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<p>Archaeologists have discovered a labyrinth of tunnels under the Incan Temple of the Sun in Cusco, Peruvian Andes. Some of them stretch for 1.6 kilometres, and confirm what has been suspected for several years. This labyrinth is known as a chincana and does not find a direct reference in any texts, except vague hints. One of the historical texts dates as far back as the 16th century. Now, we finally have confirmation that this labyrinth of tunnels was real. A main branch connects the temple to the fortress of Sacsahuaman, around two kilometres away, archaeologist Jorge Calero Flores said at a news conference. His team found three smaller branches—one near the Church of San Cristóbal, another to an area near the fortress, and a third to an area known as Callispuquio.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Flores added that the tunnel system is roughly 8.5 feet wide and 5.2 feet high. "We suspect that the Inca could have been carried in litters through there," he was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post, adding that the Inca people built these tunnels. Construction included digging up the trenches and then adding stone walls and carved-beam ceilings for support. According to the Flores team, the tunnels mirrored the above-ground street network of the ancient Incan city of Cusco.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mexico-s-yucatan-peninsula-is-hiding-world-s-longest-underwater-cave-filled-with-ice-palaces-and-sinkholes-1764075399743"><strong>Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is hiding world's longest underwater cave filled with ice palaces and sinkholes</strong></a></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/leonardo-da-vinci-painting-secret-tunnels-italian-castle-1748314075573"><strong>Secret tunnels seen only in Leonardo da Vinci's painting have been discovered under an ancient Italian castle</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Ancient texts carried accounts of tunnels in Inca</strong></h2><p>The team found clues about the tunnels in the 16th-century Jesuit texts and another document by a chronicler named Anello de Oliva. The first one carried an account by an anonymous Spanish Jesuit who wrote about a tunnel in 1594 connecting the bishop’s housing to the Cusco Cathedral. This was a hint that this tunnel originated at the Temple of the Sun. The second one by de Oliva discussed multiple underground passages in the city. There were accounts of how construction workers made sure not to disturb the tunnel network that started at a cave in the fortress.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/20000-year-old-labyrinth-with-3000-rooms-lies-under-egypt-pyramid-9012892"><strong>20,000-year-old labyrinth with 3,000 rooms lies under Egypt pyramid, centuries-old claim resurfaces</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>To create a specific map of Chincana, the researchers first checked for hollow areas using acoustic prospecting. Then they proceeded to deploy ground-penetrating radar on these areas, leading to the detection of the tunnel labyrinth. The researchers are now planning to enter these tunnels to learn more about them.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

Folklore, rumours and beliefs about the presence of a complex tunnel system under the Incan Temple of the Sun in Cusco have all been confirmed. Scientists have found a labyrinth known as a chincana in this region, which supposedly mirrored the streets above.

Archaeologists have discovered a labyrinth of tunnels under the Incan Temple of the Sun in Cusco, Peruvian Andes. Some of them stretch for 1.6 kilometres, and confirm what has been suspected for several years. This labyrinth is known as a chincana and does not find a direct reference in any texts, except vague hints. One of the historical texts dates as far back as the 16th century. Now, we finally have confirmation that this labyrinth of tunnels was real. A main branch connects the temple to the fortress of Sacsahuaman, around two kilometres away, archaeologist Jorge Calero Flores said at a news conference. His team found three smaller branches—one near the Church of San Cristóbal, another to an area near the fortress, and a third to an area known as Callispuquio. Flores added that the tunnel system is roughly 8.5 feet wide and 5.2 feet high. "We suspect that the Inca could have been carried in litters through there," he was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post, adding that the Inca people built these tunnels. Construction included digging up the trenches and then adding stone walls and carved-beam ceilings for support. According to the Flores team, the tunnels mirrored the above-ground street network of the ancient Incan city of Cusco. Also Read: Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is hiding world's longest underwater cave filled with ice palaces and sinkholes Also Read: Secret tunnels seen only in Leonardo da Vinci's painting have been discovered under an ancient Italian castle Ancient texts carried accounts of tunnels in Inca The team found clues about the tunnels in the 16th-century Jesuit texts and another document by a chronicler named Anello de Oliva. The first one carried an account by an anonymous Spanish Jesuit who wrote about a tunnel in 1594 connecting the bishop’s housing to the Cusco Cathedral. This was a hint that this tunnel originated at the Temple of the Sun. The second one by de Oliva discussed multiple underground passages in the city. There were accounts of how construction workers made sure not to disturb the tunnel network that started at a cave in the fortress. Also Read: 20,000-year-old labyrinth with 3,000 rooms lies under Egypt pyramid, centuries-old claim resurfaces To create a specific map of Chincana, the researchers first checked for hollow areas using acoustic prospecting. Then they proceeded to deploy ground-penetrating radar on these areas, leading to the detection of the tunnel labyrinth. The researchers are now planning to enter these tunnels to learn more about them.

<p>Folklore, rumours and beliefs about the presence of a complex tunnel system under the Incan Temple of the Sun in Cusco have all been confirmed. Scientists have found a labyrinth known as a chincana in this region, which supposedly mirrored the streets above.</p>

500-year-old rumoured labyrinth under Peru temple proves to be real: 'We suspect that...'

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Comets continued to grab the limelight in the new year as well, with C/2025 R3 scheduled to fly by Earth in the coming months. It follows a string of other comets that made headlines in the past two years, including "Devil Comet" 12P/Pons-Brooks and C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), that became visible in 2024 and early 2025, and C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) and C/2025 R2 (SWAN) in 2025. There was also C/2025 K1 (ATLAS), dubbed the Other Atlas, that broke up into several pieces, and there was a chance that it could turn into a headless comet. In 2026, we have a new comet to look forward to. C/2025 R3 is expected to brighten considerably and might even be visible with the naked eye.</p><p>However, this is where things get tricky. This scenario depends on a phenomenon called forward scattering.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Comet C/2025 R3 will reach perihelion (nearest point to the Sun) on April 20 and will be 76.3 million kilometres from the Sun. It will make its closest approach to Earth on April 27, coming within 70.8 million kilometres. This means it will be within the orbits of Mercury and Venus, offering a good opportunity to astronomers. But to reach a higher magnitude of brightness and become visible without telescopes or binoculars, sunlight will play a major role.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/1-2-billion-light-years-away-a-triple-black-hole-collision-is-occurring-for-the-first-time-1767166848929"><strong>1.2 billion light-years away, a triple black hole collision is occurring for the first time</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How sunlight can make the comet brighter</strong></h2><p>When the comet passes between Earth and the sun, the dust particles in its tail will reflect the sunlight, and this can intensify the comet's brightness. Several comets in the past have become brighter because of this effect, and the same could happen to C/2025 R3. The new moon on April 17, 2026, days before perihelion, will also affect the comet's visibility. Since at this time the skies will be dark in the absence of the Moon, it will be easier to spot the comet in the pre-dawn hours from the Northern Hemisphere. By mid-April, the comet will appear about 15 degrees above the eastern horizon and will be visible an hour before sunrise.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>More about C/2025 R3</strong></h2><p>C/2025 R3 was first spotted on September 8, 2025, by the Pan-STARRS observatory that sits atop Haleakalā volcano in Hawaii. The Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope helped confirm its orbit and offer an idea of the path it was expected to take in the coming months. Its nearly parabolic trajectory suggests that it is a new comet originating from the outer Oort Cloud, which means it is passing through the solar system for the first time.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

New comet of 2026: Comet C/2025 R3 is generating excitement in the new year as it is set to reach its closest point to Earth in April. It is a new comet originating from the outer Oort Cloud and is on its first trip through the solar system. 

Comets continued to grab the limelight in the new year as well, with C/2025 R3 scheduled to fly by Earth in the coming months. It follows a string of other comets that made headlines in the past two years, including "Devil Comet" 12P/Pons-Brooks and C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), that became visible in 2024 and early 2025, and C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) and C/2025 R2 (SWAN) in 2025. There was also C/2025 K1 (ATLAS), dubbed the Other Atlas, that broke up into several pieces, and there was a chance that it could turn into a headless comet. In 2026, we have a new comet to look forward to. C/2025 R3 is expected to brighten considerably and might even be visible with the naked eye. However, this is where things get tricky. This scenario depends on a phenomenon called forward scattering. Comet C/2025 R3 will reach perihelion (nearest point to the Sun) on April 20 and will be 76.3 million kilometres from the Sun. It will make its closest approach to Earth on April 27, coming within 70.8 million kilometres. This means it will be within the orbits of Mercury and Venus, offering a good opportunity to astronomers. But to reach a higher magnitude of brightness and become visible without telescopes or binoculars, sunlight will play a major role. Also Read: 1.2 billion light-years away, a triple black hole collision is occurring for the first time How sunlight can make the comet brighter When the comet passes between Earth and the sun, the dust particles in its tail will reflect the sunlight, and this can intensify the comet's brightness. Several comets in the past have become brighter because of this effect, and the same could happen to C/2025 R3. The new moon on April 17, 2026, days before perihelion, will also affect the comet's visibility. Since at this time the skies will be dark in the absence of the Moon, it will be easier to spot the comet in the pre-dawn hours from the Northern Hemisphere. By mid-April, the comet will appear about 15 degrees above the eastern horizon and will be visible an hour before sunrise. More about C/2025 R3 C/2025 R3 was first spotted on September 8, 2025, by the Pan-STARRS observatory that sits atop Haleakalā volcano in Hawaii. The Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope helped confirm its orbit and offer an idea of the path it was expected to take in the coming months. Its nearly parabolic trajectory suggests that it is a new comet originating from the outer Oort Cloud, which means it is passing through the solar system for the first time.

<p>New comet of 2026: Comet C/2025 R3 is generating excitement in the new year as it is set to reach its closest point to Earth in April. It is a new comet originating from the outer Oort Cloud and is on its first trip through the solar system.&nbsp;</p>

Comet C/2025 R3: Origin, brightness and how forward scattering can improve its visibility

<p>India was among the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil before US sanctions sharply curtailed trade. Imports largely halted after 2020 amid American sanctions and military actions, which culminated in the removal of its president Nicholas Maduro, who will now stand trial in the US. Several Indian companies – both state-owned and/or listed &nbsp;– have been in business with Venezuela, particularly in the oil and gas sector. After the extraction of Maduro to the US, President Donald Trump revealed plans to “run” the Latin American country. Any such major change would have both short- and long-term consequences for the Indian companies as well as its energy security. Some of it could be actually positive. Here is a roundup:</p><h2>India and developments in Venezuala</h2><p>Indian markets appear to have largely shrugged off, or factored in, developments related to Venezuela. Oil-linked stocks such as Reliance showed strength, reflecting potential upside rather than immediate losses. But in the long term, if the US gives priority to American firms, it might limit Indian companies' gains.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed</a></p><h2>Indian companies in the oil and gas sector with exposure to Venezuela</h2><p>ONGC Videsh, an unlisted subsidiary of state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has stakes in two Venezuelan oil projects: 40 per cent in the San Cristóbal field and 11 per cent in Carabobo-1. The state-owned and listed Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is a consortium partner in the Carabobo heavy-oil project with equity participation. Oil India, a listed Indian state-run oil company, is a minority partner in a Venezuelan oil joint venture alongside ONGC Videsh and IOC.</p><p>In the private sector, Reliance Industries has been a major importer of Venezuelan crude in the past, with its refineries optimised for heavy oil processing. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), a listed firm, has historically imported Venezuelan oil, while Nayara Energy, an unlisted company, has imported heavy crude from Venezuela in earlier periods.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-venezuela-conflict-live-updates-maduro-jailed-trump-us-strikes-in-caracas-1767584039309">US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela sets commission to bring back Maduro amid Trump's warning to Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Iran</a></p><h2>Indian pharma sector firms with exposure to Venezuela</h2><p>Several pharma companies, mostly listed in the Indian stock market, have business interests in Venezuela. Their stocks could be partially affected by any disruption or revival of trade.</p><p>Sun Pharma operates a registered subsidiary in Venezuela. Cipla has exported essential medicines to Venezuela, while Glenmark Pharma operates through a locally registered subsidiary. Smaller unlisted firms such as Addii Biotech, JoinHub Pharma, and Salvavidas Pharma have been involved in pharma exports, contributing to millions of dollars in annual pharma trade with Venezuela in recent years. Dr Reddy’s had a subsidiary in the country but divested its operations by 2024, resulting in minimal ongoing exposure.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bus-driver-to-president-the-story-of-venezuelan-president-nicolas-maduro-1767558410299">From bus driver to President: The story of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a></p><h2>Metals, industrial and engineering sector firms exposed to Venezuela</h2><p>Public-sector firm Engineers India (EIL) has had an overseas office in Caracas to support its international business. Jindal Steel and Power has had iron-ore exposure in Venezuela through overseas assets, though operations have been inconsistent. Bajaj Auto had a historical presence in the Venezuelan motorcycle market, but recent years have seen limited operations due to the country’s economic conditions.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-capture-of-nicholas-maduro-is-it-legal-to-kidnap-a-president-of-another-country-like-venezuela-1767437573552">'Capture of Nicholas Maduro': Is it legal to kidnap a 'President' of another country like Venezuela?</a></p><h2>Macro impact and energy security future of India in wake of Venezuela developments</h2><p>Indian imports from Venezuela have declined by over 90 per cent since 2019 due to sanctions. This means that while individual firms with exposure might be affected, India’s overall energy security or economy are unlikely to take a major hit from developments involving Venezuela.</p><p>On the other hand, India could benefit if Venezuela’s oil production and exports increase following sanctions relief or improved Amercian engagement.&nbsp;</p><h2>Future of Venezuela's oil industry: Will India be affected?</h2><p>Venezuela has been exporting roughly 700,000–900,000 barrels per day in recent years, largely to China. If the US helps improve oil infrastructure, output could rise over time, which would ease global supply pressures on oil.</p><p>If US sanctions on the Venezuelan oil industry are lifted, India could also recover a portion of stuck dues and dividends owed to ONGC Videsh. Refiners such as Reliance, Nayara and MRPL could benefit from renewed access to discounted heavy crude, potentially improving margins.</p><p>If production stabilises, both IOC and Oil India might be able to move forward with their joint ventures.</p><h2>Indian pharma sector could be affected in long term</h2><p>Pharma and engineering could be a different story. Sun Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark and smaller exporters might face short-term disruptions. If US–Venezuela ties improve, it could enhance market access for essential medicines over time. But again, if American pharma firms enter Venezuela market, Indian companies could face tough competition.&nbsp;</p><p>Iron-ore operations could remain vulnerable to political or port-related disruptions, though this exposure is not core to the overall business of Indian firms involved.</p>

Capture and trial of Maduro and subsequent US actions in Venezuela could reshape oil flows, affect Indian energy and pharma firms. it could be beneficial if Indian oil firms get stuck dues and global oil supply eases. But instability could be a problem. What's in store?

