a symbolic and central ingredient of the festive season.

Worry in Russia as egg prices soar ahead of festive season

European Union calls Hungary OM Orban's bluff, sidesteps him to open membership talks with Ukraine

The United Nations says Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has driven more than 5 million people from their homes, many of them older adults. Now, some are finding safe places to live thanks to the American charity 'to Ukraine with love' and a community called 'miracle village.'

Russia's invasion drives Ukrainians out of homes, American charity comes to rescue

<o:p></o:p>WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round up of global stories from the world of business and economy.<o:p></o:p>

95pc of the Indian population remains uninsured: National Insurance Academy<o:p></o:p>

Based on data released on Thursday, the National Insurance Academy's most recent report has revealed a grim fact: 95 per cent of India's 144 crore people do not have health insurance.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/95pc-of-the-indian-population-remains-uninsured-national-insurance-academy-669845">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Ukraine unveils ambitious "Win 2030" plan: Aims for chip manufacturing &amp; AI growth<o:p></o:p>

Ukraine has unveiled its ambitious Win 2030 plan, which outlines plans to build a domestic chipmaking industry and improve artificial intelligence (AI) skills, in an effort to push itself into the forefront of high-tech businesses.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-unveils-ambitious-win-2030-plan-aims-for-chip-manufacturing-ai-growth-669859">Read more here </a><o:p></o:p>

Alphabet's Gemini AI sparks market surge, paving the way for Google's technological leap<o:p></o:p>

Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, has seen a tremendous increase in market value, rising by an astounding $87 billion in a single day. The surge came after an impressive display of Alphabet's language model, Gemini, an artificial intelligence (AI) breakthrough that has been compared to ChatGPT by OpenAI.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/alphabets-gemini-ai-sparks-market-surge-paving-the-way-for-googles-technological-leap-669862">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Israel-Hamas conflict takes toll on neighbouring economies, UN study warns of $10 bn impact<o:p></o:p>

According to a new U.N. report, the economic fallout from the Israel-Hamas fighting in Gaza is expected to have a significant impact on the economies of nearby Arab countries.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-hamas-conflict-takes-toll-on-neighbouring-economies-un-study-warns-of-10-bn-impact-669871">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Indian markets surge to record highs as Federal Reserve boosts rate cut expectations<o:p></o:p>

Thursday saw Indian benchmark indexes hit unprecedented levels as they followed a global upswing stoked by newexpectations from the Federal Reserve.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-markets-surge-to-record-highs-as-federal-reserve-boosts-rate-cut-expectations-669899">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Austria challenges Ukrainian blacklist to safeguard business ties with Russia<o:p></o:p>

In a diplomatic strategy, Austria is supporting fresh European Union sanctions against Russia in exchange for having Raiffeisen Bank International, the biggest Western bank in Russia, taken off a Ukrainian blacklist.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://wionews.com/business-economy/austria-challenges-ukrainian-blacklist-to-safeguard-business-ties-with-russia-669912">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

COP28 Breakthrough: World unites to shift from fossil fuels in historic climate accord<o:p></o:p>

196 nations came to a historic agreement at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai to move away from fossil fuels.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/cop28-breakthrough-world-unites-to-shift-from-fossil-fuels-in-historic-climate-accord-669924">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Global oil demand faces sharp slowdown as economic woes bite, IEA warns<o:p></o:p>

Citing economic weakness in key nations, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned a major slowdown in the development of the world's oil demand.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-oil-demand-faces-sharp-slowdown-as-economic-woes-bite-iea-warns-669940">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round up of global stories from the world of business and economy. 95pc of the Indian population remains uninsured: National Insurance Academy Based on data released on Thursday, the National Insurance Academy's most recent report has revealed a grim fact: 95 per cent of India's 144 crore people do not have health insurance.

