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Nigerian Navy discovers 99,000 litres of suspected stolen, illegally refined products as it intensifies anti-crude oil theft operations

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BRICS 2026: $1 trillion sovereign capital set to converge in Delhi for first iBRICS Summit

What is Iran's Pickaxe Mountain that Trump has again threatened to bomb?

UN votes to correct world map that visually shrank Africa for 450 years

Former NewJeans member Danielle launches YouTube channel, hints at new solo journey

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Krishna Janmashtami 2026: From Dhaniya Panjiri to Makhana Kheer- 5 best sweet dishes perfect for celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth

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New Friday OTT releases (September 4, 2026): GDN, Dhamaal 4, Jagamae Sangeetham- Watch 6 new movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest

Israel continued to pound Gaza as its war with Hamas rages on. In the latest, Israel and Hamas have reached a new deal to deliver medicine and humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza strip. The deal was agreed only in exchange for getting medicine delivered to Israeli hostages in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war | Aid trucks enter Gaza through Rafah border crossing

Republicans (GOP) candidates are preparing for the New Hampshire primary and working to get voters on their side. Many of the candidates are engaging with voters in the traditional town hall setting, but former President Donald Trump has also continued his large campaign rallies.

US Elections 2024: GOP candidates head to New Hampshire, here's what to know

Kuwait on Wednesday formed a government headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah, the state news agency said, the country's first cabinet after the death of its previous ruler.

Sheikh Mohammed appointed new ministers for oil, finance and foreign affairs in the first cabinet formed under Kuwait's new Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, which he said would carry out reforms to comply with the emir's guidance.

"This is a heavy responsibility of a new phase of Kuwait's history which includes challenges and aspirations, and requires further hard work and genuine accomplishment," the prime minister said, quoted by KUNA.

The prime minister appointed Emad Mohammed al-Atiqi as oil minister, Anwar Ali al-Mudhaf as finance minister and Abdullah Ali al-Yahya as foreign minister.

Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, who came to power in December after his predecessor Sheikh Nawaf died, is expected to preserve Kuwaiti foreign policies including support for Gulf Arab unity, Western alliances, and good ties with&nbsp;Riyadh - a relationship seen as a priority.

Kuwait will have to grapple with long-running strains between the ruling family and its critics in the deadlocked and fractious parliament that critics say has hindered fiscal and economic reform.

The legislature wields more influence than similar bodies in other Gulf monarchies, and political deadlock has for decades led to cabinet reshuffles and dissolutions of parliament.

Kuwait on Wednesday formed a government headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah, the state news agency said, the country's first cabinet after the death of its previous ruler.

Kuwait on Wednesday formed a government headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah, the state news agency said, the country's first cabinet after the death of its previous ruler. Sheikh Mohammed appointed new ministers for oil, finance and foreign affairs in the first cabinet formed under Kuwait's new Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, which he said would carry out reforms to comply with the emir's guidance. "This is a heavy responsibility of a new phase of Kuwait's history which includes challenges and aspirations, and requires further hard work and genuine accomplishment," the prime minister said, quoted by KUNA. The prime minister appointed Emad Mohammed al-Atiqi as oil minister, Anwar Ali al-Mudhaf as finance minister and Abdullah Ali al-Yahya as foreign minister. Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, who came to power in December after his predecessor Sheikh Nawaf died, is expected to preserve Kuwaiti foreign policies including support for Gulf Arab unity, Western alliances, and good ties with Riyadh - a relationship seen as a priority. Kuwait will have to grapple with long-running strains between the ruling family and its critics in the deadlocked and fractious parliament that critics say has hindered fiscal and economic reform. The legislature wields more influence than similar bodies in other Gulf monarchies, and political deadlock has for decades led to cabinet reshuffles and dissolutions of parliament.

Kuwait forms first government under new emir and prime minister

Russian police use tear gas to disperse protests that erupted in the central Bashkortostan region after a court sentenced a local activist to four years in prison. Fail Alsynov, who campaigns against gold mining in the Urals region and advocates for the protection of the large ethnic Bashkir population's language, was sentenced for "inciting hatred" in the town of Baymak.

Putin says 2020 US elections rigged, gets signatures from donetsk ahead of elections

Iran backed Houthi rebels continue assault on commercial vessels. Rise in commercial vessels at Sri Lanka port amid Red Sea tensions. Colombo Port provides convenient access between Africa, West Asia. Watch to know more!

Sri Lanka's port sees jump in traffic amid Red Sea tensions

Thousands of opposition supporters rallied peacefully in the Serbian capital Belgrade on Tuesday in an anti-government protest to demand the annulment of last month's elections, which were described by international observers as unfair.

Serbian Opposition rallies in Belgrade demand annulment of December election results

Pakistan recalled its ambassador to Iran after the attack on the Balochistan province by Iranian forces killing two children. Pakistan on Wednesday recalled its ambassador to Iran after the latter launched attacks on the Balochistan province.