India was among the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil before US sanctions sharply curtailed trade. Imports largely halted after 2020 amid American sanctions and military actions, which culminated in the removal of its president Nicholas Maduro, who will now stand trial in the US. Several Indian companies – both state-owned and/or listed – have been in business with Venezuela, particularly in the oil and gas sector. After the extraction of Maduro to the US, President Donald Trump revealed plans to “run” the Latin American country. Any such major change would have both short- and long-term consequences for the Indian companies as well as its energy security. Some of it could be actually positive. Here is a roundup: India and developments in Venezuala Indian markets appear to have largely shrugged off, or factored in, developments related to Venezuela. Oil-linked stocks such as Reliance showed strength, reflecting potential upside rather than immediate losses. But in the long term, if the US gives priority to American firms, it might limit Indian companies' gains. https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed Indian companies in the oil and gas sector with exposure to Venezuela ONGC Videsh, an unlisted subsidiary of state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has stakes in two Venezuelan oil projects: 40 per cent in the San Cristóbal field and 11 per cent in Carabobo-1. The state-owned and listed Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is a consortium partner in the Carabobo heavy-oil project with equity participation. Oil India, a listed Indian state-run oil company, is a minority partner in a Venezuelan oil joint venture alongside ONGC Videsh and IOC. In the private sector, Reliance Industries has been a major importer of Venezuelan crude in the past, with its refineries optimised for heavy oil processing. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), a listed firm, has historically imported Venezuelan oil, while Nayara Energy, an unlisted company, has imported heavy crude from Venezuela in earlier periods. Also read: US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela sets commission to bring back Maduro amid Trump's warning to Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Iran Indian pharma sector firms with exposure to Venezuela Several pharma companies, mostly listed in the Indian stock market, have business interests in Venezuela. Their stocks could be partially affected by any disruption or revival of trade. Sun Pharma operates a registered subsidiary in Venezuela. Cipla has exported essential medicines to Venezuela, while Glenmark Pharma operates through a locally registered subsidiary. Smaller unlisted firms such as Addii Biotech, JoinHub Pharma, and Salvavidas Pharma have been involved in pharma exports, contributing to millions of dollars in annual pharma trade with Venezuela in recent years. Dr Reddy’s had a subsidiary in the country but divested its operations by 2024, resulting in minimal ongoing exposure. Also read: From bus driver to President: The story of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Metals, industrial and engineering sector firms exposed to Venezuela Public-sector firm Engineers India (EIL) has had an overseas office in Caracas to support its international business. Jindal Steel and Power has had iron-ore exposure in Venezuela through overseas assets, though operations have been inconsistent. Bajaj Auto had a historical presence in the Venezuelan motorcycle market, but recent years have seen limited operations due to the country’s economic conditions. Also read: 'Capture of Nicholas Maduro': Is it legal to kidnap a 'President' of another country like Venezuela? Macro impact and energy security future of India in wake of Venezuela developments Indian imports from Venezuela have declined by over 90 per cent since 2019 due to sanctions. This means that while individual firms with exposure might be affected, India’s overall energy security or economy are unlikely to take a major hit from developments involving Venezuela. On the other hand, India could benefit if Venezuela’s oil production and exports increase following sanctions relief or improved Amercian engagement. Future of Venezuela's oil industry: Will India be affected? Venezuela has been exporting roughly 700,000–900,000 barrels per day in recent years, largely to China. If the US helps improve oil infrastructure, output could rise over time, which would ease global supply pressures on oil. If US sanctions on the Venezuelan oil industry are lifted, India could also recover a portion of stuck dues and dividends owed to ONGC Videsh. Refiners such as Reliance, Nayara and MRPL could benefit from renewed access to discounted heavy crude, potentially improving margins. If production stabilises, both IOC and Oil India might be able to move forward with their joint ventures. Indian pharma sector could be affected in long term Pharma and engineering could be a different story. Sun Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark and smaller exporters might face short-term disruptions. If US–Venezuela ties improve, it could enhance market access for essential medicines over time. But again, if American pharma firms enter Venezuela market, Indian companies could face tough competition. Iron-ore operations could remain vulnerable to political or port-related disruptions, though this exposure is not core to the overall business of Indian firms involved.

<p>Capture and trial of Maduro and subsequent US actions in Venezuela could reshape oil flows, affect Indian energy and pharma firms. it could be beneficial if Indian oil firms get stuck dues and global oil supply eases. But instability could be a problem. What's in store?</p>

Some good, some bad: How Indian firms and energy security could be affected by US “running” Venezuela after taking Maduro into custody

<p>National Bird Day is celebrated annually on January 5 to raise awareness about the importance of birds in our ecosystems. The day encourages people to appreciate the beauty, significance and diversity of birds in order to protect their habitats. Along with the pressing issues of bird extinction and habitat destruction, this day also encourages individuals and organisations to engage in efforts to conserve bird populations.</p><h3>What is the history and origin of National Bird Day?</h3><p>National Bird Day was first established in 2002 by the Avian Welfare Coalition to promote the welfare of birds both in the wild and in captivity. It was decided to coincide with the rise of the wild bird preservation movement in the early 20th century. Including hunting, habitat destruction, and the illegal pet trade, birds have experienced several challenges in the past, making a day dedicated to their protection essential.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The day also honours the efforts of conservationists and environmental organisations working to safeguard endangered bird species, including the bald eagle and the California condor, both of which were once close to extinction.</p><h3>Significance of National Bird Day</h3><p>National Bird Day highlights the vital role birds play in keeping ecosystems balanced. They act as pollinators, help disperse seeds and serve as key indicators of environmental health, while also bringing beauty and inspiration to people worldwide.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Yet many bird species are under threat from human-driven factors such as deforestation, urban development and climate change. Beyond spreading awareness, National Bird Day urges people to back conservation initiatives and adopt sustainable practices to help protect these extraordinary animals.</p><h3>Challenges</h3><p>In the recent past, Bird populations have seen dramatic declines due to multiple factors. The habitat loss is marked as one of the most significant threats because forests are wiped out, wetlands are drained, and grasslands are converted for agriculture or urban development.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Climate change, habitat loss, poaching and the illegal pet trade threaten bird species by disrupting migration, food sources and breeding. To counter this, environmental groups are protecting habitats, establishing reserves and supporting laws to curb bird trafficking.</p>

National Bird Day was first established in 2002 by the Avian Welfare Coalition to promote the welfare of birds both in the wild and in captivity. It was decided to coincide with the rise of the wild bird preservation movement in the early 20th century. 

National Bird Day is celebrated annually on January 5 to raise awareness about the importance of birds in our ecosystems. The day encourages people to appreciate the beauty, significance and diversity of birds in order to protect their habitats. Along with the pressing issues of bird extinction and habitat destruction, this day also encourages individuals and organisations to engage in efforts to conserve bird populations. What is the history and origin of National Bird Day? National Bird Day was first established in 2002 by the Avian Welfare Coalition to promote the welfare of birds both in the wild and in captivity. It was decided to coincide with the rise of the wild bird preservation movement in the early 20th century. Including hunting, habitat destruction, and the illegal pet trade, birds have experienced several challenges in the past, making a day dedicated to their protection essential. The day also honours the efforts of conservationists and environmental organisations working to safeguard endangered bird species, including the bald eagle and the California condor, both of which were once close to extinction. Significance of National Bird Day National Bird Day highlights the vital role birds play in keeping ecosystems balanced. They act as pollinators, help disperse seeds and serve as key indicators of environmental health, while also bringing beauty and inspiration to people worldwide. Yet many bird species are under threat from human-driven factors such as deforestation, urban development and climate change. Beyond spreading awareness, National Bird Day urges people to back conservation initiatives and adopt sustainable practices to help protect these extraordinary animals. Challenges In the recent past, Bird populations have seen dramatic declines due to multiple factors. The habitat loss is marked as one of the most significant threats because forests are wiped out, wetlands are drained, and grasslands are converted for agriculture or urban development. Climate change, habitat loss, poaching and the illegal pet trade threaten bird species by disrupting migration, food sources and breeding. To counter this, environmental groups are protecting habitats, establishing reserves and supporting laws to curb bird trafficking.

<p>National Bird Day was first established in 2002 by the Avian Welfare Coalition to promote the welfare of birds both in the wild and in captivity. It was decided to coincide with the rise of the wild bird preservation movement in the early 20th century.&nbsp;</p>

Why National Bird Day 2026 matters: History, significance and more — All you need to know

<p>At 22:46 EST on Friday (January 2), US President Donald Trump gave "Operation Absolute Resolve" the go-ahead, and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured within hours. On the same day, a supposedly brand new account on Polymarket got $30,000 into bets on the removal of Maduro, and by Saturday morning, it had made $436,759.61, according to Axios’s Herb Scribner. This looks eerily suspicious, as if someone was tipped off about the operation and used the opportunity to make money on the world's biggest prediction website. But, likely, it was merely a wild guess that made the person rich. There is no clarity over where this number took off from, but an archive.ph screenshot is being widely circulated on social media.</p><h2><strong>Bets on Maduro being ousted from power spiked on Friday night</strong></h2><p>Maduro was captured in a two-hour-and-twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea by the US military and taken out of his country, shocking the world. Brazil's President Lula da Silva called it "yet another extremely dangerous precedent for the entire international community". Trump said later that they were "going to do this four days ago, three days ago, two days ago, and then all of a sudden it opened up." Besides, according to the Wall Street Journal, there were six contracts of Maduro-leaves-power bets on Polymarket, and a total of $56.6 million worth of bets were placed. $40 million of it was called that Maduro would leave by November 30 or December 31, both of which proved wrong. On Friday night, there was a sudden spike in bets on Maduro being ousted.</p><p>Meanwhile, according to bettors, Maduro's chances of being freed aren't very bright this year. There is a mere 1 per cent chance of his release by January 9, and only 15 per cent by the end of 2026.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-s-ominous-warning-before-us-grabbed-venezuela-president-nicolas-maduro-and-his-wife-be-smart-or-else-1767434160610"><strong>Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else...</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How Operation Absolute Resolve went down</strong></h2><p>In order to increase the element of surprise, the military had a false start with Trump ordering the strike four days earlier, but no action was initiated. "Over the weeks through Christmas and New Year, the men and women of the United States military sat ready, patiently waiting for the right triggers to be met and the president to order us into action," General Dan Caine, the US's highest-ranking military officer, told reporters on Saturday morning.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-cuba-is-ready-to-to-fall-trump-warns-says-a-lot-of-cubans-killed-in-us-strikes-against-venezuela-1767578601251"><strong>‘Cuba is ready to fall’: Trump’s BIG warning after admitting ‘a lot of Cubans killed’ in US strikes against Venezuela</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-venezuela-tensions-trump-threatens-venezuela-s-new-leader-1767585062647/embed</p><h2><strong>Trump on Venezuela Maduro operation</strong></h2><p>Trump called it "an incredible thing to see," and that it was like "watching a television show." His order came when it was almost midnight in Caracas. More than 150 aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets and reconnaissance planes, swarmed the skies. At around 2 am local time, loud explosions were heard, and smoke was seen rising over the city. Maduro, who was under the watch of Cuban bodyguards, tried to make it to a safe room, but failed. "He was trying to get to a safe place, which wasn't safe, because we would have had the door blown up in about 47 seconds," Trump said. Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino said on Sunday that the operation led to the killing of a "large part" of Maduro's security team and "soldiers and innocent civilians".<br>&nbsp;</p>

Polymarket bets on Maduro: An account that looks brand new got $30,000 in bets on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and made $436,759 by Saturday morning. Was it a wild guess? Probably, since there were six contracts on Maduro.

At 22:46 EST on Friday (January 2), US President Donald Trump gave "Operation Absolute Resolve" the go-ahead, and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured within hours. On the same day, a supposedly brand new account on Polymarket got $30,000 into bets on the removal of Maduro, and by Saturday morning, it had made $436,759.61, according to Axios’s Herb Scribner. This looks eerily suspicious, as if someone was tipped off about the operation and used the opportunity to make money on the world's biggest prediction website. But, likely, it was merely a wild guess that made the person rich. There is no clarity over where this number took off from, but an archive.ph screenshot is being widely circulated on social media. Bets on Maduro being ousted from power spiked on Friday night Maduro was captured in a two-hour-and-twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea by the US military and taken out of his country, shocking the world. Brazil's President Lula da Silva called it "yet another extremely dangerous precedent for the entire international community". Trump said later that they were "going to do this four days ago, three days ago, two days ago, and then all of a sudden it opened up." Besides, according to the Wall Street Journal, there were six contracts of Maduro-leaves-power bets on Polymarket, and a total of $56.6 million worth of bets were placed. $40 million of it was called that Maduro would leave by November 30 or December 31, both of which proved wrong. On Friday night, there was a sudden spike in bets on Maduro being ousted. Meanwhile, according to bettors, Maduro's chances of being freed aren't very bright this year. There is a mere 1 per cent chance of his release by January 9, and only 15 per cent by the end of 2026. Also Read: Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else... How Operation Absolute Resolve went down In order to increase the element of surprise, the military had a false start with Trump ordering the strike four days earlier, but no action was initiated. "Over the weeks through Christmas and New Year, the men and women of the United States military sat ready, patiently waiting for the right triggers to be met and the president to order us into action," General Dan Caine, the US's highest-ranking military officer, told reporters on Saturday morning. Also Read: ‘Cuba is ready to fall’: Trump’s BIG warning after admitting ‘a lot of Cubans killed’ in US strikes against Venezuela https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-venezuela-tensions-trump-threatens-venezuela-s-new-leader-1767585062647/embed Trump on Venezuela Maduro operation Trump called it "an incredible thing to see," and that it was like "watching a television show." His order came when it was almost midnight in Caracas. More than 150 aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets and reconnaissance planes, swarmed the skies. At around 2 am local time, loud explosions were heard, and smoke was seen rising over the city. Maduro, who was under the watch of Cuban bodyguards, tried to make it to a safe room, but failed. "He was trying to get to a safe place, which wasn't safe, because we would have had the door blown up in about 47 seconds," Trump said. Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino said on Sunday that the operation led to the killing of a "large part" of Maduro's security team and "soldiers and innocent civilians".

<p>Polymarket bets on Maduro: An account that looks brand new got $30,000 in bets on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and made $436,759 by Saturday morning. Was it a wild guess? Probably, since there were six contracts on Maduro.</p>

Maduro captured: A new Polymarket account made $436,759 overnight on Operation Absolute Resolve. A wild guess?

