Shares of <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/elon-musk-tweet-may-cost-him-job-as-tesla-ceo-199947">Tesla Inc. soared</a> in extended trading, making Elon Musks' fortune swell by £1.75 billion in an hour. Stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings lead to ramping up production of its Model Y crossover SUV.

Citing research from Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the stock, which closes at £442.70, rose 12 per cent to 494.52 and boosted the CEO's net worth to about £27.43 billion. An impressive amount considering that <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/no-apology-to-elon-musk-from-british-diver-at-pedo-guy-defamation-trial-266542">Elon Musk</a> does not receive a salary or bonuses.

48-year-old Elon Musk owns one-fifth of Tesla's exceptional stock which comprises the bulk of his fortune while his closely held Space Exploration Technologies Corp. constitutes about £11.12 billion into his net worth.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/first-spacex-launch-with-nasa-most-probably-to-take-place-between-april-and-june-this-year-elon-musk-275498">SpaceX launch with NASA may take place between April-June: Elon Musk</a>

The company posted a surprising third-quarter profit, after which Tesla's shares have been on a non-stop roll and the firm's market value is now above £76.19 billion.&nbsp;

If it stays above this threshold for an extended period, Musk will be eligible for a long-term compensation award that could make his net worth skyrocket to a whopping £ 38.10 billion. Though before he does that, one must take into consideration the fact that all performance targets need to be met.

Shares of Tesla Inc. soared in extended trading, making Elon Musks' fortune swell by £1.75 billion in an hour. Stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings lead to ramping up production of its Model Y crossover SUV.

Shares of Tesla Inc. soared in extended trading, making Elon Musks' fortune swell by £1.75 billion in an hour. Stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings lead to ramping up production of its Model Y crossover SUV. Citing research from Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the stock, which closes at £442.70, rose 12 per cent to 494.52 and boosted the CEO's net worth to about £27.43 billion. An impressive amount considering that Elon Musk does not receive a salary or bonuses. 48-year-old Elon Musk owns one-fifth of Tesla's exceptional stock which comprises the bulk of his fortune while his closely held Space Exploration Technologies Corp. constitutes about £11.12 billion into his net worth. Also Read: SpaceX launch with NASA may take place between April-June: Elon Musk The company posted a surprising third-quarter profit, after which Tesla's shares have been on a non-stop roll and the firm's market value is now above £76.19 billion. If it stays above this threshold for an extended period, Musk will be eligible for a long-term compensation award that could make his net worth skyrocket to a whopping £ 38.10 billion. Though before he does that, one must take into consideration the fact that all performance targets need to be met.

Tesla stock skyrocketed; CEO Elon Musk got £1.75 billion in 60 minutes

A passageway connecting the San Diego area in California to an industrial site in the Mexican city of Tijuana was found recently by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-authorises-1-bn-for-trumps-border-wall-205641">US Customs and Border Protection</a>. The tunnel stretches for 4,309 feet (1,313 metres) and has a lift, rail track, drainage and air ventilation systems, high voltage electrical cables and panels.&nbsp;

Authorities have refused to comment on potential suspects behind the tunnel, no drugs have been found in the tunnel and no arrests have been made.&nbsp;

There could exist a possible link between the tunnel and Mexico's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-mexico-el-chapos-sons-add-brash-new-chapter-to-crime-family-257617">Sinaloa cartel</a>, which operates in the area and has been described by the US as one of the largest drug-trafficking organizations on the planet. Founder and leader of the Sinaloa cartel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-rise-and-fall-of-el-chapo-mexicos-most-wanted-kingpin-236726">Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman</a>, is currently serving life at ADX Florence.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-border-crossings-plunge-but-immigration-raids-draw-fire-241783">US border crossings plunge but immigration raids draw fire</a>

Mexican officials identified the entrance of the tunnel in August and US investigators mapped it before releasing the findings. The tunnel is 5.5 feet high and 2 feet wide, resting at a depth of 70 feet (21m) below the surface. US Customs and Border Protection are not clear how long it took to build it.

<img alt="The sophisticated tunnel had a rail track" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39a576c5-34ae-442e-81df-5187b5f23f8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_23.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;US officials say they have discovered the longest smuggling tunnel ever found on the border with Mexico. (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Blocking a suspected former exit of the tunnel in San Diego's Otay Mesa industrial warehouse area were several hundred sandbags, as per reports. The main tunnel had an incomplete offshoot. The second-longest tunnel found in the San Diego area of the country in 2014 was 2,966 feet long, as per reports.

Impeached US President Donald Trump has asserted the need for a border wall many times, adamant that it is required to tackle illegal immigration and drug trafficking.&nbsp;Officials have concurred that most drugs are smuggled through legal ports of entry and hidden in privately-owned vehicles or transporter lorries mixed with other goods. A border wall would be as effective against a network of smuggling tunnels as a gun. 
&nbsp;

A passageway connecting the San Diego area in California to an industrial site in the Mexican city of Tijuana was found recently by US Customs and Border Protection.

A passageway connecting the San Diego area in California to an industrial site in the Mexican city of Tijuana was found recently by US Customs and Border Protection. The tunnel stretches for 4,309 feet (1,313 metres) and has a lift, rail track, drainage and air ventilation systems, high voltage electrical cables and panels. Authorities have refused to comment on potential suspects behind the tunnel, no drugs have been found in the tunnel and no arrests have been made. There could exist a possible link between the tunnel and Mexico's Sinaloa cartel, which operates in the area and has been described by the US as one of the largest drug-trafficking organizations on the planet. Founder and leader of the Sinaloa cartel Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, is currently serving life at ADX Florence. Also Read:US border crossings plunge but immigration raids draw fire Mexican officials identified the entrance of the tunnel in August and US investigators mapped it before releasing the findings. The tunnel is 5.5 feet high and 2 feet wide, resting at a depth of 70 feet (21m) below the surface. US Customs and Border Protection are not clear how long it took to build it. [ US officials say they have discovered the longest smuggling tunnel ever found on the border with Mexico. (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Blocking a suspected former exit of the tunnel in San Diego's Otay Mesa industrial warehouse area were several hundred sandbags, as per reports. The main tunnel had an incomplete offshoot. The second-longest tunnel found in the San Diego area of the country in 2014 was 2,966 feet long, as per reports. Impeached US President Donald Trump has asserted the need for a border wall many times, adamant that it is required to tackle illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Officials have concurred that most drugs are smuggled through legal ports of entry and hidden in privately-owned vehicles or transporter lorries mixed with other goods. A border wall would be as effective against a network of smuggling tunnels as a gun.

Longest smuggling tunnel discovered under US-Mexico Border; possible connections to Sinaloa cartel

A group of 2,126 people came together in a display of culture, art, and valour of Hindu warrior group of Rajput by performing sword dance on Tuesday (January 28) in India's western Gujarat state to create a Guinness World Record.

Over 2,100 Indians wield swords in dance of valour to set Guinness World Record

The legal team of United States President Donald Trump yesterday rejected the impeachment hearings against their client. In the six-page document, his lawyers refer to the House of Representatives' impeachment efforts as a ''dangerous attack'' on Americans and their intrinsic right to vote.

Trump was recently impeached on account of&nbsp;two articles: ''abuse of power'' and the ''obstruction of Congress'', which was approved by the Democratic-led House last year.

The trial against Trump will begin on Tuesday in the Senate, which is mostly under the control of Republicans.

<h6><img alt="trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16734523-9fc5-43a9-9b9d-11aa985d4ad9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_44.jpg" /> 
Image: Screenshot from the statement of Trump's legal team | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Trump has repeatedly denied any involvement in the wrongdoings he's been accused of. He refers to the impeachment drive as an effort to undo his presidential victory.

In the Senate, Trump is expected not to get impeached, for no Republican senators yet have voiced support for the same.

The White House counsel is led by Pat Cipollone, who will get the support of Trump's personal lawyer Jay Sekulow. Ken Starr, the star-lawyer involved in Bill Clinton's impeachment in the 1990s has also joined the team. Celebrity lawyer Alan Dershowitz is also in Trump's dream-team.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-dream-team-meet-us-president-trumps-star-studded-legal-team-274978">Impeachment dream team: Meet US President Trump's star-studded legal team</a>

In their response, Cipollone and Sekulow referred to the articles of impeachment as ''a dangerous attack on the right of the American people to freely choose their president''.

Further, in the six-page document, the team called the impeachment hearings "a brazen and unlawful attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election and interfere with the 2020 election".

Watch:&nbsp;Senate begins trial on Donald Trump's impeachment

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/senate-begins-trial-on-donald-trumps-impeachment-274877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Trump is facing impeachment on the charges of abusing office especially in relation to the Ukraine scandal. He was accused of coercing Ukrainian authorities into investigating Joe Biden, a Democratic presidential candidate. He allegedly withheld aid worth $400 million to Ukraine. &nbsp;

Ukrainian counterpart President Volodymyr Zelensky has also denied the claims.

<h6><img alt="trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77351d0c-8a38-4cd5-a98b-c33b5031ddee" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_41.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and son Barron Trump make their way to board Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC on January 17, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

"The articles of impeachment are constitutionally invalid on their face. They fail to allege any crime or violation of law whatsoever," the defence team said.

On the other hand, the House managers, ie, the prosecutors called Trump's conduct ''the worst nightmare'' of those who framed the US constitution.

''President Trump abused the power of his office to solicit foreign interference in our elections for his own personal political gain, thereby jeopardizing our national security, the integrity of our elections, and our democracy'', the managers said in a statement.

(With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

The legal team of United States President Donald Trump yesterday rejected the impeachment hearings against their client. In the six-page document, his lawyers refer to the House of Representatives' impeachment efforts as a ''dangerous attack'' on Americans and their intrinsic right to vote.

The legal team of United States President Donald Trump yesterday rejected the impeachment hearings against their client. In the six-page document, his lawyers refer to the House of Representatives' impeachment efforts as a ''dangerous attack'' on Americans and their intrinsic right to vote. Trump was recently impeached on account of two articles: ''abuse of power'' and the ''obstruction of Congress'', which was approved by the Democratic-led House last year. The trial against Trump will begin on Tuesday in the Senate, which is mostly under the control of Republicans. Image: Screenshot from the statement of Trump's legal team | Reuters Trump has repeatedly denied any involvement in the wrongdoings he's been accused of. He refers to the impeachment drive as an effort to undo his presidential victory. In the Senate, Trump is expected not to get impeached, for no Republican senators yet have voiced support for the same. The White House counsel is led by Pat Cipollone, who will get the support of Trump's personal lawyer Jay Sekulow. Ken Starr, the star-lawyer involved in Bill Clinton's impeachment in the 1990s has also joined the team. Celebrity lawyer Alan Dershowitz is also in Trump's dream-team. Also read: Impeachment dream team: Meet US President Trump's star-studded legal team In their response, Cipollone and Sekulow referred to the articles of impeachment as ''a dangerous attack on the right of the American people to freely choose their president''. Further, in the six-page document, the team called the impeachment hearings "a brazen and unlawful attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election and interfere with the 2020 election". Watch: Senate begins trial on Donald Trump's impeachment Trump is facing impeachment on the charges of abusing office especially in relation to the Ukraine scandal. He was accused of coercing Ukrainian authorities into investigating Joe Biden, a Democratic presidential candidate. He allegedly withheld aid worth $400 million to Ukraine. Ukrainian counterpart President Volodymyr Zelensky has also denied the claims. Image: US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and son Barron Trump make their way to board Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC on January 17, 2020 | AFP "The articles of impeachment are constitutionally invalid on their face. They fail to allege any crime or violation of law whatsoever," the defence team said. On the other hand, the House managers, ie, the prosecutors called Trump's conduct ''the worst nightmare'' of those who framed the US constitution. ''President Trump abused the power of his office to solicit foreign interference in our elections for his own personal political gain, thereby jeopardizing our national security, the integrity of our elections, and our democracy'', the managers said in a statement. (With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

'Brazen and unlawful': Donald Trump's legal team rejects impeachment charges

The newly founded United States Space Force recently unveiled its uniform. The colour of choice has stirred a debacle on social media, BBC reported.