Pakistan reacts after Iran's deadly strike, calls the attack 'unacceptable'

Pakistan has warned Iran of "serious consequences" after an Iranian strike inside its borders killed two children. Iran says the missiles targetted a terror group. Could this lead to a bigger regional conflict? Priyanka Sharma speaks to Ambassador Anil Trigunayat.

Pakistan warns Iran of "serious consequences" after missile attack

US Elections 2024: GOP candidates head to New Hampshire | Primaries on January 23

As tensions escalate, Islamabad has decided to recall its Iran envoy dubbing Tehran’s s deadly strikes as illegal and unacceptable. In addition, the south Asian country has suspended all high-level planned engagements between the two countries. Iran's strikes reportedly killed two and injured three in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

Pak calls Iran attack 'unacceptable & illegal'

In central Thailand, a devastating explosion at a fireworks factory claimed the lives of at least 20&nbsp;people, reported AFP. The incident occurred around 3:00 pm near Sala Khao township in the central Suphan Buri province, sending shockwaves through the community.

While the immediate aftermath witnessed the loss of 18 lives, authorities, including the police, were still in the process of confirming the official death toll. Police Colonel Theerapoj Rawangban expressed the ongoing efforts to ascertain the exact number of casualties, stating, "There were deaths; we are checking how many people died." The situation remained fluid, with the severity of the incident yet to be fully determined.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-traces-of-new-deadly-bat-virus-which-can-infect-humans-found-inside-cave-says-report-679874">Also read |&nbsp;Thailand: Traces of new deadly bat virus which can infect humans found inside cave, says report</a>

<h2>Mysterious blast</h2>

The explosion, shrouded in uncertainty, lacked a clear indication of its cause. Authorities were grappling with the task of unraveling the circumstances that led to the tragic incident.

Despite the devastation at the fireworks factory, there was a fortunate lack of additional damage to nearby houses or the surrounding community, according to Police Colonel Theerapoj Rawangban.

Disturbing images shared by the local rescue service depicted a grim scene, with metal debris scattered across the ground. A towering plume of black smoke billowed into the sky, serving as a visual testament to the severity of the explosion. The local community found itself grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: How Thailand's Ayutthaya is related to Ayodhya &amp; Lord Ram

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ram-mandir-ayodhya-how-thailands-ayutthaya-is-related-to-ayodhya-lord-ram-680828/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Explosions in workshops engaged in the production of firecrackers and pyrotechnics are sadly not uncommon in Thailand. Last year, a similar incident occurred in Sungai Kolok town in southern Narathiwat province, resulting in 10 deaths and over 100 injuries. The recurrence of such incidents raises concerns about safety measures within the industry.

Beyond the pyrotechnic industry, Thailand grapples with broader safety challenges, particularly in the construction sector. The nation has a lamentable safety record, and fatal accidents are regrettably frequent.

(With inputs from agencies)

In central Thailand, a devastating explosion at a fireworks factory claimed the lives of at least 20 people, reported AFP. The incident occurred around 3:00 pm near Sala Khao township in the central Suphan Buri province, sending shockwaves through the community.

In central Thailand, a devastating explosion at a fireworks factory claimed the lives of at least 20 people, reported AFP. The incident occurred around 3:00 pm near Sala Khao township in the central Suphan Buri province, sending shockwaves through the community. While the immediate aftermath witnessed the loss of 18 lives, authorities, including the police, were still in the process of confirming the official death toll. Police Colonel Theerapoj Rawangban expressed the ongoing efforts to ascertain the exact number of casualties, stating, "There were deaths; we are checking how many people died." The situation remained fluid, with the severity of the incident yet to be fully determined. Also read | Thailand: Traces of new deadly bat virus which can infect humans found inside cave, says report Mysterious blast The explosion, shrouded in uncertainty, lacked a clear indication of its cause. Authorities were grappling with the task of unraveling the circumstances that led to the tragic incident. Despite the devastation at the fireworks factory, there was a fortunate lack of additional damage to nearby houses or the surrounding community, according to Police Colonel Theerapoj Rawangban. Disturbing images shared by the local rescue service depicted a grim scene, with metal debris scattered across the ground. A towering plume of black smoke billowed into the sky, serving as a visual testament to the severity of the explosion. The local community found itself grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. Also watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: How Thailand's Ayutthaya is related to Ayodhya & Lord Ram Explosions in workshops engaged in the production of firecrackers and pyrotechnics are sadly not uncommon in Thailand. Last year, a similar incident occurred in Sungai Kolok town in southern Narathiwat province, resulting in 10 deaths and over 100 injuries. The recurrence of such incidents raises concerns about safety measures within the industry. Beyond the pyrotechnic industry, Thailand grapples with broader safety challenges, particularly in the construction sector. The nation has a lamentable safety record, and fatal accidents are regrettably frequent. (With inputs from agencies)

Explosion at Thai firework factory kills over 20, no survivors found

Two Russian missiles struck a residential area in the centre of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv on Tuesday, injuring 17 people, two of them seriously, and badly damaging homes, local officials said.