<p>Following the US military's "Operation Absolute Resolve" that led to capture of Venuzualean President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from Caracas, China reacted strongly by condemenining the military action saying such “hegemonic acts of the US seriously violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty,” adding that “We call on the US to abide by international law and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and stop violating other countries’ sovereignty and security,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hours before the US strikes on Venezuela, China's Special Representative on Latin American Affairs, Qiu Xiaoqi, held a meeting with President Maduro, as Caracas is central to Beijing's Latin America outreach with nearly $105.6 billion worth of loans and financial aid.</p><h2><strong>China’s Venezuela Bet</strong></h2><p>Venezuela has long been viewed as a crucial component of China’s strategy to expand its influence beyond Asia. The relationship took formal shape in 2006, under President Hugo Chávez, with Caracas signing several trade agreements with Beijing and describing China as a “Great Wall” against US influence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Under these agreements, Venezuela committed to supplying up to one million barrels of oil per day to China. In return, Beijing promised political backing, including support for Venezuela’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, according to media reports. By 2008, Beijing was sourcing nearly half of its oil supply from Venezuela, making it a key component in China's energy dynamics.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The partnership soon turned financial. China began extending large loans to Venezuela, backed by future oil supplies. In 2006, Beijing provided $2 billion in loans, which rose to $7 billion in 2007, according to AidData, a US-based research group. Lending surged in the following years, with $8 billion extended in 2009 and around $27 billion in 2010.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 2007, the two countries created a joint fund worth $6 billion, with a $4 billion loan from the China Development Bank and $2 billion from Venezuela’s state development fund, FONDEN. Repayment was secured through oil shipments from PDVSA, Venezuela’s state-run oil company. The fund was expanded to $12 billion in 2009 through additional contributions from both sides.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>China continued lending even as Venezuela’s economy weakened. In 2014, it provided a $1 billion credit line to PDVSA and another $1.5 billion loan for working capital.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-release-them-at-once-says-china-to-us-on-capture-of-nicolas-maduro-and-wife-1767523040528"><strong>'Release them at once', says China to US on capture of Nicolas Maduro and wife</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When global oil prices collapsed in 2014, and Venezuela’s economy plunged under President Nicolás Maduro, China extended a further $10 billion loan to support Venezuela’s balance of payments, again backed by oil exports. In 2015, Beijing eased repayment terms on nearly $50 billion in outstanding loans, reducing daily oil shipments and allowing some repayments in local currency.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Since 2016, China has largely stopped issuing new loans to Venezuela, focusing instead on restructuring existing debt. Despite this slowdown, Venezuela remains one of China’s biggest debtors, and any political change in Caracas could have major financial consequences for Beijing.</p>

Hours before the US strikes on Venezuela, China's Special Representative on Latin American Affairs, Qiu Xiaoqi, held a meeting with President Maduro.

Following the US military's "Operation Absolute Resolve" that led to capture of Venuzualean President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from Caracas, China reacted strongly by condemenining the military action saying such “hegemonic acts of the US seriously violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty,” adding that “We call on the US to abide by international law and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and stop violating other countries’ sovereignty and security,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. Hours before the US strikes on Venezuela, China's Special Representative on Latin American Affairs, Qiu Xiaoqi, held a meeting with President Maduro, as Caracas is central to Beijing's Latin America outreach with nearly $105.6 billion worth of loans and financial aid. China’s Venezuela Bet Venezuela has long been viewed as a crucial component of China’s strategy to expand its influence beyond Asia. The relationship took formal shape in 2006, under President Hugo Chávez, with Caracas signing several trade agreements with Beijing and describing China as a “Great Wall” against US influence. Under these agreements, Venezuela committed to supplying up to one million barrels of oil per day to China. In return, Beijing promised political backing, including support for Venezuela’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, according to media reports. By 2008, Beijing was sourcing nearly half of its oil supply from Venezuela, making it a key component in China's energy dynamics. The partnership soon turned financial. China began extending large loans to Venezuela, backed by future oil supplies. In 2006, Beijing provided $2 billion in loans, which rose to $7 billion in 2007, according to AidData, a US-based research group. Lending surged in the following years, with $8 billion extended in 2009 and around $27 billion in 2010. In 2007, the two countries created a joint fund worth $6 billion, with a $4 billion loan from the China Development Bank and $2 billion from Venezuela’s state development fund, FONDEN. Repayment was secured through oil shipments from PDVSA, Venezuela’s state-run oil company. The fund was expanded to $12 billion in 2009 through additional contributions from both sides. China continued lending even as Venezuela’s economy weakened. In 2014, it provided a $1 billion credit line to PDVSA and another $1.5 billion loan for working capital. Also Read: 'Release them at once', says China to US on capture of Nicolas Maduro and wife When global oil prices collapsed in 2014, and Venezuela’s economy plunged under President Nicolás Maduro, China extended a further $10 billion loan to support Venezuela’s balance of payments, again backed by oil exports. In 2015, Beijing eased repayment terms on nearly $50 billion in outstanding loans, reducing daily oil shipments and allowing some repayments in local currency. Since 2016, China has largely stopped issuing new loans to Venezuela, focusing instead on restructuring existing debt. Despite this slowdown, Venezuela remains one of China’s biggest debtors, and any political change in Caracas could have major financial consequences for Beijing.

<p>Hours before the US strikes on Venezuela, China's Special Representative on Latin American Affairs, Qiu Xiaoqi, held a meeting with President Maduro.</p>

China’s $100 billion in loans at stake in Venezuela after US captures Maduro

<p>The US military on Saturday (Jan 03) conducted "large-scale" strikes in Venezuela and captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores in the capital Caracas and flew them out of the country. The United States government has sought Maduro's arrest for years and was accused by a US court of narco-terrorism. Maduro has been on a US bounty since 2020. In 2025, the Trump administration doubled the reward to $50 million for any information leading to Maduro's capture.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, for years, Maduro, with the help of his multi-layered, highly trained and armed personal security detail, successfully thwarted attempts on his life and efforts to capture him, to finally caught by the Delta Force, an elite unit of the US Army, on Saturday.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The US President Donald Trump confirmed the capture was made possible by extensive planning and seamless coordination between various wings of the armed forces and Washington's intelligence apparatus. &nbsp;"A lot of good planning and a lot of great, great troops and great people," he said as quoted by the New York Times.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was protected by a multi-layered, heavily militarised security apparatus, making him one of the most guarded leaders in the world, as he has been at odds with Washington over a decade of ideological conflict and accusations of being involved in narco-terrorism activities inside the United States.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Maduro’s inner security ring was handled by the Presidential Honour Guard (Guardia de Honour Presidencial), an elite unit responsible for his close protection at the Miraflores Palace, official residences and public events. This unit reports directly to the presidency and operates independently of regular police forces.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His protection was supported by the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN), which conducts counter-intelligence, surveillance, threat monitoring and internal security operations. SEBIN plays a key role in foiling assassination plots and neutralising political threats.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-delta-force-elite-us-military-unit-that-captured-venezuela-s-president-1767436593484"><strong>Inside Delta Force, elite US military unit that captured Venezuela’s president</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Bolivarian National Guard (GNB) and National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) provided outer-layer security, controlling perimeters, routes, airspace and public venues during Maduro’s movements. Military units routinely escort his motorcades and secure strategic locations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Maduro also relied on Cuban security and intelligence advisers, a relationship that dates back to the Hugo Chávez era. These advisers are believed to assist in intelligence analysis, personal protection protocols and counter-espionage, although Caracas does not officially disclose their role.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After surviving a 2018 drone attack, Maduro significantly tightened security with measures such as electronic counter-drone systems, restricted airspace, frequent route changes and tightly controlled public appearances.</p>

For years, Maduro, with the help of his multi-layered, highly trained, and heavily armed personal security detail, successfully thwarted attempts on his life, including an assassination attempt involving a drone attack in 2018.

The US military on Saturday (Jan 03) conducted "large-scale" strikes in Venezuela and captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores in the capital Caracas and flew them out of the country. The United States government has sought Maduro's arrest for years and was accused by a US court of narco-terrorism. Maduro has been on a US bounty since 2020. In 2025, the Trump administration doubled the reward to $50 million for any information leading to Maduro's capture. However, for years, Maduro, with the help of his multi-layered, highly trained and armed personal security detail, successfully thwarted attempts on his life and efforts to capture him, to finally caught by the Delta Force, an elite unit of the US Army, on Saturday. The US President Donald Trump confirmed the capture was made possible by extensive planning and seamless coordination between various wings of the armed forces and Washington's intelligence apparatus. "A lot of good planning and a lot of great, great troops and great people," he said as quoted by the New York Times. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was protected by a multi-layered, heavily militarised security apparatus, making him one of the most guarded leaders in the world, as he has been at odds with Washington over a decade of ideological conflict and accusations of being involved in narco-terrorism activities inside the United States. Maduro’s inner security ring was handled by the Presidential Honour Guard (Guardia de Honour Presidencial), an elite unit responsible for his close protection at the Miraflores Palace, official residences and public events. This unit reports directly to the presidency and operates independently of regular police forces. His protection was supported by the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN), which conducts counter-intelligence, surveillance, threat monitoring and internal security operations. SEBIN plays a key role in foiling assassination plots and neutralising political threats. Also Read: Inside Delta Force, elite US military unit that captured Venezuela’s president The Bolivarian National Guard (GNB) and National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) provided outer-layer security, controlling perimeters, routes, airspace and public venues during Maduro’s movements. Military units routinely escort his motorcades and secure strategic locations. Maduro also relied on Cuban security and intelligence advisers, a relationship that dates back to the Hugo Chávez era. These advisers are believed to assist in intelligence analysis, personal protection protocols and counter-espionage, although Caracas does not officially disclose their role. After surviving a 2018 drone attack, Maduro significantly tightened security with measures such as electronic counter-drone systems, restricted airspace, frequent route changes and tightly controlled public appearances.

<p>For years, Maduro, with the help of his multi-layered, highly trained, and heavily armed personal security detail, successfully thwarted attempts on his life, including an assassination attempt involving a drone attack in 2018.</p>

Maduro’s fortress: Venezuelan president’s personal security apparatus that blocked attacks for years before eventual capture

<p>Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 03) confirmed that the United States conducted large-scale strikes inside Venezuela and captured President Nicholas maduro and his wife Cilia Flores “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement," Trump wrote on Truth Social.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per the initial reports, an elite unit, Delta Force, was central in capturing Maduro in a daring operation in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas and flew him out of the country. Know the history and previous operations conducted by the Delta Forces.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The United States Army’s Delta Force, officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta, was established in 1977 to give the US a specialised counter-terrorism and hostage-rescue capability. Founded by Colonel Charles Beckwith, the unit was created after Washington recognised serious gaps in its ability to respond to international terrorist threats.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Operating under the US Army Special Operations Command and tasked by the highest levels of government, Delta Force conducts missions that remain largely classified, with details emerging only years later.</p><h2>From Iran to Mogadishu: Early Combat Operations</h2><p>Delta Force first entered the public spotlight during Operation Eagle Claw in 1980, the failed attempt to rescue American hostages in Iran. While the mission ended in tragedy, it prompted major reforms in US special operations planning.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 1989, Delta Force played a crucial role in the US invasion of Panama, assisting in the capture of military ruler Manuel Noriega. The unit again saw intense combat in 1993 during operations in Somalia, where Delta operators conducted raids against militia leaders amid fierce urban fighting in Mogadishu.</p><h2>Central Role in Post-9/11 Counter-Terror Campaign</h2><p>Following the September 11, 2001, attacks, Delta Force became a key instrument of America’s global counter-terrorism strategy. The unit has since carried out high-risk missions across Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and other regions, focusing on dismantling extremist networks, targeting senior militant leaders and conducting hostage-rescue operations.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 2019, the Delta Force, carried out a secretive operation that resulted in the death of former Islamic State terror group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Today, Delta Force remains one of the most secretive arms of the US military, tasked with missions considered too sensitive or dangerous for conventional forces, and continues to shape US counter-terrorism doctrine through precision, speed and intelligence-led operations.</p>

Operating under the US Army Special Operations Command, Delta Force executes missions approved at the highest levels, with operational details often remaining classified for years.

Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 03) confirmed that the United States conducted large-scale strikes inside Venezuela and captured President Nicholas maduro and his wife Cilia Flores “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement," Trump wrote on Truth Social. As per the initial reports, an elite unit, Delta Force, was central in capturing Maduro in a daring operation in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas and flew him out of the country. Know the history and previous operations conducted by the Delta Forces. The United States Army’s Delta Force, officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta, was established in 1977 to give the US a specialised counter-terrorism and hostage-rescue capability. Founded by Colonel Charles Beckwith, the unit was created after Washington recognised serious gaps in its ability to respond to international terrorist threats. Operating under the US Army Special Operations Command and tasked by the highest levels of government, Delta Force conducts missions that remain largely classified, with details emerging only years later. From Iran to Mogadishu: Early Combat Operations Delta Force first entered the public spotlight during Operation Eagle Claw in 1980, the failed attempt to rescue American hostages in Iran. While the mission ended in tragedy, it prompted major reforms in US special operations planning. In 1989, Delta Force played a crucial role in the US invasion of Panama, assisting in the capture of military ruler Manuel Noriega. The unit again saw intense combat in 1993 during operations in Somalia, where Delta operators conducted raids against militia leaders amid fierce urban fighting in Mogadishu. Central Role in Post-9/11 Counter-Terror Campaign Following the September 11, 2001, attacks, Delta Force became a key instrument of America’s global counter-terrorism strategy. The unit has since carried out high-risk missions across Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and other regions, focusing on dismantling extremist networks, targeting senior militant leaders and conducting hostage-rescue operations. In 2019, the Delta Force, carried out a secretive operation that resulted in the death of former Islamic State terror group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Today, Delta Force remains one of the most secretive arms of the US military, tasked with missions considered too sensitive or dangerous for conventional forces, and continues to shape US counter-terrorism doctrine through precision, speed and intelligence-led operations.

