Western leaders are stepping up pressure on Moscow ahead of the security talks with Russia. The top American diplomat Antony Blinken has said that the upcoming dialogue will not succeed so long as a gun is pointed towards Ukraine's head.

Antony Blinken: No progress with a gun to Ukraine's head

Amid global condemnation from world powers, North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal.

North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal

In a further escalation in hostilities in the Yemen war, the Houthi rebels have seized an Emirati flagship in the red sea. According to the Houthis, the vessel was full to the deck with weapons military jeeps, and other ammunition.

Houthi rebels have seized an Emirati flagship in the red sea

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day:&nbsp;Read about WHO's warning regarding the "milder" Omicron variant, what a top UK scientist who helped create Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine has to say about booster shots and their feasibility.&nbsp;Additionally, find out the latest CDC Covid guidelines and the scientific rationale behind them as per the agency.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-omicron-cases-may-lead-to-more-dangerous-variants-warns-who-442321">Rising Omicron cases may lead to more dangerous variants, warns WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/05/231413-t.jpg" />The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the rise in Omicron cases-which has quickly become the dominant variant-could pave the way for a new, more dangerous variant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/check-out-cdcs-new-covid-guidelines-and-the-scientific-rationale-behind-them-442306">Check out CDC's new COVID guidelines and the scientific rationale behind them</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/05/231397-stories.jpg" />The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explained the scientific reasoning behind shortening the isolation and quarantine guidelines for COVID-19, which apply to children as well. In the guidance released on Dec. 27, isolate restrictions were reduced for people with COVID-19 from 10 to five days if they do not have symptoms or a fever.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-over-fuel-price-hike-kazakhstan-declares-state-of-emergency-in-cities-hit-by-unrest-442311">Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/05/231400-stories-1.jpg" />Kazakhstan's president declared states of emergency in Almaty and an oil-rich part of the country as protests over a regional price increase of energy swept the country. Since late Tuesday, Almaty, Kazakhstan's financial capital, has been in chaos after police fired tear gas and stun grenades to quell protests over a spike in LPG prices.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-sustainable-to-vaccinate-the-planet-every-6-months-says-oxford-vaccine-co-creator-442308">Not sustainable to vaccinate the planet every 6 months, says Oxford vaccine co-creator</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/03/181106-untitled-design.jpg" />

A top UK scientist who helped develop the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine have spoken out against the need for booster shots, saying that inoculating everyone multiple times would not be feasible.

Watch |&nbsp;Brazil's vital 'water tank' under threat as deforestation jumps in world's largest Savanna

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazils-vital-water-tank-under-threat-as-deforestation-jumps-in-worlds-largest-savanna-442307/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: Read about WHO's warning regarding the "milder" Omicron variant, what a top UK scientist who helped create Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine has to say about booster shots and their feasibility.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: Read about WHO's warning regarding the "milder" Omicron variant, what a top UK scientist who helped create Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine has to say about booster shots and their feasibility. Additionally, find out the latest CDC Covid guidelines and the scientific rationale behind them as per the agency. Click on headlines to read more Rising Omicron cases may lead to more dangerous variants, warns WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the rise in Omicron cases-which has quickly become the dominant variant-could pave the way for a new, more dangerous variant. Check out CDC's new COVID guidelines and the scientific rationale behind them The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explained the scientific reasoning behind shortening the isolation and quarantine guidelines for COVID-19, which apply to children as well. In the guidance released on Dec. 27, isolate restrictions were reduced for people with COVID-19 from 10 to five days if they do not have symptoms or a fever. Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest Kazakhstan's president declared states of emergency in Almaty and an oil-rich part of the country as protests over a regional price increase of energy swept the country. Since late Tuesday, Almaty, Kazakhstan's financial capital, has been in chaos after police fired tear gas and stun grenades to quell protests over a spike in LPG prices. Not sustainable to vaccinate the planet every 6 months, says Oxford vaccine co-creator A top UK scientist who helped develop the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine have spoken out against the need for booster shots, saying that inoculating everyone multiple times would not be feasible. Watch | Brazil's vital 'water tank' under threat as deforestation jumps in world's largest Savanna

Morning news brief: WHO warning about Omicron, Kazakhstan's state of emergency and more

The electric vehicle market leader Tesla has announced that it has opened a new dealership in Urumqi, which is the capital of Xinjiang in China. American activists are appealing to Tesla to cease what they call economic support for genocide.