Rescue teams were sifting through piles of rubble to establish whether others were hurt. The city's mayor described two "powerful explosions" and said at least 10 dwellings had been damaged.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia will 'intensify' attacks on Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-vladimir-putin-says-russia-will-intensify-attacks-on-ukraine-676269/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ukraine's Emergency Services, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said one of the missiles had hit a three-storey building that had previously housed a medical centre.

Fires were extinguished in two buildings and residential and other buildings sustained damage.

Regional Police Chief Volodymyr Tymoshko told public broadcaster Suspilne that one of the missiles had hit a roadway.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-voronezh-declares-state-of-emergency-as-ukraine-drone-attack-injures-two-children-680554">Russia’s Voronezh declares state of emergency as Ukraine drone attack injures two children</a>

Emergency services posted online photos showing rescue teams poring over piles of smashed building materials, tackling fires, scrambling up ladders to damaged upper storeys and helping evacuees board minibuses.

Kharkiv Regional Governor Oleh Synehubov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said 17 people had been injured. Fourteen were in hospital, including two women who were seriously hurt.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-unleashes-40-missiles-in-overnight-assault-ukraines-military-production-complex-hit-679628">Russia unleashes 40 missiles in overnight assault; Ukraine’s military production complex hit</a>

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, also writing on Telegram, said the missiles struck "precisely where there is no military infrastructure and precisely where there are in fact residences."

"There are at least 10 damaged buildings. Rescue teams are continuing to go through the rubble. And there is plenty of rubble." 
 
Kharkiv, in Ukraine's northeast, has been a frequent target of attacks, but in the space of the nearly two-year-old conflict, the city has not fallen into Russian hands. Russian missiles hit a hotel in the city last week, injuring 11 people.

Two Russian missiles struck a residential area in the centre of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv on Tuesday, injuring 17 people, two of them seriously, and badly damaging homes, local officials said.

Two Russian missiles struck a residential area in the centre of Ukraine's second city Kharkiv on Tuesday, injuring 17 people, two of them seriously, and badly damaging homes, local officials said. Rescue teams were sifting through piles of rubble to establish whether others were hurt. The city's mayor described two "powerful explosions" and said at least 10 dwellings had been damaged. WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia will 'intensify' attacks on Ukraine Ukraine's Emergency Services, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said one of the missiles had hit a three-storey building that had previously housed a medical centre. Fires were extinguished in two buildings and residential and other buildings sustained damage. Regional Police Chief Volodymyr Tymoshko told public broadcaster Suspilne that one of the missiles had hit a roadway. ALSO READ | Russia’s Voronezh declares state of emergency as Ukraine drone attack injures two children Emergency services posted online photos showing rescue teams poring over piles of smashed building materials, tackling fires, scrambling up ladders to damaged upper storeys and helping evacuees board minibuses. Kharkiv Regional Governor Oleh Synehubov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said 17 people had been injured. Fourteen were in hospital, including two women who were seriously hurt. ALSO READ | Russia unleashes 40 missiles in overnight assault; Ukraine’s military production complex hit Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, also writing on Telegram, said the missiles struck "precisely where there is no military infrastructure and precisely where there are in fact residences." "There are at least 10 damaged buildings. Rescue teams are continuing to go through the rubble. And there is plenty of rubble." Kharkiv, in Ukraine's northeast, has been a frequent target of attacks, but in the space of the nearly two-year-old conflict, the city has not fallen into Russian hands. Russian missiles hit a hotel in the city last week, injuring 11 people.

At least 17 injured after Russian missiles hit Ukraine’s Kharkiv

The party nomination race for the US presidential election has now moved to the US state of New Hampshire. After a historic win in Iowa for US former president Donald Trump, the New Hampshire primary is set to take place on the 23rd of January.

Republican Presidency nominations race reach New Hampshire

Trump back in courthouse for second defamation trial. Elle magazine columnist claims Trump defamed her in 2019. E. Jean Carroll seeks $10 million in defamation case against trump. Watch to know more!

Trump back in courthouse; Trump again in court for second defamation trial

Russia is developing its relations with North Korea in all areas, including "sensitive" ones, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday.

North Korea's foreign minister lauded comradely ties with Russia on Tuesday and then held rare talks in the Kremlin with President Vladimir Putin, who has been invited by Kim Jong Un to visit the reclusive nuclear-armed country.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia, North Korea leaders meet in Moscow, Putin set to visit North Korea

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-north-korea-leaders-meet-in-moscow-putin-set-to-visit-north-korea-680701/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Asked about the talks in Moscow, Peskov said the situation on the Korean peninsula was discussed, but that the main focus was on developing bilateral relations.

