Boris Johnson failed to tackle a “macho” culture of misogyny, bullying and lack of diversity inside Downing Street which hampered the government’s response to Covid, the public inquiry into the pandemic has heard.

'Macho' culture of misogyny in Downing Street hampered Covid response, inquiry hears

A week after stalling an aid deal worth $54 billion to Ukraine, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has asserted that the money should not come out of the European Union (EU) budget, stating it remains a 'bad decision'.

A week after stalling an aid deal worth $54 billion to Ukraine, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has asserted that the money should not come out of the European Union (EU) budget, stating it remains a 'bad decision'. Orban justified his decision of vetoing the previous proposal saying Hungary's money was involved in the budget and therefore it had a say in the matter. "I am convinced that to give Ukraine 50 billion euros ($54.70 billion) from the EU budget for five years, in which there is no money for this, and by taking out a loan, that's a bad decision. Instead let's make a good decision, which is the Hungarian proposal," Orban was quoted as saying by Reuters. Quizzed about the possibility that the bloc's 26 other members might broker a deal between themselves and Kyiv, Orban said he would reserve his comments. "They have the possibility - if we don't agree on this - to resolve this outside the budget, but don't have the option of resolving this from the EU budget without Hungarian approval. They have the possibility, 26 members, to resolve this with a joint loan outside the budget. If this comes up, we will consider what we say." "We are not asking for anything, only that the budget should be implemented, but if they start amending the budget then the Hungarian interests will surface and we will negotiate accordingly," he added. Also watch | Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid Orban puts his foot down Last Friday, Orban put his foot down and delayed the deal until January next year, saying the European Council needed to come back to the proposal with proper preparation. EU chief Charles Michel refrained from divulging the details of the meeting. "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. Also read | Ukraine next EU member? Kyiv may get membership lifeboat amid sinking wartime fortunes 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. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary's Orban says $54bn aid to Ukraine from EU budget is a 'bad decision'

Apart from Ukrainian shelling and drone attacks, Russian soldiers on the front line are facing another threat. Ukrainian Intelligence claims that the troops are experiencing the effect of Mouse Fever.

Russia soldiers fighting another front, face 'Mouse Fever outbreak': Ukraine | World News | WION

As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on, it seems like drone strikes or artillery fire are not the only dangers faced by the Russian troops on the frontlines. A recent report by Ukraine claims that Moscow’s soldiers are suffering due to the outbreak of so-called “mouse fever” or “rat-bite fever” on the Kupyansk frontline.&nbsp;

According to the report, the disease that causes people to bleed from their eyes, suffer from severe headaches and vomit several times a day is “mowing down” frontline Russian troops.

<h2>What does the report say?</h2>

The outbreak of the so-called “mouse fever” – a viral disease – has been recorded in many units of the Russian forces near Ukraine’s Kupyansk frontline, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence’s main directorate of intelligence said in a post on its official Telegram channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-hasnt-read-hitlers-mein-kampf-after-backlash-on-remarks-against-immigrants-671963">Trump insists he hasn’t read Hitler’s ‘Mein Kampf’ after backlash on remarks against migrants</a>

The illness spread by rodents is said to be affecting Russian soldiers “en masse”. However, Russian commanders dismissed the troops’ concerns, claimed the Ukrainian defence ministry.&nbsp;

The infection transmits to humans through direct contact with rodents carrying the bacteria, as well as inhalation of their urine, faeces, or mucous secretions.&nbsp;

Symptoms of the infection include severe headache, body temperature rising to 40 degrees Celsius, rashes and redness, decreased blood pressure, haemorrhages in the eyes, nausea and vomiting several times a day, according to the report by Ukraine.&nbsp;

However, Kyiv has claimed that Russian commanders have ignored these concerns and consider it an excuse to avoid fighting, saying that “at the first stage of the course, ‘mouse fever’ resembles an ordinary flu.”&nbsp;

“In the Kupyansk direction of the front of the occupiers, mouse fever is mowing down en masse,” said the Ukrainian agency on Telegram. It added, “As a result, mouse fever significantly reduced the fighting ability of Russian rats.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stands-ready-for-peace-efforts-committed-to-providing-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-pm-modi-671947">India stands ready for peace efforts, committed to providing humanitarian aid to Gaza: PM Modi</a>

The Ukrainian agency has also said Russian troops are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/demoralised-russian-troops-shoot-selves-with-ukrainian-ammo-in-legs-to-avoid-fighting-say-reports-463966">frustrated</a> by the “inadequate provision of winter items and a complete lack of medical assistance.”&nbsp;

The disease is also affecting the Russian soldiers’ kidneys, causing intense pain in their lower back and severe difficulty in urinating, Ukrainian officials claimed.