Tesla inc opens new showroom in China's Xinjiang region

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the first part of the report of the inquiry into allegations of corruption during his predecessor Jacob Zuma’s rule.

South Africa: Former president Zuma accused of plundering state coffers

It was supposed to be a new year, a post-pandemic 2022 one, where we put the pandemic behind us. Instead, it is the year of a new variant one that is wreaking havoc across the world omicron is currently shaking the globe to its core.

Omicron is currently shaking the world to its core, hospitals in US and UK run out of staff

In China, three cases of Covid 19 were enough for the Chinese authorities to lock down an entire city of almost 1.2 million people. Now in China's Yuzhou city, people are being confined to their homes in a bid to mitigate the recent local Covid 19 outbreak.

China: Over 1.2 Million residents in Yuzhou city ordered not to leave home

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day:&nbsp;In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided.&nbsp;In other news, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that public hospitals are about to face "considerable pressure" as Omicron virus rips through the nation. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has said that Washington would act "decisively" if Russia invades Ukraine.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-joint-statement-unsc-permanent-members-call-to-avoid-nuke-war-arms-spread-442087" hreflang="en">In statement, UNSC permanent members call to avoid nuke war, arms’ spread</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/04/231208-nuke.jpg" />These five nations, who are the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, look to avoid war between the nuclear states and reduce strategic risks. They also want to work with all nations to create an atmosphere of security. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-hospitals-to-face-considerable-pressure-says-pm-johnson-amid-record-omicron-cases-442089">UK hospitals to face ‘pressure’, says PM Johnson amid record Omicron cases</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/24/228761-stories-11.jpg" />The prime minister said the country was in a “much better position” than this time last year thanks to vaccinations.&nbsp;Defending his move to impose lighter restrictions, he said, “Mixture of things we're doing at the moment were the correct measures.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-act-decisively-if-russia-invades-says-biden-in-phone-call-with-ukraine-president-442093">US will act ‘decisively’ if Russia invades: Biden to Ukraine President</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/01/230740-joe-biden.jpg" />Biden made the stern warning while talking to Zelenskyy over a phone call on Sunday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said, as Russia reportedly continues to spruce up its troops on the Ukrainian borders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-states-chief-minister-arvind-kejriwal-contracts-covid-isolates-self-at-home-442092">Indian state’s CM Arvind Kejriwal contracts Covid, isolates self at home</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/19/191980-untitled-design.jpg" />In yet another high-profile Covid positive case, Arvind Kejriwal, who is chief minister of India’s state of Delhi, confirmed on Tuesday that he has contracted coronavirus.&nbsp;The leader has also isolated himself at home. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US FDA authorises Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster for children ages 12 to 15

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Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided. In other news, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that public hospitals are about to face "considerable pressure" as Omicron virus rips through the nation. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has said that Washington would act "decisively" if Russia invades Ukraine. Click on headlines to read more In statement, UNSC permanent members call to avoid nuke war, arms’ spread These five nations, who are the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, look to avoid war between the nuclear states and reduce strategic risks. They also want to work with all nations to create an atmosphere of security. UK hospitals to face ‘pressure’, says PM Johnson amid record Omicron cases The prime minister said the country was in a “much better position” than this time last year thanks to vaccinations. Defending his move to impose lighter restrictions, he said, “Mixture of things we're doing at the moment were the correct measures.” US will act ‘decisively’ if Russia invades: Biden to Ukraine President Biden made the stern warning while talking to Zelenskyy over a phone call on Sunday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said, as Russia reportedly continues to spruce up its troops on the Ukrainian borders. Indian state’s CM Arvind Kejriwal contracts Covid, isolates self at home In yet another high-profile Covid positive case, Arvind Kejriwal, who is chief minister of India’s state of Delhi, confirmed on Tuesday that he has contracted coronavirus. The leader has also isolated himself at home. Watch | US FDA authorises Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster for children ages 12 to 15

Morning news brief: Biden's warning to Russia, UNSC on nuclear arms spread and more

Deforestation has risen to its highest level since 2015, especially at the world's most species-rich and largest savannah called the Cerrado in Brazil. It is the bio-diversity hot spot of the planet. Watch this video to know more.