"The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is our very important partner, and we are focussed on the further development of our relations in all areas, including in sensitive areas," Peskov told reporters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-north-korea-supplied-russia-with-missiles-for-ukraine-attacks-676691">US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks</a>

Putin has deepened ties with North Korea since sending troops into Ukraine in 2022, and the United States and its allies have condemned what they say have been significant North Korean missile deliveries to Russia to help its war effort.

Both Russia and North Korea have repeatedly dismissed the criticism. Moscow says it will develop ties with whatever countries it wants and that its cooperation with Pyongyang does not contravene international agreements.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-kim-putin-meet-train-traffic-between-north-korea-and-russia-spikes-643622">After Kim-Putin meet, train traffic between North Korea and Russia spikes</a>

Russia has gone out of its way to publicise the renaissance of its relationship, including military ties, with North Korea, which was formed in 1948 with the backing of the then-Soviet Union.

For Putin, who says Russia is locked in an existential battle with the West over Ukraine, courting Kim allows him to needle Washington and its Asian allies while securing a deep supply of artillery for the Ukraine war.

Russia is developing its relations with North Korea in all areas, including "sensitive" ones, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. North Korea's foreign minister lauded comradely ties with Russia on Tuesday and then held rare talks in the Kremlin with President Vladimir Putin, who has been invited by Kim Jong Un to visit the reclusive nuclear-armed country.

Russia is developing its relations with North Korea in all areas, including "sensitive" ones, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. North Korea's foreign minister lauded comradely ties with Russia on Tuesday and then held rare talks in the Kremlin with President Vladimir Putin, who has been invited by Kim Jong Un to visit the reclusive nuclear-armed country. WATCH | Russia, North Korea leaders meet in Moscow, Putin set to visit North Korea Asked about the talks in Moscow, Peskov said the situation on the Korean peninsula was discussed, but that the main focus was on developing bilateral relations. "The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is our very important partner, and we are focussed on the further development of our relations in all areas, including in sensitive areas," Peskov told reporters. ALSO READ | US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks Putin has deepened ties with North Korea since sending troops into Ukraine in 2022, and the United States and its allies have condemned what they say have been significant North Korean missile deliveries to Russia to help its war effort. Both Russia and North Korea have repeatedly dismissed the criticism. Moscow says it will develop ties with whatever countries it wants and that its cooperation with Pyongyang does not contravene international agreements. ALSO READ | After Kim-Putin meet, train traffic between North Korea and Russia spikes Russia has gone out of its way to publicise the renaissance of its relationship, including military ties, with North Korea, which was formed in 1948 with the backing of the then-Soviet Union. For Putin, who says Russia is locked in an existential battle with the West over Ukraine, courting Kim allows him to needle Washington and its Asian allies while securing a deep supply of artillery for the Ukraine war.

Russia is developing ties with N. Korea in all areas, including ‘sensitive’ ones: Kremlin

Pakistan slams Iranian strikes, recalls ambassador from Iran | Breaking News

Belarus is working on a new nuclear doctrine which will be used for the nuclear weapons. The Defence Minister of Belarus said that Russian aly will put forth a new doctrine soon.

Russia stations nuclear weapons in Belarusian territory

The Houthis of Yemen launched a "direct hit" on the Zografia ship with the use of naval missiles, according to Yahya Sarea, a spokesman for the group's military. One of the Greek sources stated that the Zografia had 24 crew members on board and was travelling from Vietnam to Israel when it was attacked. The ship was devoid of cargo.

Italy, France & Spain refuse role in strikes in Yemen

A Kenyan judge on Wednesday ordered cult leader Paul Mackenzie and 30 associates to undergo mental health evaluations before being charged with the murder of 191 children whose bodies have been exhumed since April 2023 from the Shakahola forest in Kenya.

Authorities say Mackenzie, the head of the Good News International Church, ordered his followers in southeastern Kenya to starve themselves and their children to death so that they could go to heaven before the world ended.

More than 400 bodies were uncovered over the course of months of exhumations across tens of thousands of acres of forest, making this one of the world's worst cult-related tragedies in recent history.

Prosecutors say they will charge 95 people in total on counts of murder, manslaughter, terrorism and torture.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The Kenya Christian cult deaths

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-kenya-christian-cult-deaths-586147/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

A lawyer for Mackenzie, who has been in custody since police started unearthing bodies in the forest, has said the self-styled pastor is cooperating with the investigation.

During a hearing in the coastal town of Malindi, a judge granted a prosecution request to conduct mental health assessments of the 31 defendants before they are formally charged and enter pleas in two weeks.