<h6><img alt="ooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf7fb912-96dd-4181-96d0-3cbd1ca3230a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_36.jpg" /> 
Image: The uniform of United States Space Force | Courtesy: Twitter handle @SpaceForceDoD 
&nbsp;</h6>

As apparent in the image, the uniform has a camouflage design with badges embroidered on the arm and chest.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaceForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpaceForce</a> utility uniform nametapes have touched down in the 
Pentagon. <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EsperDoD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SecAFOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecAFOfficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceForceCSO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceForceCSO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GenDaveGoldfein?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GenDaveGoldfein</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofDefense</a><a href="https://twitter.com/usairforce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@usairforce</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jvzt5bvNl7">pic.twitter.com/Jvzt5bvNl7</a>
— United States Space Force (@SpaceForceDoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceForceDoD/status/1218335200964464650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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The most common reaction to the uniform went along the lines of ''camo in space?'' 
 
A user on Twitter went as far as asking, "Have they never seen space before?"

Camouflage is usually chosen by ground military operations to help them blend into their surroundings without being accosted by their enemies, another user implied.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Really disappointed with the green. 
 
Surely a pattern like this would have given more camouflage in space. <a href="https://t.co/A1eAJkSk1e">https://t.co/A1eAJkSk1e</a> <a href="https://t.co/7lUGAyRqTD">pic.twitter.com/7lUGAyRqTD</a>
— Richard Chambers (@newschambers) <a href="https://twitter.com/newschambers/status/1218455671189970944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Force responded to the critique and said that it was "utilising current Army/Air Force uniforms" and "saving costs of designing/producing a new one".

"Members will look like the joint counterparts they'll be working with, on the ground," the force added.

However, this affirmation did little to calm down the Twitterati.

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Donald Trump has unveiled the US Space Force camouflage uniform. Spot the problem. <a href="https://t.co/2YJgfoZF4n">pic.twitter.com/2YJgfoZF4n</a>
— James Melville (@JamesMelville) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesMelville/status/1218809681377972225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Donald Trump had officially launched the US Space Force at an army base near Washington in December 2019.

Referring to space as ''the world's newest war-fighting domain'', Trump said the force would help ''deter aggression''.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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I know this is hard to understand, but on the left there is a picture of camouflage and on the right there is a picture of space. Study these carefully until you can see the difference. <a href="https://t.co/7HhAeHRyrm">pic.twitter.com/7HhAeHRyrm</a>
— JRehling (@JRehling) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRehling/status/1218387128465256448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, the title of the force is misleading, for it is not envisaged to put troops into orbit. Instead, the force is expected to protect United States assets like satellites which facilitate communication and surveillance.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
USSF is utilizing current Army/Air Force uniforms, saving costs of designing/producing a new one. 
 
Members will look like their joint counterparts they’ll be working with, on the ground.
— United States Space Force (@SpaceForceDoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceForceDoD/status/1218431457154088960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The force's first secretary Barbara Barrett had earlier claimed that the newly orchestrated Space Force would have 16,000 air force and civilian personnel.&nbsp;

Donald Trump's administration has allotted $40 million to maintain and fund the force in its pilot year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-space-force-donald-trump-creates-new-warfare-service-branch-of-pentagon-269433">United States Space Force: Donald Trump creates new warfare service branch of Pentagon</a>

The newly founded United States Space Force recently unveiled its uniform. The colour of choice has stirred a debacle on social media, BBC reported. Image: The uniform of United States Space Force | Courtesy: Twitter handle @SpaceForceDoD As apparent in the image, the uniform has a camouflage design with badges embroidered on the arm and chest.

The newly founded United States Space Force recently unveiled its uniform. The colour of choice has stirred a debacle on social media, BBC reported. Image: The uniform of United States Space Force | Courtesy: Twitter handle @SpaceForceDoD As apparent in the image, the uniform has a camouflage design with badges embroidered on the arm and chest. The first #SpaceForce utility uniform nametapes have touched down in the Pentagon. @EsperDoD @SecAFOfficial @SpaceForceCSO @GenDaveGoldfein @DeptofDefense@usairforce pic.twitter.com/Jvzt5bvNl7 — United States Space Force (@SpaceForceDoD) January 18, 2020 × The most common reaction to the uniform went along the lines of ''camo in space?'' A user on Twitter went as far as asking, "Have they never seen space before?" Camouflage is usually chosen by ground military operations to help them blend into their surroundings without being accosted by their enemies, another user implied. Really disappointed with the green. Surely a pattern like this would have given more camouflage in space. https://t.co/A1eAJkSk1e pic.twitter.com/7lUGAyRqTD — Richard Chambers (@newschambers) January 18, 2020 × The Force responded to the critique and said that it was "utilising current Army/Air Force uniforms" and "saving costs of designing/producing a new one". "Members will look like the joint counterparts they'll be working with, on the ground," the force added. However, this affirmation did little to calm down the Twitterati. Donald Trump has unveiled the US Space Force camouflage uniform. Spot the problem. pic.twitter.com/2YJgfoZF4n — James Melville (@JamesMelville) January 19, 2020 × Donald Trump had officially launched the US Space Force at an army base near Washington in December 2019. Referring to space as ''the world's newest war-fighting domain'', Trump said the force would help ''deter aggression''. I know this is hard to understand, but on the left there is a picture of camouflage and on the right there is a picture of space. Study these carefully until you can see the difference. pic.twitter.com/7HhAeHRyrm — JRehling (@JRehling) January 18, 2020 × However, the title of the force is misleading, for it is not envisaged to put troops into orbit. Instead, the force is expected to protect United States assets like satellites which facilitate communication and surveillance. USSF is utilizing current Army/Air Force uniforms, saving costs of designing/producing a new one. Members will look like their joint counterparts they’ll be working with, on the ground. — United States Space Force (@SpaceForceDoD) January 18, 2020 × The force's first secretary Barbara Barrett had earlier claimed that the newly orchestrated Space Force would have 16,000 air force and civilian personnel. Donald Trump's administration has allotted $40 million to maintain and fund the force in its pilot year. Also read: United States Space Force: Donald Trump creates new warfare service branch of Pentagon

US Space Force unveils camouflage uniform, gets trolled on Twitter

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy.

Putin made the comments while addressing the veterans of World War Two in St Petersburg.

Recently, he shook up the cabinet which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government.

After this, Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the country's tax service was chosen as the prime minister. More members of the cabinet will be announced shortly.

Putin's recent changes in the Russian polity triggered fears of the president trying to indefinitely extend his power. The constitutional amendment put forth by Putin would create new centres of power outside of the presidency.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="063c6bc3-82b1-4ffb-b139-d80ad5da5d7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_48.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) visits a 3D panorama ‘Memory speaks. The road through the war’ in St Petersburg on January 18, 2020, as part of the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two. Putin attended events marking the 77th anniversary of the break of Nazi's siege of Leningrad. The Red Army broke the nearly 900-day blockade of the city on January 19, 1943 after fierce fighting | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Putin has dominated the Russian political landscape as president or as prime minister for the last two decades. His current term terminates in 2024.

Many critics believe that Putin wants to exercise power over Russia even after his term ends. 
 
The president had also earlier said that he wants to limit the maximum terms of any presidents to two. However, he is himself serving his fourth term.

&nbsp;"As regards (presidential) terms for staying in power I understand ... that (concern over this) is linked for many people with worries about societal, state and domestic and external stability'', Putin said.

"But it would be very worrying to return to the situation we had in the mid-1980s when state leaders stayed in power, one by one, until the end of their days and left office without ensuring the necessary conditions for a transition of power. So thanks, but I think it would be better not to return to that situation", he added.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c82de3-9c5a-4b01-ab1e-eeeee6ea051d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_55.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying commemoration ceremony for the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two at the Boundary Stone monument, around 50 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg on January 18, 2020. The Russian city of St. Petersburg, then called Leningrad, marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the devastating WWII siege by Nazi forces, lasted 872 days until the Soviet Army drove the Nazis away on January 27, 1944 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Putin was alluding to the late Soviet period whereby senior leaders like Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov and Konstantin Chernenko all died in office. This was usually followed by attempts to grab power by others.&nbsp;

Could Putin be suggesting that he does not intend to return as president after his term ends?

Many believe that Putin would continue to wield influence behind the scenes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-mishustin-tax-service-head-and-hockey-player-picked-by-putin-as-russian-pm-274590">Mikhail Mishustin -&nbsp;Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM</a>

(With inputs from Reuters)

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday said that he does not want his country to return to the late Soviet-era practice of having lifelong rulers. Most of these rulers died in power without a proper succession strategy. Putin made the comments while addressing the veterans of World War Two in St Petersburg. Recently, he shook up the cabinet which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government. After this, Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the country's tax service was chosen as the prime minister. More members of the cabinet will be announced shortly. Putin's recent changes in the Russian polity triggered fears of the president trying to indefinitely extend his power. The constitutional amendment put forth by Putin would create new centres of power outside of the presidency. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) visits a 3D panorama ‘Memory speaks. The road through the war’ in St Petersburg on January 18, 2020, as part of the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two. Putin attended events marking the 77th anniversary of the break of Nazi's siege of Leningrad. The Red Army broke the nearly 900-day blockade of the city on January 19, 1943 after fierce fighting | AFP Putin has dominated the Russian political landscape as president or as prime minister for the last two decades. His current term terminates in 2024. Many critics believe that Putin wants to exercise power over Russia even after his term ends. The president had also earlier said that he wants to limit the maximum terms of any presidents to two. However, he is himself serving his fourth term. "As regards (presidential) terms for staying in power I understand ... that (concern over this) is linked for many people with worries about societal, state and domestic and external stability'', Putin said. "But it would be very worrying to return to the situation we had in the mid-1980s when state leaders stayed in power, one by one, until the end of their days and left office without ensuring the necessary conditions for a transition of power. So thanks, but I think it would be better not to return to that situation", he added. Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying commemoration ceremony for the 75th anniversary since the Leningrad siege was lifted during the World War Two at the Boundary Stone monument, around 50 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg on January 18, 2020. The Russian city of St. Petersburg, then called Leningrad, marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the devastating WWII siege by Nazi forces, lasted 872 days until the Soviet Army drove the Nazis away on January 27, 1944 | AFP Putin was alluding to the late Soviet period whereby senior leaders like Leonid Brezhnev, Yuri Andropov and Konstantin Chernenko all died in office. This was usually followed by attempts to grab power by others. Could Putin be suggesting that he does not intend to return as president after his term ends? Many believe that Putin would continue to wield influence behind the scenes. Also read: Mikhail Mishustin - Tax Service head and Hockey player picked by Putin as Russian PM (With inputs from Reuters)

Putin rejects idea of Soviet-style lifelong leaders for Russia while addressing war veterans

Chinese president Xi Jinping is currently visiting Myanmar on a two-day tour.

Earlier today, he got a lavish welcome in Nay-Pyi-Daw, the country's capital.&nbsp;

Xi is visiting to celebrate 70 years of China-Myanmar ties, and to set-up investment in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine.

The state witnessed violence against the Rohingya Muslims a few years ago, triggering one of the biggest crises in South Asia.