Deforestation jumps in world''s largest savanna Cerrado, Brazil

Britain's Prince Andrew is facing a crucial week in his fight against a sexual assault lawsuit. A secret settlement from 2009 has been made public as a part of Virginia Giuffre's 2021 civil lawsuit against Andrew.

Jeffrey Epstein and Virginia Giuffre's secret settlement deal from 2009 released

The government in France has revamped quarantine rules for the infected, and it is planning to bring in stricter restrictions for the unvaccinated starting today.

French government revamps quarantine rules for the infected

To get your day started, here are some stories.&nbsp;Sudan's PM announces resignation after&nbsp;failing to build consensus.

You can also read about&nbsp;Americans thinking violence against government can be justified as per new polls and&nbsp;US defense secretary testing positive for Covid.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/failing-to-build-consensus-sudans-prime-minister-abdalla-hamdok-announces-resignation-441863">Failing to build consensus, Sudan's PM announces resignation</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9232b22f-ba1d-4fd5-a2d7-b72370d16398" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SUdan%20%281%29.jpg" />

Under immense pressure from widespread pro-democracy protests, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has announced his resignation.&nbsp;The country has been facing political deadlock after a military coup derailed its transition to democratic rule. Hamdok has not named a successor.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/americans-think-violence-against-government-can-be-justified-new-polls-find-441854">Americans think violence against government can be justified, new polls find</a>

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As per the results of two polls released on Sunday, one year after the violent assault on the US Capitol, Americans remain genuinely concerned about the health of their democracy, with approximately a third believing that violence against the government can occasionally be justifiable.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-secretary-lloyd-austin-tests-positive-for-covid-experiences-mild-symptoms-441857">US defense secretary tests positive for Covid, experiences mild symptoms</a>

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US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has tested positive for Covid. The leader is experiencing mild symptoms and has been quarantining at home. The development is one of the Biden administration’s most high-profile breakthrough coronavirus infections.&nbsp;He was fully vaccinated and also received a booster dose in October.

&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-witnesses-highest-covid-19-case-spike-this-week-amid-omicron-spread-441864" hreflang="en">US witnesses highest COVID-19 case spike this week amid Omicron spread</a>

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To get your day started, here are some stories. Sudan's PM announces resignation after failing to build consensus. You can also read about Americans thinking violence against government can be justified as per new polls and US defense secretary testing positive for Covid.

To get your day started, here are some stories. Sudan's PM announces resignation after failing to build consensus. You can also read about Americans thinking violence against government can be justified as per new polls and US defense secretary testing positive for Covid. Failing to build consensus, Sudan's PM announces resignation Under immense pressure from widespread pro-democracy protests, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has announced his resignation. The country has been facing political deadlock after a military coup derailed its transition to democratic rule. Hamdok has not named a successor. Americans think violence against government can be justified, new polls find As per the results of two polls released on Sunday, one year after the violent assault on the US Capitol, Americans remain genuinely concerned about the health of their democracy, with approximately a third believing that violence against the government can occasionally be justifiable. US defense secretary tests positive for Covid, experiences mild symptoms US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has tested positive for Covid. The leader is experiencing mild symptoms and has been quarantining at home. The development is one of the Biden administration’s most high-profile breakthrough coronavirus infections. He was fully vaccinated and also received a booster dose in October. Watch: US witnesses highest COVID-19 case spike this week amid Omicron spread ×

Morning news brief: Sudan PM's resignation, US def secy contracts Covid and more

January 6 capitol riots in 2021 shook the world. The world's biggest democracy was under threat. But it also unmasked how easily Americans waged violence against its own government. Washington Post and the Maryland University have launched a poll to understand if the violence against the govt can be justified.