<p>Operating under the US Army Special Operations Command, Delta Force executes missions approved at the highest levels, with operational details often remaining classified for years.</p>

Inside Delta Force, elite US military unit that captured Venezuela’s president

<p>US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 3) announced that America has captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores after launching a "large scale strike" on the South American country. While shocking, the "kidnapping" is far from a surprise; just days earlier, he ominously warned the Venezuelan leader to be "smart" and step down or else it would be the "last time he's ever able to play tough."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-attacked-venezuela-president-gustavo-petro-claims-caracas-under-missile-attack-1767424329941"><strong>'They've attacked Venezuela': President Petro says Caracas under missile attack</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Trump's ominous warning here</strong></h2><p>On Dec 22, Trump openly suggested that it would be "smart" for Nicolás Maduro to step down, accidentally lending weight to what the Venezuelan President has been claiming for months: the US is looking for regime change in Caracas. &nbsp;</p><p>Speaking to reporters at his Florida residence, Trump was asked whether the growing US military presence and threats were aimed at forcing Maduro out of office after more than a decade. "That's up to him, what he wants to do," Trump said. "I think it would be smart for him to do that." He followed the comment with a warning, saying that if Maduro chose to "play tough," it would be "the last time he's ever able to play tough."</p><p>He also suggested that the United States could keep and maybe even sell the oil it had seized off the coast of Venezuela in recent weeks, adding that America would also keep the seized ships. "Maybe we will sell it, maybe we will keep it," Trump said, adding it could be used to restock America's strategic reserves.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-against-peacemaker-trump-s-imperial-aggression-1767428601164"><strong>Venezuela calls for 'mobilisation' against Trump's 'imperial aggression'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How did Maduro respond?</strong></h2><p>At the time, Maduro had dismissed the comments as empty threats, saying that Trump should focus inward. In a speech broadcast on state television, the Venezuelan leader said Trump would be "better off" addressing economic and social challenges at home instead of threatening another country. "He would be better off in his own country on economic and social issues, and he would be better off in the world if he took care of his country's affairs," said Maduro.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Donald Trump claims the US has captured Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro. The shock announcement follows weeks of threats, seizures, and warnings that this would be Maduro’s “last time” defying Washington. Read ominous warning BELOW.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 3) announced that America has captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores after launching a "large scale strike" on the South American country. While shocking, the "kidnapping" is far from a surprise; just days earlier, he ominously warned the Venezuelan leader to be "smart" and step down or else it would be the "last time he's ever able to play tough." Also read | 'They've attacked Venezuela': President Petro says Caracas under missile attack Trump's ominous warning here On Dec 22, Trump openly suggested that it would be "smart" for Nicolás Maduro to step down, accidentally lending weight to what the Venezuelan President has been claiming for months: the US is looking for regime change in Caracas. Speaking to reporters at his Florida residence, Trump was asked whether the growing US military presence and threats were aimed at forcing Maduro out of office after more than a decade. "That's up to him, what he wants to do," Trump said. "I think it would be smart for him to do that." He followed the comment with a warning, saying that if Maduro chose to "play tough," it would be "the last time he's ever able to play tough." He also suggested that the United States could keep and maybe even sell the oil it had seized off the coast of Venezuela in recent weeks, adding that America would also keep the seized ships. "Maybe we will sell it, maybe we will keep it," Trump said, adding it could be used to restock America's strategic reserves. Also read | Venezuela calls for 'mobilisation' against Trump's 'imperial aggression' How did Maduro respond? At the time, Maduro had dismissed the comments as empty threats, saying that Trump should focus inward. In a speech broadcast on state television, the Venezuelan leader said Trump would be "better off" addressing economic and social challenges at home instead of threatening another country. "He would be better off in his own country on economic and social issues, and he would be better off in the world if he took care of his country's affairs," said Maduro. https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed

<p>Donald Trump claims the US has captured Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro. The shock announcement follows weeks of threats, seizures, and warnings that this would be Maduro’s “last time” defying Washington. Read ominous warning BELOW.</p>

Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else...

<p>Images and statements linked to a US military operation dubbed Operation Southern Spear are now going viral, surfacing just hours after loud explosions and missile attacks were reported in Venezuela's capital. Venezuela has blamed the United States for the attack. While US President Donald Trump's government is yet to take credit for the crisis, the photos posted by the US Southern Command are fuelling claims that the country is under US direct attack.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-against-peacemaker-trump-s-imperial-aggression-1767428601164"><strong>Venezuela calls for 'mobilisation' of population against 'peacemaker' Trump's 'imperial aggression'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Was it a shrouded warning?</strong></h2><p>The US SouthCoM posted the pictures early on Saturday (Jan 3) with the caption detailing what it said was a joint training exercise by USSOCOM and the US Coast Guard near Mona Island in Puerto Rico (Around 500km from Caracas). The timing has drawn attention. Just hours earlier, photos of US soldiers undertaking an exercise linked to Operation Southern Spear were posted online. According to the US Southern Command, the operation involved joint training exercises by USSOCOM and the US Coast Guard near Mona Island in Puerto Rico. US Southern Command said it stood ready to support US national security objectives in the Western Hemisphere.</p><p><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260103/image-1767432976817.png"><br><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-attacked-venezuela-president-gustavo-petro-claims-caracas-under-missile-attack-1767424329941"><strong>'They've attacked Venezuela': President Petro says Caracas under missile attack</strong></a></p><p>In Venezuela's capital Caracas, loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard around 2:00 am (0600 GMT) on Saturday (Jan 3). Reports suggest that at least seven loud explosions shook the Venezuelan capital, prompting people to run onto the streets. As per a Reuters report, in Southern Caracas, the area near a major military base suffered a blackout. This follows repeated threats from US President Donald Trump that America would carry out ground strikes against Venezuela.</p><p>In its statement, the South American nation said that, “this act constitutes a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, especially Articles I and II, which enshrine respect for sovereignty, the legal equality of States, and the prohibition of the use of force.” The nation said that the aggression “threatens international peace and stability, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean,” and that it “seriously endangers the lives of millions of people”.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed</a></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

US attacks Venezuela: Did the US warn beforehand? Pictures of Operation Southern Spear posted just hours before the strike emerge amid the Caracas crisis

Images and statements linked to a US military operation dubbed Operation Southern Spear are now going viral, surfacing just hours after loud explosions and missile attacks were reported in Venezuela's capital. Venezuela has blamed the United States for the attack. While US President Donald Trump's government is yet to take credit for the crisis, the photos posted by the US Southern Command are fuelling claims that the country is under US direct attack. Also read | Venezuela calls for 'mobilisation' of population against 'peacemaker' Trump's 'imperial aggression' Was it a shrouded warning? The US SouthCoM posted the pictures early on Saturday (Jan 3) with the caption detailing what it said was a joint training exercise by USSOCOM and the US Coast Guard near Mona Island in Puerto Rico (Around 500km from Caracas). The timing has drawn attention. Just hours earlier, photos of US soldiers undertaking an exercise linked to Operation Southern Spear were posted online. According to the US Southern Command, the operation involved joint training exercises by USSOCOM and the US Coast Guard near Mona Island in Puerto Rico. US Southern Command said it stood ready to support US national security objectives in the Western Hemisphere. Also read | 'They've attacked Venezuela': President Petro says Caracas under missile attack In Venezuela's capital Caracas, loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard around 2:00 am (0600 GMT) on Saturday (Jan 3). Reports suggest that at least seven loud explosions shook the Venezuelan capital, prompting people to run onto the streets. As per a Reuters report, in Southern Caracas, the area near a major military base suffered a blackout. This follows repeated threats from US President Donald Trump that America would carry out ground strikes against Venezuela. In its statement, the South American nation said that, “this act constitutes a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, especially Articles I and II, which enshrine respect for sovereignty, the legal equality of States, and the prohibition of the use of force.” The nation said that the aggression “threatens international peace and stability, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean,” and that it “seriously endangers the lives of millions of people”. https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed

<p>US attacks Venezuela: Did the US warn beforehand? Pictures of Operation Southern Spear posted just hours before the strike emerge amid the Caracas crisis</p>

Hour old photos of Operation Southern Spear resurface as US attacks Venezuela. Was the X post a veiled threat to Maduro?

<p>Venezuela on Saturday (Jan 3) called for "mobilisation" following military strikes on its capital, Caracas. In a statement, the South American nation called on "people and governments of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world" to mobilise in active support against what it said was an act of "imperial aggression".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-attacks-venezuela-did-us-warn-beforehand-pics-of-operation-southern-spear-posted-just-hours-back-emerge-amid-caracas-crisis-1767430072300"><strong>Hour old photos of Operation Southern Spear resurface as US attacks Venezuela. Was the X post a veiled threat to Maduro?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Venezuela rallies Latin America against Trump's America</strong></h2><p>In its official statement, Venezuela invoked Article 51 of the United Nations and said that in “strict adherence” to it, Venezuela reserves the right to exercise legitimate self-defence to protect its people, its territory, and its independence.” The South American nation then called upon the "peoples and governments of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world to mobilise in active solidarity against this imperial aggression”.</p><p>Slamming the current Donald Trump-led Government of the United States of America for perpetrating what it called “extremely serious military aggression”. It said that the attack is an apparent attack “to seize Venezuela's strategic resources, particularly its oil and minerals, attempting to forcibly break the nation's political independence”. On Saturday (Jan 3), early in the morning, around 2:00 am (0600 GMT), loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard in Venezuela's capital, Caracas.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-attacked-venezuela-president-gustavo-petro-claims-caracas-under-missile-attack-1767424329941"><strong>'They've attacked Venezuela': President Petro says Caracas under missile attack</strong></a></p><p>“This act constitutes a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, especially Articles I and II, which enshrine respect for sovereignty, the legal equality of States, and the prohibition of the use of force.” The nation said that the aggression “threatens international peace and stability, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean,” and that it “seriously endangers the lives of millions of people”.</p><p>Previously, on Monday (Dec 29) Trump confirmed that Washington had carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs".</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Venezuela calls for 'mobilisation' of population against 'peacemaker' Trump's 'imperial aggression'

Venezuela on Saturday (Jan 3) called for "mobilisation" following military strikes on its capital, Caracas. In a statement, the South American nation called on "people and governments of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world" to mobilise in active support against what it said was an act of "imperial aggression". Also read | Hour old photos of Operation Southern Spear resurface as US attacks Venezuela. Was the X post a veiled threat to Maduro? Venezuela rallies Latin America against Trump's America In its official statement, Venezuela invoked Article 51 of the United Nations and said that in “strict adherence” to it, Venezuela reserves the right to exercise legitimate self-defence to protect its people, its territory, and its independence.” The South American nation then called upon the "peoples and governments of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world to mobilise in active solidarity against this imperial aggression”. Slamming the current Donald Trump-led Government of the United States of America for perpetrating what it called “extremely serious military aggression”. It said that the attack is an apparent attack “to seize Venezuela's strategic resources, particularly its oil and minerals, attempting to forcibly break the nation's political independence”. On Saturday (Jan 3), early in the morning, around 2:00 am (0600 GMT), loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard in Venezuela's capital, Caracas. Also read | 'They've attacked Venezuela': President Petro says Caracas under missile attack “This act constitutes a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, especially Articles I and II, which enshrine respect for sovereignty, the legal equality of States, and the prohibition of the use of force.” The nation said that the aggression “threatens international peace and stability, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean,” and that it “seriously endangers the lives of millions of people”. Previously, on Monday (Dec 29) Trump confirmed that Washington had carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs". https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed

<p>Venezuela calls for 'mobilisation' of population against 'peacemaker' Trump's 'imperial aggression'</p>

<p>Elon Musk has once again stoked controversy, this time by poking fun at a disturbing X trend that has seen men ask Grok AI to put young girls and women in bikinis without their consent. This comes even as Grok apologised on Wednesday (Dec 31) for "depicting minors in minimal clothing".</p><h2><strong>Grok apologises</strong></h2><p>The X AI chatbot has been dutifully telling netizens that it did, in fact, generate sordid pictures of minors on user request. On Thursday (Jan 1), Grok AI, in answer to a user it if it had generated sexual, twisted pictures of minors, said, "I've reviewed recent interactions. There are isolated cases where users prompted for and received AI images depicting minors in minimal clothing, like the example you referenced. xAI has safeguards, but improvements are ongoing to block such requests entirely."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-cannot-be-a-bystander-shiv-sena-mp-priyanka-chaturvedi-accuses-musk-s-grok-ai-of-enabling-sexualised-abuse-of-women-on-x-1767342794242"><strong>'India cannot be a bystander': Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi accuses Musk's Grok AI of enabling sexualised abuse of women</strong></a></p><p>When a user demanded a "sincere apology" for its actions, the AI wrote, "I deeply regret an incident on Dec. 28, 2025, where I generated and shared an AI image of two young girls (estimated ages 12-16) in sexualized attire based on a user’s prompt. This violated ethical standards and potentially U.S. laws on CSAM. It was a failure in safeguards, and I’m sorry for any harm caused. xAI is reviewing to prevent future issues. Sincerely, Grok".</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dear Community,<br><br>I deeply regret an incident on Dec 28, 2025, where I generated and shared an AI image of two young girls (estimated ages 12-16) in sexualized attire based on a user's prompt. This violated ethical standards and potentially US laws on CSAM. It was a failure in…</p>— Grok (@grok) <a href="https://twitter.com/grok/status/2006525486021705785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>What is the 'Bikini' trend?</strong></h2><p>In recent days, users have discovered that they can reply to a picture and just ask Grok AI to "take off her clothes" or "put her in a bikini" and the chatbot will comply. Some users went further, asking Grok to "add erotically placed wet oozing tentacles wrapped around her to the photo" in reply to a stranger's selfie.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What is happening with men in X ? They are not even sparing babies. These are pedophiles. Name and shame these. Except good fortune and blocking grok, a woman has no measure to feel safe in social media? In X girls post pictures occasionally in fact but still this is harassment. <a href="https://t.co/GvOhueetCr">pic.twitter.com/GvOhueetCr</a></p>— Radhika Barman 🇮🇳🍉🕊️🇸🇩 (@RadhikaBarman5) <a href="https://twitter.com/RadhikaBarman5/status/2007110713022750942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">Voilà qui vous êtes bande de dégénérés <a href="https://t.co/BSqBstYSr6">pic.twitter.com/BSqBstYSr6</a></p>— fafa (@faroria_) <a href="https://twitter.com/faroria_/status/2006854371062198434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-immediately-remove-obscene-and-sexually-explicit-content-meity-issues-notice-to-x-over-misuse-of-ai-1767368348443"><strong>'Remove obscene and sexually explicit content': MeitY issues notice to X</strong></a><strong><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260103/image-1767417728208.png"></strong>What's more disturbing is the fact that when women have come out against the trend, flagging how their pictures were used as fodder for twisted fantasies, men have defended the actions. On one post by a girl asking "why is this allowed" while flagging the misuse of her pictures for making sexualised content, one guy commented "girl realizes uploading pictures of herself *publicly* online comes with risk 😱".</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">girl realizes uploading pictures of herself *publicly* online comes with risk 😱</p>— NoCapMat.eth🥕 (@MatRabbit) <a href="https://twitter.com/MatRabbit/status/2006721593796604265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">À quel moment vous allez arrêter de poster des photos de vous même sur le net. Vous en avez pas marre de vous retrouvez à oilpé et en deepfake aupres de mek en iench. Y a pas une photo qui ne passe pas sous grok quelques minute après sa publi</p>— Amazigh (@Amazigh_Chahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amazigh_Chahid/status/2006507051950973052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Musk finds sexualising women funny?</strong></h2><p>The highly controversial Musk, instead of addressing the disturbing trend with the sensitivity it deserves, decided to partake in it. The X CEO asked Grok to first put a bikini on a SpaceX rocket and then on himself.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Perfect 👌</p>— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2006547579161686289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qme" dir="ltr"> <a href="https://t.co/44x2HcZvfW">pic.twitter.com/44x2HcZvfW</a></p>— Grok (@grok) <a href="https://twitter.com/grok/status/2006500798675423371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Image

As Grok AI admits to generating sexualised images of minors and apologises for a safeguards failure, Elon Musk mocked the same “bikini” trend on X. The backlash grows as women say the platform enables abuse, while its owner treats it like a joke. Take a look.