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round up of global stories from the world of business and economy. 95pc of the Indian population remains uninsured: National Insurance Academy Based on data released on Thursday, the National Insurance Academy's most recent report has revealed a grim fact: 95 per cent of India's 144 crore people do not have health insurance. Read more here Ukraine unveils ambitious "Win 2030" plan: Aims for chip manufacturing & AI growth Ukraine has unveiled its ambitious Win 2030 plan, which outlines plans to build a domestic chipmaking industry and improve artificial intelligence (AI) skills, in an effort to push itself into the forefront of high-tech businesses. Read more here Alphabet's Gemini AI sparks market surge, paving the way for Google's technological leap Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, has seen a tremendous increase in market value, rising by an astounding $87 billion in a single day. The surge came after an impressive display of Alphabet's language model, Gemini, an artificial intelligence (AI) breakthrough that has been compared to ChatGPT by OpenAI. Read more here Israel-Hamas conflict takes toll on neighbouring economies, UN study warns of $10 bn impact According to a new U.N. report, the economic fallout from the Israel-Hamas fighting in Gaza is expected to have a significant impact on the economies of nearby Arab countries. Read more here Indian markets surge to record highs as Federal Reserve boosts rate cut expectations Thursday saw Indian benchmark indexes hit unprecedented levels as they followed a global upswing stoked by newexpectations from the Federal Reserve. Read more here Austria challenges Ukrainian blacklist to safeguard business ties with Russia In a diplomatic strategy, Austria is supporting fresh European Union sanctions against Russia in exchange for having Raiffeisen Bank International, the biggest Western bank in Russia, taken off a Ukrainian blacklist. Read more here COP28 Breakthrough: World unites to shift from fossil fuels in historic climate accord 196 nations came to a historic agreement at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai to move away from fossil fuels. Read more here Global oil demand faces sharp slowdown as economic woes bite, IEA warns Citing economic weakness in key nations, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned a major slowdown in the development of the world's oil demand. Read more here WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WION Business Wrap | Ukraine’s ambitious “Win 2030” plan, Alphabet’s market surge, India’s uninsured & more

Russian President Vladamir Putin held his end-of-year press conference today. He spoke about a wide range of issues spanning from Russia's objectives in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War, the current state of diplomatic relations with western countries, all the way to his country's financial health and a forecast of the Russian economy.

Gravitas | Putin asserts Russian Sovereignty & Ukraine War goals in annual presser

Russia’s goals in ukraine are unchanged, with no peace until they’re achieved. The russian president holds first end-of-year news conference since the ukraine war began.

Russian president organises annual news conference in Russia

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban had no reason to block Ukraine's EU membership.

President Volodymyr Zelensky says Hungary has no reason to block Ukraine's EU membership

resident Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban had no reason to block Ukraine's EU membership. But why is Hungary blocking Ukraine's EU membership bid? Watch this video to find out.

Why is Hungary blocking Ukraine's EU membership bid?

Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid

At least one civilian has been killed and 11 others were injured after Russia overnight launched 42 drones and six missiles at Ukraine’s southern regions, said the Ukrainian military, on Thursday (Dec 14). Kyiv’s forces claimed to have shot down 41 out of 42 drones during the attack on the southern Ukrainian region of Odesa. &nbsp;

The attack also comes a day after 10 ballistic&nbsp;missiles were fired at the Ukrainian capital, according to the Ukrainian military. Kyiv’s mayor said at least 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus.

<h2>Drone and missile attacks in southern Ukraine</h2>

“The defenders of the sky managed to shoot down 41 out of 42 Shahed-136/131 attack drones. The vast majority of them were shot down in Odesa region,” said the Ukrainian Air Force, in a post on Telegram.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-missile-attack-rocks-kyiv-cyberattack-leaves-millions-without-internet-669098">Russia-Ukraine war: Missile attack rocks Kyiv, cyberattack leaves millions without internet</a>

According to the Ukrainian forces, Russia also launched six S-300 anti-aircraft-guided missiles from the occupied Kherson region.&nbsp;

The wreckage from the downed drones damaged more than a dozen buildings in the southern city of Odesa and 11 civilians, including three children, were injured, said the Ukrainian military.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the neighbouring Kherson region, one person was killed following an overnight missile strike, reported Reuters citing emergency services. A medical facility, private house and garage were also destroyed, according to the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia’s attack on Kyiv</h2>

At least 53 people, including six children, were injured after the Ukrainian capital came under attack, on Wednesday (Dec 13), according to officials in Kyiv.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown</a>

Ukrainian air defence systems downed all 10 ballistic missiles that targeted the capital at about 3:00 am (local time), said Ukraine’s air force on Telegram.&nbsp;

In a social media post, the Ukrainian police said some 18 people had been hospitalised after the attack.&nbsp;

The missile strike also caused major damage to the infrastructure in Kyiv, including homes and a children’s hospital. According to Reuters, windows of residential apartment blocks were blown out and frightened residents streamed out onto the street to assess the damage.&nbsp;

The debris from the missiles also reportedly blew a large crater in the ground and destroyed parked cars.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-has-cost-russia-nearly-90-of-its-troops-claims-us-intelligence-report-669163">Ukraine war has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report</a>

“There was no air raid siren. At around 4 a.m. (0200 GMT), I heard an explosion. We fled to the corridor, (the explosion wave) threw me into the doors,” Olena Ustinova, 45, a local administration clerk, told Reuters.&nbsp;

“I regained consciousness and started to shake the doors but they were blocked. I shouted for help from my balcony and emergency workers came to help me.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

At least one civilian has been killed and 11 others were injured after Russia overnight launched 42 drones and six missiles at Ukraine’s southern regions, said the Ukrainian military, on Thursday (Dec 14).