Washington Post, University of Maryland conduct poll on capitol riots of 2021

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day:&nbsp;On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire.&nbsp;After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday. In other news, a media report has stated that UK is planning to&nbsp;&nbsp;to ease immigration rules for Indian citizens by planning to offer cheaper visas as part of the upcoming trade talks that is set to take place in New Delhi.&nbsp; Meanwhile,&nbsp;three people were killed and four others were injured during a party during an indiscriminate shooting at a New year's Party in US. &nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-gaza-militants-celebrate-new-year-with-exchange-of-rocket-fire-441686" hreflang="en">Israeli military, Gaza militants 'celebrate' New Year with rocket fire</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/02/230838-gaza-1.jpg" />According to the Israeli military, the attacks looked to destroy a rocket manufacturing facility and a military post of Hamas. &nbsp;&nbsp;The military also blamed the militant group for any violence emerging from its territory.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-new-years-party-shooting-in-us-3-dead-4-injured-441693">At New Year's party shooting in US, 3 dead, 4 injured</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/02/230847-police.jpg" />At the party, several people had gathered. The incident occurred just minutes before the end of 2021. &nbsp;At the Gulfport New Year's party shooting, no arrests have been made till now. The investigators are still going through the chaotic scene. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-planning-to-ease-visa-rules-for-indian-citizens-to-clinch-trade-deal-report-441691">UK mulling to ease visa rules for Indian citizens to clinch trade deal: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/02/230846-uk.jpg" />UK International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan will be travelling to Delhi this month for formal negotiations on the proposed India-UK free trade agreement (FTA). According to the Times newspaper, Trevelyan will be using the visit to open the prospect of relaxing immigration rules for Indian citizens — a key demand from Delhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-torch-874-cars-on-new-years-eve-as-part-of-decades-old-tradition-441697" hreflang="en">French torch 874 cars on New Year’s Eve as part of decades old tradition</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/02/230852-car.png" />The French authorities say that there has been a drop in the number of cars torched this New Year’s Eve due to the Covid pandemic. Compared to the 874 cars burnt&nbsp;at the end of 2021, 2019 New Year’s Eve witnessed 1,316 cars being torched, the Interior Ministry said.

Watch |&nbsp;UK Study on Omicron hospitalisation rates: Hospitalisation risk one-third of Delta

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Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: On New Year, Israel and Gaza Strip seem to be celebrating the moment with a pinch of rocket fire. After Gaza Strip fired rockets a day earlier, Israel's military launched strikes against militant targets in the Hamas-ruled territory early on Sunday. In other news, a media report has stated that UK is planning to to ease immigration rules for Indian citizens by planning to offer cheaper visas as part of the upcoming trade talks that is set to take place in New Delhi. Meanwhile, three people were killed and four others were injured during a party during an indiscriminate shooting at a New year's Party in US. Click on headlines to read more Israeli military, Gaza militants 'celebrate' New Year with rocket fire According to the Israeli military, the attacks looked to destroy a rocket manufacturing facility and a military post of Hamas. The military also blamed the militant group for any violence emerging from its territory. At New Year's party shooting in US, 3 dead, 4 injured At the party, several people had gathered. The incident occurred just minutes before the end of 2021. At the Gulfport New Year's party shooting, no arrests have been made till now. The investigators are still going through the chaotic scene. UK mulling to ease visa rules for Indian citizens to clinch trade deal: Report UK International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan will be travelling to Delhi this month for formal negotiations on the proposed India-UK free trade agreement (FTA). According to the Times newspaper, Trevelyan will be using the visit to open the prospect of relaxing immigration rules for Indian citizens — a key demand from Delhi. French torch 874 cars on New Year’s Eve as part of decades old tradition The French authorities say that there has been a drop in the number of cars torched this New Year’s Eve due to the Covid pandemic. Compared to the 874 cars burnt at the end of 2021, 2019 New Year’s Eve witnessed 1,316 cars being torched, the Interior Ministry said. Watch | UK Study on Omicron hospitalisation rates: Hospitalisation risk one-third of Delta

Morning news brief: Israel launches airstrikes, UK visa for Indians and more

A mix of meat, vegetables, pasta and the squash for which it is named, Haitians enjoy joumou soup every January 1 to celebrate the new year and their country's independence. Before it became a symbol of Haiti's freedom, the soup was one of oppression.

Haiti's traditional joumou soup reminds of country's independence

To get your day started, here are some stories. In&nbsp;stampede at India’s Vaishno Devi shrine, 12 people have lost lives, while 20 have got hurt.&nbsp;

You can also read about&nbsp;Kim Jong Un shifting focus from nukes to economic development for 2022 and&nbsp;UK recording warmest New Year’s Eve.