Myanmar came into the limelight for human rights abuses against the Muslim minority.

Most Western nations accuse Myanmar's government of tacitly supporting the military in what they say was a genocide.

The military had launched a campaign against the Rohingyas owing to which many of them were killed and raped. More than 900 thousand fled to Bangladesh.

As a result, foreign investment has dried up in the country. After facing global scorn and isolation, Aung San Suu Kyi has turned to China for help. Jinping has obliged by promising to pump billions into Myanmar.

Ahead of President Xi's arrival, a minister from Myanmar said that he would sign agreements to build a special economic zone, as well as a port - along the Bay of Bengal.

Together, both countries are building the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. And it's all happening under the belt and road initiative - a debt trap for developing countries.

<h6><img alt="kiiii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8ccd7d2-19cb-44e2-9978-b31738c53d8b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_49.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping, Myanmar President Win Myint and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a cermony marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, January 17, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

India should be worried about China's moves. It could give Beijing a backdoor entry into the Indian Ocean, and thereby control over critical shopping routes in India's neighbourhood.&nbsp;

The crown jewel of China's deals with Myanmar is the Kyau-Kphyu special economic zone.

This is a 1.5 billion dollar deal, that involves a highway and oil and gas pipelines, infrastructure that will allow Beijing to tap into the rich energy reserves of Myanmar.

This Special Economic Zone will connect China's Yunnan province to Myanmar's financial centre Yangon and the Rakhine state.

By far, China is the largest foreign investor in Myanmar.

India faces a challenge from China, not just in Myanmar, but across South Asia.

More Chinese investments are being pushed in the Indian subcontinent.

And they all are part of the Belt and Road initiative.

Just before Xi Jinping left for Mynamar, Chinese state mouthpiece The Global Times carried a piece on the website that reads "will India miss the chance offered by Myanmar"?

This article argues that India and China should join hands for development projects in Myanmar.

China's plans to invest in Myanmar pose a challenge to India's security in the subcontinent.

The most worrying project is a seaport in the Bay of Bengal in Kyaukpyu, western coast of Myanmar.&nbsp; 
 
Beijing already has two ports in the region: Sri Lanka has given the Hambantota Port to China on a 99-year lease.

In Pakistan, China is building the Gwadar Port.

All this infrastructure fuels President Xi Jinping's ambitions to put China at the centre of global trade.

<h6><img alt="kii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f15a8ce6-f11b-4189-a6b4-a2068124a917" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_38.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;n this handout photograph taken and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau on November 3, 2019, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) interacts with Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi (L), on the sidelines of the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Bangkok | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Ports in the Indian subcontinent are of great value, for they allow Beijing to exercise control over key shipping routes.

A port in Myanmar adds to China's leverage. &nbsp;Once completed, the port in Kyaukpyu will give China a direct link to oil supplies from West Asia. 
 
However, India also heavily invests in Myanmar. According to a document by the Ministry of External Affairs, India is the 11th largest investor in Myanmar.

26 Indian enterprises have invested nearly 744 million dollars with the most investments in the oil and gas sector.

India and Myanmar's bilateral trade is valued at two billion dollars. 
 
However, India has made overtures. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the oath of office for the second time, only two South-East Asian countries were invited for the swearing-in ceremony: Myanmar is one of them.

The importance of Myanmar for India cannot be overstated. It's the only country that sits at the intersection of India's “Neighborhood First” and “Act East” policy. 
&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-china-ink-deals-to-accelerate-belt-and-road-as-xi-courts-an-isolated-suu-kyi-275025">Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road as Xi courts an isolated Suu Kyi</a>

Chinese president Xi Jinping is currently visiting Myanmar on a two-day tour. Earlier today, he got a lavish welcome in Nay-Pyi-Daw, the country's capital. Xi is visiting to celebrate 70 years of China-Myanmar ties, and to set-up investment in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine.

Chinese president Xi Jinping is currently visiting Myanmar on a two-day tour. Earlier today, he got a lavish welcome in Nay-Pyi-Daw, the country's capital. Xi is visiting to celebrate 70 years of China-Myanmar ties, and to set-up investment in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine. The state witnessed violence against the Rohingya Muslims a few years ago, triggering one of the biggest crises in South Asia. Myanmar came into the limelight for human rights abuses against the Muslim minority. Most Western nations accuse Myanmar's government of tacitly supporting the military in what they say was a genocide. The military had launched a campaign against the Rohingyas owing to which many of them were killed and raped. More than 900 thousand fled to Bangladesh. As a result, foreign investment has dried up in the country. After facing global scorn and isolation, Aung San Suu Kyi has turned to China for help. Jinping has obliged by promising to pump billions into Myanmar. Ahead of President Xi's arrival, a minister from Myanmar said that he would sign agreements to build a special economic zone, as well as a port - along the Bay of Bengal. Together, both countries are building the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. And it's all happening under the belt and road initiative - a debt trap for developing countries. Image: Chinese President Xi Jinping, Myanmar President Win Myint and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a cermony marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, January 17, 2020 | Reuters India should be worried about China's moves. It could give Beijing a backdoor entry into the Indian Ocean, and thereby control over critical shopping routes in India's neighbourhood. The crown jewel of China's deals with Myanmar is the Kyau-Kphyu special economic zone. This is a 1.5 billion dollar deal, that involves a highway and oil and gas pipelines, infrastructure that will allow Beijing to tap into the rich energy reserves of Myanmar. This Special Economic Zone will connect China's Yunnan province to Myanmar's financial centre Yangon and the Rakhine state. By far, China is the largest foreign investor in Myanmar. India faces a challenge from China, not just in Myanmar, but across South Asia. More Chinese investments are being pushed in the Indian subcontinent. And they all are part of the Belt and Road initiative. Just before Xi Jinping left for Mynamar, Chinese state mouthpiece The Global Times carried a piece on the website that reads "will India miss the chance offered by Myanmar"? This article argues that India and China should join hands for development projects in Myanmar. China's plans to invest in Myanmar pose a challenge to India's security in the subcontinent. The most worrying project is a seaport in the Bay of Bengal in Kyaukpyu, western coast of Myanmar. Beijing already has two ports in the region: Sri Lanka has given the Hambantota Port to China on a 99-year lease. In Pakistan, China is building the Gwadar Port. All this infrastructure fuels President Xi Jinping's ambitions to put China at the centre of global trade. Image: n this handout photograph taken and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau on November 3, 2019, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) interacts with Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi (L), on the sidelines of the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Bangkok | Reuters Ports in the Indian subcontinent are of great value, for they allow Beijing to exercise control over key shipping routes. A port in Myanmar adds to China's leverage. Once completed, the port in Kyaukpyu will give China a direct link to oil supplies from West Asia. However, India also heavily invests in Myanmar. According to a document by the Ministry of External Affairs, India is the 11th largest investor in Myanmar. 26 Indian enterprises have invested nearly 744 million dollars with the most investments in the oil and gas sector. India and Myanmar's bilateral trade is valued at two billion dollars. However, India has made overtures. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the oath of office for the second time, only two South-East Asian countries were invited for the swearing-in ceremony: Myanmar is one of them. The importance of Myanmar for India cannot be overstated. It's the only country that sits at the intersection of India's “Neighborhood First” and “Act East” policy. Also read: Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road as Xi courts an isolated Suu Kyi

Xi Jinping bolsters relationship with Myanmar, what does this mean for India?

Satellite Images Of Some Major Events In The Last Decade. #Gravitas #SatelliteImage #WION

Gravitas: How The World Changed In A Decade

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country.

Ashraf Ghani recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-elections-preliminary-results-out-ghani-wins-presidential-poll-269554">won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll</a>. The preliminary results&nbsp;were announced on Sunday, nearly three months after Afghans voted in elections that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims.

Modi had invited Ghani after a telephonic conversation to congratulate him on his victory. Ghani has said that he would visit India at "an appropriate time".

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My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1209413101751279616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani had tweeted.

Ghani also said that the two leaders will discuss a range of regional and international issues during his visit to India.

"My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani tweeted.

According to Ghani, Modi asserted the need for both countries to fight terrorism and extended his support to the Afghan-led peace process in the region.

"He said, India as a friend, neighbour and the world's largest democracy is fully supporting Afghanistan's democratic rule. India supports the Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and controlled peace process. And we are also with Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan," he added.

"Modi said, India is your second home, and offered a formal invitation to visit. We will discuss a range of regional and international issues during this visit. I thank the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-strong-ties-with-islamic-countries-says-relations-have-strengthened-269577">Prime Minister</a> for the invitation and will travel to India at an appropriate time," Ghani tweeted.

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We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan. I appreciated the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, not only for being a good neighbor and friend, but also for India's strategic partnership.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1209413108772605953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent.

Over 1.8 million people cast their votes in the elections which were held on September 28.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-round-two-of-presidential-poll-possible-amid-complaints-269766">might go to a second-round</a> as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

(With inputs from ANI)

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country. Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll.

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country. Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll. The preliminary results were announced on Sunday, nearly three months after Afghans voted in elections that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims. Modi had invited Ghani after a telephonic conversation to congratulate him on his victory. Ghani has said that he would visit India at "an appropriate time". My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) December 24, 2019 × "My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani had tweeted. Ghani also said that the two leaders will discuss a range of regional and international issues during his visit to India. "My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani tweeted. According to Ghani, Modi asserted the need for both countries to fight terrorism and extended his support to the Afghan-led peace process in the region. "He said, India as a friend, neighbour and the world's largest democracy is fully supporting Afghanistan's democratic rule. India supports the Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and controlled peace process. And we are also with Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan," he added. "Modi said, India is your second home, and offered a formal invitation to visit. We will discuss a range of regional and international issues during this visit. I thank the Prime Minister for the invitation and will travel to India at an appropriate time," Ghani tweeted. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan. I appreciated the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, not only for being a good neighbor and friend, but also for India's strategic partnership. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) December 24, 2019 × According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent. Over 1.8 million people cast their votes in the elections which were held on September 28. Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory. (With inputs from ANI)

Afghan President-elect Ashraf Ghani accepts PM Modi's invitation to visit India

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-elections-preliminary-results-out-ghani-wins-presidential-poll-269554">election might go to a second-round</a> as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

The Independent Election Commission (IEC) announced on Sunday a much delayed preliminary result of the September&nbsp;28 presidential vote which was marred by allegations of massive fraud, technical problems with biometric devices used for voting, attacks and irregularities.

IEC said the total turnout was over 1.8 million with Ghani securing 50.64 per cent to win the first round of voting, beating his main rival Abdullah Abdullah who currently shares power with him in a unity government.

However, if a review by the complaints commission reduces Ghani's vote share to below 50 per cent and no other candidate has a majority, a second-round will be held between the two top contenders.

Deen Mohammad Azimi, deputy head of the Electoral Complaints Commission, said there is a "strong possibility" the election would go to the second round.

"Looking at the scope of complaints and objections that needs a thorough review, there could be a run-off," Azimi told Reuters.

The review might take around five weeks, Azimi said, adding that thousands of complaints from candidates had already been filed.

According to the tally released by IEC, the total turnout was 1,824,401 with Ghani winning 923,868 votes and Abdullah second with 720,099 (39.52 per cent).

"President Ghani avoided a run-off just by over 11,000 votes and the complaints commission might invalidate tens of thousands of votes from all candidates," another election official said on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to speak to the media.

Ghani welcomed the IEC decision and said the country was on the right path towards prosperity but Abdullah dismissed the result as fraudulent as he called for a full review.