At least one civilian has been killed and 11 others were injured after Russia overnight launched 42 drones and six missiles at Ukraine’s southern regions, said the Ukrainian military, on Thursday (Dec 14). Kyiv’s forces claimed to have shot down 41 out of 42 drones during the attack on the southern Ukrainian region of Odesa. The attack also comes a day after 10 ballistic missiles were fired at the Ukrainian capital, according to the Ukrainian military. Kyiv’s mayor said at least 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus. Drone and missile attacks in southern Ukraine “The defenders of the sky managed to shoot down 41 out of 42 Shahed-136/131 attack drones. The vast majority of them were shot down in Odesa region,” said the Ukrainian Air Force, in a post on Telegram. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Missile attack rocks Kyiv, cyberattack leaves millions without internet According to the Ukrainian forces, Russia also launched six S-300 anti-aircraft-guided missiles from the occupied Kherson region. The wreckage from the downed drones damaged more than a dozen buildings in the southern city of Odesa and 11 civilians, including three children, were injured, said the Ukrainian military. Meanwhile, in the neighbouring Kherson region, one person was killed following an overnight missile strike, reported Reuters citing emergency services. A medical facility, private house and garage were also destroyed, according to the news agency. Russia’s attack on Kyiv At least 53 people, including six children, were injured after the Ukrainian capital came under attack, on Wednesday (Dec 13), according to officials in Kyiv. ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown Ukrainian air defence systems downed all 10 ballistic missiles that targeted the capital at about 3:00 am (local time), said Ukraine’s air force on Telegram. In a social media post, the Ukrainian police said some 18 people had been hospitalised after the attack. The missile strike also caused major damage to the infrastructure in Kyiv, including homes and a children’s hospital. According to Reuters, windows of residential apartment blocks were blown out and frightened residents streamed out onto the street to assess the damage. The debris from the missiles also reportedly blew a large crater in the ground and destroyed parked cars. ALSO READ | Ukraine war has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report “There was no air raid siren. At around 4 a.m. (0200 GMT), I heard an explosion. We fled to the corridor, (the explosion wave) threw me into the doors,” Olena Ustinova, 45, a local administration clerk, told Reuters. “I regained consciousness and started to shake the doors but they were blocked. I shouted for help from my balcony and emergency workers came to help me.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

At least one civilian killed, 11 injured after Russian drone, missile attacks in southern Ukraine: Kyiv

President Zelensky's Washington visit to secure aid for Ukraine has been overshadowed by a U.S. domestic policy dispute. Republicans are demanding border policy changes in exchange for support for Ukraine aid, a stance that Democrats find unreasonable. As the White House warns of the exhaustion of previous aid, the future of American support for Ukraine hangs in the balance.

Gravitas | Border Policy Dispute in U.S. Congress Impacts Ukraine Aid During Zelensky's Visit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived on Tuesday in US Congress to press increasingly reluctant Republicans to back his country's fight against Russian invasion with renewed US military aid but was unable to do so.

Zelensky in US | US President Joe Biden vows that he will not walk away from Ukraine

Zelensky in US: Russia scoffs at impact of US support; Biden says, 'Will not walk away from Ukraine'

Zelensky in US: Ukraine President Zelesnky unable to win over US Congress as he pleads for aid

President Joe Biden warned Republicans on Tuesday that they would give Russia a "Christmas gift" if they failed to provide additional military aid to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose meeting with a top US lawmaker concluded without a commitment for more support.

Russia-Ukraine war: "I will not walk away from the Ukraine," vows US President Joe Biden

Ukrainian capital Kyiv was rocked by multiple explosions early Wednesday (Dec 13) as it came under a Russian missile attack.

Kyiv’s mayor said 53&nbsp;people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus.

"According to medics, seven people have already been injured as a result of the enemy attack on Kyiv. Five were hospitalised in the capital's medical institutions," Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on social media.

The mayor also said that the debris from intercepted missiles caused injuries to three people and damaged buildings.