Mackenzie, dressed in a white-and-blue-striped polo shirt, sat largely expressionless alongside his fellow defendants in the courtroom.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-kenya-religious-starvation-cult-and-the-grisly-discovery-of-mass-graves-586045">Explained: All about the macabre Kenya starvation death cult, whose founder led 90 to mass graves</a>

Prosecutors have attributed delays in bringing charges to the gruelling and delicate task of locating, exhuming and autopsying so many human remains. Some of Mackenzie's other followers were rescued, emaciated, from the forest.

People with knowledge of the cult's activities told Reuters last year that Mackenzie planned the mass starvation in three phases: first children, then women and young men, and finally the remaining men.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenyan-starvation-cult-death-toll-surpasses-400-after-authorities-find-12-more-bodies-616752">Kenyan starvation cult death toll surpasses 400 after authorities find 12 more bodies</a>

A former taxi driver, Mackenzie forbade cult members from sending their children to school and from going to hospital when they were ill, branding such institutions as Satanic, some of his followers said.

He was convicted in December of producing and distributing films without a license and sentenced to 12 months in jail.

A Kenyan judge on Wednesday ordered cult leader Paul Mackenzie and 30 associates to undergo mental health evaluations before being charged with the murder of 191 children whose bodies have been exhumed since April 2023 from the Shakahola forest in Kenya.

A Kenyan judge on Wednesday ordered cult leader Paul Mackenzie and 30 associates to undergo mental health evaluations before being charged with the murder of 191 children whose bodies have been exhumed since April 2023 from the Shakahola forest in Kenya. Authorities say Mackenzie, the head of the Good News International Church, ordered his followers in southeastern Kenya to starve themselves and their children to death so that they could go to heaven before the world ended. More than 400 bodies were uncovered over the course of months of exhumations across tens of thousands of acres of forest, making this one of the world's worst cult-related tragedies in recent history. Prosecutors say they will charge 95 people in total on counts of murder, manslaughter, terrorism and torture. WATCH | Gravitas: The Kenya Christian cult deaths A lawyer for Mackenzie, who has been in custody since police started unearthing bodies in the forest, has said the self-styled pastor is cooperating with the investigation. During a hearing in the coastal town of Malindi, a judge granted a prosecution request to conduct mental health assessments of the 31 defendants before they are formally charged and enter pleas in two weeks. Mackenzie, dressed in a white-and-blue-striped polo shirt, sat largely expressionless alongside his fellow defendants in the courtroom. ALSO READ | Explained: All about the macabre Kenya starvation death cult, whose founder led 90 to mass graves Prosecutors have attributed delays in bringing charges to the gruelling and delicate task of locating, exhuming and autopsying so many human remains. Some of Mackenzie's other followers were rescued, emaciated, from the forest. People with knowledge of the cult's activities told Reuters last year that Mackenzie planned the mass starvation in three phases: first children, then women and young men, and finally the remaining men. ALSO READ | Kenyan starvation cult death toll surpasses 400 after authorities find 12 more bodies A former taxi driver, Mackenzie forbade cult members from sending their children to school and from going to hospital when they were ill, branding such institutions as Satanic, some of his followers said. He was convicted in December of producing and distributing films without a license and sentenced to 12 months in jail.

Kenyan cult leader to face murder charges in starvation deaths

New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant&nbsp;snowfall after a staggering 700 days. The event marked the conclusion of an exceptional period characterised by the absence of substantial snow, with Central Park reporting a layer of snow that broke the previous record set in 1998.

<h2>Breaking the 400-day record</h2>

The snowless span began after Central Park recorded 1.6 inches of snow on February 13, 2022. The New York Times reported that the record-breaking 400-day streak without considerable snowfall was officially shattered.

The National Weather Service confirmed an inch of snowfall at Central Park since midnight on January 16, with a total of 1.4 inches since the storm's onset on Monday (Jan 15).

This long-awaited snowfall brought relief to residents and added a picturesque layer to the iconic landscapes of the city.

While New York City experienced a prolonged absence of notable snow, other areas in the state, such as Buffalo, faced more severe snow conditions. The discrepancy highlights the diverse and evolving nature of weather patterns, influenced in part by the ongoing effects of climate change.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-water-bodies-drying-up-due-to-long-dry-spell-authorities-worried-680229">Also read |&nbsp;Kashmir water bodies drying up due to long dry spell, authorities worried</a>

Residents across various parts of the city, including Brooklyn, found themselves engaged in the task of clearing sidewalks following the snowfall over the long weekend.

The event also led to minor disruptions in public transport and prompted school closures in the northern suburbs, underscoring the practical implications of the city's return to snowy conditions.

Also watch |&nbsp;Climate change: 2023 smashes records for surface temperature and ocean heat

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-2023-smashes-records-for-surface-temperature-and-ocean-heat-680049/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Unusual snow patterns extend globally</h2>

Beyond New York City, unusual snow patterns have been observed globally. In India, regions accustomed to heavy snowfall during the winter season, such as Kashmir, Ladakh, Manali, and Shimla, have experienced an unexpected lack of snow during "Chilla-i-Kalan" the traditional intense cold period.