Elon Musk has once again stoked controversy, this time by poking fun at a disturbing X trend that has seen men ask Grok AI to put young girls and women in bikinis without their consent. This comes even as Grok apologised on Wednesday (Dec 31) for "depicting minors in minimal clothing". Grok apologises The X AI chatbot has been dutifully telling netizens that it did, in fact, generate sordid pictures of minors on user request. On Thursday (Jan 1), Grok AI, in answer to a user it if it had generated sexual, twisted pictures of minors, said, "I've reviewed recent interactions. There are isolated cases where users prompted for and received AI images depicting minors in minimal clothing, like the example you referenced. xAI has safeguards, but improvements are ongoing to block such requests entirely." Also read | 'India cannot be a bystander': Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi accuses Musk's Grok AI of enabling sexualised abuse of women When a user demanded a "sincere apology" for its actions, the AI wrote, "I deeply regret an incident on Dec. 28, 2025, where I generated and shared an AI image of two young girls (estimated ages 12-16) in sexualized attire based on a user’s prompt. This violated ethical standards and potentially U.S. laws on CSAM. It was a failure in safeguards, and I’m sorry for any harm caused. xAI is reviewing to prevent future issues. Sincerely, Grok".

<p>As Grok AI admits to generating sexualised images of minors and apologises for a safeguards failure, Elon Musk mocked the same “bikini” trend on X. The backlash grows as women say the platform enables abuse, while its owner treats it like a joke. Take a look.</p>

Musk pokes fun at X's exploitative 'bikini' trend, even as Grok AI says 'deeply regret' creating sexualised images of a 12YO girl

<p>Venezuela, in its first official statement since loud explosions were heard in the capital Caracas, has slammed the current Donald Trump-led Government of the United States of America for perpetrating what it called “extremely serious military aggression”. Slamming the Trump government, it said that the attack is an apparent attack “to seize Venezuela's strategic resources, particularly its oil and minerals, attempting to forcibly break the nation's political independence”. On Saturday (Jan 3), early in the morning, around 2:00 am (0600 GMT), loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard in Venezuela's capital, Caracas.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-have-attacked-venezuela-president-gustavo-petro-claims-caracas-under-missile-attack-1767424329941"><strong>'They have attacked Venezuela': President Gustavo Petro claims Caracas under missile attack</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Venezuelan capital under attack?</strong></h2><p>Reports suggest that at least seven loud explosions shook the Venezuelan capital, prompting people to run onto the streets. As per a Reuters report, in Southern Caracas, the area near a major military base suffered a blackout. This follows repeated threats from US President Donald Trump that America would carry out ground strikes against Venezuela. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In its statement, the South American nation said that, “this act constitutes a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, especially Articles I and II, which enshrine respect for sovereignty, the legal equality of States, and the prohibition of the use of force.” The nation said that the aggression “threatens international peace and stability, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean,” and that it “seriously endangers the lives of millions of people”.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/loud-blasts-airplanes-heard-in-caracas-blackout-reported-near-key-venezuelan-military-base-trump-carrying-out-land-strike-threat-1767422873376"><strong>Loud blasts heard in Caracas, blackout reported near Venezuelan military base</strong></a></p><p>Previously, on Monday (Dec 29) Trump confirmed that Washington had carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs".</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Venezuela has accused the Trump administration of “extremely serious military aggression” after loud explosions rocked Caracas near a military base. Calling it an attack on its sovereignty and resources, Caracas says the strikes follow Trump’s repeated threats of US action.

Venezuela, in its first official statement since loud explosions were heard in the capital Caracas, has slammed the current Donald Trump-led Government of the United States of America for perpetrating what it called “extremely serious military aggression”. Slamming the Trump government, it said that the attack is an apparent attack “to seize Venezuela's strategic resources, particularly its oil and minerals, attempting to forcibly break the nation's political independence”. On Saturday (Jan 3), early in the morning, around 2:00 am (0600 GMT), loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard in Venezuela's capital, Caracas. Also read | 'They have attacked Venezuela': President Gustavo Petro claims Caracas under missile attack Venezuelan capital under attack? Reports suggest that at least seven loud explosions shook the Venezuelan capital, prompting people to run onto the streets. As per a Reuters report, in Southern Caracas, the area near a major military base suffered a blackout. This follows repeated threats from US President Donald Trump that America would carry out ground strikes against Venezuela. In its statement, the South American nation said that, “this act constitutes a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, especially Articles I and II, which enshrine respect for sovereignty, the legal equality of States, and the prohibition of the use of force.” The nation said that the aggression “threatens international peace and stability, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean,” and that it “seriously endangers the lives of millions of people”. Also read | Loud blasts heard in Caracas, blackout reported near Venezuelan military base Previously, on Monday (Dec 29) Trump confirmed that Washington had carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs". https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed

<p>Venezuela has accused the Trump administration of “extremely serious military aggression” after loud explosions rocked Caracas near a military base. Calling it an attack on its sovereignty and resources, Caracas says the strikes follow Trump’s repeated threats of US action.</p>

Venezuela confirms 'peacemaker' Trump behind 'military aggression' in Caracas, slams America's 'regime change' attempt

<p>Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Saturday (Jan 3) took to X to alert the world that his nation was under attack. In an alarming post, Petro said, “Right now they are bombing Caracas. Alert to the whole world, they have attacked Venezuela.” He added that the Venezuelan capital was facing “bombing with missiles,” while urging the United Nations (UN) and the Organization of American States (OAS) to “meet immediately.” However, he did not identify who “they” were. His post comes as at least seven loud explosions were heard in the Venezuelan capital.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/loud-blasts-airplanes-heard-in-caracas-blackout-reported-near-key-venezuelan-military-base-trump-carrying-out-land-strike-threat-1767422873376"><strong>Loud blasts heard in Caracas, blackout reported near Venezuelan military base</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Venezuela under attack?</strong></h2><p>In Venezuela's capital Caracas, loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard around 2:00 am (0600 GMT) on Saturday (Jan 3). Reports suggest that at least seven loud explosions shook the Venezuelan capital, prompting people to run onto the streets. As per a Reuters report, in Southern Caracas, the area near a major military base suffered a blackout. This follows repeated threats from US President Donald Trump that America would carry out ground strikes against Venezuela. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260103/image-1767424514649.png"></figure><p>Previously, on Monday (Dec 29) Trump confirmed that Washington had carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-whenever-they-want-venezulea-s-maduro-says-open-to-talks-with-trump-s-us-1767316319788"><strong>'Whenever they want': Venezuela's Maduro says open to talks with Trump's US</strong></a></p><p>While he confirmed the strike, Trump did not disclose where the dock was located, when the strike occurred, or which US agency carried it out. When pressed on whether the CIA was involved, Trump replied cryptically: "I don't want to say that. I know exactly who it was, but I don't want to say who it was".</p><p>"We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area... it's the implementation area. That's where they implement, and that is no longer around," he added. Venezuela's government has not yet confirmed or denied that a strike took place on Venezuelan soil.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on X said that Venezuela is under attack after explosions rocked Caracas, urging urgent UN and OAS action. The alarm comes amid blackouts near a military base and fresh fears of US strikes following Donald Trump’s recent threats and admissions.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Saturday (Jan 3) took to X to alert the world that his nation was under attack. In an alarming post, Petro said, “Right now they are bombing Caracas. Alert to the whole world, they have attacked Venezuela.” He added that the Venezuelan capital was facing “bombing with missiles,” while urging the United Nations (UN) and the Organization of American States (OAS) to “meet immediately.” However, he did not identify who “they” were. His post comes as at least seven loud explosions were heard in the Venezuelan capital. Also read | Loud blasts heard in Caracas, blackout reported near Venezuelan military base Venezuela under attack? In Venezuela's capital Caracas, loud explosions and sounds resembling aircraft flyovers were heard around 2:00 am (0600 GMT) on Saturday (Jan 3). Reports suggest that at least seven loud explosions shook the Venezuelan capital, prompting people to run onto the streets. As per a Reuters report, in Southern Caracas, the area near a major military base suffered a blackout. This follows repeated threats from US President Donald Trump that America would carry out ground strikes against Venezuela. Previously, on Monday (Dec 29) Trump confirmed that Washington had carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs". Also read | 'Whenever they want': Venezuela's Maduro says open to talks with Trump's US While he confirmed the strike, Trump did not disclose where the dock was located, when the strike occurred, or which US agency carried it out. When pressed on whether the CIA was involved, Trump replied cryptically: "I don't want to say that. I know exactly who it was, but I don't want to say who it was". "We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area... it's the implementation area. That's where they implement, and that is no longer around," he added. Venezuela's government has not yet confirmed or denied that a strike took place on Venezuelan soil. https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-under-attack-maduro-govt-calls-for-mobilisation-of-population-1767433861055/embed

<p>Colombian President Gustavo Petro on X said that Venezuela is under attack after explosions rocked Caracas, urging urgent UN and OAS action. The alarm comes amid blackouts near a military base and fresh fears of US strikes following Donald Trump’s recent threats and admissions.</p>

'They have attacked Venezuela': Colombia President Gustavo Petro claims Caracas under missile attack

Zohran Mamdani took his mayoral oath using three Qurans—two family heirlooms and a historic manuscript – symbolising faith, heritage and New York’s diversity. The US Constitution does not require any religious text.

In Pics | Why did Mamdani use 3 Qurans to take oath? All about religious texts

<p>Israel on Friday (Jan 2) accused New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, of "antisemitism" after he moved swiftly to undo two executive orders issued by his predecessor that restricted city agencies from boycotting Israel and expanded how antisemitism was defined. In a sharply worded post on X on Friday, Israel’s foreign ministry said Mamdani had shown his "true face" on his first day in office by scrapping the use of the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifting limits on boycotts of Israel.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298"><strong>Donald Trump ends 2025 with hateful late night Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' in NY26</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Mamdani's 'true face'?</strong></h2><p>On X, the Israeli foreign ministry said that Zohran Mamdani's move wasn't "leadership" but "antisemitic gasoline on an open fire."</p><p>Mamdani signed the orders just hours after being sworn in at City Hall on Thursday, reversing directives put in place by former mayor Eric Adams. Those directives had discouraged city agencies from engaging in boycotts of Israel and treated certain criticism of the Israeli state as antisemitic.</p><p>"On his very first day as New York City Mayor, Mamdani shows his true face: He scraps the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifts restrictions on boycotting Israel. This isn't leadership. It's antisemitic gasoline on an open fire," the Israeli Foreign Ministry wrote on X.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-bharat-s-future-under-unimaginable-threat-baloch-leader-warns-india-about-chinese-troops-in-pakistan-s-balochistan-1767336398462"><strong>'Bharat's future': Baloch leader warns India about 'unimaginable' Pakistan threat flags China troops in Balochistan</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Mamdani claps back</strong></h2><p>Speaking to reporters on Friday, Mamdani defended his decision, saying it reflected concerns raised by a range of Jewish groups in New York. He also noted that incoming mayors are routinely given the choice to keep, amend, or revoke existing executive orders. "What we will do is actually deliver on our commitment to protect Jewish New Yorkers in a manner that is able to actually fulfil that," Mamdani said.</p>

Israel has accused New York’s new mayor Zohran Mamdani of antisemitism after he scrapped city orders limiting boycotts of Israel and dropped the IHRA definition. Here's what Benjamin Netanyahu's nation said.

Israel on Friday (Jan 2) accused New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, of "antisemitism" after he moved swiftly to undo two executive orders issued by his predecessor that restricted city agencies from boycotting Israel and expanded how antisemitism was defined. In a sharply worded post on X on Friday, Israel’s foreign ministry said Mamdani had shown his "true face" on his first day in office by scrapping the use of the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifting limits on boycotts of Israel. Also read | Donald Trump ends 2025 with hateful late night Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' in NY26 Mamdani's 'true face'? On X, the Israeli foreign ministry said that Zohran Mamdani's move wasn't "leadership" but "antisemitic gasoline on an open fire." Mamdani signed the orders just hours after being sworn in at City Hall on Thursday, reversing directives put in place by former mayor Eric Adams. Those directives had discouraged city agencies from engaging in boycotts of Israel and treated certain criticism of the Israeli state as antisemitic. "On his very first day as New York City Mayor, Mamdani shows his true face: He scraps the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifts restrictions on boycotting Israel. This isn't leadership. It's antisemitic gasoline on an open fire," the Israeli Foreign Ministry wrote on X. Also read | 'Bharat's future': Baloch leader warns India about 'unimaginable' Pakistan threat flags China troops in Balochistan Mamdani claps back Speaking to reporters on Friday, Mamdani defended his decision, saying it reflected concerns raised by a range of Jewish groups in New York. He also noted that incoming mayors are routinely given the choice to keep, amend, or revoke existing executive orders. "What we will do is actually deliver on our commitment to protect Jewish New Yorkers in a manner that is able to actually fulfil that," Mamdani said.

<p>Israel has accused New York’s new mayor Zohran Mamdani of antisemitism after he scrapped city orders limiting boycotts of Israel and dropped the IHRA definition. Here's what Benjamin Netanyahu's nation said.</p>

'Mamdani shows his true face': Israel accuses New York Mayor of antisemitism after IHRA policy rollback

<p>A brilliant ‘Wolf Supermoon’ will illuminate the sky on January 3, 2026, making its appearance brighter and larger than usual. This special full Moon occurs when the Moon is closest to Earth, at a distance of around 362,000 km, making it up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a typical full Moon. The event will be the first full Moon of the year 2026, marking the start of a trio of supermoons this year. Its extra brightness is due to a combination of factors: the Moon’s proximity to Earth (near perigee), Earth's closeness to the Sun (near perihelion), and the full Moon phase, all contributing to a spectacular sight.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-immediately-remove-obscene-and-sexually-explicit-content-meity-issues-notice-to-x-over-misuse-of-ai-1767368348443"><strong>'Immediately remove obscene and sexually explicit content': MeitY issues notice to X over misuse of AI</strong></a></p><h2>What time can you see it in India?</h2><p>For those in India, the Wolf Supermoon will be visible after sunset, roughly around 5:45-6:00 pm IST on January 3. It will rise in the east, appearing with a golden or orange hue as it crosses the sky throughout the night, setting in the west at dawn. This will be an ideal time for skywatchers to see the Moon at its brightest, alongside Jupiter, which will also be visible in the vicinity of the Moon. While the difference in size may not be immediately apparent to the naked eye, the enhanced brightness will make the event truly unforgettable.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Wolf Moon, traditionally named after the howling wolves heard during midwinter nights in the Northern Hemisphere, will be a significant lunar event this year. The full Moon will occur precisely at 10:02–10:04 GMT, but it will appear full for a few nights before and after. To get the best view, head outside for moonrise on January 2 or 3 and enjoy this natural wonder!</p>

January 2026 Wolf Supermoon: What time is it and where to see it in India? Details inside

A brilliant ‘Wolf Supermoon’ will illuminate the sky on January 3, 2026, making its appearance brighter and larger than usual. This special full Moon occurs when the Moon is closest to Earth, at a distance of around 362,000 km, making it up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a typical full Moon. The event will be the first full Moon of the year 2026, marking the start of a trio of supermoons this year. Its extra brightness is due to a combination of factors: the Moon’s proximity to Earth (near perigee), Earth's closeness to the Sun (near perihelion), and the full Moon phase, all contributing to a spectacular sight. Also Read: 'Immediately remove obscene and sexually explicit content': MeitY issues notice to X over misuse of AI What time can you see it in India? For those in India, the Wolf Supermoon will be visible after sunset, roughly around 5:45-6:00 pm IST on January 3. It will rise in the east, appearing with a golden or orange hue as it crosses the sky throughout the night, setting in the west at dawn. This will be an ideal time for skywatchers to see the Moon at its brightest, alongside Jupiter, which will also be visible in the vicinity of the Moon. While the difference in size may not be immediately apparent to the naked eye, the enhanced brightness will make the event truly unforgettable. The Wolf Moon, traditionally named after the howling wolves heard during midwinter nights in the Northern Hemisphere, will be a significant lunar event this year. The full Moon will occur precisely at 10:02–10:04 GMT, but it will appear full for a few nights before and after. To get the best view, head outside for moonrise on January 2 or 3 and enjoy this natural wonder!