Earlier on Monday, another Russian missile attack rendered more than 100 homes in Kyiv powerless.&nbsp;The attack came as Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington DC and had a meeting with US President Joe Biden.

<h2>Ukraine’s top network operator targeted</h2>

Ukraine was also hit by a major cyberattack that reportedly disrupted its main mobile network, Kyivstar and its largest bank, PrivatBank.

Kyivstar is estimated to have 24 million users and a million home internet users, all of whom were left without internet access. Ukraine said its agencies were investigating the attack, without giving any further details.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Also read:&nbsp;Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>

PrivatBank also reported some of its cash machines were not working and might be "unstable" or "have no connection".

Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said in a statement that Russian hackers could be behind this powerful attack.

“One of the versions currently being investigated by SBU investigators is that the Russian special services may be behind this hacker attack,” it said.

<h2>Zelensky on ceding territory to Russia</h2>

Amid calls to strike peace with Russia by ceding the occupied territories, Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12) said the idea was “insane.”

Reacting angrily to the question by the press, Zelensky said, “Why would Ukraine give up its territory? That’s insane actually. We have women and children living there. It’s a matter of families and their history. We are not going to give up territories to terrorists.”

Watch:&nbsp;Zelensky arrives in us congress to push for military aid to Ukraine

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He added that allies needed to send a “strong signal of our unity” to Russia.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian capital Kyiv was rocked by multiple explosions early Wednesday (Dec 13) as it came under a Russian missile attack. Kyiv’s mayor said 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus.

Ukrainian capital Kyiv was rocked by multiple explosions early Wednesday (Dec 13) as it came under a Russian missile attack. Kyiv’s mayor said 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus. "According to medics, seven people have already been injured as a result of the enemy attack on Kyiv. Five were hospitalised in the capital's medical institutions," Mayor Vitali Klitschko posted on social media. The mayor also said that the debris from intercepted missiles caused injuries to three people and damaged buildings. Earlier on Monday, another Russian missile attack rendered more than 100 homes in Kyiv powerless. The attack came as Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington DC and had a meeting with US President Joe Biden. Ukraine’s top network operator targeted Ukraine was also hit by a major cyberattack that reportedly disrupted its main mobile network, Kyivstar and its largest bank, PrivatBank. Kyivstar is estimated to have 24 million users and a million home internet users, all of whom were left without internet access. Ukraine said its agencies were investigating the attack, without giving any further details. Also read: Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown PrivatBank also reported some of its cash machines were not working and might be "unstable" or "have no connection". Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said in a statement that Russian hackers could be behind this powerful attack. “One of the versions currently being investigated by SBU investigators is that the Russian special services may be behind this hacker attack,” it said. Zelensky on ceding territory to Russia Amid calls to strike peace with Russia by ceding the occupied territories, Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12) said the idea was “insane.” Reacting angrily to the question by the press, Zelensky said, “Why would Ukraine give up its territory? That’s insane actually. We have women and children living there. It’s a matter of families and their history. We are not going to give up territories to terrorists.” Watch: Zelensky arrives in us congress to push for military aid to Ukraine × He added that allies needed to send a “strong signal of our unity” to Russia. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Missile attack rocks Kyiv, cyberattack leaves millions without internet

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States. The report also comes as the Ukrainian president is in the midst of a visit to Washington and made a last-ditch plea for more military aid to US lawmakers on Capitol Hill.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia suffers heavy losses</h2>

A report by Reuters citing a source familiar with the intelligence, on Tuesday (Dec 12) said that Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with 360,000 personnel.&nbsp;

Since then, according to the report at least 315,000 Russian troops, or about 87 per cent of the total number of troops have been killed or injured.&nbsp;

The report has attributed this staggering loss to the relaxed recruitment standards for deployment in Ukraine, the source told Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>

“The scale of losses has forced Russia to take extraordinary measures to sustain its ability to fight. Russia declared a partial mobilization of 300,000 personnel in late 2022, and has relaxed standards to allow recruitment of convicts and older civilians,” the source told the news agency.&nbsp;

However, these losses have not stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin who is determined to push forward as the war approaches its second anniversary early next year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has warned American lawmakers about handing a victory to Russia and reaffirmed support for the war-torn country.&nbsp;

So far, the US has sent more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine, and Republicans are sceptical about sending more aid to Kyiv.&nbsp;

“The idea that Ukraine was going to throw Russia back to the 1991 borders was preposterous,” JD Vance, a Republican senator from the US state of Ohio said on CNN’s State of the Union over the weekend, suggesting that Kyiv may have to cede land to Russia to end the invasion.