Please click on the headline to read the full story.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stampede-at-indias-vaishno-devi-shrine-12-lose-lives-20-get-hurt-441529">Stampede at India’s Vaishno Devi shrine: 12 lose lives, 20 get hurt</a>

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Around 12 people lost their lives and 20 others got hurt after a stampede occurred due to a heavy rush of devotees at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;The devotees had come in large numbers to pay their obeisance to mark beginning of the New Year.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/change-of-heart-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-shifts-focus-from-nukes-to-economic-development-for-2022-441536">Kim Jong Un shifts focus from nukes to economic development for 2022</a>

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un seems to have been shifting focus from nuclear weapons or the United States to tractor factories and school uniforms for 2022. The indications seem to have come up during a speech given by the leader at the end of the 4th Plenary Meeting of the 8th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-2021-on-a-warm-note-uk-records-warmest-new-years-eve-441534">Ending 2021 on a warm note: UK records warmest New Year’s Eve</a>

<img alt="Brief 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce88767b-40cc-4fab-b038-36a2e0d09acb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/DJ3_0.JPG" />

On Friday, the UK ended the New Year’s Eve on a warm note—quite literally—as the country experienced its warmest day on record with temperatures hovering around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit), the Met Office said.

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Watch | COVID News: Cases soar in France fueled by Omicron variant

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To get your day started, here are some stories. In stampede at India’s Vaishno Devi shrine, 12 people have lost lives, while 20 have got hurt. You can also read about Kim Jong Un shifting focus from nukes to economic development for 2022 and UK recording warmest New Year’s Eve.

To get your day started, here are some stories. In stampede at India’s Vaishno Devi shrine, 12 people have lost lives, while 20 have got hurt. You can also read about Kim Jong Un shifting focus from nukes to economic development for 2022 and UK recording warmest New Year’s Eve. Please click on the headline to read the full story. Stampede at India’s Vaishno Devi shrine: 12 lose lives, 20 get hurt Around 12 people lost their lives and 20 others got hurt after a stampede occurred due to a heavy rush of devotees at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The devotees had come in large numbers to pay their obeisance to mark beginning of the New Year. Kim Jong Un shifts focus from nukes to economic development for 2022 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un seems to have been shifting focus from nuclear weapons or the United States to tractor factories and school uniforms for 2022. The indications seem to have come up during a speech given by the leader at the end of the 4th Plenary Meeting of the 8th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). Ending 2021 on a warm note: UK records warmest New Year’s Eve On Friday, the UK ended the New Year’s Eve on a warm note—quite literally—as the country experienced its warmest day on record with temperatures hovering around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit), the Met Office said. Watch | COVID News: Cases soar in France fueled by Omicron variant ×

Morning news brief: Vaishno Devi stampede, Kim Jong Un's focus for 2022 and more

To get your day started, here are some stories. US President Joe&nbsp;Biden affirms sanctions threat while Putin said it would be colossal mistake during call. And numerous homes are lost and tens of thousands of people get evacuated as US wildfires cause havoc.

You can also read about&nbsp;four people getting killed and 15 injured in blast in Pakistan's Balochistan capital, Quetta and&nbsp;Israel looking to administer fourth dose of vaccine to most vulnerable to COVID-19.

Please click on the headline to read the full story.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-talks-biden-affirms-sanctions-threat-putin-says-that-would-be-colossal-mistake-441294">Biden affirms sanctions threat; Putin says that would be colossal mistake</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50814746-c2cf-4849-bec2-758bd7522f3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EO1.JPG" />

US President Joe Biden spoke for over an hour with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, agreeing to continue and advance their communication ahead of a summit in Geneva early next year.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/numerous-homes-lost-tens-of-thousands-evacuated-as-wildfires-cause-havoc-in-us-441297">Numerous homes lost, tens of thousands evacuated as US wildfires cause havoc</a>

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Devastating wildfires are raging in the US state of Colorado. Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated even as around 580 homes, a shopping centre and a hotel have already been lost to the wildfires outside Denver.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-killed-15-injured-in-blast-in-pakistans-balochistan-capital-quetta-441293">Four killed, 15 injured in blast in Pakistan's Balochistan capital Quetta</a>

<img alt="Brief 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3898abc7-a923-479d-aee1-d3c2f1586722" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EO2.JPG" />

A bomb exploded in Pakistan's southwestern Quetta city, the headquarters of Balochistan province, killing at least four people and injuring 15 more.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-administer-fourth-dose-of-vaccine-to-most-vulnerable-to-covid-19-441307">Israel to administer fourth dose of vaccine to most vulnerable to COVID-19</a>

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Israel has decided to administer a fourth dose of vaccine to people, who are most vulnerable to COVID-19. The country has become the first country to do so.&nbsp;

To get your day started, here are some stories. US President Joe Biden affirms sanctions threat while Putin said it would be colossal mistake during call. And numerous homes are lost and tens of thousands of people get evacuated as US wildfires cause havoc.