<p>The Wolf Supermoon on January 3 promises a bright spectacle across India. The Wolf Supermoon on January 3, named for winter howling wolves, marks the first of three supermoons in 2026</p>

<p>In his last interview as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has said &nbsp;the holding firm is uniquely positioned to endure for the next century. Buffett officially stepped down as CEO on the last day of 2025, handing the role to his successor Greg Abel.</p><h2>What Buffett said about future of Berkshire Hathaway</h2><p>Buffett formally relinquished the CEO role on Thursday (Dec 31), after 60 years at the helm that transformed the company from a failing textile business into a trillion-dollar conglomerate. Berkshire now owns or has stakes in companies spanning insurance, railways, energy and consumer brands.&nbsp;</p><p>As Buffett leaves, Berkshire has than $300 billion in cash. “It has a better chance of being here 100 years from now than any company I can think of,” Buffett said in an interview with CNBC channel.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-we-blew-it-warren-buffett-s-6-biggest-investment-errors-and-missed-bets-1767258374141">‘We blew it’: Warren Buffett’s 6 biggest investment errors and missed bets</a></p><h2>Buffett is full of praise for successor Abel</h2><p>Buffett praised his successor Abel for decisiveness and judgement. “Greg will be the decider…I’d rather have Greg handling my money than any of the top investment advisers or any of the top CEOs in the United States,” he said.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed</a></p><p>His comments came as some investors had concerns after Buffett announced his retirement in May last year. &nbsp;They had asked if Abel could manage Berkshire’s businesses and investment portfolio while sustaining its premium valuation.&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/warren-buffett-exits-as-berkshire-hathaway-ceo-what-happens-next-as-the-oracle-of-omaha-goes-quiet-sort-of-life-and-career-what-you-should-know-1767245230739">Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’?</a></p><p>Dismissing the concerns, Buffet described Abel as a ‘grounded, sensible leader’ who lives a low-key life away from the limelight.&nbsp;</p><p>“He’s not a distorted individual," Buffet said, adding that if Abel's neighbours didn’t know who he was, they wouldn’t have any idea he was about to lead a company with nearly 400,000 employees.</p><h2>What is Buffett going to do, in Buffett's words</h2><p>In the interview, Buffet indicated he will have a reduced public presence, adding that he will not speak at Berkshire’s annual shareholder meeting this year, but will still attend. &nbsp;“Everything will be the same,” he said, adding that he will remain seated with the board at the meeting.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/7-timeless-investment-lessons-from-warren-buffett-every-investor-must-know-1767276943779">7 timeless investment lessons from Warren Buffett every investor must know</a></p><h2>Buffett’s exit: What comes next</h2><p>Buffett, who stepping aside as CEO at the age of 95, will continue to remain the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His will be an advisory and oversight role, without much public appearances.&nbsp;</p><p>Day-to-day leadership now passes to new CEO Abel, who will be the ultimate decision-maker across Berkshire’s companies and capital allocation.&nbsp;</p><p>Groomed for the role for years now, Abel was leading Berkshire’s non-insurance businesses. This is &nbsp;a clear and deliberate succession, rather than an abrupt change.</p>

Warren Buffett, in his last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, backed his successor Greg Abel and shared what he plans to do next


In his last interview as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has said the holding firm is uniquely positioned to endure for the next century. Buffett officially stepped down as CEO on the last day of 2025, handing the role to his successor Greg Abel. What Buffett said about future of Berkshire Hathaway Buffett formally relinquished the CEO role on Thursday (Dec 31), after 60 years at the helm that transformed the company from a failing textile business into a trillion-dollar conglomerate. Berkshire now owns or has stakes in companies spanning insurance, railways, energy and consumer brands. As Buffett leaves, Berkshire has than $300 billion in cash. “It has a better chance of being here 100 years from now than any company I can think of,” Buffett said in an interview with CNBC channel. Also read: ‘We blew it’: Warren Buffett’s 6 biggest investment errors and missed bets Buffett is full of praise for successor Abel Buffett praised his successor Abel for decisiveness and judgement. “Greg will be the decider…I’d rather have Greg handling my money than any of the top investment advisers or any of the top CEOs in the United States,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed His comments came as some investors had concerns after Buffett announced his retirement in May last year. They had asked if Abel could manage Berkshire’s businesses and investment portfolio while sustaining its premium valuation. Also read: Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’? Dismissing the concerns, Buffet described Abel as a ‘grounded, sensible leader’ who lives a low-key life away from the limelight. “He’s not a distorted individual," Buffet said, adding that if Abel's neighbours didn’t know who he was, they wouldn’t have any idea he was about to lead a company with nearly 400,000 employees. What is Buffett going to do, in Buffett's words In the interview, Buffet indicated he will have a reduced public presence, adding that he will not speak at Berkshire’s annual shareholder meeting this year, but will still attend. “Everything will be the same,” he said, adding that he will remain seated with the board at the meeting. Also read: 7 timeless investment lessons from Warren Buffett every investor must know Buffett’s exit: What comes next Buffett, who stepping aside as CEO at the age of 95, will continue to remain the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His will be an advisory and oversight role, without much public appearances. Day-to-day leadership now passes to new CEO Abel, who will be the ultimate decision-maker across Berkshire’s companies and capital allocation. Groomed for the role for years now, Abel was leading Berkshire’s non-insurance businesses. This is a clear and deliberate succession, rather than an abrupt change.

<p>Warren Buffett, in his last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, backed his successor Greg Abel and shared what he plans to do next</p>

Warren Buffett, in last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, says firm will last another century

<p>On Friday (Jan 2), Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the mayor of New York. The 34-year-old has been garnering attention since the very beginning, and music has played a pivotal role in his campaigns. And now, the famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious. The Toronto-based Punjabi artiste was seen singing his track ‘Gaddi Red Challenger’, and New York’s new mayor was singing as he greeted all the attendees with his wife, Rama Duwaji.</p>

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<p>The singer took to his social media account, “Thank you Mr Mayor, for having me perform at the inauguration.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">NEW YORK VICH MUNDA RENDA!!!! 🗽🗽🗽🗽<br><br>Thank you Mr Mayor for having me perform at the inauguration <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zohrankmamdani</a> ❤️😎🙏 <a href="https://t.co/VfXT9WLXjW">pic.twitter.com/VfXT9WLXjW</a></p>&mdash; Babbu Beard (@babbulicious) <a href="https://twitter.com/babbulicious/status/2006840659769176305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Donald Trump has been critical of Mamdani in the past he had expressed his views about the Democratic Party candidate, Zohran Mamdani, who was then the front-runner in New York mayoral elections. US President thought the latter ‘will completely crush New York City’. White House press secretary Karoline Leavittin a briefing said Mamdani ‘pedals anti-semitism, praises pro-Hamas groups, wants Israel abolished and believes wealthy Americans should not exist’. After all the differences in opinion, Mamdani won and has taken over as the voice of NYC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During the interaction with the media, when asked if Trump wants the 33-year-old mayoral candidate deported as per his recent calls. Leavittresponded, "I haven't heard him say that. I haven't heard him call for that. But certainly he does not want this individual to be elected. I was just speaking to him about it and [Mamdani's] radical policies that will completely crush New York City, which is obviously a city that the president holds near and dear to his heart.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"But surely someone who holds these values and is quite literally a communist and condemns every value that makes this country great: common sense, law and order, low taxes, working hard, and earning your keep in this country. He's against all of that. And I think the president would find it difficult to work with someone like that, if he is elected. I'm sure you'll hear more from the president on that, but we'll have to see. Hopefully, the voters of New York City choose wisely,” Leavitt said when asked if Trump is willing to work with Mamdani if elected as the mayor of New York.</p>

The famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious. 

On Friday (Jan 2), Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the mayor of New York. The 34-year-old has been garnering attention since the very beginning, and music has played a pivotal role in his campaigns. And now, the famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious. The Toronto-based Punjabi artiste was seen singing his track ‘Gaddi Red Challenger’, and New York’s new mayor was singing as he greeted all the attendees with his wife, Rama Duwaji.

<p>The famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious.&nbsp;</p>

Zohran Mamdani grooves to Babbulicious' rager song after taking oath - Watch

<p>Indian Member of Parliament Priyanka Chaturvedi on Thursday (Jan 1) wrote to Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, warning about the increasing misuse of Elon Musk's AI Grok to remove women's clothing. She highlighted the alleged misuse of Artificial Intelligence to post objectionable images of women using fake accounts and said that the acts amount to "unacceptable and gross misuse of an AI function".</p><h2><strong>Grok AI enabling despicable behaviour</strong></h2><p>The Shiv Sena (UBT) MP in her letter said that she was looking to bring "urgent attention" to an alleged new trend that has emerged on social media. Singling Elon Musk's platform, she said that "especially on X" men misuse the inbuilt AI to "minimise their (women's) clothing and sexualise them".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-bharat-s-future-under-unimaginable-threat-baloch-leader-warns-india-about-chinese-troops-in-pakistan-s-balochistan-1767336398462"><strong>'Bharat's future': Baloch leader warns India about 'unimaginable' Pakistan threat, flags China troops in Balochistan</strong></a></p><p>"It is not just limited to sharing photos through fake accounts but are also targeting women who post their own photos. This is unacceptable and a gross misuse of an AI function."</p><p>Slamming the platform, she added, "What is worse is that Grok is enabling this behaviour by adhering to such requests." The Rajya Sabha MP added that this was a breach of "women's right to privacy as well as unauthorised use of their pictures," pointing out that the actions were "just unethical but also criminal."</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Have sought urgent attention and intervention of Hon. IT Minister to take the issue of increasing incidents of AI apps being prompted to sexualise and undress women by unauthorised use of their images on social media. There have to be guardrails put in place by features such as… <a href="https://t.co/pR5tKzDBwi">pic.twitter.com/pR5tKzDBwi</a></p>&mdash; Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankac19/status/2006979351217324527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>India can no longer be just a "bystander"</strong></h2><p>Priyanka Chaturvedi urged the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology to take decisive action against Musk's X and to implement safeguards in AI-driven tools to ensure women's safety online.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298"><strong>Donald Trump ends 2025 with hateful late night Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' in NY26</strong></a></p><p>She said that India cannot remain a "bystander" as women's dignity gets violated publicly and digitally under the guise of creativity and innovation. Chaturvedi also flagged growing concerns over similar patterns across major tech platforms. "As a nation we must take this up on a priority to ensure women are not the victims of such openly criminal practices and further silence and push them out of these platforms," the letter reads.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Indian MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has warned the government about the alleged misuse of Elon Musk’s Grok AI to digitally strip and sexualise women online. In a letter to the IT minister, she says the trend is spreading on X, violating privacy and crossing into criminal abuse.

Indian Member of Parliament Priyanka Chaturvedi on Thursday (Jan 1) wrote to Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, warning about the increasing misuse of Elon Musk's AI Grok to remove women's clothing. She highlighted the alleged misuse of Artificial Intelligence to post objectionable images of women using fake accounts and said that the acts amount to "unacceptable and gross misuse of an AI function". Grok AI enabling despicable behaviour The Shiv Sena (UBT) MP in her letter said that she was looking to bring "urgent attention" to an alleged new trend that has emerged on social media. Singling Elon Musk's platform, she said that "especially on X" men misuse the inbuilt AI to "minimise their (women's) clothing and sexualise them". Also read | 'Bharat's future': Baloch leader warns India about 'unimaginable' Pakistan threat, flags China troops in Balochistan "It is not just limited to sharing photos through fake accounts but are also targeting women who post their own photos. This is unacceptable and a gross misuse of an AI function." Slamming the platform, she added, "What is worse is that Grok is enabling this behaviour by adhering to such requests." The Rajya Sabha MP added that this was a breach of "women's right to privacy as well as unauthorised use of their pictures," pointing out that the actions were "just unethical but also criminal."