<h2>What is ‘mouse fever’?</h2>

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infection can spread through bites or scratches from rodents carrying the bacteria as well as through contact with surfaces that are contaminated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-four-pro-russian-troops-in-ukraine-with-war-crimes-666944">US charges four pro-Russian troops in Ukraine with war crimes</a>

However, the disease does not spread from one person to another. Rat-bite fever “can be a serious or even fatal disease,” according to the CDC.&nbsp;

Symptoms and signs of “mouse fever” include fever, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, joint pain or swelling, and rashes, said the CDC.&nbsp;

(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.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on, it seems like drone strikes or artillery fire are not the only dangers faced by the Russian troops on the frontlines.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on, it seems like drone strikes or artillery fire are not the only dangers faced by the Russian troops on the frontlines. A recent report by Ukraine claims that Moscow’s soldiers are suffering due to the outbreak of so-called “mouse fever” or “rat-bite fever” on the Kupyansk frontline. According to the report, the disease that causes people to bleed from their eyes, suffer from severe headaches and vomit several times a day is “mowing down” frontline Russian troops. What does the report say? The outbreak of the so-called “mouse fever” – a viral disease – has been recorded in many units of the Russian forces near Ukraine’s Kupyansk frontline, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence’s main directorate of intelligence said in a post on its official Telegram channel. ALSO READ | Trump insists he hasn’t read Hitler’s ‘Mein Kampf’ after backlash on remarks against migrants The illness spread by rodents is said to be affecting Russian soldiers “en masse”. However, Russian commanders dismissed the troops’ concerns, claimed the Ukrainian defence ministry. The infection transmits to humans through direct contact with rodents carrying the bacteria, as well as inhalation of their urine, faeces, or mucous secretions. Symptoms of the infection include severe headache, body temperature rising to 40 degrees Celsius, rashes and redness, decreased blood pressure, haemorrhages in the eyes, nausea and vomiting several times a day, according to the report by Ukraine. However, Kyiv has claimed that Russian commanders have ignored these concerns and consider it an excuse to avoid fighting, saying that “at the first stage of the course, ‘mouse fever’ resembles an ordinary flu.” “In the Kupyansk direction of the front of the occupiers, mouse fever is mowing down en masse,” said the Ukrainian agency on Telegram. It added, “As a result, mouse fever significantly reduced the fighting ability of Russian rats.” ALSO READ | India stands ready for peace efforts, committed to providing humanitarian aid to Gaza: PM Modi The Ukrainian agency has also said Russian troops are frustrated by the “inadequate provision of winter items and a complete lack of medical assistance.” The disease is also affecting the Russian soldiers’ kidneys, causing intense pain in their lower back and severe difficulty in urinating, Ukrainian officials claimed. What is ‘mouse fever’? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infection can spread through bites or scratches from rodents carrying the bacteria as well as through contact with surfaces that are contaminated. ALSO READ | US charges four pro-Russian troops in Ukraine with war crimes However, the disease does not spread from one person to another. Rat-bite fever “can be a serious or even fatal disease,” according to the CDC. Symptoms and signs of “mouse fever” include fever, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, joint pain or swelling, and rashes, said the CDC. (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.

‘Mouse fever’ outbreak is ‘mowing down’ Russian troops in Kupyansk frontline, claims Ukraine

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has lasted for more than a year. The allies of Ukraine are growing weary as tensions rise. Questioning Ukraine's legitimacy, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated, "Won't give up on what's ours!"

Russia-Ukraine war: Fatigue builds among Kyiv allies | Latest News | WION

Ukrainian President Zelensky has announced that the military needs 500,000 more conscripts. Those fighting on the frontlines are struggling with combat stress. Many civilians have been forced to serve in Ukrainian armed forces. Recruiting officers are becoming increasingly aggressive. How will Zelensky's latest call for mobilisation affect it?

Gravitas | Ukraine's new enemy in the war: Combat stress

The Russia-Ukraine war has been continuing for over an year now. As tensions are soar, fatigue is building in the allies of Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said, "Won't give up on what's ours!" as he questions the legitimacy of Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: "Won't give up what is ours," says Putin

A UN expert has raised concerns over Alexey Navalny's disappearance. Where is the Russian opposition leader?

Gravitas | Putin critic Alexey Navalny's disappearance: UN raises concerns

A covert listening device was discovered in Ukrainian army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi's office. Who was trying to spy on Ukraine's top general?

Gravitas: Ukraine's top general snooped on? Was it an inside job?

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>

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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>

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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

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