To get your day started, here are some stories. US President Joe Biden affirms sanctions threat while Putin said it would be colossal mistake during call. And numerous homes are lost and tens of thousands of people get evacuated as US wildfires cause havoc. You can also read about four people getting killed and 15 injured in blast in Pakistan's Balochistan capital, Quetta and Israel looking to administer fourth dose of vaccine to most vulnerable to COVID-19. Please click on the headline to read the full story. Biden affirms sanctions threat; Putin says that would be colossal mistake US President Joe Biden spoke for over an hour with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, agreeing to continue and advance their communication ahead of a summit in Geneva early next year. Numerous homes lost, tens of thousands evacuated as US wildfires cause havoc Devastating wildfires are raging in the US state of Colorado. Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated even as around 580 homes, a shopping centre and a hotel have already been lost to the wildfires outside Denver. Four killed, 15 injured in blast in Pakistan's Balochistan capital Quetta A bomb exploded in Pakistan's southwestern Quetta city, the headquarters of Balochistan province, killing at least four people and injuring 15 more. Israel to administer fourth dose of vaccine to most vulnerable to COVID-19 Israel has decided to administer a fourth dose of vaccine to people, who are most vulnerable to COVID-19. The country has become the first country to do so.

Morning news brief: Biden-Putin call, US wildfires and more

The ongoing spread of the new variant has dashed hopes for many of celebrations on New Year's eve. Some major cities in Europe have already announced their flat out cancellation plans others still plan to hold their traditional iconic celebrations although at times scaled back and with caution. So who is cancelling new year's celebrations and who isn't.

New Year's Event: Who is cancelling and who is gong forward?

Pakistan has inducted a squadron of Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets. Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed says the jets are a 'counter' to India's Rafale jets. Are they really? Palki Sharma has this to say.

Gravitas: This is Pakistan's 'counter' to Rafale jets

The world will usher in the New Year in the midst of another wave of the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand has ushered in the year 2022, here are some visuals.

New Zealand welcomes New Year 2022 amid Covid-19 pandemic

US has now appointed an envoy, Rina Amiri who will deal with growing issues pertaining to human rights in Afghanistan. "As Special Envoy, she will work on issues of critical importance to me, this Administration, and U.S. national security: the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women, girls, and other at-risk populations in all of their diversity," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

US appoints envoy Rina Amiri to deal with growing issues pertaining to human rights in Afghanistan

Professor of Pediatrics at Emory University, Mehul Suthar spoke to WION on the growing threat of Omicron variant across the globe. He also spoke on the symptoms that help one to identify the variant and how to keep safe from it.

Mehul Suthar, Professor of Pediatrics at Emory University speaks on looming Omicron variant threat

China has approved plans to build four mega clusters of data centres in countries north and west. Watch this report for more.