"There is no&nbsp;doubt that based on clean votes, we are the winner," Abdullah told a crowd of supporters on Sunday in Kabul.

The situation echoes 2014, when both Ghani and Abdullah alleged massive fraud by the other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president and Abdullah his chief executive.

Aides close to Ghani, a Western-educated former World Bank official, said the incumbent was not ready for another power-sharing deal with Abdullah, a former medical doctor and three-time contender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-preliminary-results-of-afghanistan-presidential-election-269718">for the presidency</a>.

Without a unifying leader accepted by all sides, Afghanistan could split further along tribal and ethnic lines which could deepen political instability.

Although Abdullah called for restraint, election result announcements in Afghanistan are typically followed by violent protests from supporters of losing candidates.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory. The Independent Election Commission (IEC) announced on Sunday a much delayed preliminary result of the September 28 presidential vote which was marred by allegations of massive fraud, technical problems with biometric devices used for voting, attacks and irregularities. IEC said the total turnout was over 1.8 million with Ghani securing 50.64 per cent to win the first round of voting, beating his main rival Abdullah Abdullah who currently shares power with him in a unity government. However, if a review by the complaints commission reduces Ghani's vote share to below 50 per cent and no other candidate has a majority, a second-round will be held between the two top contenders. Deen Mohammad Azimi, deputy head of the Electoral Complaints Commission, said there is a "strong possibility" the election would go to the second round. "Looking at the scope of complaints and objections that needs a thorough review, there could be a run-off," Azimi told Reuters. The review might take around five weeks, Azimi said, adding that thousands of complaints from candidates had already been filed. According to the tally released by IEC, the total turnout was 1,824,401 with Ghani winning 923,868 votes and Abdullah second with 720,099 (39.52 per cent). "President Ghani avoided a run-off just by over 11,000 votes and the complaints commission might invalidate tens of thousands of votes from all candidates," another election official said on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to speak to the media. Ghani welcomed the IEC decision and said the country was on the right path towards prosperity but Abdullah dismissed the result as fraudulent as he called for a full review. "There is no doubt that based on clean votes, we are the winner," Abdullah told a crowd of supporters on Sunday in Kabul. The situation echoes 2014, when both Ghani and Abdullah alleged massive fraud by the other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president and Abdullah his chief executive. Aides close to Ghani, a Western-educated former World Bank official, said the incumbent was not ready for another power-sharing deal with Abdullah, a former medical doctor and three-time contender for the presidency. Without a unifying leader accepted by all sides, Afghanistan could split further along tribal and ethnic lines which could deepen political instability. Although Abdullah called for restraint, election result announcements in Afghanistan are typically followed by violent protests from supporters of losing candidates.

Afghanistan: Round two of presidential poll possible amid complaints

After six months of demonstrations in the city, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-next-hong-kongers-rally-for-chinas-uighurs-269572">Hong Kong</a> is preparing for a fresh wave of protests in the Christmas week.&nbsp;

The protesters are planning to convene in districts across the city, including locations like prime shopping malls. On Christmas eve, protesters are planning to meet in five malls, counting down to Christmas near the city's harbourfront.&nbsp;

Yesterday, masked demonstrators attacked the police physically and threw bricks and bottles.

The police's response to this included bursts of pepper spray. As Reuters reported, one officer drew his weapon out but did not fire it.

Hong Kongers have been protesting against Chinese interference in the city's affairs. The city, as per the ''One country, two systems'' scheme was guaranteed freedoms when the British left in 1997.

China says it is committed to the “one country, two systems” formula put in place.

Watch:&nbsp;Violent clashes at Uighur support rally in Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protests-violent-clashes-at-uighur-support-rally-269595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Instances of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-arrest-man-who-at-officers-seize-guns-269548">police brutality</a> have been causing a major uproar, with many demanding an independent investigation into it. The police have consistently denied using excessive force.

Earlier on Sunday, more than 1,000 people rallied in support of China's ethnic Uighur Muslims, who have been detained en masse in camps in China's northwestern Xinjiang region.

Beijing and Hong Kong's government have made clear any call for independence would never be tolerated.

"Advocating Hong Kong independence ... is not conducive to the overall and long term interest of Hong Kong society. It is also contrary to the established basic policies of the People's Republic of China regarding Hong Kong," the city government said in a statement overnight.

The protests, which are now running into its six month, have become <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-face-off-with-police-in-mall-protests-269485">less violent and organised</a>. Since June this year, more than 6,000 people have been arrested.

In the last weekend alone, 52 people were arrested.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After six months of demonstrations in the city, Hong Kong is preparing for a fresh wave of protests in the Christmas week. The protesters are planning to convene in districts across the city, including locations like prime shopping malls.

After six months of demonstrations in the city, Hong Kong is preparing for a fresh wave of protests in the Christmas week. The protesters are planning to convene in districts across the city, including locations like prime shopping malls. On Christmas eve, protesters are planning to meet in five malls, counting down to Christmas near the city's harbourfront. Yesterday, masked demonstrators attacked the police physically and threw bricks and bottles. The police's response to this included bursts of pepper spray. As Reuters reported, one officer drew his weapon out but did not fire it. Hong Kongers have been protesting against Chinese interference in the city's affairs. The city, as per the ''One country, two systems'' scheme was guaranteed freedoms when the British left in 1997. China says it is committed to the “one country, two systems” formula put in place. Watch: Violent clashes at Uighur support rally in Hong Kong Instances of police brutality have been causing a major uproar, with many demanding an independent investigation into it. The police have consistently denied using excessive force. Earlier on Sunday, more than 1,000 people rallied in support of China's ethnic Uighur Muslims, who have been detained en masse in camps in China's northwestern Xinjiang region. Beijing and Hong Kong's government have made clear any call for independence would never be tolerated. "Advocating Hong Kong independence ... is not conducive to the overall and long term interest of Hong Kong society. It is also contrary to the established basic policies of the People's Republic of China regarding Hong Kong," the city government said in a statement overnight. The protests, which are now running into its six month, have become less violent and organised. Since June this year, more than 6,000 people have been arrested. In the last weekend alone, 52 people were arrested. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Protests planned across city during Christmas week after massive Uighur rally

On Monday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-us-sanctions-on-european-gas-project-269464">Russian government</a> referred to a shooting incident last week as ''a manifestation of madness'', which is faced by all countries alike.

The shooting killed two officers of the Russian FSB security service.

Yevgeny Manyurov, 39, a former security guard had opened fire on the FSB headquarters in Moscow.

On Thursday evening, Manyurov opened fire and his victims include an FSB employee. He also wounded five other people outside the headquarters of the Soviet-era KGB. He was later shot dead.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin holds annual news conference

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-holds-annual-news-conference-269191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Another employee of the FSB succumbed to his injuries in a hospital later.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-outline-terms-for-five-year-gas-transit-deal-to-end-row-269490">Kremlin</a> spokesperson Dmitry Peskov referred to the incident as a ''tragedy''.

"We live in such times, and not just us but all governments in the world, when unfortunately nobody is immune from any manifestations of madness with tragic consequences," said Peskov.

The word ''Kremlin'' literally translates into ''fortress inside a city'', and is used to widely refer to the government of the Russian federation.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Monday, the Russian government referred to a shooting incident last week as ''a manifestation of madness'', which is faced by all countries alike. The shooting killed two officers of the Russian FSB security service.

On Monday, the Russian government referred to a shooting incident last week as ''a manifestation of madness'', which is faced by all countries alike. The shooting killed two officers of the Russian FSB security service. Yevgeny Manyurov, 39, a former security guard had opened fire on the FSB headquarters in Moscow. On Thursday evening, Manyurov opened fire and his victims include an FSB employee. He also wounded five other people outside the headquarters of the Soviet-era KGB. He was later shot dead. Watch: Russian President Putin holds annual news conference Another employee of the FSB succumbed to his injuries in a hospital later. A Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov referred to the incident as a ''tragedy''. "We live in such times, and not just us but all governments in the world, when unfortunately nobody is immune from any manifestations of madness with tragic consequences," said Peskov. The word ''Kremlin'' literally translates into ''fortress inside a city'', and is used to widely refer to the government of the Russian federation. (With inputs from agencies)

'Manifestation of madness': Kremlin about the Moscow shooting incident last week

United States <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-invites-britains-johnson-to-white-house-for-new-year-sources-269520">President Donald Trump</a> criticised the House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday. According to Trump, Pelosi is restraining against forwarding the articles of impeachment against him to the Senate.

"It's so unfair," Trump said, days after he was impeached by the House, during a speech to conservative student group Turning Point USA, saying that Pelosi adopted the strategy because she has "no case."

"They are violating the Constitution," Trump said, calling Pelosi "crazy Nancy."

The Democratic-controlled House voted on December 18 to impeach Trump, setting the stage for a trial in the Senate. Trump is very unlikely to be convicted and removed from office by the upper chamber of Congress because it is controlled by his Republican Party. A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate is needed for a conviction on impeachment charges.

Watch: Donald Trump becomes third US President to be impeached

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-becomes-third-us-president-to-be-impeached-269255/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Republicans and Democrats are at loggerheads over how the trial will play out. Pelosi and other Democrats want to call top <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-xi-jinping-give-positive-signals-on-trade-deal-after-phone-call-269443">Trump aides</a> as witnesses and are seeking assurances that the trial will be held on terms they consider fair.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell has said he is working in tandem with the White House on trial preparations, drawing accusations from Democrats that he is ignoring his duty to consider the evidence in an impartial manner.

Pelosi has not yet sent the impeachment package to the Senate in a bid to increase pressure on Republicans there. Pelosi has also not yet announced the managers, or prosecutors, who will present evidence in the trial.

"Until the House gets a clearer picture of what a Senate trial will look like, the Speaker will not be in the position to appoint managers and take the next steps in holding this President accountable and ensuring the Senate fulfils its constitutional duty," Pelosi's office said in a statement on Saturday.

Pelosi's office said senators have a constitutional obligation to conduct a "fair process that provides both the Senators, who will act as jurors and the public with the opportunity to understand the full extent of President Trump’s abuse of power."

Trump is accused of abusing his power by holding back $391 million in security aid to Ukraine in an effort to get Kiev to announce a corruption investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading candidate for the Democratic nomination to face Trump in the November 2020 election.

The president is also charged with obstruction of Congress for directing administration officials and agencies not to cooperate with the impeachment inquiry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-blocks-group-spreading-pro-trump-posts-from-fake-accounts-269435">Trump</a> says he did nothing wrong and has dismissed his impeachment as a partisan bid to undo his 2016 election win.

United States President Donald Trump criticised the House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday. According to Trump, Pelosi is restraining against forwarding the articles of impeachment against him to the Senate.