Weather forecasts predict dry conditions until January 21, leaving residents and weather experts alike puzzled by the deviation from the usual snowy conditions during Christmas and New Year's Eve.

(With inputs from agencies)

New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant snowfall after a staggering 700 days. The event marked the conclusion of an exceptional period characterised by the absence of substantial snow, with Central Park reporting a layer of snow that broke the previous record set in 1998.

New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant snowfall after a staggering 700 days. The event marked the conclusion of an exceptional period characterised by the absence of substantial snow, with Central Park reporting a layer of snow that broke the previous record set in 1998. Breaking the 400-day record The snowless span began after Central Park recorded 1.6 inches of snow on February 13, 2022. The New York Times reported that the record-breaking 400-day streak without considerable snowfall was officially shattered. The National Weather Service confirmed an inch of snowfall at Central Park since midnight on January 16, with a total of 1.4 inches since the storm's onset on Monday (Jan 15). This long-awaited snowfall brought relief to residents and added a picturesque layer to the iconic landscapes of the city. While New York City experienced a prolonged absence of notable snow, other areas in the state, such as Buffalo, faced more severe snow conditions. The discrepancy highlights the diverse and evolving nature of weather patterns, influenced in part by the ongoing effects of climate change. Also read | Kashmir water bodies drying up due to long dry spell, authorities worried Residents across various parts of the city, including Brooklyn, found themselves engaged in the task of clearing sidewalks following the snowfall over the long weekend. The event also led to minor disruptions in public transport and prompted school closures in the northern suburbs, underscoring the practical implications of the city's return to snowy conditions. Also watch | Climate change: 2023 smashes records for surface temperature and ocean heat Unusual snow patterns extend globally Beyond New York City, unusual snow patterns have been observed globally. In India, regions accustomed to heavy snowfall during the winter season, such as Kashmir, Ladakh, Manali, and Shimla, have experienced an unexpected lack of snow during "Chilla-i-Kalan" the traditional intense cold period. Weather forecasts predict dry conditions until January 21, leaving residents and weather experts alike puzzled by the deviation from the usual snowy conditions during Christmas and New Year's Eve. (With inputs from agencies)

New York gets first major snowfall in 2 years, while Shimla, Kashmir, Manali experience dry spell

In a shocking incident in the US state of Ohio, a 17-month-old toddler was admitted to the ICU after sustaining burns during a police raid where officers deployed flash-bang devices. The mayor of the city of Elyria has since ordered an investigation into the incident after a woman alleged that police officers who raided her home had the wrong address.&nbsp;

<h2>‘It’s the wrong house’</h2>

The police and the resident have given conflicting accounts of what happened on January 10, during the raid on a residence in the 300 block of Parmely Avenue.&nbsp;

In a statement, on Friday (Jan 12) the Ohio police said that they executed a search warrant at the correct address as part of a criminal investigation and the child did not “sustain any apparent, visible injuries.”

However, the toddler’s mother Courtney Price told NBC News that audio from her security camera says otherwise. In the audio shared with the media, on Tuesday (Jan 16) someone can be heard saying, “It’s the wrong house.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-vivek-roasts-fellow-indian-american-nikki-haley-as-trump-smiles-on-from-behind-680801">Vivek roasts fellow Indian-American Nikki Haley as Trump smiles on from behind</a>

It was not immediately clear who made the remark as the police deployed flashbangs also known as stun grenades – a device that produces a bright flash and a loud noise to stun or disorient people without causing serious injury.

The police broke a window and deployed the device near her 17-month-old son Waylon who was already on a ventilator. “All I seen was lights flashing and smoke coming into the house,” she told CBS News.&nbsp;

“I didn’t know what to do because there was guns pointed at me. I wanted to run to him, but I knew if I ran to him...they could’ve shot,” Price added. According to media reports, Courtney and her son were the only ones home at the time of the raid.&nbsp;

“I kept screaming, ‘My baby, my baby is on a ventilator. My baby’s in here’,” Price said.&nbsp;

Speaking to the local media, Reida Jennings, who rented the house to the Price family said the mother and her son were staying with her as Waylon waited for his surgery for a heart defect.

“The baby is now in the ICU. He’s got burns all over him, inside of his lungs are burned,” Jennings told WJW.&nbsp;

She said that the Ring camera footage showed that the flashbang hit Waylon and alleged that the police let the toddler “lay there for about 35 to 45 minutes in the smoke.”&nbsp;

<h2>‘Serious and disturbing’</h2>

Elyria Mayor Kevin Brubaker called the incident “serious and disturbing.” He added, “The allegations against our police department are extreme and deeply concerning…I have ordered a complete review of the incident and requested all information be released to the public as soon as possible.”