China approves four mega clusters of data centres

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day:&nbsp;US top medical chief Anthony Fauci has predicted that Omicron cases are likely to peak by January-end. He said that the cases would go higher since many people are still hesitant to take Covid vaccine. In other news,&nbsp;Chinese officials have increased travel restrictions in Tibet ahead of the Beijing Winter Olympics, and have placed a strong police presence in Lhasa, the regional capital. Meanwhile, China has warned of dire consequence if Taiwan continues to pursue ambitions of seeking independence.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-omicron-cases-could-peak-by-january-end-says-top-medical-chief-fauci-441062">US Omicron cases could peak by January-end, says top medical chief Fauci</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/28/184807-untitled-design-17.jpg" />Omicron has been fuelling fresh COVID-19 wave in the US with the new variant recording 59 per cent of all coronavirus cases in the country. According to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker, the US recorded 265,427 COVID-19 cases in a week, which was the highest since January this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heavy-travel-restrictions-imposed-in-tibet-ahead-of-beijing-winter-olympics-report-441060">Heavy travel restrictions imposed in Tibet ahead of Beijing Winter Olympics: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/08/148795-chinese-troops.jpg" />According to a source quoted by Radio Free Asia, Beijing is imposing limits on Tibetans' movements in the area by beefing up security in the area.&nbsp; Last Monday, China's Information Service announced that during the Olympic Games, visitors to the nation will be closely monitored.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-drastic-measures-if-taiwan-demands-independence-china-441059">Will take drastic measures if Taiwan demands independence: China</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/11/10/220988-ppp11.jpg" />A Beijing official warned on Wednesday that if Taiwan advances toward formal independence, China will take "severe measures," adding that Taiwan's provocations and outside meddling could worsen next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-children-among-8-killed-in-mexico-gun-attack-441071">Two children among 8 killed in Mexico gun attack</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/30/230236-gub.jpg" />The assailants were reportedly targeting four men who were at one home, killing them and a woman, the authorities said.&nbsp;The gangs have been fighting over control of the lucrative drug trafficking and stolen fuel markets.

Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden, counterpart Putin to speak on phone-call

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-conterpart-putin-to-speak-on-phone-call-441070/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: US top medical chief Anthony Fauci has predicted that Omicron cases are likely to peak by January-end. He said that the cases would go higher since many people are still hesitant to take Covid vaccine.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: US top medical chief Anthony Fauci has predicted that Omicron cases are likely to peak by January-end. He said that the cases would go higher since many people are still hesitant to take Covid vaccine. In other news, Chinese officials have increased travel restrictions in Tibet ahead of the Beijing Winter Olympics, and have placed a strong police presence in Lhasa, the regional capital. Meanwhile, China has warned of dire consequence if Taiwan continues to pursue ambitions of seeking independence. Click on headlines to read more US Omicron cases could peak by January-end, says top medical chief Fauci Omicron has been fuelling fresh COVID-19 wave in the US with the new variant recording 59 per cent of all coronavirus cases in the country. According to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker, the US recorded 265,427 COVID-19 cases in a week, which was the highest since January this year. Heavy travel restrictions imposed in Tibet ahead of Beijing Winter Olympics: Report According to a source quoted by Radio Free Asia, Beijing is imposing limits on Tibetans' movements in the area by beefing up security in the area. Last Monday, China's Information Service announced that during the Olympic Games, visitors to the nation will be closely monitored. Will take drastic measures if Taiwan demands independence: China A Beijing official warned on Wednesday that if Taiwan advances toward formal independence, China will take "severe measures," adding that Taiwan's provocations and outside meddling could worsen next year. Two children among 8 killed in Mexico gun attack The assailants were reportedly targeting four men who were at one home, killing them and a woman, the authorities said. The gangs have been fighting over control of the lucrative drug trafficking and stolen fuel markets. Watch | US President Joe Biden, counterpart Putin to speak on phone-call

Morning news brief: Fauci's Omicron prediction, China's warning to Taiwan and more

It has been two years since COVID pandemic started. During this time there have been multiple waves and millions of live were lost. Globally a total of 6.55 million COVID cases were detected between 22nd and 28th of Dec. This is the highest figure since the WHO declared it a pandemic in March 2020.

World hits record weekly infections related to Coronavirus

There is a hidden natural gem in Colombia. It has emerged from a prison that instilled terror in the country. It is called the Gorgona island. Take a look at our next report.

Colombia's magical island transformed to an eco-tourism spot

In a demonstration of the extent of the rainfall after heavy storms lashed the city, a child in California South Lake Tahoe submerged himself completely in snow. Footage from the Californian city showed an excited boy jumping into a thick layer of snow that covered his entire body.

Heavy snowstorm lashes northern California

A brawl erupted in Kenya's parliament on Wednesday as lawmakers were debating a controversial bill governing political parties ahead of next year's election.

Brawl erupts in Kenyan parliament

As the unresolved India-China border border standoff continues to brew tensions, latest media reports claim that China is sending machine gun carrying robots at the border to further fuel the conflict.

China sends machine gun carrying robots near LAC to fuel conflict

Russia's supreme court has ordered the closure of the country's most prominent rights group, memorial international. Prosecutors accused the memorial of creating a false image of USSR as a terrorist state.

Russian SC orders closure of country's prominent rights group

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