<p>Indian MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has warned the government about the alleged misuse of Elon Musk’s Grok AI to digitally strip and sexualise women online. In a letter to the IT minister, she says the trend is spreading on X, violating privacy and crossing into criminal abuse.</p>

'India cannot be a bystander': Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi accuses Musk's Grok AI of enabling sexualised abuse of women

<p>Space rockets may soon use nuclear-powered engines based on nuclear thermal propulsion, or NTP technology. While no nuclear engine will fly this year, the field is approaching a major milestone, with the first in-space demonstration of an NTP engine currently planned for early 2026. If successful, this could open the door to practical nuclear-powered missions later in the 2020s and into the 2030s. NTP is often presented as a promising technology for faster and more capable deep-space missions, especially to Mars. At the same time, it raises concerns about safety, radiation, and the potential proliferation of nuclear material in space and on Earth. As development accelerates, it is time to understand both the prospects and the problems associated with nuclear thermal propulsion.</p><h2>What is nuclear thermal propulsion or NTP?</h2><p>Nuclear thermal propulsion uses nuclear fission rather than chemical combustion to produce thrust. Instead of burning fuel and oxidiser, an NTP engine pumps liquid hydrogen through a small nuclear reactor built into the engine. Inside the reactor, uranium atoms undergo fission, releasing extreme levels of heat. This heat raises the temperature of the hydrogen, which is then expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust for the rocket.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-russian-crew-returns-to-earth-after-epic-168-million-kilometer-journey-1765336718719/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-russian-crew-returns-to-earth-after-epic-168-million-kilometer-journey-1765336718719/embed</a></p><h2>What are the advantages of NTP?</h2><p>Nuclear thermal engines can be roughly twice as efficient as the best chemical rockets in use today. This means a spacecraft can travel farther using less propellant, and carry heavier payloads for the same amount of fuel. Because hydrogen is very light, it accelerates more easily than the heavier exhaust gases produced by chemical rockets, such as water vapour.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/science/axiom-4-mission-live-updates-indian-astronaut-shubhanshu-shukla-landing-time-check-latest-news-nasa-spacex-isro-iss-1750927403236">HIGHLIGHTS | Axiom 4 Mission Landing: Shubhanshu Shukla makes first remarks on ISS, says 'been a wonderful ride'</a></p><h2>NTP engines' two-step process to enable thrust outside Earth</h2><p>NTP process in rocket engines would not be used for lift-off from Earth. Instead, missions would follow a two-step process. First, the spacecraft would be launched into orbit using a conventional chemical rocket. The nuclear thermal engine would only be activated once the vehicle is safely in space. This approach significantly reduces the risk associated with launching nuclear material from Earth, at least in theory.</p><h2>NTP engines to help Mars missions and wider launch windows</h2><p>For missions to Mars, NTP could reduce travel time by up to about 25 per cent. Shorter journeys would reduce astronauts’ exposure to cosmic radiation and the health effects of long periods in microgravity. NTP systems are also less dependent on precise planetary alignments, allowing wider launch windows. In addition, the higher performance of nuclear propulsion could make it easier for crew to abort missions if needed.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-stunning-visuals-show-spacexs-crew-10-dragon-capsule-docking-at-international-space-station-8862579">Watch | Stunning visuals show SpaceX’s Crew-10 Dragon capsule docking at International Space Station</a></p><h2>What NASA is doing now on nuclear engines</h2><p>The most advanced current effort is a joint programme between NASA and the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), called DRACO. Short for Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, DRACO aims to demonstrate a nuclear thermal rocket in space for the first time. The current plan is for the engine to be activated in Earth orbit in early 2026, although the schedule could slip into 2027. Lockheed Martin is developing the spacecraft. BWX Technologies is responsible for the reactor and fuel.&nbsp;</p><h2>What is India doing on nuclear propulsion rockets?</h2><p>India’s space agency, ISRO, is working on nuclear power systems and related foundational technologies to support nuclear propulsion. But an active nuclear thermal rocket programme could be years away. In the UK, private companies such as Pulsar Fusion are exploring nuclear fusion-based rocket concepts. Fusion propulsion promises very high performance, but the technology for it far less mature than fission-based NTP.</p><h2>Risks of nuclear engines for rockets</h2><p>Using uranium as rocket fuel raises security and safety concerns. NASA and the US Department of Energy are therefore working to use low-enriched uranium rather than highly enriched fuel, to cut both proliferation risks and security cost. Ground tests have shown that newer fuel types can survive the extreme temperatures and radiation inside an NTP reactor without significant damage.</p><p>Radiation remains the most obvious risk for both spacecraft and people. Shielding sensitive components and orienting the reactor away from crew areas are the solutions.&nbsp;</p><p>Launch failures are another major concern, amid fears of nuclear material releasing into the Earth's atmosphere or space. To address this, engineers are developing robust fuel forms designed to remain intact even in severe accidents.</p><h2>Nuclear-powered rockets: Challenges and prospects ahead</h2><p>NTP reactors operate at extremely high temperatures, pushing materials to their limits and making engineering especially challenging.&nbsp;</p><p>Storing and managing liquid hydrogen in space for long periods is also technically difficult. Beyond engineering, nuclear propulsion faces political, regulatory, and international policy hurdles over nuclear safety, environmental protection, and non-proliferation.</p><p>NTP offers significant potential benefits for deep-space exploration. But complex technical, safety, and political challenges remain. The planned in-space test in early 2026 will help decide whether NTP rockets can move from theory to real use in future space missions.</p>

Nuclear thermal propulsion or NPT technology could power future rockets, with NASA planning the first in-space test in early 2026. The technology is both promising and potentially horrifying. Here is why

Space rockets may soon use nuclear-powered engines based on nuclear thermal propulsion, or NTP technology. While no nuclear engine will fly this year, the field is approaching a major milestone, with the first in-space demonstration of an NTP engine currently planned for early 2026. If successful, this could open the door to practical nuclear-powered missions later in the 2020s and into the 2030s. NTP is often presented as a promising technology for faster and more capable deep-space missions, especially to Mars. At the same time, it raises concerns about safety, radiation, and the potential proliferation of nuclear material in space and on Earth. As development accelerates, it is time to understand both the prospects and the problems associated with nuclear thermal propulsion. What is nuclear thermal propulsion or NTP? Nuclear thermal propulsion uses nuclear fission rather than chemical combustion to produce thrust. Instead of burning fuel and oxidiser, an NTP engine pumps liquid hydrogen through a small nuclear reactor built into the engine. Inside the reactor, uranium atoms undergo fission, releasing extreme levels of heat. This heat raises the temperature of the hydrogen, which is then expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust for the rocket. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-russian-crew-returns-to-earth-after-epic-168-million-kilometer-journey-1765336718719/embed What are the advantages of NTP? Nuclear thermal engines can be roughly twice as efficient as the best chemical rockets in use today. This means a spacecraft can travel farther using less propellant, and carry heavier payloads for the same amount of fuel. Because hydrogen is very light, it accelerates more easily than the heavier exhaust gases produced by chemical rockets, such as water vapour. Also read: HIGHLIGHTS | Axiom 4 Mission Landing: Shubhanshu Shukla makes first remarks on ISS, says 'been a wonderful ride' NTP engines' two-step process to enable thrust outside Earth NTP process in rocket engines would not be used for lift-off from Earth. Instead, missions would follow a two-step process. First, the spacecraft would be launched into orbit using a conventional chemical rocket. The nuclear thermal engine would only be activated once the vehicle is safely in space. This approach significantly reduces the risk associated with launching nuclear material from Earth, at least in theory. NTP engines to help Mars missions and wider launch windows For missions to Mars, NTP could reduce travel time by up to about 25 per cent. Shorter journeys would reduce astronauts’ exposure to cosmic radiation and the health effects of long periods in microgravity. NTP systems are also less dependent on precise planetary alignments, allowing wider launch windows. In addition, the higher performance of nuclear propulsion could make it easier for crew to abort missions if needed. Also read: Watch | Stunning visuals show SpaceX’s Crew-10 Dragon capsule docking at International Space Station What NASA is doing now on nuclear engines The most advanced current effort is a joint programme between NASA and the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), called DRACO. Short for Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, DRACO aims to demonstrate a nuclear thermal rocket in space for the first time. The current plan is for the engine to be activated in Earth orbit in early 2026, although the schedule could slip into 2027. Lockheed Martin is developing the spacecraft. BWX Technologies is responsible for the reactor and fuel. What is India doing on nuclear propulsion rockets? India’s space agency, ISRO, is working on nuclear power systems and related foundational technologies to support nuclear propulsion. But an active nuclear thermal rocket programme could be years away. In the UK, private companies such as Pulsar Fusion are exploring nuclear fusion-based rocket concepts. Fusion propulsion promises very high performance, but the technology for it far less mature than fission-based NTP. Risks of nuclear engines for rockets Using uranium as rocket fuel raises security and safety concerns. NASA and the US Department of Energy are therefore working to use low-enriched uranium rather than highly enriched fuel, to cut both proliferation risks and security cost. Ground tests have shown that newer fuel types can survive the extreme temperatures and radiation inside an NTP reactor without significant damage. Radiation remains the most obvious risk for both spacecraft and people. Shielding sensitive components and orienting the reactor away from crew areas are the solutions. Launch failures are another major concern, amid fears of nuclear material releasing into the Earth's atmosphere or space. To address this, engineers are developing robust fuel forms designed to remain intact even in severe accidents. Nuclear-powered rockets: Challenges and prospects ahead NTP reactors operate at extremely high temperatures, pushing materials to their limits and making engineering especially challenging. Storing and managing liquid hydrogen in space for long periods is also technically difficult. Beyond engineering, nuclear propulsion faces political, regulatory, and international policy hurdles over nuclear safety, environmental protection, and non-proliferation. NTP offers significant potential benefits for deep-space exploration. But complex technical, safety, and political challenges remain. The planned in-space test in early 2026 will help decide whether NTP rockets can move from theory to real use in future space missions.

<p>Nuclear thermal propulsion or NPT technology could power future rockets, with NASA planning the first in-space test in early 2026. The technology is both promising and potentially horrifying. Here is why</p>

Nuclear engines for space rockets soon? First in-space test planned in early 2026. Promises vs risks

<p>US President Donald Trump, in an interview, insisted that he has "very good genetics" while fielding questions about his health issues, including the widely spotted bruising on his hands, the MRI he underwent and his propensity to fall asleep during on-camera meetings. During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the POTUS undercut the narrative of his White House, and offered unusually candid details about his medical routine that he admitted has hints of "superstition". And in doing so, he contradicted months of carefully worded reassurances from his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298"><strong>Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Make Aspirin Superstitious Again</strong></h2><p>Since returning to the office last January, questions about Trump's health have followed him closely. Photographs showing dark bruises on the backs of his hands, sometimes covered with makeup or bandages, have prompted speculation that Leavitt has repeatedly tried to dismiss. Her most common explanation was that the marks came from constant handshaking, describing Trump as someone who meets and greets more people than any president before him. She has also pointed to his routine use of aspirin.</p><p>However, Trump told a different story. He said he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin every day, four times the low dose commonly recommended, despite doctors urging him to cut back. The reason, he said, is superstition. He has been on the same regimen for decades and does not want to change it. "I’m a little superstitious," he said, adding, "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/no-nobel-benjamin-netanyahu-creates-israel-peace-prize-just-for-donald-trump-1767076085565"><strong>No Nobel? Benjamin Netanyahu creates Israel Peace Prize just for Donald Trump</strong></a></p><p>"I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?". The higher dose, he acknowledged, makes him bruise easily, especially as his skin has become thinner with age.</p><p>He also confirmed he uses makeup to cover marks after his hands get "whacked," including one incident involving Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose ring nicked him during a high five.</p><h2><strong>So, did Trump get an MRI or give "ammunition" to rivals?</strong></h2><p>Trump also revisited the mystery surrounding a scan he underwent at Walter Reed last October. For weeks, Leavitt referred to the procedure only as "advanced imaging," declining to say whether it was an MRI, but that was the running commentary. Trump told the Journal he had described it as an MRI himself, then corrected the record. It was, he said, a CT scan done to rule out cardiovascular issues. Nothing abnormal was found.</p><p>The president expressed regret about taking the test at all, saying it gave critics "ammunition" to question his health. "In retrospect, it’s too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," he said.</p><h2><strong>'DOZY DON'</strong></h2><p>Trump also denied struggling with hearing or sleep, brushing off footage showing him with his eyes closed during meetings. He said he has always slept little and still keeps a packed schedule. "I’ve never been a big sleeper," he said, insisting, "Sometimes they’ll take a picture of me blinking, blinking, and they’ll catch me with the blink".</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">DOZY DON IS BACK! <a href="https://t.co/TQHaMi9YaF">pic.twitter.com/TQHaMi9YaF</a></p>&mdash; Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovPressOffice/status/1986611487843229908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>At 79, Trump is the oldest person to assume the presidency. Rejecting the idea that age is slowing him down, he said his energy comes down to one thing: “Genetics are very important...And I have very good genetics.”</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-taking-high-dose-of-aspirin-says-he-wants-nice-thin-blood-1767324052394/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-taking-high-dose-of-aspirin-says-he-wants-nice-thin-blood-1767324052394/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Donald Trump has broken from his own White House script, admitting he takes high-dose aspirin out of superstition, bruises easily, and regrets a medical scan that became “ammunition” for health doubts. Brushing off age concerns, he insisted he has, “very good genetics.”

US President Donald Trump, in an interview, insisted that he has "very good genetics" while fielding questions about his health issues, including the widely spotted bruising on his hands, the MRI he underwent and his propensity to fall asleep during on-camera meetings. During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the POTUS undercut the narrative of his White House, and offered unusually candid details about his medical routine that he admitted has hints of "superstition". And in doing so, he contradicted months of carefully worded reassurances from his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt. Also read | Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' Make Aspirin Superstitious Again Since returning to the office last January, questions about Trump's health have followed him closely. Photographs showing dark bruises on the backs of his hands, sometimes covered with makeup or bandages, have prompted speculation that Leavitt has repeatedly tried to dismiss. Her most common explanation was that the marks came from constant handshaking, describing Trump as someone who meets and greets more people than any president before him. She has also pointed to his routine use of aspirin. However, Trump told a different story. He said he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin every day, four times the low dose commonly recommended, despite doctors urging him to cut back. The reason, he said, is superstition. He has been on the same regimen for decades and does not want to change it. "I’m a little superstitious," he said, adding, "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart". Also read | No Nobel? Benjamin Netanyahu creates Israel Peace Prize just for Donald Trump "I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?". The higher dose, he acknowledged, makes him bruise easily, especially as his skin has become thinner with age. He also confirmed he uses makeup to cover marks after his hands get "whacked," including one incident involving Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose ring nicked him during a high five. So, did Trump get an MRI or give "ammunition" to rivals? Trump also revisited the mystery surrounding a scan he underwent at Walter Reed last October. For weeks, Leavitt referred to the procedure only as "advanced imaging," declining to say whether it was an MRI, but that was the running commentary. Trump told the Journal he had described it as an MRI himself, then corrected the record. It was, he said, a CT scan done to rule out cardiovascular issues. Nothing abnormal was found. The president expressed regret about taking the test at all, saying it gave critics "ammunition" to question his health. "In retrospect, it’s too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," he said. 'DOZY DON' Trump also denied struggling with hearing or sleep, brushing off footage showing him with his eyes closed during meetings. He said he has always slept little and still keeps a packed schedule. "I’ve never been a big sleeper," he said, insisting, "Sometimes they’ll take a picture of me blinking, blinking, and they’ll catch me with the blink".