United States President Donald Trump criticised the House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday. According to Trump, Pelosi is restraining against forwarding the articles of impeachment against him to the Senate. "It's so unfair," Trump said, days after he was impeached by the House, during a speech to conservative student group Turning Point USA, saying that Pelosi adopted the strategy because she has "no case." "They are violating the Constitution," Trump said, calling Pelosi "crazy Nancy." The Democratic-controlled House voted on December 18 to impeach Trump, setting the stage for a trial in the Senate. Trump is very unlikely to be convicted and removed from office by the upper chamber of Congress because it is controlled by his Republican Party. A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate is needed for a conviction on impeachment charges. Watch: Donald Trump becomes third US President to be impeached Republicans and Democrats are at loggerheads over how the trial will play out. Pelosi and other Democrats want to call top Trump aides as witnesses and are seeking assurances that the trial will be held on terms they consider fair. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell has said he is working in tandem with the White House on trial preparations, drawing accusations from Democrats that he is ignoring his duty to consider the evidence in an impartial manner. Pelosi has not yet sent the impeachment package to the Senate in a bid to increase pressure on Republicans there. Pelosi has also not yet announced the managers, or prosecutors, who will present evidence in the trial. "Until the House gets a clearer picture of what a Senate trial will look like, the Speaker will not be in the position to appoint managers and take the next steps in holding this President accountable and ensuring the Senate fulfils its constitutional duty," Pelosi's office said in a statement on Saturday. Pelosi's office said senators have a constitutional obligation to conduct a "fair process that provides both the Senators, who will act as jurors and the public with the opportunity to understand the full extent of President Trump’s abuse of power." Trump is accused of abusing his power by holding back $391 million in security aid to Ukraine in an effort to get Kiev to announce a corruption investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading candidate for the Democratic nomination to face Trump in the November 2020 election. The president is also charged with obstruction of Congress for directing administration officials and agencies not to cooperate with the impeachment inquiry. Trump says he did nothing wrong and has dismissed his impeachment as a partisan bid to undo his 2016 election win.

'So unfair': Donald Trump slams impeachment delay in Senate

Croatians cast ballots in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-to-pick-a-president-in-tight-three-way-race-269278">a presidential vote</a> on Sunday that could weaken the ruling conservatives just as the country takes the helm of the European Union's rotating presidency.&nbsp;

The pre-Christmas poll, likely to be decided in a January 5 run-off, has evolved into a tight race between conservative incumbent Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic and front-running rivals on the right and the left.&nbsp;

Grabar-Kitarovic has been president since 2015 with backing from HDZ, the centre-right party that has led Croatia for most of its independence since 1991.

During her term, the 51-year-old has wavered between representing the party's moderates and pandering to its nationalist faction.

In her re-election bid, she is struggling to hold on to hardliners shifting to a right-wing folk singer turned politician, Miroslav Skoro.

Playing on an emotive symbol of the 1990s independence war, Grabar-Kitarovic held her final campaign rally on Friday in eastern Vukovar, the town whose bloody siege by Serb forces became a byword for Croatian suffering during the conflict.&nbsp;

She told the crowd she believed those who fought and died in the war "don't regret being killed since Croatia is (now) here".

The comments were seen as part of her battle to keep far-right voters from turning to Skoro, who has been wooing nationalists with promises to deploy troops to halt migrants at the borders and pardon a convicted war criminal.

Running as an independent, the 57-year-old singer was polling in third place in the run-up to election day.

Meanwhile, the split on the right has carved out a space for leftist former premier Zoran Milanovic, 53, to gain traction. He was running neck-and-neck with Grabar-Kitarovic in the latest opinion polls.

Prime minister from 2011 to 2016, Milanovic was previously derided for his arrogance but is trying to make a comeback with the promise to make Croatia a "normal" country with an independent judiciary and respect for minorities.

Christmas calculation

Analysts say a loss for Grabar-Kitarovic would deliver a blow to HDZ Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, a moderate in the party, ahead of parliamentary elections next year.&nbsp;

Starting on January 1, his government will be tasked with hosting the EU's rotating presidency for a six-month term, with thorny issues like Brexit the Western Balkans' membership bids on the agenda.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-to-hold-presidential-vote-on-december-22-pm-plenkovic-262143">Critics of the government</a> have speculated that the pre-Christmas poll in an overwhelmingly Catholic country was purposefully scheduled to take advantage of the diaspora who are home for the holidays,&nbsp;and typically vote HDZ.&nbsp;

Of the 3.8 million people eligible to vote, some 170,000 are living abroad, mainly in neighbouring Bosnia.

The emigration exodus, a trend that accelerated after Croatia joined the EU in 2013, is one of the most pressing problems on the country's horizon.

The government has struggled to halt young people from packing their bags for better pay and professional opportunities in wealthier member states.&nbsp;

Many who leave also cite a culture of nepotism and corruption at home, plus poor public services, as key motivations.&nbsp;

The presidential campaign has however been light on policy ideas with many candidates instead attacking each other with war-era grievances.&nbsp;

Polling stations will be open from 0600 GMT to 1800 GMT, with initial results expected from 1900 GMT.

Croatians cast ballots in a presidential vote on Sunday that could weaken the ruling conservatives just as the country takes the helm of the European Union's rotating presidency.

Croatians cast ballots in a presidential vote on Sunday that could weaken the ruling conservatives just as the country takes the helm of the European Union's rotating presidency. The pre-Christmas poll, likely to be decided in a January 5 run-off, has evolved into a tight race between conservative incumbent Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic and front-running rivals on the right and the left. Grabar-Kitarovic has been president since 2015 with backing from HDZ, the centre-right party that has led Croatia for most of its independence since 1991. During her term, the 51-year-old has wavered between representing the party's moderates and pandering to its nationalist faction. In her re-election bid, she is struggling to hold on to hardliners shifting to a right-wing folk singer turned politician, Miroslav Skoro. Playing on an emotive symbol of the 1990s independence war, Grabar-Kitarovic held her final campaign rally on Friday in eastern Vukovar, the town whose bloody siege by Serb forces became a byword for Croatian suffering during the conflict. She told the crowd she believed those who fought and died in the war "don't regret being killed since Croatia is (now) here". The comments were seen as part of her battle to keep far-right voters from turning to Skoro, who has been wooing nationalists with promises to deploy troops to halt migrants at the borders and pardon a convicted war criminal. Running as an independent, the 57-year-old singer was polling in third place in the run-up to election day. Meanwhile, the split on the right has carved out a space for leftist former premier Zoran Milanovic, 53, to gain traction. He was running neck-and-neck with Grabar-Kitarovic in the latest opinion polls. Prime minister from 2011 to 2016, Milanovic was previously derided for his arrogance but is trying to make a comeback with the promise to make Croatia a "normal" country with an independent judiciary and respect for minorities. Christmas calculation Analysts say a loss for Grabar-Kitarovic would deliver a blow to HDZ Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, a moderate in the party, ahead of parliamentary elections next year. Starting on January 1, his government will be tasked with hosting the EU's rotating presidency for a six-month term, with thorny issues like Brexit the Western Balkans' membership bids on the agenda. Critics of the government have speculated that the pre-Christmas poll in an overwhelmingly Catholic country was purposefully scheduled to take advantage of the diaspora who are home for the holidays, and typically vote HDZ. Of the 3.8 million people eligible to vote, some 170,000 are living abroad, mainly in neighbouring Bosnia. The emigration exodus, a trend that accelerated after Croatia joined the EU in 2013, is one of the most pressing problems on the country's horizon. The government has struggled to halt young people from packing their bags for better pay and professional opportunities in wealthier member states. Many who leave also cite a culture of nepotism and corruption at home, plus poor public services, as key motivations. The presidential campaign has however been light on policy ideas with many candidates instead attacking each other with war-era grievances. Polling stations will be open from 0600 GMT to 1800 GMT, with initial results expected from 1900 GMT.

Croatia votes for president, set to lead European Union

Owing to the nationwide protests against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-caa-protests-in-up-879-arrested-15-dead-5000-in-preventive-custody-269553">Citizenship (Amendment) Act</a>, a high alert has been raised across Uttarkhand.&nbsp; 
 
Additionally, all the personnel on leaves have been called in with all future holidays of the officers cancelled. 
State DG Law and Order Ashok Kumar have issued instructions to the Superintendents of Police of all the districts to be vigilant. 
 
Police headquarters in Dehradun and Haridwar have also been directed to maintain high vigil in the cities.

The CAA grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Section 144 that prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area, was imposed in Haridwar on Saturday, in view of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-protests-bullet-pierces-through-cops-vest-gets-stuck-in-wallet-269531">protests against the CAA</a>, scheduled to be held today in the city.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Owing to the nationwide protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, a high alert has been raised across Uttarkhand. Additionally, all the personnel on leaves have been called in with all future holidays of the officers cancelled.

Owing to the nationwide protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, a high alert has been raised across Uttarkhand. Additionally, all the personnel on leaves have been called in with all future holidays of the officers cancelled. State DG Law and Order Ashok Kumar have issued instructions to the Superintendents of Police of all the districts to be vigilant. Police headquarters in Dehradun and Haridwar have also been directed to maintain high vigil in the cities. The CAA grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014. Section 144 that prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area, was imposed in Haridwar on Saturday, in view of the protests against the CAA, scheduled to be held today in the city. (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-CAA protests: Uttarkhand on high alert, security increased

The Algerian prosecutor's office Sunday requested 20-year prison sentences for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-first-corruption-trial-for-ex-pms-tycoons-opened-266294">several former politicians</a> accused of corruption, including two prime ministers who served under ex-president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, local media reported.

The trial is the first resulting from sweeping investigations into graft allegations launched after Bouteflika stepped down in April in the face of mass protests which erupted in February against his bid for a fifth term.

In all 19 defendants,&nbsp;two former premiers, other prominent ex-politicians and automotive industry tycoons, face charges ranging from money laundering to abuse of office and granting undue privileges.

The state prosecutor is seeking a 20-year prison sentence for ex-premiers Ahmed Ouyahia and Abdelmalek Sellal, local media reported.

A similar sentence is requested for former industry minister Abdeslam Bouchouareb, who is being tried in absentia as he has fled abroad.

It is the first time since Algeria's independence from France in 1962 that former prime ministers have been put on trial. Both Ouyahia and Sellal have denied the accusations against them.

The trial opened on Wednesday and a verdict is expected late Sunday or early Monday, according to lawyers.

Former industry ministers Mahdjoub Bedda and Youcef Yousfi are each facing 15 years in jail, while the prosecution is seeking eight-year prison sentences for other defendants, according to the Algerian media reports.

Also standing trial was Ali Haddad, former head of the main Algerian employer organisation, the Forum of Business Leaders (FCE), and Mohamed Bairi, CEO of the Ival group which owns industrial vehicle plant Iveco.

The defendants also include automotive industry tycoons Ahmed Mazouz and Hassane Arbaoui, as well as former public works and transport minister Abdelghani Zaalane.

Defence lawyers have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algerias-interim-president-calls-for-dialogue-to-prepare-new-elections-225135">boycotted the trial</a>, alleging the proceedings are "politicised" and surrounded by a climate of "settling scores".

The state prosecutor has also demanded that the property of the defendants be seized, and called for an international arrest warrant to be issued against Bouchouareb.

The Algerian prosecutor's office Sunday requested 20-year prison sentences for several former politicians accused of corruption, including two prime ministers who served under ex-president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, local media reported.

The Algerian prosecutor's office Sunday requested 20-year prison sentences for several former politicians accused of corruption, including two prime ministers who served under ex-president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, local media reported. The trial is the first resulting from sweeping investigations into graft allegations launched after Bouteflika stepped down in April in the face of mass protests which erupted in February against his bid for a fifth term. In all 19 defendants, two former premiers, other prominent ex-politicians and automotive industry tycoons, face charges ranging from money laundering to abuse of office and granting undue privileges. The state prosecutor is seeking a 20-year prison sentence for ex-premiers Ahmed Ouyahia and Abdelmalek Sellal, local media reported. A similar sentence is requested for former industry minister Abdeslam Bouchouareb, who is being tried in absentia as he has fled abroad. It is the first time since Algeria's independence from France in 1962 that former prime ministers have been put on trial. Both Ouyahia and Sellal have denied the accusations against them. The trial opened on Wednesday and a verdict is expected late Sunday or early Monday, according to lawyers. Former industry ministers Mahdjoub Bedda and Youcef Yousfi are each facing 15 years in jail, while the prosecution is seeking eight-year prison sentences for other defendants, according to the Algerian media reports. Also standing trial was Ali Haddad, former head of the main Algerian employer organisation, the Forum of Business Leaders (FCE), and Mohamed Bairi, CEO of the Ival group which owns industrial vehicle plant Iveco. The defendants also include automotive industry tycoons Ahmed Mazouz and Hassane Arbaoui, as well as former public works and transport minister Abdelghani Zaalane. Defence lawyers have boycotted the trial, alleging the proceedings are "politicised" and surrounded by a climate of "settling scores". The state prosecutor has also demanded that the property of the defendants be seized, and called for an international arrest warrant to be issued against Bouchouareb.