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-not-panic-indian-airlines-slipped-this-note-to-passenger-stuck-in-loo-for-entire-trip-680766">&nbsp;'Do not panic': Indian airlines slipped THIS note to passenger stuck in loo for entire trip</a>

The mayor’s office released over two hours of footage from the body cams worn by eight officers, on Tuesday (Jan 16).&nbsp;

Price told WOIO that Waylon had been diagnosed with chemical pneumonitis after the raid which she said was caused due to the chemicals released by the flash-bangs.

The Elyria Police Department has since denied the allegations. “Any allegation suggesting the child was exposed to chemical agents, lack of medical attention or negligence is not true,” said the police in a statement.&nbsp;

Jennings told WOIO that the family plans to take legal action against the police department.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a shocking incident in the US state of Ohio, a 17-month-old toddler was admitted to the ICU after sustaining burns during a police raid where officers deployed flash-bang devices.

In a shocking incident in the US state of Ohio, a 17-month-old toddler was admitted to the ICU after sustaining burns during a police raid where officers deployed flash-bang devices. The mayor of the city of Elyria has since ordered an investigation into the incident after a woman alleged that police officers who raided her home had the wrong address. ‘It’s the wrong house’ The police and the resident have given conflicting accounts of what happened on January 10, during the raid on a residence in the 300 block of Parmely Avenue. In a statement, on Friday (Jan 12) the Ohio police said that they executed a search warrant at the correct address as part of a criminal investigation and the child did not “sustain any apparent, visible injuries.” However, the toddler’s mother Courtney Price told NBC News that audio from her security camera says otherwise. In the audio shared with the media, on Tuesday (Jan 16) someone can be heard saying, “It’s the wrong house.” ALSO READ | Vivek roasts fellow Indian-American Nikki Haley as Trump smiles on from behind It was not immediately clear who made the remark as the police deployed flashbangs also known as stun grenades – a device that produces a bright flash and a loud noise to stun or disorient people without causing serious injury. The police broke a window and deployed the device near her 17-month-old son Waylon who was already on a ventilator. “All I seen was lights flashing and smoke coming into the house,” she told CBS News. “I didn’t know what to do because there was guns pointed at me. I wanted to run to him, but I knew if I ran to him...they could’ve shot,” Price added. According to media reports, Courtney and her son were the only ones home at the time of the raid. “I kept screaming, ‘My baby, my baby is on a ventilator. My baby’s in here’,” Price said. Speaking to the local media, Reida Jennings, who rented the house to the Price family said the mother and her son were staying with her as Waylon waited for his surgery for a heart defect. “The baby is now in the ICU. He’s got burns all over him, inside of his lungs are burned,” Jennings told WJW. She said that the Ring camera footage showed that the flashbang hit Waylon and alleged that the police let the toddler “lay there for about 35 to 45 minutes in the smoke.” ‘Serious and disturbing’ Elyria Mayor Kevin Brubaker called the incident “serious and disturbing.” He added, “The allegations against our police department are extreme and deeply concerning…I have ordered a complete review of the incident and requested all information be released to the public as soon as possible.” ALSO READ | 'Do not panic': Indian airlines slipped THIS note to passenger stuck in loo for entire trip The mayor’s office released over two hours of footage from the body cams worn by eight officers, on Tuesday (Jan 16). Price told WOIO that Waylon had been diagnosed with chemical pneumonitis after the raid which she said was caused due to the chemicals released by the flash-bangs. The Elyria Police Department has since denied the allegations. “Any allegation suggesting the child was exposed to chemical agents, lack of medical attention or negligence is not true,” said the police in a statement. Jennings told WOIO that the family plans to take legal action against the police department. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s the wrong house’: Police raid in Ohio house sends 17-month-old to ICU; mayor calls for investigation

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is impossible for his administration to "abandon the territorial gains" made during nearly two years since February 2022. Putin on Tuesday warned that Ukraine's statehood could suffer an "irreparable and very serious blow" if the war continues and that peace with Kyiv could not be achieved because the then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played a spoilsport.&nbsp;

Putin made the remarks during a televised meeting with the heads of Russian municipalities. The Russian president who is seeking re-election during presidential elections in March, claimed that the country's forces were winning the war in Ukraine.

Putin's comments came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky virtually told the World Economic Forum in Davos that he was against a ceasefire in the war at this time, and called for a decisive win for his country to conclusively end the conflict.

<h2>Ukraine's counteroffensive has 'failed': Vladimir Putin</h2>

Putin said that Ukraine's much-watched and equally anticipated counteroffensive launched in June had "failed," and that "the initiative is in the hands of the Russian Armed Forces."

"If this continues, Ukraine's statehood may face an irreparable and very serious blow," Putin added.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Russia, Ukraine, to West Asia Crisis: Is this the beginning of World War III?

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"The so-called 'peace formula' that's being talked about in the West and in Ukraine is a continuation of the decree of the Ukrainian president banning negotiations with Russia," Putin said, as per Sputnik. "As for the negotiating process, it's an attempt to encourage us to abandon the territorial gains we've achieved over the past 1 1/2 years. But this is impossible. Everyone understands that this is impossible."