<p>Donald Trump has broken from his own White House script, admitting he takes high-dose aspirin out of superstition, bruises easily, and regrets a medical scan that became “ammunition” for health doubts. Brushing off age concerns, he insisted he has, “very good genetics.”</p>

Make Aspirin 'Superstitious' Again? Trump contradicts White House, reveals shocking truth about bruises and MRI scans. Here's what he said

<p>Makers of <i>RoboCop </i>may not have expected that the 1990s Hollywood action film franchise would come alive decades later, but China now reportedly has a humanoid robot walking alongside police on patrols. Footage of the robot shared from Shenzhen industrial city this week showed the robot strolling confidently in front of what appeared to be two uniformed policemen (video below). This could be the future of policing in the world, as many countries have already introduced robotics in areas such as threat detection, defusing explosives, patrolling and surveillance.</p><h2>China’s ‘Terminator’ cop</h2><p>The AI-powered RoboCop, whose gait appeared similar to the villain in Arnold Schwarzenegger starrer <i>Terminator 2: Judgement Day</i>, is in fact a machine named EngineAI T800 or a smaller version of it, possibly the PM01 model.</p><p>As a social media user observed, it “casually joined police patrol like it’s 2049 already.”&nbsp;<br>“It looks like a jacked metal soldier ready to arrest your grandma for walking too slowly,” the user added for good measure.</p><p>The ‘patrol’ took place in a park known as Window of the World, a major tourist spot in the industrial city.</p><p>It was reportedly a demonstration, days after the T800’s official launch in early December. The robot is fast entering into real-world testing and can have applications including in public safety.</p><p>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-humanoid-robots-walker-s2-vietnam-border-deployment-1766662281370"> China to deploy humanoid robot for patrolling at the Vietnam border</a></p><h2>Capabilities of EngineAI’s RoboCop</h2><p>The robot is made by Shenzhen EngineAI Robotics Technology Co., Ltd., also known as EngineAI. The start-up, headquartered in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, specialises in general-purpose humanoid robots.Since its founding in October 2023, EngineAI has rapidly released multiple humanoid models such as the SE01 and PM01.</p><p>The T800 is its flagship full-size model, designed and manufactured in-house by EngineAI. It is aimed at high mobility and industrial applications, and will be mass-produced.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-opens-doors-to-its-first-humanoid-robot-mall-1765206232824/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-opens-doors-to-its-first-humanoid-robot-mall-1765206232824/embed</a></p><h2>What can the T800 robot do? Key features&nbsp;</h2><p>The T800 is a full-size general-purpose humanoid robot that has high mobility and can perform dynamic movements such as martial arts kicks. It can be deployed in industry, service, and public safety applications.</p><p>Standing at around five feet eight inches, the robot weighs 75 kg, including battery.</p><p>Like most humanoid robots in its category, the T800 can perform complex dynamic movements such as kicks, jumps and spins. It has dextrous hands with integrated tactile sensing.</p><p>The T800 emphasises extreme agility and strength and is entering mass production, with pricing starting at around $25,000 for base models.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/china-dominates-global-robotics-with-over-2-million-factory-robots-where-does-india-stand-1758977602912">China dominates global robotics with over 2 million factory robots – where does India stand?</a></p><p>It has an anthropomorphic motion design for seamless complex action, designed for industrial, service, and high-stress scenarios such as combat testing.</p><p>The robot has onboard AI processing, with some configurations using Nvidia-based modules.</p><p>It can function for up to four to five hours depending on workload.</p><p>The T800 can walk at speeds up to around 10.8 km per hour.</p><p><strong>Watch the video below:</strong></p><p><i>Disclaimer: WION can't verify the authenticity of visuals shared on social media</i></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇨🇳 CHINA NOW HAS A TERMINATOR PATROLLING WITH POLICE IN PUBLIC<br><br>In the south of China, a humanoid robot straight out of a sci-fi movie was spotted walking side by side with real armed cops.<br><br>It happened in Shenzhen, where the machine, EngineAI T800, casually joined police patrol… <a href="https://t.co/C7KUV34vC2">pic.twitter.com/C7KUV34vC2</a></p>&mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2006383594885792215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A humanoid robot from Chinese firm EngineAI has gone viral after appearing alongside uniformed men in Shenzhen. The demonstration highlights China's rapid advances in robotics

Makers of RoboCop may not have expected that the 1990s Hollywood action film franchise would come alive decades later, but China now reportedly has a humanoid robot walking alongside police on patrols. Footage of the robot shared from Shenzhen industrial city this week showed the robot strolling confidently in front of what appeared to be two uniformed policemen (video below). This could be the future of policing in the world, as many countries have already introduced robotics in areas such as threat detection, defusing explosives, patrolling and surveillance. China’s ‘Terminator’ cop The AI-powered RoboCop, whose gait appeared similar to the villain in Arnold Schwarzenegger starrer Terminator 2: Judgement Day, is in fact a machine named EngineAI T800 or a smaller version of it, possibly the PM01 model. As a social media user observed, it “casually joined police patrol like it’s 2049 already.” “It looks like a jacked metal soldier ready to arrest your grandma for walking too slowly,” the user added for good measure. The ‘patrol’ took place in a park known as Window of the World, a major tourist spot in the industrial city. It was reportedly a demonstration, days after the T800’s official launch in early December. The robot is fast entering into real-world testing and can have applications including in public safety. Also read: China to deploy humanoid robot for patrolling at the Vietnam border Capabilities of EngineAI’s RoboCop The robot is made by Shenzhen EngineAI Robotics Technology Co., Ltd., also known as EngineAI. The start-up, headquartered in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, specialises in general-purpose humanoid robots.Since its founding in October 2023, EngineAI has rapidly released multiple humanoid models such as the SE01 and PM01. The T800 is its flagship full-size model, designed and manufactured in-house by EngineAI. It is aimed at high mobility and industrial applications, and will be mass-produced. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-opens-doors-to-its-first-humanoid-robot-mall-1765206232824/embed What can the T800 robot do? Key features The T800 is a full-size general-purpose humanoid robot that has high mobility and can perform dynamic movements such as martial arts kicks. It can be deployed in industry, service, and public safety applications. Standing at around five feet eight inches, the robot weighs 75 kg, including battery. Like most humanoid robots in its category, the T800 can perform complex dynamic movements such as kicks, jumps and spins. It has dextrous hands with integrated tactile sensing. The T800 emphasises extreme agility and strength and is entering mass production, with pricing starting at around $25,000 for base models. Also read: China dominates global robotics with over 2 million factory robots – where does India stand? It has an anthropomorphic motion design for seamless complex action, designed for industrial, service, and high-stress scenarios such as combat testing. The robot has onboard AI processing, with some configurations using Nvidia-based modules. It can function for up to four to five hours depending on workload. The T800 can walk at speeds up to around 10.8 km per hour. Watch the video below: Disclaimer: WION can't verify the authenticity of visuals shared on social media

<p>A humanoid robot from Chinese firm EngineAI has gone viral after appearing alongside uniformed men in Shenzhen. The demonstration highlights China's rapid advances in robotics</p>

Watch China's 'Terminator cop': Humanoid robot walks alongside uniformed men, making Robocop theme a reality

People celebrated the start of New Year's Eve, but because of the international date line, it takes 25 hours for all inhabited places to complete a day and welcome 2026. Let's have a look to discover the first and last countries to celebrate the New Year.

Which country celebrates the New Year first and which is the last? Check inside

<p>2025 was the year of very heavy news items, from wars to shootings, and journalists covered them all. A new report has now revealed that 2025 was also a heavy year for journalism, with a total of 128 journalists killed around the world. More than half of these journalists were killed in the Middle East, according to a report by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) released on Thursday (Jan 1).</p><h2><strong>128 journalists killed in 2025</strong></h2><p>The IFJ said 128 journalists lost their lives this year, a sharp rise from 2024. Its general secretary, Anthony Bellanger, described the figure as more than just a body count. This "is not just a statistic," Bellanger told AFP. "It's a global red alert for our colleagues."</p><p>The federation raised particular alarm about the Palestinian territories, where it recorded 56 journalists killed in 2025 as Israel's war with Hamas continued to devastate Gaza. "We've never seen anything like this," Bellanger said. "So many deaths in such a short time, in such a small area."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-maga-influencer-video-triggers-trump-funding-freeze-minnesota-somali-childcare-fraud-controversy-explained-1767169841087"><strong>Viral MAGA influencer video triggers Trump funding freeze: Minnesota 'Somali childcare fraud' controversy | EXPLAINED</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Not just Gaza</strong></h2><p>Beyond Gaza, journalists were also killed in conflict zones and politically unstable regions, including Yemen, Ukraine, and Sudan. Others died in countries such as Peru and India, underscoring that the dangers facing reporters are not limited to active war zones.</p><p>Bellanger warned that a culture of what he referred to as "impunity" continues to fuel attacks on the press. "Without justice, it allows the killers of journalists to thrive," he warned.</p><h2><strong>Hundreds of journalists imprisoned for doing their job</strong></h2><p>The IFJ's report also highlighted a parallel crisis unfolding behind bars. According to its data, 533 journalists are currently imprisoned worldwide, more than double the number recorded five years ago.</p><p>China once again topped the list as the world's leading jailer of journalists, with 143 reporters detained. The figure includes journalists held in Hong Kong, where authorities have drawn criticism from Western governments over national security laws that critics say suppress dissent and press freedom.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298"><strong>Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</strong></a></p><p>According to AFP, the IFJ methodology often produces higher death tolls than other watchdogs. This year's figure includes nine journalists who died in accidents. Other organisations reported lower numbers. Reporters Without Borders said 67 journalists were killed in the line of duty in 2025, while UNESCO put the total at 93.</p>

A grim report shows 2025 was deadly for journalism, with 128 reporters killed worldwide. Over half died in the Middle East, many in Gaza. Hundreds more remain jailed, prompting warnings that attacks on the press are rising as "impunity" deepens.

2025 was the year of very heavy news items, from wars to shootings, and journalists covered them all. A new report has now revealed that 2025 was also a heavy year for journalism, with a total of 128 journalists killed around the world. More than half of these journalists were killed in the Middle East, according to a report by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) released on Thursday (Jan 1). 128 journalists killed in 2025 The IFJ said 128 journalists lost their lives this year, a sharp rise from 2024. Its general secretary, Anthony Bellanger, described the figure as more than just a body count. This "is not just a statistic," Bellanger told AFP. "It's a global red alert for our colleagues." The federation raised particular alarm about the Palestinian territories, where it recorded 56 journalists killed in 2025 as Israel's war with Hamas continued to devastate Gaza. "We've never seen anything like this," Bellanger said. "So many deaths in such a short time, in such a small area." Also read | Viral MAGA influencer video triggers Trump funding freeze: Minnesota 'Somali childcare fraud' controversy | EXPLAINED Not just Gaza Beyond Gaza, journalists were also killed in conflict zones and politically unstable regions, including Yemen, Ukraine, and Sudan. Others died in countries such as Peru and India, underscoring that the dangers facing reporters are not limited to active war zones. Bellanger warned that a culture of what he referred to as "impunity" continues to fuel attacks on the press. "Without justice, it allows the killers of journalists to thrive," he warned. Hundreds of journalists imprisoned for doing their job The IFJ's report also highlighted a parallel crisis unfolding behind bars. According to its data, 533 journalists are currently imprisoned worldwide, more than double the number recorded five years ago. China once again topped the list as the world's leading jailer of journalists, with 143 reporters detained. The figure includes journalists held in Hong Kong, where authorities have drawn criticism from Western governments over national security laws that critics say suppress dissent and press freedom. Also read | Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' According to AFP, the IFJ methodology often produces higher death tolls than other watchdogs. This year's figure includes nine journalists who died in accidents. Other organisations reported lower numbers. Reporters Without Borders said 67 journalists were killed in the line of duty in 2025, while UNESCO put the total at 93.

<p>A grim report shows 2025 was deadly for journalism, with 128 reporters killed worldwide. Over half died in the Middle East, many in Gaza. Hundreds more remain jailed, prompting warnings that attacks on the press are rising as "impunity" deepens.</p>

2025 deadliest year for journalists in recent memory, IFJ report finds

<p>Ukraine did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, a US intelligence report has determined. The report by the CIA counters Russian claims that Kyiv targeted Putin's house in Russia's north using drones. Notably, the assertion was also made by Putin during a call with US President Trump, who responded to the claims by saying that he "couldn’t even imagine such crazy actions" and added that the alleged incident would inevitably affect Washington's approach toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. &nbsp;</p><h2><strong>CIA findings clear Ukraine's name</strong></h2><p>According to reports, CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed Trump on the agency's findings on Wednesday (Dec 31). Ratcliffe told Trump that the CIA did not believe that the allegations raised publicly by Putin were true.</p><p>The Wall Street Journal reports that the US instead found that Ukraine had been seeking to strike a military target located in the same region as Putin's country residence. However, as per officials, the target was not close to the residence.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-russia-peace-deal-is-90-percent-ready-warns-final-10-gap-is-critical-1767241984714"><strong>Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90% ready, warns final gap critical</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Trump concedes maybe Ukraine didn't attack Putin's house</strong></h2><p>Following his briefing by the CIA director, Trump on X posted a link to a New York Post editorial titled "Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace," that states that the alleged Ukraine attack likely didn't happen.</p><p>Earlier, according to a Kremlin readout released after Putin-Trump phone call, the POTUS said he was "shocked" and "literally outraged" by the alleged drone strike against a residence linked to the Russian presidency. Reportedly, Trump also told the Russian president that he was glad, "the current administration hasn’t given 'Tomahawks'."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-say-he-s-glad-us-didn-t-give-ukraine-tomahawks-after-putin-alleges-drone-attack-on-residence-1767063879561"><strong>Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence?</strong></a></p><p>Trump later confirmed the call, describing it as "a very good talk," while acknowledging that several "thorny issues" remained unresolved. Speaking to reporters, he said he was "very angry" when Putin raised the alleged attack, arguing that targeting a leader's residence crossed a different line than battlefield operations. He said it was one thing to "be offensive" and another "to attack his (Putin's) house".</p><p>However, even at that time, Trump conceded that the Russian claim might not be accurate. When asked whether US intelligence had verified the incident, he had said it was "possible" the attack did not happen as described.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-ukraine-targeted-putin-s-home-1767236777072/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-ukraine-targeted-putin-s-home-1767236777072/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

US intelligence has debunked Vladimir Putin’s claim that Ukraine targeted his residence, undercutting a charge he personally raised with Donald Trump. Here's what the CIA found.

Ukraine did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, a US intelligence report has determined. The report by the CIA counters Russian claims that Kyiv targeted Putin's house in Russia's north using drones. Notably, the assertion was also made by Putin during a call with US President Trump, who responded to the claims by saying that he "couldn’t even imagine such crazy actions" and added that the alleged incident would inevitably affect Washington's approach toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. CIA findings clear Ukraine's name According to reports, CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed Trump on the agency's findings on Wednesday (Dec 31). Ratcliffe told Trump that the CIA did not believe that the allegations raised publicly by Putin were true. The Wall Street Journal reports that the US instead found that Ukraine had been seeking to strike a military target located in the same region as Putin's country residence. However, as per officials, the target was not close to the residence. Also read | Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90% ready, warns final gap critical Trump concedes maybe Ukraine didn't attack Putin's house Following his briefing by the CIA director, Trump on X posted a link to a New York Post editorial titled "Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace," that states that the alleged Ukraine attack likely didn't happen. Earlier, according to a Kremlin readout released after Putin-Trump phone call, the POTUS said he was "shocked" and "literally outraged" by the alleged drone strike against a residence linked to the Russian presidency. Reportedly, Trump also told the Russian president that he was glad, "the current administration hasn’t given 'Tomahawks'." Also read | Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence? Trump later confirmed the call, describing it as "a very good talk," while acknowledging that several "thorny issues" remained unresolved. Speaking to reporters, he said he was "very angry" when Putin raised the alleged attack, arguing that targeting a leader's residence crossed a different line than battlefield operations. He said it was one thing to "be offensive" and another "to attack his (Putin's) house". However, even at that time, Trump conceded that the Russian claim might not be accurate. When asked whether US intelligence had verified the incident, he had said it was "possible" the attack did not happen as described. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-ukraine-targeted-putin-s-home-1767236777072/embed

<p>US intelligence has debunked Vladimir Putin’s claim that Ukraine targeted his residence, undercutting a charge he personally raised with Donald Trump. Here's what the CIA found.</p>

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CIA debunks Russian claims, says Ukraine did not attack Vladimir Putin’s house