Algeria: Prosecutor seeks heavy sentences against ex-politicians charged with corruption

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-emmanuel-macron-to-hold-meeting-on-pensions-as-strike-bites-266909">France</a> is ready to go to the World Trade Organisation to challenge US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's threat to put tariffs on champagne and other French goods in a row over a French tax on internet companies, its finance minister said on Sunday.

"We are ready to take this to an international court, notably the WTO, because the national tax on digital companies touches US&nbsp;companies in the same way as EU or French companies or Chinese. It is not discriminatory," Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told France 3 television.

Paris has long complained about US&nbsp;digital companies not paying enough tax on revenues earned in France.

In July, the French government decided to apply a 3 per cent&nbsp;levy on revenue from digital services earned in France by firms with more than 25 million euros in French revenue and 750 million euros ($845 million) worldwide.

It is due to kick in retroactively from the start of 2019.

Washington is threatening to retaliate with heavy duties on imports of French champagne, cheeses and luxury handbags, but France and the European Union say they are ready to retaliate in turn if Trump carries out the threat.

Le Maire said France was willing to discuss a global digital tax with the United States at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), but that such a tax could not be optional for internet companies.

"If there is agreement at the OECD, all the better, then we will finally have a global digital tax. If there is no agreement at OECD level, we will restart talks at EU level," Le Maire said.

He added that new EU Commissioner for Economy Paolo Gentiloni had already proposed to restart such talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-unions-call-for-new-protests-strikes-on-tuesday-over-pension-reforms-266676">France pushed ahead with its digital tax</a> after EU member states, under the previous executive European Commission, failed to agree on a levy valid across the bloc after opposition from Ireland, Denmark, Sweden and Finland.

The new European Commission assumed office on December&nbsp;1.

France is ready to go to the World Trade Organisation to challenge US President Donald Trump's threat to put tariffs on champagne and other French goods in a row over a French tax on internet companies, its finance minister said on Sunday.

France is ready to go to the World Trade Organisation to challenge US President Donald Trump's threat to put tariffs on champagne and other French goods in a row over a French tax on internet companies, its finance minister said on Sunday. "We are ready to take this to an international court, notably the WTO, because the national tax on digital companies touches US companies in the same way as EU or French companies or Chinese. It is not discriminatory," Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told France 3 television. Paris has long complained about US digital companies not paying enough tax on revenues earned in France. In July, the French government decided to apply a 3 per cent levy on revenue from digital services earned in France by firms with more than 25 million euros in French revenue and 750 million euros ($845 million) worldwide. It is due to kick in retroactively from the start of 2019. Washington is threatening to retaliate with heavy duties on imports of French champagne, cheeses and luxury handbags, but France and the European Union say they are ready to retaliate in turn if Trump carries out the threat. Le Maire said France was willing to discuss a global digital tax with the United States at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), but that such a tax could not be optional for internet companies. "If there is agreement at the OECD, all the better, then we will finally have a global digital tax. If there is no agreement at OECD level, we will restart talks at EU level," Le Maire said. He added that new EU Commissioner for Economy Paolo Gentiloni had already proposed to restart such talks. France pushed ahead with its digital tax after EU member states, under the previous executive European Commission, failed to agree on a levy valid across the bloc after opposition from Ireland, Denmark, Sweden and Finland. The new European Commission assumed office on December 1.

Ready to take Trump's tariff threat to World Trade Organisation: French Finance Minister Le Maire

Around 200 Syrian displaced people, mostly women and children were heading home from an overcrowded desert camp in the northeast of the war-torn country on Sunday, a Kurdish official said.

Syria's Kurds, after years of fighting the Islamic State group, are holding tens of thousands of civilians and IS relatives in camps for the displaced.

In June, they started sending home Syrian families that had fled their homes during battles against the jihadists from the overpopulated camp of Al-Hol.

A Kurdish official said around <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-800-syrians-start-leaving-crowded-al-hol-camp-223945">200 people were leaving the camp on Sunday</a>, to head back to their villages in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor.

"Most are women and children, with just some men," said Sheikhmous Ahmad, a Kurdish official in charge of the displaced.

The majority were civilians with no ties to IS, he said, while a few might have aligned with the jihadists but today regretted their decision.

The group was headed back to the villages of Hajin, Shaafa or Baghouz, which were the last to be held by IS before US-backed fighters expelled them from the entire area in March.

Ahmad said around 300 people from Al-Hol had already been taken back to the same area last week.

Previously, evacuations had been put on hold after Turkish troops and their Syrian proxies on October 9 launched a blistering military operation against Kurdish forces.

In June, several hundred women and children had returned to the towns of Raqa -- once the de-facto IS capital in Syria -- and Tabqa, both located in the northern province of Raqa.

That area was taken by Kurdish-led forces from IS in October 2017.

The United Nations said the Al-Hol camp's population last month stood at around 70,000 people.

These included more than 30,000 Iraqis, some 28,000 Syrians and over 10,000 foreign nationals -- many of them relatives of alleged jihadist fighters being held in detention.

The Kurdish authorities have repeatedly called on Western nations to repatriate their nationals, but they have been largely reluctant, except in a handful of cases.

Around 200 Syrian displaced people, mostly women and children were heading home from an overcrowded desert camp in the northeast of the war-torn country on Sunday, a Kurdish official said.

Around 200 Syrian displaced people, mostly women and children were heading home from an overcrowded desert camp in the northeast of the war-torn country on Sunday, a Kurdish official said. Syria's Kurds, after years of fighting the Islamic State group, are holding tens of thousands of civilians and IS relatives in camps for the displaced. In June, they started sending home Syrian families that had fled their homes during battles against the jihadists from the overpopulated camp of Al-Hol. A Kurdish official said around 200 people were leaving the camp on Sunday, to head back to their villages in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor. "Most are women and children, with just some men," said Sheikhmous Ahmad, a Kurdish official in charge of the displaced. The majority were civilians with no ties to IS, he said, while a few might have aligned with the jihadists but today regretted their decision. The group was headed back to the villages of Hajin, Shaafa or Baghouz, which were the last to be held by IS before US-backed fighters expelled them from the entire area in March. Ahmad said around 300 people from Al-Hol had already been taken back to the same area last week. Previously, evacuations had been put on hold after Turkish troops and their Syrian proxies on October 9 launched a blistering military operation against Kurdish forces. In June, several hundred women and children had returned to the towns of Raqa -- once the de-facto IS capital in Syria -- and Tabqa, both located in the northern province of Raqa. That area was taken by Kurdish-led forces from IS in October 2017. The United Nations said the Al-Hol camp's population last month stood at around 70,000 people. These included more than 30,000 Iraqis, some 28,000 Syrians and over 10,000 foreign nationals -- many of them relatives of alleged jihadist fighters being held in detention. The Kurdish authorities have repeatedly called on Western nations to repatriate their nationals, but they have been largely reluctant, except in a handful of cases.

Around 200 displaced Syrians leave Al-Hol camp: Kurdish official

Thousands of protesters took part in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-to-meet-with-protest-leaders-colombian-government-265835">anti-government demonstrations in&nbsp;Colombia's</a> capital Bogota and other cities Wednesday during the country's&nbsp;third&nbsp;general&nbsp;strike&nbsp;in two weeks.

Strike&nbsp;leaders say they intend to maintain&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;right-wing President Ivan&nbsp;Duque's government, after brushing aside his appeals to cancel the&nbsp;strike&nbsp;on&nbsp;the grounds its effects were crippling the economy.

But crowds were smaller than previous demonstrations as protests took place for a 14th consecutive day.

Some roads were blocked in the capital and in the northeastern city of Cali, but many businesses remained open.

Around 250,000 people took part in the first demonstration against&nbsp;Duque's 15-month-old government&nbsp;on&nbsp;November 21, when the initial&nbsp;general&nbsp;strike&nbsp;brought the country to a standstill.

Watch: Talks between Colombia strike committee, government end in deadlock

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/talks-between-colombia-strike-committee-government-end-in-deadlock-266191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The Colombian people have woken up!" shouted Paola Jiminez, a 41-year-old lawyer taking part in a pot-banging "cacerolazo" demonstration in Bogota.

"Colombians are finding it more and more difficult financially," she said.

A student taking part in one of several peaceful protests in Bogota, who gave his name as Nicolas, held up a banner saying: "The state lies more than my ex."

Police were deployed in nearby streets, but there were no confrontations of the kind that have marred <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-in-colombia-spark-backlash-against-venezuelan-migrants-265637">some protests</a> over the last two weeks, during which four people died. Some 500 have been injured.

On&nbsp;Tuesday, the Colombian National&nbsp;Strike&nbsp;Committee,&nbsp;comprising unions, students and teacher organisations, indigenous groups and the opposition, met directly with&nbsp;Duque's advisors for the first time but reached no agreement.&nbsp;

Another meeting was scheduled for Thursday.

Under fire for his economic policies and corruption in the country,&nbsp;Duque&nbsp;launched a national dialogue with mayors and other officials 10 days ago.

The&nbsp;strike&nbsp;committee has presented&nbsp;Duque&nbsp;with a list of 13 demands, including the withdrawal of his proposed tax reforms, and full compliance with the 2016 peace deal with FARC guerrillas.

Among them is a call to dismantle the feared ESMAD riot police, widely criticised for its heavy-handed response to protesters.

Duque&nbsp;has yielded to some of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-strikers-expand-demands-include-possible-talks-with-rebels-265296">demands&nbsp;on&nbsp;tax reform</a>, announcing the return of Value Added Tax to the poorest 20 per cent of the population and benefits for companies that hire young people

Thousands of protesters took part in anti-government demonstrations in Colombia's capital Bogota and other cities Wednesday during the country's third general strike in two weeks.

Thousands of protesters took part in anti-government demonstrations in Colombia's capital Bogota and other cities Wednesday during the country's third general strike in two weeks. Strike leaders say they intend to maintain pressure on right-wing President Ivan Duque's government, after brushing aside his appeals to cancel the strike on the grounds its effects were crippling the economy. But crowds were smaller than previous demonstrations as protests took place for a 14th consecutive day. Some roads were blocked in the capital and in the northeastern city of Cali, but many businesses remained open. Around 250,000 people took part in the first demonstration against Duque's 15-month-old government on November 21, when the initial general strike brought the country to a standstill. Watch: Talks between Colombia strike committee, government end in deadlock "The Colombian people have woken up!" shouted Paola Jiminez, a 41-year-old lawyer taking part in a pot-banging "cacerolazo" demonstration in Bogota. "Colombians are finding it more and more difficult financially," she said. A student taking part in one of several peaceful protests in Bogota, who gave his name as Nicolas, held up a banner saying: "The state lies more than my ex." Police were deployed in nearby streets, but there were no confrontations of the kind that have marred some protests over the last two weeks, during which four people died. Some 500 have been injured. On Tuesday, the Colombian National Strike Committee, comprising unions, students and teacher organisations, indigenous groups and the opposition, met directly with Duque's advisors for the first time but reached no agreement. Another meeting was scheduled for Thursday. Under fire for his economic policies and corruption in the country, Duque launched a national dialogue with mayors and other officials 10 days ago. The strike committee has presented Duque with a list of 13 demands, including the withdrawal of his proposed tax reforms, and full compliance with the 2016 peace deal with FARC guerrillas. Among them is a call to dismantle the feared ESMAD riot police, widely criticised for its heavy-handed response to protesters. Duque has yielded to some of the demands on tax reform, announcing the return of Value Added Tax to the poorest 20 per cent of the population and benefits for companies that hire young people

Colombia: Third general strike keeps pressure on Duque

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-says-china-uses-detentions-as-political-tool-247896">China's envoy to the United States</a> on Wednesday said the two countries were trying to resolve their differences over trade, but he warned of forces that he said were trying to drive a wedge between the two, without providing any details.