“So what we’re saying to the president and really to the entire world is, you need to articulate what the ambition is. What is $61 billion going to accomplish that $100 billion hasn’t?” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-republican-block-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-over-immigration-row-667007">US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row</a>

The Republican senator was referring to Biden’s broader $106 billion emergency spending package – which is pending approval from Congress – out of which $61 billion is allocated for military funds for Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Russia lost thousands of tanks, armoured vehicles</h2>

The Russian army reportedly has lost two-thirds of its pre-invasion tanks, going as far as dipping into Soviet-era stockpiles of older equipment to keep up. The Russian army began the war with 3,100 tanks out of which they have lost 2,200, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Moscow also has had to “backfill” that force with T62 tanks produced in the 1970s, leaving only 1,300 tanks on the battlefield, according to US intelligence. Meanwhile, CNN citing the assessment said that the war has “sharply set back 15 years of Russian effort to modernize its ground force.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-14-billion-aid-package-for-israel-without-ukraine-to-be-rejected-by-senate-654562">US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine</a>

The American media outlet citing a previously declassified report said Russia seemingly believes that the military deadlock will last through winter and “drain” the Western support for Ukraine and “ultimately give Russia the advantage” despite heavy losses. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

However, since neither Russia nor Ukraine released official figures, they could be far from accurate. Russian officials have previously dismissed&nbsp;Western estimates of Russian death tolls in the war and called them&nbsp;vastly exaggerated.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States.

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States. The report also comes as the Ukrainian president is in the midst of a visit to Washington and made a last-ditch plea for more military aid to US lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Russia suffers heavy losses A report by Reuters citing a source familiar with the intelligence, on Tuesday (Dec 12) said that Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with 360,000 personnel. Since then, according to the report at least 315,000 Russian troops, or about 87 per cent of the total number of troops have been killed or injured. The report has attributed this staggering loss to the relaxed recruitment standards for deployment in Ukraine, the source told Reuters. ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown “The scale of losses has forced Russia to take extraordinary measures to sustain its ability to fight. Russia declared a partial mobilization of 300,000 personnel in late 2022, and has relaxed standards to allow recruitment of convicts and older civilians,” the source told the news agency. However, these losses have not stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin who is determined to push forward as the war approaches its second anniversary early next year. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has warned American lawmakers about handing a victory to Russia and reaffirmed support for the war-torn country. So far, the US has sent more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine, and Republicans are sceptical about sending more aid to Kyiv. “The idea that Ukraine was going to throw Russia back to the 1991 borders was preposterous,” JD Vance, a Republican senator from the US state of Ohio said on CNN’s State of the Union over the weekend, suggesting that Kyiv may have to cede land to Russia to end the invasion. “So what we’re saying to the president and really to the entire world is, you need to articulate what the ambition is. What is $61 billion going to accomplish that $100 billion hasn’t?” he added. ALSO READ | US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row The Republican senator was referring to Biden’s broader $106 billion emergency spending package – which is pending approval from Congress – out of which $61 billion is allocated for military funds for Ukraine. Russia lost thousands of tanks, armoured vehicles The Russian army reportedly has lost two-thirds of its pre-invasion tanks, going as far as dipping into Soviet-era stockpiles of older equipment to keep up. The Russian army began the war with 3,100 tanks out of which they have lost 2,200, reported Reuters. Moscow also has had to “backfill” that force with T62 tanks produced in the 1970s, leaving only 1,300 tanks on the battlefield, according to US intelligence. Meanwhile, CNN citing the assessment said that the war has “sharply set back 15 years of Russian effort to modernize its ground force.” ALSO READ | US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine The American media outlet citing a previously declassified report said Russia seemingly believes that the military deadlock will last through winter and “drain” the Western support for Ukraine and “ultimately give Russia the advantage” despite heavy losses. However, since neither Russia nor Ukraine released official figures, they could be far from accurate. Russian officials have previously dismissed Western estimates of Russian death tolls in the war and called them vastly exaggerated. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine war has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report

President Vladimir Putin attended a televised flag-raising ceremony on Monday for two nuclear submarines that he said were part of a strategic drive to project Russian naval power. Putin travelled to the northern city of Severodvinsk to view the vessels, the Krasnoyarsk and Emperor Alexander the Third, at the Sevmash shipbuilding yard.

Putin views new nuclear submarines, says more are being rolled out

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived Tuesday in US Congress to press increasingly reluctant Republicans to back his country's fight against Russian invasion with renewed US military aid.

Zelensky arrives in us congress to push for military aid to Ukraine

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