<h2>Putin's big claim on peace deal with Ukraine</h2>

Putin repeated the claim that Ukraine signed a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022, then threw it into the 'garbage of history'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673">Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'</a>

Referring to the purported deal made in Turkey early on during the war, Putin said: "A day later, they threw all the agreements into the trash, and now they are saying publicly—including the head of the Ukrainian negotiating group—that 'Yes, we were ready, but we missed the chance because then-Prime Minister of Britain [Boris] Johnson came and persuaded us not to implement these agreements.'"

He continued: "Fools, are they not? They're admitting directly that if they had gone for it, everything could have been ended a long time ago, one and a half&nbsp;years ago."

Putin also denounced Kyiv for what he claimed were intentional hits on civilian infrastructure, a claim that Ukraine has made against his forces after Russian assaults.

"But instead of solving military tasks, they are acting in this barbaric way, striking peaceful settlements using indiscriminate weapons. Multiple launch rocket systems are simply used to hit wide areas," Putin said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is impossible for his administration to "abandon the territorial gains" made during nearly two years since February 2022.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is impossible for his administration to "abandon the territorial gains" made during nearly two years since February 2022. Putin on Tuesday warned that Ukraine's statehood could suffer an "irreparable and very serious blow" if the war continues and that peace with Kyiv could not be achieved because the then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played a spoilsport. Putin made the remarks during a televised meeting with the heads of Russian municipalities. The Russian president who is seeking re-election during presidential elections in March, claimed that the country's forces were winning the war in Ukraine. Putin's comments came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky virtually told the World Economic Forum in Davos that he was against a ceasefire in the war at this time, and called for a decisive win for his country to conclusively end the conflict. Ukraine's counteroffensive has 'failed': Vladimir Putin Putin said that Ukraine's much-watched and equally anticipated counteroffensive launched in June had "failed," and that "the initiative is in the hands of the Russian Armed Forces." "If this continues, Ukraine's statehood may face an irreparable and very serious blow," Putin added. Also watch | Gravitas | Russia, Ukraine, to West Asia Crisis: Is this the beginning of World War III? × "The so-called 'peace formula' that's being talked about in the West and in Ukraine is a continuation of the decree of the Ukrainian president banning negotiations with Russia," Putin said, as per Sputnik. "As for the negotiating process, it's an attempt to encourage us to abandon the territorial gains we've achieved over the past 1 1/2 years. But this is impossible. Everyone understands that this is impossible." Putin's big claim on peace deal with Ukraine Putin repeated the claim that Ukraine signed a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022, then threw it into the 'garbage of history'. Also read | Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history' Referring to the purported deal made in Turkey early on during the war, Putin said: "A day later, they threw all the agreements into the trash, and now they are saying publicly—including the head of the Ukrainian negotiating group—that 'Yes, we were ready, but we missed the chance because then-Prime Minister of Britain [Boris] Johnson came and persuaded us not to implement these agreements.'" He continued: "Fools, are they not? They're admitting directly that if they had gone for it, everything could have been ended a long time ago, one and a half years ago." Putin also denounced Kyiv for what he claimed were intentional hits on civilian infrastructure, a claim that Ukraine has made against his forces after Russian assaults. "But instead of solving military tasks, they are acting in this barbaric way, striking peaceful settlements using indiscriminate weapons. Multiple launch rocket systems are simply used to hit wide areas," Putin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine

A troubling report has emerged highlighting the surge of child abuse online more than 90% of websites have been found to feature images exalted from victims as young as three. According to UK-based internet watch foundation's 2023 report over 90% of these illegal websites showcased self-generated images.

Reports find 90% of child sexual abuse content to be self-created

After facing 5 years of intense deforestation in Brazil's Amazon forest what comes as good news is that the rate of deforestation in the Amazon fell by nearly 50% in 2023. According to Brazil's Environment Ministry this was the lowest deforestation rate they had recorded in the past decades.

Brazil wants to achieve zero deforestation

Rishi Sunak faces revolt over Rwanda policy. Two conservative Deputy Chairmen & Ministerial aide resign. Senior Tory members quit over Rwanda Bill. Watch to know more!

UK: Rishi Sunak faces revolt over Rwanda Policy, senior Tory members quit

Drones and missiles were used by Iran on Wednesday to attack Pakistan, claiming to target two bases used by the terrorist organization Jaish al-Adl. This came a day after the elite Revolutionary Guards carried out similar operations against Syria and Iraq. Pakistan denounced Iran's "unprovoked violation of its airspace" and threatened "consequences" in a sharply worded statement. Pakistan has reported that three children have been injured and two children have died as a result of the attack by Iran.

Iran strikes 'militant bases' inside Pakistan, latter warns of 'serious consequences' | WION

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