Ambassador Cui Tiankai, speaking at a dinner hosted by the US-China Business Council, said US-Chinese ties were at a critical crossroads due to trade frictions, but it was possible to return to a better path.

"At the same time, we must be alert that some destructive forces are taking advantage of the ongoing trade friction (through) extreme rhetoric such as 'decoupling,' the 'new Cold War,' and ‘clash of civilisations,'" Cui said.

He urged US&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-using-ai-to-identify-uighurs-across-the-country-reports-210712">Chinese companies</a> keen to expand trade between the two countries to stand up against what he called efforts to "spread hostility and even create conflict between us," as well as "fake news" about the situations in both Hong Kong and Xinjiang, China's troubled western region that is home to a large Uighur Muslim minority, whom some US&nbsp;officials have said are the victims of human rights abuses.

Cui's comments came a day after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said a long-awaited interim trade agreement with China could be delayed until after the US&nbsp;presidential election in November 2020, and amid US&nbsp;legislative moves to address the Uighur issue.

The United States and China have been locked in a bitter trade war for 17 months, with the US&nbsp;government cracking down against a broad range of what it sees as efforts by the Chinese government to steal US&nbsp;technology and dominate global markets.

Anti-government demonstrations in Hong Kong and Beijing's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority have also fanned longstanding human rights concerns. Beijing views US&nbsp;actions on both issues as interference in its sovereign concerns.

The Democratic-led US&nbsp;House of Representatives voted nearly unanimously on Tuesday for a bill that would require the Trump administration to toughen its response to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-used-tiny-chips-on-us-computers-to-steal-secrets-report-169480">China's crackdown</a> on the Uighurs. China warned earlier on Wednesday that the US&nbsp;legislation will affect bilateral cooperation, clouding prospects for a near-term deal to end a trade war.

Cui did not echo those remarks directly but said reports about both the situation in Hong Kong and Xinjiang had been seriously distorted. "Facts are facts no matter how much fake news is generated," he said.

He did not address the US-Chinese trade talks specifically but said Beijing remained committed to expanding bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

China's envoy to the United States on Wednesday said the two countries were trying to resolve their differences over trade, but he warned of forces that he said were trying to drive a wedge between the two, without providing any details.

China's envoy to the United States on Wednesday said the two countries were trying to resolve their differences over trade, but he warned of forces that he said were trying to drive a wedge between the two, without providing any details. Ambassador Cui Tiankai, speaking at a dinner hosted by the US-China Business Council, said US-Chinese ties were at a critical crossroads due to trade frictions, but it was possible to return to a better path. "At the same time, we must be alert that some destructive forces are taking advantage of the ongoing trade friction (through) extreme rhetoric such as 'decoupling,' the 'new Cold War,' and ‘clash of civilisations,'" Cui said. He urged US and Chinese companies keen to expand trade between the two countries to stand up against what he called efforts to "spread hostility and even create conflict between us," as well as "fake news" about the situations in both Hong Kong and Xinjiang, China's troubled western region that is home to a large Uighur Muslim minority, whom some US officials have said are the victims of human rights abuses. Cui's comments came a day after US President Donald Trump said a long-awaited interim trade agreement with China could be delayed until after the US presidential election in November 2020, and amid US legislative moves to address the Uighur issue. The United States and China have been locked in a bitter trade war for 17 months, with the US government cracking down against a broad range of what it sees as efforts by the Chinese government to steal US technology and dominate global markets. Anti-government demonstrations in Hong Kong and Beijing's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority have also fanned longstanding human rights concerns. Beijing views US actions on both issues as interference in its sovereign concerns. The Democratic-led US House of Representatives voted nearly unanimously on Tuesday for a bill that would require the Trump administration to toughen its response to China's crackdown on the Uighurs. China warned earlier on Wednesday that the US legislation will affect bilateral cooperation, clouding prospects for a near-term deal to end a trade war. Cui did not echo those remarks directly but said reports about both the situation in Hong Kong and Xinjiang had been seriously distorted. "Facts are facts no matter how much fake news is generated," he said. He did not address the US-Chinese trade talks specifically but said Beijing remained committed to expanding bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

China's envoy to US warns of 'destructive forces' trying to undermine their relationship

China's top diplomat arrived in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/873-million-fine-against-us-chip-gaint-qualcomm-south-korea-266064">Seoul on Wednesday</a>, visiting South Korea for the first time in more than four years as the two countries seek to repair ties that soured over the deployment of US&nbsp;anti-missile systems in South Korea.

During his two-day stay the State Councillor Wang Yi will meet South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and President Moon Jae-in, officials in Seoul said.

Yi last visited the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/south-korea-to-hold-trade-talks-with-japan-in-december-265163">South Korean capital</a> for a trilateral meeting, also attended by Japan, in 2015.

A year later a row blew up over the planned sitting in South Korea of the US&nbsp;Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system, designed to intercept ballistic missiles.

Beijing said it upset the regional security balance as the system's powerful radar could penetrate into Chinese territory.

South Korea and the United States went ahead regardless, installing the anti-missile system in 2017, saying it was warranted because of North Korea's provocations.

North Korea has test-fired dozens of missiles since Moon Jae-in took office in 2017, most recently on the U.S Thanksgiving holiday last week.

South Korea sees China as instrumental in reviving stalled denuclearisation talks between the United States and North Korea, a longtime ally of Beijing.

Denuclearisation negotiations between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-japan-set-to-back-air-traffic-deal-after-near-misses-265017">North Korea and the United States</a> have hit a stalemate after a day-long working-level meeting in October in Stockholm broke down.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has set an end-year deadline for Washington to reconsider its approach in denuclearisation negotiations after the last talks ended in disagreement. US&nbsp;officials have downplayed the deadline, calling it artificial.

South Korea is seeking to open additional military hotlines with China to improve communications. The two countries' defence ministers discussed the issue on the sidelines of an international conference in Bangkok last month, Seoul's defence ministry said.

China's top diplomat arrived in Seoul on Wednesday, visiting South Korea for the first time in more than four years as the two countries seek to repair ties that soured over the deployment of US anti-missile systems in South Korea.

China's top diplomat arrived in Seoul on Wednesday, visiting South Korea for the first time in more than four years as the two countries seek to repair ties that soured over the deployment of US anti-missile systems in South Korea. During his two-day stay the State Councillor Wang Yi will meet South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and President Moon Jae-in, officials in Seoul said. Yi last visited the South Korean capital for a trilateral meeting, also attended by Japan, in 2015. A year later a row blew up over the planned sitting in South Korea of the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system, designed to intercept ballistic missiles. Beijing said it upset the regional security balance as the system's powerful radar could penetrate into Chinese territory. South Korea and the United States went ahead regardless, installing the anti-missile system in 2017, saying it was warranted because of North Korea's provocations. North Korea has test-fired dozens of missiles since Moon Jae-in took office in 2017, most recently on the U.S Thanksgiving holiday last week. South Korea sees China as instrumental in reviving stalled denuclearisation talks between the United States and North Korea, a longtime ally of Beijing. Denuclearisation negotiations between North Korea and the United States have hit a stalemate after a day-long working-level meeting in October in Stockholm broke down. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has set an end-year deadline for Washington to reconsider its approach in denuclearisation negotiations after the last talks ended in disagreement. US officials have downplayed the deadline, calling it artificial. South Korea is seeking to open additional military hotlines with China to improve communications. The two countries' defence ministers discussed the issue on the sidelines of an international conference in Bangkok last month, Seoul's defence ministry said.

Top Chinese diplomat visits South Korea to improve relations after four-year gap

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fourth-round-of-relief-measures-to-be-introduced-in-hong-kong-carrie-lam-265826">Police in Hong Kong</a> this week re-entered the campus of a university it besieged for more than 10 days last month, gathering newly discovered chemicals and petrol bombs hoarded by anti-government protesters in the Chinese-ruled city.

Following the dramatic saga - where riot police and more than 1,000 demonstrators transformed Hong Kong's Polytechnic University campus into a battleground,&nbsp;officers were called to retrieve additional dangerous items found among the debris and stowed in locked areas.

Between November&nbsp;26 and December&nbsp;2 authorities seized 4,296 petrol bombs, 671 bottles of chemicals and 622 weapons, police said in a statement late on Tuesday.

Officers first entered the Polytechnic campus on November 29, when they collected thousands of petrol bombs, which they dusted for fingerprints, as well as bows and arrows and bottles of chemicals.

The campus conflict began in mid-November when protesters barricaded themselves against riot police in days of violent clashes that marked a significant escalation in the political unrest that has roiled the former British colony for six months.

About 1,100 people were arrested in connection with the campus siege.

Sparked by a controversial and since-withdrawn extradition bill, the protests have swelled into broader calls for greater democratic freedoms.

Those who have joined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slaps-sanctions-on-united-states-for-passing-hong-kong-rights-bill-265730">pro-democracy demonstrations</a> accuse China of increasingly interfering in freedoms promised to the former British colony when it was returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Pro-democracy parties won a resounding victory in local district council elections late last month. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has appealed for peace in the city but has not offered any concessions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-series-of-week-long-lunchtime-protests-begin-265716">Sustained demonstrations, scheduled to continue this week</a> and expected to draw thousands to the streets this weekend, show few signs of abating and are taking an economic toll on the global financial hub.

Business activity in Hong Kong contracted at the fastest pace in 21 years in November, dragged down by the protests and softening global demand, an IHS Markit survey showed on Wednesday.

Asia's largest distributor of luxury brands, the Blubell group, has appealed to Hong Kong landlords to scrap the base rent in shopping malls, saying a slump in tourist spending will push even more retailers out of business.

Sales in some of its stores, two of which are on the verge of closing, have dropped as much as 60 per cent during the six months of protests, Bluebell chief executive Ashley Micklewright told the South China Morning Post.

Hong Kong recorded its largest-ever retail collapse in October, with sales dropping 24.3 per cent to HK$30.1 billion, the government said Monday.

The new figures will extend the technical recession recorded last quarter, with the government preparing to release the fourth round of economic stimulus.

Police in Hong Kong this week re-entered the campus of a university it besieged for more than 10 days last month, gathering newly discovered chemicals and petrol bombs hoarded by anti-government protesters in the Chinese-ruled city.

Police in Hong Kong this week re-entered the campus of a university it besieged for more than 10 days last month, gathering newly discovered chemicals and petrol bombs hoarded by anti-government protesters in the Chinese-ruled city. Following the dramatic saga - where riot police and more than 1,000 demonstrators transformed Hong Kong's Polytechnic University campus into a battleground, officers were called to retrieve additional dangerous items found among the debris and stowed in locked areas. Between November 26 and December 2 authorities seized 4,296 petrol bombs, 671 bottles of chemicals and 622 weapons, police said in a statement late on Tuesday. Officers first entered the Polytechnic campus on November 29, when they collected thousands of petrol bombs, which they dusted for fingerprints, as well as bows and arrows and bottles of chemicals. The campus conflict began in mid-November when protesters barricaded themselves against riot police in days of violent clashes that marked a significant escalation in the political unrest that has roiled the former British colony for six months. About 1,100 people were arrested in connection with the campus siege. Sparked by a controversial and since-withdrawn extradition bill, the protests have swelled into broader calls for greater democratic freedoms. Those who have joined the pro-democracy demonstrations accuse China of increasingly interfering in freedoms promised to the former British colony when it was returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Pro-democracy parties won a resounding victory in local district council elections late last month. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has appealed for peace in the city but has not offered any concessions. Sustained demonstrations, scheduled to continue this week and expected to draw thousands to the streets this weekend, show few signs of abating and are taking an economic toll on the global financial hub. Business activity in Hong Kong contracted at the fastest pace in 21 years in November, dragged down by the protests and softening global demand, an IHS Markit survey showed on Wednesday. Asia's largest distributor of luxury brands, the Blubell group, has appealed to Hong Kong landlords to scrap the base rent in shopping malls, saying a slump in tourist spending will push even more retailers out of business. Sales in some of its stores, two of which are on the verge of closing, have dropped as much as 60 per cent during the six months of protests, Bluebell chief executive Ashley Micklewright told the South China Morning Post. Hong Kong recorded its largest-ever retail collapse in October, with sales dropping 24.3 per cent to HK$30.1 billion, the government said Monday. The new figures will extend the technical recession recorded last quarter, with the government preparing to release the fourth round of economic stimulus.

Hong Kong: Police retrieve another round of petrol bombs from university

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chile-unveils-55-billion-stimulus-plan-as-economy-shrinks-265904">Chile&nbsp;is investigating</a> "excessive internet traffic" that could signal that an&nbsp;Eastern&nbsp;European&nbsp;country stoked weeks of deadly unrest, Foreign Minister Teodoro Ribero said Tuesday.

"Chilean international organisms are investigating whether or not there is direct international&nbsp;interference," Ribero told reporters.

"What we do know is that in the days after October 18, there was an important share of internet use coming from a country in&nbsp;Eastern&nbsp;Europe to&nbsp;Chile," he said.&nbsp;

He did not name the country nor give further details about the nature of the alleged&nbsp;interference.

"There is excessive internet traffic" around that period, Ribero said, including the "creation of false profiles."

Ribera's comments come after Russia denied US accusations that it used online trolling to stir up tensions in&nbsp;Chile, where 23 people have died in weeks of violent demonstrations that swept the South American country from October 18.

In a late October phone call to his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-21-dead-after-bus-flips-in-chile-265797">Chile&nbsp;counterpart Sebastian Pinera</a>, US President Donald Trump "denounced foreign efforts to undermine Chilean institutions, democracy or society," according to the White House.

Chile is investigating "excessive internet traffic" that could signal that an Eastern European country stoked weeks of deadly unrest, Foreign Minister Teodoro Ribero said Tuesday.

Chile is investigating "excessive internet traffic" that could signal that an Eastern European country stoked weeks of deadly unrest, Foreign Minister Teodoro Ribero said Tuesday. "Chilean international organisms are investigating whether or not there is direct international interference," Ribero told reporters. "What we do know is that in the days after October 18, there was an important share of internet use coming from a country in Eastern Europe to Chile," he said. He did not name the country nor give further details about the nature of the alleged interference. "There is excessive internet traffic" around that period, Ribero said, including the "creation of false profiles." Ribera's comments come after Russia denied US accusations that it used online trolling to stir up tensions in Chile, where 23 people have died in weeks of violent demonstrations that swept the South American country from October 18. In a late October phone call to his Chile counterpart Sebastian Pinera, US President Donald Trump "denounced foreign efforts to undermine Chilean institutions, democracy or society," according to the White House.

Chile probes Eastern European interference in protests

High-tech entrepreneur <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-trial-in-us-court-over-pedo-guy-tweet-266004">Elon Musk</a> testified at his defamation trial on Tuesday that his "pedo guy" Twitter message at the centre of the case was not meant to be taken literally and was sent in response to an "unprovoked" insult he received from the man now suing him.

Musk, 48, the billionaire chief executive of electric carmaker Tesla Inc&nbsp;and founder of the rocket company SpaceX, also apologized to the plaintiff from the witness stand in the packed Los Angeles courtroom.

Musk was the first witness called to testify in the lawsuit brought against him by British cave diver who gained fame for his lead role in the rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach from a flooded cave in Thailand last year.

The diver, Vernon Unsworth, has accused Musk of falsely labelling him a paedophile on Twitter and is seeking unspecified punitive and other money damages.

The case stems from an offer Musk made to furnish a mini-submarine to assist in the Tham Luang Nang Non cave rescue in July 2018.

Unsworth told CNN on July 13, 2018, three days after the rescue was successfully completed, that Musk's offer was a "PR stunt" and that Musk should "stick his submarine where it hurts."

Two days later, Musk lashed out at Unsworth in a series of tweets, including one which called the cave diver a "pedo guy." Musk later apologized for the comment, saying the term was a common insult in South Africa where he grew up.

Unsworth has called the slur a lie that harmed his reputation.

'Random, creepy guy'

Under questioning from Unsworth's lawyer, after five women and three men were seated as jurors in the case, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-trial-in-us-court-over-pedo-guy-tweet-266004">Musk insisted the tweet in question</a> was his reaction to "an unprovoked attack on what was a good-natured attempt to help the kids.”

"It was wrong and insulting, and so I insulted him back," Musk said of his exchange with Unsworth, adding, "I thought he was just some random creepy guy” and was "unrelated to the rescue."

Pressed further by the plaintiff's attorney Lin Wood, Musk testified he did not mean for his tweet about Unsworth to be taken literally.

"I assume he did not mean to sodomise me with a submarine ... Just as I didn't literally mean he was a paedophile," he said.

"I apologised in a tweet and again in the (pretrial) deposition, and I'll say it again,&nbsp;I apologise to Mr&nbsp;Unsworth," Musk said looking directly at the plaintiff, who sat stone-faced through Musk's testimony.

Musk was expected to return to the witness stand on Wednesday for more questioning by his own lawyers.

US&nbsp;District Judge Stephen Wilson has explained the case hinges on whether a reasonable person would take Musk's Twitter statement to mean that he was calling Unsworth a paedophile.

To win the defamation case, Unsworth needs to show that Musk was negligent in publishing a falsehood that clearly identified the plaintiff and caused him harm. "Actual malice" on Musk's part does not need to be proven because the judge has deemed Unsworth a private individual rather than a public figure.

Although the case does not involve&nbsp;Tesla, Musk's Twitter habits have long been under close scrutiny, with investors and regulators expressing concerns about his tweets.

With 29.8 million followers, Musk's Twitter account is a major source of publicity for his Palo Alto, California-based electric car company, which does not advertise.

Wood, representing Unsworth, tried to establish that Musk knew he had a high degree of influence with his Twitter followers and the public, and that the veracity of what he said thus carried significant weight.

“People say a lot of things on Twitter that aren’t true,” Musk said.

Musk also acknowledged under oath that he was duped out of $52,000 by a man posing as a private detective to dig up information about Unsworth after it became clear a defamation suit was in the works. The investigator proved to be a con artist, Musk testified.

In an opening statement, lawyer Taylor Wilson, another member of Unsworth's legal team, said the tweet in question was more than a slip-up, and Musk had no business branding Unsworth a predator "in what should have been one of the proudest moments of his life."

Musk lawyer Alex Spiro countered that Unsworth did not act after the tweet like a man who suffered because of it.

"The plaintiff is saying he has been horribly damaged, and deserves money," Spiro said. "He doesn't."

High-tech entrepreneur Elon Musk testified at his defamation trial on Tuesday that his "pedo guy" Twitter message at the centre of the case was not meant to be taken literally and was sent in response to an "unprovoked" insult he received from the man now suing him.

High-tech entrepreneur Elon Musk testified at his defamation trial on Tuesday that his "pedo guy" Twitter message at the centre of the case was not meant to be taken literally and was sent in response to an "unprovoked" insult he received from the man now suing him. Musk, 48, the billionaire chief executive of electric carmaker Tesla Inc and founder of the rocket company SpaceX, also apologized to the plaintiff from the witness stand in the packed Los Angeles courtroom. Musk was the first witness called to testify in the lawsuit brought against him by British cave diver who gained fame for his lead role in the rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach from a flooded cave in Thailand last year. The diver, Vernon Unsworth, has accused Musk of falsely labelling him a paedophile on Twitter and is seeking unspecified punitive and other money damages. The case stems from an offer Musk made to furnish a mini-submarine to assist in the Tham Luang Nang Non cave rescue in July 2018. Unsworth told CNN on July 13, 2018, three days after the rescue was successfully completed, that Musk's offer was a "PR stunt" and that Musk should "stick his submarine where it hurts." Two days later, Musk lashed out at Unsworth in a series of tweets, including one which called the cave diver a "pedo guy." Musk later apologized for the comment, saying the term was a common insult in South Africa where he grew up. Unsworth has called the slur a lie that harmed his reputation. 'Random, creepy guy' Under questioning from Unsworth's lawyer, after five women and three men were seated as jurors in the case, Musk insisted the tweet in question was his reaction to "an unprovoked attack on what was a good-natured attempt to help the kids.” "It was wrong and insulting, and so I insulted him back," Musk said of his exchange with Unsworth, adding, "I thought he was just some random creepy guy” and was "unrelated to the rescue." Pressed further by the plaintiff's attorney Lin Wood, Musk testified he did not mean for his tweet about Unsworth to be taken literally. "I assume he did not mean to sodomise me with a submarine ... Just as I didn't literally mean he was a paedophile," he said. "I apologised in a tweet and again in the (pretrial) deposition, and I'll say it again, I apologise to Mr Unsworth," Musk said looking directly at the plaintiff, who sat stone-faced through Musk's testimony. Musk was expected to return to the witness stand on Wednesday for more questioning by his own lawyers. US District Judge Stephen Wilson has explained the case hinges on whether a reasonable person would take Musk's Twitter statement to mean that he was calling Unsworth a paedophile. To win the defamation case, Unsworth needs to show that Musk was negligent in publishing a falsehood that clearly identified the plaintiff and caused him harm. "Actual malice" on Musk's part does not need to be proven because the judge has deemed Unsworth a private individual rather than a public figure. Although the case does not involve Tesla, Musk's Twitter habits have long been under close scrutiny, with investors and regulators expressing concerns about his tweets. With 29.8 million followers, Musk's Twitter account is a major source of publicity for his Palo Alto, California-based electric car company, which does not advertise. Wood, representing Unsworth, tried to establish that Musk knew he had a high degree of influence with his Twitter followers and the public, and that the veracity of what he said thus carried significant weight. “People say a lot of things on Twitter that aren’t true,” Musk said. Musk also acknowledged under oath that he was duped out of $52,000 by a man posing as a private detective to dig up information about Unsworth after it became clear a defamation suit was in the works. The investigator proved to be a con artist, Musk testified. In an opening statement, lawyer Taylor Wilson, another member of Unsworth's legal team, said the tweet in question was more than a slip-up, and Musk had no business branding Unsworth a predator "in what should have been one of the proudest moments of his life." Musk lawyer Alex Spiro countered that Unsworth did not act after the tweet like a man who suffered because of it. "The plaintiff is saying he has been horribly damaged, and deserves money," Spiro said. "He doesn't."

'Pedo guy' tweet not meant to be taken literally: Elon Musk

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